Beautiful Knoxville, TN, located in East Tennessee on the banks of the Tennessee River, offers many options for food, shopping, music, outdoor activities, and more. Happily, we have lots of museums, activities, and parks to enjoy, no matter your budget. When you’re in town and looking for free things to do or want ideas of inexpensive things to do, check out this list of fun and engaging options. Whether you’re a local or you’re here for vacation, we’ve got some of the best cheap things to do in Knoxville, TN!
4 Best Free or Cheap Activities in Knoxville, TN
Free Things to Do
Knoxville Museum of Art
If you’re inspired by the visual arts, look no further than the excellent Knoxville Museum of Art at 1050 World’s Fair Park Drive. Works by local, national, and global artists grace the halls of this well-curated museum. Internationally acclaimed artists Beauford and Joseph Delaney and Richard Jolley, all who claim Knoxville as home, have art on display here, as do many other traditional and contemporary artists. Admission is free for all ages. While you’re in the downtown Knoxville area, make your trip unforgettable by exploring some things to do on Gay Street.
McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture
A great choice for adults and kids alike, the McClung Museum, located on the campus of the University of Tennessee at 1327 Circle Park Drive, has two floors of fascinating exhibits. View exhibits about the Native peoples of Tennessee, early human ancestry, the geology and fossil history of the area, decorative arts, and more. Experience and learn even more at one of the many public programs the museum holds regularly. Admission is free.
Ijams Nature Center
One of Knoxville’s crown jewels, Ijams Nature Center, located on 300 acres at 2915 Island Home Avenue, has everything an outdoor enthusiast could want. Walk one of its many trails or bike along the greenway in beautiful wooded surroundings. Swim or paddle at Mead’s Quarry or enjoy the boardwalk along the Tennessee River. Adventurous types can tackle rock climbing at the Ijams Crag, and everyone will love seeing Ijams’ wide variety of native wildlife. Admission is free.
Cheap Things to Do
James White’s Fort
Located at 205 East Hill Avenue is Knoxville’s very first home. Dating back to 1786, ten years before the founding of the state of Tennessee itself, James White’s residence is considered the birthplace of Knoxville. On this self-guided tour, you’ll get to see the original kitchen with its huge fireplace, furniture of the time period, including James White’s desk, and household items common to the era. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for kids.
Visit our Favorite Thrift Stores
Find a reasonably-priced, unique way to remember your trip to Knoxville when you hit up some of our favorite thrifting Knoxville sites. Not only do these thrift stores help you make your trip a bit greener, but they also help you find a unique, cheap way to remember your trip!
With all the money you’ll save when you’re taking advantage of these cheap or free Knoxville spots, you’ll be able to save up even more for a beautiful new car! When you’re ready to buy, come to Rick McGill’s Airport Toyota to drive one of our many outstanding new or pre-owned vehicles. Our locally-owned dealership’s number one priority is your satisfaction.
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