Blog

Kingsport offers many different places to get a good meal. If you are looking for a stick to your ribs, sloppy hamburger you are in luck, there are several options in the area. They all make a good choice for either lunch or dinner. more Sloppy's Diner For a unique and fun dining experience, head to Sloppy's Diner on North Eastman Road. Sloopy's is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday. On Mondays, kids eat for free when you dine-in. When you get everyone settled in, indulge in their mouthwatering menu.  Some of the burger choices include an 8 oz Sloppy's burger. If you like something with a bit of heat, try the jalapeno and cheddar burger. For a different take on your traditional burger, try the Carolina burger topped with cheese, coleslaw, and chili. All of their burgers are served with tomato, lettuce, mayo, and onions. Round out the meal with an order of fries, tater tots, or onion rings. You will definitely want to save room for dessert. Pick from hand-dipped ice cream, a piece of hot fudge cake, or a banana split. If you are daring enough, try the two-pound challenge. It's a two-pound burger with fries, and you have nine minutes to complete it. Pal's Sudden Service Check out one of the six different locations for Pal's Sudden Service restaurants for a juicy hamburger and delicious fries. They are open seven days a week and located throughout the city, making them perfect for a quick lunch during a busy workday. Some of their delicious burger options include the Sauceburger, which is a single patty covered in Pal's sauce. You can order it with or without cheese and bacon. The Chili Burger is an all-beef patty covered with chili, cheese, and onions. Try the Big Pal for a third-pound traditional burger. Don't forget an order fries and a cold drink to round out your meal. Extra napkins are a good idea, too, if you are eating in your car. Purple Cow One of the more eye-catching burger joints in Kingsport is the Purple Cow. It's on East Stone Drive and open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. This drive-thru diner gives you the chance to indulge in a variety of different foods.  All of the burgers are formed in-house daily. There are 18 different burger choices on the menu. They include traditional offerings in four different sizes. If you are looking for a more unique spin, try the Pizza Burger with provolone cheese, marinara sauce, and mushrooms. You can also try the BBQ pork cheddar burger with slow-roasted pulled pork, cheddar cheese, and BBQ sauce. The largest burger is a hand-formed one-pound burger named the Intimidator that comes on a nine and half-inch bun. The dessert choices include milkshakes, brownies, and banana splits. Bring your friends or family with you as you enjoy each location.  Nothing rounds out a good meal like some good company. Image via Pixabay

The 2019 Toyota Highlander is a spacious SUV that has eight trim levels available, including three hybrid models and five gas engine models. If you're thinking about getting one of the gas engine models but you're not sure which one is right for you, learn more about the features that come in each model so you can get the right one. more Highlander LE The Highlander LE is the starting trim level in the lineup. On the outside, the SUV comes standard with heated and power-adjustable side mirrors with turn signal indicators, a rear spoiler, daytime running lights, automatic halogen headlights, and LED taillights. The infotainment system comes standard with a 6.1-inch touch-screen display, Siri Eyes Free, and Bluetooth connectivity. When you hit the road, you'll enjoy the power offered by the standard 2.7-liter engine that delivers 185 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The SUV also comes standard with a rearview camera and Toyota Safety Sense, which includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, automatic high beams, lane departure alert with steering assist, and dynamic radar cruise control. Highlander LE Plus The Highlander LE Plus takes all the great features of the LE and builds on them. On the outside, you'll enjoy the addition of fog lamps. Inside, you'll find conveniences that include three-zone automatic climate control, SofTex-trimmed seats, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, and an infotainment system with an 8-inch touch-screen display. The engine also gets upgraded to a 3.5-liter V-6 that pumps out 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. Highlander XLE The next trim level in the lineup is the Highlander XLE. If you're searching for a new Toyota that delivers some impressive features inside and out, this is the trim level for you. On the outside, you'll find side mirrors that have blind spot warning indicators, a power tilt and slide moonroof, and chrome finishes. The XLE is also the first trim level that gives you the option of adding the backseat entertainment system. When you climb inside, you'll find leather-trimmed front- and second-row seats, a SofTex-trimmed third-row seat, heated front seats, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a built-in navigation system. Highlander SE If you decide to go with the Toyota Highlander SE, you'll find several