Kingsport Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Kingsport with this comprehensive tour guide including attractions, accommodations, food, transportation, and local customs.


Introduction to Kingsport

Located in eastern Tennessee, Kingsport is a city that offers visitors a blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. Known as the “Model City” for its focus on city planning and economic development, Kingsport boasts a rich history and a vibrant present. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed getaway, Kingsport has something to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Kingsport

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kingsport Renaissance Center and Art Gallery: This center hosts various art exhibitions and cultural activities throughout the year.

  • The Netherland Inn: A historic place featuring the restored home of Richard Netherland and displays of artifacts from the colonial period.

  • Museum of East Tennessee History: This museum has a wide range of exhibits that explore the history of East Tennessee, starting from pre-historic times to the present day.

Natural Attractions of Kingsport: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium: This 3,550-acre park offers walking trails, a lake, and a planetarium.

  • Warrior’s Path State Park: It has hiking trails, birdwatching areas and a golf course.

  • Laurel Run Park: An ideal spot for picnics, fishing, and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kingsport

  • Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium: There are multiple hiking trails.

  • Horn in the West: This hiking trail takes you on ridges, through oak forests, and along streams.

  • The Kingsport Greenbelt: This trail is ideal for walkers, runners, and cyclists looking for scenic views.

Best Things to Do in Kingsport: Activities and Tours

  • Kingsport Speedway: A racetrack where you can watch car races.

  • Kingsport Aquatic Center: A fun water park offering water slides, lazy river, pool to keep the entire family entertained.

  • Kingsport Fun Fest: An annual event that features concerts, carnivals and other activities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kingsport

Day Activity
1 Visit the Kingsport Renaissance Center and Art Gallery
2 Hike at Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium, and visit the planetarium
3 Visit the Museum of East Tennessee History
4 Explore the Netherland Inn and the Laurel Run Park
5 Visit the Aquatic Center and the Kingsport Speedway
6 Go on the Kingsport Greenbelt trail and have a picnic at the Warrior’s Path State Park
7 Enjoy the Kingsport Fun Fest

Food and Drink Scene of Kingsport

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kingsport Hot Dog: A hot dog that includes chili and coleslaw toppings.

  • Barbecue: Pork or chicken barbecue is loved by locals and visitors.

  • Cornbread: A traditional Appalachian dish that is often made to accompany the main course.

Local Beverages

  • Mead: made from local honey.

  • Mountain Dew: A popular soda drink that originated in Eastern Tennessee.

  • Craft Beer: Kingsport as a wide variety of craft beer places to try.

Where to Stay in Kingsport: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Marriott MeadowView: One of the most luxurious hotels, offers golf course and other amenities.

  • The Red Roof Inn: A cheaper option with cozy rooms to stay in without breaking the bank.

  • Sleep Inn and Suites: A very well-maintained hotel that offers an indoor pool and hot tub to relax in after a long day of activities.

What to Buy in Kingsport: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Pottery: Kingsport has various pottery sellers, including custom-made options.

  • Handcrafted Furniture: Local woodworkers sell handcrafted furniture pieces.

  • Moon Pies: A local baked good that is popular in the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Kingsport

  • Music: Kingsport has various local music events.

  • Festivals: There are various festivals all over the year to celebrate different occasions.

  • Hospitality: People of Kingsport are very friendly and welcoming.

Best Time to Visit Kingsport

Kingsport is enjoyable throughout the year, but spring and fall are the best seasons to visit. The climate is mild, and there are numerous outdoor activities during these times.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kingsport

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Try the local cuisine.

  • Get out and explore nature.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public areas.

  • Be loud and obnoxious in public spaces.

  • Trespass on private property.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kingsport

Kingsport is a very safe place to visit. Visitors are advised to keep their valuables locked away in hotels and cars.

Health in Kingsport

Visitors should take precautions against ticks and other pests while outdoors. Kingsport offers a variety of medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics.

Getting to Kingsport: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kingsport

  • Tri-Cities Regional Airport: The nearest airport to Kingsport, which is 20 miles away.

  • Asheville Regional Airport: Located 85 miles from Kingsport.

Bus Stations Near Kingsport

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: There’s a bus station in Kingsport that offers visitors convenient travel options.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent cars or take taxis to get to Kingsport.

How to Get Around in Kingsport

Visitors can rent cars, take taxis, or ride local buses to get around in Kingsport. The Kingsport Greenbelt is also a great network of trails for walking or biking.

Where to Go Next from Kingsport: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bristol: Known for its car races and historic sites.

  • Johnson City: Home to the famous East Tennessee State University and unique boutiques.

  • Greeneville: A charming town with a vibrant arts scene.

Conclusion

Kingsport offers a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions to visitors looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed adventure. With a wide variety of restaurants, hotels, and outdoor activities, Kingsport caters to every budget and preference. Plan your visit to Kingsport today and experience the best of Tennessee.

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