Bristol is a unique place and with so many people making extended visits to the Mountain Empire for the Battle of Bristol, it is displaced locals and real locals responsibility to help give some pointers to make sure our friends from out of town are not sitting around the campgrounds board out of their skulls.
Pointer 1:
Arrived early? You don't feel like going to a sit down restaurant for a meal? Only a few miles up the Volunteer Parkway from the racetrack is Pals Sudden Service.
http://www.palsweb.com/images/companyinfo_building.jpg
For about $6, you can get a Big Pal (a big hamburger), a large "Frenchie Fry" (a special seasoning mix makes these unique), and a Pals Big Tea. Pals has a knack for keeping the condiments and toppings ice cold, which brings out the flavor of the burger. The ordering system is a bit unique (drive through only, order at the first window, pay and get food at the second), however the politeness and quality of food make it worth the initial awkwardness.
Location:
Pal's #10 960 Volunteer Parkway Bristol, TN 37620 (423) 652-2291
M-SAT: 6am-10pm
SUN: 7am-10pm
There are also locations at Exit 7 in Virginia, the Bass Pro Shoppes at the first Tennessee exit on 81, and in Blountville.
Comments
Tip 2:
If you are looking for BBQ, or want BBQ to use at your tailgate, you cannot beat Ridgewood BBQ. http://www.yelp.com/biz/ridgewood-barbecue-bluff-city
It is located in Bluff City, but make no mistake, it will be the best BBQ you have ever tried. Order early (call several days in advance for orders on game day) and expect wait if you go to eat there, but it is worth the short track south from the race track.
If you are at the tail end of I26, off exit 10 is Phil's Dream Pit. They do pretty good ribs, although I prefer their wet ribs over their dry rub which I'm not a fan of. Baked beans are some of the best I've ever had.
But their specialty is something called Pork Wings. These are amazing. Just try to get there early in the day before they sell out.
The very best BBQ comes off my Pit Barrel Cooker though. 300 bucks, and worth every penny.
I too have one of these magic food vessels. Highly recommended!
I can also vouch for Phils dream pit, eastern Starr road exit for the best beans ever.
I like Phil's Dream Pit as well. Dry rub is ok, not great.
Also past Bluff City towards Elizabethton is Ridgewood barbeque, which I think has been discussed on tkp before.
I can attest to ridgewood BBQ. Awesome.
As stated, Ridgewood is incredible!! Lines out the door every day its open.
French, I love you, but them's fighting words. Right smack in the middle of Bristol is a place called Baconland. They have the best hog I have had in North, South, East, or West Carolina.
I found this place by accident one day while looking for ambulance parking for a different restaurant. Happiest accident of my life.
I actually have not heard of Baconland. But, I was really looking for a good reason to use this meme and couldn't find one.
Heard of it or not, how could you pass up a place called Baconland?
I need a campground recommendation from someone that has been to the local ones? I tried to book Thunder Mountain for 3 campers, but no call back and email doesn't go through.
http://www.bristolmotorspeedway.com/events_tickets/camping/593214.html
Yeah I'm aware of what is around, looking for someone's experience at some of them to give a recommendation.
Gotcha. Apologies for stating the obvious. Wish I could help you out but I've never camped for a Bristol race.
I am staying with my folks up above Exit 19.
Thunder Mtn under new ownership.....I'm staying there and got a call last week with a new contact. Try Kevin @ 1-423-946-2380.
Thanks for starting this thread. You led off with a home run with Pal's and Ridgewood.
I'll add on with Bella's Pizza on Lee Hwy. There's also one in Abingdon. Great pizzas and salads, and even better subs. Italian Sausage with Ham Capp is my mainstay.
1351 Lee Hwy, Bristol, VA 24201
Don't go if you need a quick, get in/get out kind of meal. Everything is made fresh so it takes awhile, so sit down and enjoy your company. It's worth it.
Yes to Bella's! Great pizza
This bears repeating......Italian Sausage and Ham Cap......DO IT!
Don't forget, you can get growlers filled (at least at the Abingdon location.)
So service dogs are welcome? ;)
So you guys think I should go??? I've been torn for a long time...
I have not decided on going to the game, but I am coming to town and roaming the RV campgrounds.
That was my plan and then possibly trying to try to grab some cheap tickets last minute.
I think we'll see serious price reductions from BMS as we get closer to September in order to sell it out.
