10 Fun Things To Do Near Kingsport, Tennessee (Sullivan County)
Looking for a relaxing getaway in East Tennessee?
Kingsport, TN is one of those friendly mountain towns that still feels real and down-to-earth. It’s tucked into
Sullivan County in the Tri-Cities area, not far from Virginia and North Carolina.
If you love outdoor adventures, small-town charm, and good Southern food, you’ll feel right at home here.
Below are
10 things to do in and around Kingsport, Tennessee that are perfect for families, couples, and road-trippers.
1. Explore the Trails and Views at Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium
If you only have time for one thing in Kingsport, make it
Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium.
This 3,500-acre nature preserve is one of the largest city-owned parks in the country. It feels like a state park, but it’s just a short drive from downtown Kingsport.
Highlights include:
- Over 40 miles of hiking and biking trails
- A beautiful mountain lake with a dam built in the early 1900s
- Live animal habitats with wolves, bobcats, otters, and birds of prey
- A very good planetarium with shows about the night sky
On my first visit, I remember standing quietly near the wolf habitat just after feeding time. The whole pack started howling, and the sound rolled across the hills. It’s the kind of moment that sticks with you.
If you’re traveling with kids, the
barge ride on the lake and the
planetarium shows are both big hits. Just check hours and show times before you go.
2. Walk, Bike, or Paddle Along the Kingsport Greenbelt
The
Kingsport Greenbelt is a paved trail that winds for about 8 miles along the
Holston River and
Reedy Creek. It’s flat, easy, and very family-friendly.
You can:
- Walk or jog a short section
- Bike the whole thing end to end
- Stop at little parks, bridges, and river overlooks
It’s a great way to see a different side of Kingsport. Locals use it all the time for morning walks and evening bike rides.
If you enjoy photography, bring your camera. On a foggy morning, the river views feel almost like a movie scene.
3. Step Back in Time at Exchange Place (Living History Farm)
Just outside Kingsport,
Exchange Place is a restored 19th-century farm and trading post. It shows what life was like in the early 1800s, when this area was a stop on the old stagecoach road.
You’ll find:
- Original log buildings and a blacksmith shop
- Heritage farm animals and heirloom gardens
- Seasonal events like spring garden fairs and fall harvest festivals
If you love history or old-time crafts, this is a must-do. Kids enjoy seeing the animals and learning how people lived before electricity and phones.
Try to visit during one of their bigger events. The place really comes to life with music, food, and demonstrations.
4. Tour the Birthplace of Country Music (Just Up the Road in Bristol)
About a 30–40 minute drive from Kingsport, the
Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol is absolutely worth the trip.
In 1927, the famous “Bristol Sessions” recorded some of the first commercial country music. Today, the museum tells that story with:
- Interactive exhibits and listening stations
- Old recordings and instruments
- Stories about early country, bluegrass, and gospel artists
Even if you’re not a die-hard country fan, it’s fascinating to see how much modern American music grew out of this tiny corner of Appalachia.
On your way back to Kingsport, you can literally stand with one foot in Tennessee and one in Virginia on Bristol’s State Street. It’s a fun photo stop.
5. Hit the Water at Warriors’ Path State Park
Just southeast of Kingsport on Fort Patrick Henry Lake,
Warriors’ Path State Park is a favorite local spot for camping and water fun.
Here you can:
- Rent a boat or launch your own
- Fish for bass and crappie
- Swim at the park’s pool (seasonal)
- Explore easy to moderate hiking trails
- Play a round of golf at the on-site course
If you’re traveling with children or grandkids, don’t miss the
Darrell’s Dream Boundless Playground. It’s designed for kids of all abilities, with a storybook trail, treehouse, and sensory areas. It may be one of the most creative playgrounds in Tennessee.
Camping here and driving into Kingsport for meals or shopping makes a fun weekend combo.
6. Stroll Through Downtown Kingsport & Grab a Bite
You don’t have to be outdoorsy to enjoy Kingsport.
Downtown Kingsport has been steadily growing with local shops, restaurants, and breweries.
