Photo: Philip “Phil” Haurez
Photo: Kristen Hayes
Photo: Crystal Chesser
Zoo Knoxville
★4.5(12,319 reviews)$$Zoo
🕑 3-4 hours for a full visit, or 2 hours if focusing on favorite exhibits👶 Perfect for all ages, from toddlers to teens. Little ones (ages 2-5) love the splash pad and petting areas, elementary-aged kids (6-10) enjoy the interactive animal encounters and playground areas, while older children and teens appreciate the educational programs and more exotic animals like big cats and primates.🧡 Saved by 70+ families
About
Zoo Knoxville is an award-winning destination featuring over 800 animals from around the world, offering families an incredible mix of close-up animal encounters, interactive experiences, and a refreshing splash pad. With consistently high ratings from thousands of visitors, this zoo stands out for its engaging educational programs and well-designed exhibits that keep kids entertained while learning about wildlife conservation.
Highlights
- ✓Over 800 animals including elephants, red pandas, penguins, and big cats
- ✓Interactive splash pad perfect for cooling off on hot days
- ✓Hands-on animal encounters and daily keeper talks
- ✓Clayton Family Kids Cove with playground and smaller animal exhibits designed for young children
- ✓Award-winning Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Center
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right at opening (9:00 AM) when animals are most active and crowds are lightest,many animals rest in shaded areas by midday, especially in summer
- 2.Pack swimsuits and towels for the splash pad, which is a lifesaver on hot Tennessee days and gives kids a perfect energy break mid-visit
- 3.Download the zoo map ahead of time and plan your route around the animal feeding times and keeper talks for the best educational experience
- 4.Bring a wagon or stroller even for older kids,the zoo covers hilly terrain and little legs tire quickly
- 5.Visit on weekday mornings during the school year for the smallest crowds and more personal interactions with zookeepers
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings in spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) for comfortable weather, active animals, and fewer crowds. Weekends and summer can be busy and hot, though the splash pad makes summer visits still enjoyable.
What to Know
The zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM with admission prices varying by age (check website for current rates). On-site parking is available, and while outside food is allowed, there are also dining options throughout the park. The terrain includes hills, so wear comfortable walking shoes.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with consistent hours. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for walking. The splash pad typically operates Memorial Day through Labor Day. Check their website for special seasonal events like Boo at the Zoo (fall) and Zoo Lights holiday celebration (winter).
Nearby Eats
Aubrey's Restaurant (family-friendly with kids' menu, 10 minutes away) and Calhoun's on the River (casual BBQ with outdoor seating and river views, 15 minutes away) are both great options for a post-zoo meal.
More Activities Near Knoxville
Restaurant
Incredible Pizza Company
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Incredible Pizza Company in Knoxville is a one-stop family entertainment destination that combines an all-you-can-eat pizza buffet with an exciting arcade and indoor play areas. Parents love the convenience of dining and entertainment under one roof, while kids enjoy unlimited pizza, games, and play structures that keep them entertained for hours without having to travel between multiple venues.
Park
Bearden Park Circle
Free
Bearden Park Circle is a well-kept neighborhood gem in Knoxville that offers families a peaceful setting for outdoor play and exercise. With its combination of playgrounds, tennis courts, and walking trails, it's perfect for active families looking for a relaxed afternoon of recreation without the crowds of larger parks.
Farm
CW Farms Petting Zoo
★5.0$❤️21
CW Farms Petting Zoo offers an authentic working farm experience where kids can get up close with friendly animals, enjoy tractor-pulled hayrides through the property, and participate in hands-on agricultural learning. With generous operating hours from 8 AM to 10 PM daily, this charming farm venue provides families flexibility to visit when it works best for their schedule while experiencing real farm life in the Knoxville area.
Activity
UT Gardens Knoxville
★4.8$❤️22
UT Gardens Knoxville offers families a wonderful escape into nature right on the University of Tennessee campus. With easy walking paths perfect for strollers, colorful seasonal displays that change throughout the year, and plenty of open spaces for kids to explore safely, it's an ideal spot for introducing children to gardening, botany, and outdoor discovery without the pressure of a formal museum setting.