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5 Fascinating Museums to Explore Near Kingsport

Museums Near Kingsport, TN - Toyota of Kingsport
Finding an interesting learning experience near Kingsport, Tennessee, is easy thanks to the many museums and historical sites in the area. Whether you're a life-long learner or you want to show a slice of history to your family, these fascinating museums in the area should do the trick.

Birthplace of Country Music Museum

If you're a fan of country music, you can discover your roots at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum over in nearby Bristol. This 24,000-square-foot museum is full of interactive exhibits that walk you through the world of 20th-century country music. The museum is housed in the building where the influential 1927 Bristol Sessions took place, which played an important role in developing the music genre.

Gray Fossil Site & Natural History Museum 

The Gray Fossil Site is an active dig site that allows visitors to get an inside view of not only the world 5 million years ago but also of the archeological process itself. The scientists that work on this site believe that the Gray Fossil Site was created when an underground limestone cave collapsed and created a sinkhole that collected and preserved nearby creatures and plant life. The hands-on learning opportunities this natural history museum is home to make it a unique learning experience.

The Netherland Inn and Complex

Kingsport's own Netherland Inn was built in the first decade of the 1800s. Now it features museum-quality furnishings and decor to allow visitors to see what the inn looked like in its heyday. In addition to the Netherland Inn, you may also be able to explore an old schoolhouse, a Daniel Boone cabin, an early boatyard that gives a clue into the Netherland's original purpose, and more.

Rocky Mount State Historical Site

Visiting Rocky Mount State Historical Site is like taking a step back into the past. Discover the Cobb House, which served as the capital for what was the Southwest Territory in the late 1700s. The costumed living history actors make it easy to inspire young visitors to learn about the early history of the nation. During your tour of the 40 acres Rocky Mount sits on, you may be able to see artifacts from the 18th and 19th century, a blacksmith's shop, a beautifully maintained garden, and even a flock of Cotswold sheep.

Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park

Nature- and history-lovers alike will love what the Sycamore Shoals State Historic has to offer. Explore the interpretive museum to see displays that take you through the 18th century of Sycamore Shoals. Discover the beginnings of the American Revolution, the birth of Fort Watauga to protect the settlers who took this land for their own, and more. You can easily spend an entire day here if you're up for a hike through the trails that wind through the beautiful natural area around the museum. Choose the museum that most intrigues you or get a crash course into a topic you've never thought about before. Whichever you choose, these Kingsport-area museums are sure to fill your day with fascinating views into the past. Image via Pixabay
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5 of the Best Scenic Drives in Tennessee

You'll never be short of scenic drives when traveling through Tennessee. Whether you live in Kingsport, TN or elsewhere in the state, you can find plenty of unique visual experiences behind the wheel. 1. Roan Mountain (Nearest Kingsport, TN) It's an hour's journey from Kingsport to Roan Mountain, but the real beauty is found once you arrive in this small village. The views of the mountain itself will delight you, and you can enjoy the day by perusing the delights of Roan Mountain State Park. more 2. U.S. Highway 129 (The Tail Of The Dragon) This route is nicknamed The Trail Of The Dragon because it features hundreds of curves along its 11-mile distance. For this reason, it's a popular road for motorcycle races. Yet, if you take the road at an orderly pace, you'll notice it's a picturesque journey. The best views come courtesy of the Great Smoky National Park, which the highway borders. Despite being a mid-size SUV, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 offers the pristine handling to take on this road without fear. You and up to four passengers will be able to appreciate the ride in great comfort thanks to the modern, spacious interior of this vehicle. 3. Cades Cave Loop Road This is another enjoyable journey within the vicinity of Great Smoky National Park. You'll enjoy plenty of memorable views of the surrounding mountains along this 12-mile route. If you're lucky, you'll spot plenty of the wildlife who call this area their home. This route is reserved for cyclists and hikers on Wednesdays during the summer months, but it's OK for motorists every other day of the year. 4. Cherohala Skyway This 42-mile route connects Tellico Plains in south-east Tennessee with the town of Robinsville in North Carolina. It's named after Cherokee and Nantahala forests since it passes through both of them. It was labeled as a National Scenic Byway back in 1996. You'll experience great views of both forests on this state-maintained highway. The gradients become as steep as 9% at some points. There are plenty of suitable spots for those who enjoy hiking or picnicking in nature with family and friends. 5. Ocoee Scenic Byway Ocoee Scenic Byway was the first route to be labelled a National Forest Scenic Byway. It comprises U.S. Highway 64 and Forest Road 77. Along this route, you can enjoy the sights of the Ocoee River Gorge, Chilhowee Mountain, Cumberland Mountains, Tennessee Valley, and the mountains of Georgia. If you're considering buying a new or used Toyota vehicle, pay us a visit at Toyota of Kingsport. Our team of experts will be delighted to assist you in ensuring you choose the vehicle that best suits your needs.

