Where Downtown Heritage Meets Modern Comfort! Wake up where Bristol shopped for "Sunday best" in the 1950s. This second-floor loft is housed in the beautifully restored historic Betty Gay department store building, blending original characters with curated modern living. This former department store built in 1898 has been restored into 4 gorgeous modern-designed loft apartments, setting the standard for affordable luxury in the heart of Downtown Bristol. This stylish open-concept loft features exposed brick walls, beautiful hard wood floors & private deck. Our loft, located on the State Line dividing Virginia & Tennessee, is smartly appointed - just bring a change of clothes & explore our vibrant, walkable Downtown. Come let us pamper you! It's Bristol Baby!
Unwind Vacation Rentals presents Urban Living Loft:
We restored this historic Betty Gay Department store building, and you will love its cool vibe and ambiance! It's a great place to relax and unwind after a busy day of exploring Bristol and the surrounding area!
Special Features: Private Entrance Dedicated Parking Space Fast WiFi Smart TVs w/streaming
You will have the entire loft to yourself and also have your own private entrance. The loft entrance is up the back steps, where you can also enjoy your own private deck.
Our loft is located in the heart of Downtown Bristol. You are only steps away from the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, craft breweries, Blackbird Bakery, public library, restaurants, coffee shops, men and women's specialty clothing stores, a shoe store, music venues, performance theaters, cigar shop, gift stores, and most importantly your loft is located over and ice cream & candy store!
You are just 10 minutes away from Bristol Motor Speedway and the Pinnacle mega shopping and entertainment plaza. Our area boasts many outdoor activity adventures, and we're listed as one of the top fly-fishing destinations in the country.
Closely located to: * Bristol Motor Speedway * Hard Rock Casino * Pinnacle Mega Shopping Center * Historic Downtown Bristol * Creeper Trail - Abingdon, VA * Carter Fold & The Crooked Road Music Trail * Birthplace of County Music Museum * Southwest VA Cultural Heritage Center * South Holston Lake * Our area boasts many outdoor adventures, and we are considered one of the top Fly Fishing destinations in the country. -Only 1 hour from Asheville, NC -Close to Knoxville & Gatlinburg- 2 hours away -Close to Beech Mountian Ski Resort, North Carolina - a little over an hour away -Close to Boone & Banner Elk, NC - only 1 hour and 30mins away
We love to host guests from all over the world, and our condos are available for extended stays. Perfect for professionals and traveling executives - make this condo your home away from home!
Our incredible loft is located on the 2nd floor - only 26 steps to the 2nd floor Urban Lifestyle Loft!
The loft must be rented for at least 3-day stays for both NASCAR Bristol races and the Rhythm & Roots Music Festival.
For those looking to exercise - we have several fitness centers located close by that offer daily rates. -Anytime Fitness, YMCA & YWCA, Cross Fit 423, located across the street Other great places that may be of interest: -Grocery store less than a mile away -Hair Salons & Barbershop within walking distance -2 Craft breweries Downtown -Many local restaurants within walking distance
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Must follow all house rules including but not limited to no pets, no smoking and no parties
Important information
You need to know
Property # 1740282
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
About the neighborhood
Bristol
Located in Bristol, this apartment is in the city center. Ida Stone Jones Community Tennis Center and Steele Creek Park are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Paramount Center for the Arts and Southwest Virginia Cultural Center & Marketplace. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Bristol Motor Speedway or Bristol Municipal Stadium. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and rock climbing nearby.
Birthplace of Country Music Museum - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
Southeast Culinary & Hospitality College - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
Cumberland Square Park - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
Paramount Center for the Arts - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
Bristol City Hall - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
Getting around
Abingdon, VA (VJI-Virginia Highlands) - 16 min drive
Restaurants
The Corner Dog House - 14 min walk
Michael Waltrip Brewing Co. - 6 min walk
Barberitos - 17 min walk
Southern Craft BBQ - 5 min walk
Taco Riendo - 17 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is Historic Urban Loft: Where VA meets TN on Foot! pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Historic Urban Loft: Where VA meets TN on Foot!?
