New year, new reasons to explore Kingsport. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, 2026 is the perfect time to experience what makes Kingsport special. From outdoor adventures to can’t-miss events, local flavors, and creative experiences, these 26 experiences capture the heart of Kingsport.
Use this list of 26 experiences to have in Kingsport in 2026 as your inspiration guide for the year ahead. Try one, try them all, or share it with a friend and start planning your next Kingsport adventure!
- Walk or Bike the Kingsport Greenbelt: Cruise 10 miles of scenic, riverside trail that connect parks, neighborhoods, and some of Kingsport’s favorite spots.
- Feel the Roar at Kingsport Speedway: Experience heart-pounding short-track racing where engines roar and hometown fans bring the energy.
- Hike to the Bays Mountain Fire Tower: Earn sweeping mountain views after a rewarding hike to one of the park’s most iconic overlooks.
- Sip Local at a Kingsport Brewery or Distillery: Enjoy locally crafted beer or spirits at Kingsport breweries and distilleries, where great drinks meet relaxed, welcoming vibes.
- Celebrate Summer at Fun Fest: Join one of the Southeast’s most beloved summer festivals packed with concerts, parades, food, and family fun. Experience a full week of community celebration and events for all ages each July!
- Take a Spin on the Kingsport Carousel: Step into a bit of nostalgia with a ride on this beautifully restored, family-favorite carousel.
- Catch a Show at Lamplight Theater or Kingsport Theatre Guild: Enjoy live performances that showcase local talent and bring big heart to the stage.
- Step Back in Time at Exchange Place Living History Farm: Experience Appalachian life as it once was through hands-on demonstrations and historic buildings. Open to the public only for special events and festivals, Exchange Place is well worth the visit – check out their event calendar and plan accordingly!
- Shop Your Way Through Downtown Kingsport: Browse locally-owned boutiques, antique shops, and specialty stores with plenty of small-town charm.
- Enjoy Live Music at a Local Venue: From acoustic sets to open mic nights, Kingsport’s music scene hits all the right notes.
- Feast on BBQ at Racks By The Tracks: Dig into smoky, saucy barbecue and all of your favorite festival foods and this popular annual Kingsport event.
- Try a New-to-You Restaurant: Explore a dining scene full of hidden gems, comfort food classics and unexpected flavors. Follow our Foodie Friday series on social media to discover something new!
- Explore Allandale Mansion: Wander a grand historic mansion set on a 500-acre farm, perfect for photos, events, and soaking in local history at this Kingsport landmark. Christmas Tours at Allandale are a team favorite!
- Tee Off at Cattails at MeadowView: Play a round of golf on a beautifully maintained course known for scenic fairways and championship-level play.
- Grab a Milkshake at the Original Pal’s Location: Taste a Kingsport original where classic fast food and hometown history come together. Pro tip: try the peanut butter milkshake! Our team loves a peanut butter and chocolate mixed shake!
- Cheer on the Kingsport Axmen at Hunter Wright Stadium: Catch America’s pastime with a lively crowd, mountain views, and plenty of ballpark fun.
- Sip the Kingsport Original Long Island Iced Tea: Raise a glass to a Kingsport original by sampling a local Long Island Iced Tea, with even more sips and stops to explore when the Long Island Tea Trail launches in 2026.
- Spend a Saturday at the Kingsport Farmers Market: Shop fresh produce, local goods, and handmade finds while enjoying a relaxed community vibe.
- Paddle the Holston River from Riverwalk Park (opening Spring/Summer 2026): Launch into adventure with scenic river paddling right in the heart of Kingsport. The BlueCross Healthy Place at Riverwalk Park will also feature a playground, walking trail, basketball and pickleball courts, picnic shelters and a splash pad.
- Dig Into Spicy or Savory Wings at Kingsport’s Wing Fling: Celebrate bold flavors and friendly competition at this can’t-miss wing festival. Cheer on our hometown heroes during the Battle of the Badges Wing Eating Competition.
- Explore the Nature Center and the Fox Den Playground at Bays Mountain Park: From hands-on learning at the Bays Mountain Nature Center to big adventures at the new Fox Den Playground, this is a must-do stop for families looking to mix nature, education, and outdoor fun.
- Experience Christmas in Kingsport: Enjoy festive lights, holiday events, and small-town cheer all season long. Don’t miss the Kingsport Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting, a day full of Christmas festivities in Downtown Kingsport.
- Follow Kingsport’s Mural Trail: Discover colorful public art that tells the story of Kingsport, one wall at a time.
- Visit the Marina at Warriors’ Path State Park: Spend the day lakeside with boating, fishing, and scenic views in a peaceful state park setting. The marina offers kayak, canoe, stand up paddleboat and pedal boat rentals.
- Tour the Historic Netherland Inn & Boatyard: Step inside one of Tennessee’s oldest buildings and uncover stories from Kingsport’s frontier past. Don’t miss their annual Christmas at the Inn event and be on the lookout for special events to celebrate America250 in 2026!
- Plan a Pet-Friendly Getaway: Bring your four-legged travel buddy along and enjoy parks, patios, and trails that welcome pets. Check out our Dog-Approved Kingsport page for a directory of pet-friendly businesses!
From outdoor adventures to small-town charm and can’t-miss events, Kingsport has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer getaway, these experiences offer plenty of ways to explore, taste, play, and relax your way through Kingsport with these 26 experiences in Kingsport in 2026.
Start building your 2026 Kingsport itinerary now, and don’t forget to share your favorite moments along the way!
