KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Visit Knoxville announced that construction on the Sunsphere Welcome Center will begin at the end of March.
Construction on the welcome center is phase two of the plan to update and enhance the Sunsphere. Phase one involved painting the Sunsphere back to its original classic blue color in November 2023.
The updated welcome center will feature staffed ticketing, expanded retail, brochures and information in an enclosed space overlooking World's Fair Park, according to Visit Knoxville.
“We are so excited to offer an elevated experience to visitors and locals alike with the new Sunsphere Welcome Center," President of Visit Knoxville Kim Bumpas said. “The beautiful color change of the structure has already made an impact, and this second phase will enhance the vision even more.”
The current ticketing process for the Sunsphere involves utilizing a QR code, where guests have to meet at the base level at their appointed time slot to go up to the fourth-floor observation deck. The new welcome center will allow for walk-up tickets and an air-conditioned waiting spot for guests.
The interior of the welcome center will have many windows overlooking World’s Fair Park. The interior will also include a unique skylight feature, according to Visit Knoxville.
The Sunsphere will remain open throughout the construction process.
“These renovations continue to highlight the status of Knoxville’s iconic structure, welcoming all to this standout attraction,” Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon said. “This could not be done without the participation of key partnerships to bring this vision to life, and we know that the Sunsphere Welcome Center will be a highlight of our city’s downtown.”