This Quiet City In The Southern United States Is Hiding In Plain Sight
In the foothills of Eastern Tennessee, Johnson City offers a blend of Appalachian charm, outdoor adventure, and artistic culture aided by the campus of East Tennessee State University (ETSU). A relatively quiet town that is often overshadowed by larger urban centers, Johnson City boasts a vibrant arts scene, a commitment to local independent businesses, and easy access to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether checking out the biking trails high above the city at Tannery Knobs, eating a Thai peanut chicken taco at White Duck, or enjoying tea and conversation at The Philosophers House, Johnson City is emerging as a must-visit town in the Southern US for adventurers and curious travelers alike.
Welcome To Johnson City
Known primarily as a major railroad junction in the late 19th century, today, Johnson City embraces its industrial past while maintaining a modern sensibility through its transformed and walkable downtown. Learn about East Tennessee’s history at the Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site, which includes the Penny McLaughlin Education and Museum Center, as well as 11 historic buildings, a cemetery, a limestone cave, a natural spring, and a nature trail over its 45 acres. To get a true sense of the city's history, make sure to visit the Johnson City Railroad Experience. With its exhibits and interactive displays, the museum pays homage to the role railroads had in shaping the city as it stands today.
You'll find plenty of familiar chain hotels and a range of vacation rentals to make a comfortable and convenient home base, but a stay at the historic boutique Carnegie Hotel and Spa is a cut above. Across the street from the ETSU campus, the landmark hotel was originally built in 1891 and features the full-service Austin Springs Spa and Wellington’s restaurant, as well as a sophisticated atmosphere amid traditional decor.
Explore Outdoors
Its proximity to the mountains and hiking make this a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The Appalachian Trail is a 2,200-mile footpath stretching from Georgia to Maine and passing through 14 states, including Tennessee. While the AT does not run through the town itself, Johnson City serves as an easy access point for those who want to hike south along the popular route towards Great Smoky Mountains National Park or north toward Virginia and beyond.
For something significantly less daunting, the Tweetsie Trail is a 10-mile multi-use rail-to-trail path that runs between Johnson City and Elizabethton. The gravel path is mostly flat for ease of use and offers incredible views as well as a bit of history along the way. Meanwhile, Buffalo Mountain Park boasts 725 acres consisting of steep trails and densely forested land on the north slope of the mountain, and serves as a nature preserve. It’s a great spot for hiking, picnicking, and participating in nature programs led by interpretive guides. Park in the lower parking lot at the mouth of Catbird Creek and follow it to the White Rock Loop Trail for a hike that leads to stunning views from the Huckleberry Knob Overlook.
Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park offers 40 acres of trails and caters to all experience levels, with features that include a paved pump track and even wooded trails for hiking and running, with amazing mountain views. For getting outside without leaving town, Founders Park spans five acres and has walking paths, public art, a creek, and an amphitheater, while King Commons is a popular gathering spot for summer’s Fridays After Five music series, as well as the Candyland Christmas during the holidays.
Eat and Drink Like a Local
When hunger strikes, the selection of restaurants in Johnson City is as varied as its outdoor activities. Freiberg’s downtown restaurant serves authentic German cuisine, including schnitzel, bratwurst, and sauerkraut, as well as a selection of German beers, while Freiberg’s Biergarten boasts an expansive beer menu and an outdoor patio across town from the restaurant. White Duck Taco Shop is another restaurant not to be missed. The popular regional chain is known for its creative spin on the favorite handheld street food. Korean Beef Bulgogi with avocado puree and kimchi, anyone?
Enjoy handcrafted barrel-aged beers and bourbon at the Tennessee Hills Brewstillery. The brewery also makes whiskey, rum, gin, vodka, and a line of canned cocktails. If alcohol isn’t your (ahem) cup of tea, visit The Philosopher’s House, a tea house, gathering place, library, and class space in one. Designed with the intellectually curious in mind, it’s a place to relax and explore new ideas with like-minded members of the community via classes, meetups, book groups, and more.
Shop Downtown Johnson City
As a college town, Main Street's energy is vibrant and eclectic. Explore Johnson’s Literary Depot, which sells new and used books, plays host to book clubs, features reading areas, and hosts live events. It’s just a few doors from Calli Rose, an independent women’s clothing and accessories shop that sells gameday clothing for cheering on the ETSU Bucs. Meanwhile, Artisans' Village offers handcrafted fair trade items from around the globe, and Retro Mansion sells new and used video games and horror collectibles.
With its walkable downtown, welcoming creative spirit, and easy access to both mountain trails and cultural landmarks, Johnson City quietly delivers an experience that feels more urban than Appalachian. Whether spending time hiking and exploring creeks in Buffalo Mountain, browsing independent bookstores, shops, and restaurants, or learning about the city’s railroad roots, the city rewards its visitors who value its small-town feel.
