6 Most Vibrant Towns in Tennessee

In Tennessee, the soul and spirit of American music burns bright with some of the best country and blues the world over. When you think of those genres, Tennessee cities Nashville and Memphis should be two of the first you think of. The state is also blessed with the beauty of its countryside, like the Great Smoky Mountains or the peacefulness of the sprawling pockets of thick forests.

Almost 7 million people call the landlocked state their home, living their lives in countless interesting and beautiful towns. When you come to see these six vibrant towns, you will see why Tennessee’s slogan is “America at Its Best.”

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, with its charm and atmosphere, serves as the perfect castoff point into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This park is frequented by more visitors than any other national park in America. It overflows with gorgeous forests, imposing hillsides, and tons of hiking paths. Lots of this is within a stone's throw away from Gatlinburg.

The town has a booming artistic community, too. Hidden away a bit from busy roads, you can find the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community. It is an 8-mile loop where some hundred artists and artisans ply their trade, creating and selling their crafts.

Fancy a strong drink? This is not any old drink either; it is moonshine. From the town's earliest days when pioneers first made homes amidst the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg has nurtured a bond with moonshine.

Back in the present, visitors can take a peek into the age-old tradition at local distilleries. Places like the Smoky Moonshine Distillery give folks a taste of history with tours and different moonshine tastings to try out.

Sweetwater

There is something vast and mysterious near Sweetwater. Lost Sea, part of the Craighead Caverns, is the country's biggest underground lake. To dive right into the experience, schedule a tour with Lost Sea Adventure to witness the enormity of the underground lake. Just don’t forget to pack your camera.

The heart of Sweetwater throbs with echoes from days gone by, owing to the presence of its Historic District. In the bustling core of Sweetwater's city center, a range of buildings reflecting late 19th-century to early 20th-century architectural styles are waiting to be discovered.

In the city's center, guests can find a local gem with lots of history, the Sweetwater Depot. The depot stands as a monument echoing days when locomotives were not just modes of transport but vital engines carrying both commerce and connectivity through the country.

Do not forget to join the party as Sweetwater rolls out the red carpet for its yearly National Muscadine Festival, a grand homage to the region's muscadine grape. Expect everything from festive parades and toe-tapping live tunes to great food dished out by local food merchants paired with mouth-watering muscadine wine.

Pigeon Forge

In Pigeon Forge, the lush peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains burn a bright green under the beautiful Tennessee sun. The distinctive town name comes from a mix of regional history and topography - a union of the Little Pigeon River and an iron foundry established by Isaac Love in the 1820s.

But first off, you cannot mention Pigeon Forge without thinking of Dolly Parton. This town is the birthplace of Dollywood, the acclaimed Appalachian-oriented theme park that belongs to the country music icon. The amusement park boasts a blend of traditional roller coasters, water-themed delights, and a variety of concerts and live stage performances.

In a bit of a quirky and random turn, Pigeon Forte is also home to the Titanic Museum Attraction, one of the world's largest museums dedicated to the Titanic. Mimicking the look of the real vessel's form, this exhibit hall houses over 400 artifacts and has engaging attractions.

Pigeon Forge is also perfect for looking into the world of culinary delights and southern hospitality. It is chock-full of eateries providing comforts such as savory biscuits drowned in gravy, authentic barbecue, and hearty country-style feast spreads.

Greeneville

There are a lot of things that will strike you as historic as you walk through Greeneville. A plethora of older structures in Greeneville have been preserved or rehabilitated. Chief among them is the Dickson-Williams Mansion, a great representation of Federal-style architecture, with its brown brick exterior and solid white tall staircases leading to the front door.

Erected at the start of the 19th century, this grand mansion became a relevant site in the Civil War and welcomed esteemed figures such as presidents alongside Marquis de Lafayette and Henry Clay.

The 17th President of the United States, Andrew Johnson, began his humble life in Greeneville. His legacy is kept alive through the dedicated upkeep of both his residential abode and tailor shop under the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site, offering intriguing insights into this leader's journey.

For an unforgettable journey outside of town, visit Margarette Falls at Cherokee National Forest. This waterfall, possessing a natural fan shape and bearing an outstanding 60-foot drop, stands as one of the state's most stunning marvels. The trail to reach the site is just over a mile, and hikers are rewarded with fabulous views of the falls at the end.

Jonesborough

Even before Tennessee became a state, Jonesborough was already thriving. Established in 1779, it holds the honor of being Tennessee's oldest settlement. With such a rich background, it is only natural the town needs a place to keep all its stories.

Enter the Chester Inn State Historic Site and Museum. Constructed in 1797, this old inn serves as a museum teaching about the past and history of Jonesborough. Just look for the huge front porch and the multiple chimneys on top.

Jonesborough enjoys prominence as the "World's Storytelling Capital." It holds the yearly National Storytelling Festival, an occasion celebrating the art of spoken narratives. Drawing attendees worldwide, the festival has been pivotal in both rejuvenating and championing America's storytelling tradition.

This legacy of storytelling is expanded on at the International Storytelling Center, located in Jonesborough. The center is committed to the craft of narrating tales, providing programs and learning opportunities throughout the year, and organizing the National Storytelling Festival.

Paris

If you do not have time for Paris, France, how about Paris, Tennessee? There is even an Eiffel Tower to check out. Sure, The Tennessee Tower is a smaller version, a 70-foot-fall replica of the original, but this way, you do not need to study a French language book.

Visitors looking for a bigger fish to fry should come back in April for the "World's Biggest Fish Fry,” a big part of Paris’ identity. It includes a grand parade, catfish races, a catfish eating contest, and, of course, lots of fried catfish.

After filling your belly with catfish, wander into the downtown area, with its classic courthouse square, rich with the history and heritage of Paris. The square is full of various shops, restaurants, and events that bring the community together.

Near Paris, the Paris Landing State Park lies on the western shores of Kentucky Lake. The park is a natural retreat and a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. So, if you feel like fishing, boating, or soaking up the hot sunshine, Paris Landing State Park is a winner.

In Conclusion

From Gatlinburg's moonshine to the storytelling traditions of Jonesborough, these towns are the essence of "America at Its Best." Whether exploring the Great Smoky Mountains, diving into the mysteries of the Lost Sea, or stuffing your face at the World's Biggest Fish Fry, a vivid variety is alive in Tennessee. So, if you come to Tennessee, make sure to drive out to see some of the best small, vibrant towns in the state.