Town Of Kingsport - Kingsport, TN Area Guide

Throughout its history, the Kingsport area has gone by many names, including Peace Island, Big Island, Long Island and Island Flats. Other historic names for the city include Christiansville and Rossville before becoming the shortened version of King's Port that stuck. The area was historically a meeting place for treaties and other dealings between the Native American tribes and early settlers. The city's river location served early settlers and pioneers well, creating the opportunity for transportation and connection to cities along the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers.

Kingsport has numerous historic sites and places, including the Allandale Mansio, Netherland Inn House Museum & Boatyard Complex and Hammond House. Annual events include the Kingsport Fun Fest in July.

Kingsport's food scene keeps diners happy and full. With restaurant names like Pal's, Phil's Dream Pit, The Purple Cow, Crazy Tomato and The Shack, you know you can find something you won't find anywhere else. The center of Kingsport holds the most restaurants, but you can find a spot to eat throughout the city.

With a wacky exterior featuring -- you guessed it -- purple cows, Purple Cow wins for creativity and food. This fast food joint has a drive-thru but no seating. The menu includes a long list of specialty burgers and even more sandwiches. The steak bombs keep customers coming back, and the broccoli bites prove as filling as any appetizer can be. The Big Hog features hand-pulled BBQ pork with the option of homemade slaw and shredded cheese.

Kingsport has no shortage of BBQ joints, and many of them win over die-hard BBQ fans with unique takes on traditional smoked and tender meats. Phil's Dream Pit serves up a full menu, making it difficult to choose your meal. Order the pork wings -- succulent shank meat -- for a tender, lean cut of meat that soaks up the hickory smoke flavor of the pit. Phil's also has several homemade sauces to choose from.

While traditional American and Southern fare make up most of the city's restaurant selection, finding other cuisines throughout Kingsport isn't difficult. Crazy Tomato on Fort Henry Dr serves up Italian food with hearty portions. Large, individual slices of pizza fill even the biggest appetites, while the homemade pasta dishes fill whole plates.

Thai Noodle Town wins the hearts and bellies of diners with a fresh and authentic selection of Thai dishes. The summer spring rolls have a great crunch and distinctive hint of mint, while noodle dishes keep the Thai spice and flavor alive.

Kingsport has its share of bars and live music as well, making a night on the town doable without making a long drive. The Shack, a local BBQ joint and bar, features live music and a rustic, country atmosphere. Marker 2 Grille at Lakeview Marina has a knowledgeable staff and great ambiance for live music and just hanging out. Other bars include neighborhood hangouts, night clubs catering to the younger crowd and social clubs with karaoke and pool.

With major federal and state highways running through Kingsport and Interstate 81 running through the south side, residents easily drive to destinations including Bristol, Johnson City and various attractions, parks and amenities throughout the region. Street parking and large parking lots accommodate drivers.

Despite its small size, Kingsport keeps cyclists happy and safe with numerous trails, bike-friendly roads and a few bike lanes. The downtown area has ample sidewalks for walking to and from destinations, while residential areas serve as convenient spots for a stroll in nice weather.

Kingsport Area Transport Service has numerous routes to connect riders with popular destinations, work and services. While you can call a traditional taxi service for a ride, ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft don't have a place in Kingsport.

Kingsport Parks and Recreation prides itself on being a model for other cities in Tennessee. In addition to lush park lands, the Parks and Recreation Department manages several community centers, the Greenbelt Fitness Trail, Riverview Splash Pad, Scott Adam Memorial Skatepark and several sites of interest and history.

In addition to fitness, sports and outdoor recreation parks, Kingsport also has Kingsport Dog Park, an off-leash dog park that allows dogs to exercise and socialize safely while enjoying the outdoors without constraint.

The Parks Department hosts numerous events throughout the year, including Art Nights City Lights, a performing arts series, sculpture walks and numerous activities for every age group and lifestyle. Most parks are free to enjoy, but some facilities and activities come with small fees, deposits or other costs.

Bristol and Kingsport stay on par with each other as far as cost of living goes, and the index hits approximately 17 percent below the national average. Housing stays affordable, with the average rental rate hitting around $565 per month.

Depending on your bar of choice, you can grab a beer for under $2, meaning a night out with friends won't break the bank. Gas prices come in about 11 percent below the national average. If you prefer mass transit, a ride on KATS costs $1.

Outer Kingsport features national chain stores, including department stores of every type. Downtown, however, plays home to locally owned shops that fill historic buildings. From fine men's clothing to bakeries, antiques to gift shops, the downtown area boasts something for everyone.

Blakley-Mitchell Co has a store downtown on Broad Street. This men's clothing store has been around since 1933 and features high-quality shoes, accessories and clothing for men of every age. While the focus does lean more toward professional attire, designer trends also make their ways into Blakley-Mitchell.

Several antiques stores line downtown Kingsport's streets, including Haggle Shop Antiques on Broad. Walking through Haggle Shop requires more than a day if you want to see everything, which keeps visitors on their toes while searching for that hard-to-find item.

Downtown bakeries keep your sweet tooth satisfied while also providing services for events and parties. Several grocery stores call Kingsport home, including national chains, locally owned franchises and smaller, one-off specialty markets. Kingsport Farmer's Market takes place May through October on Wednesday and Saturdays, connecting area residents with fresh produce, eggs, crafts and baked goods.