Spring is blooming in Bristol, making it the ideal time for your next adventure. This charming city straddles both Tennessee and Virginia, offering a unique blend of culture and cuisine. Explore a plethora of locally-owned restaurants and hotels, each promising unforgettable experiences that capture the essence of Bristol’s vibrant spirit.
Day 1
Morning
Start your day with some fantastic bagels from Bristol Bagel in downtown Bristol. The choices are many, the food is homemade, and there’s no chance you’ll leave hungry. Then check out downtown Bristol, where you can explore a variety of attractions and activities like the Bristol Sign!
Afternoon
Grab lunch at Bistro on the 6th, which features a regionally sourced, farm-to-table inspired menu with Southern roots, or Eatz, home cooking at its finest, where the fried chicken, meatloaf, and catfish are in high demand.
Evening
If you have room for dessert, don’t miss Southern Churn, offering hand-churned fudge, ice cream, classic candies, and old-fashioned sodas. Then, return to The Bristol, recognized as one of Travel and Leisure’s Top 10 hotels in the U.S., for a restful stay. Indulge in a meal at Vivian’s Table, or venture down the street to Union 41 for a culinary experience that will elevate your trip. To cap your evening, visit Michael Waltrip Brewing, Cascade Draft House, or Lost State Distilling to enjoy your favorite beverage.
Day 2
Morning
Bloom is the perfect spot to kick off your morning with yummy biscuits and gravy, a burrito, omelet, or quiche.
Afternoon
After enjoying a trip to the Birthplace of Country Music Museum or Bristol Motor Speedway, grab lunch at any number of locally owned jewels, including Delta Blues, Stateline Bar & Grille, or Bristol Café & Market, then enjoy a sweet treat from Blackbird Bakery.
Evening
After some shopping at The Pinnacle, dinner at 620 State, Mad Greek, or Machiavelli’s would hit the spot, but you can also enjoy Aubrey’s, Walk-ons, Drakes, Outback, Buddy’s BBQ, Chicken Salad Chick, and more at The Pinnacle. Other hotels to consider are The Sessions in downtown Bristol, where you can feast at Southern Craft, and Nicewonder Farm and Vineyards, where you can stay and treat yourself to fine dining at Hickory. Additional hotel options include Delta, Courtyard, Hilton Garden Inn at Exit 7, Fairfield Inn and Hampton Inn at Exit 74, and gorgeous Airbnb lofts in downtown Bristol or cabins near South Holston Lake.
Hidden Gem
Award-winning Ridgewood Barbeque is the pride of the region, and if you love BBQ, it is an absolute must!
