Knoxville Sports Guide: Football, Hockey, and Smokies Baseball

May 19, 2025 admin Events, Things To Do Comments Off on Knoxville Sports Guide: Football, Hockey, and Smokies Baseball
neyland stadium on game day

Knoxville Sports Guide: Football, Hockey, and Smokies Baseball

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just love the energy of live sports, Knoxville has something for you year-round. The city is home to competitive college teams, pro-level minor league games, and a community that shows up and cheers loudly.

Here’s your go-to guide for where to catch a game in Knoxville and how to join the local fan base.

1. Tennessee Volunteers – University of Tennessee Athletics

1600 Phillip Fulmer Way, Knoxville, TN 37996

Knoxville lives and breathes UT sports. The Tennessee Volunteers, especially the football team, are the pride of the city and a huge part of fall weekends. From Neyland Stadium in the heart of campus to Thompson-Boling Arena, there’s always a game happening. On Game Day you can enjoy Tailgating, checkerboard end zones, and over 100,000 fans in orange. Whether you’re in the stands or watching from a local bar, Vols games are a Knoxville tradition.

  • Football at Neyland Stadium

  • Men’s and Women’s Basketball at Food City Center (formerly Thompson-Boling Arena)

  • Baseball at Lindsey Nelson Stadium

  • Softball, volleyball, tennis, track and more

2. Knoxville Ice Bears – Southern Professional Hockey League

500 Howard Baker Jr Dr, Knoxville, TN 37915

Hockey in East Tennessee? You bet. The Knoxville Ice Bears play fast, physical hockey in the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL) and have built a loyal fan base since 2002.

They hit the ice at the Knoxville Civic Coliseum, located downtown and close to bars and restaurants for a fun night out.

Why You’ll Love It

  • High-energy games

  • Affordable tickets

  • Themed nights and giveaways

  • Great for families or a group outing

3. Tennessee Smokies Baseball – Double-A Affiliate of the Chicago Cubs

Covenant Health Stadium, 500 E Jackson Ave, Knoxville, TN 37915

Baseball lives downtown with the Tennessee Smokies playing right in Knoxville’s Old City. As a Double-A team for the Chicago Cubs, the Smokies bring the excitement of pro-level baseball to a walkable, city-friendly ballpark.

Games run from spring through early fall and include fun extras like fireworks, food specials, and family-friendly promos.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Ballpark vibes in a downtown setting

  • Theme nights, giveaways, and fireworks

  • Easy access to food, drinks, and post-game fun

  • Affordable and laid-back atmosphere

High School Sports and Community Events

Knoxville also has a strong local sports culture at the high school level. Friday night football, cross-town basketball rivalries, and youth sports leagues are big here too. You don’t have to go far to find a game.

No matter what time of year it is, you can catch a game in Knoxville. Whether it’s Saturdays at Neyland, weeknight hockey at the Civic Coliseum, or a sunny afternoon at the ballpark, there’s always a reason to wear your team colors and cheer loud.

If you’re new to town or just exploring, don’t miss the chance to become part of Knoxville’s sports scene. It’s local, loud, and a lot of fun.