Mabry-Hazen House - white concrete house
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Mabry-Hazen House

4.7
·173 reviews·Knoxville, United States

Step back in time at Mabry-Hazen House, a preserved 1858 home filled with original artifacts and captivating family sagas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal tours

CrowdLow
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Mabry-Hazen House - white concrete house

Mabry-Hazen House

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal tours

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time at Mabry-Hazen House, a preserved 1858 home filled with original artifacts and captivating family sagas.

4.7
(173 reviews)

"Our guide was awesome. We toured the house and learned so much about the Mabry family history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Ask About Terry the Cat

Don't miss the stories and photos of Terry, the beloved cat who lived at the house!

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking through historic rooms and potentially exploring the grounds.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Mabry Family History

The Mabry Family History

Uncover the dramatic, soap-opera-like history of the original owners, including tales of gunfights and family intrigue.

Original Furnishings

Original Furnishings

Marvel at the extensive collection of original furniture and artifacts that bring the 1858 home to life.

Special Events

Special Events

Experience unique events like Victorian-themed parties, ghost tours, and theatrical performances held on the grounds.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tour in Advance

Tours are highly recommended to fully appreciate the Mabry-Hazen House's rich history and artifacts. Booking ahead ensures your spot, especially for special events. Check their website for tour times and availability.

Embrace the Stories

The Mabry-Hazen House isn't just about architecture; it's about the captivating, sometimes dramatic, lives of the families who lived there. Listen closely to your guide for tales of gunfights and family sagas.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Unique themed experiences
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Meet Terry! She lived at Mabry-Hazen House in the 1950s and 60s. Evelyn, our last resident, took and keep 20+ photos of Terry, so we think she was the favorite cat. At the end of our house tours, you can peruse the Terry binder and see Terry lounging across all the furniture. #knoxville #catslovers #history #museumtok
@mabryhazen
17 likes • 1.8K views

🎯 Ask About Terry the Cat

Don't miss the stories and photos of Terry, the beloved cat who lived at the house! TikTok

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking through historic rooms and potentially exploring the grounds. Instagram

We had a great time playing at the Fourth of July celebration at the Mabry-Hazen House in downtown Knoxville yesterday! #bluegrass #uprightbass #livemusic @RedArrowRyan
@brandnewboxofmatches
32 likes • 665 views
Come on down! #mabryhazenhouse #SpookyFun #AppalachianGhostStories
terryshaw10
12 likes • 205 views

📸 Capture the Charm

The house and grounds are incredibly photogenic, especially for photographers. Instagram+1

🎶 Enjoy Live Music

Check for events featuring live music, like jazz ensembles on the lawn. TikTokInstagram

Fifth Grade students recently visited the historic Mabry-Hazen House. Students were given a private tour and learned all about the Mabry and Hazen families before, during, and after the Civil War. The afternoon was spent at the East Tennessee Historical Society and Museum. There, students learned all about individuals that were influential and significant to East Tennessee history and were able to...
tatesschool
13 likes • 240 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Ask About Terry the Cat

Don't miss the stories and photos of Terry, the beloved cat who lived at the house! TikTok

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking through historic rooms and potentially exploring the grounds. Instagram

📸 Capture the Charm

The house and grounds are incredibly photogenic, especially for photographers. Instagram+1

🎶 Enjoy Live Music

Check for events featuring live music, like jazz ensembles on the lawn. TikTokInstagram

👻 Spooky Evenings

Consider attending a ghost tour or spiritualism-themed event for a unique experience. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.7
(173 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable and passionate guides who bring the Mabry-Hazen House's dramatic family history to life. The extensive collection of original artifacts and furniture is a major highlight, offering an authentic glimpse into 19th-century life. While tours are highly recommended, some visitors express interest in attending the unique after-hours events.

"Our guide was awesome. We toured the house and learned so much about the Mabry family history. We are so glad we stopped and toured."

Shelia Strickland

"Awesome tour! Our guide was the director as the regular tour guide was unavailable. He was clearly passionate and very knowledgeable, and had great energy. Felt very personal and definitely outside of what you can learn and experience just by reading about a place/person. Definitely recommend stopping by. I can't wait to visit one of their after hour events and shows!"

Gabriella Graham

"My husband & I had a tour with Josh and he was so knowledgeable. We enjoyed not only the house but all of the stories of the residents who lived there. It was great and we would definitely recommend."

Shari Henson

What People Like

Passionate and knowledgeable guides
Extensive original artifacts
Dramatic family history

What People Dislike

Desire for more after-hours events

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mabry-Hazen House is located in downtown Knoxville, TN. It's easily accessible by car and parking is available on-site. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the downtown area. Reddit

Accessibility information can vary. It's best to contact the Mabry-Hazen House directly to inquire about specific accessibility features for tours and events. Instagram

On-site parking is typically available for visitors. For special events, additional parking might be designated nearby. Instagram

Yes, Mabry-Hazen House is located in downtown Knoxville, making it a walkable destination for many visitors staying in the city center. Instagram

The house is situated in a central Knoxville location, with easy access to major thoroughfares like I-40 and I-75. Consult a GPS for the most direct route from your starting point.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees typically apply for tours. It's recommended to check the official Mabry-Hazen House website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts. Special events may have separate ticket prices. Reddit

While walk-ins may be accommodated, booking your tour in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or for specific time slots, to guarantee your entry. Reddit

Operating hours can vary seasonally and for special events. Always check the Mabry-Hazen House official website for the most up-to-date information on tour times and opening hours. Reddit

Yes, Mabry-Hazen House frequently hosts a variety of special events, including historical reenactments, themed parties, ghost tours, and theatrical performances. TikTokInstagram+3

It's best to confirm with the venue, but purchasing tickets in advance is generally advised to avoid disappointment, especially for popular tours or events. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can take guided tours of the historic house, learn about the Mabry and Hazen families, view original artifacts and furniture, and explore the grounds. Special events offer unique experiences like live music and theatrical performances. TikTokInstagram+3

Tours usually last around an hour, providing a comprehensive overview of the house and its history. Special events may have longer durations. Reddit

Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with your tour guide or signage upon arrival. Non-flash photography is often permitted in certain areas. Instagram

Tours cover the history of the Mabry and Hazen families, their lives before, during, and after the Civil War, and significant events that occurred at the house. InstagramReddit

Beyond the guided tour, special events often include interactive elements like tarot readings, live music, and theatrical performances. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The charming pathways, mature trees, elegant porches, and the historic interior offer numerous picturesque opportunities. The grounds are particularly lovely during garden parties. Instagram+1

Generally, flash photography is discouraged inside historic homes to protect artifacts. Always confirm with your guide. Instagram

Photography policies for special events can vary. It's advisable to check the event details or ask staff upon arrival. Instagram

Early mornings or late afternoons can offer beautiful natural light. The house is also stunningly decorated during the holiday season. Instagram

It's a popular spot for wedding photography, family portraits, and general historical site photography due to its charming architecture and grounds. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mabry-Hazen House offers an engaging historical experience for families. While the primary focus is on guided tours, the stories of the families who lived there, including tales of pets like Terry the cat, can capture children's imaginations. TikTok The grounds provide space for kids to move around, and special events can offer more interactive fun. Instagram

Consider checking the schedule for family-friendly events or tours that might be particularly engaging for younger visitors. It's a great way to introduce children to local history in a tangible and memorable setting. Instagram

📸 Photographers

Mabry-Hazen House is a photographer's delight, offering a blend of historic architecture, mature landscaping, and charming details. The elegant porches, scenic pathways, and the house's facade provide stunning backdrops for portraits, weddings, and general site photography. Instagram+1

Inside, the collection of original artifacts and furniture offers unique opportunities for capturing the essence of 19th-century life. Be mindful of photography guidelines, particularly regarding flash, to preserve the delicate historical items. Instagram

👻 Ghost & Paranormal Enthusiasts

For those intrigued by the supernatural, Mabry-Hazen House occasionally hosts 'spooky' events, including theatrical seances and ghost tours. These events offer a unique glimpse into the history of spiritualism and its impact, all within the atmospheric setting of the historic home. Instagram+1

These themed evenings provide a different perspective on the house's past, blending historical narrative with elements of the paranormal. It's a chance to experience the house in a more mysterious and engaging way. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Dramatic History of the Mabry-Hazen Families

The Mabry-Hazen House is more than just a preserved home; it's a repository of fascinating, and at times, tumultuous family history. The house was built around 1858 by Alfred Washington Mabry, a prominent Knoxville businessman. His family's story is intertwined with the Civil War, a period that significantly impacted the region and the nation. Visitors often hear tales of the family's experiences during this era, including the dramatic events that unfolded within and around the property. InstagramReddit

Later, the house became home to the Hazen family, adding another layer to its historical narrative. The stories shared by guides are often described as 'soap opera-like,' hinting at complex relationships, rivalries, and even dramatic confrontations, such as a 'wild west' type of gun battle. This rich tapestry of personal histories makes a tour of the Mabry-Hazen House an engaging journey into the past, offering a personal perspective on Knoxville's development. Reddit

Beyond the human stories, the house itself is a testament to the era's architecture and lifestyle. With a significant collection of original furniture and artifacts, visitors get a tangible sense of how these families lived. The preservation efforts ensure that the house remains a vivid window into 19th-century life in Knoxville. Instagram

Experiencing Mabry-Hazen House Through Special Events

Mabry-Hazen House truly comes alive through its diverse array of special events, offering visitors unique ways to engage with history and culture. From festive garden parties with live jazz music to spooky theatrical seances, these events transform the historic grounds and house into dynamic venues. TikTokInstagram+3

These events often have themes that transport guests to different eras, such as the 1920s, or delve into specific historical interests like spiritualism and its impact on women's rights. Attendees can enjoy not only the ambiance of the historic property but also curated entertainment, food, and opportunities for 'behind the ropes' tours, offering a more intimate look at the house. Instagram+1

For those seeking a more immersive experience beyond a standard tour, attending one of these special events is highly recommended. They provide a memorable way to connect with the Mabry-Hazen House and its legacy, often drawing enthusiastic crowds eager for a unique evening. Instagram+1

Photography Opportunities at Mabry-Hazen House

Photographers will find Mabry-Hazen House to be a dream location, offering a wealth of charming and elegant backdrops. The property boasts mature trees, winding pathways, and a beautifully preserved historic house with inviting porches, making it ideal for capturing stunning images. Instagram

Whether you're a professional wedding photographer looking for a romantic setting, a family photographer seeking a picturesque backdrop, or simply an enthusiast capturing the essence of historic Knoxville, the house and its grounds provide ample opportunities. The interior, filled with original artifacts, also offers unique photographic possibilities, though flash photography is typically restricted to protect the delicate items. Instagram

For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the 'golden hours' of early morning or late afternoon for soft, flattering light. The house is also known for its festive holiday decorations, offering a magical seasonal element to your shots. Instagram

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