10 Most Relaxing Tennessee Towns

Tennessee's delightful natural scenery, country music heritage, and Southern charm offer a relaxing vibe for tourists. Nestled amidst rolling hills, serene lakes, and majestic mountains, the state harbors idyllic little towns that provide the perfect backdrop for unwinding and reconnecting with nature. They are the ideal alternative to the bustle of city life, inviting travelers to slow down and enjoy life's simple pleasures.

Whether wandering through Jonesborough's historic downtown or indulging in delicious Southern cuisine in Lynchburg, it is an opportunity to let down your hair as you take a break from the fast pace of modern life. From the soothing sounds of nature to the warm hospitality of the South, these relaxing towns in Tennessee encourage visitors to recharge while embracing the beauty of their surroundings.

Gatlinburg

A gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg experiences sustained tourist traffic throughout the year. This popular resort town is known for its rich natural surroundings and fun attractions. It hosts the Ripleys Aquarium of the Smokies, which intrigues families with rare marine life encounters, featuring species like sting rays, penguins, and sea turtles. The Gatlinburg SkyPark promises unmissable experiences, including riding a chairlift to the iconic SkyBridge for epic views of the Smokies from 140 feet in the air.

If you want to turn up the ante, nothing gets you going more than an adrenaline-filled ride on the Moonshine Mountain Coaster. This thrilling trip whizzes through the Smokies' lush wilderness for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Dandridge

Dandridge's relaxing surroundings feature the picturesque peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains and the cool breeze from Dandridge Lake. This waterfront escape treats visitors to thrilling aquatic adventures, from boating and kayaking to jet skiing, courtesy of Smoky Mountain Lake Adventures. Plan to tour Bush's Visitor Center for a quaint glimpse of the past. This pleasant location tells the story of how a well-known food brand started and grew to what it is today.

While walking around the downtown area, you bump into colorful local businesses worth stopping by. Remember to check out the exhibits at the Shoppes at Roper Mansion for a vintage treasure you can add to your home decor.

Jonesborough

Tennessee's oldest town tells an intriguing tale of the state's rich beginnings guaranteed to leave you immersed in nostalgia. It hosts an exciting historic district that takes you back to the pioneer years. At the Chester Inn State Historic Site and Museum, you can get an idea of life in Jonesborough in the 18th century while exploring one of the town's oldest buildings. Those who appreciate a well-delivered narration should consider touring the International Storytelling Center to experience the beautiful art of storytelling.

Meanwhile, theater lovers can catch exciting live performances at the Jonesborough Repertory Theatre. It stages an array of stage productions by budding amateurs and seasoned professionals in an intimate location.

Savannah

Set along the banks of the Tennessee River, Savannah charms its visitors with unprecedented vistas of the iconic waterway. It has multiple nature spaces with the perfect isolated setting to relax and decompress, including Wayne Jerrolds River Park. The site offers 10 acres of recreational space, with amenities like pavilions, walking trails, and a boat ramp. You will learn fascinating facts about the history of the Tennessee River Valley at the Tennessee River Museum, home to one-of-a-kind artifacts and archives.

Savannah hosts several events and festivals that enable travelers to interact with locals in a friendly and fun atmosphere, such as the Savannah Farmers Community Market. Meanwhile, one of the best times for a rich cultural experience is during the Savannah Bluegrass Festival.

Pigeon Forge

This eastern Tennessee mountain town has all the ingredients to make tourists leave behind the city life and revel in the pleasures of the state's lush backcountry. Its long list of attractions ranges from thrilling to subtle, starting with the Island in Pigeon Forge. This popular amusement park provides everything from rides and fountains to restaurants and a Ferris wheel for a wholesome experience.

Pigeon Forge's quirky museums promise to tickle your curiosity. The Hollywood Wax Museum is an excellent example, exhibiting life-like wax figures of all your favorite TV and film celebrities. But if you crave an adrenaline-inducing pursuit, ride the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster for an unforgettable ride through the dense foliage of the Smoky Mountains.

