The Alex Haley statue is a visually arresting tribute to the author of Roots. This honorary statue is located by a children's playground and is not only educational but interactive so that you can learn a little more about this pioneering American writer. Also, make sure your camera is photo-ready, as the statue is one of the most unique backdrops for photos in Knoxville.
The Allan Jones Aquatic Center is located on the campus of the University of Tennessee. The facility features a 50-meter competition pool as well as a separate competition diving area if you're feeling a little more adventurous. There's also a strength training center on-site as well. Plus the facility features seating for 1,800 spectators.
The Armstrong Lockett House in Crescent Bend is a stunning mansion built in 1834 and stands as a majestic centerpiece on 600 acres of rolling Tennessee land between the river and the mountains. The structure was restored in 1977 and the interior features authentic 18th century furniture and classic fountains, among other aesthetically pleasing items. This attraction provides a low-keyed but compelling tour full of history and class. Just make sure to call on weekend afternoons to make sure that they are welcoming visitors, as the mansion is frequently the site of weddings on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.
Dollywood is no ordinary attraction. But then again, Dolly Parton, the park's namesake, is no ordinary performer. This theme park is co-owned by Parton, and it's good, clean family fun for everyone that includes rollercoasters, kiddie rides, craft shops, and great restaurants. Plus, you may even have a chance to see Dolly take stage and perform all her biggest hits.
Fountain Lanes Strike and Spare Family Bowling is a great place to get the family together and enjoy some fun in a very impressive entertainment facility. Get your game on when you let the ball roll down one of the 36 synthetic lanes. A digital scoring system, lots of choices at the full-service grill and a great drink menu all ensure that you'll enjoy every one of your frames! There's also an impressively-stocked pro shop and an arcade for the kids, too!
Take the family on an unforgettable adventure in nature when you visit the Ijams Nature Center. The kids will absolutely love the hands-on exhibits and attractions that encourage a high level of interactivity. Learn about lost animal species, conservation, and lots more. You can also take a tour on the many trails that lead through the grounds and see some creatures dwelling in their natural habitats. Whatever you decide to do, there's plenty of great family fun waiting at the Ijams Nature Center.
The kids love to skateboard and you feel better going out with them to watch and support their love of the sport. So, the obvious destination for this unique brand of family fun is the Knoxville Skatepark. This park has become one of Knoxville's most popular family attractions, and while the skateboard areas are unsupervised, safety is still the park's main priority. Helmets must be worn by skaters at all times and parents must also abide by the rules that include no smoking in the park area. Those guidelines are enforced to ensure that everyone has a great time when they visit this great family-oriented venue.
Wild attractions await you and your family when you visit the Knoxville Zoo. Enjoy seeing the many animals in their natural habitats as you walk through this impressive venue. The designers of the animal living areas have taken great care to make sure that the creatures are quite visible from several vantage points. The zoo also features a great petting zoo where the kids can feed the llamas. And, don't miss the mesmerizing bird shows as well as kid favorites like lions, bears, penguins and monkeys.
Knoxville's great outdoors await at the Obed Wild and Scenic River. Not only can you enjoy the scenic landscape that is spread out over 8,500 acres of virgin woods and mountains, you'll also be able to take part in a dramatic adventure. The center of that drama is on the untamed Obed River itself, as the whitewater courses will challenge even the most seasoned whitewater rafter. You can also enjoy camping, picnicking, hiking, rock climbing and hunting when you visit this marvelous natural attraction in Knoxville.
History buffs and lovers of great architecture alike will truly enjoy a visit to the Ramsey House Plantation. The two-story Georgian-style home has the distinction of being the first stone house built in this region. The home was built for Colonel Francis Alexander Ramsey and his residence became the center of social, political and religious life in Knoxville at the turn of the 19th century. Visitors will marvel at the 18th century architectural design and vintage furnishings that adorn the house. There are also gardens and a museum on site as well.
Ripley's Haunted Adventure draws you into a place where you will definitely feel the chill of the unfamiliar. The tour features a visit to the abandoned Grimsby and Streaper Casket Company. This site was constructed in 1891 and was built over a cave called The Sinks. Legend has it that everyone who ventured here went mad, and that is where the scary fun begins. A frighteningly fun adventure for all!
The Track Family Recreation Center wants the whole family to be on the edge of their seat! This fun amusement park offers plenty of ways to experience some high-flying adventure. Outdoor activities and recreation include go-karts, miniature golf, bungee jumping and lots of kiddie rides.
Knoxville had the honor of hosting the World's Fair in 1982. Nearly thirty years after that momentous occasion, the site of the celebration still draws visitors. Attractions include The Candy Factory, a group of Victorian homes that house shops that sell arts and crafts, and Fort Kid which is a playground that features historically-themed rides and play areas. You'll find the Knoxville Museum of Art on the site, as well. The celebration of the World's Fair clearly still echoes at this fun, family-friendly attraction in Knoxville.