Sunsphere Knoxville
Iconic golden tower from the 1982 World's Fair, offering free park access and paid observation deck with panoramic city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, clearer views
Sunsphere Knoxville
Best Time
Fewer crowds, clearer views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic golden tower from the 1982 World's Fair, offering free park access and paid observation deck with panoramic city views.
"Great place to explore the city from up high! 1982 memorabilia everywhere!"
🎟️ Check Admission Fees
Entry to the observation deck has a fee, around $10. Consider if the views are worth it for your group.
☀️ Golden Hour Magic
Visit during golden hour for stunning photos of the gold-covered exterior.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
360-Degree Observation Deck
4th Floor
Soak in breathtaking panoramic views of Knoxville, the Tennessee River, and the distant Smoky Mountains.
1982 World's Fair History
Observation Deck & Exhibits
Explore fascinating memorabilia and facts from the 1982 World's Fair, a unique piece of Knoxville's past.
Golden Exterior
Exterior of the Sunsphere
Admire the iconic 266-foot tower, famously covered in 24-karat gold glass, especially stunning during golden hour.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Understanding the Sunsphere's History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Check Admission Fees
Entry to the observation deck has a fee, around $10. Consider if the views are worth it for your group.
☀️ Golden Hour Magic
Visit during golden hour for stunning photos of the gold-covered exterior.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Outside
The surrounding World's Fair Park offers playgrounds and a splash pad for kids.
✨ New Welcome Center
Explore the recently opened welcome center inside the Sunsphere for local inspiration.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Check Admission Fees
Entry to the observation deck has a fee, around $10. Consider if the views are worth it for your group.
☀️ Golden Hour Magic
Visit during golden hour for stunning photos of the gold-covered exterior.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Outside
The surrounding World's Fair Park offers playgrounds and a splash pad for kids.
✨ New Welcome Center
Explore the recently opened welcome center inside the Sunsphere for local inspiration.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The Sunsphere itself is a unique photo subject, especially from different angles. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Sunsphere to be an iconic Knoxville landmark offering great panoramic views and a glimpse into the 1982 World's Fair history. While the observation deck experience is appreciated, some feel the admission price is a bit high for the duration. The surrounding park is a definite plus for families and relaxation.
"Although a short tour, the experience is great! You get to see a panoramic view of the city of Chattanooga and learn about the history of the Sunsphere and the World Fair. There are some interesting facts about pop culture during 1982."
Francisco Cappai
"This was a really good place to stop and visit. It's got history, and it's really tall, with great views!! When u walk in the bottom and go to the third floor to deal with your tickets, u get in and they push 4th floor, and your at the top... SURPRISE!! Lol! The park outside has great places to play or relax, with a splash pad for the kids. Check it out, it's worth it."
S S
"Great place to explore the city from up high! 1982 memorabilia everywhere! $10 to get in and 10 minutes until kids are bored so think about your return on that investment but it's fun to experience."
All Experiences
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sunsphere is located in downtown Knoxville at 810 Clinch Ave. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options also serve the downtown area.
Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options available in the downtown Knoxville area, close to the Sunsphere and World's Fair Park.
If you are staying in downtown Knoxville, the Sunsphere is within walking distance of many hotels and attractions.
The address for the Sunsphere is 810 Clinch Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902.
Yes, various bus routes serve the downtown Knoxville area, making the Sunsphere accessible via public transportation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Sunsphere observation deck typically costs around $10 per person. Some visitors feel this is a bit high for the experience. +1
Sunsphere hours can vary, and it's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information. They are generally open during daytime hours.
While not always necessary, purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons or for special events.
No, there is an admission fee to access the observation deck on the 4th floor. However, exploring the surrounding World's Fair Park is free.
Information on discounts is not widely available, but it's always worth checking the official Sunsphere website or inquiring at the ticket counter.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
From the Sunsphere's observation deck, you can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of downtown Knoxville, the Tennessee River, and the surrounding East Tennessee landscape, including glimpses of the Smoky Mountains.
A visit to the Sunsphere observation deck can be quite short, with some visitors noting their children get bored within 10 minutes. The entire experience, including viewing exhibits, might take 30-60 minutes.
Visitors can ascend to the observation deck for city views, explore exhibits about the 1982 World's Fair and Knoxville's history, and enjoy the surrounding World's Fair Park.
While the views are impressive, younger children might find the observation deck experience brief. The park outside offers more engaging activities for kids, like playgrounds and a splash pad.
The Sunsphere was the centerpiece of the 1982 Knoxville World's Fair and remains an iconic symbol of the city, representing its history and forward-looking spirit. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting on the gold-covered exterior. Sunrise views from the observation deck can also be spectacular. 
Yes, photography is encouraged from the observation deck to capture the panoramic views of Knoxville.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. Professional or commercial photography may require special permits, so it's best to check with management if you have specific needs.
The surrounding World's Fair Park offers excellent vantage points for photographing the entire Sunsphere structure. Drone photography also captures unique perspectives.
Some visitors have humorously compared the Sunsphere's golden exterior to a disco ball, especially from certain angles or in certain lighting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more engaging visit, look for special events hosted at the Sunsphere, such as holiday photo opportunities with Santa.
💰 Budget Travelers
This is a great way to appreciate the landmark without incurring costs.If you do decide to go up, consider visiting during off-peak hours to potentially have a more relaxed experience. Some visitors suggest that the views are 'fine' but not 'crazy,' and that a lower price point would be more justifiable.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Drone photography provides unique aerial perspectives of the tower and its surroundings. From the observation deck, capture panoramic shots of Knoxville's skyline, the Tennessee River, and the distant mountains.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sunsphere: A Symbol of Knoxville's Past and Future
Today, the Sunsphere stands as a proud landmark in World's Fair Park. While the observation deck offers stunning panoramic views of the city, the tower also houses exhibits that delve into the history of the World's Fair and its impact on Knoxville. Visitors can learn about the technology and culture of the early 1980s, making it an educational as well as scenic experience.
Recent renovations have introduced a new Welcome Center inside the Sunsphere, aiming to provide visitors with inspiration and information about exploring Knoxville and the surrounding region. This initiative underscores the Sunsphere's continued role as a gateway to experiencing the best of East Tennessee.
Experiencing the Views and Beyond
While the views are a primary draw, the observation deck also features infographics and exhibits detailing the 1982 World's Fair and providing insights into Knoxville's history and culture. These displays add a layer of context to the visual experience, making it more than just a scenic overlook.
Beyond the tower itself, the World's Fair Park surrounding the Sunsphere offers ample space for recreation and relaxation. It features playgrounds, open green areas, and a splash pad, making it a great spot for families to enjoy after their visit to the observation deck.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit