What the Locals Say

Local Guide

Ready to visit Johnson City but don’t know where to start? We asked locals what they would do with only a weekend in JC and we’re sharing the insider tips and ideas with you. This checklist will provide experiences for visitors of all interests!

1. Eat Like the Locals

You’ll find no shortage of great, local eats in Johnson City. Here’s what the locals we surveyed recommend for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Breakfast
Trust us, you won’t be disappointed. Maple Street Biscuit Company serves up comfort food with a modern twist. They’re known for their flaky buttermilk biscuits and southern sides. No trip to Johnson City would be complete without a trip to Pals. This regional favorite is known for their burgers and Frenchie fries but they also have a great breakfast menu. Cheddar rounds are a must…a creamy mix of potatoes and cheese fried to perfection (we recommend dusting them with fry seasoning)!

Lunch
With truly something for everyone, Cootie Brown’s is a popular lunch spot. The atmosphere is just as funky as the name – dine surrounded by colorful paintings and metal sculptures. Gourmet fire-roasted pizzas, authentic tamales, steaks, salads, and sandwiches are just a small portion of the globally inspired American fare. Wanting tacos with a twist? White Duck Taco might be the place for you. Locals love their unique take on tacos and that it’s located inside of YeeHaw Brewing Company. The best lunch deal in town is at Frieberg’s, for $4.99 you can get a plate full of schnitzel, cabbage and potatoes.

Dinner
Best known for their sushi, burgers and cocktails, Label is one of the most popular restaurants in town. If you go, be sure to order the garlic parmesan fries and make reservations as there is often a wait. Ready to put some south in your mouth? Southern Craft BBQ is known for their smoked meats and southern sides. Brisket, burnt end tacos and loaded tots are menu faves. Timber! showcases Appalachian roots in their fare.They serve hearty American comfort food made with locally sourced ingredients.

If you leave Johnson City hungry, you’re just not doing it right.

2. Get outside

Tweetsie Trail is the most popular and accessible trail for locals and visitors. This 10 mile rails to trails project connects Johnson City to another mountain town, Elizabethton. It’s the perfect pathway for a walk, run or bike ride. Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park is the newest trail system in town. It’s right off the interstate and just half a mile from downtown Johnson City’s breweries, shops and restaurants. Off road bike trails and an asphalt pump track offer fun for all ages and skill levels. PLUS there’s a killer view from the top! For more panoramic views, head a couple miles over to Buffalo Mountain Park. This 725 acre natural area features nearly 9 miles of trails. White Rock, Tip Top and Huckleberry Knob offer the best overlooks.

3. Have a drink

Johnson City is the king of craft beer in Northeast Tennessee. In downtown, you’ll find five local breweries in a half mile footprint. That’s in addition to the tap houses, a speakeasy and bars that feature incredible craft cocktails. Atlantic Ale House is perhaps the most popular place to grab a regional beer or cider. From their beer garden-like patio you can watch the sunset over King Commons Park and the Johnson City sign. If craft cocktails are your thing make sure to stop by Windsor Speakeasy or Sabores. Johnson City definitely serves up a local, craft libation sure to please every palate.

4. Listen to live music

Love for music runs deep in Johnson City and a live show is a must-do when you’re in town. The Down Home’s “come as you are” atmosphere has made it a treasured place to catch a show since 1976. They host a wide range of artists and even offer square dancing nights. The Willow Tree Coffeehouse and Music Room hosts performances nearly every night of the week, it’s a listening room for music lovers of all ages.

5. Visit downtown’s parks and shops

No trip to Johnson City is complete without strolling, shopping and eating your way through the ever growing downtown district. More than 20 local restaurants, two green spaces, shops, a trampoline park, retro arcade, breweries and more. There’s something for everyone downtown! Locals recommend stopping by the Farmer’s Market (Saturdays, April – October) to shop from local farmers and artisans. Go hungry and get an Auntie Ruth’s Doughnut while you’re there – yes, there will be a line…and yes, it’s worth the wait.