Haley Heritage Square - brown and white concrete building under blue sky during daytime
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Haley Heritage Square

4.7
·86 reviews·Knoxville, United States

Haley Heritage Square honors Alex Haley with an impressive statue, offering a park with a playground, disc golf, and scenic views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter mornings

Clear Smokies views

CrowdLow
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Haley Heritage Square - brown and white concrete building under blue sky during daytime

Haley Heritage Square

Best Time

Winter mornings

Clear Smokies views

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Haley Heritage Square honors Alex Haley with an impressive statue, offering a park with a playground, disc golf, and scenic views.

4.7
(86 reviews)

"This is such a nice, quiet park. It's a hidden gem!"

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Statue

The Alex Haley statue is a must-see; it's considered one of the most beautiful.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Watch Kids Closely

The playground is near a steep hill, so keep a close eye on children.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Alex Haley Statue

Alex Haley Statue

Centerpiece of the square

An impressive and beautiful tribute to the acclaimed author of 'Roots.'

Instagram
Playground & Disc Golf

Playground & Disc Golf

Adjacent to the statue

A brand new playground and a disc golf course make this a fun spot for families and recreation.

Reddit
Smoky Mountains View

Smoky Mountains View

From the statue's perspective (winter)

In winter, the statue offers a clear view of the majestic Smoky Mountains.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the History

Haley Heritage Square honors Alex Haley, author of 'Roots.' Explore the statue and learn about his impact on understanding African American heritage and genealogy. TikTok

Park Amenities & Views

Beyond the statue, discover a disc golf course, playground, walking trails, and picnic areas. Enjoy potential Smokies views in winter! Reddit

Best Times

When
Winter mornings
Why
Clear Smokies views
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter park experience
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Family fun at playground
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Alex Haley Statue in Knoxville, TN. #fyp #foryourpage #alexhaley #rootsalexhaley #alexhaleyqueen💔 #knoxvilletennessee #tennessee #chickengeorge #malcolmx #blackstatues
@sankofatravelher
170 likes • 4.2K views

📸 Capture the Statue

The Alex Haley statue is a must-see; it's considered one of the most beautiful. Instagram

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Watch Kids Closely

The playground is near a steep hill, so keep a close eye on children. Reddit

Alex Haley is widely acclaimed in literature and history for his influential contributions that have reshaped the understanding of African American heritage. His most well-known work, "Roots: The Saga of an American Family," earned him a Pulitzer Prize and sparked a nationwide interest in genealogy, leading many to delve into their ancestral backgrounds. Haley's collaboration on "The Autobiography...
@blackartdepot
377 likes • 8.3K views
I’ve been doing a lot of singing lately to “not be a singer.” Lol I am beyond honored to have been able to tribute #EdyeEllis today at Haley Heritage Square in Knoxville, TN thanks to @beckculturalexchangecenter and @wbirchannel10. Edye was one of one. Compassion, elegance, and class were exemplified at all times. I believed the news she reported. I believed HER. And I could think of no more fitti...
christopherlhamblin
49 likes • 1.8K views

🌳 Enjoy the Green Space

It's a large, clean park with walking trails and picnic areas. A true hidden gem! Reddit

🌬️ Winter Views

Visit in winter for a unique perspective of the Smokies from the statue. Reddit

Day 25 Knoxville, NC State Capital The Alex Haley Statue Haley Heritage Square This was our favorite part of Knoxville. We travel a lot and see lots of statues…. This by far was the most beautiful and impressive. #theblondeandtheprofessor #AlexHaley #knoxville #haleyheritagesquare
jacquecastan
4 likes • 68 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Statue

The Alex Haley statue is a must-see; it's considered one of the most beautiful. Instagram

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Watch Kids Closely

The playground is near a steep hill, so keep a close eye on children. Reddit

🌳 Enjoy the Green Space

It's a large, clean park with walking trails and picnic areas. A true hidden gem! Reddit

🌬️ Winter Views

Visit in winter for a unique perspective of the Smokies from the statue. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(86 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Haley Heritage Square for its impressive Alex Haley statue and its well-maintained park amenities, including a playground and disc golf course. It's considered a hidden gem offering a blend of history, recreation, and scenic views, especially in winter. Some note the playground's proximity to a steep hill, requiring vigilance with children.

"Most pix of this place are of the impressive statue of Mr. Haley but when visiting I noticed that in winter months (with no leaves on trees) he has quite an impressive view of the Smokies. And in another year or two, should he decide to turn around to look over his shoulder he’d also have a nice view of the coming downtown Smokies Baseball Park. Nice location."

