13 Fun-Filled Activities For Kids To Experience In Knoxville

Nestled in the heart of Tennessee, Knoxville is a city that's just as vibrant as it is historical. The birthplace of Davy Crockett and home to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville offers visitors a host of fun-filled activities. And while there's certainly something for everyone, the city is especially kid-friendly. So, whether your little ones love to explore the great outdoors, appreciate art and culture, or simply want to let loose and have some fun, Knoxville has got you covered. From birdwatching and hiking to toy store browsing and ice cream savoring, here are 13 fun-filled activities for kids to experience in Knoxville.

Visit Ijams Nature Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Ijams Nature Center
Type	Nature preserve in Knox County, Tennessee
Website	Go to website
Address	2915 Island Home Ave, Knoxville, TN 37920
Phone	(865) 577-4717
Hours	Wednesday - 10 AM–5 PM Thursday - 10 AM–5 PM Friday - 10 AM–5 PM Saturday - 9 AM–5 PM Sunday - 10 AM–5 PM Monday(Memorial Day) - 10 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–5 PM
Profiles

If you're looking for a fun and educational activity for your kids in Knoxville, look no further than the Ijams Nature Center. Nestled in the heart of the city, this expansive nature preserve offers a variety of outdoor activities for kids of all ages.

One of the main draws of the Ijams Nature Center is its extensive trail system, which takes visitors through 300 acres of woodlands, meadows, and wetlands. There are trails suitable for young children as well as more challenging hikes for older kids and adults. Along the way, you'll encounter a variety of native wildlife, including birds, turtles, and deer.

Another popular attraction at Ijams is the Nature Playscape, a unique outdoor play area that encourages kids to explore and interact with the natural world. The Playscape includes a natural climbing structure, a sand pit, and a "creek" for splashing and playing. There's even a designated area for younger children, with a playhouse and sandbox.

In addition to the trails and Playscape, Ijams offers a variety of educational programs and events for kids and families throughout the year. These include guided hikes, wildlife encounters, and hands-on workshops on topics like bird watching and nature photography.

Overall, a visit to the Ijams Nature Center is a great way to get your kids outside and engaged with the natural world right in the heart of Knoxville. Whether you're looking for a relaxing family hike, a fun outdoor play area, or an educational experience, Ijams has something for everyone.

Explore the Knoxville Zoo

Characteristic	Description
Name	Zoo Knoxville
Type	Zoo in Knoxville, Tennessee
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 10,052
Address	3500 Knoxville Zoo Dr, Knoxville, TN 37914
Phone	(865) 637-5331
Hours	Wednesday - 9 AM–5 PM Thursday - 9 AM–5 PM Friday - 9 AM–5 PM Saturday - 9 AM–5 PM Sunday - 9 AM–5 PM Monday(Memorial Day) - 9 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 9 AM–5 PM
Profiles

If you're in Knoxville with kids, one of the best places to visit is the Knoxville Zoo. This huge zoo is home to over 800 animals of all kinds, from chimpanzees and red pandas to lions and tigers. Here's what you need to know to make the most of your visit.

Getting There

The Knoxville Zoo is located just east of downtown Knoxville, off Alcoa Highway. There is ample parking on-site, both paid and free. If you're coming from downtown, you can take the Route 10 bus, which stops right at the zoo.

Exploring the Zoo

The Knoxville Zoo covers 53 acres, so you'll want to plan your visit carefully. When you enter the zoo, you'll find yourself in the Boyd Family Asian Trek, which features animals from Asia like elephants, red pandas, and tigers. Next, move through the Grasslands Africa area to see giraffes, zebras, and rhinos. Then, head to the largest section of the zoo, the Forests of the World, which hosts a huge range of animals from all over the globe. Finally, don't miss the University of Tennessee Veterinary Medicine Center, where you can observe vets treating animals and learn about their work.

