15 Fun Family Friendly Things to Do in Knoxville with Kids
Prepare to be mesmerized by the incredible views and places to be in Knoxville, also known as KnoxVegas.
For the ultimate family vacation, one city offers time capsules in the shape of museums that will transport you to various historical eras, gorgeous landscapes and parks, and an abundance of entertaining and engaging activities.
Concerned about skipping out on the best travel opportunities? Are you eager but unsure about where to begin?
We have your back.
We have prepared a list of the most enjoyable activities to do in Knoxville with kids to assist you in organizing the finest family vacation.
Look them up!
- Market Square — Downtown Knoxville
The Market Square was first created around 1854 as a marketplace for local farmers and is home to Knoxville’s top boutiques and eateries.
Why We Recommend This Activity
The Market Square is unquestionably one of the top things to do in Knoxville with kids as you stroll through the lovely walkways with exquisite examples of modern and conventional architecture.
If you want to see the magnificent festivals the city celebrates, Market Place is the place to be.
All year round, take part in exciting activities with the locals.
There is always something cooking in the center of this spot, whether it is winter, summer, fall, or spring.
Recommended Ages
Children of all ages may have fun, laugh, and make memories at Market Square.
- Ijams Nature Center — South Knoxville
In Knoxville, are you looking for fun and calming family activities?
Your pass to tranquility is the Ijams Nature Center.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Take in the splendor of nature as you trek around the 10 miles of trails in this Knoxville nature park.
You may engage in various sports here, such as canoeing, biking, and rock climbing. While doing so, you’ll have a chance to witness animals in the wild while admiring the stunning coastline and unusual rock formations.
Recommended Ages
Children ages five and above should take this tranquil excursion to the Ijams Nature Center, which we highly suggest.
- Tennessee Theatre — Downtown Knoxville
Children ages five and above should take this tranquil excursion to the Ijams Nature Center, which we highly suggest.
Why We Recommend This Activity
With its stunning interior design and fascinating history, the Tennessee Theater is one of the best places in Knoxville to bring children.
Make sure to schedule a performance to experience the region’s top performing arts venue, which is outfitted with cutting-edge technology, incredible staging, and eye-catching lighting to provide you with great performances that will be the highlight of your vacation.
Recommended Ages
Families aged three and up are encouraged to visit the Tennessee Theater.
- Knoxville Museum of Art — Downtown Knoxville
The Knoxville Museum of Art, which opened its doors in 1961 under the name Dulin Gallery of Art, is a must-visit for families looking for free family activities in Knoxville.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Discover the various artworks and exhibits housed within this museum as you discover Knoxville’s artistic heritage and culture.
Along with the intriguing artworks, the museum also has a sizable outdoor area surrounded by well-kept grass lawns and trees, making a lovely setting for a picnic following your tour of the inside.
Recommended Ages
According to us, kids ages three and above should visit the Knoxville Museum.
- Zoo Knoxville — East Knoxville
The 53-acre Zoo Knoxville is home to a variety of kid-friendly attractions that are sure to keep them occupied all day.
Why We Recommend This Activity
You can get close or even personal with the various gorgeous critters that this zoo has to offer. It is home to over 800 animals.
The zoo is filled with various interactive exhibits and ecosystems, rides, and zip lines that will enhance your visit.
Recommended Ages
Families with children three and older are strongly encouraged to visit the Zoo Knoxville.
- World’s Fair Park — Downtown Knoxville
Families can relax in the safety of a green area flanked by amusing fountains, lakes, trees, and other infrastructure at the World’s Fair Park.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Explore this park on a leisurely afternoon stroll to take in all the monuments, vistas, and stunning man-made and natural landscapes.
Here, surrounded by lush, shimmering trees that will join you on a lazy day in the park, you’ll be able to breathe in cool, pure air in the city’s center.
Recommended Ages
Families with children ages three and up should consider visiting the World’s, Fair Park.
- East Tennessee Historical Society and Museum — Downtown Knoxville
The East Tennessee Historical Society and Museum, directly across the street from the Tennessee Theatre and close to several other historical landmarks, is a time capsule with a wealth of intriguing items for the whole family.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Through a wealth of engaging exhibitions, intriguing artifacts, and real historical artifacts, you may learn everything there is to know about Eastern Tennessee.
If you’re searching for inexpensive family entertainment, you can never go wrong with taking the entire tribe on a trip to this museum for the ultimate flashback.
