Families looking for things to do with kids in Oak Ridge have plenty of options. From interactive museums and local history to parks, trails, playgrounds, and time by the water, there are activities for different ages and interests throughout the area.
Whether you live in Oak Ridge or are considering moving to the area, these are a few places to enjoy with the family.
Children’s Museum of Oak Ridge
The Children’s Museum of Oak Ridge combines learning with hands-on activities and exhibits. Kids can spend time learning about science, history, art, and the Oak Ridge community while moving through different areas of the museum.
Exhibits cover a variety of subjects, making this a good indoor option for families looking for something both educational and entertaining.
Haw Ridge Park
For families who prefer spending time outside, Haw Ridge Park offers miles of trails through wooded areas and along the water.
The park is popular for hiking and biking, giving families plenty of room to get outside and experience the natural side of Oak Ridge. With multiple trails to choose from, families can plan their visit around the distance and difficulty that works for them.
Melton Lake Park
Melton Lake Park is another popular place for families in Oak Ridge. Located along Melton Hill Lake, the park offers a paved greenway, playground, picnic areas, and access to the water.
Families can walk or bike along the lake, bring lunch for a picnic, spend time at the playground, or simply enjoy being outside near the water.
A.K. Bissell Park
A.K. Bissell Park provides open green space near the center of Oak Ridge. Walking paths, a playground, and areas for relaxing outside make it an easy place to visit for an afternoon.
The park is also used for community gatherings and events throughout the year, giving families another reason to visit beyond its everyday recreation.
Aspire Park
A short drive from Oak Ridge in Clinton, Aspire Park gives families even more ways to spend time outside. The 370-acre park features a large playground, walking and hiking trails, mountain biking, open green space, and access to the Clinch River.
Kids can spend time on the playground while older children and adults can walk, hike, bike, or enjoy the river. With several activities in one location, Aspire Park is an easy option for a family day trip close to Oak Ridge.
American Museum of Science and Energy
The American Museum of Science and Energy introduces visitors to the science, technology, and history connected to Oak Ridge.
Interactive exhibits cover topics such as energy, scientific research, and the Manhattan Project. For families, it’s an opportunity to learn more about the history of Oak Ridge while giving kids a closer look at the science that continues to play an important role in the city.
More Things to Do With Kids in Oak Ridge
One advantage of living in Oak Ridge is having several types of family activities close to home. A weekend could include visiting a museum, walking along Melton Hill Lake, riding bikes, spending time at a playground, hiking a local trail, or making the short drive to Aspire Park.
For families considering a move to Oak Ridge, these parks, museums, and outdoor spaces are just part of what the community has to offer.