Zoo Knoxville is a mid-size zoo occupying 53 acres northeast of downtown in Chilhowee Park. It has a particular reputation for big cat breeding — the zoo has one of the longest-running cheetah breeding programmes in North America and has bred more red pandas than any other zoo in the Western Hemisphere. Both species are reliably on display.
The zoo works well as a half-day outing, particularly for visitors with children. The African savannah exhibit and the Journey to the Jungle section are the strongest areas. The Appalachian Boardwalk section shows animals native to the region. Access is by car or rideshare; there is ample parking. The zoo runs seasonal evening events and the Christmas lights display in December draws large crowds.