The Complete Guide to Visiting Bristol, Virginia

Find music, history, and outdoor adventure around every corner when you travel to Bristol, Virginia. 

A unique city that sits right on the Southwest border of Virginia, Bristol is nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. Visitors can literally cross historic State Street to enter Tennessee, and there’s plenty to discover throughout the twin cities.

From uncovering America’s folk history at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum to waterskiing on South Holston Lake, there’s something for everyone in Bristol.  

THE BEST TIMES TO VISIT BRISTOL

The beautiful scenery and pleasant temperatures make autumn an ideal time to visit Bristol. Experience the history and future of music, find treasures from local artisans, and take in the fall foliage on an outdoor adventure. 

Racing fans should consider April and August as well—each year, the Bristol Motor Speedway in Tennessee hosts two NASCAR races. The Food City 500 is typically held in April, while the Bass Pro Shops Night Race is near the end of August. 

WHERE TO STAY

The Bristol Hotel: Blend Music, History, & Dining $$

This 65-room boutique hotel is the first of its kind in Bristol. The Classical Revival building’s history stretches back to 1925. Your stay at The Bristol Hotel includes complimentary admission to the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. 

The Sessions Hotel: Entertainment Complex with Historic Charm $$

You’ll find this iconic hotel at the State Street entrance to Bristol’s historic downtown. The Sessions Hotel is made up of several 1910s and 20s buildings—the Bristol Grocery Building, Jobbers Candy Factory, and Simply Grand Granary Mill—and still contains the early 20th-century charm along with luxurious accommodations. 

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol: Stay and Play $$

Book a stay at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol and you’ll enjoy a variety of on-site amenities and opportunities, from trying your hand in the casino to rocking out at a concert. There’s also an indoor and outdoor heated pool, a spa, and several eateries. 

Nicewonder Farm: Relax at a Luxurious Vineyard $$$

Guests at Nicewonder can stay in well-appointed boutique suites and rooms or relax under a canopy of trees in a luxury yurt. The property also offers a variety of packages, whether you’d like to explore the romantic delights of the vineyard with your partner or need a rejuvenating escape at the spa. 

Sugar Hollow Campground: Stay Under the Stars $ 

The 75 camping sites at Sugar Hollow Campground accommodate all kinds of recreational vehicles and provide access to water, electric, cable television, and Wi-Fi. There are two shower houses on the campground, which is open April through October. 

WHERE TO EAT

Burger Bar

This classic diner has been a Bristol institution since 1942. Think you love burgers? Take on the Burger Bar Challenge and you could score a free shirt—but only if you can put away a massive burger and a pile of fries in 30 minutes. 

French Magnolia

Enjoy a taste of France at this Bristol brasserie. 

Southern Churn

Satisfy your sweet tooth at this ice cream and candy shop known for its handmade fudge. 

Hickory

This fine dining restaurant at Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards features the Appalachian-inspired cuisine of James Beard Award semi-finalist Chef Travis Milton. 

Vivian’s Table

Chef Jason van Marter is known to innovate at this approachable Appalachian chophouse.

Southern Craft BBQ

A variety of smoked meats—pork, chicken, turkey, brisket, salmon (and veggies too)— are on the menu at this restaurant, located at The Sessions Hotel. 

Blackbird Bakery

Swing by the bakery for from-scratch pastries, doughnuts, brownies, pies, and more. 

Red Pepper Indian Restaurant

Enjoy refined and rich flavors at this fine dining Indian restaurant.

Mas Tequila

This downtown Mexican restaurant has an extensive menu of quesadillas, tacos, burritos, and fajitas. 

Greene’s Seafood

Sample fresh seafood at this restaurant and market. 

Want more Southwest Virginia eats? Check out our dining guide for the whole region. 

TOP ATTRACTIONS & LANDMARKS

Birthplace of Country Music Museum

Learn about the legendary 1927 recordings that brought country music to the mainstream at this Smithsonian-affiliated museum. Explore the permanent and rotating exhibits and see why the museum is a major venue on The Crooked Road, Virginia’s heritage music trail. 

