Sunsphere
A golden World's Fair tower with an observation deck.
Knoxville
A university city in the Tennessee Valley, gateway to the Smokies, with a gold-glass globe from the 1982 World's Fair.
Market Square has cafés and music, and the Sunsphere is the city's mascot. University of Tennessee football draws 100,000 people.
- Best Time
- Spring and fall
- Time Needed
- Half a day
- Cost Level
- $$$$
- Open
- Year-round
- Getting There
- McGhee Tyson Airport, about an hour from the Smokies.
What to See
2 of 3 are freeMarket Square
Outdoor dining and a farmers market.
Neyland Stadium
'Vol Navy' fans arrive by boat.
Know Before You Go
- Check opening hours before you go, especially on weekends and at state buildings.
Where to Stay
Stay downtown.
Where to Eat
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Last checked 2026-11-01. Part of the Southeast list.