As of Jun 1, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Historic Urban Loft: Where VA meets TN on Foot! on Jul 10, 2026 start from $185, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking?
Onsite parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Historic Urban Loft: Where VA meets TN on Foot!?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Historic Urban Loft: Where VA meets TN on Foot!?
Check-out is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Historic Urban Loft: Where VA meets TN on Foot! located?
Located in the heart of Bristol, this apartment building is steps from Paramount Center for the Arts, Bristol Public Library, and Birthplace of Country Music Museum. Southeast Culinary & Hospitality College and Cumberland Square Park are also within 5 minutes.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
I can’t possibly say all the wonderful things about Karen’s property in this space. Location-excellent. Tips on restaurants, things to do, shopping, all from Karen-excellent. The warm and inviting loft, with every imaginable special touch at your fingertips-excellent. Easy parking for our truck. And the deck with chaise lounge and table seat-perfect. It’s Bristol, Baby!
These hosts thought of everything one could possibly have forgotten to pack for a trip. From an extra pair of flip flops to ear buds so you don’t have you hear your loved one snore all night. They have payed attention to every last detail when it comes to accommodating. A experience..
Would definitely stay here again! The loft was very clean and cozy. The location was amazing. Walking distance to many stores, restaurants and bars. Short drive to the Hard Rock Casino. The host was very informative and check in and check out very simple. I would highly recommend
Amazing loft in a perfect location! We were able to walk to most everything we had planned! Karen is absolutely the best host! Her attention to detail is point on!
Loved the location and character of this property!
Jackie G.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024
Verified
10/10 Excellent
LAURA
Aug 8, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
We absolutely loved this place. Our host was exceptional! She communicated clearly, was very attentive and responsive. The loft was immaculate, well appointed, and we felt lucky to find this gem.
Loft beautiful, very clean, owners thought of everything, umbrella and rain ponchos at door for your use, coffees, snacks, over counter medicines, it was perfect! Great location! Professional decorated.
The loft was extremely clean and perfectly located. We had a wonderful time in Bristol TN/VA and we will definitely be coming back and staying in the lofts.
Wiley E.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 17, 2023
Thanks for the review while staying at our centrally located one bedroom open concept loft in downtown Bristol VA. We look forward to hosting you again.
This place was outstanding!! It was clean, well maintained, well equipped, and the location was perfect (within walking distance to everything downtown)!!
Adam S.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 22, 2024
Adam, thanks for the 5 star review of Urban Living loft! So happy to hear that your time away was perfect. We look forward to hosting you again.
Staying at this property made us feel like we were staying at home away from home. It was extremely clean and had all of the amenities that we could think of. The communication with the owners before and during the stay was superb as well. We would definitely stay here again!!!
Christine G.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 15, 2023
Thanks so much Christine for your detailed review of your stay in one of our downtown lofts! Your review will help others when searching for a space to stay when they visit our beautiful area.
Wonderful location in downtown Bristol. The apartment was clean and stocked with everything! Check in was easy and will stay here again!!
Angela C.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 17, 2023
Thanks Angela for your review of your stay at one of our lofts during Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion music festival held for over 20 years in Downtown Bristol. We hope to host you again.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
XMYLza9L3faho8yzWdPKNpD9To7iRkL0Kq+g9gH2ocBN0QES079ysNhch57OAAAAcDBuBgkqhkiG9w0BBwagYTBfAgEAMFoGCSqG L.
So much better than a hotel. Very thoughtful host and beautiful loft. Wish we could have stayed longer!
Rebecca W.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 24, 2024
Rebecca, thanks so much for taking the time to review your stay at our Urban Living loft. Your review will assist other travelers when they are looking for a short term rental in the Bristol, VA/TN. We hope to host you again!
Great place and great location!has everything you need and walking distance from just about anywhere you wanna go!
