π Events & Things To Do
Family-friendly events, festivals, and activities in Maryville & Knoxville
5K / Fun Run
πββοΈ Heroes for Hope 5K & Kids Fun Run
π 325 Court St, Maryville, TN 37804
π (865) 981-2000
π° Free to watch | Registration required for runners
πΆ Ages: All ages
The seventh annual Heroes for Hope 5K & Kids Fun Run is this Saturday, April 25th at the Maryville Greenbelt Amphitheater. This is one of the most meaningful family-friendly events in Maryville β it is a fundraiser for New Hope Children's Advocacy Center, which serves abused and traumatized...
Attractions
π¦ Safety City Knoxville
π 2200 Safety City Way, Knoxville, TN 37919
π (865) 215-7103
π° Free
πΆ Ages: All ages (best for preschoolβelementary)
- Free admission
- Indoor activities
- Bike and scooter friendly
- Interactive learning
- Police department run
Safety City is a free, hands-on safety education attraction for kids in the Knoxville area. Run by the Knoxville Police Department in partnership with City of Knoxville Parks & Recreation, it features a miniature city where elementary-aged children can practice and demonstrate real-world safety...
Art & Crafts
π¨ Creative Spark Studio
π 2009 E Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37804
π (865) 995-6001
π° $$
πΆ Ages: All ages
- DIY projects
- Pottery painting
- Glass fusing
- Take-home kits
- Birthday parties
This DIY studio is a rare find in Maryville - a place where you can walk in with zero experience and still leave with something you made and are proud of. They have pottery painting, glass fusing, string art, alcohol ink painting, and other craft projects that rotate through their menu. The space...
Family entertainment district
The Island in Pigeon Forge
π 131 The Island Drive, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
π (865) 286-0119
π Open daily, 365 days a year; hours vary by season
π° Free admission and free parking; unlimited rides wristband available
πΆ Ages: All ages
- Free parking
- Free admission
- Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
- Ropes course
- Splash/fountain shows
A 23-acre family entertainment district in the heart of Pigeon Forge, The Island in Pigeon Forge is packed with kid-friendly things to do. The centerpiece is the 200-foot Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, with climate-controlled gondolas offering views of the Smokies. There is also a three-story ropes...
More Events & Things To Do
π’ Dollywood
π 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
π (865) 428-9488
π° Varies by season β check dollywood.com/tickets for current pricing
πΆ Ages: All ages
- 50+ rides
- Live entertainment
- Seasonal festivals
- Splash Country water park
- Dining
Dollywood is the Smoky Mountainsβ signature family attraction, spanning 160 acres just south on I-40 from Maryville. The theme park features more than 50 rides, world-class live entertainment, award-winning dining, and seasonal festivals from spring through Christmas. Kids love the ride variety β...
π Spooktacular Extravaganza
π West Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37801
π (865) 983-9244
π° Free
πΆ Ages: All ages
- Free admission
- Trick or treating
- Dog costume contest
- Food vendors
- Rain or shine
Maryville's annual free Halloween street festival returns to downtown on Friday, October 24, 2026 from 5β8 p.m. West Broadway Avenue closes to traffic between Boyd Thomas Clothing and Broadway United Methodist Church, and the whole street turns into a family Halloween party. What to expect: - Trick...
π Fireworks Maryville β Seasonal Retail
π 2114 East Broadway Avenue, Maryville, TN 37804
π 9 AM - 10 PM (midnight on July 4)
π° Varies by product
πΆ Ages: All ages
- Seasonal hours
- Family-owned
- Full range of consumer fireworks
- In-person browsing
Seasonal fireworks retail stand in Maryville, operating every July 4th season. This is where you buy fireworks, not where a display happens. Family-owned local Blount County operation. Sells a full range of consumer fireworks β sparklers, fountains, aerials, sky rockets, and larger shows. Great...
π Fourth of July on Mabry's Hill
π 1711 Dandridge Ave, Knoxville, TN 37915
π (865) 522-8661
π° $20 adults, $5 ages 5-15, under 5 free
πΆ Ages: All ages (16+ for general admission with alcohol)
- Live music
- Local food vendors
- Brewery beverages
- Historic house tours
- Declaration of Independence reading
Mabry-Hazen House hosts an old-fashioned Fourth of July celebration right off I-40, just minutes from downtown Maryville. Gather on their seven acres of green space with lawn chairs and blankets for live music, local food, drinks from area breweries, and self-guided tours of the 1858 house museum....
π΅ Levitt AMP Maryville Music Series 2026
π Charles West Amphitheater, Jack Greene Park, Maryville, TN 37804
π (865) 229-3209
π° Free
πΆ Ages: All ages
- Free admission
- Outdoor amphitheater
- Family-friendly
- Bring lawn chairs or blankets
- July dates: July 2, 9, 16, 23 at 7-9pm
Free outdoor concert series at Charles West Amphitheater at Jack Greene Park, Maryville. Presented by Downtown Maryville Alliance. The 2026 season has concluded (June 4 - July 30). Updates for the 2027 season will be posted on the Levitt AMP website.
π Clayton Center for the Arts
π 502 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville, TN 37804
π (865) 981-8590
πΆ Ages: All ages
A performing arts venue at Maryville College hosting family-friendly shows, musicals, dance performances, and art exhibits year-round. Check their event calendar for family-friendly programming. Free parking on-site and downtown street parking available.
