Top Rated Parks to Visit in Wears Valley

"World’s Fair Park, one of Knoxville’s most popular attractions, is not just a park but also an event venue and a family-friendly hangout spot. Climb The Sunsphere, the park’s prominent landmark, to catch 360-degree views of the city and the Smoky Mountains on a clear day. Depending on when you visit, you may find live music and festivals happening in this park."

"World’s Fair Park is another fun destination to take a stroll through. The park surrounding the Sunsphere holds the Tennessee Amphitheater (the only other surviving structure in Knoxville from the 1982 World’s Fair), a lake, a sizable splash-pad fountain, and lots of lush green lawn perfect for hosting festivals and events."

"It’s not so much a destination, but more an excellent place to enjoy some takeout from one of the nearby restaurants. There’s a water feature and a few art exhibits to check out too."

"If you’re up for a solid 12-mile (roundtrip) challenge, head to Sequoyah Park and back. Otherwise, enjoy the relative calm of the Tennessee at your own pace until you’re ready to shower up and ease into the evening with a hearty dinner before a night out on the town.7:00 pm"

"Here’s another place on the water, and it comes with some impressive views. This West Knoxville park is right on the water. It’s all about staying active at Sequoyah – they have an exercise area, and trails for running and biking."

"This spot made its RootsRated debut in our 8 Ways to Wile Away the Summer post, but we thought this stunning overlook was well-deserving of an encore. In South Knoxville at 1121 Cherokee Trail, you'll find a dirt parking lot near High Ground Park. Follow the gravel trail that begins in the lot all the way back through the River Bluff Wildlife Area to what is probably the most beautiful view of Knoxville."

"Next to Heaven Ranch offers unguided trail rides, so the duration varies. For children under the age of 5, the single-rider price is halved. If the scenic views that you get on horseback aren’t enough, you can check out its zip-lining operation too."

"Knoxville tour continues… #knoxrocks #knoxfido #knoxdogpark #holstonriver #holstonriverpark #italiangreyhoundsofinstagram #italiangreyhound #iggy #dogclothes. A post shared by Bill Cameron (@summer_and_moose) on Jun 30, 2016 at 10:43am PDT"

"601 James Agee StUnderrepresented in many “Best of Knoxville” lists, it seems that only university students and Fort Sanders residents frequent this overlooked gem. While known for sushi, soups, Thai tea, and a BYOB policy (right next door there’s a convenience store living up to its designation), Chaiyo does perhaps its best work with the pad Thai. It’s sunk in a red-orange sauce and can be prepared, like much of the menu, to varying levels of spiciness."

"Some places in Knoxville offer pickup, like Tomo Japanese Restaurant."

"Denny's is a nice inexpensive Traditional American Restaurant located not too far from the center of Pigeon Forge. It is a perfect spot for Family-Friendly Dining, Late Night Dining, Breakfast and Group Dining. Denny's is open every day of the week."