Urban Dharma is a welcoming, fun spot. It is a Buddhist community center of sorts, with weekly…read moreclasses and 'drop in' sessions. Check it out!

A unique spiritual place in the Tri Cities. They host travelling Buddhist monks, teach meditation,…read moreTaoism, mindfulness, offer support groups, study groups. Seekers of Eastern spiritualism of many stripes appear to be welcome. Check out the website, stop by and look at the calendar, or just focus on the nothingness of our oneness. Peace and stillness, y'all.

From the owner: The Appalachian Dharma & Meditation Center (ADMC) is a nonsectarian Buddhist center in downtown…read moreJohnson City, Tennessee, welcoming meditators from across the Tri-Cities — Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol — and the wider East Tennessee region. Founded in 2012 and run by lay practitioners, we offer weekly meditation sessions, dharma talks, and study groups drawing on Western Buddhism, Zen, Tibetan, and Taoist traditions. Programs run both in person and online throughout the week, including Sunday morning dharma and a self-guided lunchtime sit. Newcomers are always welcome — no experience or particular belief required. Come cultivate insight, compassion, and a little stillness with a friendly community of practice.

Came here for a weekend meditation retreat and gained exactly what I was seeking: peace,…read moretranquility and inspiration. The original building is almost 100 years old & the property is in definite need of improvement. But, that's actually the charm. Also, as a Buddhist interfaith organization, the cost is affordable, as most of the operations rely on Dana (generosity in Pali - the language of the Buddha). The idea is that the teachings are accessible to all. So don't let money be a deterrent from visiting. Each room has its own bathroom, so there's no need to share, which is unusual for a Buddhist meditation retreat center. They also provide all towels & sheets. You will need to bring your own toiletries. Also, I loved the "meditation pool" (the original swimming pool has been filled in) and took in the sun from one of the reclining chairs. They are also putting in an infrared sauna. And, you can walk down to the lake from their property in 2 minutes. Finally, be sure to attend a talk by the Venerable Pannavati. Each Sunday at 12 noon, there is a public talk. She's inspiring, kind and welcoming. I'll definitely be back!

Just spent a fabulous weekend at a retreat at Heartwood Refuge. The schedule was well-planned and…read moreexecuted, the staff warm and welcoming, and the lodging, grounds and vibe just beautiful. Will return soon; highly recommended.