π Duck Pond Fishing Derby for Kids
π 1300 Springbrook Rd, Alcoa, TN 37701
π (865) 983-9244
π° $10-$15
πΆ Ages: Ages 3-15
- Free shaved ice
- Goody bags
- Games area
- Door prizes
- Trophies for age divisions
The annual Duck Pond Fishing Derby for Kids is a Blount County Parks & Rec tradition that brings families together every early June. This year it runs Saturday, June 6, 2026 at the Alcoa Duck Pond (1300 Springbrook Rd, Alcoa, TN). Open to ages 3β15, the derby features age-divided trophy prizes...
Songs by the Brook β Summer Concert Series
π Springbrook Park, 1537 Dalton St, Alcoa, TN 37701
π (865) 983-9244
π 6:00 PM β 9:00 PM
π° Free
πΆ Ages: All ages
- Free admission
- Live local and regional musicians
- Food vendors on site
- Playground and trails at venue
- Americana, folk, and blues genres
Free summer concert series held at Springbrook Park in Alcoa, featuring Americana, folk, and blues from regional and local musicians. 2026 dates: August 13, August 27, and September 10, 2026. Concerts run 6-9 PM. Free admission with food vendors on site. Springbrook Park features trails,...
π Urban Air Adventure Park (Knoxville)
π 9626 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37922
π (865) 409-2215
π° Varies by attraction; see website for pricing
πΆ Ages: All ages (toddlers through adults)
- Trampolines
- Go-karts
- Ninja warrior course
- Climbing wall
- Zip line
Urban Air is the biggest indoor adventure park serving the greater Maryville area, located on Kingston Pike in Knoxville. Families from Maryville drive up I-75 (about 20 minutes) for the full experience β and it is totally worth the trip. The park has over 42,000 square feet of attractions...
π³ Alcoa Picnic in the Park
π 1537 Dalton St, Alcoa, TN 37701
π (865) 983-9244
π° Free
πΆ Ages: All ages
A classic community picnic for families at Alcoa Park. Enjoy food, music, and entertainment at Springbrook Park (1537 Dalton St, Alcoa, TN 37701). Free event hosted by Blount County Parks & Rec. Contact: Blount County Parks & Recreation 316 S. Everett High Rd, Maryville, TN 37804 Phone:...
π For the Kids Classic Car Truck & Cycle Show
π 370 S Long Hollow Rd, Maryville, TN 37801
π° $30 registration (spectators free)
πΆ Ages: All ages
- Classic cars, trucks & motorcycles
- Family-friendly
- Fundraiser for The Christmas Store
- Free parking
This year it is May 17th from 12-4pm at Rio Central. The event benefits children and relative caregivers across 17 surrounding counties. Registration is $30 and includes a goody bag, with free entry for all spectators. Activities will include an outdoor luncheon and kids activities. Pro tip: Come...
π Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival
π 7930 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882
π° Tickets - price varies by ticket type
πΆ Ages: All ages (wine tasting 21+ only)
- Wine tasting experience
- Hot air balloon launches
- Family-friendly
- Fundraiser for fire dept and elementary school
- Outdoor event
The 8th Annual Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival is coming back to Townsend on August 15, 2026, and it is such a perfect family outing for late summer. This is more than just balloons - it's a fundraiser for the Townsend Volunteer Fire Department and Townsend Elementary School, so your...
π³ The Armory
π 496 Ellis Avenue, Maryville, TN 37804
π (855) 587-4655
π Sun-Thu 11am-11pm, Fri-Sat 11am-midnight
π° $$$
πΆ Ages: All ages
- duckpin bowling
- 9-hole putting course
- VR experiences
- digital darts
- skeet shooting
The Armory is a 27,000-square-foot entertainment venue in downtown Maryville that reimagined the historic building at 496 Ellis Avenue. Opened July 20, 2026, it features duckpin bowling, a 9-hole putting course, shuffleboard, bocce, yard games, digital darts, skeet shooting, and cutting-edge VR...
π΅ Tuesday Shindig @ Tri-Hop Brewery
π 205 Court Street, Maryville, TN 37804
π (865) 980-8350
π° Free
πΆ Ages: All ages
- Live music
- Family-friendly
- Outdoor seating
- Food trucks
- Local artists
Downtown Maryville's family and pet-friendly brewery since 2017. Known for their Tuesday Shindig live music series with food trucks. Currently owned by brewer Jeff Hooper and Zach Stinnett (since Feb 2025). Great spot for families - kids welcome during daytime hours. Features rotating craft beer...
π©° Appalachian Ballet Company
π 215 W. Broadway Ave., Maryville, TN 37801
π (865) 982-8463
πΆ Ages: All ages
The Appalachian Ballet Company is East Tennessees premier classical performing company and the resident dance company of the Clayton Center for the Arts. Based at Van Metre School of Dance in Maryville, ABC has been chartered since 1972 and performs an annual three-program season featuring...
ποΈ Blount County Historical Museum
π 1006 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville, TN 37804
π (865) 454-4256
π Wed-Sat 10am-3pm, closed Sun-Tue
π° Free
πΆ Ages: All ages
- Free admission
- Group visits available
- Parking available
- Restrooms
- America 250 exhibits
A free, family-friendly museum in downtown Maryville showcasing the people, places, and stories that shaped Blount County. Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays about local history β from early settlers to the first families of Blount County. Right now they are...
