13 Cutest Small Towns In Tennessee For 2025
According to the Tennessee Tourism Statistics, over 140 million visitors toured the state in 2023, making it one of the most popular destinations in the South. Although most came to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Volunteer State has no shortage of exciting places to visit. The best part is that you don't have to deal with the hustle and bustle of big cities like Nashville to experience the charm of this beautiful state.
Straying away from the major highways reveals some of the region's best-kept secrets. The cutest small towns in Tennessee for 2025 deliver an authentic countryside experience. Visitors revel in the opportunity to discover unique state history in Jonesborough and indulge in adrenaline-filled aerial adventures in Gatlinburg amidst the charm of small-town Tennessee.
Gatlinburg
Besides being a “Gateway to the Great SmokyMountains”, Gatlinburg sustains its year-round supply of visitors with an impressive network of family-centric attractions. The town's rich natural surroundings result in some of the best scenery in Tennessee's countryside, which visitors can climb to the 140-foot observation deck of the Gatlinburg SkyPark to soak up sweeping views. Thrill seekers will fancy an adrenaline-filled ride on the Moonshine Mountain Coaster, which glides through the lush wilderness of the Smokies at dizzying speeds.
Gatlinburg is also home to Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. This beautiful marine life sanctuary welcomes families to admire pleasant underwater species behind a glass screen, including penguins, sting rays, sharks, and giant sea turtles.
Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge is the ultimate destination for a fun family getaway, famous for its world-class amusement parks and thrill rides for all ages. The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is tailored for those who like to push their fear to the limit. This hair-raising excursion winds through the Smoky Mountains woodlands along the country's longest downhill track. However, you can take your kids to the Island in Pigeon Forge for a more child-safe alternative. This 23-acre fun park features everything from thrill rides and a Ferris wheel to water fountains and restaurants, accommodating all ages.
Pigeon Forge also charms visitors with a string of quirky museum venues. You can choose between interacting with waxed figures of celebrities at the Hollywood Wax Museum and exploring centuries-old artifacts at the Titanic Museum to experience the town's eccentric side.
Paris
This Henry County community stands out for hosting a replica of one of the most iconic buildings in the world. Paris is home to the Eiffel Tower, which, although smaller than its French counterpart, is a joy to the eyes. The 60-foot landmark sits in the middle of Eiffel Tower Park and provides an ideal backdrop for photo opportunities. A tour of the Paris Henry County Heritage Center introduces guests to the rich history and culture of the region. The facility is loaded with artifacts and memorabilia chronicling the town's evolution since the early days.
The annual World's Biggest Fish Fry Festival is a must-attend event in Paris. Scheduled for April 19, 2025, this family-friendly extravaganza celebrates the community's fishing heritage with a parade, live music, carnival rides, games, and other fun activities.
Jonesborough
Jonesborough markets itself as Tennessee's oldest town and promises vacationers a rare look into the state's early days. It preserves a walkable historic district jam-packed with antique structures, with the focal point being the Chester Inn State Historic Site. This former hotel-turned museum traces its origins to the 18th century and displays numerous artifacts depicting life in Jonesborough at the time. History and culture collide inside the Jonesborough Repertory Theatre, where townsfolk gather to watch compelling stage presentations in a rustic venue.
Meanwhile, tourists who appreciate a well-told story can visit the International Storytelling Center to learn about the unique art of storytelling. The location hosts talented narrators from around the nation to entertain and educate audiences.
Greeneville
This historic college community in Greene County presents a combination of dynamic historical heritage and a bustling art scene. It was named after Nathanael Green and is the hometown of Andrew Johnson. Unsurprisingly, the town honors one of its most famous sons with the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site. The old building showcases personal memorabilia on the legacy of America's 17th president. A deeper dive into the town's past awaits at the Greenville Greene County Historical Museum. Here, first-timers can learn about its chronology since its establishment in the 1780s.
Elsewhere, Tusculum University has helped raise Greenville's stature as an arts hub. Thanks to the Niswonger Performing Arts Center, enthusiasts come from around the region to watch enthralling plays, musicals, comedies, and more.
Bristol
Bristol is a unique twin city split between Tennessee and Virginia, with a rich musical heritage and beautiful outdoor scenery. The U.S Congress recognized it as the "Birthplace of Country Music," and it stays true to its roots by entertaining guests with live performances at Paramount Bristol. This live music venue stands out for its Art Deco style and vintage Mighty Wurlitzer organ. Steele Creek Park best embodies the town's natural splendor. This 2,000-acre waterfront oasis harbors 20 miles of picturesque nature trails, picnic areas, and a nature center.
Racing fans and motorsports enthusiasts are always flocking to the Bristol Motor Speedway for an adrenaline-inducing spectacle on the tarmac. The atmosphere fills with cheers and jeers as charged-up spectators watch competitive NASCAR races.
Savannah
This scenic village on the eastern bank of the Tennessee River enjoys a serene natural atmosphere tailored for easygoing vacations. It is home to beautiful outdoor spaces tailored for isolating yourself, such as Wayne Jerrolds River Park. Spanning approximately 10 acres, the sanctuary beckons travelers with quiet walking trails, peaceful picnic pavilions, and a boat for a sail down the Tennessee River. The iconic waterway's rich heritage is extensively documented at the Tennessee River Museum. Inside lies a collection of artifacts detailing its enduring history.
