Your Kid-Friendly Guide to Downtown Knoxville: A One-Day Itinerary
Make new memories, educate the kiddos, and bring smiles all around with this one-day kid-friendly itinerary in Downtown Knoxville. We know the kids will love it, but honestly, it's a day the whole family will enjoy!
MORNING: MUSEUM OF EAST TENNESSEE HISTORY
There’s something for all walks of life to learn at the Museum of East Tennessee History, whether you’re visiting from out of state or you live right here in Knoxville. Get lost listening to first-person stories of what life was like in Voices of the Land. Explore the award-winning exhibits and imagine with your kids what East Tennessee’s past was like, as you both learn about the people, places, and events that shaped this part of the world. If your kids are up for more history, you can also visit the Blount Mansion, James White's Fort, and the STORIES Mural.
LUNCH: PETRO'S
Nothing satisfies a kid's belly like a bowl full of Fritos, chili, cheese and all the fixings, paired with a Hint of Orange Tea. If you have picky eaters on your hands, don’t worry – you can order Petro’s chili on hotdogs, mac and cheese, pasta, nachos, and baked potatoes. Located on the corner of Market Square, this lunch spot is centrally located.
Fun fact: they began by serving patrons of the World’s Fair Park in 1982!
AFTERNOON: SPLASH PADS
Now, it’s time to let loose any pent-up energy! Head over to one of downtown’s outdoor parks – Volunteer Landing or World’s Fair Park – for the kids to run through the splash pads. The splash pads are seasonal, so check hours before you go. There’s nothing more fun than getting wet and making new friends. And while you’re at World’s Fair Park, get an epic shot of your children in front of the Sunsphere! And if you’re at Volunteer Landing, rent bikes, kayaks, or stand-up paddle boards from Knoxville Adventure Collective.
AFTERNOON: STORIES MURAL SCAVENGER HUNT
Walk the kids to the Old City, where you'll find the interactive STORIES Mural on the Jackson Ave and Gay Street Stairwell. The mural showcases the stories of Knoxville's history, people, and culture, from writers to celebrities, activists to space explorers. Download the "Easy Dozen" and "41 Fun Facts" from this link, so that the kids can find all the icons and learn the meaning behind them!
DINNER: TACOS OR PIZZA
You can’t go wrong with pizza or tacos! With pizza slices as big as your face, everyone will be in awe of Dazzo’s signature pie: Grandma’s Pizza. And there’s surely enough to pass around. Likewise, you can pass around tacos and fajitas from Soccer Taco, satisfying every hungry mouth, while the parents enjoy a margarita. Bring on the queso!
NIGHT: PICK YOUR ACTIVITY
When night rolls around, it’s time to hit the games! We recommend bowling at Maple Hall (parent pro tip: they carry craft cocktails and cool vibes), or Escape Game for a whole lot of family bonding. And if you’re still up for dessert after that, The Phoenix Parmacy & Fountain carries mountain-sized sundaes, malted shakes, and homemade ice cream.
Downtown Knoxville has plenty of fun for all ages!
We welcome you and your family for a great day making memories on the town!