Knoxville’s iconic landmark Sunsphere, which recently was painted back to its orginal colors, is adding a visitor’s center.
Origionally opened when the city hosted the 1982 World’s Fair, the Sunsphere is undergoing a multi-phase upgrade.
“We’re thrilled this day is finally here to be able to offer this enhanced experience for our community and beyond,” said Kim Bumpas, President of Visit Knoxville. “The Welcome Center expansion shows our passion and dedication to this iconic structure, and we can’t wait to welcome our visitors to the Sunsphere!”
“I am so excited to share these renovations with all of Knoxville and the thousands of visitors who come here every year,” said City of Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon. “Thank you Visit Knoxville for having the vision to bring this new visitor’s center to life, and for ensuring this landmark will be here for generations to come!”
The pubilc is invited to the welcome center ribbon-cutting ceremony on November 20 at 10 a.m. The Budweiser Clydesdales will be on site from 9–11 for photos, along with coffee from Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee Truck for purchase and complimentary Sunsphere cookies.
Phase II entailed the construction of the Welcome Center on the third-floor level of the Sunsphere (street level on Clinch Avenue). The Welcome Center will enhance the visitor experience by providing staffed ticketing, expanded retail, as well as brochures and information in an enclosed space overlooking World’s Fair Park.
The Sunsphere was painted back to its original PANTONE® color Classic Blue 19-4052 TCX by CertaPro Painters in partnership with the City of Knoxville, the Public Building Authority, and Knox County. Phase I was completed on November 17, 2023.
“The Sunsphere plays a pivotal role in how we tell the story of visitation to Knox County,” said Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs. “Visit Knoxville is an incredible partner, and we appreciate the work they’ve done to enhance this symbolic structure to continue to welcome visitors from around the world.”
Follow the Sunsphere on Facebook and Instagram. Purchase tickets at sunspheretickets.com.
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