Visiting Knoxville’s Sunsphere

Times have definitely changed since 1982..

Photo by Stephen Ellis on Unsplash, sunsphere on left

In 1982, Knoxville hosted the last World’s Fair. The Sunsphere, originally built for the World’s Fair, remains to this day as a downtown tourist attraction. The 266 foot tall structure contains 3 elevators and features a 360 degree view of downtown Knoxville.

Original poster seen inside of the Sunsphere, describing different energies.

The World’s Fair in 1982 was energy-focused, where representatives from all over the world showed off new (or old) energy technologies.

The prevailing thoughts on energy sure has changed a lot since 1982.

The Sunsphere features 2 rows of windows from the inside, and the bottom row of windows is downward-facing at an angle, really setting off my fear of heights. If you have such fears, this may or may not be the attraction for you. It’s a long way down. I found it was best to distract myself with all of the little facts and history lessons about the sphere that are posted all around the inside of the observation deck.

view from inside the Sunsphere(aka “The Lord’s Golf Tee”, overlooking the convention center, UT campus, and event park.

If you are visiting Knoxville, or live here, I do suggest checking out this interesting piece of history. Just know that you have to make reservations ahead of time, there are no walk-ons.