Where else can a child launch a rocket, explore the wonders of science, and learn through play all in the same day? At Muse, curiosity takes center stage. As Knoxville’s only children's science museum, Muse inspires and empowers young minds through hands-on, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) learning experiences that encourage a lifelong love of discovery. 

Whether exploring interactive exhibits, experiencing Knoxville’s only public access planetarium, or participating in engaging weekly programs, every visit to Muse offers new opportunities for fun!

 

At Muse Knoxville, everyone is welcome! Our exhibits, programs, and activities are designed to be inclusive and accessible, ensuring that every child and family can fully participate in the learning experience. There’s a membership option for every household! Many memberships include additional benefits, such as reciprocal admission to participating museums and discounted membership rates for families receiving EBT, WIC, or TennCare benefits.

Muse offers several engaging programs each week that are included with admission! From STEAM Sprouts and Mess Makers to Rhythm & Muse and Tech Time, there’s always something new to explore. STEAM Sprouts introduces young learners to hands-on activities designed to spark curiosity and encourage exploration. Mess Makers invites children to dive into sensory and process-based art experiences that celebrate creativity—and Muse handles the cleanup! Rhythm & Muse gets little ones moving through music, rhythm, and interactive play, while Tech Time encourages children to explore technology through hands-on experiences with a variety of tools and devices. 

Grown-ups can have fun too! Kiddos always have the most fun when their grown-ups join in on the fun! Seeing parents, grandparents, and older siblings engage with children and witness their “a-ha” moments through the hands-on fun at Muse is beautiful! Muse offers an environment in which parents can be playmates and co-discoverers with their little ones, even if just for the afternoon.

Muse Knoxville offers a wide variety of educational programs and experiences!

● Seasonal Camps
● Birthday Parties
● Field Trips
● Family Engagement Nights
● School-Based Learning Programs
● Family Access Memberships
● Weekly Programs
● Mobile Planetarium Experiences
● Knoxville’s Only Public-Access Planetarium
● And So Much More!

Muse is committed to supporting the next generation of learners and leaders. Through workforce development initiatives like the MAP (Muse Apprenticeship Program) and Ambassador Program, Muse provides students with hands-on learning, mentorship, and career-readiness experiences, helping build confidence, workplace skills, and pathways to future success while strengthening Muse’s impact throughout the Knoxville community.

Muse Knoxville is entering an exciting new chapter! Muse is embarking on a major expansion that reflects both growing community demand and a bold vision for the future. Expanding from 10,000 to 57,000 square feet, the museum will be able to welcome more families, create more space for exploration, learning, and play, and accommodate up to four times as many school groups and homeschool learners. As Muse grows, it is also expanding its reach to engage tweens, teens, and lifelong learners, creating a more intergenerational experience while remaining committed to its core mission of hands-on, play-based learning. More than a physical expansion, this project represents an investment in the future of East Knoxville and the broader community–creating greater opportunities for wonder, discovery, and joyful learning for generations to come. Through a transformative partnership with the City of Knoxville, the unprecedented $25 million commitment from the Clayton Family Foundation, and several other community partners/stakeholders, this vision is becoming a reality, and it will take all of us to build this dream!

General admission is $12 for guests ages 1-64, with reduced-cost admission available for seniors, educators, and military families. Children under one and Muse members receive free admission, and every admission also includes unlimited planetarium shows during your visit. Families can also enjoy free monthly Family Nights, which provide an opportunity for the community to experience Muse at no cost, as well as Sensory Nights, specially designed for children with autism, sensory processing differences, and other special needs.

 

This post was written by Malena Pierce, Marketing and Communications Manager at Muse Knoxville, 2026