Johnson City, Tennessee: Where to Stay, Eat, and Discover in East Tennessee

• What is The Johnson City Public Library?
  • The Johnson City Public Library is a testament to the volunteer spirit of a small group of women who saw the need to share information.
• What is the history of the library?
  • The Monday Club was founded in 1895 with the purpose of promoting the study of art, history, and literature. When the town's 20 members started acquiring reference books, they sought a facility in which to house them.
• How did the library begin?
  • They started a subscription-based library and paid one of the members to be the librarian.
• Where is the library located today?
  • The library has moved several times but now has its own premises.
• What modern features does the library offer?
  • The library is computerized and circulates half a million items per annum.
• Are there meeting rooms available?
  • Yes! The library has meeting rooms for hire.
• Does the library offer outreach programs?
  • Yes! The library runs several outreach programs to schools.

100 West Millard Street, Johnson City, Tennessee 37604, Phone: 423-434-4450

• What is the Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site?
  • The Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site was established in 1784 on 45 acres by Colonel John Tipton.
• What structures were built on the property?
  • Tipton built a house and ten other buildings on the property.
• What historical events took place there?
  • Tipton was a loyalist, so a battle was fought around the farm by secessionists who wanted to break away from North Carolina.
• Who owned the property after John Tipton?
  • The house was passed to Tipton's son, who died prematurely. It was then sold to the Haynes family, who later lost it due to the Civil War.
• How did the property become a historic site?
  • The area later fell within the Tennessee borders, and the property was sold to the Tennessee Historical Commission in 1945.
• What can visitors see at the site today?
  • The site now houses a permanent exhibition, a museum shop, a library, and archives.

2620 South Roan St., Johnson City, TN, 37601, Phone: 423-926-3631

For Couples

• What is the Johnson City Community Theatre?
  • The Johnson City Community Theatre (JCCT) holds the record for the longest continuous run of productions in Tennessee.
• When was the theater group founded?
  • The theater group was founded in 1885 and has staged at least three shows per season since 1912.
• Where was the theater originally located?
  • Until 1956, the group was nomadic but later found permanent premises in the former Temple Baptist Church.
• What special events does the theater host?
  • The theater hosts an annual Rocky Horror Halloween weekend, which encourages active audience participation.
• What makes the Rocky Horror event unique?
  • Goody bags are sold for use during the performance, and patrons in the four seats on stage become part of the show.
• What educational programs are available?
  • Education programs at the theater include training in direction, design, and acting.

600 E Maple St, Johnson City, Tennessee 37601, Phone: 423-491-5053

• What is The Reece Museum?
  • The Reece Museum is part of the Center for Appalachian Studies and Services at East Tennessee State University and houses more than 20,000 artifacts.
• When and how was the museum established?
  • The museum was begun in 1920 as a class project under the direction of history professor Maxine Mathews.
• Why was the museum renamed?
  • In 1961, the name was changed when the widow of Congressman Brazilla Carroll donated his entire library, along with his congressional reports and other documents of historical significance to the museum.
• What kind of exhibits and events does the museum hold?
  • The museum holds regular exhibits and events, embracing technology by offering virtual exhibits and regular podcasts on its website.
• Is there an admission fee?
  • No! Entrance is free.

1276 Gilbreath Drive, Johnson City, TN 37614-1700, Phone: 423-439-4392

Restaurants

• What is El Charolais?
  • El Charolais Mexican Grill and Taperia is a riot of color, from the décor to the food and drinks.
• Who founded El Charolais and when?
  • Jose Luis Jauregu started the first of his three restaurants in the Tri-Cities area in 2004.
• What items are on the menu?
  • The menu includes tacos, fajitas, enchiladas, burritos, and nachos.
• What protein options are available?
  • Guests can choose from chicken, steak, pork, seafood, and vegetarian options.
• What beverages are offered?
  • During the long happy hours, guests can enjoy beers, margaritas, and tequilas to round off their meals.
• Is outdoor seating available?
  • Yes! The large deck extends the festive atmosphere outdoors.

1805 W State of Franklin Rd. #1200 Johnson City, TN 37604, Phone: 423-928-0929

• What is Beef O'Brady's?
  • Beef O'Brady's is a national franchised chain of family restaurants with the feel of an Irish pub.
• What makes Beef O'Brady's a great spot for sports fans?
  • Sports fans are well catered for with large TV screens and sports memorabilia as décor.
• What types of food are available?
  • There are daily specials featuring burgers, fajitas, tacos, and steaks.
• Does Beef O'Brady's have a bar?
  • Yes! There is a full-service bar.
• Are there gluten-free and kid-friendly options?
  • Yes! Gluten-free options and children's portions are available.
• Does Beef O'Brady's offer catering?
  • Yes! Catering is available for private functions.

2913 Boones Creek Road, Johnson City, Phone: 423-282-9464