What to do in Knoxville, TN

Activities, attractions and tours

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Things to do

Knoxville River Cruise Aboard the Volunteer Princess

Knoxville River Cruise Aboard the Volunteer Princess

฿1,169
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Knoxville River Cruise Aboard the Volunteer Princess
Astounding Scavenger Hunt: Knoxville's Perfect Blend

Astounding Scavenger Hunt: Knoxville's Perfect Blend

฿411
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Astounding Scavenger Hunt: Knoxville's Perfect Blend
Awesome Bar Hunt: Swell Times in Scruffy City

Awesome Bar Hunt: Swell Times in Scruffy City

฿411
per adult
Awesome Bar Hunt: Swell Times in Scruffy City
Get ready for take-off!

Helicopter Ride Over Sevierville and Countryside

฿1,806
per adult
Helicopter Ride Over Sevierville and Countryside
The Ultimate Jet Boat Adventure in Smoky Mountains

The Ultimate Jet Boat Adventure in Smoky Mountains

฿7,178
per adult
The Ultimate Jet Boat Adventure in Smoky Mountains
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What to do in Knoxville

Stay near popular Knoxville attractions

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Photo by Jason Batchelor
Open Photo by Jason Batchelor

University of Tennessee

9.0/10 (2,704 reviews)
This historic flagship campus features landmarks like Neyland Stadium and the Torchbearer statue. Explore UTK's riverside grounds through guided morning tours showcasing heritage architecture and student life.
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Where to stay in Knoxville

Find the best Knoxville areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Knoxville
Learn more about Knoxville
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Downtown Knoxville

Downtown Knoxville is popular for its lively bars, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Bijou Theater or Tennessee Theatre.

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Old City

Old City is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Historic Southern Railway Station and The Emporium Center while you're in town.

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Fort Sanders

Unique features of Fort Sanders include the shopping and bars. Make a stop by Neyland Stadium or Thompson–Boling Arena while you're exploring the area.

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Bearden

While visiting Bearden, you might make a stop by sights like Bearden Antique Mall and West Town Mall.

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Southside Waterfront

While Southside Waterfront isn't home to many top sights, Thompson–Boling Arena and Neyland Stadium are some notable places to visit nearby.

Day trip destinations from Knoxville

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Powell

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Sevierville

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Lenoir City

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Kodak

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Corryton

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Seymour

Frequently asked questions

Is Knoxville worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Knoxville is explore Knoxville Zoo. Check this major sight off your to-do list, then experience more of this area's nature and history.
How do I spend a day in Knoxville?
When you've checked off leading attractions like Knoxville Zoo and Historic Southern Railway Station, spend the rest of your day experiencing the retail and food options in Knoxville.
What is the top tourist attraction in Knoxville?
Knoxville Zoo is one of the top tourist attractions in Knoxville and should feature high on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Knoxville?
You can easily visit popular attractions like Knoxville Zoo, Tennessee Theatre and Bijou Theatre with a three-day break in Knoxville. On average, many travellers book two days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so linger longer and venture to Pigeon Forge.
Is Knoxville a walkable city?
It all comes down to what you plan to do and see in Knoxville. Several key attractions, such as Knoxville Zoo and Tennessee Theatre, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Knoxville's neighbourhoods, East Knoxville is 5 kilometres away from downtown, while Fort Sanders is 2 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Knoxville with kids?
Whether you're travelling with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Knoxville with kids.
What to do in Knoxville for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or fan of Mother Nature, there's no shortage of things to do in Knoxville for adults including Thompson–Boling Arena and East Tennessee Veterans Memorial.
Are there free things to do in Knoxville?
In Knoxville, Knoxville Museum of Art is an unmissable spot for anyone planning to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, stroll around the parks and other neighbourhoods, and ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. It's a simple way to learn about the best free things to do in Knoxville.