NASCAR’s famous Bristol Motor Speedway is nestled in the hometown of country music, Bristol, Tennessee. If you’re going to make a quick Tennessee getaway out of the raced weekend, you’re in luck! There are tons of fun things to see and do – from bakeries to breweries, and everything in between, there’s something for everyone in Bristol.
To narrow it down a bit, check out this list of the top 7 hot spots near Bristol Motor Speedway!
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Holston River Brewing
Bristol, Tennessee
Beer, bands, and the best company around – Holston River Brewing is the place to be on race weekend. Check out the taproom and try one of the 12 delicious beers on tap, or sit on the patio and enjoy the great outdoors. Or, better yet, reserve a camping spot for the race weekend and get to know new race fans. You’ll find live music on The Stage, as well as outdoor games, and lots of other fun things to do during your stay. This place puts a lot of heart and soul into bringing Bristol the best of what’s around, and it certainly shows!
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Twin City Drive-In Theater
Bristol, Tennessee
Who doesn’t like a good, old fashioned drive-in movie theater? Twin City Drive-In Theater was opened in 1949 and is still going strong today. It’s a great place to kick back and relax during the race weekend. The high tech projector makes the screen crystal clear, and you can hear the movie through your car speakers using a dedicated FM channel. But the real fun is getting an over the mirror box speaker to tune in. If you’re in the mood to see the latest feature film, coming here is a no-brainer. With double features every night, reasonably priced concessions, multiple vantage points, and plenty of room to spread out, why would you ever choose a traditional chain theater over the Twin City Drive-In?
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Mad Greek
Bristol, Tennessee
If you’re craving Mediterranean food, Mad Greek should be your go-to. They offer tasty Greek and Italian foods like kabobs, stuffed grape leaves, gyros, lasagna, stromboli…the list goes on! Just trust us, you’ll devour anything you order – just make sure to leave room for one of their drool-worthy desserts. Oh, and the best part is, it’s right down the street from the drive-in. Locals will tell you it’s the best place to go to fill up before the movie. Go to Mad Greek for a happy dining experience.
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Paintball XS
Bluff City, Tennessee
Paintball XS is only a stone’s throw away from the race track, making it a must-visit stop during race weekend. If you’ve never gone paintballing before, no worries! They have low impact games for the inexperienced, and even provide all the equipment you’ll need for a fun time. A round of paintball in the woods field is a great place for strategic game play, and will get your pulse pounding in anticipation of an ambush from the underbrush. Don’t miss out on all the fun at Paintball XS!
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Dixie Outpost Barbecue
Blountville, Tennessee
The food at Dixie Outpost Barbecue is lick-your-plate-clean good. The mom and pop restaurant is small, but you won’t miss it – there’s a big yellow school bus waiting to welcome you out front. The smoked brisket will melt in your mouth, and you’ll have your choice of many delectable sauces to slather on top. Dixie Outpost Barbecue is the place you should go when you’re drained after a hot day in the sun, and in desperate need of some good eats.
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620 State Restaurant
Bristol, Tennessee
This Asian Fusion sit down restaurant is a great place for a date night during your Bristol getaway. They’re well known for their sushi, but past customers also love their shrimp and grits and their meatloaf wellington. Embracing the area’s country music roots, the funky, yet rustic decor is the perfect fit. Between great service, live entertainment, and an electric crowd, this restaurant has one of the most fun and friendly atmospheres in the area. You’re sure to have a memorable dining experience here!
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Blackbird Bakery
Bristol, Virginia
If you’ve got a massive sweet tooth, you’ll go crazy in Blackbird Bakery! Blackbird patrons rave about their red velvet cupcakes, creme brulee, Boston cream donuts, and sourdough bread. Everything is freshly baked to perfection each day, so you’re almost guaranteed to find your favorite goodies any time you go. Just be sure to carve out al ittle bit of extra time to visit – this place’s widespread popularity usually means there will be a ton of other people there vying for their favorite treats, too!
Come cheer on Blake in the Food City 300 race at Bristol Motor Speedway, and don’t forget to check out these awesome local businesses while you’re in the area!
What are your favorite places to visit around Bristol Motor Speedway? Let us know in the comments below! We’d love to hear from you!