β¨ Children's Museum of Oak Ridge
π 461 W Outer Dr, Oak Ridge, TN 37830
π (865) 482-1074
π Tue-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 1-4pm, Closed Mondays
π° Admission fees apply
πΆ Ages: 0β10
The Children's Museum of Oak Ridge is a hands-on science museum in historic Oak Ridge, about 30 minutes north of Maryville. It's a fantastic rainy-day or summer outing for kids ages 0β10, with interactive exhibits covering everything from space and engineering to local history. The museum features...
βοΈ Tennessee Museum of Aviation
π 135 Air Museum Way, Sevierville, TN 37862
π (865) 908-0171
π° Adults $12, Seniors $10, Students $8, Kids (3-5) $5
πΆ Ages: All ages - especially great for ages 5+
- Hangar tours
- Vintage aircraft
- Working airfield
- Interactive exhibits
- Gift shop
Families who love airplanes and aviation history need to see this place. It is one of the best aviation museums in Tennessee, with a real collection of vintage planes, jets, and helicopters that kids can actually walk inside. The museum is on a working airfield in Sevierville, about 45 minutes from...
π 3rd Thursday Downtown Maryville
π Downtown Maryville, TN
π° Free (food and shopping extra)
πΆ Ages: All ages
- Live music
- Art demonstrations
- Shopping
- Family-friendly
- Downtown
Starting April 16th, 2026, downtown Maryville kicks off its second season of 3rd Thursdays - think art walk meets live music meets family fun. Every third Thursday of the month (April through October) from 5:30-7:30 pm, you can explore downtown shops, grab dinner at one of the restaurants, and...
π΄ Give It a Tri - Junior Triathlon Camp
π John Sevier Pool/Park, 1998 Sequoyah Ave, Maryville, TN 37804
π (865) 983-9244
π June 15-18, 2026 (Mon-Thurs), 9:00 AM - Noon
π° $100
πΆ Ages: Ages 8-12
If your kid is curious about swimming, biking, and running but has no idea where to start, this is the perfect introduction. Blount County Parks & Recreation runs "Give It a Tri" - a week-long triathlon camp for ages 8-12 that builds skills and confidence in a supportive, fun environment. What...
π Grease - Maryville College Theatre
π Clayton Center for the Arts, 600 Clayton Center Drive, Maryville, TN 37804
π (865) 983-5100
π April 16-19, 2026 | Thu-Sat 7pm, Sun 2pm
π° Varies by seating
πΆ Ages: All ages (suitable for middle schoolers and up)
- Live theatre
- Musical
- Family-friendly
- Community production
Maryville College Theatre is putting on the iconic musical Grease at the Ronald and Lynda Nutt Theatre in the Clayton Center for the Arts. This is a great family-friendly way to see the 1950s story of high school teens, friendship, and romance at Rydell High School. The cast includes MC seniors,...
π½οΈ Long Table Community Dinner
π Maryville Greenway - Library Bridge, Maryville, TN 37804
π° Free (sponsors required for attendance)
πΆ Ages: All ages
- Free event
- Family-friendly
- Outdoor dining
- Supports local chefs
This is one of Maryvilleβs favorite free community events. Four local chefs prepare a multi-course seasonal meal served on a long table that stretches across the Maryville Greenwayβs Library Bridge. Itβs family-friendly, free to attend, and a great way to support the Blount County Chamber. What to...
Parkway Drive-In Movie Theater
π 2909 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville, TN 37804
π (865) 379-9865
π Friday and Saturday nights, gates open at 7 PM, movies start at dusk
π° Varies by movie β see website
πΆ Ages: All ages
- Two movies per show
- Full concession stand
- FM radio audio (100.9)
- Rain or shine
- Cash at ticket booth
A piece of Tennessee movie history β the Parkway Drive-In plays Friday and Saturday nights, rain or shine. Two movies for the price of one, gates open at 7 PM, and films start at dusk. They have a full concession stand with hot food and snacks. You can tune into 100.9 FM for the audio. Cash only at...
π Summer on Broadway β Downtown Maryville
π Broadway, Downtown Maryville, TN 37801
π° Free
πΆ Ages: All ages
- Live music
- Food vendors
- Kids activities
- Artisan market
- Free admission
Summer on Broadway is a monthly outdoor event right in the heart of downtown Maryville. Families flock to Broadway for live music, local food vendors, artisan markets, kids activities, and a fantastic community atmosphere. Events are held on select Fridays and Saturdays throughout the season. 2026...
β°οΈ Alpine Tower - Blount County Parks & Rec
π 316 S. Everett High Rd, Maryville, TN 37804
π (865) 983-9244
π° Program-specific fees
πΆ Ages: Varies by program
- Outdoor climbing adventure
- Certified instructors
- Multiple difficulty levels
- Builds confidence and teamwork
Looking for an adventure that will make your kids feel like they have conquered the world? The Alpine Tower at Pearson Springs Park is a 60 foot climbing tower that challenges kids and adults to work through their comfort zones and reach new heights. Literally. This is not just climbing; it is...
AMC Foothills 12
π 134 Foothills Mall Dr, Maryville, TN 37801
π (865) 981-2848
Movie theater in Maryville at Foothills Mall Drive. Good for kids with modern screens. Free Wi-Fi. 12 screens of family entertainment.
