Things to do in the Tri-Cities: Bristol, Johnson City, and Kingsport
Welcome to the center of Northeast Tennessee, where charm and adventure thrive. The Tri-Cities of Bristol, Johnson City, and Kingsport offer amazing experiences that will captivate your senses and uplift your spirit. Discover the variety of cultural offerings in all corners. Savor delectable meals, peruse handcrafted markets, or go on outdoor adventures by meandering rivers and trails. Explore the limitless opportunities and have priceless experiences, such as the ones below, in the Tri-Cities area.
01 Discover the wonders of Hands-On! Discovery Center
Explore East Tennessee's historical past through interactive displays at the Hands On! Discovery Center at Gray Fossil Site. Located in Gray, Tennessee, it's only a short drive from the Tri-Cities.
At the ETSU Gray Fossil Site & Museum, you can discover the mysteries of the area by viewing 5-million-year-old fossils, looking at paleontology labs, examining art exhibits, taking a tour of the fossil site, and much more. It's the place to be, whether you're looking for dinosaur bones or trying to solve the secrets of past civilizations.
The Hands-On! Discovery Center at Gray Fossil Site provides an exciting opportunity for visitors of all ages to learn about the prehistoric world. It's open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and closed on certain holidays.
02 Take a tour of Yee Haw Brewing Company in Johnson City
Beer lovers won't want to miss out on visiting the Yee-Haw Brewing Company in Johnson City. Participate in an event, such as Live Trivia, grab a drink on the outdoor patio, or chow on tacos or one of the many other food options.
Yee-Haw Brewing Company offers a diverse selection of drink choices, including Big Hoppa, Yee-Haw Dunkel, Blackberry Beret, Bourbon Apple Cider, Ole Smoky Peach Tea Whiskey, and Frog Juice Kombucha. It's a great chance for visitors to try different flavors and share the experience with others.
03 Explore Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park in Downtown Johnson City
Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park's varied routes, which accommodate riders of all ability levels, entice both families and outdoor sports enthusiasts. No matter how experienced you are, there's a path to discover and master for every level of rider.
Get ready to enjoy the thrill of riding across difficult terrain while admiring the magnificent scenery. With pathways designed to both inspire and challenge you, Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park is the perfect place for an active day out. Bring your loved ones along, get your gear ready, and embark on an adventure that will leave everyone with excitement and many memories.
04 Visit Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium in Kingsport
The park, which is the largest city-owned park in the state, spans 3,650 acres and offers an immersive experience. Use the extensive network of over 40 miles of scenic hiking trails to explore the nature preserve while you keep an eye out for wildlife, go biking or hiking, take a 45-minute barge ride, or engage in one of the many other possible activities.
The planetarium offers stunning celestial shows and hands-on displays. Programming changes throughout the year, but it's always a beautiful and educational experience.
Your visit to the Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium will be incredible, whether you're searching for tranquility in the outdoors or cosmic exploration.
05 A visit to the Warriors' Path State Park in Kingsport City
Warriors' Path State Park is a 950-acre state park in Kingsport, Tennessee. Visit with your entire family to embark on the endless adventure that lies ahead of you by enjoying top-notch boating and fishing opportunities on Fort Patrick Henry Lake. Kayak across the lake or cast a hook into its quiet waters in an effort to catch bass and catfish. Hikers can explore the 12 miles of scenic hiking trails leading through beautiful areas.
The park has one of the state's top disc golf courses. This 22-hole course is an excellent place to test your talents. With its scenic woodland setting and varied terrain, the course offers fun and challenges for all players.
06 Explore Bristol Motor Speedway in Bristol
Also referred to as The Last Great Colosseum, Bristol Motor Speedway is a popular oval short track in Bristol, Tennessee. The track, representing speed and spectacle in the city, spans 0.533 miles and is well-known among racing enthusiasts.
Racing fans from all over the world travel to this location for an adrenaline rush, which includes spectacular finishes that bring unforgettable memories. Experience the roar of engines as racers navigate the turns and feel the passion and excitement with hordes of other racing enthusiasts. Here, the spirit of competition comes alive.
07 Discover peculiar natural structures and landscapes at Bristol Caverns
Enjoy the historical marvels of Bristol Caverns, where time stops still and nature reigns supreme. You'll learn about the depths of this geological wonder by going on an incredible tour with some expert guides.
Explore the extensive passageways that are filled with stunning natural underground geological formations. Learn about the forces that molded these caverns into the magnificent sight that they are today. Meander through this underground realm and get engrossed in the intriguing story of its geological evolution that began hundreds of millions of years ago.
The Bristol Caverns guarantee an amazing experience with natural underground attractions and surprises around every turn.
08 A day visit to the birthplace of Country Music Museum
Visit the Birthplace of Country Music Museum to immerse yourself in Bristol's rich musical history. Although it's in Bristol, Virginia, it's mere seconds from Bristol, Tennessee.
The Birthplace of Country Music Museum offers a captivating experience for tourists interested in the history of country music. It provides a comprehensive look into the significance of the 1927 Bristol Sessions and their impact on the evolution of this genre.
Interactive displays take you back in time while showcasing the city's significant influence on county music's development. Learn about incredible artists and listen to songs you may have not yet heard.
Don't miss out on the Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion, a highly anticipated music festival in Downtown Bristol, Tennessee/Virginia. With many talented artists performing over the course of three days, this annual event has become a must-attend for many country music fans.