free things near Kingsport TN

Take the Car and Check Out These 3 Free Things to Do Near Kingsport, TN

There's something to do for everyone here in Kingsport, TN. The city has a plethora of activities, and when you're on a budget, you can even find several free things to do. Look at the following list, which is just a sampling of what our fine region has to offer. 1. Warriors Path State Park This 950-acre park is an outdoor enthusiast's playground. Both adults and kids alike will find plenty to do, including hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and witnessing a nature education program. Bring your camping gear and stay overnight too! You can even go to their website and find a list of trail maps if you intend to do lots of hiking. One of the things that makes this park especially unique is that it offers activities for children with disabilities. There's the Lions Narnia Braille Trail, which is a quarter of a mile in length where kids will learn about the Chronicles of Narnia, the famous book by C.S. Lewis. The Anderson Treehouse is also popular among children. The Warriors Path Park office is located at 490 Hemlock Rd., but if you simply follow directions for the park, you'll have no trouble finding it. The park is open every day. more 2. Borden Park Borden Park has been around since 1906 and offers a multitude of activities on its 17 acres. Enjoy a game of basketball on the court, bring your rackets and balls for a game of tennis, and don't forget the picnic baskets. The park offers barbecue grills, six picnic shelters, benches, bathrooms, and even a pickleball court. Please note that you'll need your own net and supplies to play pickleball. You can also get some exercise on the paved walking trail. The kids can enjoy the two playgrounds while the adults relax on the benches. Don't forget to bring Rover as the park is dog-friendly. The park is open from dawn to dusk every day, and it is located at 901 Lamont St. 3. The Kingsport Greenbelt The Greenbelt connects the neighborhoods and downtown Kingsport through a trail that brings nearly 1,000 visitors every day. You can walk or bike along the pathway and take in the scenic streams, meadows, flowers, and even historic sites of the area. You'll also enjoy seeing wildlife along the way. Bring your furry friends as dogs are welcome. The Greenbelt is located at 1550 Fort Henry Dr. and is open Monday through Friday. Take your next local trip in a brand new 2023 Toyota Crown Platinum. Visit Toyota of Kingsport today and see everything we have in stock. We have both new and used vehicles as well as great specials. We are located at 2525 E. Stone Dr.

Farmers market

3 Farmers Markets in Driving Distance of Kingsport, TN

If you want the very best locally grown and made products in and around Kingsport, TN, farmers markets are great go-to places. Don't miss these fantastic markets in the area. 1. Kingsport Farmers Market During the heart of growing season, the corner of Clinchfield and Center Streets comes alive for the Kingsport Farmers Market. From May to October, you can visit from seven in the morning until one in the afternoon every Wednesday and Saturday. And go early or late in the season by taking advantage of the Saturday openings in April and November. The freshest produce from area farms is always up for sale, as are incredible baked goods and unique crafts from hometown artisans. Fun community programs are plentiful too, such as the Farmacy Fit walking challenge, Saturdays with the Chef cooking demonstrations, and even martial arts classes. The pavilion is available for rentals and brings such activities as Market Jams live music. more 2. Appalachian Farmers Market Travel to Gray's intersection of Lakeview and Fair Streets and you'll come across a Washington County staple in the spring, summer, and fall. Local growers, bakers, and artisans are on-site and ready to answer your questions about their labor of love offerings. Operating hours are Mondays between 4 PM and 7 PM and Saturdays between 7 AM and 12 PM. Indulge in local season veggies from arugula to turnips in the spring, cucumbers to zucchini in the summer, and carrots to pumpkins in the fall. And your fruit bowls will be overflowing with scrumptious strawberries, cantaloupes, watermelons, apples, and so much more. Get your meat fix with beef and egg items, and top off your meal with fresh herbs, spices, and molasses. Visitors with a green thumb will love the plants and flowers. 3. State Street Farmers Market Fellow Tri-City Bristol hosts this market at, appropriately enough, 810 State Street. Dubbed "Bristol by the Bushel," this fixture of historic downtown opens from May until October. Get your fill of locally grown cabbage, gourds, Irish potatoes, sweet corn, and berries of all kinds, among other goodies. You'll find an abundance of tempting foods both at the market and at nearby downtown dining destinations. For downtown and city driving with ease, nothing beats the Toyota Camry. This popular four-door family sedan and coupe is small enough to slot into any tight parking space and big enough cargo capacity-wise to stock up on all your market goods. Better yet, it delivers nimble handling and solid Toyota Safety Sense features such as pedestrian detection and a rearview camera. Rest assured with a ride that boasts comfort and reliability in any season. Visit Toyota of Kingsport for an inventory that delivers for drivers in every way.