Plan Your Museum Trip

We invite you to come explore and learn about the people, places, and events that have shaped our region through the award-winning exhibits housed at the Museum of East Tennessee History.

Museum of East Tennessee 601 S Gay St
Knoxville, TN 37902
Mon 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Tues 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Wed 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Thurs 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Fir 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Sat 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Sun 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
(865) 215-8830 Get Directions
East Tennessee History Center building facade
Adults
Entry $10.00
Ages 17 to 54
Seniors
Entry $8.00
55 and Up
Children
Entry Free
16 and under
ETHS Members
Entry Free
Must be a current member
Group Rate
Entry $6.00 per person
for 10+ adults. Call to schedule.

The Museum of East Tennessee

The Museum is located at the East Tennessee History Center in the heart of downtown Knoxville, directly across the street from the Tennessee Theatre and just blocks from other historic attractions, such as Blount Mansion and James White’s Fort.

Open seven days a week, the Museum has been developed to capture the interest of a wide range of audiences. For instance, the interactive displays found in the signature exhibition, Voices of the Land: The People of East Tennessee, allow visitors the opportunity to not only be in the presence of original artifacts that stood witness to the region’s past but also to hear first-person accounts of what life was like, all amidst a backdrop of compelling, historic imagery. The Museum mounts a number of changing exhibits throughout the year, too, each of which focuses on a unique aspect of East Tennessee.

Parking

City of Knoxville Garages:  City of Knoxville garages also offer free parking when entering after 6:00 p.m. weekdays and all day on weekends. For additional parking information, please reference either Downtown Knoxville’s parking map or Parkopedia.

Short-Term Metered Parking: On-street, short-termed metered parking is available near ETHC’s entrance at Gay Street and Clinch Avenue. The spaces are typically limited to two hours and are actively patrolled by parking enforcement.

Handicap Accessible Parking: Two handicap accessible parking spaces are available on Gay Street, directly in front of ETHC. There is a two-hour time limit.

Discounted Admission Programs

Museums for All

For families who participate in SNAP, WIC or TANF we provide an admission fee of $2 per person (for up to four people).

Blue Star Museums

The Blue Star Museums program provides free admission to currently-serving U.S. military personnel and their families during the summer.

Penny 4 Arts

Penny4Arts gives every child in Knox and surrounding counties an opportunity to attend arts and culture events/activities at the maximum cost of ONE PENNY (or FREE) when accompanied by a paying adult.

PASTPORT: Your Key to the History of Knoxville, Tennessee

The PastPort gives purchasers admission for a regular tour at the current seven members of Historic House Museums of Knoxville as well as the Museum of East Tennessee History.

Explorer Pass

The Read City Explorer Pass program allows Knox County Public Library cardholders to book a visit to an area museum or cultural institution for free or reduced admission.

Exhibitions

View Current Exhibitions

See what exhibitions are currently on display at the Museum of East Tennessee History.

Programs & Events

Explore Events

From lectures and workshops to happy hours and open houses, we offer events for history lovers of all ages

Research

Discover Research

Novice or experienced, local or beyond, you will find a wealth of resources at the East Tennessee History Center to trace your family and regional history