09 Savor local cuisine at Pal's Sudden Service
This fast food restaurant chain has been known for its quick and tasty dishes since 1956. It currently has multiple locations across the Tri-Cities. Pal's Sudden Service has established itself as a community staple by providing delicious, high-quality food while delivering friendly, speedy service.
It successfully satisfies cravings for a juicy burger, crunchy fries, or a cool milkshake. Options range from the Double Big Pal Burger and Sauceburger to the Chilibun and the Chipped Ham. Strawberry shakes, Big Tea, and orange juice are only a few of the drink options.
10 Take in the Breeze at South Holston Lake
South Holston Lake is in Northeastern Tennessee's tranquil Bristol countryside. This breathtaking destination is perfect for relaxation and adventure. With its vast expanse of lake shoreline, this haven is a dream come true for anglers, boaters, and nature lovers.
The reservoir's 7,580 acres provide a sanctuary for fly fishing. It attracts a large number of visitors thanks to its abundant trout population.
You can also take a walk by the lake and stroll along scenic Appalachian trails, where you'll see a variety of wildlife species. Alternatively, just relax on the beaches and soak up the sun while soft breezes carry all your anxieties away.
11 Indulge in outdoor activities at the Tweetsie Trail
Ride your bike or take a stroll along the stunning Tweetsie Trail near Johnson City, Tennessee. The 9.6-mile rail track follows the former East Tennessee & Western North Carolina Railroad lines. The Tweetsie Trail is a great option for outdoor enthusiasts interested in biking, riding, walking, and even horseback riding. It's a gem providing an amazing outdoor experience for everyone.
12 Check out the parks in Johnson City and Buffalo Mountain
A hidden treasure of nature, Buffalo Mountain Park is on the rocky north slope of Buffalo Mountain in Johnson City, Tennessee. The 725-acre untouched wilderness was acquired in 1994 from the U.S. Forest Service as part of a land exchange deal.
The park is an oasis for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering breathtaking scenery, high terrain, and dense trees. Whether you want to take an invigorating hike along lovely routes or have a serene picnic, you can do it at Buffalo Mountain Park.
13 Experience a mesmerizing racing moment at the Kingsport Speedway
Established in 1965, Kingsport Speedway is an exciting NASCAR-sanctioned venue that offers thrilling racing on a 3/8-mile concrete short track. Fans experience fast-paced action and exhilarating moments as cars race around the circuit. The action will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Don't miss Kingsport Speedway's exciting racing atmosphere and heart-pounding thrills.
14 Explore local festivals
Enjoy the various local festivals in the Tri-Cities area as they provide an insight into its lively sense of community.
The Johnson City Jazz Festival, a highly anticipated annual music festival in Johnson City, is one of the events that showcase the area's unique culture. It's a vibrant celebration of jazz music featuring a diverse range of styles, including Big Band and Jazz Fusion.
The exciting event, which happens every March, features performances by both renowned national artists and talented regional musicians. These local festivals offer more than just entertainment. They provide a unique chance to immerse yourself in the spirit of the Tri-Cities and engage with its incredible community.
15 Visit local art galleries and craft shops
The Tri-Cities have many local galleries and craft stores where you can discover the beautiful world of regional art and craftsmanship. Ravenworks Gallery in Johnson City is one such place where you can get art framed and view jaw-dropping work from talented artists.
Stop in one of the many other shops across the Tri-Cities, and you'll find items ranging from gorgeous jewelry and intriguing paintings to stunning sculptures and fabulous housewares made by local and regional artists.
16 Enjoy the diverse local culinary scene
The Tri-Cities is a must-visit for foodies thanks to its wide array of dining options and hundreds of restaurants from which to choose. This lively destination offers a range of cuisines, including casual Italian, classic American, old-world German, and contemporary Indian fare.
The Main Street Pizza Company in Johnson City is a popular local restaurant that's worth a visit. What sets this restaurant apart is its commitment to using fresh ingredients sourced from a local farm. It has a diverse selection of pizza varieties, including the BBQ Chicken Pizza, White Pie, and Thai Pie. Other items, such as salads, subs, and pasta, are also available.
17 Participate in outdoor adventure sports activities
Enter the thrilling realm of outdoor adventure sports in the Tri-Cities, where a wide range of sports programs are waiting for you to join.
The Tri-Cities region has sports venues for both participators and spectators. If you're looking to stay active, you can explore options such as biking, skydiving, bowling, camping, fishing, golfing, and horseback riding.
Golfers can head over to the Warriors' Path Golf Course in Kingsport. With its 18-hole layout and a par 72, this course offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels.
Those who love getting out on the water have multiple activities to consider, including taking a paddle-boarding or kayaking trip around the shores of Fort Patrick Henry Lake in Kingsport.
18 Take historical and cultural tours
Discover the interesting past of the region as you go on historical and cultural tours. These trips will take you across the Tri-Cities, where you can see the historic neighborhoods and learn intriguing facts.
Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Appalachia by visiting the Reece Museum at East Tennessee State University in Johnson City. With a collection of over 20,000 artifacts, this museum has been sharing the stories of the region for more than 80 years. From showcasing the past to highlighting contemporary art and culture, the Reece Museum offers a comprehensive experience.
19 Take scenic drives and lookouts at The Appalachian Highlands
Located at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in the northwest corner of Tennessee, the Tri-Cities offer the opportunity to take many scenic drives through breathtaking areas.
Fall is an especially spectacular season, as the leaves start changing colors into bold oranges, yellows, and reds, typically in October. Pack some of your favorite foods from local restaurants and hit the road for a beautiful experience through the Tri-Cities and beyond.
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