extra features that deliver style and convenience. The outside of the SUV includes bright and efficient LED daytime running lights and fog lamps. Inside the Highlander SE, you'll enjoy the illumination of LED ambient lighting. Highlander Limited The Limited is the final trim level of the Highlander gas engine models. On the outside, this is the only trim level to offer side mirrors with puddle lights and a memory feature. Interior features that are exclusive to the Highlander Limited include a rearview camera with dynamic gridlines, perforated leather-trimmed heated and ventilated front seats, and a premium audio system with 12 JBL GreenEdge speakers. Now that you know what you can find in each trim level of the 2019 Toyota Highlander, you can easily decide which vehicle will suit all of your needs. Image via DealerOn

Next time you are out looking for some exercise and fresh air, stop by one of these great Kingsport parks. Whether you are going solo, with a friend, or taking the kids out for a day of fun there are plenty of options. Check out what we think are the best parks near Kingsport below. more Warriors Path State Park Warriors Path State Park is 950-acres and located along the Houston River and the Patrick Henry Reservoir. You can find places to boat, fish, and hike. They also have a mountain bike trail as well as a golf course. There is definitely no shortage of things to do at this great park. If you want to make a weekend of it check out one of their camping sites. They hold different events year-round for the community to immerse themselves in history and nature. You can find this park at 490 Hemlock Road in Kingsport. Bays Mountain Nature Preserve This park has a wide variety of activities for you and the family. They have a 44-acre lake, a nature center, planetarium, hiking trails, and animal habitats. You can view animals such as wolves, reptiles, and bobcats in well cared for environments. They are over 39-miles of hiking trails to check out too. Be sure to check out their adventure course which is a collection of high ropes, low ropes, and zip lines. This park is located at 853 Bays Mountain Park Road. Centennial Park This unique park includes lots of fun things to do for the whole family. There is an interactive water fountain, a nice green space, and a Santa statue that they call “Spirit of Generosity.” It is located adjacent to the old train depot at 245 East Main Street. Domtar Park This park is set up next to a beautiful riverside. It has baseball fields, a loop to walk for exercise, and a great playground for the kids. When there are games in session it can get a bit crowded, but there are plenty of times the park offers a quieter setting. They also have a sand volleyball court. Domtar Park can be Lund at 1414 Riverport Road. J Fred Johnson Park This Veteran's Memorial Park is a great place to spend some outdoor time. The park includes access to several playground structures for smaller kids, aged 3 to 6 years. There are also barbecue grills, benches, and the memorial. It isn't an overly large facility so you can watch the kids easily while they play. J Fred Johnson Park is located at 1630 Fort Henry Drive. Indian Highland Park Indian Highland is owned and operated by the Kingsport School System and is very well maintained. They have a softball field for games. They also have a playground for the kids, a soccer field, a walking path, and even batting cages. Hours are from dawn until dark except when they have an event. This park is located at 1814 East Center Street. We hope that your next day out at one of these great area parks is fun and provides memories to last. Image via Pixabay

The lineup of vehicles for the 2020 Toyota model year is certainly impressive. They have brought back their favorite vehicles with upgrades. We have scoured the web for everything they have, so keep reading to find out exactly what the 2020 Toyota lineup offers. more Fuel-Efficient Corolla With a striking design and fuel-efficient engine, the Corolla remains one of Toyota's top choices for new cars. The 2020 model will offer a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine with 121 horsepower. There is also an available 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces an impressive 169 horsepower, as well as a Hybrid option. The interior will have features such as automatic climate control with a dust and pollen filter. It will also come with an integrated backup camera, premium fabric-trimmed seats, and a 7-inch touch-screen display. Family Friendly Avalon The Avalon for 2020 is available in eight different trim levels. Each comes with something new and exciting for you and your family. It will come with features such as the 3.5-liter V-6 engine that puts out over 300 horsepower. With this car, you will also get features such as available unique leather seating and a distinct looking center console and entertainment/instrument cluster. All New GR Supra The all-new GR Supra is available for the 2020 year. It comes in three models, 3.0, 3.0 Premium, and the Launch Edition. This car was built to impress and turn heads. The 3.0-liter turbocharged, twin-scroll engine comes with rear-wheel drive. Comfortable sports seats provide a one