- The “White House” of Kingsport, Allandale has hosted thousands of events over the past two decades, including weddings, art shows, school dances, corporate meetings, Fun Fest events, and more. Enjoy a stroll on the Grand Lawn, sit under the shade of a sturdy oak, or fish in one of the ponds. The Master House features Georgian-style architecture and 95 percent of the furnishings are original. http://allandalemansion.com/
- Allen Hicks converted a barn into a venue with an open-air main floor stand and church pews. Pickers of all levels are welcome to play bluegrass music on traditional instruments...every Friday night at Allen Hicks Friday Night Jams, starting @ 6 p.m.. 1844 Bethel Road, Nickelsville, Virginia. 276-479-2739. http://www.explorescottcountyva.org/archives/event/allen-hicks-friday-night-jams-89
- The Annual Greene County Antique Farm & Auto Show takes place at the Greene County Fairgrounds. The event features crafters, food, an antique tractor parade, and much more. http://www.farmershotline.com/farm-events/greene-county-antique-farm-and-auto-show
- In 1991, the Appalachian Caverns were opened to the public as a show cave for the first time in its long and varied history. Visit for a stroll through the caverns or enjoy a picnic or go camping. For the more adventurous, sign up for an Explorer Tour or Wild Tour and do some crawling around in the undeveloped areas of the cavern. No matter whether you spend a couple of hours or a few days, you're sure to see beauty that is beyond compare. http://appacaverns.com/
– Late August, no one should miss attending the Appalachian Fair in Gray, Tennessee. You'll enjoy rides, great food, daily events, shows, live music, arts and crafts displays, a tractor pull, demolition derby, and more. Great fun for all ages. http://appalachianfair.com/
- The AQT is scenic driving marked by wooden AQT Heritage Quilt Squares. You will find beauty and tranquility along historic byways. Take a hike on the Appalachian Trail, ride the rapids, stop in the shops and artist studios, shop the fresh farmers' markets, cycle the scenic back roads, fish world-famous streams, bird watch, or explore one of the largest underground caves in the country... Whatever your interests, there are an endless amount of things to do, places to stay, and events along the way. http://www.vacationaqt.com/
– The Appalachian National Scenic Trail, generally known as the Appalachian Trail, is a marked hiking trail in the eastern United States extending between Springer Mountain in Georgia and Mount Katahdin in Maine. The trail is approximately 2,200 miles long. The Appalachian Trail is famous for its many hikers, some of whom, called thru-hikers, attempt to hike it in its entirety in a single season. Others have managed to perform a "round-trip" of the trail where they thru-hike from one end to the other and then turn around to thru-hike the trail the other way, otherwise known as a "yo-yo." Many books, memoirs, web sites, and fan organizations are dedicated to this pursuit. http://www.appalachiantrail.org/
- The Unicoi County Apple Festival has been consistently named one of the Southeast Tourism Society’s Top 20 events in the southeast and is a three-year winner of the Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association’s Pinnacle Award. The festival includes over 350 arts and crafts vendors from around the country featuring painting, photography, wood-turning, sculpture, metal crafts, jewelry, blown glass, and much more. In addition, three food courts are located throughout the festival grounds so attendees may enjoy festival foods, beverages, and specialty cuisine. Three entertainment stages featuring live music perfectly complement the arts and crafts atmosphere. A large children’s area complete with rides and activities is included in the festival for both the young and young-at heart. Wide arrays of tournaments are featured including the NFS 4-Mile Race, Farm Bureau Tennis Tournament, Erwin Record Photography Contest, Chamber of Commerce Cooking Contest, and Apple Dumpling Contest. The Apple Festival is a wonderful event for old and young alike to welcome in the autumn season. http://unicoicounty.org/apple-festival/
Arts Council of Kingsport - The Kingsport Art Guild provides opportunities to the community to study, practice, and exhibit the visual arts and promotes interest in the arts to the general public. The Guild manages an art gallery located on the 2nd floor of the Kingsport Renaissance Center. The gallery features exhibitions on a rotating basis of fine arts, fine crafts and photography from area artists and is open to the public weekdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Art Guild also offers art classes for children and adults in a variety of media, weekly "paint-in" sessions, and various competitive art shows including the Appalachian Art Show held each April. http://kingsportarts.org/
- The Barter Theatre is located in Abingdon, Virginia, opened on June 10, 1933. It is one of the longest-running professional theatres in the nation. In 1933, when the country was in the middle of the Great Depression, most patrons were not able to pay the full ticket price. Robert Porterfield, founder of the theatre, offered admission by letting the local people pay with food goods, hence the name "Barter". The original ticket price for a play was 40 cents, or the equivalent in goods. In 1946, Barter Theatre was designated as the State Theatre of Virginia. Today, Barter is one of the last year-round professional resident repertory theatres remaining in the United States. **Watch for upcoming performances in our blog. http://www.bartertheatre.com/
– Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium is a 3500-acre nature preserve and the largest city-owned park in the state of Tennessee. The park features a picturesque 44-acre lake, a nature center with a state-of-the-art planetarium theater, adventure ropes course including a 300-foot zip line, and animal habitats featuring wolves, bobcats, raptors and reptiles. Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium offers a wide variety of public programs throughout the year. Enjoy a relaxing ride on the lake, get up close and personal with some of our native animals, and relax under a star-filled sky. http://www.baysmountain.com/
- The largest privately owned house in the United States fea-turing 250 rooms is located in Asheville, North Carolina. Biltmore House, the main house on the estate, is a Châteauesque-styled mansion built by George Washington Vanderbilt II between 1889 and 1895. It is still owned by one of Vanderbilt's descendants, it stands today as one of the most prominent remaining examples of the Gilded Age. Breathtakingly beautiful, it is an attraction not to be missed. Christmas at Biltmore is spectacular and a treat for the entire family. http://www.biltmore.com/
– Enjoy a free summer concert every Friday night in down-town Kingsport. Just come out and with your friends, co-workers, and neighbors to enjoy a night out on the street. Bring your own chairs and sit in the street or on the sidewalk. There’s nothing better than a summer evening listening to Blue Grass. Don’t miss it! http://visitkingsport.com/concert-series.html
– America's longest linear park, runs for 469 miles through twenty-nine Virginia and North Carolina counties, mostly along the Blue Ridge, a major mountain chain that is part of the Appalachian Mountains. The Blue Ridge Parkway was built to connect Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. http://www.blueridgeparkway.org/
- Boone Reservoir was named for the frontiersman Daniel Boone, who played a vital role in the history of the area. Daniel Boone was a pioneer who cut a trail through the wilderness, opening up a gateway to the West. At Boone Lake there are many activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, camping, and more! Many of the marinas offer fishing boat, pontoon boat, jet ski and houseboat rentals. Some of the marinas also have a restaurant. Take your next vacation at Boone Lake. Cabin rentals, houseboat rentals, and other lodging are available around the lake for your convenience and enjoyment. http://www.tennesseelakeinfo.com/boone/
- Brights Zoo is a private, family-owned facility nestled in the hills of East Tennessee and offers a rare opportunity to enjoy visiting some rare and exotic animals including red kangaroos, spider monkeys (that will capture your heart), Bactrian camels, pigmy goats, addax, and bongo. Walk through most all of this wonderful zoo at your own pace. Enjoy daily keeper talks and special events scheduled throughout the day such as up close animal encounters and feedings. You can always pack a lunch and have a wonderful day at the zoo with the family! The picnic facilities are located near the spider monkeys, pelicans, and tapir exhibits so all can enjoy a very relaxing lunch. http://brightszoo.com/
- Nashville may be country music's capitol, but Bristol VA/TN is the birthplace. It was on State Street in 1927 that talent scout Ralph Peer made the very first country music recordings with The Carter Family, Jimmie Rodgers, and others, for the Victor Talking Machine Company. http://www.birthplaceofcountrymusic.org/
- Explore beautiful and majestic Bristol Caverns! Paved, well lighted walkways, wind through the vaulted chambers and along the banks of the ancient Underground River that carved these remarkable caverns from the hard core of the earth 200 to 400 million years ago. In the frontier days, Indians used the Underground River as an attack and escape route in their raids on settlers. You will be retracing the same warrior paths while exploring the vast rooms and arches, columns, and natural stone formations of varying size and kinds. http://bristolcaverns.com/
- Bristol Motor Speedway is the 4th largest sports venue in America and the 8th largest in the world, housing up to 165,000 people. The track is so short that speeds here are far lower than is typical on most NASCAR oval tracks, but they are very fast compared to other short tracks due to the high banking. http://www.bristolmotorspeedway.com/ and http://www.bristoldragway.com/
- The Carter Family Memorial Music Center, a non-profit organization, serves fans and supporters of old-time country and folk music through the presentation of weekly performances at the Carter Family Fold, in Hiltons, Virginia. It also honors the memory of the first family of country music, the legendary Carter Family (A.P. Carter, Sara Carter, and Maybelle Carter), whose first recordings (in 1927) are credited with giving birth to the commercial country music industry. http://www.carterfamilyfold.org/
- With its Bermuda fairways and Bentgrass greens, Cat-tails golf course at Meadow View is recognized as one of the top golf courses in Tennessee. It offers a fair, yet challenging experience, with a moderate number of sand bunkers, a winding stream, six beautiful lakes, wide fairways, and large putting greens. http://cattailsgolf.com/