Recommended Ages
Families with children ages three and above are advised to visit the East Tennessee Historical Society and Museum.
- University of Tennessee
The University of Tennessee was established in 1794, two years before Tennessee even became the 16th state. It offers a variety of places filled with stunning architectural features, gardens, and a rich history of the area.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Make your trip to Knoxville even more distinctive by taking an incredible tour of the renowned University of Tennessee campus.
You might choose to hire a tour guide to take you around the campus and point out all the green areas, lovely scenery, and quiet nooks.
Recommended Ages
Tribes with children of various ages are welcome at the University of Tennessee.
- Neyland Stadium — University of Tennessee
The Neyland Stadium, the primary residence of the Tennessee Volunteers football team, will give you a glimpse of the competitive nature of Knoxville residents.
Why We Recommend This Activity
The Neyland Stadium, a sizable space that acts as a site for the greatest events and even concerts hosted in the city, is located just inside the grounds of the University of Tennessee.
We highly suggest taking in a thrilling football game for a memorable experience if you ever get the chance.
Recommended Ages
Families with children ages three and up should consider visiting the Neyland Stadium.
- Sunsphere Tower — World’s Fair Park
Are you still looking for family-friendly activities in Knoxville?
You might be an excellent fit for the Sunsphere Tower!
Why We Recommend This Activity
This amazing hexagonal steel truss structure, which stands 266 feet tall and supports a 75-foot golden glass sphere, attracts attention from residents and visitors.
After admiring the stunning interior decor and architecture, you can satisfy your hunger at one of the many eateries inside the tower.
Recommended Ages
The Sunsphere Tower is a great place for kids ages three and up to go.
- Muse Knoxville — East Knoxville
The Muse Knoxville is the greatest option if you’re seeking activities in Knoxville to do this weekend with young children.
Why We Recommend This Activity
The Muse Knoxville is a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) museum for kids whose mission is to give kids fantastic recreational experiences.
The interactive exhibits, amazing facilities, and full-dome planetarium, packed with a range of kid-friendly activities, will give the little ones a fun perspective on science and technology.
Recommended Ages
The Muse Knoxville is a great place for children ages 3 to 10.
- French Memorial Park — South Knoxville
Are you traveling with a young child and trying to find a pleasant, quiet area?
You can relax at the French Memorial Park.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Two soccer fields inside the park offer a sizable play space where kids and dogs can run around.
There are many entertaining activities on the playground, a gym near the library, and a walking path that circles the park, which is ideal for relaxing and strolling.
Recommended Ages
Children of all ages are welcome at the French Memorial Park, which is open.
- Seven Islands State Birding Park — East Knoxville
Looking for original family activities to add a creative twist to your family vacation?
You need that additional kick, and you’ll find it in the Seven Islands State Birding Park.
Why We Recommend This Activity
This park, which covers 425 acres, is a bird refuge and will provide you with the best possible opportunity to observe them.
Enjoy the soothing sounds of the birds filling the crisp, cool air while surrounded by breathtaking scenery, sunflower gardens, and meadows.
Recommended Ages
Children of all ages should visit the Seven Islands State Birding Park, which we advise.
- The Cutting Edge Classroom — Farragut
We have the ideal combination of teen-friendly, interesting, and participatory activities if you’re seeking one.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Get your creative juices flowing as you enter the Cutting Edge Classroom, which is a sensory overload of flavors, aromas, and substances.
Make pastries, pizza, appetizers, and other delicious foods with the kids while receiving instruction from top-notch chefs who will share their insider knowledge on how to improve your cooking in the future.
Recommended Ages
The Cutting Edge Classroom is advised for older children ages eight and older.
- Knoxville Botanical Garden & Arboretum — East Knoxville
The Knoxville Botanical Garden & Arboretum is a 47-acre park featuring gardens, trees, lawns, walking trails, old walls, and some stone buildings that is a secure and well-kept retreat for the family to enjoy.
Why We Recommend This Activity
Experience with the entire family the peace and tranquility of strolling through the diverse, exquisite flowers, plants, and landscapes of the Knoxville Botanical Garden & Arboretum.
By visiting these gardens, you can learn all there is to know about Knoxville’s biodiversity, including the various plants and species that exist there.
Recommended Ages
One of the best things to do with kids in Knoxville is a cool trip to the Knoxville Botanical Garden & Arboretum, which is accessible to kids of all ages.