of a kind interior design. Apple CarPlay and the touch-screen radio display allow you to sync your phone for easy access. The Supra Safety Suite technology comes standard with advanced safety features such as Lane Departure Warning with Steering Assist, Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, and Speed Limit Information. Powerful Tundra With a powerful engine and elegant interior, the Tundra is back and is continuing to impress buyers. It is set up to haul anything with the i-FORCE 5.7-liter V-8 engine and TripleTech frame. The interior contains features such as an 8-inch touch-screen display and a spacious design. The Platinum edition will come with premium seating, including heating and ventilation. The rear seats fold up for extra storage and it also has the ability to fully roll down the rear window. Off-Road Capable 4Runner The 4Runner is back and better than ever for the new year. It will come packed with off-road, interior, and technology features like never before. The Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select will help you navigate through any kind of terrain. A large 8-inch touch-screen display along with Android Auto capability let you access your music and navigation easily. It will also come with mud and snow tires on 17-inch 6-spoke alloy wheels. If you have any questions about Toyota's 2020 lineup or would like to schedule a test drive in one of these amazing vehicles we would be happy to help you out. The sales staff at T oyota of Kingsport has extensive knowledge of all of these great cars, SUVs, and trucks. We look forward to working with you. Image via DealerOn

When you are part of a community that you love, giving back doesn't seem like a chore as much as it does a way of life. Not only is it a feel-good moment for you, but it also helps out everyone. If you have children, including them also teaches them what it means to be a part of something bigger than themselves. We have compiled a list of some of the best places to give back to your community here in our lovely town of Kingsport, Tennessee. more TCGC Animal League Inc. TCGC Animal League Inc. is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to changing the lives of neglected animals. When you volunteer here you are giving back to the animals of the community by taking care of them and helping to find them homes. Animals are held near and dear to our hearts. To find out a good time to volunteer, make sure to contact them directly. If you are unable to give your time, they do take donations for the animals such as money for surgeries, medications, and food. They also accept pet supplies such as Purina One cat food and dog food. If you are able to foster an animal of theirs, that would also be a great help. Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee Inc. If you are looking for another way to volunteer, the food bank is a great place to start. They are always looking for volunteers and donations. They depend on volunteers to help with serving the community's needs. Ways to get involved include sorting and packing groceries with nonperishable food items, health items, paper goods, and frozen goods. They also have a backpack program for eligible children to provide them with weekend meals. In addition, you can donate food and funds to the program to help with these items. Toastmasters International The Toastmaster program has a goal to provide a supportive environment for individuals to learn and develop communication skills. This large program is headquartered out of Colorado but has a local club. You can donate to the program as an individual to the Smedley fund to help with the monetary needs of the program. Members of the club do have to pay a small fee but it helps them grow to be successful adults. United Way of Greater Kingsport The United Way of Greater Kingsport has a simple mission, “fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in our community.” They do this through the work of volunteers and donations. This nonprofit organization helps the homeless, teens, families, animals, education, and just about any person in need. If there is one particular thing close to your heart, volunteering through the United Way can help connect you to it. There are many different ways to volunteer, even for just a few hours every month. This is a great way to give back to your community. You can donate through their website as well. We hope our list has given you some great ideas of where to go next time you are feeling generous. Our community thanks you. Image via Pixabay