J Richard Miller

"This is an amazing work of art highlighting a true pillar to the world. His actions changed the lens through which slavery was viewed. The area is clean and well kept. The playground is positioned next to a steep hill, so be sure to keep a close eye on the children."

reginald strother

"This is such a nice, quiet park. Disc golf course and brand new playground, shade and picnic tables. It's a hidden gem"

Keri Cannon Smiddy

What People Like

Impressive Alex Haley statue
New playground & disc golf
Clean, quiet park

What People Dislike

Playground near steep hill

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Haley Heritage Square is located in Knoxville, Tennessee. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, it's accessible by car. Many visitors arrive as part of exploring Knoxville's cultural sites. TikTok

Yes, parking is generally available for visitors to the square and its amenities. It's recommended to check local listings for the most current parking information. Reddit

The square is a notable landmark in Knoxville, often mentioned in conjunction with the Alex Haley statue. Using GPS or a mapping app should guide you easily. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Haley Heritage Square is a public park and generally free to enter. You can explore the statue and amenities without purchasing tickets. Reddit

As a public park, Haley Heritage Square is typically open from dawn until dusk. It's advisable to confirm specific hours if you plan to visit during early morning or late evening. Reddit

The Alex Haley statue is part of the public square, so there is no separate admission fee to view it. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Visitors can admire the Alex Haley statue, enjoy the playground, play disc golf, walk the trails, and have picnics. It's a versatile space for history buffs and families. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! The park features a brand new playground, making it a great spot for children to play. Just be mindful of the nearby steep hill. Reddit+1

Yes, there are picnic areas available, making it a perfect spot for a family outing or a relaxed lunch. Port-a-potties are also available. Reddit

The square honors Alex Haley, the author of 'Roots,' a seminal work that significantly impacted the understanding of African American heritage and genealogy. TikTok+1

While not always advertised broadly, events like tributes have been held at the square, celebrating figures like Edye Ellis. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Alex Haley statue is the primary subject, offering a powerful and impressive photo opportunity. The surrounding parkland and winter views of the Smokies also provide scenic backdrops. InstagramReddit

The statue itself can serve as a striking backdrop for portraits, especially for those interested in history or heritage. The park's natural elements also offer softer settings. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Haley Heritage Square is a fantastic destination for families. The newly renovated playground is a major draw, offering a safe and fun space for children to burn off energy. Reddit Parents should be aware that the playground is located near a steep hill, so constant supervision is recommended. Reddit The park also offers ample space for running around and exploring, with walking trails and open green areas. Reddit

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated picnic tables, making it a complete family outing. Reddit While the historical significance of the Alex Haley statue is important, the playground and open spaces ensure that younger visitors will also have an engaging and enjoyable experience. It’s a great spot to combine a bit of learning with active fun.

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers

For those interested in African American history and literature, Haley Heritage Square is a must-visit. The impressive statue of Alex Haley serves as a powerful tribute to the author of 'Roots,' a book that profoundly impacted the understanding of heritage and genealogy. TikTokInstagram Take time to read any accompanying plaques or information to fully appreciate his contributions. TikTok

Beyond the statue, the square is a place to reflect on the importance of storytelling and the preservation of history. It's a quiet, well-kept park that offers a moment of contemplation and learning. Reddit Consider visiting during a time when you can fully absorb the atmosphere and the historical context of the site. TikTok

🌳 Outdoor Enthusiasts & Recreation Seekers

Haley Heritage Square isn't just about history; it's also a great spot for outdoor activities. The park features a disc golf course that's perfect for a casual game or a more competitive round. Reddit If you prefer a more relaxed pace, explore the walking trails that offer a pleasant way to experience the park's natural setting. Reddit

With picnic areas and open spaces, it's an ideal location for an outdoor lunch or a leisurely afternoon. Reddit Don't forget to check out the playground if you're visiting with children. Reddit And for a unique visual experience, visit in winter to catch a glimpse of the Smoky Mountains from the square. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Alex Haley

Haley Heritage Square is dedicated to Alex Haley, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author renowned for his groundbreaking work, 'Roots: The Saga of an American Family.' This iconic book traced his ancestry back through generations, sparking a national interest in genealogy and profoundly reshaping the understanding of African American heritage. TikTok The statue at the square serves as a powerful tribute to his enduring legacy and his role as a storyteller who connected past, present, and future. TikTok

Haley's work emphasized the importance of family history and the resilience of the human spirit. His ability to weave personal narrative with historical context made 'Roots' a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless individuals to explore their own family trees and understand their place in history. TikTok Visiting Haley Heritage Square offers a chance to reflect on this significant contribution to literature and history. TikTok

Beyond his most famous work, Haley was also involved in other significant projects and was a respected figure in literature and civil rights. The square is a testament to his impact, not just as an author, but as a cultural icon who brought important stories to light. TikTok

Park Amenities and Recreation

While the Alex Haley statue is the centerpiece, Haley Heritage Square offers more than just historical reflection. It's a vibrant community space with a brand new playground that's a hit with families. Reddit Parents are advised to keep a close eye on children, as the playground is situated near a steep hill. Reddit

For recreation enthusiasts, the park boasts a disc golf course, providing an enjoyable activity for players of all skill levels. Reddit Additionally, walking trails wind through the park, offering a pleasant environment for a stroll or a light jog. The presence of picnic tables and port-a-potties makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely outdoor meal or a family gathering. Reddit

Interestingly, visitors have noted that in the winter months, the trees shed their leaves, offering an impressive view of the Smoky Mountains from the statue's vantage point. Reddit This adds another layer of appeal to the park, blending natural beauty with historical significance and recreational opportunities.

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