Meet the Animals

One of the highlights of any zoo is getting up close and personal with the animals. The Knoxville Zoo offers plenty of opportunities to do just that. You can feed the giraffes, pet the goats in the petting zoo, and get close to reptiles in the herpetology building. There are even behind-the-scenes tours available for an extra fee, which allow you to meet keepers and animals up close.

Special Events

Throughout the year, the Knoxville Zoo hosts a range of special events for visitors of all ages. Some highlights include:

• Boo at the Zoo, a Halloween-themed event with candy, games, and animal encounters
• Baby days, when you can meet baby animals born at the zoo that year
• Sunset Safari, an adults-only event with food, drinks, and animal talks

Planning Your Visit

The Knoxville Zoo is open every day of the year except Christmas Day. Plan to spend at least a few hours at the zoo, but you could easily spend a whole day exploring the different areas. Admission prices vary based on age and day of the week, so check the website before you go. Consider bringing your own food and drinks, as there are plenty of picnic areas available on site.

Overall, the Knoxville Zoo is a must-visit for families with kids. With a huge range of animals, interactive exhibits, and special events, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Go on a hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Knoxville, Tennessee is a great place to visit with children. There are plenty of activities and attractions to keep the little ones entertained, but one activity that stands out is going on a hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

First and foremost, it's important to note that safety should be the number one priority when embarking on any hike. It's essential to check the weather before heading out and dress appropriately (layers are always a good idea). Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and be prepared for any unexpected circumstances.

Now, back to the fun stuff! The Great Smoky Mountains National Park boasts over 800 miles of hiking trails, so there's surely something for everyone. For families with young children or those in search of an easier hike, one option is the Laurel Falls Trail. This trail is about 2.6 miles round trip and takes hikers to gorgeous waterfall views. The trail is paved for the first mile and is relatively easy. However, the last half-mile is rocky and a bit steeper, so it's important to use caution.

Another child-friendly trail is the Clingmans Dome Trail. This trail is about a mile round trip and takes you to the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The trail is paved, and while it may be steep in some places, there are several benches along the way where hikers can rest. At the top, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.

For families with older children or those seeking a more challenging hike, there are plenty of options as well. The Alum Cave Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This trail is about 5.5 miles round trip and takes hikers through stunning rock formations and past a beautiful waterfall. The final destination is Alum Cave, which is actually a large arch in the rockface. This trail is relatively strenuous, so it's important to be prepared.

No matter what trail you choose, hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a great way to spend time with your kids in nature. Just remember to take all necessary safety precautions, bring plenty of supplies, and most importantly, have fun!

Take a ride on the Three Rivers Rambler train

Characteristic	Description
Name	Three Rivers Rambler
Type	Tourist attraction in Knoxville, Tennessee
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 251
Address	2560 University Commons Way, Knoxville, TN 37919
Phone	(865) 524-9411
Profiles

Knoxville has a lot to offer for kids, and one of the most exciting experiences is taking a ride on the Three Rivers Rambler train. This beautiful vintage train takes families on a scenic ride through Knoxville's countryside, offering breathtaking views of the Tennessee River, rolling hills, and greenery.

The Three Rivers Rambler train departs from downtown Knoxville and follows the tracks along the Tennessee River, passing through the Holston River and French Broad River valleys. The train runs year-round, but the best time to take a ride is during spring and fall, when the scenery is at its most vibrant.

The train ride lasts about one hour and covers a distance of 7.5 miles. The train's coaches are restored vintage cars, with comfortable seating and large windows to enjoy the view. Kids will love the experience of riding on an actual train, and adults will appreciate the nostalgia.

During the ride, the conductor provides interesting commentary about the train's history and the sights along the way. Kids can also participate in a special scavenger hunt, where they search for hidden objects along the route.

The Three Rivers Rambler train also offers special events throughout the year, including the popular Christmas Lantern Express and Easter Bunny Hop. These events feature special decorations, activities, and, of course, visits from Santa and the Easter Bunny.

Tickets for the Three Rivers Rambler train can be purchased online or at the station. Prices vary depending on the event and seating class, but generally range from $14 to $38 per person. Children under two ride for free.