RV or Hotel? I feel like the true Bristol move is to RV it, but I've never rented an RV before - what things must I consider as far as water, electricity, sewage, etc?
most RVs you can rent will come with on board water and sewer tanks. Bristol may still have some lots with water and sewer hook ups but they'll be on the expensive side. I'm not sure about electric hook-ups at Bristol but you can always rent a generator with your RV to solve that problem. Biggest consideration you'll probably need to make is gas money for an RV. The closer you can rent it to Bristol the better off you'll be.
I've Rented and owned......
If renting....reserve early !! RV's can be hard to find on popular weekends. Also the campgrounds around the speedway are filling up too I've heard.
Gas is cheap right now.....and looks to stay cheap, so that will hopefully help if you driving a long way. Renting from a private party is the way to go in my opinion if you can find one. The RV's tend to have all the extras.....where as places like 1-800-rentrvs are stripped down models.
Might I suggest renting this bad boy...
I'm sure there are some similar parking spots to be found in the mountains out that way.
I've never rented an RV, so I can't answer your questions, but RV is a rather entertaining movie. Just do the opposite of everything that Robin Williams does to the big rolling turd.
If you rent an RV, it will/should come with anything you'd need to hook up in a full service campground. You will have a decent sized fresh water tank, a reasonable hot water tank, and propane to run them. Most campgrounds these days have electric and water, the ones who cater to RV's will likely have sewage hook ups as well. Your RV will have a holding tank for sewage and gray water. Depending on usage, you may be ok with that even if you don't have a sewage hook up, most campgrounds having a sewage dump station on site. Even without water hook ups, you can usually find good water to put in jugs and transfer to your RV's fresh water tank. Some RVs will do just fine without any hookups for a little while, but batteries do run down and not all things can be run on propane or battery, AC being the most notable.
I have recently returned from 33 straight days camping, and found that while there will be exceptions, most campground fees are reasonable for the location, and to our way of life, more comfortable and fun than motels.
Many private campgrounds offer cable hook ups as well, and RVs often come equipped with plug ins.
That's about all I got. Hope it helps.
Some pretty good breweries are popping up in the area if you want to check out some local beers.
I have only been to Wolf Hills in Abingdon so far (http://wolfhillsbrewing.com)
But have heard good things about:
Bristol Brewery: http://www.bristolbrew.com/#!home/mainPage
Holston River Brewing Company: http://hrbrewing.weebly.com/home.html
Damascus Brewery: http://m.thedamascusbrewery.com/OUR-BEER.html#default.html
Check the hours because they aren't always open
Also, Johnson City Brewing Company is owned by a Hokie
http://johnsoncitybrewing.com/
Tasty brews, and the owners are very sociable.
If you are bringing a youngster, they do their own root beer that was a big hit with our little girl.
ETA, the pizza place right next to them (Main St. Pizza) is very very good.
This place is new. Haven't had a chance to go home and try it yet.
http://www.studiobrew.net/
Hadn't realized they were open already. :( I'll go try them out for you if you send me some money. You're welcome in advance.
Let me just put a check in the mail.
Holston River Brewery and Damascus Brewery are very good. I've heard mostly bad things about Bristol Brewery, but have not tried myself.
Bristol Brewery isn't that great. The seating is terrible. Holston River is the best in the area I believe. Very nice set up and great beer. I go there every Saturday night after work. There is also a really good bar in Bristol called O'mainnin's pub that has cheap drinks downtown. Only downside is it is a smokers bar.
And please, y'all, don't forget to tip your bartenders!
Holston River is my favorite by far as well. I've probably seen you there on Saturdays, although I haven't been recently.
Well, I'm usually sitting in a VT Columbia fleece or Bill Gatton Acura pull over with an older man name Wayne who always wears a Ralph Lauren hat. If you notice him, I'm usually there beside him. Give me a shout.
My favorite place to eat in downtown Bristol (no reservations and can sometimes be a wait):
620 state
My favorite place to eat close to the race track (less than a mile):
Mad Greek
My favorite place to eat home-style food:
My House
I was really thinking you'd say Eatz on Moore for home style.
Yelp Link
Yeah, never eaten there, but have heard they are #1.
My group is renting a house to stay in for the game. Close to the track.
Step 1: Make the drive to Kingsport. (~25 mins)
Step 2: Eat at the Purple Cow.
Garbage Fries!
Step 3: Lay down for a few hours.
If you are staying in Abingdon, The Tavern for a nice dinner is a must visit (the oldest bar west of the Blue Ridge), and ChikNLittle has the best breakfast and home made pies around.
Can't forget Allison's in Abingdon, either.
Best potato soup in the world!
That was my go-to date spot in high school/first year at EHC. I don't know if I have been there since around 2000.
