Things to Do in Kingsport, Tennessee: Discover Adventure, History, and Southern Charm in the Appalachian Highlands

Explore the Great Outdoors at Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium

No trip to Kingsport is complete without spending a day at Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium, one of the city’s most beloved attractions. Spanning over 3,500 acres, this nature preserve offers a mix of outdoor adventure, wildlife exhibits, educational experiences, and scenic beauty.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring the park’s 40 miles of hiking and biking trails, which wind through lush forests, past lakes, and along mountain ridges. You can also go boating or kayaking on the 44-acre Bays Mountain Lake, or simply relax with a picnic surrounded by nature.

One of the park’s standout features is its state-of-the-art planetarium, where visitors can enjoy fascinating shows about astronomy and space exploration. Don’t miss the nature center, home to exhibits on local wildlife, including wolves, bobcats, deer, and birds of prey.

Bays Mountain is a place where adventure meets education, making it a favorite destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone who wants to reconnect with the great outdoors.

---

Step Back in Time at Exchange Place

For a glimpse into the region’s pioneer past, head to Exchange Place, a living history farm that transports visitors back to the early 19th century. This historic site once served as a self-sufficient plantation and trading post, where goods were exchanged rather than purchased with money — hence the name.

Today, Exchange Place preserves that legacy with authentic buildings, period demonstrations, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can explore the original farmhouse, kitchen, blacksmith shop, and barns, as well as see heritage livestock and heirloom gardens. Costumed interpreters bring history to life, sharing stories about frontier life and traditional crafts.

The site also hosts seasonal events, including the Spring Garden Fair and the Fall Folk Arts Festival, which feature artisans, food vendors, and live demonstrations. It’s one of the best places in Kingsport to experience the area’s rich heritage and gain a deeper appreciation for early Appalachian life.

---

Take a Stroll Through Downtown Kingsport

If you want to experience the heart and soul of the city, there’s no better place than Downtown Kingsport. This vibrant district blends historic charm with modern energy, offering a perfect mix of shopping, dining, entertainment, and culture.

Start your visit with a leisurely walk down Broad Street, where you’ll find local boutiques, artisan shops, and cozy coffee houses. Stop by Bloom Boutique for trendy fashion, browse handcrafted goods at Up Against the Wall Gallery, or hunt for antiques and vintage treasures.

Downtown is also a hub for arts and culture. Check out the Kingsport Carousel, a hand-carved masterpiece located in Carousel Park, or explore the Renaissance Arts Center & Theatre, which hosts concerts, plays, and art exhibitions throughout the year.

Don’t forget to stop by one of the many locally owned restaurants and breweries, where you can enjoy everything from classic Southern comfort food to creative farm-to-table cuisine. In the evening, the downtown area comes alive with live music, outdoor events, and nightlife — perfect for a night out on the town.

---

Enjoy Family Fun at Warriors’ Path State Park

Located just a short drive from the city center, Warriors’ Path State Park is another must-visit outdoor destination. Named after the historic trail used by Native Americans and early settlers, this 950-acre park offers a variety of activities for all ages.

The park’s lake and marina are perfect for boating, fishing, and paddleboarding, while miles of hiking and biking trails wind through beautiful forests and along scenic ridges. There’s also a championship-level golf course for those who enjoy a day on the greens.

Families will especially love Darrell’s Dream Boundless Playground, one of the most inclusive playgrounds in the region. The park also features a horseback riding trail, disc golf course, and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for a full day of outdoor fun.

Whether you’re looking to hike, relax, or enjoy a lakeside picnic, Warriors’ Path offers something for everyone — all set against the stunning backdrop of East Tennessee’s natural beauty.

---

Discover Kingsport’s Past at the Netherland Inn

History buffs will love exploring the Netherland Inn, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Built in the early 1800s along the Holston River, the inn served as a crucial stop for travelers, riverboat captains, and pioneers heading west along the Great Stage Road.

Today, the Netherland Inn is a beautifully preserved museum showcasing period furnishings, original artifacts, and exhibits on river travel and pioneer life. Guided tours provide fascinating insight into the daily lives of early settlers and the importance of Kingsport as a transportation hub.

The inn is part of the Netherland Inn/Exchange Place Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visiting here is like stepping back in time — and it’s an essential stop for anyone interested in the stories that shaped Kingsport’s past.

---

Experience the Thrill of Fun Fest

If you’re visiting Kingsport in the summer, you won’t want to miss Fun Fest, one of the city’s biggest and most beloved events. Held every July, this nine-day festival celebrates community spirit with a jam-packed schedule of concerts, parades, food events, races, fireworks, and family activities.

Fun Fest attracts thousands of visitors each year and features something for everyone — from hot air balloon rides and outdoor movies to live performances by nationally known artists. Highlights include the Fun Fest Parade, Taste of Tri-Cities, and the Sunset Concert Series, which bring the city together in a celebration of music, food, and fun.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Fun Fest is the perfect way to experience the best of Kingsport’s community pride and Southern hospitality.

---

Explore the Creative Side at Kingsport Art Guild and Gallery

Art lovers will find plenty to appreciate at the Kingsport Art Guild and Gallery, a cornerstone of the city’s thriving arts scene. Located in the Renaissance Arts Center, the gallery showcases works by regional artists, including paintings, sculpture, photography, and mixed media.

In addition to exhibitions, the guild offers workshops, art classes, and community events designed to inspire creativity and connect artists with the public. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just appreciate beautiful works, a visit here offers an inspiring look into Kingsport’s creative heart.

---

Hit the Links at Cattails at MeadowView Golf Course

For those who enjoy golf, Kingsport is home to one of the most scenic courses in East Tennessee — Cattails at MeadowView Golf Course. This 18-hole championship course is part of the MeadowView Marriott Conference Resort and is known for its challenging layout, rolling fairways, and stunning mountain views.

The course is suitable for players of all skill levels, and its professional-grade facilities make it a popular choice for tournaments and events. After a round of golf, you can relax at the clubhouse or enjoy a meal at the resort’s restaurant overlooking the course.