10 Family-Friendly Fun Things to Do in Oak Ridge, TN
This East Tennessee city has plenty of great attractions and activities for all ages.
While Oak Ridge is just a half hour from Knoxville, you don’t have to leave town to find something for the whole family to enjoy – the region boasts numerous venues and attractions for people of all ages and tastes. Families can enjoy live music, thrifting and outdoor recreation. Here are 10 fun things to do in Oak Ridge.
In This Article
1. Jump in the Lake
At Melton Lake Park, families can find outdoor adventure. With 173 miles of picturesque shoreline to explore, take a dip at the swim beach, grab your kayak or join a rowing crew. On dry land, there’s a 5.6-mile greenway, plus a sand volleyball court, playground, picnic shelters and pavilion.
2. Take a Dip
Originally built in 1944 for the workers of the Manhattan Project and their families, the Oak Ridge Community Swimming Pool is one of the largest spring water-fed pools in the country. Renovated in 1993, it has a zero-entry pool that goes as deep as 13.5 feet, plus 25- and 100-meter courses. There is an off-shore island, a grassy beach area and a concession stand with float rental.
3. Groove at the Summer Sessions
This free outdoor concert series features regional bluegrass and Americana performers at the pavilion in A.K. Bissell Park. Bring your lawn chairs and get snacks from the on-site food trucks while the whole family enjoys the music.
4. Indulge Your Sweet Tooth
Oak Ridge has plenty of places to enjoy sweet treats – and you don’t even have to clean your plate first. While locals love Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers and Dunkin’, Millborne Bakery is a locally owned favorite. Opened by two friends in 2020, they make giant cinnamon rolls, scones, breads and cookies in-house. Chocolate chip cookies are available every day, along with two other rotating choices.
5. Take a Look, It’s in a Book
Oak Ridge Public Library doesn’t only have books, audiobooks and DVDs to borrow. It also offers robust community programming for kids, teens and adults. While the littles enjoy storytime, teens and adults can attend author talks, book sales and more.
6. Find Your Muse
The root of the word “museum” is “seat of Muses,” meaning a place of contemplation. Oak Ridge has several options. The American Museum of Science and Energy and the K-25 History Center chronicle the Manhattan Project and beyond; the Oak Ridge Heritage & Preservation Association delves into local history; and the Children’s Museum of Oak Ridge lets kids play and explore, while learning something new.
Did You Know?
Oak Ridge has more than 30 parks and recreation facilities, and every residential area is within a half-mile of at least one park.
7. Spend a Day on the Green
For those whose ideal day is spent on the green, you have plenty of scenic courses to choose from in Oak Ridge. The Patch at the Preserve, Tennessee Centennial Golf Course and Oak Ridge Country Club offer Smoky Mountain views, along with other amenities for golfers of all skill levels.
8. Go Treasure Hunting
Thrifting is a fun pastime where you may just scoop up a new-to-you treasure at a bargain price. Brysonn’s Closet (whose profits help locals in need), Goodwill or ReStore Oak Ridge are a few stores in the area.
9. Listen to Live Music
Oak Ridge is full of local talent, like Shayla McDaniel, who love to perform at venues across town. The historic Grove Theater has been entertaining people since the 1940s, while 201 Cafe and Wine Bar hosts live jazz and R&B performances most weekends.
10. Find a Spiritual Community
Local churches are a great way to get plugged into the community because they each offer family-friendly programming and events, and are open to everyone. First United Methodist, Oak Valley Baptist Church and St. Mary’s Church are just a few options that are welcoming to newcomers.
Get to Know Oak Ridge
Want to learn more about living and working in Oak Ridge, TN? Check out the latest edition of Livability Oak Ridge, Tennessee.