Damn, you guys. Throw a football game and a food fest breaks out!! Sounds like a week just to hit the culinary high spots of Bristol.
Eating and shopping is ALL Bristol has.
Well, GoKart, you guys got me at the eating.
Eating, shopping, AND outdoor activities.
That's true. I miss mountain biking and hiking for geocaches.
There's fishing around for those who are afflicted
How about a must play golf course Friday before the game?
I would probably say Clear Creek Golf Course in Bristol, VA. You can find their rates here. The Virginian and the country club in Bristol, TN come to mind, but I don't know if membership applies there....
I believe "The Club" does not require a membership, but the Virginian does. Not 100% on that though. I would say Clear Creek is probably the nicest. I heard The Club will becoming membership only soon though.
I just checked about The Club, and you're right, they don't require a membership yet. I go to the gym there and I wasn't sure if golf was affected since part of the Club was bought out by Lifestyle Fitness.
I am not sure how you get access, but The Virginian is the best. For public access, Clear Creek is very nice.
For those on a budget, just take a 5 iron, a wedge, a putter, and a rolling cooler and walk through E&H's remaining 5 holes.
Was looking around at this too. Have a buddy that has family in Bristol, VA, so he spends some time down that way. These are his recommendations:
And if you feel like spending a few bucks, and getting a little further away, Primland is an option.
I'm uncertain whether or not it remains true, but when Cattails was first built, it was the only PGA-rated course in the Tri-Cities area. I learned this while working for a temp agency the summer after my freshman year at VT, laying sod for the golf course and nearly dying of heat stroke.
Did I mention Pals? If you don't go there, you are making a major error in judgement.
It is sad that Bristol doesn't still have the Krispy Kreme. That place was MONEY when I was a kid.
FACT: French loves cheddar rounds.
Unrelated note: RIP VTMaroonOrange.
Prediction? PAIN.
Nothing will replace KK, but Donut World is not bad.
One reason Pal's hamburgers are so damn good is that, while they don't cook to order a la Five Guys or Smashburger, they transfer the hamburger patties straight from the grill to a vat of au jus that's kept at 190 degrees. Then they assemble the burgers as they're ordered. So the hamburger meat picks up all the flavor of the au jus.
PS, that fry seasoning is just straight Lawry's. What makes the fries so good is that they're fried in vegetable shortening.
I met Pal Barger while hammered one night at Carrabba's and after some careful questioning I was able to confirm that the seasoning salt on the fries is indeed Lawry's. If Lawry's and Franks Red Hot had a child it would take over the world.
I was able to confirm it because that's what the bottle of stuff I shook on the fries said.
Pal Barger's daughter ran the location I got my first job at. That family is not averse to hard work. He literally built that company from nothing, and it's consistently one of the highest rated fast food chains in America. And I'll say this: I hear a lot of horror stories about people who work at a fast food restaurants saying they'll never eat there again after they work there. I would eat off the floor of a Pal's. The cleaning schedule is hospital-level.
I used to get fresh KK doughnuts at my Granddad's house in the late 60's. They were delivered to him by his old neighbor from Alexandria who was then the President of KK. Hot glazed KK were the bomb.
I grew up in Bristol and concur wholeheartedly on the Krispy Kreme.
I definitely agree with everyone who has mentioned Pal's! It's a Tri-Cities icon. And Ridgewood BBQ is definitely a must. Some other restaurants that are signature to the Tri-Cities are Cootie Brown's and Jack's City Grill. I love both of those places. AND GO TO BLACKBIRD BAKERY NEAR STATE STREET!!!! My favorite italian places are Valentino's near King University and Little Italy on State Street. Favorite mexican places are La Corona in Blountville and Casa Mexicana in Bristol (both really close to the track). But if you want to stick to chain restaurants, you will find all of those of exit 7. There's also Hokie Smokie in Johnson City. I've never actually been there, but I know a lot of people who have been and enjoy it. It's definitely a fitting restaurant for the game...
Like mentioned above, there's really not that much to do in Bristol apart from eating and shopping, but for those of you who are wanting to take a late Labor Day weekend vacation, here are some more attractions:
South Holston Lake is one of my favorite places in the world. I've only been to a couple Lakes outside the Tri-Cities area, but it's definitely the best one I've been to. It's simply beautiful and the water is pretty clean. There are plenty of places to camp there, and riding a boat out to cliff island to jump is a lot of fun. I don't know if the marinas will stay open past Labor Day, but Painter Creek Marina always is a good time at day and night!
