Welcome to the Center for Financial Wellness, where good vibes meet great savings! While we dedicate ourselves to providing programming throughout the academic year, we encourage our Vols to also get involved around campus and beyond. From vibrant campus activities to nearby attractions, there is always something exciting to do without breaking the bank.
On Campus Adventures
UT is bustling with events year-round. Enjoy free movie nights at the Student Union, engage in spirited games at our recreational facilities, or join one of the many student organizations that cater to your specific interests. The Volunteer Spirit ensures there’s never a dull moment! For a comprehensive overview of campus-sponsored events, check out calendar.utk.edu.
Sports and Recreation
No surprise here! Us Vols LOVE game days. Embracing Volunteer sports doesn’t have to drain your bank account. Check out these fun ways to enjoy UT Sports & Recreation.
UT Athletics are on the rise, and there’s no better way to show your school spirit by cheering on your fellow Vols! Experience the thrill of game day at Neyland Stadium with student tickets priced at just $20. Best of all, you can enjoy all other sporting events on campus for free. UT sporting events are affordable ways to make unforgettable memories.
From intramural sports, group workouts, and off-campus adventure trips to relaxing by the pool and grabbing a snack at Jamba Juice, TRECS is the choice for affordable fitness and fun. Students are free to enjoy these amenities without breaking the back— all you will need is a validated UT ID or RecSports membership card.
As one of three state botanical gardens in Tennessee, the UT Gardens showcase the latest research and education in horticulture. They provide green spaces for learning, exploring, and relaxing— all at no cost to visitors. Students can also opt for a $15 membership to gain access to additional opportunities and exclusive members-only perks and events. The UT Gardens present an affordable way to connect with nature and enhance your Vol experience!
Art and Culture
We Vols have a deep appreciation for the arts! You don’t need to spend a fortune to dive into UT’s vibrant cultural scene. Discover these budget-friendly ways to enjoy art and culture on campus.
The Clarence Brown Theatre has been a cornerstone of the East Tennessee arts community since 1970. As a UT student, you have the opportunity to capture a free preview of each limited showing. Don’t fret if you miss your chance for a free preview, because tickets are priced at just $5 for all other performances. Clarence Brown Theatre is an affordable way to enjoy top-notch performances and dive into the vibrant arts scene at UT!
The Natalie L. Haslam College of Music hosts over 200 performances and events each year. Best of all, all concerts are free and open to the public. The College of Music is an excellent way to enjoy high-quality tunes and support fellow Vols without spending a dime!
Discover a world of adventure and history at the McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture. McClung exhibitions showcase Tennessee’s geologic, historical, and artistic past while also highlighting cultures from around the globe. Because the McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture offers free admission to the public, it’s an enriching way to enjoy your time on campus without worrying about your wallet.
Since 1981, the Ewing Gallery of Art + Architecture has been a vibrant space on UTK’s campus. This professionally managed university gallery is a fantastic place for students and the community to connect with art— all for free. Enjoy artistic exploration without breaking the bank at the Ewing Gallery of Art + Architecture.
UT Libraries— Hodges, Pendergrass, and DeVine— boast extensive print and electronic collections, research assistance, and technology support. In addition to allowing access to library collections, Hodges Library is home to the Medberry Makerspace. Vols can use their library access to learn about and use textile, fabrication, and arts & crafts tools. UT Libraries are dedicated to providing enriching and inclusive activities while keeping students’ budgets in mind.
Exploring UT’s Backyard: City of Knoxville
Dive into the vibrant life of Knoxville with a plethora of affordable activities and events perfect for students and families. From art exhibitions and live music to outdoor adventures and community festivals, there’s always something exciting happening on Rocky Top! For an overview of all Knoxville has to offer, visit visitknoxville.com.
Discover affordable fun at the Market Square Farmers Market, held every Wednesday and Saturday from May to mid-November. With nearly 100 vendors offering a variety of fresh, local products— ranging from seasonal fruits and vegetables to artisan crafts— all sourced within a 150-mile radius of Knoxville, it’s a must-visit spot for everyone! Visit the Market Square Farmers Market for a budget-friendly experience that supports local growers and artisans!
Explore the Neyland Greenway, a 3.0-mile stretch perfect for walking, running, bicycling, and more. As part of an 18-mile network of connected greenways, it’s accessible from dawn until dusk. You can also find water play fountains, playgrounds, and blueways along the route. Visit Neyland Greenway for great times and even greater savings!
The Knoxville Museum of Art is a vibrant cultural hub that celebrates the rich visual heritage of East Tennessee. Conveniently located just a short distance from campus and boasting free admission, it’s an ideal destination for an affordable high-end experience away from campus.
World’s Fair Park, perfectly tucked between campus and Downtown Knoxville boasts attractions like the iconic Sunsphere, offering stunning panoramic views from its observation deck. Originally created for the 1982 World’s Fair, this park transformed an old rail yard into a hotspot for innovation— think Petro’s Chili & Chips and the debut of Cherry Coke! Whether you’re into soaking up history or catching a concert, this is the perfect place for students to explore without breaking the bank.