– Cherokee Lake is also known as Cherokee Reservoir. It is named for the tribe of Native Americans who once inhabited the area. The great Indian warpath, once followed by Daniel Boone, crossed the basin now filled by the reservoir. Cherokee Reservoir is a popular recreation destination. Along its shoreline are public access areas, county and municipal parks, commercial boat docks and resorts, a state park, and a state wildlife management area. There are many tent and trailer sites for campers. The campground is open from April to September. http://cherokeelakeinfo.com/
- The Cherokee National Forest is your destination for outdoor recreation. Enjoy a scenic drive through the mountains, the pursuit of wildlife, the thrill of whitewater, a night under the stars, or solitude on a backcountry trail. Located in the Southern Appalachian Mountains of east Tennessee, the Cherokee National Forest is divided into northern and southern sections by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The 650,000-acre forest is the largest tract of public land in Tennessee and adjoins other national forests in Virginia, North Carolina, and Georgia. http://www.stateparks.com/cherokee.html
- Crockett's Ridge Golf Club is an 18-hole regulation length golf course in Kingsport, Tennessee. This medium-length layout features 5 sets of tee boxes for the enjoyment of golfers of all skill levels. http://crockettridgegolfcourse.com/
- In 1775, the now-legendary frontiersman Daniel Boone blazed a trail through the Cumberland Gap–a notch in the Appalachian Mountains located near the intersection of Kentucky, Virginia, and Tennessee–through the interior of Kentucky and to the Ohio River. Known as the Wilderness Road, the trail would serve as the pathway to the western United States for some 300,000 settlers over the next 35 years. Boone’s pioneering path led to the establishment of the first settlements in Kentucky–including Boonesboro–and to Kentucky’s admission to the Union as the 15th state in 1792. http://danielboonetrail.com/
- A trip to Dollywood while in Pigeon Forge, TN is a must! This great attraction has been recognized as one of the world's best theme parks, offering thrilling rides, award-winning live shows, delicious restaurants, seasonal festivals, and much more. The Dollywood theme park also offers bone-rattling roller coasters, such as the Wild Eagle, Barnstormer, Thunderhead, and Mystery Mine. There also are plenty of rides for little ones that guarantee a great time. Various restaurants include everything from full-service dining to a wide variety of concessions. While in the park you also can enjoy country, bluegrass, classic rock 'n' roll, and Southern gospel music. There's more than 30 performances daily! Plus, after a hot summer day you can go and cool down at Dollywood's Splash Country. http://www.dollywood.com/
- In the heart of Johnson City, ETSU's main campus sits on 340 beautiful acres in the shadow of Buffalo and Cherokee Mountains. Across the ETSU campus you will pass by more than 80 buildings, including academic and teaching facilities, and extraordinary library, state-of-the-art residence halls and athletic facilities, even an observatory, and an outdoor amphitheatre. The center area of campus recently underwent a transformation as a road and parking areas were removed to create the Quad, a beautiful new green space that is also home to The Veterans Memorial. http://www.etsu.edu/etsuhome/
- The Elizabethton Covered Bridge is located in downtown Elizabethton. Connecting 3rd Street and Hattie Avenue, the bridge is adjacent to a city park and spans the Doe River. http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/bridges/existing/Elizabethtonbridge.htm
- Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, nine of the ten buildings built between 1816 and 1851 are restored on their original foundations. As part of Exchange Place's commitment to preserve 19th century agricultural life, period livestock now reside on the farm. Domestic skills, including spinning, weaving, quilting, candle dipping, and basketry, are frequently demonstrated during festivals and by special arrangements. http://www.exchangeplace.info/
- The Fall Folk Arts Festival focuses on harvest time activities on an 1850's farm, pioneer arts and crafts, old timey foods and music, living history re-enactments, children's activities. Artisans demonstrate and sell a wide array of traditional folk arts, and the Harvest Market features plants, autumn produce, seasonal crafts, and lots more! http://www.exchangeplace.info/
- Owned and operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority, construction on Fort Patrick Henry Dam began in 1951 and was completed in 1953. Built primarily for hydroelectric power, the dam also ensures that there is enough cooling water for TVA's John Sevier Fossil Fuel Plant, a coal burning electric generating plant. http://www.recreation.gov/recreationalAreaDetails.do;jsessionid=E5DB7E10A384E49158C57AD5525037D6.web03-ny?contractCode=NRSO&recAreaId=1890
– Funfest is a summer festival. Fun Fest began in the fall of 1980 when Kingsport Chamber staff and board members sought to create a program that would build a positive attitude about the Kingsport community and a friendly nature among its residents. http://funfest.net/