State Street is an absolute must for anyone coming out of town. There's fun night life, good restaurants, unique shops, the iconic Bristol sign, the plates in the middle of the road that say Virginia on side and Tennessee on the other, the old train station, and the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. Yes, Bristol is the birthplace of that.
The Pinnacle at exit 74 and The Falls at exit 5 are new shopping developments. The Falls just has Cabela's for now, but supposedly new stores and a Calhouns (!!!!) and Smokey Mountain Brewery are on the way. The Pinnacle is really well developed. That's where you'll find Bass Pro, tons of stores, the Alumni Hall that is divided up by Virginia Tech and Tennessee gear, the new movie theater that has recliners as seats, and a few restaurants. Steve Johnson, who played for Virginia Tech in the 1980's, and for the Cowboys and the Patriots after that, developed all of The Pinnacle. The best mall in the area is the Mall at Johnson City.
The Barter Theater in Abingdon, VA has quite a bit of history and is really neat. If you're into that sort of thing I'd definitely check it out.
If you're bringing your kids, Hand's On Museum in Johnson City is really cool. I loved it when I was younger.
If there's any attraction in particular any of you are wondering about, just ask!
I was skimming down and was thinking Where in the wide world of sports is King University? .........Oh yeah, King College.
Nice work. You hit just about everything I can think of. I need to have the boat talk with the wife again.
Outside of food, this area is also rich in trout streams for those of you who like to get out on the water. There are several streams I could recommend that would be a good days fishing trip and there are a few I can recommend that would just be short outings. If anyone enjoys fly fishing, I would be happy to show you some high country creeks that have some really nice wild trout in them. Will be giving away no secrets though lol
White Top Laurel above Damascus is beautiful. The trout fishing was amazing when I was a kid. When stocking schedules started getting posted online around 1999 the fishing went down hill. Note, part of the stream is special regulation (single hook artificial.)
Oh for sure. There are still some simply beautiful streams around if you can manage to stay away from the crowds. Being able to wade up the creeks helps a lot.
Parks Mill BBQ is one of my personal favorites. More so a traditional pulled pork style, but the setting is great. They also offer RV camping, but it has to be limited because it isn't a big spread and its about 20 mins from BMS.
http://parksmillbbq.tripod.com
Wow, I haven't seen you, Smirkley, since the old ESPN ACCylum days.
Yeah, Those were the good ole days! I've been Smirk-a-lurkin around here for some time. I can't commit as much time to the forum like I used to, but its nice to be recognized!
O.G. REPRESENT!
Meh, you guys suck. Now I'm hungry and homesick.
I have been homesick for two weeks
There needs to be a ton of Hokies come into town for this game! I know we're going to be outnumbered by Tennessee fans, but still... I want to see more burnt orange than puke-inside-a-pumpkin-orange.
I was going to add onto Hokiegirl's comment from above about Hokie Smokie and Johnson City in general, but I figured I had enough info from living in JC for the past two years I could fill people in.....
Hokie Smokie is really good, I'd recommend the BB Cheezer (think a grilled cheese, but with BBQ and bacon, your heart will "thank" you later). Cootie Brown's and Jack's City Grill (GIANT QUESADILLAS) are owned by the same people, pretty good food. If you're looking for sushi in Johnson City (because that's where you go for seafood....the mountains), Label is very good, though they do other things than sushi as well. Pizza....probably Scratch is a neat little place, they're kind of what I'd describe as "hippy" joint, but you can do a "Trust" pizza, where they choose all of the toppings.
I'll be moving to Richmond in February (maybe), and I have a feeling I'm going to miss Johnson City.....but I will be back for the game, so there's that!
I second the recommendation for "Scratch." Folks can always do a "limited trust" pizza if they're weenies. Also, you can BYOB and they have a large selection of vinyl to play while waiting for your pizza.
But where can I find some pie!
Blackbird Bakery. You're welcome.
You forgot to tell everyone they are open 24 hours (except Sunday). Tennessee sweet sourdough bread is the best.
Hey french, you obviously know your stuff what's the nearest airport I could fly into. Those prices will essentially decide my availability. Girlfriend and friends think it would be a great chance for us to get together but if the trip is pushing a grand I don't think I could do it
The closest airport is Tri-Cities Regional. Only about 15/20 minutes from Bristol and the track.
Tri-Cities Airport. I used to fly in there from Central FL on Allegiant for $40 round trip. I'm not sure what other airlines come into there and from where, but there has to be some.
Tri-Cities Regional is the closest, Asheville's about an hour away, Charlotte is like 2.5-3 hours (I think)
Tri Cities. Everything connects through Charlotte except for Allegiant Air.