Keeping up with recommended maintenance is one of the best ways to get your Tundra running at its best. Following guidelines will not only keep your truck running great, but will keep you safe while driving as well. We have gathered some of the best ways to take care of a Toyota Tundra. more Get Your Oil Changed Regularly Keeping up with oil changes as set out in your service manual is one of the easiest things you can do to take care of your Tundra. It is recommended that you change your oil every 5,000 miles or six months, whichever comes sooner. You can wait until 7,500 miles though if you opted for the synthetic oil at your last oil change. This simple upkeep measure keeps your truck running smoothly, and if done properly it can help your truck last for years. Regular Car Washes Cleaning the exterior of your truck is an important part of taking care of your Tundra. You should also pay close attention to the undercarriage and tires to make sure there are no abnormalities there as well. Wax treatments help to protect your paint and keep it shining and looking new for longer. Don't forget the interior when you head to the car wash. Vacuuming, cleaning the surfaces and wiping down leather if you have it will help to extend the interior life. Not only will you stretch out the life of your vehicle, but your ride will be more comfortable if it is nice and clean. Check Fluid Levels There are several different fluid levels you should be keeping up with and checking regularly. These include windshield wiper fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant. These all impact how your truck drives. If you find them low or in need of a change then don't hesitate to contact your local Toyota dealership. Tire Pressure and Tread Checking your tire pressure, especially in the colder months, will help your tires last longer. Properly inflated tires are also safer to drive on. Having over or under inflation can affect how your truck drives. You should also look at your tire tread and make sure there is no uneven wear. You should have your tires rotated regularly to help with this. Your tires are one of the most crucial parts of your vehicle and definitely should not be neglected. Other Routine Maintenance There is a list of routine maintenance suggestions included in the manual of every Tundra. They recommend changing out air filters every 30,000 miles as well as checking and replacing the above-mentioned fluids. After 45,000 miles, it is recommended to check out things such as the exhaust pipe and mounting, brake lines and hoses, and the radiator. When your vehicle reaches the 120,000-mile point you should check the spark plugs and the drive belts. For more information or if you would like to set up a service request please contact us at T oyota of Kingsport. A member of our service department would be glad to help you out. Image via DealerOn

Kingsport, Tennessee, has plenty to offer when it comes to entertainment and the arts. Whether you're looking for family fun or some cultural enlightenment, the city has something for you. Here are five of the best locations. more Kingsport Carousel Located in Pal's Roadhouse on Clinchfield Street, the Kingsport Carousel is a 1956 Allen Herschell carousel that has been completely renovated. It features 32 hand-carved animals, two chariots, and 24 sweep animals above that include birds, raccoons, and a skunk. The final animal to be put in place was a flying pig that celebrates the obstacles that had to be overcome to make the carousel project happen. To commemorate Kingsport as a bird sanctuary, the carousel also has 24 hand-painted birds around the sides. Above the carousel is a carving studio where you can watch the skilled carvers at work. The carousel is open Wednesday through Sunday and all rides are $1. The Mountain Music Museum The Mountain Music Museum on Broad Street was set up by the Appalachian Cultural Music Association to educate people about the history of the region's music. Among the musical treasures to be discovered at the museum are exhibits from legends such as the Carter family, Tennessee Ernie Ford, Flatt and Scruggs, and Dr. Ralph Stanley. The museum also hosts the long-running "Pickin' Porch Show" on Thursday nights. National and international acts perform a variety of music including country, old-time, Americana, and bluegrass. Tickets for the show can be bought at the museum or online and are $15 in advance or $20 at the door. Putt-Putt Fun Center For some family fun, head down to the Putt-Putt Fun Center on West Stone Drive. The 18-hole golf course will provide a challenge for all ages and abilities and is sure to bring out the competitive side of you as you negotiate the obstacles. The cost for one game is $5, but there are discounts for multiple game purchases. Children 5 and under play for free. Kingsport Art Guild The Kingsport Art Guild is located on the second floor of the Renaissance Arts Center. It was established more than 70 years ago to provide opportunities for the local community to experience the visual arts. Shows throughout the year feature photography, art created in various media, and special arts such as quilting. The gallery also offers special events, instructional classes, lectures, and exhibitions. Kingsport Speedway If you prefer high octane entertainment, the Kingsport Speedway on North John B. Dennis Highway will provide the whole family with high-speed thrills. Known as the Concrete Jungle, the speedway hosts a variety of racing events through the year such as the vintage class, the Super Cup stock car series, the kids' power wheels race, Ford or Chevy street car nights, and the NASCAR divisions championship night. These five venues show the variety of entertainment available in Kingsport. You could also check out the Kingsport Ballet, the Symphony of the Mountains, the Kingsport Theater Guild, and more. Image via Pixabay