Smithville

Smithville lies on the shores of Center Hill Lake and provides a charming getaway for holidayers with a thing for isolated destinations. Getting on the water is a priority for many first-timers in the town, and you can access watercraft rentals at the Hidden Harbor Marina. This vibrant gathering spot also hosts shops and restaurants for those who just want to admire the scenery without venturing on the water. Easygoing tee time on the chill grounds of Smithville Golf Club is another great way to spend time outdoors.

But those who prefer to stay indoors will find the perfect pastime at the Harvester Performance and Event Center. This community-based venue draws newcomers and locals alike with entertaining concerts, adorable weddings, and other events.

Townsend

Housing less than 1,000 residents, Townsend enjoys ready access to the stunning wilderness of the Smokies without the crowds on the busy side of the Smokies, resulting in one of the most relaxing towns in Tennessee. Opportunities abound for ardent outdoorsmen, including adventurous hikes to the spectacular Crooked Arm Cascades, located in the middle of Cades Cove. Meanwhile, the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center allows you to connect with the history of the Smokies through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.

If you appreciate the arts, take a few minutes to immerse in the local art scene at the Townsend Art Center. The venue exhibits a range of art forms by local artists, featuring pottery, paintings, jewelry, fiber arts, and more.

Monterey

Tucked away in the foothills of the Tennessee Mountains, Monterey endears itself to vacationers with small-town flair and raw rural charm. It is enveloped by picturesque landscapes that you can get the best views of from Bee Rock Overlook. A 0.6-mile hike to the vantage point rewards you with sweeping panoramas of the surroundings. Monetary's storied heritage comes to life at the Monterey Depot Museum. The fascinating facility has a selection of artifacts depicting the town's chronology from the prehistoric Indian occupation and coal mining days to the lumbering era.

If you enjoy golfing, test your swing on the pristine greens of Cumberland Cove Golf Course. The course is perfect for beginners and seasoned professionals, posing a casual challenge in a peaceful setting.

Signal Mountain

This serene suburban town is recognized for its exceptional natural surroundings, flanked by waterfalls, wooded trails, lakes, and overlooks. It offers all the excuses to venture into the great outdoors, with a chance to capture the stunning landscapes on your camera by hiking to the Julia Falls Overlook. The sweeping panoramas of the Tennessee River Valley are unprecedented.

Those seeking an easy trail to explore the backcountry will be comfortable along the Rainbow Lake Trail. This 2-mile loop passes through a quiet wooded section, culminating at the peaceful shores of Rainbow Lake, perfect for a relaxing picnic. After a demanding adventure, take it easy by watching a stage performance at the family-friendly Signal Mountain Playhouse.

Lynchburg

Lynchburg is synonymous with Tennessee whiskey, being home to the Jack Daniels Distillery. Guests from around the country come to learn about the state's most famous whiskey export at the Jack Daniels Distillery Visitor Center. The establishment schedules guided tours that expose you to the crafting process and rare exhibits portraying the evolution of the brand since its beginnings. Lynchburg's downtown has an eclectic mix of businesses, highlighted by a vibrant barbecue scene. When hungry, pop into BBQ Caboose Cafe for flavorful ribs and pulled pork with a dose of Southern hospitality.

After a hearty meal, walk around the quaint district to explore the town's captivating story. You can get an invaluable experience at the Moore County Old Jail Museum, which was constructed in the late 19th century. Inside the building, vintage clothing, relics, and artifacts provide a look into the past periods.

Take some time away from the busy city to unwind in the relaxing towns in Tennessee, where the gentle pace of life allows you to recharge and reconnect with nature. Each destination offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, friendly communities, and local attractions that invite you to slow down and savor the moment. From roaming the historic streets of Jonesborough to enjoying the tranquility of Dandridge, there is no shortage of opportunities to relax and rejuvenate in the United States.