From outdoor adventures and historical sites to tasty restaurants and interesting museums, there are 14 fun things to do in the Tri Cities TN that are sure to make your trip memorable. Buffalo Mountain Park in Johnson City, Tennessee, is widely regarded as one of the top tourist attractions in the area because of its combined outdoor activities and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The park also features an impressive Planetarium, which is one of the largest and most advanced facilities in the country. In addition to its productions, Barter Theatre also offers a variety of educational experiences. With its variety of habitats, the trail is home to a wide array of birds, including warblers, vireos, thrushes, and woodpeckers. The Buffalo Mountain Park Trailhead has the Huckleberry Knob overlook while the White Rock Trail Loop Trailhead has the White Rock overlook. However, for us, the real treat is the Boundless Playground! It also features a water park with slides and a water playground for children. Read our Privacy Policy, Experience SoundWaves at Gaylord Opryland. A driving range, practice green, practice bunker and a snack bar are also on-site. Visitors can take part in a variety of activities, such as camping, fishing, kayaking, and hiking. Johnson City's Freedom Hall Civic Center is an excellent place to visit if you wish to watch various shows. Even smaller kids can handle walking there or biking if theyre able. The park is also home to a variety of historical sites that tell the story of the region. You'll find a wide variety of odd livestock such as chickens, lambs, cows, and horses at the farm. With its variety of activities and amenities, its the perfect spot for a day of family fun. An excellent spot for a bike ride is Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park in Johnson City, Tennessee. This stunning lake, nestled in the hills of east Tennessee, offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. At the Carter Family Fold, visitors can expect to find a warm and inviting atmosphere. Sign up to receive trip ideas and inspiration from Tennessee Tourism. Check your email trip inspiration will be hitting your inbox soon. The park also features a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and special exhibits. The grounds also contain the home of George Haynes, an enslaved person owned by the Haynes family. For those who enjoy the strange and esoteric, this spooky tour is here for you. The museum highlights how these recordings continue to influence country music even today. Location: 2620 S Roan St, Johnson City, TN 37601, United States Hours: 9 am 4 pm Tuesday to Saturday Cost: $5 adults, kids 12 and under are half price. This blog post is just as much for us the next time we return (Llama hiking, anyone?) From May to October, this attraction also organizes several annual festivals and other celebrations. Granville is a step back in time, a time believed lost but one that lives on in this charming, small town. There are ten other buildings on the property, including a smokehouse, pigsty, loom house, still house, springhouse, log barn, and corncrib. Whether youre looking to explore the areas history, enjoy some outdoor recreation, or just relax, theres something for everyone at the park. For those who love the thrill of competition, the Putt-Putt Fun Center also features a variety of arcade games. Whether you go for the racing or the Christmas lights, or another unique event the speedway is a really special part of the tri-cities TN area. This nature park in Kingsport is massive: over 3,500 acres with a 44-acre lake! For those looking to take a dip, the lake is perfect for swimming and boating, and there are picnic tables and grills for dining al fresco. Tri-Cities, Tennessee - Wikiwand This means that they dont need to be remeasured each time they try to go down a slide. These are the top items on our list of things to do in the Tri-Cities TN. Visitors can explore the beautiful and majestic caverns that lie far below the earths surface. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, trout, and catfish so fishing there is a lot of fun. The Bays Mountain Park is accessible 24 hours a day. Theres almost always something going on at the Exchange Place. Kingsport's weekly farmers market runs from April through November. Smashed Tri-Cites: The Best Burger Food Truck In East Tennessee That night was part of the reason we ended up getting chickens! In the spring, wildflowers provide a beautiful backdrop for nature walks. For the very brave (temperature-wise), one can walk directly up to the falls and stand almost underneath. It has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1970. When youre ready to head home, there are plenty of nearby attractions to explore. Location: 490 Hemlock Rd, Kingsport, TN 37663, United States Hours: 8 am 10 pm daily Cost: Free. He also gathered other civic leaders, volunteers, and funders to help him achieve his goals. So if youre looking for an unforgettable experience, be sure to check out the Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium of the Tri-Cities. Weve been visiting the tri-cities a few times a year for several decades. Location: Elizabethton, TN 37643, United States Hours: 24 hours daily Cost: Free, Elizabethton is almost halfway between Johnson City and Bristol. In only a short time of traveling around the Tri-Cites area, they have amassed quite a following. West from Boone, North Carolina, to the Tri-Cities area is a picturesque journey across the Appalachian Mountains. You'll pass rivers, woodlands, rock formations, and a quarry on your way to the trail's several side trips. There are several museums located nearby that feature memorabilia from the racing world. Always be ready for snow and endless splendor. If you are looking for a unique theatre experience in the Tri Cities TN, then look no further than Barter Theatre. There are 40 acres of forested terrain at Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park, thanks to a grant from Summers-Taylor construction business in 2016. The cabin was moved from Daniel Boones Wilderness Trail, where its believed Boone lived around 1775. I never took time to reflect that an area seeming so remote could have a booming brewery or vineyard scene. With the night lights and the sounds of the engines, this race is a must-see for any racing fan. Tapirs, red pandas, saber-toothed cats, shovel-tusked elephants, touch-screen computer games, and a dig pit are all on display. It is a maker space that offers membership-level access to machines and tools as well as a large space that many makers and artists do not have at home. Pro Tip: Check their website before you go to see if there are any special events going on. From Simple English Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, Images, from top to bottom, Kingsport, Johnson City, downtown Bristol, TN-VA, The Tri-Cities in Tennessee-Virginia. A significant focus of Appalachian GhostWalks is Adventure Tours, which include bigfoot hunting, ghost encounters, and historical teaching. You'll be mesmerized by the seamless melding of traditional tunes and modernity. If youre looking for a unique outdoor adventure in the Tri-Cities area of Tennessee, llama hiking is an activity that should definitely be on your radar. At The Exchange Place, visitors can experience a unique blend of culture, history, and nature. Location: 176 Ross Dr, Johnson City, TN 37614, United States Hours: 10 am 3 pm Saturdays Cost: Free. Read More 15 Best Playa del Carmen Boat Tours to Book in 2023Continue, Read More Penang vs Langkawi: Which is Better? The trail is open year-round, offering a wide variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Pro Tip: Self Guided tours are available at discounted rates. The area is characterized by small towns and a rural culture. The red dot is Kingsport, the blue is Bristol, the green is Johnson City, This area also has part of it in an connecting county or counties, Places with more than 50,000 people living in it, Places with 10,000 to 50,000 people living in it, Places with 1,000 to 10,000 people living in it, Places with fewer than 1,000 people living in it, https://simple.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Tri-Cities,_Tennessee&oldid=8699814, Pages using infobox settlement with no coordinates, Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License. The guides are knowledgeable and engaging, making sure to keep everyone entertained while also sharing fascinating stories about the areas past. It was a feeder team for the St. Louis team of the same name. Theres also a campground and cabins available for overnight stays. Its also (clearly) home to a planetarium, as well as a nature center with animal habitats. Dont do it. In addition to sporting events, some notable artists have performed here, including the Creed, Elvis Presley, and Luke Bryan. Whether youre an avid fisherman, boating enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxing day by the water, South Holston Lake has something for everyone. The museum's exhibits, which feature toy trains and model railroading engines, rolling equipment, and buildings, are enjoyed by thousands of visitors each year. The indoor facility has three multifunctional indoor pools specifically made for education and enjoyment. It includes historic prototype railroad memorabilia, toy trains, and model railroading locomotives, rolling stock, and structures. Rochester, Dover and Somersworth, HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Tri-Cities&oldid=1159911185. Its a pretty good way to honor those who have served! Take a trip around the universe from the comfort of a theater chair by catching a show at the Planetarium followed by a live tour of the night sky or participate in StarWatch at the Observatory March-April and October-November Saturday evenings. With its beautiful scenery, amazing wildlife, and educational programs, Sycamore Shoals is an experience unlike any other. The park offers a variety of educational programs including guided hikes, storytelling, and lectures. Each performance is a unique experience, featuring a talented cast and creative direction. Your visit can be memorable as guests catch a glimpse of East Tennessee's 5 million year-old past. Whether youre looking for a fun day out with the family or a romantic getaway, the center has something for everyone. This little black box is known as the up-and-coming superstar of East Tennessee. Downtown Johnson City's Tweetsie Depot houses Yee-Haw Brewing, which manufactures a wide range of beverages, including the "Pale Ale," "IPA," "Scottish Ale," "Dunkel," and "Kolsch," among others. Tri-Cities region growing as people move to area amid pandemic The tour is less than a mile long and lasts about 45 minutes, making it perfect for those who have never explored caverns before. The Kingsport Art Guild is an art gallery, studio, and office located in the Renaissance Arts Center in Kingsport, Tennessee. Swing a golf club, disc golf or ride horses. Dolan Branch Falls is pretty easy to get to by parking in the main lot near the dam. Cities in Tennessee by Population (2023) - World Population Review Discovery Center. Here, you'll witness a wide variety of animals such as deer and many kinds of birds and geese. From classic plays to original pieces, Barter Theatre offers something for everyone. Its absolutely a full aquatic center with a lot to offer! In short, the Wetlands Water Park of the Tri Cities TN is a great place to spend the day and make memories that will last a lifetime. The Putt-Putt Fun Center is open seven days a week, so you can plan your visit at any time. The Center, once the John Sevier School, was rebuilt in 1991 and currently stands as one of Kingsport's most recognizable structures. The carousel runs from Wednesday to Sunday. Location: 570 Highridge Rd, Johnson City, TN 37604, United States Hours: 7 am 7 pm daily Cost: Free. Pal's also has breakfast and quickly serves up biscuits and gravy, country ham biscuits, sausage biscuits and cheddar rounds (hash brown potatoes stuffed with cheese). So pick an activity or two from this list and get the fun started! The venue features concerts every Saturday night and Sunday afternoon, as well as special events throughout the year. But my son still loved seeing it! For those interested in learning more about the history of the area, the park also offers educational tours, providing a great way to learn more about the region. However, the list here is certainly a really great start! It is awesome. Visit Tri-Cities: Best of Tri-Cities Tourism | Expedia Travel Guide Theyre part of the Appalachian League. Its not technically in the tri-cities area. This article was written by local contributor Ashton Sanders & edited by the Travel Lens team. Visitors can take part in a variety of activities, such as exploring the local history, shopping, and dining. The team is now called the Johnson City Doughboys after the stadiums statue honoring infantrymen who died in WWI. Smashed Tri-Cities/ Facebook. All three cities are located in Northeast Tennessee, while Bristol has a twin city of the same name in Virginia. This place is no ordinary YMCA! Kingsport Renaissance Arts Center is a venue that offers services to the neighborhood as a hub for senior citizens and artistic events, as well as a place for corporate meetings, celebrations, receptions, and daylong seminars, to mention a few. The caves feature a wide variety of educational programs and activities, such as storytelling, hikes, and other activities that help visitors understand the history and culture of the area. They offer classes on a variety of topics as well as time to just show up and work on an individual project. Visitors can also take part in special events such as the annual Cave Challenge, which includes a guided tour, caving, and a special cave-related competition. All three cities are located in Northeast Tennessee, while Bristol has a twin city of the same name in Virginia. The course has 22 holes with various challenges and is considered one of the best in the state. If we lived in the area, we would absolutely be seasonal members and it was one of our favorite things to do in the tri-cities TN as a family. The Planetarium features an array of exhibits, interactive activities, and stunning shows that will take your breath away. The selected eight counties in Tennessee and two counties in Virginia include major cities in the region: Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol TN-VA. The Kingsport Aquatic Center is open year-round, and offers a variety of events and educational programs throughout the year. Thanks to the Bristol Sessions, a historic event known as the big bang of country music caused the genre to become an integral part of US culture. The Tri-Cities TN region includes the cities of Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol. The trail to the falls is about a half-mile. This is when the Carter Family, Jimmie Rodgers, and several other musicians recorded their music for the first time before becoming famous. Sharing our TOP secrets Rich history, Outdoor adventures, Family experiences, Dog-friendly fun. Tipton, a staunch supporter of the Union cause, erected eight structures on the property, including a house, and bequeathed it to his son, who died young. High-quality sound, dramatic lighting, and comfortable seats make it a worthwhile experience. Or even Charlotte. It's hard to beat a visit to the Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site in Johnson City. Appalachian GhostWalks Ghost History Bigfoot Adventure Tours offers a variety of lantern-led walking and driving tours that explore the haunted history and folklore of the East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia regions. The Tri-Cities is the area with the cities of Kingsport, Johnson City, and Bristol. Clearly, someone knows this is a great thing to do in the tri-cities TN with kids because all the visitors when we went were families. You can drive on the track and even sign your name on the checkered finish line. The caves offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore a subterranean world and learn about the areas fascinating past. The Bristol Motor Speedway experience is even more exciting during the summer months. The NASCAR Hall of Fame is a great place to visit to learn more about the history of the sport. JONESBOROUGH, Tenn. (WJHL) - Roughly one year after Tennessee Hills Distillery applied for an on-premise beer permit for its flagship Jonesborough location, town leaders have made a ruling. Find out more about Travel Lens and read our editorial guidelines. Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) is a full-service commercial airport serving Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Western North Carolina and Eastern Kentucky. You may pick from various classes, and those who live in the region or are long-term visitors may also sign up for monthly memberships that allow them entry to The Inventor Center at various levels. Visitors may also get closer to bobcats, birds, snakes, and more on-site wildlife habitats. TN 37617-6115. Then its easy to share, send or save your perfect Tennessee vacation. One of the best parts of a trip to Warriors Path State Park is the chance to learn about the history of the area. There are also plenty of restaurants and shopping opportunities in the area. Attractions by Category. The carousel is smaller than some Ive seen at the mega amusement parks throughout the US. Although its heavily wooded, the park was designed as a skills park for all ages. Location: 101 Country Music Way, Bristol, VA 24201, United States Hours: 10 am 6 pm Tuesday to Saturday; 1 pm 5 pm Sunday Cost: $13/adults; $11/kids 6-17; Free/kids 5 and under. Whether you're interested in bird watching or simply want to take a leisurely stroll, there's something for everyone at this unique trail. It is not very strenuous, so even kids have a generally easy time getting there. I was stuffed before dessert but ordered it anyway. We couldnt find a schedule, so maybe its a bring-your-own-puppets sort of thing? The Inn is filled with museum furnishings that depict an intimate study of life in one of the Souths most important American frontier settlements. For those looking to get the full experience, the museum offers a variety of packages, including tickets to the museum, lodging, and meals. Location: 1200 E Center St, Kingsport, TN 37660 Hours: 9m am 8 pm Monday through Saturday Cost: Varies. We visited the Shook Branch Swimming Area, which is the most accessible spot from Johnson City. He also asked every other day or so during our 10-day visit if we could go again. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Its a great family opportunity to work on projects for which you may not have the materials at home. Its a really good size with lots to do, with different areas divided by the intended age group. However, due to some league restructuring, the team is now a college-level summer league. With its 50-year history, the Putt-Putt Fun Center is a great place to experience the thrill of competition and the joy of spending time with family. Share. WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather However dad decides to spend this Father's Day, make sure he spends it in Tennessee. Hiking, fishing and paddle rentals for canoes, kayaks and more are ready for your enjoyment at Warriors' Path State Park. We are sorry. Spotted a mistake, have some feedback, or just want to chat with our editorial team? In addition, the falls are pretty easy to get to by car. Watauga Lake was created in the late 1940s when the Watauga and Elk Rivers were dammed. Our son was so tired he almost fell asleep in the car on the way back to our house sit! So, whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, The Exchange Place is an ideal destination to experience the best of East Tennessee. The caverns are a great place for families and adventurers to explore, offering a variety of experiences and activities that help visitors understand the importance of the areas natural and cultural history. This museum in Gray, TN was our top pick of fun things to do in the tri-cities TN as a family. It is suitable for all-day events with or without meals. The museum honors the legacy of George L. Carter, who established the Clinchfield Railroad and is devoted to the area's ancient links to railways. The property is outfitted as it would have been when the Ford family lived there; furnishings and antiques from the early 1900s were purchased or donated. The area surrounding the blue hole has some shallow rocks, so its pretty easy to wade at an ankle-deep level. This restored hotel is Kingsports oldest historical building. March 2, 2020. If you are looking for an unforgettable experience, then Barter Theatre is the perfect place for you. Its also a great spot to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The Carter Family Fold is also home to the Carter Family Museum, which contains artifacts and memorabilia related to the Carter Family's illustrious career. Visitors to Warriors Path State Park can find a variety of activities to enjoy. Jonesborough approves Tennessee Hills for beer sales with a - WJHL Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. Take a tour of the Gray Fossil Site, a natural history museum that houses some of the oldest fossilized remains of mammals in Tennessee. The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page. Whether youre looking for a place to relax and enjoy the scenery, or a place to learn about the history of the region, Sycamore Shoals is the perfect destination. The Lake is rather sprawling and winding, so there are several other excellent swimming spots further away we were told. Who wouldnt want to spend a day hiking with these fuzzy creatures? In addition to the hands-on experiences, it is also the Eastern Tennessee State University (ETSU) natural history museum. Click Here to Read More, 17 Best Cancun Resorts with Waterparks for Your Next Vacation, Hobbitenango Guatemala: The Ultimate Guide to Hobbiton in Guatemala, 17 Best Cenotes near Playa del Carmen + Secret Tours, 15 Best Playa del Carmen Boat Tours to Book in 2023, Penang vs Langkawi: Which is Better? Catch some esteemed NASCAR racing at this race track complex. (Are you seeing an outdoor trend in this list of things to do in the tri-cities TN yet?). 20 Cool Things to Do in the Tri-Cities TN with Kids (2023) Journal Communications Inc./Michael Dominic Tedesco, Journal Communications Inc./David Duplessis, Where to Get Pancake Stacks in the Smoky Mountains. He told me for years that there are some really cool things to do in the tri-cities TN. Pack a camera and take advantage of the many hiking trails and scenic overlooks in the area. 14 Fun Things To Do In The Tri Cities Tn - QuartzMountain For the most part, this center serves as a multi-purpose venue for everything from concerts to sporting events. The park's rope course, which features a 300-foot zip line, is open to visitors, and the planetarium, which features cutting-edge exhibits, is a great way to cap off an exciting day. The nearby town of Kingsport is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, so you can make a day of it. If youre looking for a fun activity for the family, look no further than the Putt-Putt Fun Center of the Tri Cities TN. Choose your own Tennessee vacation and discover new food, classic whiskey, rockin' music, and so much more. Fun Fact: Visitors to the 62-acre farm get to see cattle, chickens, draft horses, pigs, buggy horses, and even sheep. Tap Add to Trip on anything you like. We love animals, history, and unique family adventures. Feel comfortable exploring and shopping in their temperature-controlled space, have simple access to parking, and enjoy filling your bags with one-of-a-kind products. The airport is governed by the Tri-Cities Airport Authority (TCAA) whose members are . If you want to spot wildlife, take the footbridge from the parking lot below the dam to Osceola Island where you can walk a one-mile-loop wildlife trail. With neighboring breakout rooms and space for 200 people, the theatre makes a perfect venue for meetings and seminars. Location: 18 Tannery Knob, Johnson City, TN 37601, United States Hours: 7 am 10 pm daily Cost: Free. Our Offbeat Life is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program as well as other affiliate programs. The tours are also a great way to meet other adventurers and learn about other areas in the area, such as the nearby Cherokee National Forest. The goat cheese appetizer did me in. The Inn faces the Old Stage Road in the heart of Kingsports Boat Yard Park, which served as a migratory spot for settlers to build boats for their westward trip during the mid-1700s. There are also many activities that can be enjoyed at the speedway. The museum also offers a variety of events throughout the year, including live music performances, lectures, and workshops. It might be tempting to skip the tri-cities area on your way to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Asheville. But that's not all Bays Mountain Park has to offer. Enjoy the great outdoors while learning something new at Bays Mountain Park! As a hiking destination, it has well-defined paths that are easy to follow, frequently affording views of the city as you traverse forests and streams in the hilly area. During the month of August, Bristol Motor Speedway hosts the Night Race. Regional Museum, the Gray Fossil Site and Museum, the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, and the Gray Fossil Site and Museum. Family Summer Events in Tri Cities, Tennessee - LinkedIn Tennessee's Tri-Cities (Johnson City, Kingsport and Bristol) are a wealth of adventure, music and time travel. The main house, schoolhouse, blacksmith forge, barns, and granary are accessible to visitors. This museum in Bristol is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Museums in Washington, DC. The mixing station allows guests to give old songs a fresh spin, the sing-along station will enable them to become the next big thing in music, and the Bristol Session Playlist allows them to hear new takes on Bristol Session tracks. Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park is a skills park for riders of all levels and all ages. Volunteers from the Mountain Empire Model Railroader organization run the model railways at the museum. The building has a 350-seat theater, a three-story atrium with skylights, an art gallery, a gym, meeting spaces, and workspaces. Take a track tour to get an up-close look at the track, dragway and even the winner's circle. South Holston Lake is a reservoir located on the border between Tennessee and Virginia. Youll see the volunteers slopping pigs, feeding chickens, shearing sheep, and tending to all sorts of other chores. Location: 1212 Suncrest Dr, Gray, TN 37615, United States Hours: 10 am 5 pm Monday to Saturday; 1 pm 5 pm Sundays Cost: $11 for everyone 4+.