Pratts BBQ in Kingsport. Highly recommended! Being a local, Castlewood. We eat at Pratts often. Good food and service.
Do they still have the giant Indian with the loincloth that flies up in the slightest breeze? I always imagined him throwing down with the giant evil Pal's statue on Lynn Garden Drive for unquestioned supremacy of the Tri-Cities area.
Hahaha! Yes, the giant Indian is still there.
Is the giant Indian in front of Pratt's?
Yes it is!
VS
My grandmother lived right behind the Pal's in Lynn Garden....that guy holding that burger has been there a long time.
good lord, all the feels
Also, to everyone who has never been to the area, if you don't go to Pal's for breakfast and buy cheddar rounds while you're in town, you're doing everything wrong.
Cheese? Yuck!
All due respect, French, but when it comes to cheese, man, you just ain't right.
I know it's against the law in Bristol, but I don't care for cheddar rounds. Don't tell anyone I said this.
Doc tole me my ko-lester-y'all is too hi. Kin I still kum?
Just make it the last stop on your bucket list.
Doctors tell everybody their ko_lester_you'all is too high, if it isn't, you're not living.
Yeah, right? We older guys need to gang up on our doctors and tell 'em to butt out. I'd hate to go to my grave with cholesterol I still out there I coulda enjoyed.
If you're looking for something outdoorsy to do on Saturday or Sunday before the game, there are several places in Abingdon and Damascus that rent bikes and will shuttle you to the top of White Top to ride the Virginia Creeper Trail back down. Lots of good scenery along the way and because it's downhill almost the entirety of the trip, you can barely pedal and still be back (to Damascus) in a couple hours. (pedaling hard takes about an hour or less). There are also lots of Hiking trails around and I believe a couple of the places in the link also shuttle for and rent inner tubes and kayaks.
A little bit further away is Hungry Mother State Park in Marion. The have a lot of hiking/bicycle trails, a beach with a diving platform, boat rentals, and a fishing pier.
Off of Exit 14 in Abingdon is Heartwood, Southwest Virginia's Artisan Gateway. They have pretty good food (at least the times we've had work events there were good) and a lot of local crafts. It's the building that looks like someone built two or three metal barns, cut them into pieces, and then reassembled them in a way that makes absolutely no sense. If you're getting into town really early or staying really late, they have live music on Thursday nights.
Just across from Heartwood is a 9 hole disc golf course on the campus of Virginia Highlands Community College that is open to the public with no fee.
If you like old time country/bluegrass music the Carter Family Fold is about 45-50 minutes from Bristol. Not really my favorite music style, but I enjoyed the time that I went to a show with some of my family.
I was going to recommend Fun Expedition in Johnson City as an option, but it appears to have closed. (It had Pizza, Arcade Games, a Climbing Wall, Go Karts, Bumper Cars, Laser Tag, Batting Cages Putt-Putt Golf, and Mini-Bowling)
Have done the Creeper trail several times. The bikes and shuttle are affordable, the glide downcreek follows the trout stream all the way down, there are indeed several nice places to stop and hike or hang out by the water. There was a snack bar about half way down for burgers and dogs, and it is absolutely a pretty ride back to town. If you have the time, you can't go wrong with this one.
Any of those shuttle places let you 'BYOB'? We've got bikes but it would be nice to get a ride to the 'top' instead of having to do an 'out and back'.
It's been a few years since I did it, but I do believe the shuttles will shuttle you with your own bikes. It is just so cheap to rent their bikes that most folks just go with it. This is a "must do" if you have time. Most bike shuttles have good bikes and even "generous" seats for us older folks. Out and back is still ok, but the ride down covers so much ground and scenery that to me it is worth it. I have seen turkeys, deer and many trout finning the pools on the trip down. Do it.
Another option for those of you planning to bring kids is Just Jump in Johnson City, which is only about 20-25 minutes from BMS. It's an indoor trampoline park that includes an obstacle course, Kiddie Zone, dodge ball, basketball, large open jump area and gladiator pit. The facility is designed for all ages.
Getting mixed messages here.
Well I'd assume you wouldn't plan on going if you didn't have kids, but you may want to jump too if you take the kids :P
Love, love, love Pal's. I wish he would open one in Roanoke.
Great burgers, ham and cheese sandwiches, frenchie fries and tea. Their breakfast beats all fast food options too.
I'm bumping this thread because it's getting closer to the game, and because Discover Bristol has made an event on State Street on 9/8 and 9/9 called "Battle on the State Line Kickoff and Pep Rally" which seems like it should be a good time.
