Built for the 1982 World’s Fair, the Sunsphere is a one-of-a-kind structure. The 4th Floor Observation Deck offers a breathtaking 360-degree view stretching from downtown to the Great Smoky Mountains including World’s Fair Park, the Tennessee River, and the University of Tennessee Campus. A 1982 World’s Fair timeline, gallery, memorabilia, and gift shop await visitors.
NOTICE: The Sunsphere Observation Deck is closed 1:30-2:30 for an employee meal break.
Sunsphere Hours
Monday - Friday: 10am - 5pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 12pm - 4pm NOTICE: The Sunsphere Observation Deck is closed 1:30-2:30 for an employee meal break.
Location
810 Clinch Avenue, Knoxville, TN, USA
Parking
PLEASE NOTE: There is NO parking directly by the Sunsphere. We are located inside World’s Fair Park. Please plan your parking before coming for your reservation. We suggest the Knoxville Museum of Art’s Public Parking Lot or Locust St. Garage.
Purchase tickets online and wait for your reservation time at the base. An associate will come down to take you up. Failure to arrive on time may forfeit your reservation.
What if I am late for my reservation?
Please call the Sunsphere at (865) 314-0660. We can arrange to bring you up late, reschedule your reservation time or help answer any other questions you may have.
Can my tickets be refunded?
We are unfortunately unable to refund tickets. Please make sure you plan accordingly and with this in mind. We can always try to arrange a different reservation time or day for you. All ticket proceeds go towards The Sunsphere Fund. A fund set up to enhance the building and history of the Sunsphere.
Why do I have to pay now? It used to be free.
The 4th level observation deck was a free experience until COVID in 2020. The deck was closed and plans to reopen it were not certain. Visit Knoxville stepped in to make sure the Sunsphere can still be enjoyed by visitors and locals. Your $5 admission price goes towards The Sunsphere Fund. Click here to learn more.
Where do I park?
The Sunsphere is located within World’s Fair Park and DOES NOT offer any on-site parking. Please see our Parking Guide for all of your options. We personally suggest the Knoxville Museum of Art’s Public Parking lot or Locust Street Garage. If you need further help please call us directly: (865) 314-0660
Is there a restaurant in the Sunsphere?
There is currently NO restaurant located in the Sunsphere.
Can I book a private tour?
Private Tours are offered ahead of time. Please check our Private Tour page for more information or to send in a request.
Can I host an event?
We are NOT an event space. If you are looking for the event floors please contact Sunsphere Events at (865) 922-8787.
I’ve got my dog with me, can I bring them up?
ONLY service animals are allowed in the Sunsphere. Pets are not permitted even if tickets have already been purchased.
I’m wet from the splash pad nearby, can I still come up?
You will NOT be allowed up if you are wet from swimming or the nearby splash pad. The Sunsphere is a historic observation tower and is treated as a museum. Please plan your reservation time BEFORE going to enjoy the splash pads.
I bought my tickets for the wrong date or time, can I get a refund?
Call the Sunsphere at: (865) 314-0660. We can transfer your reservation date/time. If you are unable to attend a different date or time we will NOT be able to refund your tickets.
Please note: Please email ehaynie@knoxville.org to have your reservation time switched to a date and time we are open. If you are unable to arrive on a different date or time there will still be NO refund issued.
Why can’t I book between 1:30-2:30?
The Sunsphere is closed between 1:30 - 2:30 to provide our staff with a lunch hour. No tours can be booked during this time.
