By Debi Lander
mail@floridanewsline.com
I thought I was going to Bristol, Tennessee, but upon arrival, I realized the city lies within two states. The state borders of Tennessee and Virginia run down the middle of State Street. You can stand with one foot in the Volunteer State and the other in the Old Dominion. Rather fun! I also found the famous lighted Bristol Sign across from the railroad station proclaiming Bristol “A Good Place To Live.” The sign has been in place since 1915.
Those who watched Ken Burn’s documentary “Country Music” will be drawn to Bristol to learn more about the official Birthplace of Country Music. Back in 1927, a Victor Talking Machine music producer went to Bristol to record artists performing their songs. These recordings, known as the Bristol Sessions, were not recorded on multiple tracks with numerous takes but captured in real-time into one microphone. The Birthplace of Country Music Museum, a Smithsonian affiliate, tells the story of these famous and groundbreaking “Sessions.” A superb introductory film explains how these recordings brought country music into mainstream households and catapulted the Carter Family and Jimmie Rodgers to fame. The attraction showcases interactive exhibits, a working radio station, fascinating memorabilia, theater experiences, and video clips. Plan to spend half a day having fun with the hands-on displays and take a turn recording a song in a sound room.
The city keeps its connection to country music, mountain music, old-time, bluegrass, gospel, and blues with an annual music reunion every September. The Bristol Rhythm and Roots Music Festival attracts thousands who come to listen to performances on 10 different stages around town. For three days, the streets are closed to traffic, and people stroll along enjoying top artists.
If you are a NASCAR fan, you will know of another crowd-pleaser, the Bristol Motor Speedway. The popular race track hosts two major races each year, plus multiple events at the Bristol Dragway, one of NHRA’s best venues.
For a change of pace, head to Bristol Caverns and take an invigorating underground tour of sublime rock formations. An underground river carved the beautiful caverns some 200 million years ago. Be sure to wear non-slippery shoes and plan on constant year-round temperatures between 50 and 60 degrees F.
I stayed at the Hotel Bristol, far above what I expected, and one of the most excellent hotels ever. The place makes ideal overnight lodging for a road trip. The former Reynolds building was turned into a boutique hotel. They kept the Roman arched entryway and provide oversized rooms, luxury bathrooms, and dreamy beds. The hotel restaurant surpasses your needs, and the rooftop bar naturally serves barrel-aged Tennessee whiskeys.
While in Bristol, consider lunch at the Burger Bar, a classic 1942 diner with some original décor. Another lunchtime choice is Bloom, a woman-owned business that’s become a favorite downtown eatery.
For dinner, don’t miss Union 41, a converted bus station offering culinary delights from the award-winning Chef T of the Food Network. Again, the quality and presentation of my meal blew me away, and, of course, there was live country music.
Bristol is part of The Crooked Road, a 300-mile trail dedicated to musical heritage. The trail winds through 19 counties, four cities, and more than 50 towns. It includes nine major venues and more than 60 affiliated venues and festivals. Carrie Beck, director of the trail, says, “The venues and musicians of the region are truly unique and bring musical traditions to the visitors and their communities. It’s authenticity at its best.”
Both Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia have a lot to offer travelers. ExploreBristol.com.
Visit www.bylandersea.com to read more of local travel writer Debi Lander’s stories and travel tips.
Photo courtesy Debi Lander
The famous Bristol Sign.