You can keep updated with the event on Facebook.
Nice!
GO TO PALS too!
They have an dreamsicle shake now. It is liquid crack.
turkey leg for Hokiegirl!! because I haven't seen her post in a long time and we need more female Hokies on the boards. Speaking of which, anyone seen "Amber not Amber" AMB4VT lately? haven't seen her post in a long time either.
Don't stop contributing Hokiegirl, always liked your comments.
Appreciate that a ton, thanks! This people on this site have always been so welcoming to me and that's rare when it comes to girls giving their thoughts on football! I've been busy with graduating college and starting my job, but I'm always lurking!
Anyone know what the ease of finding an Uber is in Bristol? We failed to get a parking pass and just curious what it would be like with that option. Also, I know for NASCAR races, locals will rent out their yards near the track for parking as well. How easy/convenient might that be to find? Want to explore alternatives before dropping a bunch of money on a pass from stubhub or another secondary marketplace.
Uber won' the an option. There are tons of places to park for $25 or so. There are several churches right next to the Bristol owned lots that are only another 400 yard walk away or so. Believe me, you won't have an issue parking around the track. You might be a mile away, but unlike the Nascar races, you won't have to lug a cooler both ways.
Won't "have to", buuuuuut....
Thanks for the info!!!
How early would we need to start looking to make sure we get in one of these lots, or is it really that easy? We'll be coming from speedway inn about 4 miles from the track.
I'm sure some won' t be full until 6:30 that night or so. Not everyone is going to tailgate all day. They are doing it wrong, but it's their choice. During the Aug race, with a 7:30 green flag, cars are rolling in at 630-700.
There's a huge lot on the back of 394 that's free (usually is for the races) that's a decent place. The best hing to do, if you can, is if you have a friend in the area, park in the grass on 394 in the direction you'll be leaving early that morning. That way you can have a friend drop you off at the front. And just go to your car after the game or if you want to leave a little early during the blowout you can get a head start on traffic headed back north.
Do UT fans leave early? Hokie fans are pretty die hard and stick to the clock reads 0:00
And any of the lots that are BMS owned typically hold traffic for an hour after the race is over so everyone has a chance to walk to their cars. Not sure if they will do this for the game, but don't expect to get a jump if you are in a BMS lot. When you see 160k people leaving, you'll understand. Even an hour after the race there are thousands milling around in the road.
sometimes even when the scoreboard reads the same...
It honestly depends, in Knoxville it happens sometimes, mainly because traffic is a complete cluster f@*k. Construction on literally every corner and traffic patters that sometimes change twice per year lead to that. I have zero clue how this game will go as far as that. Im guessing most will stay just to soak up the one time chance to see a game like this. We're at a crossroads fan base wise. There is a group of old blue hair donors that would rather be anywhere but a football game, but for some reason still go, and a group of "younger" (45 and younger) that are the diehards and will stick it out to the end regardless.
keep it up MoD. Gives me fond memories of OSU being 11 point favorites at home...
I'm not sure where to find more information, but I do know that BMS is running shuttles from Sugar Hollow Park on the VA side to and from the track all day!
I get lazy sometimes in BB and will Uber from Lot 18 to Lane. It's the way to go haha.
Posted this in another thread, here it is again:
http://battleinourbackyard.com/
Events and offers for the Bristol weekend.
bumping this for late planners
Leaving Blacksburg at 9 in a charter bus full of students, and planning on heading straight back to blacksburg after the game's end.
any traffic experts know if we will be running into trouble? We are parking at finish line parking which is one of the earlier exits.
http://www.roanoke.com/news/virginia/bms-police-gearing-up-for-security-...
If you're looking to park on the Virginia side and ride the shuttle, Sugar Hollow park is between exits 10 and 7 off of I-81, on Lee Highway across from Target. I'd say it's about a 25 minute drive from there to BMS.
I'm getting more and more excited for the game! I'm already planning the food and drink menu for the tailgate. I'm glad Earhart West is a Hokie lot! If any of you guys have any questions about the Tri-Cities area, feel free to ask. I've lived in Bristol my entire life.
and it is a very short drive from the Exit 7 Pals
I bought 2 tickets for the battle at bristol game when I renewed my student season tickets this spring. I was wondering if anyone knew whether that extra ticket could be used by a non student. Also does anyone remember when they were gonna be ready for pick up at the ticket office. (It's been a long ass time since I bought them and read all this stuff)
Based off what I know, the Bristol tickets are generic. They are not designated student, or otherwise, but do have a colored title according to where the seat is. Mine are green at the top with "grandstand" on them.
