Here’s Why Bristol, TN, is a Great Place to Live!
Is Bristol, TN, a great place to live? Absolutely! It’s not just a welcoming town with a lot of outdoor activities, amazing food and live music. It’s also home to The Reserve at Leonard Farms, a community designed specifically for those who love intentional, beautiful living in the heartland of the American South.
Bristol, Tennessee, offers a good quality of life, low-cost living and moderately priced real estate. And as one of the best private communities in the state, The Reserve offers a variety of amenities to help you feel right at home.
If you’re looking for land for sale in Bristol, Tennessee, in a gated community, The Reserve at Leonard Farms might just be the perfect place to call home. View our available lots now or read on to learn more about this desirable area and all the reasons you’re going to love living in Bristol!
Bristol is located right next to the Tennessee-Virginia line, and is the sister city to Bristol, VA – though the two are technically one continuous town. If you look at a map of Bristol, TN, this becomes easy to visualize.
Bristol, TN, elevation is 1,676 feet, making for lovely variation in weather and clean, clear, crisp air. The ease of access to Bristol is another aspect that makes it desirable. The city is located along several major highways, including U.S. Route 19 and U.S. Route 421, that make it easy to get around.
Because the Bristol, TN, population is only around 28,000, it has large-city amenities with a small-town feel.
Besides being directly between Tennessee and Virginia (the state line runs right through downtown), Bristol has many other interesting qualities! It’s a place with a lot of culture, for one thing, ranging from music and barbecue to a serious art scene.
In 1998, Bristol was named the Birthplace of Country Music for the 1927 Bristol Sessions that took place downtown and created the “Big Bang” of modern country music.
It’s also home to Bristol Motor Speedway, which hosts NASCAR’s Sprint Cup events every April and August.
- Economy: The cost of living in Bristol is quite affordable. It is lower than the U.S. average by quite a bit, and low even compared to the rest of Tennessee. Over the years, Bristol’s job market has seen increases. Moreover, Bristol’s unemployment rate is lower than the national average of 6%, sitting at 3.4% (Nov. 2022). According to a July 2022 article in Livability, Bristol is ready for growth. “Bristol is ready. If you are looking for a business site, we’re ready at the business park,” says economic development team member Jon Luttrell. “If you work remotely, we’re ready. Need a place to just get away? We’re ready for that, too.”
- Weather and Climate: Bristol is a temperate place. Its winters don’t get bitterly cold, though it does get some snow. Similarly, although summers are sunny and humid, they’re usually not unpleasantly hot. Spring and fall are an unparalleled delight!
- Healthcare: In addition to boasting Bristol Regional Medical Center, a nationally renowned hospital, residents have access to a wealth of smaller hospitals, clinics and urgent care facilities. It’s perfect for families of young children and the elderly alike.
- Safety: The Bristol, TN, crime rate is around average. Due to some property theft and violent crime, some residents of this area may prefer to live in a gated community with guaranteed security, such as The Reserve at Leonard Farms.
- The Outdoors: Bristol is located near many lovely state parks, including Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park, David Crockett Birthplace State Park (complete with wood cabin), and Roan Mountain State Park, among others.
- Time in Bristol, TN: There are two different time zones in Tennessee, which is split into the Central and Eastern Time Zones. While the majority of Tennessee is on Central Time, the time zone in Bristol, TN, is Eastern, along with much of Appalachia.
We understand how important it is to be able to contact your loved ones, which is why we’ve provided a list of internet, phone and cable services to keep you connected!
- Bristol Tennessee Essential Services is proud to offer up to 10 gigabit internet to your new home, as well as phone and cable capabilities. Their mission is to provide clients, employees and community with services that exceed expectations and are beneficial to all concerned.
- CenturyLink also provides internet, home phone and cable TV services, allowing you to create custom packages with only what you want. Their plans offer 24/7 technical support, and no contracts or data caps.
- Viasat has the services listed above, but also has Viasat Shield, which protects your internet from common security threats, and offers an Affordable Connectivity Program for those who qualify.
