24 Best & Fun Things To Do In Johnson City, TN

Things To Do In Johnson City, TN

 

For more than 50 years, Johnson City has served as a hub for the Tri-Cities’ economic, educational, and healthcare development.

This attractive and bustling town offers enough to see, despite not being a popular vacation destination.

These are our top 25 recommendations for enjoyable activities in Johnson City, Tennessee!

 

1. Little Chicago Downtown Arts and Music Festival

The Little Chicago Downtown Arts and Music Festival honors the culture, music, and art of Johnson City.

Since 2016, the event has been held annually and features live entertainment, food vendors, and local exhibitors.

This family-friendly event is one of the best ways to get a flavor of the local artistic community.

2. Austin Springs Spa & Salon

The Austin Springs Spa & Salon at the Carnegie Hotel offers luxurious spa treatments like massages, facials, and body wraps.

After spending the day seeing Johnson City, it’s the perfect spot to unwind.

The spa combines Old World grandeur with modern convenience to provide relaxation for families, couples, and singles.

Address: 1216 W State of Franklin Rd, Johnson City, TN 37604, United States

3. Blue Plum Festival

Every June, hundreds of people flock to the Blue Plum Festival, one of the biggest music and art events in the Southeast.

The festival includes food stalls, craft sellers, and live music on several stages.

It’s a must-attend event in Johnson City, with activities like the 5K run and art contests adding to the pleasure.

Address: 325 W Main St, Johnson City, TN 37604, United States

4. Buy Gifts

Visit the Village Antique & Home Decor Mall, which has more than 200 booths with crafts, antiques, and collectibles, for one-of-a-kind mementos.

Another fantastic location for hobbyists is HobbyTown, which offers remote-controlled automobiles, model airplanes, and toys.

You can find unique presents to bring home from these places.

5. Enjoy Nightlife and Live Music

A variety of live music venues and events are available in Johnson City’s nightlife.

The Hideaway has a grunge-punk mood with a variety of live performances, while Capone’s is renowned for its small venue and varied musical roster.

The Johnson City Symphony Orchestra frequently plays in the neighborhood, providing a sophisticated musical alternative for those seeking a more classical experience.

6. Winged Deer Park

Winged Deer Park is a 200-acre recreational area with something for everyone.

There is something for everyone in the 200-acre Winged Deer Park.

It has playgrounds, picnic spots, disc golf, volleyball courts, and beautiful walking routes.

With species like flycatchers and warblers frequently seen, the park is also a fantastic place to go birdwatching.

This park is an excellent option for guests of all ages, whether they want to take a leisurely walk or engage in some vigorous recreation.

Address: 4137 Bristol Hwy, Johnson City, TN 37601, United States

7. Go To A Brewery

Numerous breweries with distinctive tastes and sensations may be found in Johnson City.

John Henritze founded JRH Brewing, which has a taproom where guests may savor passionately made craft beers.

Yee-Haw Brewery is well-known for its award-winning Dunkel and friendly ambiance, while the Johnson City Brewing Company is well-known for its cask ales and seasonal concoctions.

Every brewery provides a relaxed setting ideal for savoring regional artisan beer.

8. Buffalo Mountain Park

A popular spot for hikers and those who enjoy the outdoors in Johnson City is Buffalo Mountain Park.

It has a variety of routes that lead to stunning vistas like White Rock, ranging from leisurely strolls to strenuous treks.

Enjoy expansive views of the city and surrounding area as you travel through forests and streams along the paths.

It’s a great place for adventure and leisure because it has picnic places and dog-friendly areas.

Address: 570 Highridge Rd, Johnson City, TN 37604, United States

9. Have Some Great Pizza

There are many excellent pizza restaurants in Johnson City that serve a variety of palates.

A local favorite since 1963, Greg’s Pizza is well-known for its ten-topping “volcano pizza” and hand-tossed dough.

In addition to other Italian cuisine, Main Street Pizza Company provides more than 50 toppings for a customizable pizza experience.

There is a pizza place in the city to satisfy any craving, whether it be for traditional or inventive pies.

10. George L. Carter Railroad Museum

A comprehensive look at the history of railroads in the Appalachian region may be found at the George L. Carter Railroad Museum.

A variety of rolling stock, souvenirs, and model trains are on display.

Special events like Heritage Days, which honor the development of railroads, are also held at the museum.

Families, history buffs, and anybody else interested in locomotives would love this place.

Address: Ross Dr, Johnson City, TN 37601, United States

11. Willow Springs Park

In Johnson City, Willow Springs Park is a lovely, tranquil retreat.

It has walking trails, open green areas, and courts for volleyball and basketball.

Dog lovers can enjoy the pet-friendly zones, while families can enjoy the playgrounds.

In addition to offering scavenger hunts and other activities, the park is a fantastic spot for both adults and children to spend a quiet day outside.

Address: 1201 Huffine Rd, Johnson City, TN 37604, United States

12. Founders Park

Founders Park is a tranquil urban environment with a picturesque brook, expansive grasslands, and walking trails.

Originally intended to regulate stormwater, it is now a well-liked meeting place for activities like yoga sessions and open-air performances.

The park is a bustling gathering place for both locals and visitors, hosting events such as the Blue Plum Festival.