If you're looking for a unique and memorable experience for your family in Knoxville, make sure to take a ride on the Three Rivers Rambler train. With stunning scenery, friendly staff, and fun activities, it's a ride that will leave kids and adults alike with lasting memories.

Have a picnic at World's Fair Park

Knoxville, Tennessee is a great destination for families with kids. With plenty of outdoor spaces and family-friendly activities, there is never a shortage of things to do. One of the top places to visit is World's Fair Park, where you can bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a relaxing afternoon with your family.

Located in downtown Knoxville, World's Fair Park is a 70-acre public park that was built for the 1982 World's Fair. The park features a large lawn area, a fountain, a performance lawn, a playground, and a splash pad, making it the perfect place to spend a day with your kids. Plus, admission to the park is completely free!

One of the best things about World's Fair Park is the picnic area. Grab a basket full of your family's favorite treats and settle in on the grassy lawn. With plenty of shade and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, it's easy to spend hours here. The park is even home to a public art installation, "The Sunsphere", which looms overhead adding to the ambiance.

While you're at the park, don't forget to check out the other attractions too. The fountains offer a great place for kids to cool off on a hot day, and the playground provides hours of fun with swings and slides. The performance lawn hosts free concerts and events throughout the summer months, adding to the park's charm and entertainment value.

Overall, World's Fair Park is a must-visit destination for families in Knoxville, Tennessee. Pack a picnic blanket and enjoy a day in one of the most beautiful parks in the city. Your kids will love the open space, and you'll love the picturesque scenery. Don't delay; plan a visit to World's Fair Park today!

Play at the Muse Knoxville children's museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	Muse Knoxville
Type	Museum in Knoxville, Tennessee
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 1,087
Address	516 N Beaman St, Knoxville, TN 37914
Phone	(865) 594-1494
Hours	Wednesday - 10 AM–4 PM Thursday - 10 AM–4 PM Friday - 10 AM–4 PM Saturday - 10 AM–4 PM Sunday - 10 AM–4 PM Monday(Memorial Day) - 10 AM–4 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–4 PM
Profiles

Knoxville is a city that has plenty of attractions for children to enjoy. One such attraction is the Muse Knoxville, a children's museum that provides an interactive and educational experience for kids of different ages. Here, kids can explore different fields of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) through various exhibits, workshops, and play activities.

Visitors to the Muse Knoxville can expect to find exhibits that promote learning and creativity. For instance, the "Fantastic Future Me" exhibit allows kids to observe their future selves, complete with career choices and physical attributes, using a futuristic machine. Another exhibit is the "Build it!" area, which enables kids to create their own constructions using tools and materials. Other interactive features include a music studio, a giant light bright, and a maze of laser beams.

The Muse Knoxville also has a designated area for toddlers known as "The Little Chickadee's Nest." This area is specially designed for children aged three and below and contains a soft play space, puzzles, and sensory activities. Besides the toddler area, the museum has other sections that cater to children up to twelve years. All exhibits aim to engage in STEAM topics, and the sessions are designed to foster cognitive, social, and emotional development.

The museum offers special events and programming throughout the year. These include summer camps, workshops, homeschool days, and outreach initiatives such as "Muse at the Farmers' Market." The day camps cover a range of topics such as coding, robotics, physics, and art. During the winter holidays, the Muse Knoxville hosts the "STEAMfest," a science and art-themed festival that features fun activities for the whole family.

In conclusion, the Muse Knoxville children's museum is a must-visit destination for children living in or visiting Knoxville city. The museum offers children an opportunity to explore their creative and curious sides while learning about STEAM subjects through interactive exhibits and workshops. With the variety of exhibits and programming available, there is something for every child to enjoy and learn at the Muse Knoxville.

Attend a Tennessee Smokies minor league baseball game

Looking for a fun activity to do with your kids in Knoxville? Consider attending a Tennessee Smokies minor league baseball game. The Tennessee Smokies are a Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs and play their home games at Smokies Stadium in Kodak, just outside of Knoxville.

Attending a Tennessee Smokies game is a great way to spend a summer evening with your family. The stadium is clean and modern, and there's a wide variety of food and drinks on offer. You can sit in the stands or reserve a table in the stadium's club area, which features a full-service bar and air conditioning.

Kids will love the entertainment options at a Tennessee Smokies game. The team runs a variety of promotions throughout the year, including fireworks shows, giveaways, and special theme nights. There are also activities for kids, like a bounce house and a playground.

Of course, the main attraction at a Tennessee Smokies game is the baseball itself. The team plays against other Double-A teams in the Southern League, and the level of play is high. You'll see some future Major League Baseball stars on the field, as well as some current players on rehab assignments from the Chicago Cubs.

Another great thing about attending a Tennessee Smokies game is the affordability. Ticket prices start at just $6 for general admission, and you can often find deals on food and merchandise. The atmosphere at the stadium is relaxed and friendly, making it a great option for families with young children.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a fun activity to do with your kids in Knoxville, attending a Tennessee Smokies minor league baseball game is a great choice. With affordable prices, plenty of entertainment options, and high-quality baseball, it's sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Go bowling at Main Event Entertainment

Knoxville for Kids: Go Bowling at Main Event Entertainment

If you're looking for a fun day out with your kids, look no further than Main Event Entertainment in Knoxville. With a wide range of attractions and activities, there's sure to be something to keep everyone entertained. One of our top recommendations? Hit the lanes and go bowling!

Main Event Entertainment boasts a whopping 22 bowling lanes, all decked out with state-of-the-art technology and cool lighting effects. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a total newbie, the lanes are perfect for all ages and skill levels. Plus, with automatic bumpers and lightweight bowling balls for the little ones, everyone can play in comfort and safety.

Bowling at Main Event is more than just throwing a ball down a lane, though. You can customize your game with different themes and graphics, like cosmic bowling with neon lights and glow-in-the-dark pins. The whole family will love the added excitement and energy that these special features bring to the game.

And if you need to take a break from bowling (or want to mix things up a bit), there are plenty of other attractions and activities to enjoy at Main Event. Challenge your kids to a game of laser tag, scale the rock climbing wall, or take a ride on the gravity ropes course. There's even a virtual reality arena where you can step into a new world and experience some truly mind-bending adventures.

Of course, all that excitement is going to work up an appetite. Luckily, Main Event also has a full-service restaurant and bar, with a menu of classic American fare like burgers, pizzas, and wings. Adults can treat themselves to a craft beer or cocktail, while kids can indulge in sweet treats like sundaes and shakes.

Overall, Main Event Entertainment in Knoxville is a top destination for families looking for a day of fun, games, and good food. So pack up the kids and head over to the bowling lanes - it's sure to be a strike!

Watch a movie at the Regal Cinemas Pinnacle Stadium 18 IMAX & RPX

Knoxville, Tennessee, is an exciting city full of opportunities for families with children. Located in the heart of the city, one of the best places to take your kids is the Regal Cinemas Pinnacle Stadium 18 IMAX & RPX, where you can catch a movie and enjoy a fun-filled experience with your little ones.

The Regal Cinemas Pinnacle Stadium 18 is a state-of-the-art theater which boasts 18 screens, all featuring the latest technology in sight and sound. Additionally, the theater offers IMAX and RPX screens, which will immerse you and your kids in a larger-than-life experience, making you feel like you are part of the action on the big screen. The stadium seats at the theater are comfortable, spacious, and make for a relaxing viewing experience with your family.

The theater offers a wide variety of movies for all ages, from action-packed adventure movies to animated films, there is always something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Additionally, the cinema offers special events and unique screenings, such as movie marathons, showing of classic movies or new releases, and live events like concerts and sports games.

The Regal Cinemas Pinnacle Stadium 18 also provides various refreshments and snacks for your family to indulge in while enjoying the movie, featuring popular options like popcorn, soft drinks, candy, and more. The theater also offers an extensive menu, which includes delicious meals, burgers, sandwiches, and an excellent selection of drinks for adults.

The theater's staff is welcoming, helpful, and dedicated to providing excellent service to your family. They will assist you with your ticket purchases and answer your queries regarding the movies, showtimes, and any special events that are available.

In conclusion, if you and your family are looking for an exciting and fun experience in Knoxville, Tennessee, then the Regal Cinemas Pinnacle Stadium 18 IMAX & RPX is an excellent option. Enjoy watching the latest movies and experiencing larger-than-life images and sounds with your family, all while indulging in tasty refreshments and snacks in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Come and experience the magic of the movies with your family today!

Try indoor skiing at Ober Gatlinburg

If you're looking for an exciting and unique experience for your kids in Knoxville, then indoor skiing at Ober Gatlinburg is an excellent choice.

Located just a short drive from Knoxville, Ober Gatlinburg offers an indoor skiing experience that your kids will love. With a 50 foot snow tubing hill and a beginner slope that's perfect for kids just starting to learn how to ski, Ober Gatlinburg offers a variety of options for your family.

The indoor skiing setup is perfect for kids who may not be comfortable skiing outside, or for those who just want to have some fun without dealing with all the hassle of traditional skiing. The indoor slope is made of a special synthetic material, which allows skiers to move and turn just like they would on real snow.

In addition to skiing, Ober Gatlinburg also offers a range of other activities that your kids will enjoy, such as ice skating, a carousel, a video arcade and even a black bear habitat that's fun for the whole family.

Overall, if you're looking for a fun and exciting activity for your kids in Knoxville, then indoor skiing at Ober Gatlinburg is definitely worth considering. With a friendly staff, top-of-the-line equipment, and a safe and fun indoor environment, this is an experience your kids won't soon forget. So pack up your skis or snowboards, grab your kids, and head to Ober Gatlinburg for a day of fun and adventure.

Ice skate at the Ice Chalet

Characteristic	Description
Name	Ice Chalet
Type	Ice skating rink in Knoxville, Tennessee
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.4 / 285
Address	100 Lebanon St, Knoxville, TN 37919
Phone	(865) 588-1858
Hours	Wednesday - 1–5:30 PM Thursday - 1–9 PM Friday - 1–9 PM Saturday - 1:30–9 PM Sunday - 1–4:30 PM Monday(Memorial Day) - 1–3 PM Tuesday - 1–3 PM
Profiles

Knoxville for Kids: Ice Skate at the Ice Chalet

Looking for a fun activity to do with your kids in Knoxville? Look no further than the Ice Chalet. Located in West Knoxville, the Ice Chalet is a year-round indoor ice skating rink that offers recreational skating, figure skating, and ice hockey programs for kids of all ages.

Whether your child is a seasoned skater or a beginner, the Ice Chalet has something to offer. They offer group and private lessons for all ages and skill levels, so your child can learn and improve at their own pace. Additionally, they offer special programs for kids, such as their Saturday morning "Learn to Skate" program, which is perfect for children who are new to skating.

One of the best things about the Ice Chalet is that it's a great activity for the whole family. Parents can skate alongside their children, or they can relax in the rink's warm viewing area while their kids skate. And, if you need to take a break, the Ice Chalet also has a snack bar where you can grab a hot drink or a snack.

But perhaps the most exciting thing about the Ice Chalet is their special events. They offer school holiday skates, where children can come and skate with their friends during school breaks. They also host birthday parties, with packages that include skating, food, and decorations. And, during the winter holidays, the Ice Chalet transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with a giant Christmas tree, carolers, and special skating events.

So, if you're looking for a fun and unique activity to do with your kids in Knoxville, look no further than the Ice Chalet. With great skating opportunities year-round, special programs for kids, and exciting events, the Ice Chalet is the perfect place to take your family for a fun-filled day of skating.

