Let's Go to NorthEast TN - Tri Cities
A nine-hour drive from Chicago or a quick flight gets you the summer getaway you’re looking for.
As an avid traveler, I'm always looking for new and unique places within easy driving or flying distance for Chicagoans. Recently, I headed to Northeast Tennessee to visit the Tri-Cities. The Tri-Cities are located in the northeast corner of Tennessee and consist of Kingston, Bristol, and Johnson City. They are only a 9-hour drive from Chicago or a quick flight from O'Hare or Midway.
We stayed at the Carnegie Hotel and Spa in Johnson City. Billed as a premier boutique hotel, it is a replica of the Carnegie Hotel, built in 1891 and burned down in a fire some years later.
The hotel is gorgeous, complete with an antique bar at Wellington's Restaurant, and the rooms are spacious and comfortable. It has a vintage vibe but also feels modern and familiar. The Austin Springs Spa on-site is lovely. Its full-service spa offers everything from facials to specials on pedicures etc. Next time, I am adding it to my list after a long day of hiking.
This trip was all about nature.
Northeast Tennessee is perfect for a peaceful escape from the city or high-end adventuring.
.Our first stop was USA Raft Adventure and riding down the Nolichucky River. The Cherokee National Forest surrounds the river, with many options. You can raft, tube, or fish right near the Appalachian Trail.
If you're in the area, you can also check out the fantastic trails at Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park. It is an excellent place to mountain bike, with over 40 acres of terrain suitable for all skill levels. It is conveniently located in the heart of Johnson City, so you can stay close and still escape for the day. Stop in Trek Bicycle Johnson City to rent bikes.
The Tweetsie Trail, which starts in Johnson City and rolls 9.6 miles into Elizabethton, is full of chances to see wildlife and is easily accessible, so you can choose when to hop on and off the trail.
After rafting and biking, you're sure to work up an appetite, so check out Burger & Barrel. This awesome hangout built into a historic train depot has massive burgers, an innovative beer garden, and lots of fun yard games to keep you occupied. Don't miss the "million dollar" dips and amazing BBQ platters.
Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium in Kingsport is perfect for nature lovers. It's the largest city-owned park in Tennessee, spanning over 3700 acres of nature preserve. It is home to a nature center and planetarium and boasts fantastic habitats for bobcats, wolves, reptiles, and many more!
Explore the park by hiking, biking, or taking a barge ride via a pontoon boat. You can also camp on-site or explore various nature centers and planetarium programs.
Another great place to eat while visiting is Backwoods Burger Bar. Backwoods make virtually everything from scratch, and it shows. The Burgers are phenomenal, and with names like Big Filthy and Mr. Cheesy, you haven't experienced anything like them. I loved their fried pickles as well!
Make sure Roan Mountain is on your list when visiting Northeast TN. Drive to Carver's Gap to take in the bald mountain sights and head up to one of the planet's most extensive natural Rhododendron Gardens. The purple-magenta flowers bloom by the thousands in June and are quite a marvel. The area has many trail options and easy parking access, so don't worry if you aren't up for a long day.
While in the area, stop at the Americano Steak House & Wine Bar. Complete with lovely views of Watauga Lake, you can dine on award-winning fire-grilled steaks or have a glass of premium wines from the area. One of the local steak favorites is The Hawaiian, a 14-ounce ribeye, so leave room for it.
I love a good winery with great views. Villa Nove Winery is like being in Tuscany with Tennessee vibes.
They have six estate wines you can taste while taking in the Appalachian hills. It was one of our favorite stops and the perfect place to bring your girlfriends.
Speaking of girlfriends, check out Glamping Retro for a posh take on outdoor living if you are looking for glamping opportunities. This campsite has a variety of treehouses and lodge tents that come with everything you need to live your best outdoor life. Most tents have ensuite bathrooms and kitchenettes and free wifi for everyone.
And finally, every trip to the Tri-Cities is complete with some BBQ at Southern Craft BBQ. They have been a staple in the area since 2004, and they have four locations where you can dine in or grab curbside. The variety is unmatched; here, you can chow down on burgers, tacos, and some of the best smoked meat in Tennessee.
Northeast Tennessee has so much to offer, and I could have stayed longer to soak in all of the nature and outdoor views this place offers. Take your chance to travel here and see it for yourself this summer or fall.
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Happy travels!
original story posted: Chicago Star Media