William R.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 24, 2024
William, thanks for choosing to spend your Anniversary at our Urban Living Loft! We hope that you can celebrate your Anniversary with us again next year!
This was our second time staying in the loft. We stay here because we feel like we are at home. The location is great and the loft has everything we could possibly need. We have already discussed our next stay!
Christine G.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 24, 2024
Thanks for choosing to stay with us again! Our repeat customers are the best! See you again soon.
I've stayed at a lot of rentals, and this one was the best-equipped place I've ever stayed at. They thought of everything and made it available. It's a beautiful, comfortable place in a great location.
We absolutely loved this property. Located in the center of town it's convenient to everything yet still feels tucked away and quiet inside. The decor is unique and the thoughtful amenities make it feel like home. We would love to return!
This loft is not only beautiful and fully equipped, but the hosts are wonderful, accessible and provide special personal touches, they clearly have a lot of pride in this beautiful place and love what they offer, and they include local info to ensure a wonderful experience. The rooftop deck adds an extra special area to enjoy the evenings and mornings. We recommend this place 100%!!
This place was fabulous. The loft has everything you could ever want. Very clean and within walking distance to many places to eat. The owner was very helpful in providing great advice on places to eat and things to see. I would definitely recommend staying here if in the area.
Jackie M.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 15, 2023
Jackie, thanks for the detailed review of your stay in one of our lofts in downtown. We hope we can host you again soon.
The downtown loft is a perfect location when visiting Bristol! The loft is clean and has everything you will need. The owner is very responsive if needed.
Angela C.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
About the host
Hosted by Karen Hester
I am a entrepreneur, real estate developer, small business owner, and community advocate. I have a group of 6 lofts in Downtown Bristol that we have opened up to the Airbnb community. Please come visit #DestinationDowntownBristolLofts, they are located in the heart of Downtown. Live the Bristol experience! I also own 4 beautiful RaceDay Condos situated directly in front of Bristol Motor Speedway.
I am single so I pour my passion into my businesses and my community. I have long term rental properties and several short term rental units. I love architecture, outdoor activities, camping, and lake adventures. I love to travel and we love to host travelers from all over the World coming to Bristol to experience the Birthplace of Country Music, Bristol Motor Speedway or the vast array of outdoor activities. Come stay in one of my great properties and let us pamper you! See you soon. Safe travels!
Why they chose this property
We historically restored three buildings in Historic Downtown Bristol. Its so cool to stay in these lofts with the exposed brick walls, the original wood beam ceilings, and the location Downtown is ideal. You are close to so many music venues, performance theaters, and the Birthplace of Country Music Museum.
Our loft is located on the second floor. Only 26 steps up to the Urban Living Loft.
During warmer weather months, there several live music events, so there is a potential for noise. However, there is a city ordinance that all music must end at 11pm.
This building is over 100 years old and we have beautifully restored it. You will find lots of charm with a modern flair! We have very high cleaning standards, but you may find the naturally occurring brick dust occasionally. In the loft you will find exposed ceiling beams and lots of character throughout.
We have several fitness centers nearby that offer daily rates. -Anytime Fitness -YMCA & YWCA -CrossFit 423 located across the street -Breathe Yoga Studio adjacent to our parking lot -Professional Billiards hall across the street. -Grocery store located less than a mile away -hair salons & barber shops -4 craft breweries downtown -many local restaurants in walking distance
We have a 3 night minimum for race weeks and 2 nights for Rhythm & Roots music festival. We use VRBO Smart Pricing and rates increase during peak times such as Rhythm & Roots Reunion and the 2 NASCAR race events throughout the year.
What makes this property unique
The location makes this property so appealing. We are located on State Street which is the dividing line between Bristol, VA & Bristol, TN. There are lot of great local restaurants, craft breweries, coffee shops, retail stores, bakery, ice cream & candy shop, and a Fudgery. These are all in walking distance. Just park your car in our reserved parking lot and walk all over Downtown.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests