I’m a science nerd, so when I spotted the Hand Holding Molecules sculpture in Johnson City, Tennessee on our route through East Tennessee, we were absolutely stopping. No question.
This sculpture sits outside Eastman Chemical Company’s headquarters in Johnson City, Tennessee, and it’s exactly what it sounds like: a massive hand gripping a cluster of molecular structures. There’s also a separate set of molecules nearby, because apparently one wasn’t enough.
It’s the kind of roadside art that makes you pull over, take some photos, and appreciate that someone decided “you know what this corporate campus needs? Giant science.”
Hand Holding Molecules Johnson City: What Is This Sculpture?
The hand holding molecules sculpture is public art at Eastman Chemical’s Johnson City facility. Eastman is a major chemical company that’s been around since 1920, and this sculpture reflects their focus on molecular science and innovation.
It’s not a museum or a tour stop – it’s just outdoor art you can see from the road or parking area. Perfect for a quick photo if you’re driving through the area and want to add something unusual to your day.
Here’s the separate molecule cluster we spotted nearby:
Want to learn more about Eastman Chemical and their Johnson City operations? Check out their official site.
Why We Stopped
We were doing short drive days through Tennessee in January 2023, stopping at random roadside attractions between Nashville and the Virginia border. The hand holding molecules was one of several quirky finds in the Johnson City/Kingsport area that day, along with giant food sculptures, another Peter Toth Whispering Giant, and other East Tennessee oddities.
Sometimes the best stops are the ones you don’t plan for – you just see something weird on the map and go check it out. This was one of those.
Other Stops Near Johnson City
If you’re in the area looking for more unusual attractions, we found a bunch of stuff within a short drive:
– Junaluska – Trail of the Whispering Giants sculpture
– Giant food attractions in East Tennessee
Visit Info: Hand Holding Molecules Sculpture
- 📍 Location: Eastman Chemical Company, Johnson City, Tennessee
- 💵 Cost: Free (visible from public areas)
- 🕒 Time Needed: 5-10 minutes for photos
- 🐾 Pets: Should be fine for outdoor photos
- 📸 Photo Tip: The hand sculpture is the main attraction, but don’t miss the separate molecule cluster nearby
Final Thoughts
Is this worth planning an entire trip around? No. But if you’re driving through East Tennessee and you like quirky roadside art that celebrates science, it’s an easy stop. We were in and out in less than 10 minutes with photos of both sculptures.
Sometimes that’s all you need – a weird thing on the side of the road that makes you smile and reminds you why road trips are better than flying over everything.
📍 Looking for more unusual Tennessee stops? Check out our Tennessee travel guide for all the weird and wonderful places we’ve found across the state.