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• Allandale Mansion
4444 W. Stone Drive
• Bays Mountain Park
853 Bays Mountain Park Road
• Boatyard Park
2001 Netherland Inn Road
• Borden Park
901 Lamont Street
• Cloud Park
717 W. Center Street
• Dale Street Mini-Park
942 Dale Street
• Dogwood Park
800 Granby Road
• Domtar Park
1414 Riverport Road
• Glen Bruce Park
Greenbelt
www.kingsportgreenbelt.com
• Hammond Park
251 Hammond Avenue
• Highland Street Mini-Park
1808 Highland Street
• Hunter Wright Stadium
800 Granby Road
• Indian Highlands Park
1814 E. Center Street
• J. Fred Johnson Park
1630 Fort Henry Drive
• Memorial Gardens
1625 Fort Henry Drive
• Ridgefields Park
601 Chippendale Road
• Riverfront Park
2201 Netherland Inn Road
• Rotherwood Park
3415 W. Virginia Street
• Sevier Avenue Mini-Park
909 E. Sevier Avenue
• V. O. Dobbins Community
300 Louis Street
• Veterans Park & Memorial J. Fred Johnson
1630 Fort Henry Dr.
http://www.kingsportparksandrecreation.org/cityparks/cityparks.htm
- Kingsport Higher Education Center is a $12 million, 54,000 square foot facility. The facility is administered by Northeast State Community College and combines the resources of Carson-Newman College, Kings University, Lincoln Memorial University, Northeast State, and the University of Tennessee under one roof. Student will be able to earn selected baccalaureate and graduate degrees from participating colleges and universities as well as associate degrees from Northeast State. http://kingsporthighered.org/higher_education.php
- Surrounded by the Smokies, the small community of Gatlin-burg, TN, is only two miles long by five miles wide, with a population of 3,500. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, surrounds Gatlinburg on three sides and has transformed it into a mountain resort destination, packed with numerous local-to-national restaurants and attractions from cycling to ziplining to whitewater rafting. http://www.gatlinburg.com/
- Natural History Museum – Northeast Tennessee has a tremendous diversity in plants and animals. At the Natural History Museum, minutes from Jonesborough, TN, you can see a shovel-tusked elephant, a semi aquatic pot-bellied rhino, a saber-tooth cat, red panda, alligator, or even a camel without humps. http://graysite1.net/
– Rated 4.5 Stars by Golf Digest Magazine is nestled in one of the most scenic regions of the East Tennessee foothills. The course is highly respected for its grooming and maintenance standards, friendly atmosphere, personal service, and reasonable rates. http://graysburghillsgolf.com/
- The Kingsport Greenbelt is a linear park that connects residential neighborhoods, traditional parks, downtown commercial districts, schools, and activity centers. A special feature of this unique park is a pathway for pedestrian and bicycle use. The pathway meanders along gentle streams, wanders through marshlands, glides across open meadows, and passes by sites of historical and aesthetic value. http://www.kingsportgreenbelt.com/
- The Greeneville Parks and Recreation Department's annual Christmas in the Park at Hardin Park. Nights in December, including Christmas Eve and Christmas, visitors can enjoy thousands of lights from 6-10 p.m. http://www.visitgreenevilletn.com/events/christmas-in-the-park-at-hardin-park/
- The mission of Hands On! is to create a dynamic, educational, fun environment which stimulates discovery, thought and understanding through interactive exhibits, programs and events in the arts, sciences and humanities. http://handsonmuseum.org/
- Healthy Kingsport is committed to helping people who live in Sullivan County make positive changes when it comes to their health. Healthy Kingsport’s primary focus is to make this area a healthier place to live, work and play through increased physical activity, healthier eating, and a reduction in tobacco use. http://www.healthykingsport.org/
– Rogersville’s historic town square is the setting for Heritage Days. The festival showcases traditional music, storytellers, and dancers, special events for the children, demonstrations of pioneer skills, antique quilts, cars and farm equipment, a juried craft show, and a food court to delight everyone! http://heritagedaysfestival.com/
- High Knob forms one of the greatest natural areas in the eastern United States that rises 4,233 feet above sea level. At its peak stood one of the few remaining fire towers of the Appalachian Mountains and it is listed in the National Historic Lookout Registry. Spectacular views await you from High Knob Lookout Tower. http://www.virginia.org/Listings/OutdoorsAndSports/HighKnobRecreationArea/
- Nestled next to the Historic Eureka Inn within the historic district of Jonesborough, the theatre performs a year-round schedule of shows that entertain theatre goers of all ages. http://www.jonesboroughtheatre.com/
- Historic Jonesborough started their July 4th event in 1970 and continues to bring festival-lovers to the mountains of East Tennessee. Come join in on the fun, whether you enjoy a parade, music, food, crafts, history, entertainment or fireworks; Jonesborough Days has it all! http://www.historicjonesborough.com/thingstodo/jonesborough-days-historic-jonesborough-tn.php
- A unique 18th century town nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of Northeast Tennessee, Jonesborough’s natural beauty, charming architecture, and storytelling heritage have attracted visitors worldwide. As you walk along Jonesbo-rough’s well preserved Main Street, you easily drop back in time to the days of Daniel Boone, Andrew Jackson, David Crockett, John Sevier, and the many other historic figures that lived in or around Jonesborough. http://www.jonesboroughtn.org/
