Weekend Family Itinerary for Knoxville, TN — Knoxville, TN

Quick Answer

This weekend family itinerary for Knoxville, TN includes visits to the Knoxville Zoo, the Tennessee Aquarium, and fun dining options that cater to all ages. Enjoy outdoor activities and educational experiences in a vibrant city.

Who This Guide Is For

This guide is designed for families looking to spend a fun and engaging weekend in Knoxville, TN. Whether you're residents or visiting for the first time, you'll find activities and attractions suitable for all ages, from toddlers to teenagers.

Neighborhoods Mentioned in This Guide

Knoxville is home to several vibrant neighborhoods that each offer unique experiences. In this guide, we will highlight:

• Old City
• Market Square
• Fort Sanders
• Fourth and Gill
• Bearden
• West Side
• North Side
• Central Area

Suggested Itinerary for Your Weekend

Day 1: Nature and Education

#### Morning: Knoxville Zoo

Start your weekend at the Knoxville Zoo, located in the Fort Sanders neighborhood. The zoo is home to over 800 animals and offers various exhibits, including the popular Asian Trek and African Savannah. The zoo opens at 9 AM, so arrive early to enjoy a full morning of exploration.

• Highlights:

- Giraffe Encounter: Feed the giraffes and take photos.

- Zoo Train: A fun ride around the zoo for the little ones.

- Wildlife Shows: Check the schedule for educational presentations.

#### Afternoon: Lunch in Market Square

After a morning at the zoo, head to Market Square for lunch. This area is filled with family-friendly dining options, such as:

• The Tomato Head: Known for its delicious pizzas and sandwiches.
• Calhoun's on the River: Offers a great view along with BBQ and comfort food.
• Sweet P's BBQ: A local favorite with a casual atmosphere.

#### Late Afternoon: Ijams Nature Center

Post-lunch, make your way to Ijams Nature Center, just a short drive from Market Square. This 315-acre park offers trails, a quarry, and activities like paddleboarding and canoeing, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Activities:

- Hiking: Choose from various trails suitable for all skill levels.

- Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for local birds and other wildlife.

- Canoeing: Rent a canoe or kayak for a fun water experience.

Day 2: Culture and Fun

#### Morning: Knoxville Museum of Art

On your second day, visit the Knoxville Museum of Art in the Central Area. The museum features a diverse collection of American art and rotating exhibitions. Entry is free, making it a budget-friendly way to introduce your children to culture.

• Highlights:

- Art Classes: Check for any family workshops scheduled during your visit.

- Outdoor Sculpture Garden: Enjoy the beautiful sculptures in the garden.

#### Afternoon: Lunch in Bearden

After soaking up some culture, head to Bearden for lunch. This neighborhood is known for its diverse dining options:

• Chuy's: A vibrant Tex-Mex restaurant loved by families.
• Sushi Spot: Offers a unique twist with sushi rolls that appeal to kids.
• The Cheesecake Factory: Known for its extensive menu and, of course, delicious cheesecake.

#### Late Afternoon: World’s Fair Park

After lunch, visit World’s Fair Park, an iconic landmark in Knoxville. The park features beautiful gardens, fountains, and the Sunsphere, which offers a panoramic view of the city.

• Activities:

- Fountain of the Rivers: Kids can splash around in the water features.

- Sunsphere Observation Deck: Take the elevator up for stunning views.

- Picnic Areas: Enjoy a leisurely family picnic in the park.

Evening: Dinner and Entertainment

To wrap up your weekend, enjoy dinner and some entertainment:

• Old City: Head to the Old City for a lively atmosphere and great dining options. Consider:

- The Public House: Offers a cozy setting with a diverse menu.

- Knoxville's Historic Tennessee Theatre: Check if there are any family-friendly shows or movies playing.

After dinner, take a stroll through the area, soaking up the vibrant nightlife, or catch a performance if time allows.

Neighborhood Breakdown

Old City

The Old City is known for its historic charm and vibrant nightlife. It offers numerous dining and entertainment options, making it a great spot for families to relax after a day of activities.

Market Square

Market Square serves as the heart of Knoxville, featuring shops, restaurants, and frequent events. The atmosphere is perfect for family outings, with plenty of space to explore and enjoy.

Fort Sanders

Home to the Knoxville Zoo, Fort Sanders is a family-friendly neighborhood with parks and recreational areas. It’s ideal for those looking to combine educational experiences with fun activities.

Fourth and Gill

This neighborhood features beautiful historic homes and a community-oriented atmosphere. It’s close to parks and the downtown area, making it a convenient location for family visits.

Bearden

Bearden is known for its shopping and dining options, making it a convenient stop for families looking to grab a bite or explore unique local stores.

West Side

The West Side offers a mix of residential and commercial areas, providing families with various activities and amenities. It’s a great starting point for exploring the rest of Knoxville.

North Side

This neighborhood is known for its parks and recreational facilities, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities with the family.

Central Area

Central Area is home to cultural attractions like the Knoxville Museum of Art, making it a great place for families to engage with art and local history.

Conclusion

Knoxville, TN, is a fantastic destination for families looking to spend a memorable weekend together. With its blend of nature, culture, and fun, there's something for everyone. From the Knoxville Zoo to the vibrant atmosphere of Market Square, each day can be filled with exciting activities. Make sure to take advantage of the local dining options and enjoy the beautiful neighborhoods throughout the city.

Neighborhoods to Explore in Knoxville

• [family fit in Old City](/tn/knoxville/neighborhoods/old-city)
• [Market Square neighborhood guide](/tn/knoxville/neighborhoods/market-square)
• [family fit in Fort Sanders](/tn/knoxville/neighborhoods/fort-sanders)
• [Fourth and Gill neighborhood guide](/tn/knoxville/neighborhoods/fourth-and-gill)
• [living in Bearden](/tn/knoxville/neighborhoods/bearden)
• [family fit in West Side](/tn/knoxville/neighborhoods/west-side)
• [living in West Side](/tn/knoxville/neighborhoods/west-side)
• [North Side neighborhood guide](/tn/knoxville/neighborhoods/north-side)
• [living in Central Area](/tn/knoxville/neighborhoods/central-area)
• [living in Central Area](/tn/knoxville/neighborhoods/central-area)

Related Guides for Knoxville

• [Rainy Day Activities in Knoxville](/tn/knoxville/guides/rainy-day-activities-knoxville)
• [Free Things to Do in Knoxville With Kids](/tn/knoxville/guides/free-things-to-do-in-knoxville-with-kids)
• [Things to Do in Knoxville With Kids](/tn/knoxville/guides/things-to-do-in-knoxville-with-kids)
• [Best Neighborhoods in Knoxville for Retirees](/tn/knoxville/guides/best-neighborhoods-knoxville-retirees)
• [Best Neighborhoods in Knoxville for First-Time Movers](/tn/knoxville/guides/best-neighborhoods-knoxville-first-time-movers)
• [Best Neighborhoods Near Downtown Knoxville](/tn/knoxville/guides/neighborhoods-near-downtown-knoxville)

Helpful Knoxville Tools

• [Get your Knoxville CityFit Report](/tn/knoxville/cityfit-report)
• [Knoxville City Guide hub](/tn/knoxville)
• [All Knoxville guides](/tn/knoxville/guides)
• [Events in Knoxville](/tn/knoxville/events)
• [Moving to Knoxville](/tn/knoxville/move-in)