Looking for Appalachian charm, outdoor adventure, and a walkable downtown? Head to Johnson City! Nestled in the foothills of northeast Tennessee, Johnson City blends history, craft beer, live music, and nature. Whether you’re hiking in the mountains, checking out the local arts scene, or exploring East Tennessee State University (ETSU), this vibrant town is a perfect weekend getaway in the Blue Ridge region.

Johnson City, TN Highlights:

  • For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hike or bike the Tweetsie Trail – A scenic rails-to-trails path stretching over 10 miles to Elizabethton.
  • For Music & Culture Lovers: Visit the Down Home – Legendary live music venue hosting folk, Americana, and bluegrass performances.
  • For History Buffs: Tour Tipton-Haynes Historic Site – Learn about pioneer life and Tennessee’s founding at this 18th-century homestead.
  • For Families: Explore Hands On! Discovery Center – Interactive science exhibits and the world’s most powerful fossil prep lab at Gray Fossil Site.
  • For Craft Beer Fans: Hop through local breweries – Johnson City is part of Tennessee’s beer trail with great spots like Yee-Haw Brewing and JRH Brewing.

Best Time to Visit Johnson City, TN

The best time to visit is in spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) when the weather is mild and the mountains are either in bloom or ablaze with fall color. Summers are warm and active, while winters are quiet and cozy with light snowfall.

How to Get to Johnson City, TN

  • By Car: Located along I-26, Johnson City is about 1 hour from Asheville, NC, and 1.5 hours from Knoxville, TN.
  • By Air: Fly into Tri-Cities Airport (TRI), located just 20 minutes away, with connections through major hubs.
  • By Bus: Greyhound and other regional carriers offer service from larger Tennessee cities like Nashville and Knoxville.

Where to Stay in Johnson City, TN

  • Recommended for Couples: Carnegie Hotel & Spa – Elegant, historic-style hotel with a luxury spa, dining, and easy access to downtown.
  • For Families: DoubleTree by Hilton Johnson City – Spacious rooms, indoor pool, and close to shops and restaurants.
  • For Budget Travelers: Fairfield Inn & Suites – Clean, modern hotel near ETSU and the Tweetsie Trailhead.

Best Things to Do in Johnson City, TN

1. For Lifelong Learners: The Johnson City Public Library


Browse endless books and attend fun events on an easy family-friendly visit.

For Lifelong Learners: The Johnson City Public Library

© The Johnson City Public Library

  • What is The Johnson City Public Library?
  • 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

2. For Cultural Travelers: Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site


Explore pioneer cabins and learn local history on an affordable educational trip.

For Cultural Travelers: Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site

© Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site

  • What is the Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site?
  • 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

3. For Couples: Johnson City Community Theatre (JCCT)


Watch live performances and support local talent during an exciting weekend outing.

For Couples: Johnson City Community Theatre (JCCT)

© aerogondo/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Johnson City Community Theatre?
  • 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

4. For Art Lovers: The Reece Museum


Admire regional art and discover Appalachian culture on a quick cultural stop.

For Art Lovers: The Reece Museum

© The Reece Museum

  • 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

5. For Mexican Food Fans: El Charolais


Savor flavorful Mexican dishes and enjoy a lively, affordable dinner with kids.

For Mexican Food Fans: El Charolais

© El Charolais

  • 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

6. For Casual Diners: Beef O'Bradys


Grab burgers and watch sports during a casual family meal or cheap night out.

For Casual Diners: Beef O'Bradys

© Beef O'Bradys

  • 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

If you are interested in local events:

  • For Music Fans: Blue Plum Festival (June) – Live music, local vendors, and fun for all ages in downtown Johnson City.
  • For Foodies: Meet the Mountains Festival (August) – Food trucks, craft brews, and outdoor adventure exhibits.
  • For Holiday Fun: Downtown Tree Lighting & Christmas Parade (December) – A festive celebration with music, lights, and community cheer.

Day Trip Itineraries Within 30–60 Minutes of Johnson City, TN:

  • For Hikers: Roan Mountain State Park (1 hr) – Alpine balds, scenic trails, and spring rhododendron blooms.
  • For Nature Lovers: Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park (30 min) – Historic sites, riverside trails, and Revolutionary War history.
  • For Thrill-Seekers: Nolichucky River (45 min) – Whitewater rafting, tubing, and kayaking near Erwin, TN.
  • For Scenic Drives: Blue Ridge Parkway Access (1 hr) – Wind through breathtaking mountain overlooks and hiking spots.
  • For Wine & Views: Watauga Lake Winery (1 hr) – Taste local vintages with sweeping mountain views in nearby Butler, TN.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Where is Johnson City located?
    • Johnson City is one of the Tri-Cities in the northeast corner of Tennessee. The other two cities are Kingsport and Bristol.
  • Was Johnson City always part of Tennessee?
    • The city was once part of North Carolina and is close to the Appalachian and Blue Ridge Mountains.
  • What is a unique fact about Johnson City?
    • Johnson City is also the home of Mountain Dew.
  • What natural attractions are near Johnson City?
    • The city is on the boundary of the Cherokee National Forest and is an hour's drive from Watauga Lake.
  • Does Johnson City have historical significance?
    • Johnson City had a checkered history around the time of the Civil War, and there are several historical sites that tell its story.

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