For a subcompact sedan, the 2019 Toyota Yaris is surprisingly well-equipped with standard features that you only normally find in much larger, and more expensive, cars. The Yaris is offered in L, LE, and XLE trim levels. Here are some of the features that make it more than just an entry-level Toyota model. more Stylish Exterior The Yaris announces its presence with the bold, aggressive mesh grille and fascia, while the sleek sculpted profile adds an air of elegance, and the sporty rear end with its chrome-tipped exhaust gives it the bling factor. The L trim has headlights with distinctive integrated daytime running lights (DRL), 15-inch steel wheels, body-color door handles and power mirrors, and combination taillights. The LE trim adds fog lights, 16-inch split-spoke alloy wheels, heated mirrors with turn signals, and a rear lip spoiler. Stepping up to the XLE gets you LED automatic headlights, LED DRL, and rain-sensing wipers. Interior Features Inside the stylish, contemporary cabin, you'll find ample room for five people, while the trunk has 13.49 cubic feet of cargo space for those weekend trips. L models have contoured sports seats trimmed in premium fabric, a six-way adjustable driver's seat, and 60/40 split-folding rear seats. The L trim also has a push-button start, cruise control, air conditioning, a tilting and telescoping multifunction steering wheel, and chrome interior accents. The LE has a smart key system for the trunk and front doors, while the XLE gives you leatherette upholstery with distinctive contrast stitching, automatic climate control, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel. Multimedia System The multimedia system can be controlled by the remote commander knob and also has a 7-inch touch screen with integrated navigation and backup camera. Features include Bluetooth wireless technology for hands-free calling and media streaming, voice recognition, six-speaker audio with satellite and HD radio, two USB ports with MP3 connectivity, and an auxiliary input. Power and Performance Under the hood is a lively and responsive direct-injection 1.5-liter engine that delivers 106 horsepower and 103 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels. The standard transmission is a six-speed manual, or you can opt for a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. Whether you're headed to the local store, out on the highway, or tackling twisty back roads, the Yaris is fun to drive. The direct steering provides agile handling, while the suspension is tuned to give you a smooth ride. The manual transmission features a short throw for slick gear changes, while the available automatic has a sport mode to liven up your driving experience. Safety Features For confident handling and assured stopping, all Yaris models have an active safety system that offers dynamic stability control, traction control, an anti-lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, and a brake override system. Also standard are a low-speed pre-collision system and a tire pressure monitoring system. Passengers are protected by the advanced air bag system featuring front, side, and overhead curtain air bags. To check out all of the big car features of the Yaris, head over to Toyota of Kingsport for a closer look. Image via DealerOn

When you're want to escape the hubbub of city life for some peace and quiet, you don't have to travel too far from Kingsport, Tennessee, to find some beautiful spaces where you can get closer to nature. Here are some of the best parks and preserves in the area. more Kingsport Greenbelt The easiest way to access nature from the city is the Kingsport Greenbelt which stretches 9 miles from one end of town to the other. With numerous entry points, the Greenbelt is a linear park that connects commercial districts, residential neighborhoods, and traditional parks. It features more than 18 miles of walking trails and bike-friendly paths along rivers, creeks, wetlands, and forests. Walk above the wetlands on the boardwalk, see The Forks where two rivers merge into one, and watch for wildlife on the Kingsport Birding Trail. Bays Mountain Park Covering 3,500 acres, Bays Mountain Park in Kingsport is the largest city-owned park in Tennessee. With 39 miles of walking trails, you can hike up the mountain to take in the views from the fire tower, take a stroll around the 44-acre lake, or visit the waterfalls. For mountain bikers, 32 miles of trails provide a challenge for all skill levels. The park is a nature preserve where you can visit the protected habitats of wolves, bobcats, red foxes, white-tail deer, river otters, reptiles, and turtles. Wildlife that you might spot around the park includes deer, raccoons, blue herons, geese, ducks, and beavers. Barge rides on the lake are available so you can view the park from the water. Warriors' Path State Park Warriors' Path State Park on the shores of the Patrick Henry Reservoir offers 950 acres for recreational activities. The park has 12 miles of hiking trails meandering along streams, through fields and forests, and over high bluffs. More than 12.5 miles of scenic trails are also available for mountain bikers. To get you out on the water, the marina rents canoes, single