Volunteer Landing Park

Scenic Riverfront Escape

Volunteer Landing Park stretches along the Tennessee River in downtown Knoxville, offering a peaceful 12.5-acre retreat from city life while still being right in the heart of it all. This linear waterfront park is a great spot to catch your breath and soak in some seriously gorgeous views of the river against Knoxville's skyline. The view is particularly beautiful at sunset when the city lights reflect on the water's surface.

A Path With a View

The park's one-mile paved riverwalk hugs the Tennessee River, making it ideal for your morning jog, afternoon stroll, or casual bike ride. Along the way, you'll encounter historical markers that tell the story of Knoxville's relationship with the river - a nice touch that adds some context to your wanderings.

The multi-level viewing areas step down toward the water, with each tier offering a different perspective of the river landscape. These spots provide excellent views of the water and cityscape.

Splash and Play

During warmer months, the park comes alive with water features that add a refreshing element to your visit. The splash pads and fountains are popular with children, providing relief on hot Tennessee summer days.

If you're drawn to the water itself, the park offers direct river access for fishing or launching your paddleboard. You can rent boats nearby to explore the Tennessee River at your own pace, or treat yourself to a cruise on the Volunteer Princess, where you can enjoy a meal while gliding along the water.

Take a Moment

The thoughtful layout includes all the necessities like restrooms near the dock and around the grounds. We really like the swings facing the river - there's something calming about gently swaying while watching the water flow by.

You'll discover plenty of benches and rest areas scattered along the riverwalk for when you need a breather. The entire park is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy this beautiful riverfront space without obstacles.

Beyond the Park

Volunteer Landing isn't an isolated haven - it's actually a hub connecting multiple greenways in Knoxville's urban trail network. It seamlessly links to both the James White Greenway and the Neyland Greenway, giving you options to extend your adventure through the city's green spaces.

If you're a cycling enthusiast or just enjoy longer walks, using Volunteer Landing as your starting point opens up miles of well-maintained paths along the river and beyond.

Game Day Tradition

On University of Tennessee football game days, the park transforms into something entirely different. The area buzzes with energy as the "Vol Navy" arrives - a unique tradition where fans dock their boats to tailgate before cheering on the team. Even if you're not a sports fan, it's a spectacle worth witnessing.

Bring Your Furry Friend

Leashed dogs are welcome across the park, making it a go-to spot for local pet owners. The smooth, paved paths are gentle on paws, and the river views seem to delight canine companions just as much as their humans.

In the Heart of It All

The park's downtown location puts you just steps away from some of Knoxville's best restaurants and attractions. You can easily spend a morning exploring the riverwalk before heading to a nearby café for lunch, creating a perfect, low-key day out.

Good to Know

Volunteer Landing is managed by the Public Building Authority (PBA) and welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to midnight. With its central location and available parking, getting here is refreshingly hassle-free whether you're a local or just passing through Knoxville.