- Spectrum is available in 100% of the Bristol area! They offer residential packages with TV, home and mobile phone services, and internet.
- Xfinity offers home security systems in addition to internet, TV and streaming, mobile and home phone packages. You can create your own packages with the services you need.
Please let us know if you require any assistance setting up your services once you’ve moved in.
With downtown being split by the Tennessee/Virginia state line, it’s no surprise Bristol is easily accessible to many areas of the Southeast! Only 15 minutes from the Tri-Cities Regional Airport, Delta, American Airlines and Allegiant offer direct flights to Charlotte, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Dallas, Texas; and St. Pete- Clearwater, Orlando, and Sanford, Florida.
If you’d like to keep it close to home, there are also great attractions right around the corner! Here’s a list of 16 Places You Won’t Want To Miss Within 16 Miles of Bristol! Some stand-outs locations include:
- The Appalachian Caverns: Home to the largest show cave in Northeast Tennessee, they offer both walking and wild adventure tours.
- The Bristol Sign: In 1910, the Bristol Gas and Electric Company wanted to do something for the city, so they donated an electric sign that has approximately 1,330 bulbs.
- Barter Theatre: This theatre started in 1933 with one man’s idea to pay your way with produce instead of money.
Bristol, Tennessee, has a great selection of public and private schools nearby! Bristol Tennessee City Schools have schools ranging from elementary to high school. Students are also able to attend Tennessee Online Public School.
The Bristol, Tennessee, school system offers a free early childhood program to children living in the Bristol, Tennessee, city limits. Children must be 4 years of age on or before August 15 to enroll in the current school year.
Elementary
- Anderson Elementary School: Located in Bristol, this elementary school has been awarded a Gold Level designation by the Tennessee Tiered Support Center.
- Avoca Elementary School: Also located in Bristol, their mission is to “Bring out the best in each other – socially, emotionally and academically.”
- Fairmount Elementary School: Now an elementary school, this Bristol location once served as a campground for Native Americans traveling to the salt wells in current-day Saltville, Virginia.
- Haynesfield Elementary School: This Bristol-based elementary school strives to provide students with the best education, enabling them to lead fulfilling and productive lives in a diverse society.
- Holston View Elementary School: This Bristol elementary school was designed to promote teacher collaboration that is enriched by an open classroom environment.
Tennessee Middle School: The Bristol elementary schools listed above combine at Tennessee Middle School in the same town for grades 6-8.
Tennessee High School: Also located in Bristol, Tennessee High School enrolls students in grades 9-12.
Private Schools
- Tri-Cities Christian Academy: Located in Blountville, Tennessee, Tri-Cities offers pre-K to high school classes with college and career counseling options for older students.
- Tennessee Avenue Christian Academy: This private, Christ-centered K-12 college preparatory school is centrally located in Bristol, Tennessee. The community is committed to achieving excellence in academics and spiritual growth.
From specialty restaurants, to locally owned shops, there’s so much to see and do in Bristol, Tennessee! Here’s a list of some of our favorite places.
Restaurants
- Eatz on Moore Street: As the name suggests, this Moore Street eatery is located in the center of Bristol’s Historic Arts District and serves a variety of Southern comfort foods.
- Blackbird Bakery: Known as Bristol’s Old-Fashion Bakery, it boasts all kinds of tasty treats, from breakfast pastries to pies.
- Mad Greek Restaurant: Although there are now locations in Johnson City and Kingsport, Tennessee, the original location was right here in Bristol. Founded by Greek Cypriots, Georgia and Achilleas Georgiou, the full-service eatery is a local favorite for Greek and Italian foods, as well as legendary, homemade desserts.
- The Angry Italian in Downtown Bristol has a Chicago-inspired menu. The owner and chef says that his goal is to make you feel welcome in a place where you can meet old friends for lunch and dinner, and make new ones. That philosophy sounds pretty Tennessean to us!
- 620 State: This casual bar and eatery offers Asian fusion and American bites, as well as fresh sushi rolls.
- Bristol BBQ: Offering fast food cooked nice and slow, you’ll find your classic BBQ mains and sides!
