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Best Ways to Spend the Day at the Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium

Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium in Kingsport, TN
Embark on an exciting adventure at the Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium. Perched on Bay Mountain in Kingsport, Tennessee, this 3550-acre recreational area features a picturesque lake, an adventure course, a state-of-the-art Planetarium Theater, and a wildlife zoo. Discover the magic of Bay Mountain with these three best ways to spend the day.

Fly High on the Adventure Course

Bays Mountain Park is home to three thrilling adventure courses, designed to excite kids of all ages. Explore a variety of stimulating features and guaranteed fun with the high and low rope courses as well as the zip line courses. Each sequence offers its own set of challenges from The Flying Fox, a controlled fall from a 44-inch high platform, to the two-tiered, high course's 40-foot Hawk's Nest. Ride The Flying Squirrel, Bay Mountain's zip line. It's an exciting 310-foot race through trees to the landing ramp. But first, you have to scale the 28-foot rope net to get to the takeoff. How's that for an exhilarating afternoon?

Experience the Planetarium

Stargazers are going to love Bay Mountain's planetarium. Completely renovated in 2009, this gateway to the stars boasts upgraded surround sound and a Zeiss star projector, thanks to a $1.3 million endowment by the nonprofit Bays Mountain Park Association. Today the star field is so realistic that visitors use binoculars to see two dozen deep-sky objects on the 40-foot dome that you can't see with the naked eye. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking imagery as the night sky is accurately reproduced just for your viewing pleasure. Catch a variety of rotating and exciting shows such as the main feature, “Sunstruck.” Travel back in time and watch the birth of the sun or catch a showing of the whimsical “Planetary Visions,” both playing now through Dec. 31.

Discover the Animal Habitats

Get to know some of the area's native animals at Bays Mountain. The park invites you to explore the various ecosystems throughout the grounds, featuring a wonderful collection of residents from the favorite wolves to the playful river otters. In 1992, a family of gray wolves joined the lineup of featured guests at Bay Mountain. They were born in captivity, yet they are not considered tame. See if you can spot an elusive bobcat; the Bobcats are well-camouflaged creatures and blend in with their surroundings. Visit the park's Raptor Center, home to birds of prey such as hawks, owls, and falcons. The herpetarium houses the center's reptiles and amphibians. It also touts America's only marsupial: opossums. Visit the watershed exhibit in the lower level of the Nature Center building. Inside you can follow a single raindrop as it falls from the sky and eventually ends up in the Holston River. Finish up your tour with a glimpse of native fish as they go about their busy lives in the showcase's aquarium. Offering school programs, miles of hiking trails, and plenty of special events, there's a little something for every adventure-seeker at Bay Mountain Park and Planetarium. Plan your visit today, and make sure to invite the whole family. Image by Hans from Pixabay
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photos spots near Kingsport TN

