Things To Do
in Johnson City
Johnson City is a charming city located in northeastern Tennessee. It is known for its vibrant arts and music scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and live music venues. The city is also home to East Tennessee State University, bringing a youthful energy to the area.
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the nearby Appalachian Mountains and participating in activities like hiking, biking, and fishing.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Winged Deer Park for a refreshing hike and scenic views. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake afterward.
Visit the Hands On! Discovery Center to engage in fun, interactive exhibits. Great for families and education, it sparks curiosity and creativity.
Dine at a local favorite, Mid City Grill, known for its burgers and casual atmosphere. Enjoy a laid-back evening with friends over good food.
Begin with a visit to the Art & Culture Center, where you can view local artwork and exhibitions. Participate in a morning art class if available.
Head to the Asheville Museum of Science to explore both art and science exhibits. This interactive space is ideal for both kids and adults.
Enjoy dinner at the popular Cafe One 11, which offers a varied menu with a focus on fresh ingredients. The cozy ambiance is perfect for unwinding.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to national averages
- Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking and parks
- Strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere
- Access to good educational institutions and healthcare facilities
- Vibrant arts and culture scene with local events and festivals
- Limited job market and economic opportunities in certain sectors
- Public transportation options may be limited
- Hot and humid summers can be uncomfortable
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities
- Potential issues with access to certain amenities and services, depending on the area
Best Activities in Johnson City
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking, mountain biking, and picnicking with beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Explore the historic park, enjoy picnicking, fishing, and walking along the river.
Offers opportunities for fishing, boating, walking trails, and disc golf.
Places to Visit in Johnson City
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, perfect for photos.
Scenic park along the riverfront with beautiful views and photo opportunities.
Scenic trail with various vantage points for capturing the beauty of the area.
Food in Johnson City
Johnson City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential southern breakfast dish consisting of fluffy biscuits smothered in savory sausage gravy. Be sure to try it at Southern Craft BBQ.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked, smoky pulled pork seasoned to perfection. Sample this iconic dish at Mid City Grill for an authentic taste.
Tender catfish fillets, coated with cornmeal and fried until golden. Head to The Firehouse Restaurant for a delightful serving of this local favorite.
Cured and aged ham, often served with biscuits or incorporated into various dishes. Visit Main Street Pizza Company for their delicious rendition.
Spicy fried chicken with a crispy exterior and juicy center. Experience the fiery flavors at Tupelo Honey.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Johnson City Farmers Market for fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and vibrant food stalls offering a variety of street food options.
Make a stop at Founder's Park to indulge in a diverse array of street food offerings from the city's food trucks. The park provides a dynamic culinary experience.
Discover an assortment of international street food vendors at the Downtown Dayz event, showcasing flavors from around the world.
Experience the perfect pairing of local craft beers and delectable street food at various breweries and taprooms scattered across the city.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Johnson City, it is important to respect personal space and maintain an appropriate distance when interacting with others.
Using polite language and good manners is valued in Johnson City, so it's important to be courteous and respectful in conversation.
Johnson City has its own local traditions and customs, so it's important to observe and respect these cultural norms.
Safety
Tipping in Johnson City
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Johnson City, United States is common in the service industry, with standard practice being to tip around 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants, bars, and for services such as haircuts, massages, and taxis.
In Johnson City, United States, payments for goods and services are commonly made using credit or debit cards, as well as cash. Mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also increasingly popular. Many businesses also accept various forms of digital payment, including online transfers and electronic wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Johnson City is in spring when the weather is mild and the flowers are in bloom. Expect outdoor events, festivals, and vineyard tours.
Summer in Johnson City brings warm temperatures and is great for outdoor activities such as hiking, river tubing, and visiting the nearby lakes. Expect lively farmers markets and outdoor concerts.
Fall is a beautiful time to visit Johnson City with the changing colors of the leaves. Expect fall foliage drives, apple picking, and harvest festivals.
Winter in Johnson City can be cold, but it's a great time for indoor activities like visiting local museums, wineries, and enjoying cozy cabin stays. Expect holiday events and Christmas markets.
Johnson City at Night
Hiking in Johnson City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination featuring multiple trails with scenic views, including a challenging trail to the summit.
Offers several trails that meander through wooded areas and along the Holston River, suitable for various skill levels.
Known for its stunning vistas and wild rhododendron gardens, offering trails ranging from easy to difficult.
A vast area with numerous trails, providing diverse terrains and beautiful landscapes for hikers of all experience levels.
Features a scenic trail along the Watauga River, with historical significance and easy access for all hikers.
Aiports
How to reach Johnson City by plane.
Located approximately 10 miles from Johnson City, TRI serves the Tri-Cities region of Northeast Tennessee.
About 100 miles from Johnson City, TYS is the main airport serving Knoxville and the surrounding area.
Located around 120 miles from Johnson City, CLT is a major international airport serving Charlotte, North Carolina.
Approximately 130 miles from Johnson City, GSP serves the Upstate region of South Carolina and provides numerous domestic and international flights.
Roughly 150 miles from Johnson City, ATL is one of the busiest airports in the world and serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Johnson City, primarily of European descent.
The second largest demographic group, with roots in Africa and the African diaspora.
A growing demographic group consisting of individuals with origins in Spanish-speaking countries.
Includes individuals of various Asian descents, though they represent a smaller percentage of the population.
Includes individuals with Indigenous roots and heritage, also a smaller demographic.
Individuals identifying with two or more racial backgrounds, reflecting the diversity of the population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played team sport in schools and local leagues, basketball is popular among both youth and adults in Johnson City.
Soccer has gained traction in Johnson City, with various youth leagues and recreational programs available for all age groups.
Baseball is a staple in the community, featuring local teams and summer leagues that engage many residents.
American Football is very popular at both the high school and college levels, with local teams drawing significant community support.
Tennis is enjoyed recreationally, with several public courts and community events promoting the sport.
Running clubs and events, such as marathons and fun runs, are popular in Johnson City, promoting fitness and community engagement.
Golf courses in the area attract enthusiasts of all skill levels for both leisure play and competitive tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Johnson City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Johnson City offer a variety of plant-based dishes, with options ranging from hearty veggie burgers to vibrant vegan bowls.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities will find numerous eateries accommodating their dietary needs, providing gluten-free menu items and dedicated preparation practices.
The local dining scene prioritizes allergen awareness, with establishments often willing to customize dishes and address specific dietary requirements for patrons with food allergies.