Bristol TennesseeATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bristol, Tennessee.
1. Bristol Motor Speedway
THE LAST GREAT COLOSSEUM
Bristol Motor Speedway is a top destination for NASCAR fans and motorsport enthusiasts, known as 'The Last Great Colosseum.' The speedway hosts major racing events throughout the year, drawing thousands of visitors to experience the thrill of high-speed competition. Visitors can tour the facility, attend races, or participate in special events held at this iconic racing venue.
2. Birthplace of Country Music Museum
MUSIC HISTORY COMES ALIVE
The Birthplace of Country Music Museum showcases the rich heritage of country music's origins in Bristol. The museum features interactive exhibits, rare recordings, and artifacts that tell the story of the 1927 Bristol Sessions, often called the 'Big Bang' of country music. Visitors can immerse themselves in the sounds and stories that shaped American musical history.
3. Bristol Caverns
UNDERGROUND NATURAL WONDER
Bristol Caverns offers visitors a fascinating underground adventure through ancient limestone caves. These stunning caverns feature rock formations, underground streams, and a rich geological history dating back millions of years. Guided tours take visitors along well-lit pathways that follow the course of an ancient underground river that carved these remarkable caves.
4. Downtown Bristol District
HISTORIC STATE STREET
Downtown Bristol District is centered around the iconic Bristol Sign that straddles the Tennessee-Virginia state line. The vibrant area features unique shops, local restaurants, and historic architecture that showcases the city's heritage. Visitors can enjoy live music venues, art galleries, and special events while experiencing the charm of this dual-state downtown.
5. South Holston Dam
ENGINEERING AND RECREATION
South Holston Dam is an impressive TVA hydroelectric structure that creates South Holston Lake, a popular recreational destination. The dam offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake from its observation areas. Visitors can learn about the dam's history and function while enjoying fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities in the area.
6. Steele Creek Park
NATURE IN THE CITY
Steele Creek Park is Bristol's largest city park, offering over 2,000 acres of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The park features hiking trails, a 52-acre lake for fishing and boating, and a nature center with educational exhibits. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas, playgrounds, golf, and seasonal activities in this expansive outdoor setting.
7. Lost State Distilling
CRAFT SPIRITS EXPERIENCE
Lost State Distilling is a craft distillery producing small-batch spirits in downtown Bristol. The distillery offers tours and tastings where visitors can learn about the distillation process and sample their handcrafted bourbon, gin, and other spirits. The modern tasting room provides a comfortable space to enjoy specialty cocktails made with their award-winning products.
8. Paramount Bristol
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
Paramount Bristol is a beautifully restored historic theater that has been entertaining audiences since 1931. The venue hosts concerts, films, comedy shows, and other performances in its elegant art deco setting. Visitors can appreciate both the architectural beauty and the cultural significance of this centerpiece of Bristol's entertainment scene.
9. The Pinnacle
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
The Pinnacle is a large outdoor shopping center offering a diverse mix of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. The complex features major national retailers, specialty shops, and a variety of dining establishments from fast-casual to sit-down restaurants. Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment including a movie theater all in one convenient location near the speedway.
10. Bristol Train Station
HISTORIC TRANSPORTATION HUB
Bristol Train Station is a historic railway station originally built in 1856 that played an important role during the Civil War. The beautifully restored building now serves as an event venue and community landmark that showcases the city's transportation history. Visitors can admire the impressive architecture and learn about the station's significant place in Bristol's development.
11. South Holston Lake
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
South Holston Lake is a pristine 7,580-acre reservoir offering exceptional recreational opportunities for visitors. The lake is renowned for its excellent fishing, particularly for bass and trout, as well as boating, swimming, and water sports. Surrounded by mountains and forests, the scenic lake provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
12. Pins & Friends
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTER
Pins & Friends is a modern entertainment center offering bowling, arcade games, and other family-friendly activities. The venue features state-of-the-art bowling lanes alongside a variety of interactive games and attractions suitable for all ages. Visitors can enjoy food and beverage service while participating in fun activities that make for a perfect family outing or group gathering.
13. Tennessee Welcome Center
GATEWAY TO THE STATE
The Tennessee Welcome Center serves as an informative first stop for travelers entering the state. The center provides maps, brochures, travel information, and friendly staff to help visitors plan their Tennessee adventures. Clean facilities, picnic areas, and displays highlighting regional attractions make this a practical and welcoming resource for tourists.
14. Bays Mountain Park
NATURE AND EDUCATION
Bays Mountain Park is a 3,550-acre nature preserve and environmental education center located near Bristol in Kingsport. The park features a 44-acre lake, planetarium, nature center, and wildlife habitats including a wolf sanctuary. Visitors can explore over 39 miles of hiking trails, enjoy barge rides on the lake, and participate in educational programs about astronomy and natural history.
15. Warriors' Path State Park
RECREATION FOR EVERYONE
Warriors' Path State Park offers diverse recreational activities on the shores of Fort Patrick Henry Lake near Bristol. The 950-acre park features boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and an award-winning mountain bike trail system. Families particularly enjoy the Boundless Playground, designed to be accessible for children of all abilities, and the park's golf course and sports facilities.