Drive on Over: 4 Great Spots for Taking Photos Near Kingsport, TN

Northeast Tennessee is a perfect place for memorable selfies and pics for the album. Don't miss these fantastic photo spots near and dear to Kingsport, TN. 1. Selfie Trail #CaptureKingsport is the hot tag for the city's famed Selfie Trail. Selfie Location Markers mark the spots where you can enjoy the sights of Kingsport while striking your best pose. The Kingsport Sign at 400 Clinchfield St. begins the journey with its clever inclusion of the Tennessee flag. Feel like royalty by snapping a pic in front of 4444 West Stone Dr.'s Allandale Mansion, or harken back to a bygone era at 4812 Orebank Rd.'s Exchange Place. Travel to 245 E. Main St. and take a picture with St. Nick anytime at the Spirit of Generosity Sculpture. The sports landmark Miracle Field (at 2017 Brickyard Park Dr.) gifts the opportunity to capture a wow-worthy baseball play against a majestic mountainous backdrop. And 350 Clinchfield St.'s Kingsport Carousel will help you recapture childhood with a family photo amidst the whimsical hand-painted horses. more 2. Bays Mountain This sprawling park has also earned honored top spots along the Selfie Trail. Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium itself offers photo ops at every turn. Pose in front of the sparkling 44-acre lake. Become wildlife photographer-extraordinaire at animal habitats featuring natural royalty such as raptors, bobcats, and iconic howling wolves. Preserve Mother Nature in all her glory along the plentiful hiking trails. Or get your night vision camera ready for a tour of the stars. For a truly postcard-pic, head on over to 853 Bays Mountain Park Rd. and discover the ultimate scenic view of Kingsport's beauty (with you as the star) in the Bays Mountain Fire-tower. Or indulge in a round of golf at the mountain's base on 1901 Meadowview Parkway. Go for the sport at Cattails, but stay for the incredible scenery and the parcel of pics that'll result. 3. Netherland Inn Road First on the photo itinerary at this Selfie Trail fixture is the captain of the namesake road: Netherland Inn. Stationed at the 2144 address, one of the region's oldest historic sites takes visitors back in time to the early 19th century with authentic period-era furnishings, toys, architecture, and more. Who needs a pricy old-time photo shoot when you can experience the real deal? And that striking Holston River view adds to the ambiance. Continue your natural odyssey with plentiful snapshot moments along 1795 Netherland Inn Rd.'s Greenbelt. Streams, marshlands, wildflower meadows, and rivers are just waiting for their time in the spotlight on this ten-mile linear trail made for walking and biking. The suspension bridge is one of many great places fit for a pic. Plus, get a flavor of Kingsport culture with photo-laden strolls through residential neighborhoods and historic downtown. 4. Downtown Mural Trail Speaking of downtown, you'll find local artworks brimming with vibrant color and vivid creative themes hugging every street. Nearly two dozen murals embody this amazing city's spirit. Easily fill a photo album with miniature masterpieces. For an automotive masterpiece, turn heads in the Toyota GT86. This ultra-sleek and affordable sportscar could steal centerpiece status in any photo spread. Autos have never looked better than they do in Kingsport. Visit Toyota of Kingsport and behold runway-ready rides.

Just Down the Road: 5 Favorite Bookstores Near Kingsport, TN

Kingsport, TN located in the “Mountain Empire” that spans a portion of southwest Virginia and the mountainous counties in northeastern Tennessee, has a long history and a number of bookstores that you can lose yourself in. Read on to find out some of our top picks. Bubba's Book Swap Bubba's Book Swap at 331 E Sullivan St, Kingsport is a fantastic used book store brimming with an extensive selection of books. They cater impressively to the interests of sci-fi, fantasy, horror, and suspense/thriller readers. Browse through their impressive range of both recent and classic titles. The owner's approachability and willingness to assist is sure to leave a lasting impression. The shop offers a cozy, well-stocked ambiance right in Kingsport's heart. We wholeheartedly recommend it to any book enthusiasts in the Tri-Cities, TN/VA area, and look forward to meeting Bubba, the cat, in person during our next visit. more Dewayne's World - Comics & Games This haven for comic book enthusiasts, located at 457 E Sullivan St #423, offers a fantastic array of Gundhams, Funko Pops, D&D merchandise, Collectible Figures, comic books, Little Golden Books, and stuffed animals. Dewayne's World quickly has quickly become a popular local store thanks to its extensive offerings: comics, graphic novels, board games, miniatures, and a plethora of collectibles. The courteous and helpful staff are an additional asset, and they are always willing to talk about their own favorites and give recommendations. Books-A-Million This large store, located at 2626 E Stone Dr, in the Kingsport Pavilion shopping center, is a favorite of many thanks to its well-planned layout. Not only a shop for books, they also cater to fans of comics, manga, and other visual narratives, offering a substantial section dedicated to classics and currently serialized stories. We found their staff to be approachable and would recommend this store to anyone. Mr. K's Used Books, Music, and More Located a bit further in Johnson City, Mr. K's at 4 Mark Twain Ct is a treasure waiting to be discovered. The two-story building houses an impressive selection of used and new books, as well as comics. With a functional elevator and stairs for access, their collection caters to everyone. Though the store size can initially seem daunting, navigating it becomes easier once you familiarize yourself with the layout, and the helpful staff will help you find what you need. The prices are very reasonable and they also run a website offering both new and used books. Maple Tree Book Shop + Coffee House Situated just across the state line in Gate City, Virginia, this used bookstore down at 101 E Jackson St aims to cultivate a passion for reading. They have a particular interest in helping local families, especially those keen to support local businesses but unsure where to start. They are enthusiastic about childhood literacy and recently donated 100 books to local children during a community Back-to-School event. In addition to books, they run a full coffee shop offering a range of espresso drinks, regular coffee, and blended beverages, accompanied by a selection of homemade cookies and pastries. It's a great place to have a browse and a coffee while you find your next read. Whatever your preferred genre, you'll find something to your taste in one of these stores. And whatever kind of vehicle you need, you'll find it when you visit Toyota of Kingsport. From a used Toyota Corolla to a new Toyota Tacoma, you can find the perfect fit with us.

