Discover the Wonders of Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium
Experience the beauty of nature and the wonders of the universe at Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium, a top tourist attraction in Kingsport, Tennessee.
Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium is a stunning natural oasis in Kingsport, Tennessee, offering a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and cosmic exploration. With miles of trails, rich wildlife, and a captivating planetarium, it's an ideal destination for nature lovers and star gazers alike.
A brief summary to Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium
- 853 Bays Mountain Park Rd, Kingsport, Tennessee, 37660, US
- +1423-229-9447
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-8 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-8 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-8 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-8 pm
- Sunday 11 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends when the park is popular with families.
- Don't forget to check the planetarium schedule for showtimes and special events.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the scenic areas to enhance your outdoor experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the trails can be rugged and vary in difficulty.
- Bring binoculars for bird watching and to fully appreciate the park's diverse wildlife.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Nashville, TN, take I-40 E towards Knoxville. After about 150 miles, take exit 394 for I-81 S towards Chattanooga. Continue on I-81 S for approximately 45 miles, then take exit 63A for US-11W S towards Kingsport. Follow US-11W S for about 8 miles, then turn right onto Bays Mountain Park Rd. Continue on Bays Mountain Park Rd for about 2 miles until you reach Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium at 853 Bays Mountain Park Rd, Kingsport, TN 37660. Parking is available, and there's a fee of $5 per car.
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Public Transportation
To reach Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium using public transport, you can take a Greyhound bus to Kingsport. Once in Kingsport, you will need to use a local taxi or rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) to cover the remaining distance. The park is approximately 8 miles from the Greyhound bus station, and the taxi fare may vary but typically costs around $15-$20. Always check local bus schedules for the latest routes and times.
Discover more about Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium
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