Zoo Knoxville is a year-round, AZA-accredited zoo on 53 wooded acres in Knoxville, home to more than 1,500 animals across 200 species. Kids get face-to-face time with Malayan tigers, giraffe encounters, camel rides, a classic carousel, and a splash zone, plus the Zoo Choo Train — a little train ride that circles the koi pond. Daily keeper chats (including the popular Asian Trek) give kids a behind-the-scenes look at animal care and conservation.

A zoo trip is an easy half-day from Maryville (roughly 25–30 minutes). Plan on 2–3 hours for a first visit. Parking is a small fee, and a food and gift shop are on site. Check the zoo site for current hours and admission prices before you go.