Knoxville Tennessee is a vital port, university city, cultural and historical destination. Knoxville is only second oldest to the city of Nashville so historical Knoxville attractions reign. Early active quarries in the urban area lent the name "Marble City" to Knoxville. Several important buildings were built with the pinkish hued limestone like the National Gallery in Washington. There are many fun and interesting things to do in Knoxville Tennessee perfect for a fulfilling vacation or weekend retreat.

Historic Tour

Due to its prominence as one of the oldest cities in Tennessee, a historical tour of Knoxville is in order during a visit. Take a tour of James White Fort, Old Gray Cemetery, Mabry Hazen House and Armstrong - Lockett House. If you feel ambitious keep up your history tour with visits to Blount Mansion, Confederate Memorial Hall (Bleak House) and Ramsey House Plantation to soak up a wealth of area history.

Haley Heritage Square

The Haley Heritage Square deserves a mention on its own even though it's a historical landmark. The memorial is dedicated to the phenomenal writer Alex Haley, author of the award winning book Roots. The statue is interactive and also offers a rare background for holiday photos.

World's Fair Park

When Knoxville was the host to the 1982 World Fair, visiting the fair area became one of the major things to do in Knoxville. Nearly two decades later it remained a major attraction and the city decided to keep it. Things to do in Knoxville Tennessee at the fair grounds include visiting the Candy Factory, arts and crafts shops housed in old Victorian estates, and the Fort Kid playground. The first-rate Knoxville Museum of Art is also located on the grounds.

Museums and Galleries

Unbeknownst to most Knoxville has a huge array of museums and galleries to visit and explore. History, culture, science and art are showcased in fine facilities including the Art Gallery of Knoxville, East Tennessee Discovery Center, Ewing Gallery, Frank H. McClung Museum, Knoxville Museum of Art and many, many more. Most Knoxville hotels carry a variety of pamphlets for more information about leading galleries and museums in the city.

Knoxville Zoo

Elephants, giraffes, primates, reptiles, birds and more can all be seen at the Knoxville Zoo. Things to do in Knoxville at the zoo include attending special events like Feasts with the Beasts, Zoofari and Zoospy! The many educational programs teach kids and adults about how the zoo is run, what the animals eat and many interesting anecdotes. Don't miss the vibrant and fascinating Knoxville Zoological Gardens while visiting.

Women's Basketball Hall of Fame

When you're looking for things to do in Knoxville take a trip the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame. Inside, Knoxville attractions include a thirty-foot giant basketball weighing more then ten tons! It sits atop a glass staircase built to echo the image of a basketball net. There are interactive exhibits tracing the history of basketball. Memorabilia are found throughout the 32,000 square foot facility including rule books, uniforms, awards and trophies.

Festivals and Events

The full and exciting calender of events on the cities' roster creates a whole other realm of things to do in Knoxville Tennessee! A few of the fun things to do include Bearden Village Festival of Art and Dogwood Arts Festival in April, Shakespeare on the Square in July, Tennessee Valley Fair in September, Brewer's Jam and Head of the Tennessee Regatta in October and Springfest. Those are just a few of the festivals happening that are perfect for a visit during a Tennessee vacation.

Old City

Old City is one of the most interesting Knoxville attractions complete with its very own ambience. During the day shopping is great and you can grab lunch at a cafE or diner between exploring. Old City is a revitalized warehouse district listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In the evening the area follows a different tune as clubs and bars open up and play host to those looking for great city nightlife.

Market Square

Market Square is another of the Knoxville attractions perfect for shopping. There are many eclectic and funky stores along with more traditional shops and eateries. More then ten galleries and museums can be found at Marketplace along with tons of entertainment and lodging choices.

Star of Knoxville Riverboat

The Star of Knoxville, and authentic sternwheeler 325-passenger riverboat, will take you and your family on a languid river cruise. Choose between a variety of different tours including sightseeing, entertainment, moonlight cruise and lunch or dinner cruises.