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Blog

10 Nov

Posted at 11:25h in Blog, Blog - Featured by

11/12/2025 We love a good shopping trip to our favorite national retailers, and you'll find plenty of them here. But here's what we're really excited to share with you: Johnson City is home to a vibrant collection of locally-owned businesses that you simply won't find anywhere else. These are the places where you'll discover one-of-a-kind finds and get a real taste of what makes our community special. Tucked into our charming downtown and surrounding neighborhoods are shops that capture the creative, authentic spirit of Appalachia. Whether you're hunting for the perfect gift, upgrading your home, or just browsing for inspiration, these three Johnson City originals deserve a spot on your itinerary. Gourmet & Co. Home: Elevated Living for Every Day Walking into Gourmet &...

15 Sep

Posted at 12:22h in Blog, Blog - Featured, Explore, Family Fun by

9/15/2025 Johnson City is full of family-friendly adventures that are free or inexpensive — and still completely unique and memorable. From colorful trails to hands-on learning, fall is the perfect time to explore together without stretching your budget. Discover the Johnson City Railroad Experience Step back in time at the Johnson City Railroad Experience, where the city’s deep-rooted rail history comes to life. Explore fascinating exhibits, vintage artifacts, and model train displays that captivate visitors of all ages. With an affordable admission and plenty to see, it’s a fun, educational stop that connects families to the story of how the railroad shaped Johnson City. Adventure at Brights Zoo Brights Zoo is a hidden gem in the region, offering the chance to see rare and endangered...

21 Aug

Posted at 08:22h in Blog, Blog - Featured by

August 21, 2025 As the final weeks of summer unfold, Johnson City is buzzing with festivals that bring music, culture, and community together. From international celebrations to hometown traditions, August and September are filled with events that capture the spirit of the season. Jam in JC - August 30, 2025 Get ready for a day full of rhythm and local flavor at Jam in JC, held in King Commons. This free, all-ages music festival brings together a vibrant lineup of live performances—from bluegrass to reggae to garage punk—plus food trucks, local artists, and community energy you just can’t beat. Start your day with free yoga, enjoy acoustic jams and bluegrass sets, and stick around for headliners like The Afternooners under the downtown skies. Appalachian...

06 Jun

Posted at 15:40h in Blog, Blog - Featured by

June 6, 2025 June is National Great Outdoors Month—and there’s no better place to celebrate than in and around Johnson City, Tennessee! With everything from scenic trails and mountain overlooks to family-friendly zoos and world-famous blooms, this corner of the Appalachians is packed with ways to connect with nature. Here are just a few unforgettable outdoor adventures to enjoy this season: Tweetsie Trail Once a historic railroad route, the Tweetsie Trail now stretches 9.5 miles between Johnson City and Elizabethton as Tennessee’s longest rails-to-trails project. With a smooth crushed-stone surface and gentle grade, it’s perfect for walking, biking, running, or just soaking in the scenery—plus, you’ll cross seven bridges along the way. Buffalo Mountain Park Tucked into the north slope of Buffalo Mountain, this 725-acre park...

07 May

Posted at 10:45h in Blog, Blog - Featured, Breakfast/Brunch, Dinner, Eat, Family Dining, Fine Dining, Italian, Lunch, Only in JC, Outdoor Seating, Restaurant & Bar, Shop, Stay by

May 7, 2025 Mother’s Day is the perfect excuse to slow down and show Mom how much she means to you—and Johnson City has everything you need to make it extra special. Whether you’re planning a full weekend getaway or just a day of pampering and gift-hunting, JC’s local shops, florists, spas, and restaurants offer thoughtful ways to celebrate the moms (and mom-figures!) in your life. From handcrafted gifts to relaxing spa experiences and cozy brunch spots, here’s your guide to making this Mother’s Day meaningful—and memorable—in Johnson City. Shop Thoughtfully at Local Boutiques Skip the generic gifts and head to local boutiques like Reclaimed Home for one-of-a-kind home décor, accessories, and artisan items, or Azlinn Hope for chic apparel and stylish staples that’ll...

27 Mar

Posted at 08:17h in Blog, Blog - Featured, Eat by

March 27, 2025 When the big game is on, Johnson City has plenty of spots where you can catch every play while enjoying great food, cold drinks, and an electric atmosphere. Whether you're cheering on your favorite team or just there for the snacks, these sports bars deliver a winning experience. Here are some of the best sports bars in Johnson City to kick back and catch the action: Wild Wing Cafe A fan-favorite for wings and game-day vibes, Wild Wing Cafe serves up a variety of flavors to satisfy every craving. With plenty of TVs and a laid-back atmosphere, it's the perfect place to gather with friends, grab a cold beer, and cheer on your team. Don’t miss their signature wings and...

