About This Playground
🌳 Fort Kid is a beloved community-built playground park in Knoxville, Tennessee, near the Knoxville Museum of Art. Originally constructed in 1991 through volunteer efforts, it underwent major renovations in 2021 after being temporarily closed due to safety concerns. The new playground maintains its castle-like theme while featuring modern equipment and improved accessibility.
Visitor Experience: Fort Kid generally receives positive reviews from families who appreciate its unique design, historical significance, and central location. Many reviewers express nostalgia about the original structure while appreciating the updated facilities. Some reviews mention that while the renovated playground is nice, it doesn't have the same charm as the original community-built wooden structure.>
More about this playground
Playground Type
Address
1049 Worlds Fair Park Dr, Knoxville, TN 37916, USA
Phone
(865) 215-4311
+1 865-215-4311
Coordinates
35.96275, -83.9262
Hours of Operation
Hours may vary during holidays. Please call ahead for confirmation.
Playground Features
Age Suitability
Suitable for children of various age groups (2-12 years), with separate areas for younger and older children
Equipment Available
Modern playground equipment including slides, climbing structures, swings, interactive panels, and castle-themed elements that pay homage to the original design
Shaded Areas
Limited natural shade from surrounding trees; some play structures have built-in shade elements
Seating For Parents
Multiple benches positioned around the playground for parents to supervise children
Restroom Availability
No permanent restroom facilities within the playground itself; visitors typically use facilities at nearby Knoxville Museum of Art or World's Fair Park
Drinking Fountains
Limited water fountain access; recommended to bring water, especially during summer months
Safety Accessibility
Fencing
Partial fencing around the playground area, primarily on the street-facing sides
Surface Material
Modern poured-in-place rubber surfacing in play areas providing impact absorption and accessibility
Ada Accessibility
The renovated playground includes ADA-compliant features including accessible pathways and some inclusive play equipment
Cleanliness Maintenance
Well-maintained by the City of Knoxville Parks and Recreation Department with regular cleaning and inspections
Additional Amenities
Nearby Parking
Paid parking available at the Knoxville Museum of Art lot and along neighboring streets
Pet Policy
Dogs allowed in park areas but must be leashed; not permitted on playground equipment
Bike Racks
Limited bike rack availability near the entrance
Nearby Food Options
No food vendors on site; downtown Knoxville restaurants within walking distance; picnic areas available for bringing own food
Sports Areas
No dedicated sports courts within Fort Kid itself
Walking / Biking Trails Nearby
Connected to World's Fair Park walking paths and close to downtown Knoxville pedestrian areas
Community Reviews
User Submitted Photos
Many visitors share photos on social media platforms and review sites, often comparing the new design to the historic wooden structure
Recent Reviews
Recent reviews highlight appreciation for the renovated space while noting it's smaller than the original fort
Crowd Levels
Moderately busy on weekends and during good weather; less crowded on weekday mornings
Special Events
Occasional community events and birthday celebrations; the site has historical significance with anniversary celebrations marking its community origins
User Experience
Entrance Fee
Free admission to the playground
Space For Groups
Suitable for small to medium-sized groups; limited picnic table availability for gatherings
Nature Connection
Some natural elements incorporated into the design; located in an urban park setting with trees surrounding the playground area
Noise Level
Typical playground noise levels; relatively quiet during weekdays and busier with increased noise on weekends
Aesthetic Design
Modern playground with castle-themed elements that pay homage to the original wooden fort structure; designed to blend with the surrounding park area
Safety Regulations
Security Presence
Regular patrols by park staff and occasional police presence as part of routine downtown monitoring
Rules Restrictions
Standard playground rules including adult supervision requirements, no smoking, proper use of equipment, and hours of operation (typically dawn to dusk)
First Aid Availability
No dedicated first aid station; emergency services accessible via 911; Knoxville Museum of Art staff may provide assistance during operating hours
Community Interaction
Community Activities
Fort Kid has a strong community connection, having been originally built by volunteers; periodic community events celebrate its legacy
Social Interaction
Designed to encourage collaborative play and socialization among children; popular meeting spot for families with young children
Sustainability Environment
Eco Friendly Practices
Modern renovation incorporated some sustainable materials and design practices
Renewable Energy
No specific renewable energy features in the playground itself
Walkability Bike Access
Highly walkable location near downtown Knoxville; accessible via sidewalks and connected to the World's Fair Park path system
Reviews
Reagan W.
a month ago
Wow! Excellent design! Huge slide looks cool. Love how this is so near Sunsphere downtown.
View on GoogleSJJ
5 months ago
Kids had a wonderful time!! Great safe place to play!
View on Googlejennifer novello
9 months ago
Really cute little park with a nice play area..suitable for a wide range of kids, can cross the street and walk to worlds fair park for another playground over there..plenty of free parking, too. Very different from the old wooden equipment I remember and miss. I think the wooden play area was so fun, but so is this new playground. Kids love it.
View on GoogleDeanna Port
a year ago
When this park reopened we knew we had to stop in. From what this park used to be to what it is now it’s very underwhelming. 1.3 million dollars?! It sure doesn’t seem like it…it’s a small park to being with but the vertical aspect kinda helps. There is one metal slide which you can’t even use in the summertime. The area for little kids is a bit of a joke as it’s two little hills and the area below isn’t gated off. Maybe if you’re the only family at the park it would be better but it won’t take many more for it to be a crowd.
View on GoogleLisa Sullivan
a year ago
The new Fort Kid is awesome!! This was my first visit since the new construction and my 9yr old grandson and I were super impressed! The equipment is beautiful and sturdy. The entire area is clean and well kept. The kids there were having a great time climbing, sliding, running, jumping on the parcore balls, etc... the bathroom is just outside the gate. I didn't like that the playground is built directly behind people's houses. It must be disturbing to the residents hearing kiddos having fun literally in their backyard. My daughters, neices and nephews were huge fans of the old Ft. Kid. Now their children have that same outdoor place to have fun!! Also, plenty of parking.
View on Google