So yes, a non-student can use the ticket, as long as it is in possession. No printable or emailed tickets for this.
Thanks for the info.
Bring your binoculars.
All I know is I have a handicap pass from BMS specifically designed around my seating area so that should minimize walking required and basically I have a reserved parking area.
As wonderful as all these suggestions sound, with 150,000 people trying to eat, I'm assuming the only way to actually get served is to eat at one of the restaurants near our hotel in Princeton, West Virginia before leaving for the game. If we take enough candy bars, we may be able to wait out the traffic jam after the game without starving to death on the way back. I'm just saying .....
P.S. - However, will keep all the suggestions in mind when visiting area during non-game conditions.
There have been multiple comments on this thread about State Street, but I'm getting excited about having so many visitors to our little town in just about another 25 days, so I decided I would compile a post with pretty much all you need to know about the street that borders two states. I posted about the events that Discover Bristol is having on State Street in a post above, but in case you didn't see, go here. They'll be closing State Street off to traffic on 9/8 and 9/9 and there'll be live music, events highlighting the Bristol sign, a brewfest featuring 40+ breweries (info here), bands from both schools, corn hole tournaments, and chances to meet and get autographs from former players. As a local, I've got to see State Street really grow in the last couple of years, and it's been exciting to watch. While I enjoy spending time shopping at the new Pinnacle shopping center or grabbing dinner with my friends at the mecha known as Exit 7, State Street is truly is my favorite place to go in Bristol. The atmosphere will be great during game week, especially since VT flags will be on the Virginia side of the street, and UT flags on the other. It will truly be something to see. Apart from the events that Discover Bristol is putting on, here are some tips as to what all downtown Bristol and State Street has to offer:
You can pretty much do anything on State Street. There are multiple restaurants, small businesses, attractions, and historical sites. First, we'll start with food. There are a lot of great restaurants, and a lot of them have great night life. First, we have Macado's, which isn't foreign to many of you. We have 620 State, which has great sushi and stir fry-esque food. It's really good and they often have great music. It's kind of expensive but it's worth it if you're in the mood for it, though I'd probably avoid that restaurant as UT is claiming it as their restaurant for the week. VT's restaurant is Quaker Steak and Lube. It's a chain, so many of you have probably ate there before. They have good food and a great atmosphere for fun. They often have bands playing on their outside patio and it's always a good time there at night. I'm looking forward to spending time there the week prior to the game. Then there's Burger Bar, which opened in 1942, and is iconic. If you're in the mood for just a sandwich (or all flavors of bagels), you can find one at KP Duty or Manna Bagel. If you want chinese, Shang Hai is the place for you. If you're willing to walk, Cootie Browns is a just a couple blocks from State Street and it's really good as well! If you want some home cooked, country comfort food, try Eatz! The owner is a really nice guy, and the food is really good. In the mood for pizza? Try Machiavelli's or Little Italy. If you're out late and want good atmosphere and food and drinks, try State Line Bar and Grill!
After all that, looking for dessert? GO TO BLACKBIRD BAKERY! It deserves all of the capital letters and its own paragraph. There you can find cakes, pies, doughnuts, ice cream, and any other treat you can imagine. You're welcome in advance. They have many places to enjoy your treats inside and outside and it's a really good place to chill. And the best part? They're open 24/7.
While there will be a Brewfest on the streets on 9/8, if you're looking for bars, you can go to Quaker Steak, 620 State, State Line Bar and Grill, Macado's, and O'Mainnins Pub. There's also Studio Brew and Bristol Brewery.
AllMost of these places have great atmospheres and should be a lot of fun with fans from both teams in town.Okay, but what about attractions? There are plenty. Bristol recently just opened an Escape Room on State Street. It would be a good thing for families to do, as it involves group problem solving. There's the Birthplace of Country Music museum, which is an affiliate of the Smithsonian. There's the Paramount Theatre. I'm not sure what the Paramount will have going on during this week, but it's something to keep in mind. There's Kil'n Time, which is a ceramic/pottery studio. There is also a veterans war memorial in Cumberland Square Park.
And shopping? There is tons of shopping. I doubt most of you are interested, but it's still good to know, regardless. There are multiple men and women's clothing and shoe stores that are one-of-a-kind and that I truly adore. There are tons of antique shops. There's Cranberry Lane that sells home decor and is really unique. There's Phyl's of Bristol where you'll be able to pick up Virginia Tech gear if needed. I'm assuming that most of these stores will be having extended hours throughout the week along with events, so be sure to check them out and give them business. I know many of the shop owners personally, and they're great people. 160,000+ people coming to town is a great opportunity for them.
