Go. All. Out. in Northeast Tennessee - Trails, Rivers & Mountain Towns: Centered in Johnson City, this FAM explores the mountain south through outdoor adventure, cultural heritage, and small-town charm. Writers will hike Buffalo Mountain, bike Tannery Knobs or the Tweetsie Trail, and fly fish the South Holston River. Stops in Jonesborough and Bristol, home to the Birthplace of Country Music, highlight rich storytelling, vibrant downtowns and Appalachian flavor. From mountain biking and hiking to distillery tastings and music history, this is a chance to experience the region’s most unforgettable trails, flavors, and stories. Interested media can extend stay to independently explore the communities recovering from Hurricane Helene.
Location: Johnson City / Northeast TennesseeMinimum Participants: 3
Maximum Participants: 5
Primary Contact: - Amanda Murphy, TN Tourism, 615-948-6573
- Alec Castro, Visit Johnson City, 423-930-0964
Who can attend & Cost: - Active OWAA members (media) - $0
- Supporting group members (non-media, partners, speakers) - $0
- Spouses/partners - Not Eligible (Exceptions for spouses/partners can be made on a case-by-case scenario. Media are welcome to inquire further.)
Transportation: - Self driving? Meet in-market where shuttles will be provided for all itinerary stops.
- Flying? Shuttles available to transport from Chattanooga to destination.
- Closest Airport: Tri-Cities Regional Airport (TRI) is central to cities of Bristol, Kingsport and Johnson City. Shuttles will transport from destination to airport.
ITINERARY (subject to change)Day 1 - Aug. 22- 9:00 AM Travel from Chattanooga to Johnson City
Welcome to Johnson City!
Johnson City is a beautiful town in the heart of the mountain south where you can do you—whatever that means to you! It’s diverse in culture, people, and attractions that appeal to a wide range of folks and interests from the outdoors enthusiast to the art lover. Find yourself in Johnson City, Tennessee and GO.ALL.OUT! - 12:30 PM Lunch at Gourmet and Company
Seasonal American fine cuisine expertly prepared from fresh, and whenever possible, organic, locally grown, raised, and artisan crafted ingredients. - 2:00 PM Check in at Carnegie Hotel
The Carnegie Hotel combines Old World grandeur and modern comfort into an affordably priced, AAA Four Diamond luxury hotel that is tranquil and brimming with character. Amidst the hotel’s Baroque-style décor, guests can enjoy modern amenities including complimentary Wi-Fi, a 24-hour fitness center, and convenient on-site access to Austin Springs Spa and Wellington’s Restaurant. - 5:00 PM Downtown Johnson City Tour
Explore the downtown district of Johnson City, inclusive of local restaurants, retailers, craft breweries, cocktail lounges, green spaces, public art, and 360° mountain views. - 7:00 PM Dinner at Juan Siao
Asian Mexican flavors come together to create delicious options that you aren’t likely to find anywhere else. Delicious cuisine combined with the unique atmosphere creates an amazing dining experience. - Nightcap at The Windsor Speakeasy
This upscale establishment offers the finest cocktails, spirits, wines, beers and light snacks.
Day 2 - Aug 23- 8:00 AM Breakfast at Wellington's at Carnegie Hotel
Serving breakfast and dinner, you’ll find a true taste of the southern Appalachian here. They also offer over four hundred whiskeys and find wines. - 10:00 AM Buffalo Mountain Park Hike
Buffalo Mountain Park is a 725-acre natural resource area obtained in 1994 through a land swap with the U.S. Forest Service. The park is located on the north slope of Buffalo Mountain and consists of steep topography and densely forested land. The park functions as a nature preserve primarily for hiking, picnicking, and nature programs. - 12:30 PM Lunch at Red Mezze
Red Meze is a local chain of two down-to-earth eateries that offer gyros, hummus, and other Greek and Turkish fare, including vegetarian options. The downtown location keeps guests in the heart of the action, with fresh, upscale décor to match the city’s bustling atmosphere. - 2:00 PM Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park or Tweetsie Trail (biking)
Tannery Knobs covers over 40 acres of heavily wooded terrain and is a short ride from downtown Johnson City. The park features off road biking trails for all ages and experience levels and paved pump track as well as stunning vistas for hiking and trail running. Ride. All. Out. at this world class park.
The Tweetsie Trail is the longest rails-to-trails project in Tennessee, traversing the former ET&WNC (“Tweetsie”) railroad between Johnson City and Elizabethton. This newly completed 9.5-mile trail features a compacted stone surface that crosses seven bridges and provides a flat grade for walking, hiking, running, and biking. - 5:00 PM Evening in Historic Jonesborough, "Tennessee's Oldest Town"
Just a short drive from Johnson City is the International Storytelling Capitol of the World, Jonesborough! Rich in regional cultural and historical heritage, a walk along Main Street alludes to the days of classic historic icons such as Daniel Boone and David Crockett, the founding of the State of Franklin, and the publication of the Emancipator in the fight to abolish slavery.
Day 3 - Aug. 24- 7:00 AM To-Go Boxed Breakfast
- 8:00 AM Fly Fishing on South Holston River
South Holston Lake and Dam in Tennessee/Virginia offers stunning scenery within Cherokee National Forest. The dam, completed in 1950, provides great views. A weir oxygenates the river for aquatic life and fishing. It's a top spot for boating, bass, and trout fishing. There's also diverse wildlife and ADA accessible trails. - 12:00 PM Lunch at Bristol Café & Market
Bristol Café & Market offers handcrafted sandwiches with homemade spreads, soups, salads, quiches, desserts, and prepared meals to go. They also provide artisan retail products, emphasizing locally sourced items. Quick service, including call-ahead and online ordering, is available to accommodate busy schedules. - 1:00 PM DIY Downtown Bristol Exploration
State Street presents a very unique atmosphere with two states but one state of mind. The state line between Virginia and Tennessee runs right down the main street of Historic Downtown. Here you will find a plethora of options when it comes to shopping, dining, entertainment, and living. - 2:30 PM Birthplace of Country Music Museum
The Birthplace of Country Music (BCM) nonprofit celebrates Bristol's musical heritage, notably the 1927 Bristol Sessions. It operates the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion festival, and Radio Bristol, reaching a global audience. These branches promote music history and provide community benefit. - 5:00 PM Tennessee Hills Distillery Tour and Dinner
Just minutes from the Hard Rock Casino, the Bristol location offers handcrafted beers, spirits, and delicious food in a lively yet inviting atmosphere. Join us for tours and tastings to experience the craft behind our drinks, then stay to enjoy the best of Appalachian hospitality.
Day 4 - Aug. 25Various Departure or independent media itineraries Greene, Carter, or Unicoi Counties - email for more info.
Deadline to Register: July 15, 2025
