7 Close-Knit Towns to Visit in the Mid-South

First impression: What seems best, a crowded cosmopolitan city or a close-knit community? It seems like an easy choice, and there is nowhere better than the Mid-South to find these delightful small towns. This informally-defined region of the country covers a number of states. Before it was called the Mid-South, however, this wide-reaching mass of land had been home to humans as long as 12,000 years ago. By around 1000 AD, indigenous cultures like the Mississippians were thriving here. Today, the Mid-South is an excellent choice for visitors; whether they are looking to explore the "Bourbon Capital of the World," visit Laundry Spring in Eureka Springs, or just enjoy the music scene, this region has something for everyone. So grab a map and let us narrow down the best of these small, close-knit towns in this otherwise massive region known as the Mid-South.

Bardstown, Kentucky

A small town with a tightly knit social fabric, the people here support local businesses and share a solid connection to Kentucky’s history. Bardstown is known as the Bourbon Capital of the World, so, naturally, it would be home to the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History. There, one can find rare whiskey-related artifacts or visit famous distilleries like Maker’s Mark and Heaven Hill. The tours offer a peek into the town’s 200-year-old bourbon legacy, but if you are interested in a tour, you will not soon forget it. Then, all aboard the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train. This train provides a sightseeing tour through the Kentucky countryside—and yes, passengers can enjoy a restaurant-style meal on board.

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

With only around 2,100 residents, this tight-knit community takes pride in preserving its heritage—everyone knows each other here. In fact, the Victorian architecture here is quite well-preserved by the townsfolk. Eureka Springs has a historic downtown where you can see various shops and historical landmarks like Laundry Spring and Lake Leatherwood City Park. As you would expect, the town was originally founded around natural springs, so the Basin Spring Bath House is still a gathering place where residents relax and socialize—a must-try for visitors. Do not forget about the town’s trolleys as you make your way through town to see the outdoor performances during The Great Passion Play in April.

Townsend, Tennessee

The small town of Townsend is quite a cozy one, with locals typically gathering along the Little River for fishing and tubing; it is a shared spot where people like to meet and relax. Wandering through the town, you will find the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, where the history of the Smoky Mountains is preserved. You can also check out the old artifacts on Appalachian life there. If you are still interested in places like the Townsend River Walk & Arboretum, be sure to visit the Little River Campground, where you can enjoy all the natural leisures with some added convenience.

Bell Buckle, Tennessee

Home to the Bell Buckle Café, this close-knit town keeps a population under 500 as it maintains its tradition of serving classic Southern comfort food in a community where residents know each other very well. Bell Buckle also hosts the annual Bell Buckle RC Cola and MoonPie Festival (third Saturday of every June), a fun local celebration that has kept things interesting for over 25 years. You can unwind at the Bell Buckle Park after exploring the town’s historic district. The entire downtown area is lined with Victorian-era buildings that have been seamlessly repurposed into shops and other small businesses.

Paducah, Kentucky

A town of art and culture, Paducah keeps its close-knit feel with its strong community ties. From artistic collaboration to cultural preservation, this town really shines, and visitors will immediately know why with a visit to the National Quilt Museum—known as Quilt City USA. There are historical floodwall murals that not only decorate the town but also depict Paducah’s history. Residents always support local artists, particularly at the Lower Town Arts and Music Festival, which is located near the A.I.R. Studio. And not to be overlooked is the Paducah Symphony Orchestra. The Carson Center is the go-to venue for those seeking a glimpse of Kentucky’s finest.

Jonesborough, Tennessee

Tennessee’s oldest town, Jonesborough, was founded in 1779, and its downtown area is known for its 18th-century architecture—still very well preserved. Traditional people live here, so you will find many lovely local events and customs here. Events like the National Storytelling Festival have put Jonesborough on the map as a storytelling hub, drawing locals and hosting visitors as well. You can visit the International Storytelling Center, but if you are looking for something else, the Jonesborough Repertory Theatre also injects a bit of culture into your visit. It is quite popular among residents, and performances here are frequent and regular.

Oxford, Mississippi

Though not the home of Oxford University, this town is closely connected to Ole Miss—the University of Mississippi. There is a rich literary history here, and locals take pride in Oxford being the hometown of William Faulkner. Rowan Oak, his preserved home, is a must-see landmark people can visit. Speaking of which, you can also pay a visit to the Ammadelle historical landmark, an Italianate mansion, before passing through Shaw Place—a historic property (now a museum) on Jackson Avenue. On that note, one can also visit the L.Q.C. Lamar House Museum before checking out the nearby William Faulkner Grave. Afterward, end the long day with a relaxing walk through Lake Patsy Dock Park.

Final Thoughts

There will always be a temptation to visit the big cities, the major capitals, and the designated hotspots, but there is a way to travel, and then there is a way to travel smart. With the Mid-South as the destination, you certainly have a leg up, but knowing the best places and figuring out the best things to do and sights to see there can be a bit tricky. Great things often come in small packages, and the small towns of Tennessee, Kentucky, and other Mid-Southern states will always have more to offer than even the biggest of cities—community.