A Long Weekend Leading into the Big Race
Best time: Friday through Sunday
Friday: Friday Heights & Night Lights
Fresh air in Kingsport followed by Friday night lights at the track
Breakfast
Start your morning country style at Betty’s Stockyard Cafe. This renowned local "hole-in-the-wall" diner is famous for its authentic Southern comfort food and "step-back-in-time" atmosphere. Located right next to a working livestock market, it has served the community for over 30 years under the ownership of Betty Jones, who often greets guests personally
Morning
The "Big View" at Bays Mountain: Start your weekend at Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium. Hike to the fire tower for a sweeping view of the valley or visit the wolf habitat. It’s the perfect "deep breath" before the roar of the engines.
Lunch
Momma D’s is a perfect Friday lunch spot if you want "elevated comfort food" that feels like a home-cooked meal but looks like a gourmet plate. Known for famous grit cakes, a healthy pesto turkey sandwich, daily specials and house-made sides, this downtown staple has a bright, modern, and welcoming "farmhouse chic" vibe.
Afternoon
Downtown Kingsport & The Carousel: Head into downtown Kingsport for a stroll. A "Big Moment" for all ages is the Kingsport Carousel, a hand-carved masterpiece where rides are still just $1.
Dinner
Local Flavor: Grab a pre-race meal at a Kingsport staple like Southern Craft BBQ or Ole Crow Tavern. Both have their own take on barbeque with a twist, and are known for offering expanded menus for any taste.
Evening
The TN Army National Guard 250: Make the 20-minute drive to Bristol Motor Speedway for the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race at 7:30 PM. There is nothing quite like the "bumping and banging" of the trucks under the lights!
Saturday: Heritage & Hauler Parade
Iconic traditions and a deep dive into Sullivan County history
8:00 AM
The Hauler Parade: Witness the "Big Iron" moment as the NASCAR Cup Series haulers parade through downtown Bristol toward the track.
Breakfast
Bristol Bagel & Bakery is a downtown bakery specializing in authentic, New Jersey-style bagels, sandwiches, soups, and sweet treats. Known for a cozy, local atmosphere, they serve breakfast and lunch, offering favorites like lox bagels, tomato basil soup, and unique bagel flavors such as pancake or Asiago.
Activity
Shopping in downtown Bristol is centered on State Street, a historic thoroughfare that serves as the boundary between Tennessee and Virginia. The district is known for its pedestrian-friendly environment and a diverse mix of independently owned boutiques, antique stores, and specialty gift shops.
Lunch
Bistro on 6th is a downtown restaurant offering a farm-to-table, Southern-inspired menu with global influences, featuring items like crispy chili brussel sprouts and Manchego cheese dip.
Mid-Day
The Holston Heritage Moment: Head to Bluff City (about 15 minutes from the track). Visit the Holston Heritage Museum (Open Saturdays 10 AM – 2 PM) to discover the pioneer and river history of the Holston Valley. It’s a quiet, fascinating contrast to the speedway.
Afternoon & Night
The Double-Header: Return to the Speedway for a full afternoon of Cup Series Practice and Qualifying, followed by the Suburban Propane 300 (O'Reilly Auto Parts Series) at 7:30 PM.
Pro Tip: Saturday night usually ends with a free post-race concert in the Fan Zone, a great way to keep the energy going!
Sunday: A Slower Morning Pace & The Main Event
Breakfast
Brunch at Drake’s Bristol is a high-energy weekend event held Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The menu features breakfast-inspired "mash-ups" like the Sunrise Breakfast Quesadilla, the Morning Glory Burger topped with a fried egg, and hearty breakfast burritos filled with tater tots and bacon. Known for its sporty, open-air atmosphere at The Pinnacle, it’s a popular spot to catch a game while enjoying $5 mimosas and bloody marys alongside their signature sushi and mini-burgers.
Morning
Fresh Air at Steele Creek: Spend your morning at Steele Creek Park. Walk the lakefront trails or enjoy the splash pad and scenery. With 2,200 acres, it’s the best place to find a "Big Moment" of Zen before the crowds descend.
1:00 PM
The Pre-Race Build-Up: Arrive at the Speedway. Catch the Pre-Race Concert that usually features a major country act and the legendary Driver Introductions at 2:25 PM.
3:00 PM
The Food City 500: It’s time for the main event. 500 laps of high-intensity Cup Series racing.
Post-Race Concert: Stick around the Food City Fan Zone Stage for live music to cap off the night.
