In the foothills of the wild Appalachian mountains discover friendly communities with quaint storefronts dotted along tree-lined streets, and mom and pop restaurants who’ve been in business long enough to know how to make a real good meal. Unicoi County and the surrounding region provide the perfect blend of retail therapy and memorable dining experiences. Discover the hidden gems and special spots that make Unicoi County and the surrounding region an indulgent destination.
Johnson City 15 Min.
Local Shops
Asheville
45 Min.
Local Dining
Small towns hold the best secrets, and this is no exception when it comes to our favorite spots. Vintage gems, outdoor essentials, gourmet food and drinks—it’s all in the heart of Unicoi County, Tennessee.
Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike can visit Erwin Outdoor Supply to gear up for a hike on the Appalachian Trail or a day on the Nolichucky River. And a quick drive will take you to neighboring communities like Johnson City, that offer a mix of local and name-brand shopping just 15 minutes from Unicoi County. Upscale boutiques such as Monkee’s offer on-trend styles, while other local retailers like Boomtown and Mahoney’s provide fun, memorable wares and outdoor-based options. Looking for something with a story? Discover vintage pieces and other unique heirlooms at antique stores, including West Main Antiques. And if you’re looking to make an entire day of your shopping excursion, why not make the scenic drive to Asheville, where you’ll discover a myriad of unique shopping and dining options. The shopping possibilities are endless when it comes to Unicoi County and the surrounding region.
Feeling hungry? Luckily, there’s plenty of dining options to choose from. Enjoy Clarence’s Drive-In, where you’ll find downhome dishes ranging from tender pulled pork to cozy breakfast classics. Those looking for street-style bites will enjoy Noli Food Truck, which provides a fun atmosphere and flavorful food. DariAce’s old-fashioned diner will take you back in time with American classics like creamy milkshakes and juicy burgers. And if you’re looking for a nightcap, a craft beer from Union Street Taproom should do the trick.
Whether you’re craving contemporary dishes or classic Southern cooking, these mom and pop treasures give you the same warmth as if you’re right at home. And if you’re looking for more worldly cuisine, take a short drive up the road to Johnson City where you’ll find a variety of regional and ethnic flavors from local restaurants the community loves.
From its country cookin’ heritage, there is more than a mouthful to say about dining options in Unicoi County. With food trucks and great local restuarants, we have you covered.
Up for a short, 45-minute road trip? Vibrant Asheville, North Carolina offers a unique mix of boutiques, eclectic shops and colorful gallery tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Our festivals wouldn’t be complete without our vendors. Which is why you’re sure to find something that piques your shopping interest, from arts and crafts to local goods.
Farmers markets, produce stands, and farm-to-table galore. Unicoi County is proud to provide fresh, local flavor while supporting small businesses in the process.
Whether you need a warm coffee or a fluffy bed of pancakes, here you’ll find just a few of the many local breakfast spots that are sure to satisfy your hunger.
While our region provides quality shopping and dining, that’s not the only thing that makes it stand out. Discover why more and more folks are calling Unicoi County home.