and tandem kayaks, paddleboats, and paddleboards. Fishermen may be able to catch catfish, trout, bass, and crappie. Almost 120 bird types have been observed in the park including wetland, woodland, old field, and waterfowl species. To prolong your stay in the park, 134 campsites are available with tables and grills. Many of the sites have water and electric hook-ups. Natural Tunnel State Park Just over 20 miles northwest, across the state line in Virginia, is the Natural Tunnel State Park. The tunnel for which the park is named is 100 feet high and 850 feet long and was once called “the eighth wonder of the world.” Seven walking trails lead you to a number of unique features of the park including Lover's Leap, Gorge Ridge, Tunnel Hill, and the tunnel itself. Some fishing is available along Stock Creek with the chance of catching trout. For overnighters, there are campgrounds, yurts, and a lodge. For longer stays, cabins can be rented by the week. Whether you want a short, peaceful stroll, a strenuous hike, or just to relax with nature, these locations offer the perfect getaway. Image via Pixabay

For 2019, the redesigned Toyota Prius retains its distinctive aerodynamic shape but gets a sleek new front fascia and stylish front and rear light layouts. The Prius is now offered with the available AWD-e electronic all-wheel-drive system that gives you improved traction when it's needed. The four available trim levels are L Eco, LE, XLE, and Limited, and AWD-e is an option on LE and XLE trims. more Exterior Features The Prius has stabilizing fins and an active grille shutter to improve airflow. L Eco and LE models offer Bi-LED headlamps, LED daytime running lights, 15-inch alloy wheels, and body-color door handles and heated power door mirrors. Added to the XLE are 17-inch wheels, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic headlamps, while AWD-e models feature unique 15-inch wheels, LED signature lighting, and fog lamps. Stepping up to the Limited trim gets you adaptive front lights with auto-leveling headlamps. Interior Design Inside the Prius, you'll find 27.4 cubic feet of cargo space which increases to a generous 65.5 cubic feet with the 60/40 split rear seats folded. Because of its clever design, you don't lose any load space with AWD-e models despite an extra rear axle electric motor. L Eco and LE models feature keyless entry and ignition, cloth upholstery with six-way adjusting driving seat, climate control, a multifunction steering wheel, and digital instrumentation with a 4.2-inch customizable multi-information display. The Toyota Entune multimedia system features Bluetooth, voice command, iPod connectivity, a 6.1-inch touch screen, and a six-speaker audio system with CD player, three USB ports, and an auxiliary input. The XLE has SofTex simulated leather seating, an eight-way power driving seat, SofTex bound steering wheel and door panels, and wireless phone charging. The top-of-the-line Limited features a color head-up display, a split-screen 11.6 -inch touch-screen display with integrated navigation, and premium 10-speaker audio with satellite and HD radio. Power and Performance Under the hood of the Prius is a four-cylinder 1.8-liter engine that delivers 96 horsepower and 105 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with an electric motor that produces 120 pound-feet of torque to give a total power output of 121 horsepower. The system drives the front wheels through an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. Featured on AWD-e models is a separate rear electric motor to power the on-demand AWD system that provides power to the rear wheels when slippage is detected and extra traction is required. Driver Assist Features Toyota Safety Sense is standard on all Prius models and offers a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, full-speed dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure warning with steering assist, and automatic high beam headlamps. Also included is the Star Safety System with enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, smart stop technology, and ABS with brake assist and electronic brake force distribution. In addition, you get a rear camera and a tire pressure monitoring system. The LE adds blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic warning, while the XLE has an auto-dimming rearview mirror. To get a closer look at all of the stunning features of the 2019 Prius, head over to Toyota of Kingsport. Image via DealerOn