Savannah is famous for its remarkable events, and every Wednesday, local crafters and vendors gather at the Savannah Farmers' Community Market to sell their merchandise. Another eagerly anticipated extravaganza to watch out for is the Savannah Bluegrass Festival in June 2025.
Tullahoma
Tullahoma welcomes travelers to explore its winning mix of natural beauty, historical heritage, and vibrant arts and culture. It played an essential part in the evolution of the aviation industry when it hosted the Beech Aircraft Corporation. Today, guests tour the Beechcraft Heritage Museum to learn about its legacy and admire a fleet of over thirty vintage aeroplanes from the 1920s. Outdoor enthusiasts can't help but discover the magical scenes inside Short Springs Natural Area. Covering over 400 acres, the reserve is known for its spectacular waterfalls, including Machine and Adam Falls.
Elsewhere, culture vultures are in for an unforgettable encounter at the Tullahoma Fine Arts Center. Housed in a gorgeous Italianate building, the center displays different art forms, including paintings and woodwork, by area artists.
Sevierville
Sevierville is a small yet bustling town forty minutes from Knoxville, making it an excellent escape from the busy city. It has a rich spectrum of attractions to ensure all visitors enjoy their stay, and touring families will have a blast at RainForest Adventures Discovery Zoo. This delightful refuge has over 130 species of wildlife, some of which you can pet. Those who fancy a shopping experience can head to Tanger Outlets Sevierville and check out the latest fashion accessories in renowned designer-brand stores.
Sevierville is the birthplace of country music legend Dolly Parton. The town erected a life-size statue of the iconic singer in the middle of the Sevier County Courthouse lawn as a tribute to her achievements. You can often see country music fans posing for a photo with the statue.
Smithville
This relaxed waterfront escape on the shores of Center Hill Lake has the vibe for a mellow-paced vacation in rural Tennessee. Many visitors come to take advantage of the aquatic opportunities provided by the Hidden Harbor Marina. Several rental services allow you to enjoy a laid-back paddling or boating excursion on the water. When not on the water, consider testing the effectiveness of your swing at the Smithville Golf Club. This well-maintained course accommodates all skill levels while spoiling them with terrific nature views.
If you appreciate the arts, the Harvester Performance and Event Center stages engaging shows and events you will enjoy, including concerts. Meanwhile, you can target the annual Smithville Fiddlers' Jamboree and Crafts Festival on July 4, 2025, for a more immersive experience.
Townsend
Townsend is one of the most underrated cutest small towns in Tennessee for 2025, probably because of its location on the "quiet side" of the Great Smoky Mountains. Despite this, it excites holidaymakers with abundant outdoor opportunities, beckoning them with rare underground adventures at Tuckaleechee Caverns. This popular site features a dramatic cavern system with stalagmites, stalactites, and an underground waterfall. If you don't manage to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you can learn interesting facts about it at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center.
The venue stores dozens of exhibits that preserve and share the cultures of people living around the iconic mountain range. Finally, spare a few minutes to explore intimate creations by locals at the Townsend Art Center, featuring paintings, pottery, fiber arts, and more.
Morristown
Morristown uniquely balances its small-town flair and vibrant urban sprawl thanks to its proximity to Knoxville, resulting in the best of both worlds for tourists. The 1,400-acre Panther Creek State Park provides more than adequate room for adventurers to immerse themselves in the great outdoors through biking, camping, fishing, and hiking. Downtown Morristown offers more contemporary pursuits, including a retail therapy session at College Square Mall. With a mix of gourmet restaurants, brand-name retailers, and entertainment outlets, it feels like being in the big city.
Morristown also takes tourists on an eye-opening journey through time at the Rose Center Museum. The venue stores piles of rare artifacts highlighting the community's past, including Civil War memorabilia.
Lynchburg
Lynchburg is nationally recognized as the home of Jack Daniels, and many visitors come to discover the genesis of Tennessee's most famous alcoholic export. One of the top attractions in the town is the Jack Daniels Distillery Visitor Center. Here, guests can tour the facility to learn about the history and process of creating the brand before sampling the freshly distilled whiskey. But if you want to indulge in alcohol, it is crucial to ensure that you do it on a full stomach. BBQ Caboose Cafe serves sumptuous ribs and steaks that will tantalize your taste buds.
Also, don't forget to check out Lynchburg's long standing heritage at the Moore County Old Jail Museum. This rustic brick building was constructed in 1893 and preserves old wall hangings, clothing, and artifacts that are a stark reminder of a prisoner's life.
Final Thought
While the Great Smoky Mountains is the outright crowning jewel in the Volunteer State, attracting over 12 million visitors annually, there is much more to see and do in this richly diverse destination. Beyond the vibrant downtowns in Memphis and Chattanooga, the cutest small towns in Tennessee for 2025 prove that you can expect just as gratifying an adventure in the backcountry. From the Great Smoky Mountains without the crowds in Townsend to pausing beside the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the stage is set for an unforgettable Southern itinerary.