- King University is a private university in Bristol, Tennessee. Founded in 1867, King is independently governed with covenant affiliations to the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and the Evangelical Presbyterian Church. http://www.king.edu/
- The Kingsport Aquatic Center is the region's newest and most comprehensive indoor/outdoor public aquatic and recreation facility. It features the area's only indoor Olympic-size pool plus year-round swim courses and Red Cross-certified water safety and lifeguard training. A seasonal outdoor water park offers recreational activities from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. http://www.swimkingsport.com/
- The Kingsport Ballet is a non-profit school and company. The organization provides professional instruction and performance opportunities of excellence throughout the region. Kingsport Ballet has staged world-renowned ballet classics such as Swan Lake, Giselle and Don Quixote among others. Community partnerships, award-winning outreach programs, and the organization’s arts center in downtown Kingsport round out this unique organization as a premier arts provider in the southeast. http://www.kingsportballet.org/
- The Carousel Project began as one man’s idea. Gale Joh grew up in Binghamton, NY, where a local philanthropist had endowed the community with six carousels. As a successful and prominent citizen, Mr. Joh felt that the children of Kingsport would benefit, as he did, from the joy of riding a carousel. It is a fascinating story of how the community, volunteers, and craftsmen have made this dream a reality. http://engagekingsport.com/our-programs/kingsport-carousel/
- Four churches ended up purchased the land on a circle and built their churches. Four different streets "spoke" into the circle much like a wagon wheel. Urban Design classes even have come to study this unique design. It's a proud landmark with a great piece of history as a part of Kingsport's legacy. http://www.kingsporttn.gov/church-circle
- The Kingsport New Downtown Farmers Market is an Open-Air/Seasonal farmers market, which will is open rain or shine on Wednesdays & Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. in May through October. The farmers market is located in the parking lot on the corner of Center & Clinchfield Streets. http://kingsporttn.gov/kingsport-farmers-market
- The Kingsport Mets are a minor league baseball team based in Kingsport, Tennessee. The team, which plays in the Appalachian League, is a Rookie League affiliate of Major League Baseball's New York Mets. They play at the Hunter Wright Stadium. http://www.milb.com/
- A facility that serves the community as a center for the arts and senior citizen's activities, and as a facility for business meetings, parties, receptions, classes, showers, and day-long seminars with breakout rooms. The facility includes a 350-seat theatre, three-story sky lit atrium, art gallery, gymnasium, meeting rooms, and offices. http://www.kingsportparksandrecreation.org/renaissancecenter/renaissancecenter.htm
- The Sculpture Walk is an initiative of the Kingsport Public Art Committee to introduce contemporary outdoor sculpture to the community. The Walk is a exhibit that is presented by a guest curator employed by the Committee to assemble artists from all over the country. Just call 1-423-200-3205 to access sculpture numbers for more information on each piece. http://www.kingsporttn.gov/what-sculpture-walk
- The Kingsport Senior Center is a community resource center dedicated to enriching the quality of life for area seniors, reserved for those aged 50 years old and up. It is located in the basement of the Renaissance Center at 1200 East Center Street in Kingsport. The facility includes a fitness center, a computer lab, and a pottery workshop with two kilns, basketball courts, shuffleboard, a billiards room, and a woodshop. Activities offered are exercise programs, intellectual programs, social programs, and wellness programs. Yearly dues are only $15.00 for Kingsport residents. http://seniors.kingsporttn.gov/
- This speedway has two oval tracks with concrete surfaces. One track equals three-eighths of a mile and the other one-fifth of a mile. Racing takes place March through September. http://newkingsportspeedway.com/
- The Kingsport Theatre Guild, in operation since 1947, is one of the oldest community theatres in Tennessee. Kingsport Theatre Guild offers a year-round schedule of musicals, dramas, comedies, thrillers and children's theatre, including some curriculum-related school day performances for school groups. http://kingsporttheatre.org/
- Six days a week churches in Kingsport, TN serve dinner to those in need at the Kitchen of Hope located at the Full Gospel Mission Church on Sevier St. Hours of operation: 3:30 p.m.. - 5:00 p.m. Monday thru Saturday. http://feedkingsport.org/community-food-bankspantries/full-gospel-mission-kitchen-of-hope/
- The Lamplight Theatre is a non-profit facility designed to provide quality entertainment and promote family and Christian values. The Theatre, located at 140 Broad Street, Kingsport, Tennessee, is used as a venue for theatrical productions, dinner theatre, concerts, conferences, and seasonal events. http://www.lamplighttheatre.com/
- An indoor inflatable center for kids and parents. Parents enjoy time with your kids, plus have a meal or snack while your children have leaps of fun! Parents never pay to join their kids in play. http://leapinglizardskingsport.com/
– Looking to camp near a large lake? Try Little Oak Recreation Area located on a peninsula along the eastern shore of South Holston Lake in Sullivan County. This campground has limited day-use facilities. Most of the 68 universally accessible sites have lake views and many have direct access. Little Oak is a designated Watchable Wildlife Area with two interpretive trails. A concrete boat ramp provides a popular launch site into South Holston Lake. http://www.tnvacation.com/vendors/little_oak_recreation_area/
