Why Bristol?
Bristol is known for NASCAR as it is home to one of the world’s greatest and most popular racetracks. Bristol Motor Speedway, which seats in excess of 150,000, hosts NASCAR Sprint Cup events in April and August and both draw fans from all 50 states and more than a dozen countries.
Music also gives Bristol a universal appeal as the city holds the honour of being named the Birthplace of Country Music by the U.S. Congress in 1998. In 1927, the legendary Bristol Sessions took place in the downtown area, giving birth to the “Big Bang” of modern country music with the likes of The Carter Family and Jimmie Rodgers taking part in the historic occasion.
Bristol isn’t just about music and racing, however. When it comes to outdoor beauty, there are few places that can compare to this area. The majestic Appalachian Mountains, coupled with South Holston Lake, offer visitors plenty of options for boating, hiking and so much more.
Bristol has multiple city parks, including Steele Creek Park, which encompasses more than 2,100 acres and features numerous hiking trails around the lake, along with paddleboats, a nature centre, and a golf course. Sugar Hollow Park, just a few miles away, also boasts lovely walking trails, picnic areas, disc golf, single-track mountain biking and a sports complex.