Places near Kingsport TN

Drive on Over: 4 Fun Places to Visit Near Kingsport, TN

Kingsport, TN may boast a regal name, but that doesn't mean the city lacks a lively spirit. Check out these fun places in the region where you can let loose. 1. Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium If you're a nature lover who lives for outdoor adventure, you'll get your fill at this 3,500-acre park located at--appropriately enough--853 Bays Mountain Park Road. Hike nearly 40 miles of scenic trails, or you can safely witness nature's marvels (from bobcats to raptors) at the nature center. You can even listen to the awe-inspiring howling of the wolf-pack. If your interests lean more aquatic, see some action at the 44-acre lake. Or if you want an adrenaline-inducing challenge, test your mettle on the ropes course and zip-lines spanning hundreds of feet. For history buffs, take an immersive trip to a bygone era at an on-site living history farm. Or set your sights on the stars by observing the astronomical wonders at the planetarium. more 2. Putt-Putt Fun Center It's all in the name at this 346 W. Stone Drive destination that's sure to bring out your inner kid with family classics: miniature golf, arcades, go-karts, bumper cars, laser tag, and much more. Find out why this indoor delight is such a popular birthday destination. If you want a more grown-up golfing experience, head over to 1901 Meadowview Parkway and play a few rounds at the world-class Cattails golf course brimming with beautiful Bermuda fairways and Bentgrass greens. Just don't be too wowed by the six sparkling lakes lest they become your next water hazard. 3. More Awesome Athletics Northeast Tennessee is home to minor league baseball's Appalachian League. The boys of summer take to the field at 800 Granby Road's Hunter Wright Stadium. Here, cheering fans are wowed by homers, steals, strikeouts, and amazing plays courtesy of the Kingsport Axmen. You never know what goodies you'll score during the plentiful fan appreciation nights. For fast car fiends, there's NASCAR's nearby Bristol Motor Speedway. But for high-octane action right in the heart of Kingsport take your seat at the city's own speedway on 2961 N. John B. Dennis Highway. Or take a few aquatic laps of your own at the Olympic-size swimming pool at 1820 Meadowview Parkway's Kingsport Aquatic Center...also home to an aqua obstacle course, water slides, and lazy river. 4. Live Entertainment Spectaculars The Renaissance Arts Center and Theatre, located at 1200 E. Center Street, is Kingsport's answer for fun-seekers yearning for a more laid-back experience. The center hosts art shows and concerts year-round, while the 350-seat theater is perfect for play lovers. You can even enjoy a leisurely picnic or game of horseshoes outside. Every summer, Kingsport literally embodies the word fun with its annual FunFest: a multi-venue, 100-plus event fair and festival in one that kicks off in July for nine memory-filled days. Prep for FunFest with Toyota's revamped, game-changing audio multimedia infotainment system. With the massive 14-inch touchscreen available on models from the Highlander to the Sienna, you can easily locate and store your favorite tunes. Find a fun auto to be your ride-or-die. Drop by Toyota of Kingsport and test-drive your selection from our energetic and eclectic inventory.