-Milligan College is a Christian liberal arts college founded in 1866 and located in the mountains of Northeastern Tennessee and the Tri-Cities region of the state. The school is consistently ranked as one of the top liberal arts colleges in the country and well known for its core humanities program. http://www.milligan.edu/
- is a Virginia state park, centered on the Natural Tunnel, a massive naturally formed cave that is so large it is used as a railroad tunnel. It is located in the Appalachian Mountains near Duffield in Scott County, Virginia. http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/natural-tunnel.shtml#general_information
- The Netherland Inn and Complex is a historic house museum located in Kingsport, Tennessee. Built in 1802 to serve as a boat yard for salt distribution, the property was eventually sold, and became the Netherland Inn, serving travelers en route from Middle Tennessee to Western Kentucky. The inn and boatyard is the only place on the National Register of Historic Places that served as a stage stop and a boatyard. http://www.thenetherlandinn.com/
- is a public comprehensive com-munity college based in Blountville, Tennessee, offering technical education and college transfer programs in Blountville and at teaching sites in Elizabethton, Gray, and Kingsport. http://www.northeaststate.edu/
- Oktober Fest is ranked as a 'Top 50 Festival' by Blue Ridge Outdoor Magazine. The festival has more than 100 different beers to sample throughout the day. Live music will be performed throughout the day ranging from traditional German to Americana and Bluegrass. There also is an Artisan Craft Market, the Wiener Dog 'Brat Trot' Race, the College Football Bier Hall, Barrel Racing, Das Kidzone (free kids activities including blow-up houses, mini golf, juggling, craft tables and more), and a 5k race. http://kingsportoktoberfest.com/
- This grand theater, built in the art deco style, presents exciting musical, dramatic, and dance productions and a weekly concert series featuring a variety of classical and contemporary artists. Stars that have performed here include Loretta Lynn, Chet Atkins, Bill Monroe, Emmylou Harris, and Hal Holbrook. http://www.theparamountcenter.com/
- A mountain resort city in Sevier County, Tennessee. Situated just five miles north of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the attractions include Dollywood, Dollywood's Splash Country, numerous outlet malls, and music theaters. http://cityofpigeonforge.com/
- The area’s largest and most exciting bridal show; find everything you need to make the wedding of your dreams a reality at the Tri-Cities Pink Bridal Show! Gorgeous fashion shows showcasing the season’s hottest fashions for your entire bridal party! http://www.thepinkbride.com/
- Roan Mountain State Park encompasses more than 2,000 acres dominated by rich hardwood forest along rugged ridges. The cool, clear Doe River winds its way through the center of the park and supports a healthy population of trout. Wildflowers and wildlife inhabit the hollows and ridges of the Roan foothills in abundance. Visitors can hike along the creeks and ridges, tour the century-old Miller Farmstead or enjoy cross-country skiing in the winter months. There are approximately 12 miles of hiking trails and 2.25 miles of mountain bike trails. There are 30 comfortable cabins, as well as RV and tent camping at the 107-site campgrounds. http://tnstateparks.com/parks/about/roan-mountain
- For over 60 years, during the third weekend of June, this festival has taken place above the Appalachian valleys, in the gardens that are often above the clouds. The festival features handmade crafts, food, and a variety of traditional music, plus an array of old-time folkway demonstrations. http://www.roanmountain.com/festival.htm
- Museum highlights include regional historical artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries. Passing through the door of Rocky Mount, you step back in time to the year 1791. Costumed interpreters take visitors through the site and portray the Cobb family members, neighbors, and servants. http://www.rockymountmuseum.com/
- A historic, private home that is located above the Holston River in eastern Tennessee. The mansion was built in 1818 by Frederick Ross, who founded the town of Rossville, which later became Kingsport. The mansion is said to be haunted by Ross's daughter, Rowena, know as the "Lady in White". http://www.hauntedplaces.org/item/rotherwood-mansion/
- The Santa Train began in 1943 when businessmen in Kingsport, TN, wanted to show their appreciation to the people working in the coalfields. The Santa Train, travels through eastern Kentucky, southwest Virginia, and northeastern Tennessee to distribute loads of candy, toys, and other goodies to eager bystanders. Santa Claus and volunteers will deliver 15 tons of toys to thousands of Appalachian residents who live along the route. This has become a family tradition for many Kingsport residents. http://www.kingsportchamber.org/
- Scott County Horse Park is home to a wide range of equestrian events, including shows for various breeds, horse pulls and plow-offs for the draft horse enthusiasts, and trail rides through nearby Jefferson National Forest. http://schorse.org/
- The tunnel was built in the early 1920's and is one of the most famous haunted places in our area. http://southernvisions.net/?p=208
- The South Holston Lake was named after Steven Holston, an early settler of the Tennessee Valley. The lake is situated on the western edge of the Appalachian Mountains and extends from northeastern Tennessee into Virginia. About 60 % of the shoreline is bordered by the Cherokee National Forest. http://www.tennesseelakeinfo.com/southholston/
