Bristol’s Influence on Music – Then & Now

Known as the Birthplace of Country Music

The northern Tennessee town of Bristol has had an incredible influence on country and folk music. Ignited by the Bristol Sessions of 1927, Bristol’s impact on the southern sound was rewarded by U.S. Congress in 1998 with the title, “Birthplace of Country Music.”

Former stomping grounds of such Appalachian icons as Jimmy Rodgers and the Carter Family – the most famous of which is wife of Johnny Cash, June Carter – Bristol encourages visitors to have a look around. Get a picture with the Grand Guitar along West State Street, or attend the annual Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion.

Happening each September in downtown Bristol, the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion is a three-day festival allowing Tennessee attendees to pay tribute to their country roots. The festival hosts over 50 bands each year, taking up four Bristol blocks.

Fill your stomach with southern fare, and ears with classic country, and rest up at the Best Western hotel in Johnson City – just a 25-minute drive from Bristol. You'll feel great knowing you've spent time in the "Birthplace of Country Music" – Bristol, Tennessee.

Overview | Nashville: Music City, USA | Memphis: Birthplace of Blues | Bristol: Birthplace of Country Music

Best Western Hotels in Bristol:

Johnson City Hotels

BEST WESTERN PLUS Johnson City Hotel & Conference Center

2406 N Roan Street, Johnson City TN 37601-1704
Phone: (423) 282-2161  |  Fax: (423) 282-2488  |  View Hotel Details  |  Reservations

Complimentary full breakfast, includes biscuits & gravy, eggs, sausage or bacon

Outdoor pool

Rainbow Asian Cuisine, on premises, full service, Thai, open for: lunch, dinner, Completely remodeled restaurant and bar, offering a wide variety of authentic Asian Cuisine.

Pets allowed based on the availability of pet friendly rooms. Up to 2 dogs per room with a 80 pound weight limit. Additional pet types (cats, birds, etc) may be accepted at the hotel's discretion. Pet rate is $15 per day with a $100 per week maximum. A refundable cleaning & damage deposit of $50 is required upon check-in. If damage occurs or excessive cleaning is needed, the deposit can become non-refundable and the hotel may charge additionally to cover the costs of repair and cleaning.

Exercise gym

Sunbathing, pool side and courtyard