Mendota Trail

Take in the great outdoors on this 12.5-mile hiking and biking trail that goes from Bristol to Mendota. You’ll get countryside, forest, and creek views on your journey. As a former rail line, the trail is largely flat and features seventeen restored trestle bridges. 

Bristol Train Station

This 1902 train station is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Although it no longer serves as a passenger train station—the last departure was in 1971—the building has been restored to display its grand history. Admire the Gothic-style architecture and cathedral ceilings in Kegley Hall or learn more about the station during a walking tour. 

Sugar Hollow Park

Explore 400 acres of fun, whether you want to tackle the bike trail, set up a picnic at a shelter, or pitch a tent at one of the dozens of campsites. The park also features a pool, playground, and softball and soccer fields.

Paramount Center for the Arts

This iconic performing arts venue is found on the Tennessee side of State Street. The historic theater was built in 1931 and restored sixty years later. Check the calendar to see if you can catch a show during your stay. 

Bristol Motor Speedway

Located in Tennessee, this oval short track has a long history with NASCAR. It opened in 1961 and has since thrilled millions of spectators with its high-octane racing right near the border of Tennessee and Virginia. 

SHOPPING & SOUVENIRS

Shopping on State Street

You’ll find an array of charming local shops along State Street. Discover Neoappalachian art at HollerHouse, shop for gifts to take home at Cranberry Lane, get your own pair of cowboy boots at Wiseman’s Western & Work, and browse chic pieces at Studio 6 Apparel.

State Street Farmers Market  

Shop for fresh produce and find treasures from local artisans at this State Street market, open Saturday mornings from May to October and Wednesday afternoons from July to September. 

The Pinnacle

The Tennessee side of Bristol is home to The Pinnacle, an outlet mall where shoppers can find retailers like American Eagle, Bass Pro Shops, and Ulta. 

Antique Shops

Stroll down State Street and find a treasure trove of antique shops, including Grand Antiques and Willow Creek Antiques & Collectibles.

NIGHTLIFE & ENTERTAINMENT

A true musical oasis, you won’t find it hard to listen to live performances while visiting Bristol. Local artists are known to play at the bars and restaurants lining State Street—just follow your ears while you’re looking for dinner or a drink. 

Play Your Hand at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol

Take a chance on the slots, experience live table games, and play a hand of poker at this entertainment center that also features performances and several bars. 

See A Show at Cameo Theatre

Theatre Bristol produces plays and musicals at the Cameo Theatre, a venue that dates back to 1925. Fun Fact: The building has had many lives as a movie theater, music hall, church, and radio station. 

Brews at Michael Waltrip Brewing Company

Two-time Daytona 500 champion Michael Waltrip founded this brewery, where they also serve up wings, burgers, and fun. 

Lumac Rooftop Bar

The city’s first rooftop bar is located atop The Bristol Hotel and features panoramic views, a variety of food and drink, and regular live performances. 

Drinks at Squabble State Hard Cider & Spirits

The historic “Squabble State” — a disputed territory between Virginia and Tennessee with a mythic story — inspires the creations at this welcoming taproom. 

Neighborhood Bar Vibes at The Corner

Cheers to a day of exploring and enjoy eats from the creative menu by Chef Drew Winnie. 

Putt Putt at The Traveling Bear Indoor Mini Golf

The whole family will enjoy 18 holes at this indoor mini golf course, which features depictions of some of Bristol’s unique attractions. 

FESTIVALS

Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion

When: Sept. 19-21, 2025

Where: Downtown Bristol 

This annual festival began in 2001 as a way of celebrating Bristol’s legacy as the birthplace of country music. Attendees enjoy three days of Americana jams, food, drink, activities for kids, and more special events. 

Bristol Bluegrass Spring Fest

When: April

Where: Delta Hotels Bristol

Bluegrass, gospel, and other artists gather for this weekend music festival honoring Bristol local James Wimmer.  

