Head to Northeast Tennessee to be transported to a time where saber-toothed cats roamed the region; pioneers made their pilgrimage; and a different sort of “Big Bang” happened in Bristol, affecting not only the city but the entire nation. Go caving, hiking, hear stories from world-class storytellers and so much more.
Kingsport, Tennessee
Kingsport is a mountain city full of breathtaking views, outdoor hiking, animal habitats and a 300-foot zip line at Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium; eight miles of paved park trails at Greenbelt Linear Park; and an official Selfie Trail that includes sculptures, historic spots like Exchange Place and even a fire tower. Wash down the culinary options including barbecue, Italian cuisine, seafood and more with a Kingsport Original Long Island Iced Tea. Don’t leave this city without a ride on the refurbished 1956 Allen Herschell Carousel.
Bristol, Tennessee
Bristol, straddling both sides of the Tennessee-Virginia state line, is perhaps best known for the legendary NASCAR short track Bristol Motor Speedway. The town has come into its own by embracing its rich vein of musical heritage, localized entrepreneurial and artistic talents, a collective eye for revitalization and an undeniably beautiful natural setting. From scratch-made dining and the angler’s paradise that is South Holston Lake to the Smithsonian-affiliate Birthplace of Country Music Museum and a burgeoning brewery scene, you’ll want to plan a weekend or longer.
Johnson City, Tennessee
Johnson City is an outdoor enthusiast’s mecca and you don’t have to leave the city limits. Buffalo Mountain Park is a 725-acre wilderness where the slopes are steep, its hollows are deep and from the top, you can see Johnson City laid out on the valley floor below. Tannery Knobs is a mountain biking skills park coving over 40 acres of heavily-wooded terrain. After your adventure, grab a bite to eat and a brew at White Duck Taco Shop and Yee-Haw Brewing Company. Then, enjoy a night of music at one of the region’s longest-running music venues, The Down Home. This is the place to be to hear great songs among fellow music lovers.
Jonesborough, Tennessee
Jonesborough is Tennessee’s Oldest Town; and strikes a balance of offering lots to do while encouraging you to unplug and reconnect loved ones. You’ll find outdoor offerings at Persimmon Ridge Park, history at the Chester Inn Museum, a variety of culinary options from Let’s Taco Bout It, Main Street Cafe & Catering and Depot Street Brewing. Hear stories at the International Storytelling Center, known for hosting world-class storytellers.
Greeneville, Tennessee
If you want to visit one of East Tennessee’s most beautiful historic places, look no further than Greeneville, the state’s second oldest town. Greeneville is rich in United States history – it’s the home of U.S. president Andrew Johnson – and has great food options and fun attractions for all ages. Spend a night dining at farm-to-table restaurants, explore President Johnson’s tailor shop and go hiking with llamas.
To learn more about these and other memorable experiences in Northeast Tennessee, visit tnvacation.com/east-tennessee/northeast and follow @tnvacation.
