We shared our 2019 Holiday Gift Guide and thought we’d give you a few more creative ideas. Many of Knoxville’s attractions have gift shops – think of it like a two for one – you get to enjoy an outing and do some Christmas shopping all at once! (In the voice of Chandler Bing) could it BE any easier? Read on for some ideas on places to visit AND get your holiday shopping done in a hurry!
1. Visit Knoxville Visitors Center
Shameless plug, but truthfully our own gift shop is a great place to stop! Get all the information you need on exploring our city, come at noon and hear some live music on WDVX Blue Plate Special, and pick up souvenirs for a memorable trip. If you enjoyed the Ken Burns Country Music documentary on PBS this past fall, be sure to look for items including CDs, DVDs, and the accompanying book. Shop from the comfort of your couch here.
2.Knoxville Museum of Art
The Knoxville Museum of Art has a fantastic gift shop on their second floor – it’s next to the outside patio with a great view of the Sunsphere. You’re sure to find the perfect gift for anyone on your list, and many items are even made by local artisans. Explore their rotating exhibits on the main floor first, then head downstairs to see an incredible glass and steel installation by Richard Jolley. Burn off those holiday meal calories and hoof up to the second floor and see the contemporary art exhibit (to the right) and the East Tennessee artist exhibit (to the left).
3. Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame
Calling all Lady Vols lovers! This gift shop has a variety of sportswear for all ages and memorabilia too. If you ‘back Pat’, you’ll find the perfect item here, or shop online. And speaking of burning holiday meal calories, did you know the WBHOF has a court in the center of their museum to shoot hoops? Kids of all ages (and mom and dad too!) will love a little friendly competition.
4. Zoo Knoxville
Got kiddos on your list? They can never have too many stuffed animals – especially when they resemble specific ones like Georgie the Gibbon or Arya the Malayan Tiger! Zoo Knoxville is also known as the Red Panda capital of the world due to their success in breeding these cute critters. If you’re on the hunt for a gift for the older crowd, consider a cute animal tote they can use to reduce plastic grocery bags. Trying to reduce the ‘stuff’ in your life? Consider ‘adopt an animal’, where you can support the zoo’s efforts in caring for loveable creatures.
5. East Tennessee History Center
Regional crafts, jewelry, and children’s items await at the History Center. Spend the afternoon learning about this incredibly unique region of the United States and pick up a few gifts when you’re done! Shop online here.
6. Tennessee Theatre
Tickets to a show, Jack Neely’s stunning book of this grand entertainment palace, or a limited-edition ornament? It’s a tough choice and we’re glad we don’t have to make it. Good luck.
7. The Muse
A great way to wear out those kiddos and sneak in a quick gift or two while they’re getting their STEAM on. They can experience all kinds of wonderful hands-on exhibits for them to explore science and art in the same building.
8. McClung Museum
This FREE museum is a Smithsonian Affiliate on the campus of the University of Tennessee. Enjoy exhibits on science, natural history, and more. There’s even a mummy – the kids will be stunned silent (at least for a moment)! You’ll want to visit again and again with their rotating exhibits, and pick up a gift that will continue to inspire the love of learning.
9. Farragut Museum
History buffs unite! This FREE museum in west Knoxville has a gift shop rich in the book department, especially Civil War-related works. “Full speed ahead” to the sales!
10. Ijams
An easy choice for the outdoors lover, Ijams carries a great selection of items for your little explorer. Support this FREE nature center and have an adventure while you’re there! Some trails are stroller and pet friendly so you can bring the whole fam. In warmer months, enjoy kayaking and stand-up paddling in Mead’s Quarry, or for more adventurous folks you can even go rock climbing or mountain bike Devil’s Racetrack! Learn more here about this gem of the Urban Wilderness.
Hope this puts you in the spirit and helps spread the holiday cheer! Don’t forget to check out our 2019 Gift Guide!