Anakeesta β Gatlinburg Mountaintop Adventure Park
π 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
π (865) 325-2400
π° Paid admission (day tickets; all-day park access included)
πΆ Ages: 4+
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Anakeesta is a family-friendly mountaintop adventure park perched above downtown Gatlinburg, about an hour-and-a-half drive from Maryville. The trip starts with a scenic Crystal Express gondola ride (or the Ridge Rambler truck) up Anakeesta Mountain, where kids can explore the Treetop Skywalk β a...
B&B Indoor Foam Dart Arena
π 6709 Maynardville Pike, Knoxville, TN 37918
π (865) 686-9252
π School year: Closed Mon-Thu; Fri 4-9pm; Sat 11am-9pm; Sun 11am-8pm. Summer: Closed Mon; Sun-Thu 11am-8pm; Fri-Sat 11am-9pm.
π° $16 per player per 60-min session; $10/additional hour; parties from $375
πΆ Ages: Ages 5 and up
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Knoxville's first indoor foam dart battle arena! B&B Indoor Foam Dart Arena (run by Blasters & Burgers LLC) is a family-friendly, alcohol-free venue where kids (ages 5 and up) can run, dodge, and duke it out in high-energy Nerf-style foam dart battles. Great for birthday parties, walk-in...
Breakout Games Knoxville
π 211 Center Park Dr, Suite 3040, Knoxville, TN 37922
π (865) 730-4909
π Mon-Thu 10am-11pm, Fri 10am-11:45pm, Sat 9am-11:45pm, Sun 10am-11pm
π° Varies by room; book online
πΆ Ages: 8+
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Breakout Games Knoxville is a family-friendly escape room center where kids, teens, and adults can team up to solve puzzles and crack a story within 60 minutes. Located in the Turkey Creek area, it features a rotating lineup of themed rooms, including the officially licensed MONOPOLY: Get Out of...
π Broadway Center for the Arts
π 611 McCammon Avenue, Maryville, TN 37801
π (865) 657-7140
π° Varies by production and program
πΆ Ages: All children and families
Broadway Center for the Arts is an award-winning childrenβs theater company based right here in Maryville, producing 8β10 high-quality shows each year that bring live performance to families across East Tennessee. Their productions range from musicals like 101 Dalmatians Kids and The Lightning...
Cades Cove Museum
π 1004 E Lamar Alexander Parkway, Maryville, TN 37804
π (865) 982-0705
π Wed-Fri 10am-3pm, Sat 10am-4pm, closed Mon-Tue
The Cades Cove Museum, operated by the Cades Cove Preservation Association, offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Smoky Mountains region. Housed in the historic Thompson-Brown House in Maryville, the museum showcases a collection of old and new photos, history,...
Deep Well Farm Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze
π 9567 Hwy 11E, Lenoir City, TN 37772
π (865) 816-2131
A real working farm that turns into a family fall destination in Lenoir City, about 30 minutes from Maryville. Deep Well Farm opened in 2010 and stays true to its roots β the family has farmed this land for nearly 50 years, and it's now mostly hay and pumpkins. What's there: A big corn maze,...
Dollywoodβs Splash Country
π 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
π (800) 365-5996
π Varies by day, typically 10am-7pm (season runs ~May-September; check calendar)
π° 1-day pick-a-day ticket on sale for $29.99 (end-of-season); multi-day and season passes available
πΆ Ages: All ages β dedicated toddler splash areas
- RiverRush water coaster
- Big Bear Plunge
- Wave pool
- Lazy rivers
- Toddler splash zones
The 35-acre water park next to Dollywood in Pigeon Forge is one of the best ways to cool off before the heat officially gives up. It runs on a Smoky Mountain story β Dollyβs childhood swimming in mountain rivers β and the ride lineup fits a wide range of ages: the RiverRush water coaster and Big...
π« Falls Blueberry Farm
π 111 Harmon Rd, Maryville, TN 37804
π (865) 982-3457
π Typically Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat 7 AM - 7 PM (call ahead; exact u-pick dates vary by year)
π° U-pick pricing per pint (varies by season)
πΆ Ages: All ages
- U-pick blueberries
- Family-friendly
- Woman-owned
- Low spray practices
- Honey for sale
Falls Blueberry Farm is a family-run u-pick operation on Harmon Road just east of Maryville. They grow blueberries and welcome visitors during berry season (typically late June through August, weather dependent). Call ahead to confirm they are open for the season before heading out. Why families...
Foothills Paint Your Own Pottery Studio
π 277 S Calderwood St, Alcoa, TN 37701
π (865) 336-1935
πΆ Ages: All ages
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A fun, hands-on creative spot for kids and families near Maryville. Walk-ins are welcome β no appointment needed. Kids pick out a ceramic piece to paint from a rotating selection, then use brushes and glazes to decorate it. Most pieces run $25β$40, which includes studio time, the pottery, paint,...
Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center
π 123 Cromwell Dr, Townsend, TN 37882
π (865) 448-0044
π Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12pm-5pm
π° Adults $15, Seniors $12, Kids 5-12 $10, Kids 4 & under free
πΆ Ages: All ages
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A family-friendly museum in Townsend (about a 25-minute drive from downtown Maryville) that tells the story of the Smoky Mountain region through the people who lived here. The centerpiece is a one-acre historic village of original 19th-century log buildings, plus a Cherokee collection and hands-on...
