This Southern Appalachian city boasts three forested parks, only minutes from downtown dining. Visit Kingsport for the best public parks and grab ‘n go eats on your next family vacation.
Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium
Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium is the largest city owned park and nature preserve in the state at 3,750-acres. This is a place the whole family can enjoy, with so many things to do at Bays Mountain Park. Right across from the parking lot, you’ll see a first glimpse of the park’s beautiful 44-acre lake.
Within the central confines of the park, find a nature center, planetarium, animal exhibits (including wolves, and endemic mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and raptors). Next door, there’s an outdoor adventure ropes course and zip line! The park continues to impress with miles of hiking and mountain biking trails through a forest filled with thriving populations of southern Appalachian flora and fauna.
Laurel Run Park
Laurel Run Park is located less than 20 minutes west of downtown Kingsport in Hawkins County. The park boasts 440 acres and includes a half mile of Holston River shoreline, a playground, picnic pavilions, several miles of hiking trails and so much more.
When visiting, you must check out Laurel Run Park’s main hiking trail. The park is home to dense wildflower populations, including some most rare species. In the early spring, keep an eye out for bright pops of color thanks to the Virginia Blue Bells that welcome you at the park’s entrance. You’re sure to see hillsides covered in trillium, trout lilies, phlox, larkspur, and that’s just to name a few!
Warriors Path State Park
Fifteen minutes southeast of Kingsport’s downtown, you’ll find Warriors’ Path State Park. This park, named for the Great Cherokee War and Trading Path, is composed of 950 acres and located on the shores of the Patrick Henry Reservoir.
Warriors’ Path is a Tennessee State Park well known for its boating and fishing—particularly rainbow trout, bluegill, bass, and crappie. The park is also home to an internationally renowned mountain biking scene and trail system. Other amenities include an 18-hole golf course, a forested disc golf course, a visitor center, award-winning nature education programs, and a huge playground designed for children of all ages and abilities.
If you’re looking for the freedom of spending a few nights under the stars, check out the park’s multiple campgrounds! Some sites are more rustic than others, however, grilling areas, bathrooms and hot showers are available to all campers. After spending the day exploring the outdoors, swing through downtown Kingsport to hit up some local hotspots.
Pals Sudden Service
Pals Sudden Service is a Northeast Tennessee staple. It’s a local fast food favorite, serving fast food with an efficiency you won’t find anywhere else. Plus their Frenchie Fries may or may not be dusted with fairy magic… The teal tiled buildings with giant food stuffs can be found all over the region, but the original can only be found in Downtown Kingsport. This particular one continues to stay notable, as it’s the only in-person location serving the coveted peanut butter milkshake. 😉
The Bagel Exchange
Another local favorite that can’t be overlooked is The Bagel Exchange. It is fast and simple, with a practical no-nonsense hometown feel. It’s the type of place where the food speaks for itself. If you were to ask the staff— rest assured they believe in what they’re serving, because the bagels really are that good.
The Crumbum
If you’re looking for a newer place on the scene, plan to visit The Crumbum. It’s a modern cafe complete with fresh baked pastries, coffees and espressos, along with a gallery featuring local artists. The coffee is rich and smooth, with a cheerful atmosphere to enjoy it. You can’t go wrong with a stop here before or after your outdoor adventures around Kingsport.
Article & Photography by Somer Pickel for Northeast Tennessee
There’s More Up Here!
Stay longer, and plan a visit to Historic Rogersville!
