And in just the past few years, the restored Cameo Theater on the Virginia side brought even more flair to these “twin cities.” Of course, it doesn’t hurt that Bristol is the Birthplace of Country Music and home to one of racing’s biggest shrines. The bright colors and flashing lights of the restored Paramount Theater along State Street helped light the way to the Bristol boom of today. Today, the heartbeat of both Bristols runs right down State Street. Once a thriving railroad town, Bristol, like many other cities saw shopping centers and malls drain the life out of downtown. And in case you get confused about where you are, an historic sign at the end of State Street points you in the right direction and reminds you that whether it’s Bristol, Virginia or Bristol, Tennessee, it’s a good place to live (and visit)! There aren’t many places where the main street in a town straddles the state line, but in the heart of Bristol, one side of the street proudly displays the seal of the Commonwealth of Virginia while the stars of Tennessee’s grand divisions shine on the other.