- Presented by Bristol Chapter of Speedway Children's Charities, Ford Speedway in Lights Powered by TVA is the largest holiday light show in the South. Speedway in Lights benefits programs and organizations supporting the needs of children in the Tri-Cities region by producing one of the largest holiday light shows in the country. A route of approximately four miles and two million lights provides entertainment for thousands and raises money for children. http://www.speedwayinlights.org/
- Steele Creek Park is a regional park encompassing more than 2,200 acres. There are currently 9 rental shelters, the lodge with a main room/kitchen, party room, and conference room. There are also 20 picnic tables throughout the park. http://bristoltn.org/166/Steele-Creek-Park
- Historic Jonesborough has hosted the National Storytelling Festival since 1973. With over 10,000 listeners, world-renowned tellers spin their tales in this storybook setting. Called “the leading event of its kind in America” by USA Today, the award-winning festival takes place the first full weekend of every October. http://www.storytellingcenter.net/festival/
– Sugar Hollow Park is a 400 acre park featuring three softball fields, five soccer fields, 100 picnic sites, six picnic shelters, 75 campsites, and the Waldo Miles Pavilion and pool located on Lee Highway in Bristol, Virginia. http://www.bristolva.org/index.aspx?NID=434
- Drive alongside any river or creek in Scott County and you're bound to stumble upon one of its numerous swinging suspension bridges. Currently there are 13 swinging footbridges maintained by the Virginia Department of Transportation scattered across Scott County. http://blog.virginia.org/2014/10/virginias-swinging-bridges/
- The park, located in Elizabethton, Tennessee, offers an assortment of living history, recreational programming and events for the whole family from traditional arts and craft classes to military musters. The annual presentation of Tennessee’s Official Outdoor Drama, Liberty! The Saga of Sycamore Shoals is a popular attraction. Held every July in the 240-seat amphitheater. http://tnstateparks.com/parks/about/sycamore-shoals
- Taste of Johnson City is a popular event that features some of the best restaurants in Johnson City. Held annually, you can enjoy an evening of fine food and beverage as area restaurateurs and distributors showcase their finest delicacies. http://www.johnsoncitytnchamber.com/taste-of-johnson-city
- A part of Funfest where visitors can sample foods from local vendors as well as vendors from Nashville, Asheville, and Knoxville. https://foursquare.com/v/funfest-taste-the-tri-cities/4e274220fa7682ed2309a0aa
–The site includes 45 acres, eleven historic buildings, the Tipton/Gifford/Simerly cemetery, a limestone cave, a natural spring, a buffalo trace, a nature trail, and a Visitor Center all located at 2620 S. Roan St., Johnson City, Tennessee. http://www.tipton-haynes.org/
- Tweetsie Railroad allows children and families to let their imaginations run wild and discover all sorts of fun such as rides, live shows, old fashioned fun, deer park habitat, and the trains! http://tweetsie.com/
- Twilight Alive and Bluegrass on Broad are a summer concert series staged on Broad Street in downtown Kingsport, Tennessee. Bring a chair and enjoy a summer evening with neighbors and friends. Concerts are held on during the summer on Thursdays and Fridays starting around 6:00 pm. http://visitkingsport.com/concert-series.html
- For the past 17 years, the Umoja Arts & Cultural Inc., which is comprised of approximately 20 board members, has provided Northeast Tennessee with a variety of entertaining and educational opportunities. Their mission, “to bridge and unify diverse cultures through education and artistic presentations of art, culture, and heritage” is to improve and promote the region. http://www.umojajc.org/#!umoja/ceb2
- The Virginia Creeper Trail is a 34.3-mile rail-to-recreation trail starting in Abingdon, Va., traveling through Damascus, Va. and ending just past Whitetop Station at the Virginia-North Carolina border. http://www.vacreepertrail.com/
- This 950 acre state park has plenty of outdoor activities. The park has a full-service marina and several public boat ramps available free of charge. There are biking and hiking trails, and trail horses to rent. The park also boasts one of the best disc golf courses in the state. There is camping in the park both for RV's and tents with modern amenities including a bathhouse with hot showers and an Olympic sized swimming pool. http://tnstateparks.com/parks/about/warriors-path
- Located in Elizabethton, Tennessee this lake was created by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) with the 1948 completion of the TVA Watauga Dam. The Cherokee National Forest surrounds both the Tennessee Valley Authority Watauga Reservoir and Wilbur Reservoir in an area of northeast Tennessee. http://www.tennesseelakeinfo.com/watauga/
– This wonderful aquatics facility operated by the Town of Jonesborough has rain tree and sprinkler features, a lazy river, tube slides, and family “otter” slides. It is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day seven days a week, and in late August it is open on weekends only. http://wetlandsjonesborough.com/
- The Women’s Symphony Committee held its first official meeting on March 19, 1954. Now with over 50 years of service and more than 100 members, which also include men, the WSC continues its dedication to serve the Symphony of the Mountains (SOTM). http://www.symphonyofthemountains.org/about/womens-symphony-committee/
: 3 hours away, 211 miles
Located in downtown Chattanooga next to the Tennessee Aquarium, the Creative Discovery Museum has permanent and temporary exhibits in the areas of art, science, and story times.
