How to Find Entertainment and the Arts in Kingsport

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.

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

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