π Independence 250 Concert on the Fourth
π 123 Cromwell Dr, Townsend, TN 37882
π (865) 448-0044
π° $10 suggested donation
πΆ Ages: All ages
- 45-piece American brass band
- Historical character portrayals
- Fireworks in downtown Townsend after
- Free American flags (first 300)
- Covered amphitheater
The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center hosts a spectacular 4th of July celebration marking Americaβs 250th birthday. A 45-piece American brass band led by conductor Danny Griffin performs John Philip Sousa marches, Appalachian-themed music, and a military/veteran salute. Doors open at 6:30 PM in...
JP Soars & the Red Hots @ Bluetick Tavern
π 128 W Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37804
Saturday, April 26 at 5 PM. Local band playing at Bluetick Tavern in downtown Maryville. Great for families who enjoy live music and outdoor entertainment.
K1 Speed Knoxville
π 297 N Seven Oaks Dr, Knoxville, TN 37922
π (865) 297-4053
π Mon-Thu 12pm-10pm, Fri 12pm-12am, Sat 10am-12am, Sun 10am-10pm
πΆ Ages: Kids 4 ft+ (junior karts); teens/adults 4 ft 10 in+
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K1 Speed Knoxville is an indoor, all-electric go-kart racing center that is open year-round, rain or shine β a great family outing about 30 minutes from Maryville. Race high-performance electric karts up to 45 mph on a professionally designed indoor track, then hit the state-of-the-art arcade or...
Knox Asian Festival
π World's Fair Park Performance Lawn, 1212 Knoxville Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902
π (865) 408-8129
π° $3 advance / $5 at gate; children 12 and under free
πΆ Ages: All ages
The 13th Knox Asian Festival is Knoxville's largest celebration of Asian arts and cultures, returning Sunday, August 30, 2026 at World's Fair Park. The festival features food vendors, cultural activities, and performances representing 14 different Asian countries. Kids and families are encouraged...
Knoxville Childrenβs Theatre
π 747 Worldβs Fair Park Drive, Knoxville, TN 37902 (Theatre in the Park)
π (865) 208-3677
π° Current show (The Lion, the Witch, and The Wardrobe): ~$14β$18; prices vary by production
πΆ Ages: All ages (shows written for kids)
- Nonprofit theater for kids, by kids
- 10 productions/year incl. 3 musicals
- Acting classes and camps for kids
- Afternoon matinees
Knoxville Childrenβs Theatre (KCT) is an education-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that stages professional-quality plays for children, by children β every production is performed by young actors trained in KCTβs own classes and camps. The company produces about ten shows a year (including three...
Knoxville Museum of Art
π 1050 Worlds Fair Park Dr, Knoxville, TN 37916
π (865) 525-6101
π Tue-Sat 10 AM-5 PM, Sun 1-5 PM (closed Mon)
π° Free admission
πΆ Ages: All ages (children's programs for ages 3-12; teen workshops 13+)
The Knoxville Museum of Art (KMA) is one of the easiest "culture with kids" wins in the area β and it is completely free to walk in the door. Housed in a striking glass-front building right beside the World's Fair Park lawn, it's an easy 25-minute drive from Maryville and pairs great with a visit...
Little Ponderosa Zoo & Rescue
π 629 Granite Rd, Clinton, TN 37716
π (865) 457-5536
π Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12pm-5pm
π° $15 adults, $10 children/seniors, free under 2
πΆ Ages: All ages (great for toddlers and young kids)
Little Ponderosa Zoo & Rescue is East Tennessee New Title non-profit zoo, rescue, and rehabilitation facility in Clinton, TN β an easy 35-40 minute drive for Maryville families. Every visit supports the exotic animals who call the zoo home plus the native Tennessee wildlife that comes through...
Main Event Knoxville
π 9081 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37923
π (865) 351-5000
π Mon 11 AM-1 AM; Tue-Thu & Sun 11 AM-midnight; Fri 11 AM-2 AM; Sat 9 AM-2 AM
π° Pay-per-activity / packages (varies)
πΆ Ages: All ages (kid-friendly)
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Main Event is an all-in-one family entertainment center in Knoxville (~25 minutes from Maryville) where you can bowl, play 100+ arcade games, battle in a multi-level laser tag arena, and eat β all under one roof. It is a great pick for rainy days, weekend outings, birthday parties, and school...
Maple Lane Farms & Corn Maze
π 1126 Maple Lane, Greenback, TN 37742
π (865) 856-3511
π Open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, October 2-31, 2026; check the official event page for daily hours
π° Cash and credit card pricing available; check the official event page
πΆ Ages: All ages
- 8-acre corn maze
- Tractor-pulled hayrides
- Pumpkin patch and sunflower fields
- Inflatables and photo spots
- Food vendors and barn store
Maple Lane Farms hosts its 28th annual corn maze at 1126 Maple Lane in Greenback. The 2026 fall event runs Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from October 2 through October 31. The farm lists an 8-acre corn maze, tractor-pulled hayrides, a pumpkin patch, sunflower fields, inflatables, photo spots,...
Maryville Farmers Market
π Courthouse Lawn, Broadway & Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville, TN 37804
π (865) 268-9614
π° Free
πΆ Ages: All ages
The Maryville Farmers Market is a beloved community tradition held every Saturday from mid-April through mid-November at the Blount County Courthouse lawn on Broadway. Locally grown produce, handmade goods, artisan foods, and live music make this a perfect Saturday morning outing for families. Each...
π¨ Maryville Makers Market
π 825 Morningside Lane, Maryville, TN 37804
π° Free
πΆ Ages: All ages
- Free admission
- Kids activities
- Live music
- Food vendors
- 100+ makers
The Makers Market is a beloved open-air community event held at McArthur Pavilion on the Maryville College campus. Each gathering features 100+ local makers, artists, and artisans selling handcrafted goods, scratch-made baked items, fine art, and homegrown products. The spring event on Saturday,...
Museum of East Tennessee History (East Tennessee History Center)
π 601 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902
π (865) 215-8830
The Museum of East Tennessee History, inside the East Tennessee History Center in downtown Knoxville, is a kid-friendly history museum where families can explore the people, places, and events that shaped the region. Kids ages 16 and under get in free, which makes it an easy budget-friendly...
NASCAR SpeedPark Sevierville
π 1545 Parkway, Sevierville, TN 37862
π (865) 908-5500
π° From $44.99/person for unlimited day wristband
πΆ Ages: All ages (go-karts: 54" for solo; younger kids ride along)
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The official family fun park of NASCAR in Sevierville, voted the #1 go-kart track in the Smokies for eight years running. Spread across 25+ acres, it is one of the biggest go-kart parks in the area with up to seven different tracks, including the junior-friendly Baby Bristol for younger drivers and...
Pigeon Forge Gem Mine
π 2865 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
π (865) 453-4733
π Sun-Thu 9am-9pm; Fri-Sat 9am-10pm
π° Varies by mining bucket/experience β check current pricing
πΆ Ages: All ages
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Pigeon Forge Gem Mine is a family-owned gem mining attraction right on the Pigeon Forge Parkway β an easy, screen-free activity for kids of all ages. Guests sift through mining ore to find real gemstones like rubies, emeralds, and sapphires, and the staff walk you through how it works as a hands-on...
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
π 88 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
π (865) 430-8808
πΆ Ages: All ages
- shark tunnel
- penguin cove
- touch tanks
- sea turtle rescue
- family programs
A full-day trip to Gatlinburg that's worth it on its own β and only about an hour and a half drive from Maryville. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is one of the largest aquariums in the Southeast, with around 25,000 animals. Kids favorite exhibits include: Shark Lagoon & underwater tunnel β...
Sevier Air Trampoline & Ninja Warrior Park
π 266 Collier Dr, Sevierville, TN 37862
π (844) 443-8247
π SunβThu 10amβ8pm, Fri 10amβ9pm, Sat 10amβ10pm
π° Varies by pass/package β check current pricing on sevierair.com
πΆ Ages: All ages
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Sevier Air is a 38,000-square-foot indoor adventure park in Sevierville, about 45 minutes from Maryville up US-321 into the Smokies. It combines brand-new and advanced Ninja Warrior-style obstacle courses, wall-to-wall trampolines, a climbing wall, dodgeball courts, foam pits, tumble tracks, and a...
Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster (Pigeon Forge)
π 867 Wears Valley Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
π (865) 365-5000
π Mon-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-11pm, Sun 10am-10pm
π° Varies by age and time of day
πΆ Ages: Passengers from 38in; drivers 16+/56in+
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The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster bills itself as the longest downhill roller-coaster track in the United States β a sled-style coaster riders control themselves along a winding track through the woods above Pigeon Forge. It is a real thrill ride for older kids and adults, and younger children can...
Smoky Mountain Deer Farm and Exotic Petting Zoo
π 478 Happy Hollow Ln, Sevierville, TN 37876
π (865) 428-3337
π Daily 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
π° See website for current admission
πΆ Ages: All ages
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The Smoky Mountain Deer Farm is a family favorite stop near Sevierville, about a 40-minute drive from Maryville. Kids can walk among and hand-feed friendly deer, camels, zebras, goats, miniature horses, reindeer, emu, and more in a 140-acre barnyard setting. There is also an old-fashioned pony ride...
The Lost Sea Adventure
π 140 Lost Sea Road, Sweetwater, TN 37874
π (423) 337-6616
π Open daily except Thanksgiving and Christmas (tour times vary by season)
π° Adult $29.95, Child (4-12) $18.95, 3 & under free
πΆ Ages: All ages (boat ride and cave walk; strollers not recommended)
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America's largest underground lake is hidden 140 feet below the foothills of the Smokies, and the guided tour here is a bucket-list outing for adventurous families. The 3/4-mile round-trip walk through Craighead Caverns takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes and ends with a boat ride across the lake...
The Tennessee Theatre
π 604 South Gay Street, Knoxville, TN 37902
π (865) 684-1200
π Box office and event times vary; check website for showtimes
π° Varies by event; family film series and Mighty Musical Monday are budget-friendly
πΆ Ages: Family-friendly; best for ages 5+
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A beautifully restored historic movie palace in downtown Knoxville that is surprisingly kid-friendly. Beyond the adult concerts and Broadway shows, the Tennessee Theatre runs family programming all year β including the classic Mighty Musical Monday series (free weekday organ recitals), family film...
Tuckaleechee Caverns
π 825 Cavern Rd, Townsend, TN 37882
π (865) 448-2274
π Open 7 days a week seasonally: Mar 10am-5pm, Apr-Oct 10am-6pm, Nov 10am-5pm (closed in winter)
π° Adults about $14 (verify current pricing); reduced kids' rate
πΆ Ages: All ages (good for elementary-age kids and up)
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One of the most renowned underground adventures in the Smokies, Tuckaleechee Caverns in nearby Townsend is a family-friendly cave tour that even young kids can handle. It's earned AAA's exclusive Five Star Gem attraction rating and is billed as part of the "greatest site under the Smokies." What...
