How We Play

Simply put, it just doesn’t get much better than Bristol. Considered one of the most picturesque cities in the Southeast, it is certainly an inviting place to play. Showcasing more than 40 square miles of inland lakes, rivers, and freshwater streams in the area, including South Holston Lake and Holston River, Bristol is an outdoorsman’s paradise.

The South Holston Lake reservoir, known near and far for its smallmouth bass fishing, features plenty of fishing holes, while the weir dam is one of the premier flyfishing destinations in the country. A prime destination for boaters, jet skiers, kayakers, and canoers, South Holston has long been one of Bristol’s most valued assets.

Steele Creek Park, which encompasses more than 2,100 acres and boasts numerous hiking and biking trails around the lake, along with paddleboats, a nature center, and a golf course, is just one of the city’s many parks. Bristol Caverns, carved from the earth 200 to 400 million years ago, offers an unforgettable underground experience, while the city offers up several excellent golf courses to enjoy.

The second most visited attraction in Tennessee, BMS, also known as The Last Great Colosseum, hosts two NASCAR weekends every year, while Bristol Dragway has long been one of the most popular stops on the NHRA circuit.

The Birthplace of Country Music Museum, an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institute, tells the story of Bristol’s musical heritage, which began with the 1927 Bristol Sessions. The 24,000 square foot facility documents Bristol musical roots’ story through permanent, technology-infused exhibits, a special exhibits gallery, educational programs, film experiences, and a theater dedicated to live music performances.

Bristol features one of the most unique downtown areas in the country as State Street famously straddles the Tennessee-Virginia state line. The city, which welcomes visitors with the famous “Bristol, A Good Place To Live” sign, offers a wonderful mix of restaurants, nightlife, specialty shops, antique stores, and entertainment venues, such as the historic Paramount Center for the Arts. Downtown Bristol is also the site of the annual Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion music festival, which takes place every year in September and the historic Bristol Train Station.

The Pinnacle is the region’s premier lifestyle shopping destination. The outdoor shopping complex is anchored by national retailers like Bass Pro, CARMAX, the region’s largest Belk, and Best Buy and includes a great selection of eateries, from fast food to sit down dining, along with unique entertainment opportunities like Pinnacle 12 – Marquee Cinemas Megaplex theater.