Cover Image: Jared Kreiss
Nestled amidst the stunning Appalachian Mountains, Bristol is a prized possession of Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia with unparalleled natural beauty. The city is renowned for its rich musical legacy, world-class racing facilities, and warm hospitality, making it an ideal destination for your next big adventure.
Day One
Morning
Visiting South Holston Lake and Holston River is a great way to start your day, especially in autumn when the scenery is stunning and dotted with bright orange, red, and yellow hues. If you enjoy fishing, pack your gear, as plenty of fish are available to catch, including trout, catfish, bass, crappie, and more.
Afternoon
Fall is a great time to check out Steele Creek Park or Sugar Hollow Park. Both offer excellent hiking and walking trails and disc golf, while Steele Creek features a nine-hole golf course, a nature center, splash pad, paddle boats, and a 52-acre lake, an ideal spot for water activities.
Evening
Head to Bristol to enjoy excellent live music any night. The city has several downtown venues, such as Cascade Draft House and State Street Brewing, where you can enjoy an outstanding lineup of live music while sipping on craft beer options that rotate regularly to satisfy all your cravings.
Day Two
Morning
Awaken your senses with the warm smell of fresh baked goods. Blackbird Bakery is a wonderful place to start your day. You’ll be delighted by the variety of mouth-watering treats, from Bavarian crème donuts to jalapeño bacon Kolaches, paired with fresh-brewed coffee. If you’re in Bristol, visiting the Bristol Motor Speedway, one of NASCAR’s most popular tracks, is also a must-do.
Afternoon
Get ready to experience the great outdoors once again on the Mendota Trail. This 12.5-mile-long hiking and biking trail will take you through forests, offering breathtaking views. Head downtown to State Street, cross into Virginia, and find various specialty stores, breweries, distilleries, and antique shops. After enjoying a delicious lunch at one of the locally-owned restaurants, visit the Birthplace of Country Music Museum and discover the fascinating history of the 1927 Bristol Sessions. These sessions played a vital role in shaping the sound of country music for generations to come.
Evening
Looking for some great dinner options? Try the classic and delicious cuisine at 620 State. The Angry Italian and Machiavelli’s are two fantastic places to check out for those who love pizza. Both are renowned for their homemade offerings, with the Angry Italian serving up some outstanding Chicago-style pizza. Once you’ve enjoyed dinner, listen to live music at several downtown venues or head to the ultra-popular Bristol Casino – The Future Home of Hard Rock to try your luck at the 21 gaming tables and 870 slot machines.
