Free local summer outings for families with kids

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - Ready for family outings this summer that keep you close to home in East Tennessee? Need to keep it low-cost or even no-cost? Here are three ideas for families around Knoxville.

Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum

is open from dawn to dusk every day. It offers 47 acres at 2743 Wimpole Avenue where visitors can roam. On Wednesday mornings at 10:30, the garden offers a free storytime hour for preschool-aged or young school-aged children.

"The parents love storytime,"

said Horticulture Director Amanda Spangler.

"We're a little different in that we're outside and there are just so many different things for the kids to explore and do. So usually during the story we get questions and we get to experience the world around us."

Young children can roam through herb and vegetable gardens or even pet hens in an enclosure. Picnic tables give families options for lunch after storytime, as well.

The Botanical Garden

also still has openings at its summer camp.

The Muse Knoxville

is a children's museum located next door to Zoo Knoxville, offering Free Family Night once each month. The next time is Friday, May 25 from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. The museum aims to keep school-aged children interested with discovery exhibits, including those focused on science and technology.

The Muse offers a low-cost Family Access Membership for families receiving public income-related assistance. You must show the Muse proof of enrollment to qualify.

Free concerts are planned for the second Saturday of the month in June, July and August at The Cove in Concord Park. The park also hosts free fishing day on June 9. Swimming and other water access is free, as is sand volleyball.