12 Prettiest Small Towns In Tennessee
Tennessee is one of the most visited states in the Southern United States, drawing travelers with its unmatched natural beauty, vibrant musical heritage, and trademark Southern charm. While the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the ultimate crowning jewel, attracting over 12 million visitors in 2024, there is no shortage of touristy incentives to make you want to explore the Volunteer State. Beyond the chaos and commotion in big cities like Nashville and Memphis, several hidden gems welcome vacationers to revel in the quieter side of the state.
Together, they are the true lifeblood of the region, harboring hidden histories, captivating cultures, and unforgettable outdoor thrills. From admiring the enchanting peaks of the Smokies in Gatlinburg to immersing in the storied beginnings of the state in Jonesborough, the prettiest small towns in Tennessee leave a lasting impression on first-time visitors and returnees alike.
Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge is a picturesque mountain community in eastern Tennessee with a family-friendly vibe and attractions to excite all ages. It receives sustained tourist traffic throughout the year, with many coming to experience its world-class amusement parks. The Island in Pigeon Forge is a must-visit, spanning 23 acres of unadulterated entertainment and featuring a Ferris wheel, thrill rides, shops, restaurants, and more. Those feeling adventurous ride the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster for an adrenaline-filled excursion through the Smokies wilderness at breakneck speeds.
Pigeon Forge is known for its cluster of quirky museums, which leave first-timers scratching their heads. The Hollywood Wax Museum is an excellent example, displaying a series of wax figures with an uncanny resemblance to the Hollywood celebrity doubles.
Greenville
Named in honor of Nathanael Green, a Revolutionary War hero, Greeneville is a municipality steeped in history and the hometown of America’s 17th president. The Andrew Johnson National Historic Site preserves President Andrew Johnson’s abode, offering a glimpse of his life in the city in his two homes, a tailor shop, and his gravesite. Greeneville’s storied origins date back to 1780, when it was established as the state’s second-oldest community. Its long heritage is preserved and interpreted at the Greeneville Greene County Historical Museum.
The presence of Tusculum University has elevated the town’s stature as an arts and culture hub. Enthusiasts from around the region often gather inside the Niswonger Performing Arts Center to catch riveting stage productions, including comedic, musical, and dramatic shows.
Tullahoma
Tullahoma is a hidden gem in the south-central corner of Tennessee, known for its stunning natural landscapes, captivating history, and lively arts community. It promises boundless opportunities for the outdoorsy tourist, starting with exploring the scenic trails through Short Springs Natural Area. This 420-acre oasis boasts a series of spectacular waterfalls that promise to leave you in awe. Tullahoma’s history intertwines with the aviation industry, and this is documented inside the Beechcraft Heritage Museum. An impressive fleet of vintage aircrafts preserves the story of the Beech Aircraft Corporation.
Those who gravitate towards the arts won’t mind examining the lovely pieces exhibited at the Tullahoma Fine Arts Center. This stunning Italianate venue showcases an assortment of woodwork, paintings, and textile art produced by regional creatives.
Jonesborough
Jonesborough’s most recognized claim to fame is Tennessee’s oldest town, so guests come expecting an immersive journey through the state’s infantile stages. The best place to start is at the heart of the historic district, which harbors a trove of vintage treasures, highlighted by the Chester Inn State Historic Site and Museum. This rustic inn-come museum provides a glimpse of life in 18th-century Jonesborough through rare artifacts, memorabilia, and relics. The Jonesborough Repertory Theatre is another notable landmark in the district, treating the community to entertaining plays, musicals, and other theatrical presentations since the old days.
However, you can witness a unique form of performance art at the International Storytelling Center. This intimate venue celebrates the art of oral narration by hosting talented storytellers from across the globe.
Ripley
Ripley is a modest town in Lauderdale County framed by soothing natural spaces and harboring a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. It invites vacationers to delight in the outdoors at the 50-acre Ripley City Park, which offers picnic pavilions, walking pathways, and sports fields for the public’s use. Those feeling adventurous can disappear into the sprawling wilderness of the Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge. This 25,000-acre refuge along the Mississippi River has exciting opportunities for adventurers who want to stake out native wildlife.
Downtown Ripley is a vibrant corridor with delectable surprises for culinary enthusiasts. Its impressive cluster of eateries treats first-timers to sumptuous Southern-style flavors at Olympic Steakhouse. This quaint diner serves mouth-watering steaks in a welcoming setting.
Morristown
Morristown’s proximity to Knoxville means the famous city often overshadows it, but this doesn’t detract from its scenic lakeside allure and pleasant outdoor opportunities. Over 1,400 acres of Panther Creek State Park present the ultimate playground for ardent adventurers, fueling activities like mountain biking, hiking, camping, and fishing in the Cherokee Reservoir. Beyond the open spaces, downtown Morristown welcomes travelers to explore local history at the Rose Center Museum. This resourceful center showcases quirky artifacts about the area's history, including Civil War relics.
Alternatively, you can indulge your love for shopping and dining at the College Square Mall. The expansive location houses at least fifty renowned brands, gourmet restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Savannah
This adorable village in Hardin County sits on the banks of the Tennessee River and houses several riverside parks boasting terrific panoramas of the famous waterway. Wayne Jerrolds River Park is among the popular outdoor escapes, offering ten acres of recreation grounds with peaceful walking paths, grassy picnic areas, and a boat ramp. The Tennessee River Museum documents the colorful heritage of the Tennessee River Valley through rare artifacts and memorabilia.
Every Wednesday, the townspeople converge at the Savannah Farmers Community Market, offering foreigners the perfect opportunity to learn about local culture. Alternatively, you can wait for the Savannah Bluegrass Festival for a more immersive cultural encounter in an upbeat atmosphere.
Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is one of the most visited small towns in Tennessee, thanks to its location at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Unsurprisingly, the town is chock full of attractions to keep its guests happy, starting with the state-of-the-art Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. Families flock to this incredible marine sanctuary to marvel at species like sharks, penguins, giant turtles, and more behind a glass cage.
The picturesque peaks of the Smokies frame Gatlinburg’s dream natural scenery, and one of the best ways to take it in is to visit the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook. Alternatively, you can take a flight to the 400-foot platform of the Gatlinburg Space Needle and soak in the sweeping panoramas of the city and the Great Smoky Mountains.
Dyersburg
This relaxed rural community near the Tennessee-Missouri border is known for welcoming residents who demonstrate trademark Southern hospitality. Travelers have all the incentives to tour and experience local culture, especially during the multiple events held throughout the year. This includes the Spring Arts Festival, hosted by the Dyersburg State Community College. Downtown Dyersburg is a pedestrian-friendly corridor offering a diverse mix of culinary flavors. Foodies will relish trying this at Moustos Pasta & Grill, which serves authentic Italian cuisine, such as Italian carbonara and seafood tortellini.
Meanwhile, the Dyer County Veterans’ Walk of Fame pays tribute to warriors who sacrificed their lives for the sake of the country. Its surreal atmosphere features a Civil War-era cannon and a memorial stone.
Smithville
This relaxed waterfront town lies on the scenic shores of Center Hill Lake and boasts the ideal escape for vacationers who cherish some fun on the water. The Hidden Harbor Marina welcomes guests to get into their wetsuits and indulge in recreation like boating, water skiing, paddling, and more. But if you don’t want to get wet, you can take it easy with a round at Smithville Golf Club. The well-maintained 9-hole boasts pristine greens and manicured fairways surrounded by terrific natural views.
Meanwhile, if you are in the mood to up the ante, consider stopping by the Harvester Performance and Event Center. This popular social hub draws tourists and residents alike with captivating concerts, weddings, private parties, and other events in a festive setting.
Lynchburg
This south-central Tennessee town is best recognized as the home of the state’s most famous export, Jack Daniel’s whiskey. Lynchburg houses the Jack Daniel’s Distillery, which schedules amazing tours exploring the country’s oldest registered distillery. It also features a museum explaining the brand's evolution and exhibits rare memorabilia and archives. The area's curious history comes alive at the Moore County Old Jail Museum. This 19th-century jailhouse provides a glimpse of life for prisoners at the time through original cells, wall hangings, old clothing, and other historical artifacts.
Don't miss out on Lynchburg's vibrant restaurant scene and the sumptuous barbecues served at its many eateries. Barrel House BBQ is especially famous for its Southern-style delicacies, featuring pulled pork, smoked sausages, and tasty ribs.
Cleveland
Cleveland is a vibrant Chattanooga suburb steeped in railroad heritage and home to an impressive park system. It offers numerous opportunities for outdoorsy tourists, inviting them to explore the forested Fletcher Park. The 70-acre sanctuary hosts a quiet Japanese garden tailored for relaxing and multiple walking trails weaving the area. Elsewhere, Red Clay State Historic Park blends lovely nature and cultural rich heritage in a 260-acre reserve. The historic pasture land was once a Native American hub that hosted critical cultural events and offers hiking, picnicking, and nature-viewing activities.
Beyond the great outdoors, Cleveland treats its visitors to a heart-pounding experience at the Haunted House of Cleveland. This quirky venue exposes your deepest fears and tests your courage with crafted scares and hidden props in a chilling atmosphere.
Final Thought
The Volunteer State has a bag of tricks to spark your holidays, whether an outdoor thrill seeker, history enthusiast, culture connoisseur, or food lover. The best small towns in Tennessee reveal the charm awaiting visitors beyond the chaos in the major metro areas, allowing them to indulge in authentic experiences and discover the true heart and soul of the state. From Jonesborough’s unmatched heritage to Gatlinburg's alluring nature, they all make for the perfect small-town getaway.