Most of all, just enjoy your time in Bristol. Visit The Pinnacle. Visit South Holston Lake and take in the beautiful scenery. Visit Steele's Creek and Sugar Hollow parks. Go to Pal's. Make sure that that all of Tennessee fans know we're there, too. Enjoy guys!
On a semi-related note.. Bristol motor speedway is live streaming the transformation.
http://www.bristolmotorspeedway.com/fans/news-archive/pilot-flying-battl...
True Story.
when are they building the big-screen over the field? will you be able to see that on the video?because there is something large casting a shadow over the center of the track/field but it's not in view of the camera. It seems to be up above the track but out of the picture..I can't figure out what it might be. You can really tell if you rewind and fast forward through the day as the time goes by the shadow moves across the field from left to right.i'm a dummy
It's there. The large thing blocking the far stands is the big screen. Check the live fee.
OMG I'm a dope...definitely didn't see that at all...I guess since it doesn't block the track or the sky I just blended it into the stands mentally...I feel dumb now. Thank you for pointing that out. Have a leg :)
edit: also...much easier to see on a computer
looks like its done already
yeah, yeah, rub it in. I'm an idiot
I'll chime in here and congratulate you on your 3 year anniversary on TKP. Have a leg, from one idiot to another.
I've never been to Bristol before for a race, so I'm just revisiting the Uber topic that was touched on above. Only one person responded and said it "Uber won't be an option", so I'm looking for some clarification.
I'm not driving to the racetrack. Not with the amount of alcohol we are going to drink.
So that leaves us with:
1. Are cabs typically available on race day?
2. Is there an influx of Uber drivers on race day? Or does it take hours to connect with one?
1. Typically cabs are barely available, if at all, in Bristol to be honest.
2. Uber literally did not support/exist in Bristol until last month. Here's an article about it. I have no idea what to expect as far as availability/surge pricing based on it just starting but I would suspect it's going to be pretty brutal.
For a race, most people get to the track well before it starts. That involves parking and walking to a tailgate spot like a campground or parking at a house/lot nearby and tailgating for the day. The other option is to have someone sober and not attending to take you close and drop you off. You'll probably want to find a shuttle or something ahead of time because I wouldn't count on cabs/uber.
Thanks a lot. Can cars stay in the lots/houses nearby the track overnight after the race/game? I'm thinking we can swing by the next day to grab it?
Also, do you know the average price for parking in a lot/house nearby the track?
It's been awhile since I've been to a Bristol race and the races haven't sold out in recent years either so I am not sure about those answers. I will say typically the exodus from the track after a race takes a while. Since there are so many campers, people are out in the lots and tailgating after and traffic can be very slow leaving the area.
Bring $40 for parking. You won't need it all, but it will range from $15-30 depending on how close you are to the track.
And just talk to the home/property owner and see if they will let you leave it overnight. Odds are, if they know what you're planning to do, they won't mind since you're making the safe decision, and they are going to be thousands of dollars richer come Sunday morning.
Yup, and they've already gotten their standard 2 races this year. This event is just icing on the cake for them.
There are going to be a lot of additions on churches in the near future down there.
Yeah.. probably don;t want to drive.
It's 2016. Thought we were supposed to have jetpacks by now.
http://www.heraldcourier.com/news/officials-plan-to-arrive-early-stay-la...
Anyone know if there will be any food for sale anywhere around the stadium on gameday? Wondering if I have to plan for food and drink or just drink as it's going to be a long day.
You can stop by our tailgate in Earhart East. It's just me and a friend but we ALWAYS overpack the food/beer. This goes for all TKPers. We should coordinate this amongst us all, if we aren't already.
At the minimum there will be concessions outside
As others have said, concessions will be available if for some reason tailgates don't fill you up.
Pilot Flying J group sent me an email earlier this evening. There will be picnic tables, shaded seating, "luxury" portable bathrooms (with constant maintenance staff), cell phone charging stations, free wifi, and some pizza place promotion in the fan zone outside of BMS. Also, there are free samples of pizza and coupons for a single free slice.
Side note, beverage distributor has trucked in somewhere around 455k 16 oz cans of beer. Not sure thats enough!
If you're in Bristol already, don't forget about the events happening on State Street tonight! Brew Fest, lighting of the Bristol sign, concerts, etc. Also don't forget that Quaker Steak is the Hokie's restaurant!
Quick note to everyone going: you have some work to do.
All I see here are pallets of water.