Address: 225 Commerce St, Johnson City, TN 37604, United States

13. Eat Sweets and Desserts

Any sweet taste can be satiated at one of the many dessert establishments in Johnson City.

Cakebuds offers some of the best custom cakes in the state, while Petite Sweets provides interactive cake and cupcake decorating.

Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt with Dippin’ Dots make the ideal quick and enjoyable snack.

You may get a delectable assortment of desserts here, including ice cream, cupcakes, and gourmet gelato.

14. TVA Credit Union Ballpark

Baseball lovers should not miss TVA Credit Union Ballpark, home of the Johnson City Doughboys.

On certain occasions, you can watch fireworks, eat traditional ballpark fare, and see a game.

The ballpark is a wonderful adventure for all ages because it has reasonably priced tickets and a family-friendly setting.

Address: 199-131 Legion St, Johnson City, TN 37601, United States

15. Freedom Hall Civic Center

With 8,000 seats, the Freedom Hall Civic Center is the venue for athletic events, concerts, and other sizable gatherings.

Major performers including Luke Bryan and Elvis Presley have performed there, in addition to regional sporting events.

It is one of the best entertainment venues in the area thanks to its cutting-edge lighting and music systems.

Address: 1320 Pactolas Rd, Johnson City, TN 37604, United States

16. Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park

With 40 acres of trails and wooded terrain, Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park is a popular destination for cyclists of all skill levels.

The park’s trails are safe, well-maintained, and suitable for both novice and experienced riders.

Visitors may take in the picturesque vistas of Johnson City and the surrounding mountains, so it’s not only for bikers.

Address: 18 Tannery Knob, Johnson City, TN 37601, United States

17. Go Shopping

Visit the Johnson City Farmer’s Market for a locally inspired shopping experience, where you may discover handmade goods, crafts, and fresh food.

The Mall at Johnson City has a range of shops, restaurants, and yearly activities.

The Village Antique & Home Decor Mall and Johnson City Marketplace are two other well-liked shopping locations.

18. Appalachian GhostWalks Ghost History and Bigfoot Adventure Tours

Appalachian GhostWalks is a must-do for paranormal enthusiasts since it provides a distinctive blend of ghost tours and Bigfoot adventure excursions.

These lantern-led tours let guests discover the enigmatic side of Appalachia while fusing history with eerie enjoyment.

The family-friendly tours can be tailored to include lodging and meals for an exciting day of exploration.

Address: 1216 W State of Franklin Rd, Johnson City, TN 37604, United States

19. Nelson Fine Art and Frames

Nelson Fine Art and Frames features pieces by regional and local artists and blends gallery shows with art preservation.

The gallery also provides bespoke frame services and rotates shows with everything from paintings to photographs.

For those who enjoy art, it is a brief yet enjoyable visit.

Address: 205 Colonial Way, Johnson City, TN 37601, United States

20. Campbell’s Morrell Music

In Johnson City, musicians congregate at Campbell’s Morrell Music.

This store has everything you need, whether you want to purchase instruments, get them repaired, or take classes.

It serves musicians of all ability levels and provides instruction on a variety of instruments, making it a gathering place for music lovers.

Address: 118 W Market St, Johnson City, TN 37604, United States

21. Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site

The 45-acre Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site is home to a number of late 18th-century historic structures.

Documents, photographs, and archaeological relics from early American history are on display at the on-site museum.

In addition to Colonel John Tipton’s house, visitors can explore natural attractions such a spring, garden, and limestone cave.

Both history buffs and casual tourists can enjoy a serene, picturesque experience at the location.

Address: 2620 S Roan St, Johnson City, TN 37601, United States

22. Reece Museum

For for than 50 years, the Reece Museum has been conserving Appalachian history and culture.

The museum features more than 25,000 artifacts, ranging from modern artwork to historical records.

It was among the first museums in Tennessee to receive accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums. The museum often holds events and temporary exhibits, and admission is free.

Address: 363 Stout Dr, Johnson City, TN 37614, United States

23. Johnson City Community Theatre

The Johnson City Community Theatre (JCCT), which was founded in 1885, is Tennessee’s oldest theater still in operation.

Every year, the theater organization puts on a variety of events, including well-known productions like Rocky Horror Live and The Little Mermaid.

Even though JCCT is small, it hosts excellent performances and provides acting and theater design education.

It’s the ideal location for a night out with friends or a date.

Address: 600 E Maple St, Johnson City, TN 37601, United States

24. Johnson City Public Library

A group of ladies who were enthusiastic about education and literature formed the Johnson City Public Library in 1895.

These days, it distributes more than half a million items a year, including eBooks, paper books, and other digital material.

The library provides educational workshops, children’s activities, and community programming in addition to its excellent collection.

While immersing themselves in a contemporary institution with historical roots, visitors can take advantage of free access to resources and technologies.

Address: 100 W Millard St, Johnson City, TN 37604, United States

25. Tweetsie Trail

The Tweetsie Trail is a serene, picturesque route that connects Elizabethton to Johnson City over a former railroad line.

With broad, level routes appropriate for all ages and ability levels, it’s a great place for biking, hiking, and even skating.

Creeks, rock formations, and wooded areas may be found along the route, which offers a tranquil respite from the bustle of the city.

The route is available from dawn until late at night and is conveniently accessible from a number of locations.

Address: 107 Alabama St, Johnson City, TN, United States