You can:
- Browse antique stores and local boutiques
- Grab coffee at a cozy café and people-watch
- Try local craft beer or Tennessee barbecue
- Check out murals and public art scattered around downtown
On certain evenings, you may catch live music, food trucks, or special events. The downtown farmers market and summer concerts are especially popular with locals.
If you like small Southern cities that feel walkable and friendly, you’ll enjoy a few hours downtown. It’s also a good base if you’re staying in Kingsport and doing day trips around Sullivan County.
7. Drive the Scenic Route on the Kingsport–Bristol–Johnson City Loop
Sometimes the journey really is the destination. From Kingsport, you can easily drive a
scenic loop through the Tri-Cities: Kingsport, Bristol, and Johnson City.
Here’s a simple idea:
- Start in Kingsport
- Head to Bristol for the Birthplace of Country Music Museum and State Street
- Continue to Johnson City for lunch or dinner
- Return to Kingsport through the rolling hills of East Tennessee
Along the way you’ll pass:
- Green pastures and old barns
- Views of the Appalachian foothills
- Plenty of chances to pull over for photos
If you enjoy relaxed road trips and back roads more than interstate highways, this loop will be right up your alley.
8. Discover Local Culture at the Kingsport Carousel & Parks
One of the sweetest surprises in Kingsport is the hand-carved
Kingsport Carousel at the Kingsport Farmers Market area.
Local artisans spent years carving and painting each animal. It’s not just for kids either—adults ride it all the time.
Pair the carousel with:
- A walk through nearby parks and Greenbelt sections
- A stop at the farmers market when it’s open
- A picnic under the trees on a sunny day
If you’re traveling with family, this is one of the most affordable and charming things to do in Kingsport. It also makes a nice, low-key break between bigger adventures like Bays Mountain or Warriors’ Path.
9. Go Underground at Bristol Caverns or Appalachian Caverns
If you’re up for a little cave exploring, there are several
caverns near Kingsport that make great half-day trips.
Two popular options:
Both offer guided tours through cool, underground passages where you’ll see:
- Stalactites and stalagmites
- Clear underground pools
- Unusual rock formations
On a hot, humid Tennessee day, stepping into a 55-degree cave feels amazing. Just bring a light jacket and wear shoes with good grip, since the floors can be damp.
Kids usually love the “Indiana Jones” feeling of going underground, and the guides share stories about how these caverns formed over thousands of years.
10. Take a Day Trip to South Holston Lake or Watauga Lake
If you’re staying in Kingsport for several days, consider a
lake day trip. Both
South Holston Lake and
Watauga Lake are reachable in about an hour to an hour and a half, depending on your route.
Why go?
- Clear mountain water perfect for swimming and boating
- Marinas where you can rent pontoons or kayaks
- Pretty coves and shorelines for picnics and photos
Each lake has its own personality:
- South Holston Lake – Known for its fishing and scenic spots near the Tennessee–Virginia line.
- Watauga Lake – Feels wilder and more tucked into the mountains, with some truly stunning views.
After a full day on the water, it’s an easy drive back to your hotel or rental in Kingsport, where you can grab dinner downtown and plan your next adventure.
Planning Your Trip to Kingsport, Tennessee
Here are a few quick tips to make your
Kingsport, TN visit smoother:
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall for cooler temps and colorful scenery; summer for lake and river fun.
- Getting around: You’ll want a car. Many of the best things to do near Kingsport are spread across Sullivan County and beyond.
- Who it’s great for: Families, couples, outdoor lovers, budget travelers, and anyone who enjoys small-town Southern charm.
Kingsport is one of those places where you can do a lot—or do almost nothing at all. Hike in the morning, grab barbecue for lunch, then watch the sun go down over the hills. It’s simple, but that’s the beauty of it.
What Would You Add to This Kingsport Bucket List?
Have you visited
Kingsport, TN or other spots in
Sullivan County?
- Did you discover a favorite hiking trail?
- Find an amazing local restaurant or coffee shop?
- Stumble onto a small festival or event?
Share your tips and stories in the comments so other travelers can find new things to do near Kingsport.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who loves road trips in the USA or is planning a visit to East Tennessee. Your shares and comments help keep guides like this going—and might just inspire someone’s next great getaway.
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