- Greene’s Seafood: Founded over 40 years ago with 6 quarts of oysters, Greene’s Seafood has been providing Bristol and the surrounding area with seafood for decades. You can eat in the restaurant, order takeout, or purchase fresh fish to cook at home.
- The Southern Churn: This ice cream and candy shoppe offers 26 flavors of Ashby’s ice cream, candy and homemade fudge!
Shops
- The Pinnacle Bristol: With dozens of shopping, dining and entertainment options in an open-air environment, The pinnacle has everything you need, conveniently located in Bristol.
- Cranberry Lane: Furnish your new home with treasures found at Cranberry Lane!
- Serendipity Boutique & Marketplace: Where style is always in season! They sell a variety of women’s clothes and accessories.
- King Clothiers: Since opening in 1981, Wm. King Clothiers has a reputation for being one of the finest stores in the South. The selection of men’s clothes has both a classic and timeless style.
- Willow Creek Antiques & Collectibles: With over 14,000 square feet of antiques and collectibles, you’re bound to find something you love right in Downtown Bristol!
- Pen’s Floral: As a leading florist in Bristol, Pen’s Floral offers high-quality floral arrangements that are perfect for any occasion.
As the “Birthplace of Country Music,” it’s no surprise that Bristol, Tennessee, has some of the greatest music and art facilities around! Explore local art galleries, festivals, concerts, and Bristol cultural events.
- Birthplace of Country Music Museum: As an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, this award-winning museum in Historic Downtown Bristol is a must-see for every country music enthusiast.
- Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion Music Festival: Established in 2001, this annual three-day music festival takes place in early September to celebrate Bristol’s music heritage as the birthplace of country music.
- PUSH! Film Festival: Originating in 2019, this film festival showcases features shot in Tennessee or Virginia, or by people residing in either state.
- CDR Frame & Art Gallery: In addition to providing custom matting and framing, they also feature an art gallery with handmade gifts, original paintings, pottery and jewelry from 50 local artists. From classic wares to pop culture, Bristol has you covered.
- Benjamin Walls Gallery: Internationally acclaimed artist Benjamin Walls shares his photographs at his Bristol gallery.
- Paramount Center for the Arts: Come see a huge variety of live shows, from the classic band Everclear to a production of Cinderella to the horror podcast “Old Gods of Appalachia.” This is a one-stop shop for art and culture in Bristol!
- Bristol Ballet: Come see a show or send a little one to classes at the Bristol Ballet, providing high-quality performances and art education for 70 years now.
The Reserve is minutes away from private or public golf courses! There are six courses right in Bristol, with an additional eight within 20 miles.
- The Golf Club of Bristol: The oldest course in Bristol was designed by Alex McKay/(R) Mark McCumber, ASGCA, in 1894. This public course features 6,474 yards of golf.
- The Virginian Golf Club: As the name suggests, this course is located in Bristol, Virginia. Clocking in at 7,110 yards of golf, this private course is the longest in the city.
- The Olde Farm Course: This private course offers 6,885 yards of golf and is also the highest rated in the area.
- Steele Creek Golf Course: The only 9-hole course in town, this municipal course features 2,779 yards of golf.
- Bristol Golf Club, LLC: Not to be confused with The Golf Club of Bristol, this public course offers 5,886 yards of golf.
- Clear Creek Golf Course: This municipal golf course features 6,516 yards of Bermuda grass golf.
If you’re planning on moving, consider one of the best gated communities in Tennessee! If you’ve never lived in a gated community before, here are some of the benefits you can expect:
- Safety, Especially for Children. With fixed entrance and exit points with extra security measures, only verified people and their guests will be able to enter the community. The 24/7 surveillance cameras, electric fences and intercom systems all assist the security teams in protecting residents. Since there are no open roads or strangers, children can safely play in their yards and at our playground and pool (with adult supervision, of course!).
- Sense of Community: Gated communities tend to foster an unspoken understanding between residents. Events held at our clubhouse or pool are great for getting to know your neighbors!
- Amenities: We offer a variety of amenities at The Reserve at Leonard Farms! Our clubhouse provides the perfect place to hold events. The pool and playground provide great opportunities to get to know other families in the community. And if you’ve got a dog or a green thumb, you’ll love our garden and dog park.
Social clubs are a great way to meet the rest of the community! From bookworms to adventure seekers, there’s a club for just about everyone!
- Tri-Cities Movies & More: Primarily a group for seeing movies in theaters, there are sometimes other events as well. Members must be over 18 to join, and most showings are weekend matinees or early evening
- Tri-Cities Book Club: This book club reads one book a month and is open to everyone!
- Craft Beer Lovers of the Tri-Cities Tennessee Meetup: Socialize and have a great time over local and regional craft beers!
- Family, Civic and Community: The Bristol Chamber of Commerce is a great resource for organizations and community involvement.
- The Slater Community Center: The community center is a great place to be social with senior programs, exercise room, billiards room, auditorium and offices. A cafeteria serves as a gathering place for seniors and is available for rental. The gym is used for pick-up basketball games, dances and youth basketball.
Whether you want access to a personal trainer or just want to hit the gym, there are a variety of fitness centers in the Bristol area.
- The Club: The Club has a world-class gym in Bristol. They have been in the area since 1981 and are driven to provide the best workout experience Address: 6045 Old Jonesboro Rd, Bristol, TN 37620
Phone: (423) 545-4769 - YMCA of Bristol: From group exercises to youth sports, the YMCA offers fitness solutions suitable for the whole Address: 400 M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Bristol, TN 37620
Phone: (423) 968-3133 - Workout Anytime Bristol: In addition to 24-hour access for all members, you can also receive monthly fitness evaluations, hydro-massage therapy system, Matrixstrength training equipment and much more! Address: 1315 Euclid Ave Ste D, Bristol, VA 24201
Phone: (276) 285-3867
Bristol offers rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic landscapes to both residents and visitors alike. If you’ve just moved here, are considering a move, or just want to visit, there are a few can’t-miss Bristol, TN, attractions to put on your list.
- Bristol Caverns: For an amazing underground adventure, try this day trip to the best Bristol, TN, caverns. It offers stunning cavern formations, fascinating geological history of the region on guided tours, and unique photographs of rock formations. Make sure to show off those Bristol Caverns photos to your friends! (Wondering “How much does it cost to get into Bristol Caverns?” You’ll find everything you need to know on their site.)
- Steele Creek Park: For an array of nature activities – think hiking, birdwatching, biking, paddle boating, and fishing on the lake – come visit the charming arboreal escape at Steele Creek Park, Bristol. Have a relaxing family picnic while the kids explore the playgrounds, then stretch your legs in Mother Nature. (Find a Steele Creep Park map at the link.)
- South Holston Lake: This is a popular spot for outdoor recreation, and it’s easy to see why. With fishing, boating, kayaking and the lake’s serene shores, you can feel completely at home in nature. This gorgeous area is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, hiking trails and picnic spots for a memorable family outing. Check out the South Holston Lake campgrounds for an overnight adventure.
Don’t hesitate to explore the city’s unique offerings and create memorable experiences right here in our beloved Bristol!
Wondering how long it takes to get around? Here are the distances to other major cities in the area:
- Kingsport: 23 miles
- Greeneville: 56 miles
- Knoxville: 113 miles
- Chattanooga: 224 miles
- Nashville: 292 miles
- Louisville, KY: 302 miles
- Cincinnati, OH: 307 miles
- Atlanta, GA: 325 miles
- Washington DC: 376 miles
- Memphis: 502 miles
Ready to Start Living Your Best Life in Bristol, TN?
Do you have questions about life in Bristol? Would you like to set up a tour? Just want to see what we’re all about here at The Reserve at Leonard Farms? Please reach out to our friendly staff with any additional questions about the lots we have for sale. You may also learn more about living in Tennessee, food, music & culture, and more real estate news & tips from our blog section.
We can’t wait to welcome you to our community!
Address