If you're looking for a way to enjoy the natural wonders of Eastern Tennessee, birdwatching is an excellent activity. There are several sites in the Kingsport area where you can enjoy viewing the area's feathered inhabitants. Let's explore some of these sites. more Kingsport Birding Trail The Kingsport Birding Trail (KBT) meanders through several unique habitats, each one an excellent spot for birdwatching. When exploring the urban areas along the trail, you'll see how natural and human-constructed environments exist together and allow each other to thrive. The KBT also includes stops in rural areas, mountain top outposts, and the Kingsport Greenbelt. As the trail takes you along the Holston River, be sure to keep an eye out for the bald eagles that nest there. Other species who live along the Kingsport Birding Trail include the white pelican, snowy egret, and red-necked grebe. Warriors' Path State Park Warriors' Path State Park, on the shores of the Patrick Henry Reservoir, provides visitors with 950 acres to enjoy and explore. The reservoir is home to several species of waterfowl, including heron, kingfisher, and osprey. As you hike the park's 12 miles of trails, you'll journey through a forest that is home to the pileated woodpecker, brown creeper, and Carolina chickadee. You'll also traverse through a marsh where you'll see the barred owl, wild turkey, and ruby-throated hummingbird that live in the park. Warriors' Path also features a creek that serves as a habitat for wood duck, hermit thrush, and great horned owl. Sycamore Shoals State Park Not only is Sycamore Shoals State Park home to many historical sites, but it also features many natural wonders. The Watauga River Trail is an excellent area for spotting yellow-crowned heron, ducks, and migratory warblers. Be sure to stop by the trail's butterfly garden and Monarch waystation. The park's Longhunter Loop takes you through open fields, shrubs, and saplings as you observe cedar waxwing, indigo bunting, and Cooper's hawk. The Sycamore Shoals Arboretum is home to more than 30 species of native trees, as well as blue jays, woodpeckers, and the tufted titmouse. Eastern bluebirds, American robins, and the great horned owl live on the grounds of the historic Carter mansion. Roan Mountain State Park Roan Mountain State Park, located at the base of Roan Mountain, contains more than 2,000 acres of rich hardwood forest, hollows, and ridges. The park's Forest Road Trail traverses two ridges that are home to the hairy woodpecker, northern flicker, and Acadian flycatcher. At the park's picnic shelter, situated along the Doe River, you can observe the belted kingfisher, Louisiana waterthrush, and great blue heron. Screech owl, Cooper's hawk, and wild turkey inhabit the grounds of the historic Miller Farmstead. The Peg Leg Mine Trail and Cloudland Nature Trail, suitable for beginner hikers, are great areas for spotting mourning dove, scarlet tanager, and eastern towhee. These are just some of the fantastic sites for birdwatching in the Kingsport area. No matter which one you visit, you're sure to have a wonderful time discovering these Tennessee treasures. Image via Pixabay

There is nothing like making a great find in a thrift shop. Whether you like to search for vintage clothes, find old jewelry, or you just like great deals, you can have a blast shopping in the thrift stores in and around Kingsport, TN. more Next To New Next To New on Kingston Pike is an upscale consignment and thrift store. This shop sells high-end items from jewelry to shoes, handbags, and designer clothing. You can stop by to find a new outfit for any type of event, or bring in your upscale items that you no longer need. The experienced staff at Next To New will sell it for you, so you get money back in your pocket. The extensive inventory offers prices well below retail prices on name brands, and you can shop knowing that everything you buy is in excellent condition. Good Neighbors Shop Good Neighbors Shop in nearby Lenoir City is a wonderful resale shop with a friendly staff and huge inventory. You can find anything from housewares to kitchen items and exercise equipment. All the proceeds from this shop get donated back to the community so you will help out those less fortunate when you shop here. All the items in stock are in excellent condition, and there is so much to sift through that you never know what you might find. The Attic Resale Shop Stop by The Attic resale shop to search for your next treasure. David, the owner, is friendly and helpful, and the rest of the staff is also knowledgeable and kind. This shop has lots of great items to look through, and the inventory is always changing, so you need to stop by frequently to make sure you don't miss anything. You can find some great prints for your home at The Attic along with furniture, decorations, and much more. NTY Clothing Exchange NTY Clothing Exchange in Knoxville has a wide selection of gently used clothing. Everything is in good condition, and the staff is friendly and helpful. The inventory features name brands, and everything is always organized so you can easily find what you need. This is the shop to go to when you want something trendy and stylish without paying full price for it. If you have high-end clothes that you don't wear anymore, you can bring them in to get cash on the spot. You can also bring in accessories and items for young adults and teens, both female and male. KARM Stores KARM Stores offer a great selection of furniture, some vintage pieces, and clothing. There are several locations in Tennessee, including several in and around Knoxville, which is just a short drive from Kingston. Stop by and find something new to wear or a unique item for your home. If you're a student, show your ID for an extra discount. Check out these thrift stores in and around the Kingsport area. The gently used items come at huge discounts, and you never know what you might find. Image via Pixabay