07 Feb

Posted at 15:03h in Blog, Blog - Featured by

February 7, 2025 Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and Johnson City sets the perfect stage for a romantic and memorable celebration. Whether you're planning an elegant dinner, a laid-back date night, or something a little different, there’s no shortage of ways to make the day special. Consider this your head start on planning the ultimate Valentine’s Day in Johnson City! Before Your Reservation Start your evening with a leisurely stroll through Founders Park, where you can explore the Phil Pindzola Biennial Sculpture Exhibition. The stunning sculptures, gentle stream and city lights create a picture-perfect backdrop for a quiet, intimate moment before heading to dinner. [caption id="attachment_11346" align="aligncenter" width="239"] "Blue Moon" by Richard Pitts[/caption] Romantic Dining in Johnson City A Valentine’s date isn’t complete without...

17 Nov

Posted at 21:18h in Blog by

November 17, 2023 Visit Johnson City this holiday season to experience the best adventures and events Northeast Tennessee has to offer. From ice skating and winter hiking to holiday light shows and Christmas markets, there's something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Things You Don’t Want to Miss Candy Land Christmas Johnson City’s Candy Land Christmas is a magical holiday event that transforms the downtown area into a winter wonderland! Named a “Top Christmas Tree Display in America'' by Fox News, this year’s display returns November 25- January 7 with over 150 vibrantly decorated christmas trees. Take a walk through Downtown Johnson City, accessible to six local craft breweries, tons of local restaurants, and shopping galore. Johnson City’s Grand Christmas Tree Lighting takes place...

17 Nov

Posted at 21:06h in Blog by

November 17, 2023 Johnson City, Tennessee is an open storybook for history buffs because of its rich history dating back to the early 1700s, when the first European settlers arrived in the area. Travel back through time, and explore the paths of those who settled Northeast Tennessee. Early Settlements Dive into exploration of Northeast Tennessee’s colonial history at the Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site, which features a restored antebellum mansion and grounds. The site includes over 40 acres and eleven historical buildings, a limestone cave, buffalo trace, and Visitor Center. In 1784, the failed State of Franklin was formed and comprised parts of Western North Carolina and what is known now as Northeast Tennessee. Colonel John Tipton became a “leading loyalist” to North Carolina, and...

17 Nov

Posted at 20:51h in Blog by

November 17, 2023 This regional hub is leading a modern arts renaissance, showcasing stunning murals and lively treasures all throughout town! Plan to experience the arts, and learn about Appalachian culture on your next visit to Johnson City, Tennessee. Johnson City's Creative Scene   Makers The city’s own Founders Park is a great place to begin your artistic journey right downtown. The Phil Pindzola Biennial Sculpture Exhibition features a variety of leased artwork, displayed alongside a peaceful walking path around the park. These sculptures add a unique and dynamic element to the city, encouraging you to explore further and pause in admiration with plenty of spots to grab a bite to eat nearby. Sculptures found here provide a sense of belonging and can be a source...

30 Oct

Posted at 18:16h in Blog by

October 30, 2023 Johnson City, Tennessee, is recognized for its accessibility to the great outdoors. This vibrant city is central to notable whitewater rivers, freshwater lakes, mountain biking trails, and countless outdoor adventures waiting to be had! Hiking & Climbing Venture out to the surrounding Mountain South in less than an hour from downtown. With spectacular views like that of Roan Mountain on the Appalachian Trail, it’s no wonder that Johnson City is the perfect basecamp for mountain adventures. Take in the mountain vistas with 360-degree views. For the more seasoned climber, Rocky Fork State Park is home to Whitehouse Cliffs. With nearly 40 developed routes, climbers can practice single and multi-pitch climbing routes with beginner and advanced ranges. Permits are required. And new...

30 Oct

Posted at 18:04h in Blog by

October 30, 2023 Welcome to Johnson City, Tennessee, where there is a distinct culture built around the food, vibrant atmosphere, and access to the great outdoors. On your next visit, explore the best brews and bites the city has to offer, rich in flavors grown from our corner of the world. Southern Cuisine Johnson City is a haven for Southern cuisine lovers, where wholesome flavors merge with comforting dishes and make you feel right at home. From juicy barbecued meats to hearty biscuits and gravy, the city’s diverse culinary landscape pays homage to traditions rooted in Southern cooking. BBQ & Wings: Southern Craft BBQ Taste Budz The Main Street Pizza Company Tipton Street Pub Wild Wing Cafe Voodoo Chicken Sandwiches & Burgers Whether you’re a seasoned...