By default, you may think of Johnson City as a line in a song, a gateway city to the Smoky Mountains, or even the birthplace of Mountain Dew. And while you wouldn’t be wrong about any of those things, my first trip to town unveiled so much more: an adorable downtown, incredible food, and a slew of outdoor activities just minutes from the city center.
Pro tip: Mountain Dew’s grandfather beverage, Dr. Enuf, is a local delicacy.
While there’s plenty to see and do in town itself should a leisurely weekend getaway be in order, Johnson City serves as a perfect jumping-off point for outdoor adventure to tickle any fancy. We’ve gathered everything you need to know for your first visit.
Eat
You’d better come hungry for your visit to Johnson City, because from breakfast all the way through dessert and nightcaps, you’ll be well fed.
Southern Craft BBQ
Small batch brews and smoked meats go together perfectly at this barbecue joint near downtown Johnson City. At Southern Craft, enjoy a flight of craft beers ranging from classic pilsners and stouts to seasonal specials, or opt for a craft cocktail or glass of wine. Whichever you choose, a brisket sandwich piled high, a side of slaw, and some pepper jack cheese grits only sweeten the deal. Plus, they sent me home with a slice of peanut butter pie that made me a firm believer in this spot as a must-visit.
Timber!
If you’re looking for a bit of fine dining, Timber! has an impressive menu of Southern small plates and a talented team behind the bar to round out the experience. Mix and match your bites like I did with a trio of melon and prosciutto, catfish, and whipped ricotta. Add a cocktail, too, the bartenders whipped up classics like a Paper Plane (my favorite) and a Last Word.
Pal’s Sudden Service
In stark contrast, this fast food institution is a pivot from tablecloths and craft cocktails. In fact, there isn’t even a dining room at this drive-thru-only spot. But, rest assured, Pal’s should still be on your list for the cheddar rounds alone (cheddar-filled hashbrowns served only at breakfast). For lunch or dinner, grab a burger, Frenchie fries, and a fountain Dr. Enuf for a quintessentially Johnson City experience – just look for the giant hot dog on the side of the road.
Gourmet & Company
A small town should always have a go-to spot for ladies who lunch, and we found just that at Gourmet & Company. Settle into a dressed-up dining room for a Southwest salad and a flavored sweet tea, or really cure your hunger with steak sliders, quiche of the day, or a grilled pimento cheese.
Juniper
Topping the list of must-visit spots for my return visit is Juniper, a chef-driven concept with starters like French onion soup and chicken pot pie croquettes, and mains including lamb chops and filet mignon. The cocktail and mocktail menu is subject to change, but features seasonal ingredients and elevated techniques.
Cafe Lola Bistro
Turns out, ladies lunching have plenty of options in Johnson City. Cafe Lola was bustling at lunchtime with gossip and good conversation (and the cutest surprise birthday party for an older gentleman that brought a tear to my eye). A soup and sandwich combo is a no-brainer here during lunch, but it’s an excellent dinner option, too, transforming into a swanky wine bar with international dishes.
Stay
Whether visiting a student at East Tennessee State University, exploring the Tri Cities, or setting up to explore the surrounding great outdoors, travelers who are seeking a place to stay in Johnson City have a clear option with a cheeky secret.
The Carnegie Hotel
With a premier location in the heart of town (and across from the ETSU campus), the Carnegie Hotel places visitors right into the late 1800s – but don’t let the period-appropriate decor fool you, this property was erected in 2001. It’s a replica of the one that met an untimely demise just 19 years after it was built – a fire destroyed it entirely in 1910. Today, travelers are treated to grandiose period decor coupled with modern amenities like a fitness center, an onsite spa, and a signature restaurant, Wellington’s.
DoubleTree by Hilton
Aside from the Carnegie, there are a number of nationally backed hotel options around town. The DoubleTree is located in a retail area, but is close to the airport and even closer to downtown. Find all the amenities you’d expect at a Hilton, from an indoor and outdoor pool, fitness center, and an onsite burger joint. Plus, who doesn’t love being greeted with warm chocolate chip cookies?!
Play
Johnson City is synonymous with the great outdoors – a glance around will reveal towering mountains 360 degrees. From wandering downtown to hitting trails just beyond, there’s lots to do during your visit.
Historic District
We’re willing to bet you’ll be charmed by downtown Johnson City, with its National Main Street Program and Tennessee Main Street Community accreditations, and its spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Weave through historic buildings, stopping to shop at spots like The Generalist, Boomtown & Co., and Sentimental Journey Antiques & Merchant Mall, and grab a sweet treat from Lazy Lady Baking Co. or coffee from Dos Gatos. Needless to say, bring your wallet, your camera, and your appetite.
Hiking + Biking
And while you’re at it, bring your hiking boots. There are a number of trails just beyond Johnson City’s downtown, though many visitors use the city as a hub for outdoor adventure deeper into the mountains. Nearby, a hike up Buffalo Mountain Park will unveil a stunning view of the surrounding mountains, while Jacob’s Nature Park pairs your hike with beautiful wildlife and so. many. butterflies.
If wheels are more your speed, the Tweetsie Trail winds along an old railway, whisking visitors through covered paths that open to reveal mountain views. After a scenic ride, load up the bikes and head to Tannery Knobs to up the ante on adventure. Here, ride leisurely down maintained trails or go for it and hit the pump-track.
Museums + Attractions
When you’re ready to tamp down the adventure, pick your museum of interest and prepare to learn more about East Tennessee. The Johnson City Railroad Experience offers a deep dive into the history of the lines that pass right through town and how they help shape a now-bustling city. The Hands On! Discovery Center is an all-ages science destination with exhibits dedicated to pollination, topography, and even a bi-polar Tesla coil that holds a Guinness World Record. The Gray Fossil Site is here, too, an active paleontology dig site.
And, don’t skip a visit to the Visit Johnson City Visitor Center, a museum in and of itself, complete with an interactive selfie station, history center, and immersive seasonal experience.
This article is presented in partnership with Visit Johnson City, a Modern South Founding Partner.
