2024's 7 Most Beautiful Small Towns in Tennessee

Tennessee, a landlocked Southern state, is most famous for being the capital of country music, with millions flocking to Nashville each year to see their favorite artists. However, beyond Nashville, Tennessee boasts numerous small towns equally worthy of exploration. These towns offer stunning landscapes, including the Appalachian Mountains, rivers, and valleys, alongside unique attractions such as historic landmarks from the 18th century, excellent whiskey, and delightful candy shops. Here are seven of Tennessee's most beautiful small towns you can visit in 2024.

Jonesborough

Jonesborough is the oldest town in the state, founded in 1779 prior to Tennessee becoming the 16th state in the Union in 1796. As a result, this historic town has both a rich past and picturesque attractions to explore. Its historic downtown is located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains and has walking tours for many of its historic buildings, such as the 1835 Chester Inn. However, the town is most known as being a center of classic American storytelling, which you can experience firsthand at the International Storytelling Center. Visit during October for the National Storytelling Festival to experience all manner of tales.

For outdoor lovers, there is plenty to explore in Jonesborough, ranging from the Wetlands Water Park to the Brights Zoo, which has several rare and endangered animals, including the addax and scimitar-horned oryx. Before you leave town, try out some spirits at the Tennessee Hills Distillery.

Lynchburg

In south-central Tennessee, Lynchburg prides itself on its hospitality, good whisky, and great vibes. It was first settled in the early 1800s, and its history is palpable throughout. Today, the most famous landmark in the city is the Jack Daniels Distillery, the oldest distillery in the United States, making it a must-visit for whisky connoisseurs. For more history, one can spend time in the Lynchburg Historic District, featuring the 1885 Moore County Courthouse, 1893 Old Jail Museum, and more. Both showcase beauty in unique ways, from a rustic jail to intricate courtrooms that transport one to a bygone era.

Apart from the landmarks, visitors can see old town souvenirs and memorabilia at Jack Daniel's Lynchburg Hardware and General Store or take a buggy tour through town with C & R Buggy Tours. Lastly, you can indulge your sweet tooth with some locally owned candy shops in town, like Velma's Candy or Lynchburg Cake and Candy Co.

Greeneville

Named after the American Revolutionary War General Nathanael Greene, this historic town was first settled in 1780 in what was then part of North Carolina. The town's most famous resident was Andrew Johnson, who served briefly as vice president under Abraham Lincoln and became president when Lincoln was assassinated in 1865. Those interested can visit his humble family home at the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site, showcasing many items from his youth. Similarly, for a more broad learning experience about this small town, check out the Greeneville Greene County History Museum.

The town is no slacker when it comes to natural wonders, including the picturesque Margarette Falls, a 60-foot waterfall you can hike to. For a more vibrant take on Tennessee’s beauty, opt for the Buffalo Trail Orchard, which provides apples, blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries for you to pick.

Cookeville

This town of just under 36,000 people was first founded in 1842 but wasn't officially confirmed as Putnam County until 1854. Today, Cookeville is a charming mountain town with equal parts history and beautiful landscapes to explore. Of note is the Cookeville Depot Museum, which has railway artifacts, memorabilia, and scale trains that enthusiasts adore. Other hotspots include the Muddy Pond Mennonite Community, the 1916 Post Office, and Putnam Courthouse Square.

In terms of outdoor scenery, Cookeville is within reach of not one but a dozen waterfalls, including Piney Creek Falls, Cane Creek Cascades, Sting Fork Falls, and more. Many state parks in the area have waterfalls and trails alike, such as Burgess Falls State Park, Rock Island State Park, and Fall Creek Falls State Park.

Leiper's Fork

This village of around 650 people is an idyllic place renowned for old-school American charm and unique attractions. Leiper's Fork runs along the Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile road built along ancient Native American routes and connects to the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail, which you can hike or ride on a horse to on the Garrison Creek Loop Trail. With panoramic viewpoints showcasing Tennessee’s beauty, it is a lovely trail for all tourists.

This village hides many secrets in its shops, including a Turquoise squash blossom necklace and stamped cocktail stirrers at the Tennessee Turquoise Company, moonshine at Leiper's Fork Distillery, and Leiper's Creek Gallery, an art gallery in a former gas station. Speaking of gas stations, Leiper's Fork Market is located in a gas station offering small-town hospitality with local beers, lunch food, and friendly folks.

Cumberland Gap

This town was first used as a pathway through the Appalachian Mountains by Native Americans, and it later saw many settlers passing through, including the famous Daniel Boone. Cumberland Gap wasn't officially incorporated until 1907, but since then, it has become a center for outdoor enthusiasts. There are more than 80 miles of trails in the area within the massive 20,500-acre Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. The most popular trails include the Tri-State Peak Trail, Ridge Trail, and Pinnacle Overlook Trail. Each boasts a new set of views, from towering peaks to lush forests. Cyclists will enjoy these trails and the Bicycle Museum in town, showcasing the engineering behind these simple machines. Cumberland Gap has many charming specialty shops, including Cumberland Gap Artists Co-op, Frame Shop & Gallery, Gertie's Commissary, and more.

Gatlinburg

Last but certainly not least, Gatlinburg is one of the best destinations in Tennessee. This town of 3,600 people sits at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the best national parks in the entire state. This national park boasts 522,000 acres of outdoor space featuring mountain trails, historic pioneer cabins, and large black bear populations that you can view from a safe distance within Cade's Cove. Of the many trails in the park, some of the best include Rainbow Falls, Clingman's Dome, Chimney Tops, and more.

There are many things to do in town, including Ripley's Mountain Coaster, Gatlinburg SkyPark, Gatlin's Mini Golf, and Ole Smoky Distillery, which offer excellent moonshine. If you want to get away from the downtown area, consider visiting one of the many artisans in town with the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, featuring over 80 artists and craftsmen. For more culture, plan your trip in August for the vibrant Gatlinburg Songwriter’s Festival.

Conclusion

These beautiful towns in Tennessee prove that if you want to see a state's true beauty, you have to get out of the big city and explore. Many of these towns are located within the Appalachian Mountains, which makes them ideal locations for a hike or just a drive through the countryside to appreciate beautiful views. You have a winning combination when you combine that with charming downtown areas with friendly locals. Consider adding these beautiful small towns to your travel plans this year or next.