π¨ Watercolor in the Woods with C. Finley Art
π 1406 Wilkinson Pike, Maryville, TN 37803
π (865) 981-9800
π April 24-25, 2026 (Friday 3pm - Saturday 11am)
π° See website for pricing
πΆ Ages: All skill levels welcome
Beloved local artist Chuck Finley is back at RT Lodge for another watercolor retreat this spring. Whether you're a seasoned painter or picking up a brush for the first time, this weekend retreat is the perfect chance to slow down, spark your creativity, and create something beautiful surrounded by...
Women's Basketball Hall of Fame
π 700 S Hall of Fame Dr, Knoxville, TN 37915
π (865) 633-9000
π Tue-Sat 10 AM-5 PM (closed Sun & Mon)
π° $7.95 adults; $5.95 seniors & children; children under 5 FREE; free parking
πΆ Ages: All ages (children under 5 free)
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The Women's Basketball Hall of Fame (WBHOF) in Knoxville is the only museum in the world dedicated to the history of all levels of women's basketball β and it's refreshingly kid-friendly. Kids get in FREE under age 5, and everyone can shoot around in the interactive exhibits. Walk through the...
Zoo Knoxville
π 3500 Knoxville Zoo Dr, Knoxville, TN 37914
π (865) 637-5331
πΆ Ages: All ages (under 2 free)
- Giraffe encounters
- Camel rides
- Carousel
- Splash zone
- Zoo Choo Train
Zoo Knoxville is a year-round, AZA-accredited zoo on 53 wooded acres in Knoxville, home to more than 1,500 animals across 200 species. Kids get face-to-face time with Malayan tigers, giraffe encounters, camel rides, a classic carousel, and a splash zone, plus the Zoo Choo Train β a little train...
π Blount County Farmers' Market
π 200 E Broadway Ave, Downtown Maryville, TN 37804
π (865) 268-9614
π Saturdays, April 18 β November 14, 2026
π° Free admission (pay for what you buy)
πΆ Ages: All ages
- Producer-only market (every vendor grows or makes their own products)
- Open-air pavilion with parking
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Special craft activities on opening Saturdays
- Monthly craft days: May 16, June 20, July 18, August 15
Okay, real talk: the Blount County Farmers' Market is my Saturday morning religion. πβ¨ If you've been to other farmer's markets in the county, you might think, "Oh, same thing, right?" But this one is producer-only, which means every single vendor actually grows or makes their products. No...
π΄σ §σ ’σ ³σ £σ ΄σ Ώ Smoky Mountain Scottish Festival & Games 2026
π 7930 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882
π 8 AM - 5 PM daily
π° $35 two-day pass, $25 Saturday, $18 Sunday. Children 15 and under FREE. Discounted rates for first responders, seniors, veterans, active duty military, and students with ID.
πΆ Ages: All ages - family friendly
- 44th annual celebration of Scottish, Irish & Celtic culture
- Live music on three stages (Celtic rock, traditional Gaelic folk)
- Highland athletics & heavy stone competitions
- Piping & drumming competitions
- Highland & Irish dance performances
Scotland in the Smokies is calling! π΄σ §σ ’σ ³σ £σ ΄σ Ώ This is Tennessee's oldest festival of Scottish, Irish and Celtic culture, and it's back for its 44th year in 2026. Just outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Townsend, this weekend celebration brings together families for an authentic taste...
πΈ Steve Kaufman's Acoustic Kamp 2026
π Maryville College, 502 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville, TN 37801
π Two weeks: June 14-20, 2026 (Old Time & Traditional Week) & June 21-27, 2026 (Bluegrass Week)
π° See website for registration details
πΆ Ages: All ages and skill levels welcome
- World-class instructors
- Multiple instruments: guitar, banjo, fiddle, mandolin, bass, dobro, dulcimer
- Songwriting & vocals classes
- Daily jams & evening open mic
- Kamp Koncerts
If you've got a musician in the family (or you ARE the musician), this is THE summer camp to know about. Steve Kaufman's Acoustic Kamp has been running for 30 years and is widely considered one of the best acoustic music camps in the world. The Kamp runs for two consecutive weeks at Maryville...
π Emancipation Day Celebration
π 209 E. Franklin Street, Alcoa, TN 37701
π Saturday, August 8, 2026, 4:00-7:00 PM
π° Free admission
πΆ Ages: All ages
- Food trucks
- Face painting
- Educational programs
- Vendors
- Cultural celebration
The MLK Jr. Community Center is hosting their annual Emancipation Day Celebration, and this is such a meaningful community event. Emancipation Day commemorates when slaves were set free in Tennessee and Kentucky, and this celebration brings the community together to honor that history while having...
πΊ Hops in the Hills Craft Beer Festival
π Maryville Greenway Amphitheater, Maryville, TN
π June 13, 2026 - All day festival
π° Festival price includes tastings, food, official event t-shirt
πΆ Ages: 21+
- Sample regional craft beer from area's best breweries
- Live music
- Food available
- Scenic Smoky Mountain backdrop
- Games and lounging area
Alright, listen up, mama friends. We need to have a real talk for a minute. This is an adult event. I mean it. It's 21+ for a reason. No kids, no exceptions, no "but they're so small." But here's the thing - I love that this exists for us. For me. For us moms who want to remember we're people...
π» Knoxville Symphony Orchestra Outdoor Concert at Theatre in the Park
π Theatre in the Park, Greenbelt, Maryville, TN
π (865) 525-1111
π Thursday, May 26, 2026 at 7:30 PM
π° Free admission
πΆ Ages: All ages, family-friendly
- Free outdoor concert
- Family-friendly
- Bring a blanket or lawn chair
- Sponsored by Aubrey's Restaurant, Clayton Homes, Hickory Construction
Looking for a beautiful spring evening activity that won't break the bank? The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra brings their music to the Greenbelt for a FREE outdoor concert that's perfect for families! What to expect: This is a family-friendly outdoor symphony performance under the stars. The concert...
π΅ Maryville College Spring Concerts 2026
π Clayton Center for the Arts, 305 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville, TN 37801
π (865) 983-5300
π April 2026 - Multiple dates (see below)
π° Free (except Orchestra concert: $12.50 + tax)
πΆ Ages: All ages - family-friendly
- Student performances
- Free concerts
- Family-friendly
- Indoor venue
- Educational experience
As a homeschooling mom who believes in the power of live music and arts education, I'm thrilled about the incredible slate of spring concerts happening right here in Maryville! The Maryville College music programs are putting on some wonderful performances at the Clayton Center, and the best part?...
β°οΈ Mountain Challenge - Blount County Parks & Rec
π 100 Civic Center Dr, Maryville, TN 37804
π (865) 983-9244
π Wednesdays, April 1 - April 29, 2026 (10 sessions total)
π° $75 per session
πΆ Ages: Youth programs
- 60-foot alpine climbing tower
- Mental and physical challenges
- Partner with Maryville College
- Step outside your comfort zone
Looking for a spring activity that'll give your kids (and maybe you!) a real sense of accomplishment? The Mountain Challenge is Blount County Parks & Rec's partnership with Maryville College's Mountain Challenge program, and it's exactly the kind of outdoor adventure that builds confidence and...
ποΈ Outlandish Adventure Festival 2026
π 2915 Island Home Ave, Knoxville, TN 37920
π (865) 577-4717
π May 1-2, 2026, 7am-10pm
π° Free admission
πΆ Ages: All ages
- High slacklining over quarry
- Bike whip-off stunts
- Rock climbing competition
- Kayak flatwater freestyle
- SUP sprint races
Get ready for some serious outdoor fun! The Outlandish Adventure Festival is back for 2026, and it's going to be even bigger than last year's inaugural event. This is Knoxville's celebration of all things outdoors - rocks, trails, rivers, and that wild spirit that makes our region so special. Ijams...
π Rutherford's Farm
π 3337 Mint Rd, Maryville, TN 37803
π (865) 518-1311
π Saturday 8am-8pm; Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8am-1pm & 4pm-8pm (Spring hours - check for updates)
π° Vary by crop - check website or call
πΆ Ages: All ages
- Family-owned since 1976
- You-pick strawberries
- Fresh broccoli, cabbage, onions
- Locally grown produce
- Appalachian Grown certified
Okay, so my kids have been bugging me for strawberries since mid-April hit, and I finally found the real deal right here in Maryville. Rutherford's Farm has been a family-run operation since 1976 (can you believe that?!), and they're just down Mint Road not even five minutes from our house. The...
πͺ World's Fair Park
π 100 World's Fair Park Dr, Knoxville, TN 37916
πΆ Ages: All ages
Home to Knoxville's Largest Kids' Party (annual event since 2015!), plus regular family events, concerts, and activities. The park features playgrounds, walking paths, and hosts numerous family-friendly festivals throughout the year. Worth the drive to Knoxville!
πΈ The Shed Smokehouse & Juke Joint
π 1820 W Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville, TN 37801
π (865) 724-0220
Live music venue featuring local and regional artists. They host family-friendly concerts and events throughout the year. Great spot for experiencing the local music scene and supporting Tennessee talent.
π Downtown Maryville Holiday Events
π Court Square, Downtown Maryville, TN 37804
π November - December
π° Mostly free
πΆ Ages: All ages
Downtown Maryville transforms into a winter wonderland with holiday lights, tree lighting ceremonies, Santa visits, and festive markets. The Clayton Center for the Arts hosts seasonal performances. Many local businesses participate in holiday events and special promotions for families.
π΅ Live Music at Peaceful Side Brewery
π 106 Everett Ave, Maryville, TN 37804
π Every Saturday, 6-9pm, year-round
π° Free admission
πΆ Ages: All ages (family-friendly early; adults later)
- Local artists performing
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Outdoor patio seating
- Food menu includes burgers, tenders, salads
Here's a Maryville mom hack: every Saturday night from 6-9pm, Peaceful Side Brewery features local artists playing live music. And yes, this is genuinely family-friendly (at least the earlier slots!) - I've brought my kids multiple times when they were younger. The brewery has a great outdoor patio...
π΅ Free Live Music Saturdays
π Court Square, Downtown Maryville, TN 37804
π Every Saturday, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
π° Free
πΆ Ages: All ages
Free live music featuring local artists every Saturday evening! It's a great way to wind down the weekend, enjoy some community vibes, and maybe grab dinner nearby. The music is usually acoustic and family-friendly. Perfect for a casual evening out when you want to stretch your legs after a week of...
More verified recommendations coming soon! Know a spot that belongs here? Let us know.