The Best Family-Friendly Things to Do in Johnson City, TN
Johnson City, Tennessee, offers families the perfect balance: a tight-knit community atmosphere with effortless access to big-city amenities. This ideal fusion means there’s a wealth of family-friendly things to do in Johnson City. Danielle Puckett, a local mom of two young boys, offers an inside look at the area’s top hangouts.
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Play at Willow Springs Park
One of Puckett’s go-to spots for her kids to burn off some energy is Willow Springs Park. The park spans 36 acres and features a pond, a walking trail and a playground with a train and village theme.
“Having access to good parks is super important to us because our boys love to run, play and just be wild little explorers,” Puckett says.
Visit Hands On! Discovery Center
For some educational fun, visit Hands On! Discovery Center and Gray Fossil Site, a museum that offers something for every age.
“Just like the name says, the exhibits are super interactive, and honestly, the staff there are incredible,” Puckett says.
Kids can also get an up-close look at the Gray Fossil site: a real, active Pliocene-era fossil dig site where they see paleontologists at work unearthing new finds.
Hop Aboard the Railroad Experience
The Johnson City Railroad Experience offers a captivating journey through East Tennessee’s industrial heritage. Located in downtown Johnson City, this museum highlights the pivotal role of rail in the city’s growth, honoring pioneers like Henry Johnson and George L. Carter.
Visitors can marvel at an expansive 1/160 scale replica of the Tri-Cities area and enjoy interactive displays designed for all ages. Whether attending “Little Engineer” lessons or exploring historical exhibits, the museum serves as a vibrant community hub celebrating Appalachian innovation.
Go Gaming at Tiebreakers
Take your kids to Tiebreakers, and they may never want to leave. Tiebreakers boasts the city’s only Hyperbowling experience, and it is a must-do. Laser tag, arcade games, virtual reality and pizza round out this entertainment center’s offerings, and it’s easy to spend a whole afternoon here.
Cheer on the Doughboys
In the summer, you can catch the Puckett family cheering on the local Doughboys. A collegiate summer baseball team in the Appalachian League, the Doughboys play their home games at the TVA Credit Union Ballpark.
Families flock here to catch a game, enjoy the kids’ zone and savor classic ballpark fare. Throughout the season, the ballpark hosts fun themed nights for kids as well as fireworks shows on some weekend game nights.
Tuesdays at the Scoop Ice Cream Parlor
There is nothing better than free ice cream. After checking come family-friendly activities off your list, ead to The Scoop in nearby Gray on Tuesdays and get two scoops in a cone or cup for the price of one.
“Two Scoop Tuesday at The Scoop Ice Cream Parlor is a must for our crew. Because let’s be honest – ice cream is a love language,” Puckett says.
Plus, on Family Fridays, if you purchase a menu item for $4.50 or more, you get a free kids scoop.
Check Out Downtown Parks
The Puckett family loves spending sunny days at Founders Park and King Commons. These downtown spots feature public art, play areas and a walking path. During the summer, everyone enjoys cooling off in the creek or attending Fridays After 5 at the amphitheater. Since both parks are centrally located, it is a quick stroll to several great restaurants for a fun family meal after all that activity.
Tee Off at Paradise Acres
Paradise Acres truly has something for everyone. Challenge the family on one of its two 18-hole mini-golf courses, then pump up the adrenaline in the unique Barn Loft Laser Tag arena. As the seasons change, enjoy classic fall family fun with hayrides, a pumpkin patch and the one-of-a-kind Hayground play area. Aspiring geologists can try their luck at the park’s impressive mining station, panning for gems and fossils galore.
Get to Know Johnson City, TN
Want to learn more about living and working in Johnson City, TN? Check out the latest edition of Livability Johnson City, Jonesborough-Washington County, TN.