Day Trips from Bristol
← All Bristol day tripsDay Trips from Bristol: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Bristol, TN. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Bristol
Graybeard Mountain View Overlook
Barnardsville, NC 28709
Just 2 hrs 4 min from Bristol, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Powell Valley Overlook
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219
Just 1 hr 13 min from Bristol, rated 4.9 stars by 782 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
State Line Lookout
Haysi, VA 24256
Just 1 hr 59 min from Bristol, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Yadkin Valley Overlook
Blowing Rock, NC 28605
Just 1 hr 44 min from Bristol, rated 4.9 stars by 214 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Grandview Overlook
Boone, NC 28607
Just 1 hr 40 min from Bristol, rated 4.9 stars by 294 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Mill Rock Point Overlook
Haysi, VA 24256
Just 1 hr 52 min from Bristol, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Wiseman's View Scenic Overlook
NC 28752, USA
Just 1 hr 43 min from Bristol, rated 4.9 stars by 1,411 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic overlook
Whitesburg, KY 41858
Just 1 hr 57 min from Bristol, rated 4.9 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Buzzard's Roost Overlook
Clyde, NC 28721
Just 2 hrs 31 min from Bristol, rated 4.8 stars by 157 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic Overlook
Flag Pond, TN 37650
Just 1 hr 8 min from Bristol, rated 4.8 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Graybeard Mountain View
Barnardsville, NC 28709
Just 2 hrs 7 min from Bristol, rated 4.8 stars by 144 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Blue Ridge Parkway Scenic Point
Deep Gap, NC 28618
Just 1 hr 44 min from Bristol, rated 4.8 stars by 130 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Bristol
What are the best scenic drives near Bristol, TN?
The best scenic drives near Bristol include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Bristol?
Most scenic drives near Bristol range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Bristol?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Bristol, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Bristol?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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