East Tennessee History Center
If you’re thinking about making Knoxville your home, the East Tennessee History Center offers a perfect introduction to the region’s rich heritage. Located in downtown Knoxville on Gay Street, this museum and cultural center helps newcomers understand what makes East Tennessee unique.
The Museum offers rotating exhibits alongside their signature exhibit, “Voices of the Land: The People of East Tennessee.” This edhitbit walks you through the area’s development from Native American settlements to the present day. It connects historical events to present-day Knoxville – you’ll start to notice references to street names and local landmarks you see around town.
Admission Tickets:
Monday-Saturday
- Adults: $10
- Seniors: $8
- Children (16 and younger): Free
Sunday:
- Free admission!
Museum Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 9am – 4pm
- Saturday: 10am – 4 pm
- Sunday: 1pm -5 pm
Street parking is available, and there’s a paid lot across the street
Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours to see everything
The research library on the 3rd floor is a valuable resource if you’re interested in local history or genealogy. The staff there can even tell you the history of a potential home or neighborhood in Knoxville.
We recommend visiting on a weekday morning when it’s quieter. This allows you to take your time reading about the industrial all the factors that still shape Knoxville’s economy and culture today.
The museum is located in the heart of downtown, making it easy to combine your visit with lunch at nearby Market Square or a walk along Gay Street to get a feel for downtown living. The surrounding area exemplifies Knoxville’s current urban revival, with historic buildings now housing modern apartments, restaurants, and shops.
Pro tip: Check their event calendar before visiting. They regularly host lectures and workshops about local history and culture, which can be great opportunities to meet people and learn more about your potential new hometown.
