If you’re looking for an entertaining night out with family and friends, look no further because JRH Brewing has you covered. Located just a stone’s throw away from the main strip of downtown Johnson City, JRH has quickly grown to be one of the top breweries in Northeast Tennessee.
Since opening their doors in 2016, JRH has developed a craft beer menu that would please the palates of even the most experienced craft beer enthusiast. A local favorite is the Tree Streets Pale Ale, which was named after the historic neighborhood where JRH is located.
With different events taking place throughout the week, JRH has created a fun environment that is enjoyable for the whole family. Every Tuesday night, JRH hosts an axe throwing league. You may ask “What is an axe throwing league, and how does that pair with craft beer?” Grindin’ Axes is a new business in Northeast Tennessee that offers a mobile axe-throwing activities for a variety of events. Grindin’ Axes is the brainchild of co-owners Paul Wingfield and Jason Jones. The duo’s first gig was Johnson City’s 2018 Meet the Mountains Festival. And, after seeing the lines of people eager to participate, Paul and Jason knew they were on to something.
Grindin’ Axes is the first business of its kind in Northeast Tennessee, and is also the only affiliate of the World Axe Throwing League within a three hour radius. Each season is typically eight weeks, meeting once weekly, with a goal to complete in the world championship. “Axe Master” Josh Hyder says they have future plans of a permanent set up at JRH. “It would work almost like a bowling alley, where you come in and rent a lane for a certain amount of time,” Hyder said. “Initially, we are planning to include up to five lanes.”
Along with the axe throwing league, JRH normally hosts a local food truck. The night I was there, Hokie Smokie Brisket & BBQ catered to customers outside the brewery. After working up an appetite from trying my hand at axe throwing, I decided to order a Hokie Smokie BBQ sandwich, with their signature sauce and side of cole slaw. The sandwich itself was massive and overflowing with rich, tender barbecue. Needless to say, the whole meal was enough to hit the spot perfectly.
While You’re There
Once you have tested your skills at axe throwing, stick around for “Bikes and Pints” hosted by JRH every other Tuesday at 7 p.m. in partnership with Trek bicycle shop. Learn something new about biking, meet new friends, and win awesome swag while enjoying a frosty pint of the good stuff.
For additional trip ideas in Johnson City, go to visitjohnsoncitytn.com.
Written by Trevor Rice for Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association.