Visit the Knoxville Museum of Art

Characteristic	Description
Name	Knoxville Museum of Art
Type	Art museum in Knoxville, Tennessee
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 1,368
Address	1050 Worlds Fair Park Dr, Knoxville, TN 37916
Phone	(865) 525-6101
Hours	Wednesday - Closed Thursday - Closed Friday - 10 AM–5 PM Saturday - 10 AM–5 PM Sunday - 1–5 PM Monday(Memorial Day) - Closed Tuesday - Closed
Profiles

Knoxville is a great place to take your kids for a day of fun and learning. If you are looking for a unique experience in Knoxville, the Knoxville Museum of Art must be on your list. The museum is full of exhibits, displays, and activities that will awaken your children’s imagination and creativity.

The Knoxville Museum of Art is located in the heart of Knoxville. The building itself is a work of art, with a beautiful stone facade and an impressive sculpture garden that leads you to the entrance. Once inside, children will be thrilled to encounter the glass-beaded sculpture called "The Scream" by artist Dale Chihuly. It is a perfect example of the museum's mission to bring together contemporary art and the culture and history of East Tennessee.

The museum features many special exhibits that are perfect for children, such as "A is for Art," which showcases works by emerging East Tennessee artists. The exhibit also includes a "hands-on" area where children can create their works of art using various mediums like paint, papier-mâché, and clay. Furthermore, the museum offers "Artful Stories," where children can use their creativity and imagination to bring stories to life through art making.

If you want to visit the Knoxville Museum of Art with your kids, you don't have to worry about the cost because the museum offers free admission, thanks to the support of generous donors. With this, you can take your family to the museum as many times as you want without breaking the bank.

In conclusion, the Knoxville Museum of Art is an exceptional destination for kids in Knoxville, Tennessee. With free admission, hands-on exhibits, and special art programs, the museum offers an opportunity for children to explore their creativity, learn about contemporary art, and discover the art of East Tennessee. So when planning your next family day out, be sure to include the Knoxville Museum of art. Your children will thank you for it!

Play mini golf at Sir Goony's Family Fun Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Sir Goony's Family Fun Center
Type	Amusement center
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.2 / 517
Address	10925 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37934
Phone	(865) 675-3262
Hours	Wednesday - 10 AM–10 PM Thursday - 10 AM–10 PM Friday - 10 AM–11 PM Saturday - 10 AM–11 PM Sunday - 12–10 PM Monday(Memorial Day) - 10 AM–10 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–10 PM
Profiles

Knoxville for Kids: Play Mini Golf at Sir Goonys Family Fun Center

If you're looking for a fun activity to do with your children in Knoxville, then head to Sir Goonys Family Fun Center and try your hand at mini golf! Mini golf, also known as putt-putt, is a wonderful activity that the whole family can enjoy.

Sir Goonys' mini golf course is an 18-hole adventure, designed with exciting obstacles that will test your putting skills. From waterfalls and ponds to sand traps and bridges, each hole has its unique challenges that will keep the game interesting.

The course is well-maintained, and there are clean restrooms and drinking fountains around the area. The staff at Sir Goonys are also very friendly and helpful, so feel free to ask them any questions or concerns that you may have.

Playing mini golf generally takes around an hour or more, depending on the size of your group and how many re-dos you take along the way. It's an excellent way to bond as a family while engaging in some healthy competition.

Sir Goonys Family Fun Center has other activities as well, such as go-karts, bumper boats, and an arcade. They also serve pizza, burgers, and soft drinks, making it a perfect place for a family day out.

The price of mini golf is reasonable, and the rates usually start from $7 for adults and $6 for kids. Sir Goonys offers special packages and discounts at various times of the year, so be sure to keep an eye out for them.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a fun family activity in Knoxville, then be sure to visit Sir Goonys Family Fun Center and challenge your family to a game of mini golf. With 18 holes of adventure, obstacles, and challenges, the whole family is sure to have a good time.

Frequently asked questions