10 Gorgeous Tennessee Towns To Visit In 2023
As you traverse the USA's landscapes, the allure of Pigeon Forge and Sevierville beckons with adventures against the backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains. In 2023, join the rhythms of music festivals in Bristol and experience the warmth of Southern hospitality in Lynchburg. Whether it's relishing mouthwatering barbecue or venturing into underground caverns in McMinnville, these towns offer an intimate encounter with Tennessee's essence. 2023 stands as an open invitation to explore the captivating charm of Tennessee's towns. Dive into the present moment, where history meets modernity, and stories of the past blend seamlessly with the experiences of today. It's time to create memories, relish festivals, and unearth the treasures that Tennessee's towns have to offer.
Bell Buckle
Bell Buckle, a gorgeously small town with a wacky name, is renowned for its vintage pieces, quilts, handicrafts, Southern friendliness, country tunes, and scrumptious food. Bell Buckle's exquisitely restored Victorian architecture will take you back to that era as soon as you step inside. Plan your trip to coincide with the RC-Moon Pie Festival, which honors the town's odd past with competitions, activities, and, naturally, delicious Moon Pies. The Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum, located south of the city, is a must-see for horse enthusiasts due to its extensive displays and exhibitions on equestrian history. The rhythmic melodies of bluegrass and folk music at the Bell Buckle Café, where live performances infuse the atmosphere with soulful tunes, are paired with finger-licking southern meals.
Jonesborough
Even Tennessee did not exist when Jonesborough did, and the town's streets are a tribute to the past. Stop by Christopher Taylor's log cabin from 1778, which is thought to be Jonesborough's oldest dwelling, or satisfy your sweet taste at The Old Sweet Shop, located inside the Old Masonic Hall from the 1800s. A zero-depth wading pool, lazy river, water slide, and other family-friendly activities are available at the town's Wetlands Water Park. The Tennessee Hills Distillery, which offers tours and samples of hand-crafted spirits, is an outstanding spot to have beverages. With the International Storytelling Centre and The National Storytelling Festival, this fascinating town elevates storytelling.
Sevierville
Nestled at the threshold of the majestic Great Smoky Mountains, Sevierville is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking exhilarating escapades. Take a guided tour through the Forbidden Caverns to uncover an underground realm adorned with mesmerizing formations.
Sevierville's charm extends beyond nature's wonders. Dabble in retail therapy at Tanger Outlets, a shopping oasis offering designer treasures at enticing prices. You can embrace the local spirit during the Bloomin' Barbecue & Bluegrass Festival, where the aroma of smoked delicacies intertwines with the toe-tapping melodies of bluegrass tunes. An indoor adventure park for families, Sevier Air Trampoline and Ninja Warrior Park offers everything from high-flying sports to dodgeball and trampolines.
Gatlinburg
East Tennessee's Gatlinburg, an alpine town, is your quick access spot for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. From skiing and snowboarding in the colder months to downhill slides and a wildlife adventure in the summer, Ober Gatlinburg offers thrills all year long.
Explore the artistic side of the community at the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, where you may buy handmade goods and watch artisans at work. The Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair, which highlights the skills of regional craftspeople, is just one of many events that fill the calendar in this tourist destination. You can take a ghost tour of the city's main thoroughfares. Consider signing up for the Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour if you are looking to chill.
McMinnville
Tucked away in the Cumberland Plateau, McMinnville reveals a lesser-known side of Tennessee's allure. You can explore the serenity of Cumberland Caverns, home to awe-inspiring rock formations and underground concerts that resonate within the cavern's acoustics, or embark on the Collins River Canoe Trail for a tranquil paddle through scenic landscapes.
Uncovering the local arts scene at the Park Theater, hosting live performances that range from theatrical productions to musical showcases, will be an absolute delight. McMinnville's Southern charm shines through at the Autumn Street Fair, where food, music, and artisanal crafts harmonize in a delightful celebration. Falcon Rest Mansion & Gardens, a Victorian mansion steeped in history and adorned with manicured gardens, is another pleasant stop to add to the list.
