McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture Knoxville
Discover fossils, ancient Egypt, and local history at Knoxville's free McClung Museum. A peaceful gem on the UT campus.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture Knoxville
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover fossils, ancient Egypt, and local history at Knoxville's free McClung Museum. A peaceful gem on the UT campus.
"A small but pleasant museum, quiet with almost no people, perfect for peaceful exploration."
🎯 Free Admission & Parking
Enjoy this gem for free! Parking is also complimentary, though check for nearby construction. :parking:
⏰ Quick & Informative Visit
Perfect for a 1-1.5 hour visit. Exhibits rotate, so there's always something new to see. :clockfacethree:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Egyptian Hall
Egyptian Hall
Marvel at artifacts and displays from ancient Egypt, a captivating glimpse into a bygone civilization.
Fossil & Dinosaur Displays
Natural History Exhibits
Explore impressive fossils and learn about the evolution of life, from ancient creatures to human development.

Karl Appel: Cats Exhibit
Special Exhibits
Discover a vibrant collection of feline-inspired art, showcasing the playful and artistic side of cats.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission & Parking
Exhibit Rotation & Space
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission & Parking
Enjoy this gem for free! Parking is also complimentary, though check for nearby construction. :parking:
⏰ Quick & Informative Visit
Perfect for a 1-1.5 hour visit. Exhibits rotate, so there's always something new to see. :clockfacethree:
🐱 Feline Art Fun
Don't miss the 'Karl Appel: Cats!' exhibit for a dose of artistic charm and playful felines. :cat:
🏛️ College Study Spot
A beloved spot for UT students to study and find inspiration. :mortar_board:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission & Parking
Enjoy this gem for free! Parking is also complimentary, though check for nearby construction. :parking:
⏰ Quick & Informative Visit
Perfect for a 1-1.5 hour visit. Exhibits rotate, so there's always something new to see. :clockfacethree:
🐱 Feline Art Fun
Don't miss the 'Karl Appel: Cats!' exhibit for a dose of artistic charm and playful felines. :cat:
🏛️ College Study Spot
A beloved spot for UT students to study and find inspiration. :mortar_board:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the McClung Museum for its free admission and parking, offering a peaceful and informative experience. While compact, the curated exhibits on natural history and culture, including ancient Egypt and fossils, are well-presented and engaging. Some wish for more space and interactivity, but its accessibility and thoughtful displays make it a worthwhile visit.
"It's a small but pleasant museum. It's quiet, and there are almost no people, so you can explore the exhibits in peace. The museum is free!"
Aleksei Plotnikov
"Free visit and parking, a fun way to kill 30 minutes and look at some very unique items. I went during the week and got my tickets online in advance. This was a completely free experience and only a hand full of people were there. A few cool things to look at, I would maybe come back when they rotate to another collection."
Jazmine Blakeman
"Very fun and informative experience especially since you pay no money to tour. They have multiple exhibitions and even classrooms in the building. Very cool for any History or Culture geek."
Shane Miracle
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The McClung Museum is located on the University of Tennessee, Knoxville campus. It's easily accessible by car, and parking is typically free. Be aware of potential construction in the area that might affect access.
Yes, parking is generally free and available near the museum. However, recent reviews mention ongoing construction that could impact parking availability or access.
While specific bus routes can vary, the University of Tennessee campus is served by local public transportation. It's advisable to check with Knoxville's public transit authority for the most current routes and schedules.
The museum is situated on the University of Tennessee campus. Using a campus map or GPS with the museum's address should help you navigate directly to its location.
Major routes like I-40 and I-75 will get you close to Knoxville. From there, follow signs for the University of Tennessee campus. Specific directions can be found on the museum's official website or by using GPS.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture is completely free! This makes it an accessible and enjoyable experience for everyone.
The museum's hours can vary, so it's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on operating hours and any special holiday closures.
