After years of waiting by UT students and the residents of Knoxville, the observation level of the prominent Sunsphere has reopened.

The Sunsphere, completed for the 1982 World's Fair, has remained a constant feature of the Knoxville skyline for years, yet this is the first time it has been open since 1997, when it was used as the Knoxville Welcome Center.

The observation deck of the Sunsphere offers a panoramic view of downtown Knoxville, World's Fair Park, and the University of Tennessee campus.

For those new to Knoxville, a quick tour around the interior of the Sunsphere offers information about many of the things to do and see around town.

The 266 foot structure also features several levels devoted to dining, and a restaurant is said to be opening soon.

The Sunsphere is free and open to the public. The observation level is open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.