For families with a thirst for culture, history and outdoor adventure, Knoxville, Tennessee is the perfect destination. It's a thriving city, rich in Appalachian lore, and is the gateway to the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Whether you're seeking an immersive city break or a fun-filled outdoor holiday, Knoxville provides the ideal backdrop.
Whether you're looking for the convenience of a city centre hotel, the charm of a quaint B&B, or something more upscale and luxurious, Knoxville boasts a wide array of accommodation options to cater for all family needs and budgets. Interested in learning more? Read on to uncover the best family-friendly places to stay and play in Knoxville.
Things to do
In Knoxville, there is an abundance of activities sure to delight families of all shapes and sizes. Explore the city's fascinating history, immerse in its vibrant culture, and rediscover the joys of the great outdoors.
Kickstart your adventure by journeying through time at Muse Knoxville, where science and art intertwine to inspire young minds. For animal lovers, a day at Zoo Knoxville offers endless fun and learning experiences, with a collection of amazing animals from around the globe awaiting to captivate your family.
Take a stroll in the scenic World's Fair Park, an iconic Knoxville landmark with a rich historical context. As home to the 1982 World's Fair, it provides a perfect setting for a family outing. The park's beautiful landscape, relaxing atmosphere, and variety of recreational activities make it a destination your family won’t want to miss.
Finish off your Knoxville journey by soaking in its mythical Appalachian culture and close proximity to the breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains National Park - the perfect location for a family day-out immersed in nature.
When to visit
The beauty of Knoxville is that it's a year-round destination - there’s always something to see and do. A profusion of family-friendly attractions and activities, from the splendour of its nature parks to the interactive, educational fun of its museums, make it a relevant choice for holidays at any time of the year.
For those seeking warm-weather pursuits, mid-May through late June and early August till early October are ideal, boasting average high temperatures above 26°C. The city experiences cooler trends from late November to late February, providing an opportunity for a cosy winter getaway. A word to the wise: schools' summer holidays tend to see Knoxville at its busiest and slightly pricier. If you prefer fewer crowds and more moderate temperatures, consider planning your visit in April-May or September-October periods.
Things you'll love...
- Explore Knoxville's rich history, from its origins as a humble 18th-century settlement to its status as a modern metropolitan city.
- Immerse in the rich Appalachian culture and relish the city's proximity to the breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- Ignite young minds at Muse Knoxville, with its interactive exhibits centred around both science and art.
- Experience the thrill of wildlife up close at Zoo Knoxville, home to an array of exotic animals, including African Elephants and Red Pandas.
- Immerse in nature and outdoor recreational activities at the historic World's Fair Park in the city centre.
Main airport
- McGhee Tyson Airport