Since admission is free, advance booking is not required. You can typically walk in during operating hours.
Typically, all exhibits at the McClung Museum are included with the free general admission. Special exhibits are usually part of the regular museum experience.
As the museum offers free admission, there are no discounts or passes needed. It's a wonderful free attraction for all visitors.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The museum features diverse exhibits on local geology, fossils, ancient Egypt, human evolution, and rotating special collections like 'Karl Appel: Cats!'.
Most visitors find that 1 to 1.5 hours is sufficient to explore the museum's collections thoroughly. It's a great option for a shorter outing.
Yes, the museum offers engaging displays that can interest children, with some interactive elements and a creative space for art contributions.
While some exhibits offer interactive elements, the museum is primarily focused on displays. They are working on expanding interactive spaces.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage regarding flash photography or restrictions in certain areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The McClung Museum itself does not have an on-site cafe or restaurant. However, being on the University of Tennessee campus, there are numerous dining options nearby.
The University of Tennessee campus and the surrounding downtown Knoxville area offer a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to suit all tastes and budgets.
Typically, museums discourage outside food and drinks in exhibit areas to preserve the displays. It's best to consume them outside the museum.
The University of Tennessee campus has green spaces and courtyards that might be suitable for a picnic. Check campus maps for designated areas.
Knoxville has a growing culinary scene with Southern comfort food, farm-to-table restaurants, and diverse international cuisine. Exploring the Market Square area is a good bet.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed inside the McClung Museum. However, always look for signs indicating any restrictions, especially regarding flash photography.
The Ancient Egyptian Hall offers dramatic artifacts, while the 'Karl Appel: Cats!' exhibit provides colorful and dynamic subjects. Fossil displays also make for striking shots.
While personal use is usually fine, commercial photography or professional shoots might require prior permission. It's best to err on the side of caution and inquire if you plan extensive filming or photography.
Exhibit lighting varies. Some areas are well-lit for viewing, while others might have more atmospheric or focused lighting. Be prepared to adjust your camera settings accordingly.
Tripods and selfie sticks are often restricted in museums to prevent accidental damage to exhibits and to ensure a comfortable experience for all visitors. Check the museum's policy before your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the museum is not overly large, it offers enough to keep kids entertained for a good hour or so. The complimentary admission and parking make it an easy and budget-friendly choice for a family excursion. It's a great way to introduce children to natural history and culture in a relaxed, uncrowded environment.
📚 Budget Travelers & Students
As a popular study spot for University of Tennessee students, it offers a quiet and inspiring atmosphere for anyone looking for a peaceful place to learn or reflect. The rotating exhibits mean there's always a chance to see something new, providing ongoing value for repeat visits. It’s a perfect way to enrich your trip with knowledge and culture without impacting your wallet.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Collections
Beyond natural history, the museum also explores aspects of human culture and evolution. Rotating special exhibits ensure that there's always something new to discover, with past features including vibrant art collections like 'Karl Appel: Cats!'. The museum prides itself on the care taken in research and display, highlighting the cultural and scientific significance of its collection.
While the museum is described as compact, its curated displays are thoughtfully presented. It's an ideal destination for those seeking an informative and engaging experience without the overwhelming scale of larger institutions. The museum also includes a creative space for children, encouraging young visitors to participate and contribute.
A Student and Local Favorite
Locals and visitors alike appreciate the museum for its free admission and parking, making it an accessible cultural outing for everyone. The lack of crowds, especially during weekday visits, allows for a peaceful and in-depth exploration of the exhibits. This tranquility is often highlighted as a key benefit, allowing visitors to truly immerse themselves in the displays.
Reviewers often commend the museum for its great care in presentation and research, even within its smaller footprint. It's seen as a valuable resource for learning and discovery, providing a pleasant way to spend a few hours absorbing knowledge and appreciating the artifacts on display. The museum's ability to offer a meaningful experience without a fee makes it a standout attraction in Knoxville.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit