When you're trying to figure out what to do with a teenager in Knoxville, the struggle is real. You need somewhere that’s high-energy enough to burn off steam, but "cool" enough to actually make it onto their Instagram story. 

Luckily, Knoxville isn't just a college town—it’s an outdoor playground with a serious personality. From the rugged trails of the Urban Wilderness to the neon lights of the Old City, here is the ultimate Knoxville bucket list for teens that will actually get them out of the house. (For our top 10 kid list, click here.) 

The quick downlow: for a day that actually wins points, take them to Navitat for high-flying ziplining, Ijams Nature Center for a quarry swim, or Market Square for world-class people-watching. If they’re gamers, Token Game Tavern is a must-do, while Maple Hall offers an underground, boutique bowling vibe that feels way more like a lounge than a typical alley. 

 

What to do with teens outdoors?

If your teen has a literal "fear of missing out" on adventure, Navitat Canopy Adventures is the cure. Tucked inside Ijams Nature Center, this isn't just a walk in the woods—it's a massive aerial obstacle course with ziplines and bridges suspended high in the trees. This one is good for anyone 7 and up, but teens especially will appreciate the progressively challenging courses. Give them their space, or try to see the obstacles from their point of view – how will they solve the ‘puzzle in the trees’?

Pro Tip: Check out their "Glow" nights. Navigating the forest canopy under neon lights with music pumping is a total rite of passage for Knoxville teens. 

The Challenge: With 60+ obstacles, it’s a great way for them to burn off energy while testing their balance (and their nerves). 

 

Where is the Best place in Knoxville for Teen Photography? 

Strong Alley (affectionately called Graffiti Alley) is the gold standard for the 'gram. Tucked between Gay Street and Market Square, it’s filled with ever-changing murals that make for the perfect backdrop. For a classic panoramic shot, the Sunsphere observation deck offers a 360-degree view of the city and the Smoky Mountains. Help them up their TikTok game with some mural-hunting. We have so many murals in every part of the city that you might need a couple of excursions to check them all off your list. Let them teach you how to use that selfie stick, filters on Snapchat, and encourage each other with creative poses outdoors in the natural light!

 

High Scores and Chill Vibes: Token & Maple Hall 

Sometimes you just need a place to hang out that doesn't feel like a "kids' zone" or a library. 

Token Game Tavern: Try as you might to get the kids outside, sometimes it’s just not gonna happen. For days like these, head to Token Game Tavern, where you can beat them at Pac-Man and they can beat you at, well, nothing – you’re the pinball wizard! This place is a neon-soaked dream for anyone into retro arcade games, pinball, or nerd culture. It’s got a great atmosphere that hits that sweet spot between 80s nostalgia and modern cool. 

Maple Hall:  If all of your bowling experiences have been in dilapidated alleys with mystery nacho cheese, stale hot dogs, and the lingering smell of Marlboro, it’s time to see bowling in a whole new light. Maple Hall is Knoxville’s downtown boutique bowling alley. With only 11 lanes and set below street level on Gay Street, right off the bat (lane?) you’ll feel like you’ve tapped into a whole new sport. Their food is unexpected and they can really craft a cocktail for the 21+ set.

 

Hit the Trails in the Urban Wilderness: Hiking, Mountain Biking, Paddling, and More 

Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness is 1,000 acres of pure adrenaline just minutes from downtown. It’s a massive point of pride for the 865. 

Why Teens Love It: If they’re into mountain biking, Baker Creek Preserve is the destination. It features a world-class "pump track" and downhill trails like Devil's Racetrack that are perfect for GoPro footage. It's fast, dusty, and a total blast. Riversports Outfitters rents kayaks and stand up paddleboards in Mead’s Quarry at Ijams. If you and your teens are newer to getting out on the water, the quarry is perfect with no current to rock the boat.

 

 

Where can I see a show or concert with my teen in Knoxville?

The Tennessee Theatre has something year-round for everyone to enjoy. I mean, whose kids didn't go through that phase of singing the entire Hamilton soundtrack for weeks on end!?  Musicals are where it’s at, and the Theatre’s Broadway shows typically start in December. For the summer, plan on catching some films of your childhood with Summer Movie Magic. 

 

Where can my teen and I learn something together in Knoxville?

The East Tennessee History Center or a visit to a Historic House Museum are great places for teenagers! We know you read that one and are thinking, was this really written for teens? Hear us out! The ETHC has things that might surprise you. From seeing a replica pharmacy (just promise them a visit to the Phoenix Pharmacy afterwards) to one of Dolly's dresses, there are lots of artifacts that might open up a conversation.

Maybe you've got an older teen who is looking forward to voting, you can share with them that East Tennessee played a major role in women's suffrage. Make sure you look at the letter from Febb Burn to her son inside (always listen to your mother!), then see the statue outside behind the center. 

If your kid is interested in family history and learning about their ancestors or where they came from, be sure to head up to the McClung Collection on the third floor to learn your family's genealogy together.

And if your teen finds the past boring (or you, we get it, high school history was rough), maybe entice them with something more salacious than the latest TikTok influencer scandal. Look no further than Mabry Hazen House, one of Knoxville's Historic House Museums. The short version is socialite woman meets man, man leads her on for 15 years, she SUES HIM for "breech of contract!" You'll have to plan a visit to see how that one unraveled!

This are just a few ideas - but follow their interest and see where their curiosity leads you!

 

What events can I attend with my teen in Knoxville?

Knoxville is a festival-loving town with over 80 events annually. Experience a different culture, try new cuisine, or make your best guess at what genre that band falls into at Big Ears. If you don't want to wait for a specific date, consider taking a tour together! From guided tours to self-guided tours, from food to history to ghosts – we have something for everyone. Stay in the car, get out and do a scavenger hunt, or even cruise down the Tennessee River. Options abound! 

Hope this gives you some ideas on how to plan a trip to Knoxville with your teen(s)!  Get more ideas here!