Race Week + Explore Sullivan County
Best time: Wednesday through Sunday
Wednesday: The Big Rhythm Arrival
Focus: Bristol’s Downtown & Music Roots
Late Morning
Arrive in Bristol and head straight for State Street. Stretch your legs by walking the Tennessee/Virginia state line.
Lunch
Check out Tennessee Hills Distillery for smoked wings with spirits and beer crafted on site. A tour of this facility is a must!
Afternoon
Grab some new gear at The Pinnacle Shopping Center with a variety of shops and activities for all ages. This 1.2 million square foot open-air lifestyle shopping center is located at I-81, Exit 74. Anchored by Bass Pro Shops, Belk, and Best Buy, it features over 75 national retailers, diverse dining options, and entertainment, including a 12-screen cinema and a trampoline park.
Before Dinner
Visit the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. This sets the tone for your whole trip, explaining why this region is where country music first began.
Evening
Enjoy dinner in Downtown Bristol. Check out Stateline Bar & Grille or nearby hotel rooftop for a view of the city as it gears up for race weekend. Downtown Bristol also offers a variety of craft beer and cocktails.
Thursday: A Lesson in History
Focus: Small Town History
Morning
Grab coffee and a locally made pastry from South Fork Coffee in Bluff City before driving west to Piney Flats for Rocky Mount State Historic Site. Step back into 1791 at the territorial capital of the Southwest Territory. It’s a "living history" moment that feels worlds away from the roar of engines.
Lunch
Stop by Hickory Tree Grocery Store for local chat and fresh-from-the-grill burgers with daily specials. Described as a "hidden gem," the store offers a nostalgic, old-timey experience often compared to a classic Southern diner scene. The interior features farm-oriented decorations and a community-focused layout where locals often gather to share stories. Historically, the building once housed an auto shop and feed barn, and in the 1970s, it was a known spot for playing bluegrass music around a wood stove.
Afternoon
Drive along the South Holston River to Osceola Island for a serene escape through walking trails and native wildlife. This is one of the top fly-fishing spots in the country—the serene turquoise water is the ultimate pre-race reset. Then head to nearby Blountville for a tour to hear the stories of the Old Deery Inn.
Dinner
Grab a burger in Blountville at Bond-O Burgers followed by a local craft brew at The South Fork Taphouse. It’s the perfect way to see the county's quieter side.
Friday: Only in Kingsport & Night Racing Action
Focus: Kingsport Originals & The Truck Series
Morning
Start off at The Bagel Exchange in downtown Kingsport for breakfast. Known for fresh, New York–style bagels, this bright and friendly spot serves hearty bagel sandwiches and a variety of flavorful cream cheeses. You can’t go wrong with any of their bagels! Whether you’re in the mood for a classic spread or a bagel sandwich.
Then, browse through downtown Kingsport for local shops, unique finds, and a little stroll to work off breakfast. Anytime you’re in Kingsport, be on the lookout for the Kingsport Original Long Island Iced Tea. Whether you’re looking for a craft cocktail experience or pastries and chocolates, this flavor has a story worth sharing.
Lunch
Nick’s Restaurant is known for delicious chicken dishes and tasty sides. Nick’s also has a spacious, fenced-in turf area for kids and a bright, friendly atmosphere. You don’t leave hungry with their generous portion sizes and dessert selection. The menu keeps everyone happy!
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at King’s Sport Axe House, where you can try your hand at axe throwing in a safe, guided space. A fun challenge that’s a great way to try something new, whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro. When you’re done, head next door to High Voltage to grab a drink and unwind. It’s a relaxed, entertaining way to spend part of the afternoon.
Evening
Shift gears and head to Bristol Motor Speedway for the Tennessee Army National Guard 250 (NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series).
Post-Race
Stay for the Non-Stop 90's Concert in the Fan Zone to end the night on a high note.
Saturday: Full of Traditions
Focus: The Hauler Parade & On-Track Action
Breakfast
Grab a biscuit, cheddar rounds, and a sweet tea from a Northeast Tennessee original, Pal's, and head to the Volunteer Parkway for a parking spot and a tailgate breakfast.
8:00 AM
The Food City Hauler Parade cruises through Bristol. This is a bucket-list moment—seeing the massive team transporters navigate the tight downtown turns.
Mid-Day
Visit the Holston Heritage Museum in Bluff City (open 10 AM – 2 PM). It’s a local gem that shares the story of the river valley pioneers.
Lunch
Ridgewood Barbeque is a Sullivan County tradition that goes back nearly 80 years and is still running strong. This sweet and tangy staple is located on a back road only 10 minutes from the track. Feeling adventurous? Order a side of blue cheese to complement hand-cut fries and savory beans.
Afternoon
Backyard Terrors Dinosaur Park is one of those hometown favorites that’s drawn in visitors across the country to witness one man’s passion for all things prehistoric. Featuring over 40 to 90+ handmade, life-sized dinosaur sculptures, the park offers a self-guided, wooded walking trail, a fossil dig site, and educational exhibits, providing an immersive, family-friendly experience focused on prehistoric education and imagination.
Evening
Back to the track for the Suburban Propane 300 and Cup Series qualifying. Saturday at Bristol is a marathon of speed!
Sunday, April 12: The Big Finale
Focus: Kingsport Sunrise & The Food City 500
Morning
Start your final day in Kingsport. Head to Bays Mountain Park to see the wolves and walk the lake trail, then make a quick stop at the Kingsport Carousel, a "Big Moment" of pure nostalgia for all ages.
Lunch
Brunch at Two Dad’s Cafe in downtown Kingsport is essential before a big day at the track serving homemade comfort food, fresh coffee, and Southern favorites. Known as one of the best breakfast spots in the area, they serve fluffy pancakes, biscuits and gravy, country breakfast plates, burgers, Cuban sandwiches, chef salads, and daily homemade specials. This family-owned diner has been a local favorite for over 14 years, offering generous portions, fair prices, and friendly service.
1:00 PM
Head to the Speedway for the pre-race concert and the world-famous Driver Introductions, and get ready for the green flag for the Food City 500 at 3:00 P.M