Saucers Over Appalachia

When: June 14, 2025

Where: Cumberland Square Park

A brand-new cosmic extravaganza will take place in Cumberland Square Park when dozens of artists, authors, and the paranormal-curious gather for Saucers Over Appalachia. Plus, don’t miss live music and food trucks. 

JUST DOWN THE ROAD…

Keep the adventure going with a drive to one of these destinations, perfect for a day trip or an extra leg of your journey. 

…Towns to Explore

Abingdon | Less than thirty minutes northeast of Bristol is Abingdon, another Southwest Virginia town with charm to spare. Enjoy outdoor adventure, award-winning eats, and historic theater when you visit. 

Damascus | Around thirty minutes east of Bristol, Damascus is known as Trail Town USA because seven iconic trails pass through its downtown, including the Appalachian Trail, The Crooked Road, and the Virginia Creeper Trail. 

Big Stone Gap | Around an hour and a half drive northwest will get you to Big Stone Gap, a Little Town with a Big Story. You may recognize it from the book by Adriana Trigiani and movie of the same name, but that’s just the start of what this Appalachian town has to offer. 

…More Outdoor Fun

Virginia Creeper Trail | This nearly 35-mile trail winds mostly downhill from Whitetop Station, through Damascus to Abingdon. Rent bikes from a local outfitter and take in a portion or tackle all of the scenic trail. 

NOTE: A significant portion of the Virginia Creeper Trail sustained damage due to Hurricane Helene. The portion of the trail from Abingdon to Damascus has reopened; rebuilding efforts for the rest of the trail are ongoing. 

The Channels Natural Area Preserve | This popular outdoor destination around an hour north of Bristol is known for its maze-like system of sandstone crevices and boulders. Pro tip: Parking is limited here, so opt for a less-busy weekday visit rather than going on the weekend. 

Southwest Virginia Museum State Park | Explore the history of the region at this Big Stone Gap park, which is centered around an 1890s Victorian stone mansion.

South Holston Lake | Get out on the water at this large lake, which spans from Virginia into Tennessee. It’s common to see fly fishers out and about, and the lake and river provide ample opportunities for on-the-water recreation and relaxation. 

Natural Tunnel State Park | Marvel at this natural wonder in Scott County. More than 850 feet long and as high as a 10-story building, Natural Tunnel was naturally carved through a limestone ridge over thousands of years.

Devil’s Bathtub | Expect a 7.2-mile round trip hike to see this popular attraction, a naturally smooth swimming hole found along the Devil’s Fork Loop Trail. 

Appalachian Trail | The A.T.’s path through Virginia is filled with rewarding hikes and once-in-a-lifetime views. From Bristol, head east to Damascus to park at Damascus Town Park and hop on the trail. 

Grayson Highlands State Park | This park is known as a gateway to the highest peak in Virginia, Mount Rogers. There are 13 hiking trails in the park, as well as horse trails and abundant mountain biking opportunities. 

Spearhead Trails | Go off-road and don’t be afraid to get dirty while exploring over 400 miles of ATV trails in Southwest Virginia. 

…Noteworthy Attractions

Barter Theatre | Located in Abingdon, the Barter Theatre is the State Theatre of Virginia and puts on multiple productions throughout the year. 

Abingdon Vineyards | Whether you arrive by car, from the nearby Creeper Trail, or via South Holston Lake, this welcoming winery will provide the relaxation or adventure you seek. 

The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail | Trace Virginia’s musical history when you stop at key spots on The Crooked Road, a 330-mile driving trail through the mountains of Southwest Virginia. Major venues include Rex Theater in Galax, the Floyd Country Store, and the Blue Ridge Music Center in Grayson County. 

Carter Family Fold | Part of The Crooked Road, this music center and venue carries on the bluegrass and old-time sound with live performances and exhibits. 

Harry Meador Jr. Coal Museum | Learn about the cultural, economic, and social history of the coal mining industry in Big Stone Gap.  

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with your family, a Virginia vacation’s got all that you love, all in one place. Use this guide to Bristol to help you start planning your Virginia vacation today!