7 of the Most Walkable Towns in Tennessee
While the majority of the 126 million domestic travelers who visit Tennessee each year head to big city destinations like Nashville, Memphis, and Chattanooga, those in the know will spend time exploring some of this Southern state’s smaller communities. For these folks, Tennessee’s best small towns offer a truly authentic experience, boasting pretty much everything the bigger destinations have but without the crowds… and with everything within walking distance.
From the Appalachian Mountains in the east to the Mississippi River in the west, these communities offer a more intimate experience with well-preserved historic districts, picturesque main streets, and a wealth of local attractions that can be easily explored on foot. For ideas and inspiration, check out these seven of the most walkable towns in Tennessee.
Gatlinburg
Known as the "Gateway to the Smokies" for its location at the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the small mountain resort community of Gatlinburg is undoubtedly the most visited of the towns included on this list. All told, some 14 million Americans pass through every year, either here as a day trip from places like Atlanta or Charlotte, for weekend getaways, or even longer vacations, all of them using Gatlinburg as basecamp.
There’s plenty of stuff to do in Gatlinburg too, especially along Parkway, its main drag. Lined with attractions such as Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and the Gatlinburg Space Needle observation tower, as well as many shopping and dining experiences, most of the fun here is accessible on foot (it’s even possible to hike into the national park from town via the Gatlinburg Trail). Other great walking experiences are revealed with a gondola ride to the Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park & Ski Area, including the 700-foot-long Gatlinburg SkyBridge, North America’s longest pedestrian cable bridge.
Jonesborough
Located in northeastern Tennessee 90 minutes east of Knoxville, Jonesborough has the distinction of being Tennessee's oldest town. Founded in 1779, many of the town’s top attractions are easy to get to on foot from the downtown area, including the Chester Inn State Historic Site and Museum on Main Street, the oldest commercial building in town; the Jonesborough/Washington County History Museum just five minutes walk away; and the Jonesborough Repertory Theatre, literally across the road.
When done with all that downtown walking, check out the International Storytelling Center, home of the annual National Storytelling Festival, and nearby Cherokee National Forest with its mile-after-mile of hiking trails.
Leipers Fork
Just 30 miles southwest of Nashville, Leipers Fork makes for a great day trip from its much larger neighbor. Although more of a village than a town, Leipers Fork is immensely walkable, with its compact village center packed with character. Top attractions include a collection of art galleries showcasing local and regional artists, antique shops, and boutique stores housed in historic buildings, including the famous Puckett's, a unique mix of general store, restaurant, and music venue.
The village also hosts frequent live music performances, often featuring well-known American musicians. The surrounding countryside is also fun to explore, especially if the nearby Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile-long scenic route connecting Nashville with Natchez, Mississippi, is included.
Lynchburg
Just 75 miles southeast of Nashville, Lynchburg is another great day trip destination to consider as part of a Tennessee road trip. It’s also a place that fans of American whiskey will be familiar with. Home to the world-famous Jack Daniel's Distillery, this must-see attraction offers tours and tastings, making it a must-stop destination on the Tennessee Whiskey Trail.
Other points of interest include the Moore County Old Jail Museum, the Jack Daniel's Lynchburg Hardware & General Store, and various shops and restaurants around the picturesque town square, all within easy walking distance of one another.
Bell Buckle
The village-like community of Bell Buckle is in many ways the quintessential small Southern town. Immensely walkable, it’s perhaps best known for hosting the quirky RC Cola and Moon Pie Festival, an annual event drawing fans of these iconic treats from across the South and beyond. Although held in June, if you miss it, this charming town is well worth exploring at any time of year for its antique stores, art galleries, and craft shops, most housed in beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings.
Rest those weary feet awhile at The Bell Buckle Cafe, a Tennessee institution that’s famous for its mix of Southern cuisine and live bluegrass music.
Townsend
Townsend’s location in eastern Tennessee makes it another great base from which to explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Dubbed the "Peaceful Side of the Smokies" for its small size and laid-back atmosphere, the Townsend Historical Trail is a wonderful route to get around. Following the main road in and out of town for nearly five miles on either side of the highway, convenient underpasses allow trail users to switch between north and south sides to avoid traffic heading into the Smokies. Prefer cycling? The entirety of the route is bike-friendly, too.
Top attractions in Townsend include the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center with its displays relating to the area's cultural history, and the Little River Railroad and Lumber Museum. Outdoor activities are also a draw with plenty of hiking, fishing, and tubing excitement along the Little River.
Dandridge
As the second-oldest town in Tennessee, Dandridge deserves a visit. Founded in 1783 and named after Martha Dandridge Washington, George Washington’s wife and the country’s “first” First Lady, highlights of a stroll through town include seeing its well-preserved 18th-century architecture in its historic district. Spanning a few blocks along Main Street and Gay Street, it’s perfect for walking thanks to its wide, well-maintained sidewalks and crosswalks, making it easy and safe for pedestrians to explore.
Top attractions along the way include the Revolutionary War Graveyard, the 1820 Shepard Inn, and the Jefferson County Courthouse, built in 1845. Bush's Visitor Center, located just outside town, offers a quirky look at the history of this famous Tennessee bean brand.
The Final Word
These seven walkable towns in Tennessee each present visitors with plenty of great excuses to put on those comfy walking shoes. From the historic streets of Jonesborough and Dandridge to the Smokey Mountain retreats of Gatlinburg and Townsend, these awesome communities present visitors with no end of authentic Southern experiences. Whether you're interested in history, outdoor adventures, arts and crafts, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of small-town America, these seven walkable Tennessee towns offer something for everyone.
