As you register for the 2019 NASC Symposium, May 6-9 in Knoxville, set aside time to take a look around our host city while you’re there.

While Knoxville may be best known as the home of the University of Tennessee, it holds the distinction of being the smallest city to host of a World’s Fair when it held the event in 1982. The Sunsphere Tower left over from the fair remains a skyline fixture. Springtime in the South is always a great time to visit, and here are some activities you might want to check out while you’re at the Symposium:

Knox Brew Tours:

Tours are held weekly on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and it’s a good way to experience Knoxville’s growing beer scene with someone else driving. Find out times and details at www.knoxbrewtours.com.

Knoxville Walking Tours:

Experience a closeup look at the pioneers, soldiers, outlaws and even fictional characters that have given Knoxville a colorful past. They include looks at the Civil War, Musical History, Ghost Tours and African American History. Times vary depending on the topic, check out www.knoxvillewalkingtours.com

Knoxville Museum of Art:

It’s free (bonus!) and it’s right by the Sunsphere. It celebrates the art and culture of East Tennessee, but also has feature collections like “Cycle of Life: Within the Power of Dreams and the Winder of Infinity,” the largest figural glass installation in the world. Learn more about their exhibitions at www.knoxart.org.

Zoo Knoxville:

Most notable for having bred the first two African Elephants born in the Western Hemisphere. The zoo also has bred more endangered red pandas in the world and is a leader in the breeding of endangered tortoises. Plan your visit at www.zooknoxville.org. 

Food Tours:

Food Tours can feed the inner foodie in you. Whether it’s a lunch and learn with a history guide, a food tour of the Bearden District or a visit to Old North Knoxville, you’re sure to satisfy your gourmet appetite. Schedules and tickets are available at

www.knoxvillefoodtours.com.

You will find all kinds of fun activities as you explore Knoxville during the NASC Symposium. We hope to see you there!