Rogersville
Rogersville promises a picturesque slice of history with a stroll through its charming streets, flanked by beautifully preserved buildings that whisper tales of days gone by. You can explore the Rogersville Heritage Association's guided walking tour, unveiling stories of the past behind the town's landmarks.
Cultural enthusiasts will be captivated by the historic Hale Springs Inn, offering not only elegant accommodations but also a glimpse into the town's heritage. Dive into local flavors at the Rogersville Farmers Market, a vibrant hub of fresh produce and artisanal goods. The ambiance of the Rogersville Arts Council, where artistic endeavors come to life through exhibitions and workshops, will brim your senses with inspiration.
Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge paints a vibrant canvas of adventure and entertainment. Starting with, you can experience the heart-pounding adventures at Dollywood, where exhilarating rides and toe-tapping shows await. Pigeon Forge thrives on festivals like the Winterfest Trolley Tour of Lights and the Quiltfest, which celebrates the art of quilting. The Titanic Museum beckons history buffs with its interactive exhibits that recreate the fateful voyage.
Speaking of outdoor adventure, take a day or two to travel through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, or hire a raft, paddle board, or canoe and cruise the Pigeon River. You might even camp out during your visit for a thrilling but calm night under the stars.
Bristol
One common thing between Virginia and Tennessee: they both have Bristol. Tennessee's Bristol's claim to fame lies in being the Birthplace of Country Music, a heritage celebrated at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. Uncover its rhythmic legacy at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, and let the town serenade you during the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, a jubilant festival celebrating the roots of American music.
Venture outdoors to South Holston Lake, where you can have a go at fishing, boating, and serene lakeside picnics against a backdrop of rolling hills. Explore the Appalachian Caverns for an underground adventure, unveiling intriguing formations and subterranean wonders. A visit to the Bristol Train Station, a beautifully restored landmark showcasing the town's railway heritage, would be worthwhile.
Pulaski
Pulaski invites you to embark on a journey that weaves history and natural beauty into an enchanting thread. Begin your exploration at the Sam Davis Home, an architectural marvel that transports you to the Civil War era through meticulously preserved artifacts and insightful exhibits. The Giles County Courthouse stands tall, an emblem of the town's enduring heritage. If time permits, then do check out the annual Giles County Tomato Festival, a vibrant celebration of local agriculture complete with tomato-themed contests, live music, and mouth watering treats. For a taste of local culture, the Martin Methodist College showcases thought-provoking art exhibitions and theatrical performances. Milky Way Farm takes you on a ride of an estate boasting lush landscapes and a historic mansion.
Lynchburg
Lynchburg is a place where stories are distilled into every corner, quite literally. It's the birthplace of Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey, and a guided tour through the historic Jack Daniel's Distillery reveals the alchemy behind this world-renowned spirit. You can learn about the town's storied past at the Moore County Old Jail Museum, where tales of prohibition and notable characters come to life. Time your visit for the Jack Daniel's World Championship Invitational Barbecue, a legendary event featuring mouthwatering barbecue, live music, and camaraderie. The hidden gem of Lynchburg lies in its Lynchburg Winery, where local grapes are transformed into exquisite wines. Here, you may try the tantalizing flavors amid serene vineyard views, making every sip a tribute to Tennessee's rich agricultural heritage.
In the realm of travel experiences, Tennessee's enchanting towns in 2023 greet you with their irresistible blend of history, nature, and culture. The beauty of these towns lies not only in their stunning façades but also in the stories they share, the festivals they host, and the experiences they gift. From the artistic haven of Bell Buckle to the magic of festivals, tales, crafts, and delicacies that converge in Bristol, you will gather a gazillion memories to fill your books. Venture forth into this patchwork of captivating destinations in Tennessee and capture moments that resonate for a lifetime.