On top of Lookout Mountain, GA, six miles from Chattanooga, TN, Rock City Gardens is a 4,100 foot walking trail with gardens and caves. Rock City also features a “7 state view.” http://www.seerockcity.com/
1,120 feet below Lookout Mountain is an underground waterfall. The waterfall was discovered in 1928 by Leo Lambert and named after his wife, Ruby. http://www.rubyfalls.com/
One of Tennessee’s top attractions, the Tennessee Aquarium features freshwater and saltwater animals including otters, catfish, alligators, penguins and stingrays. The aquarium has a 3D IMAX theatre and river boat cruises. http://www.tnaqua.org/
: 7 hours, 491 miles
Originally the street was famous for merchants and traders moving goods along the Mississippi River. Traveling musicians began playing music on Beale Street and it became known as the “home of blues. ” Some of the famous influencers were Louis Armstrong, Muddy Waters and B.B.King. Along with jazz and blues music, Beale Street has restaurants and shops. http://www.bealestreet.com/
A Memphis BBQ institution that is world famous for their dry rub ribs. It is located blocks away from the famous Peabody Hotel and Beale Street. http://www.hogsfly.com/TheRestaurant.php
- Take an unforgettable journey through the most famous rock ‘n’ roll residence in the world: Graceland. Memphis, TN was the rock-and-roll legend’s home for more than 20 years and at Graceland you can explore the personal side of Elvis Presley. http://www.graceland.com/
- Take a historical paddleboat cruise on the “Mighty” Mississippi River. Enjoy a 90-minute cruise with commentary provided by a tour guide, an evening dinner cruise or a music cruise. http://www.memphisriverboats.net/
: 4 hours away, 280 miles
Featuring the history of country music as well as temporary exhibits, the Country Music Hall of Fame, seeks to preserve traditions and educate their audience. The museum also highlights the Hatch Print Show letterpress and historic RCS Studio B where Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton made recordings. http://countrymusichalloffame.org/
First Tennessee Park is the home of the Nashville Sounds Minor League Baseball team. The park opened in 2015 and features a unique, guitar-shaped scoreboard. http://www.firsttennesseepark.com/
The Grand Ole Opry started in 1925 as a radio show and today features live entertainment. It is called “the home of country music.” Steps away from The Grand Ole Opry is the Gaylord Opryland Resort. It is a hotel and convention center with over 15 restaurants, a spa and atriums. The resort also features Opry Mills, an outlet shopping mall. http://www.opry.com/
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bnago-gaylord-opryland-resort-and-convention-center/
, Pine Mountain, GA – 5.5 hours away, 390 miles
Callaway Gardens is a large man-made resort in the Appalachian Mountains in Pine Mountain, GA. They offer day passes to explore the grounds, buildings and gardens as well as a Butterfly Center. If you are looking for a weekend trip, packages are available that include lodging and recreational activities like biking, hiking, golf, tennis and zip lines. Callaway Gardens also hosts corporate events and team building activities. http://www.callawaygardens.com/
, Atlanta, GA – 4.5 hours away, 289 miles
Atlanta hosted the 1996 Olympics and created a public park to commemorate the event. The park hosts festivals, fundraisers and private events. An iconic feature is the Fountain of Rings, which is the world’s largest interactive fountain featuring the Olympic Ring symbol. http://www.centennialpark.com/
, Stone Mountain, GA - 4.5 hours away, 288 miles Located 30 miles outside of Atlanta, the Stone Mountain Theme Park has family-friendly activities that include rides, shows, golf and shopping. From the top of the Summit Skyline ride you can see the Atlanta skyline! http://www.stonemountainpark.com/activities
, Atlanta, GA - 4.5 hours away, 289 miles
After opening in 1997, the "Home of the Braves" has quickly become an Atlanta landmark and the benchmark for future baseball park design. Turner Field combines the nostalgia and the atmosphere of old-time baseball with state-of-the-art family entertainment unlike that of any other park. http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/atl/ballpark/index.jsp