First Methodist Church in Pulaski, Tennessee. Image credit JNix via Shutterstock

8 Must-Visit Small Towns in Tennessee

Tennessee is known for its majestic views, blissful hiking trails, and enticing outdoor experiences. There are plenty of small towns throughout the state that provide the exact ambiance tons of people are searching for. Anyone can explore the Great Smoky Mountains and the popular mountain town of Gatlinburg or try the freshest Jack Daniels in Lynchburg. There is something for everyone to enjoy in these must-visit small towns scattered throughout the Volunteer State.

Lynchburg

Downtown street in Lynchburg, Tennessee.
Downtown street in Lynchburg, Tennessee.

The Jack Daniels Distillery isn't the only thing Lynchburg is known for. For those who want a taste of that liquor, though, feel free to tour the world-famous area where some of the best whiskey is concocted. The Diamond Gusset Jean Company is a top-tier place to stop for a new pair of comfortable jeans in preparation for a long day of adventure. History buffs can head straight to Moore County Old Jail Museum for a tour. Moore County Courthouse was first opened for service in the 1800s as a great place to explore. Waking up in the Tolley House Bed and Breakfast is the perfect way to start each day, as it is one of the nicest bed and breakfasts in Tennessee.

Gatlinburg

Busy street in summertime with tourists and cars.
Busy street in summertime with tourists and cars in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Image credit Miro Vrlik Photography via Shutterstock.com

Going to Gatlinburg means it is time for an adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains. This is one of the most popular attractions in the city. There are places for people to walk, hike, jog, run, or bike to see some of the most unique views of the south. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is home to many underwater animals for visitors who appreciate the ocean and its vastness. Don't forget to visit the Gatlinburg SkyPark for a scenic overlook. Make memories by walking across the bridge there. The Greystone Lodge on the River is the perfect place to end the night after a long day of fun in Gatlinburg.

Columbia

Columbia, Tennessee town square
Columbia, Tennessee town square. Image credit Flickr user jdj150, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Going to a presidential museum is one of the best ways to learn about the history of the United States. Columbia provides guests this opportunity, thanks to the James K. Polk Home and Museum. Here, visitors can see some of President Polk's personal belongings and learn all about the 11th president. Bleu 32 Vintage Marketplace has some of the trendiest southern looks for any clothing collection. Historic Elm Springs is another museum where you can learn about the history of the Confederacy within the United States. Keeping these places alive and thriving is vital in making sure history isn't repeated.

Jonesborough

Aerial view of Tennessee's oldest town, Jonesborough and its courthouse
Overlooking Jonesborough, Tennessee and its courthouse.

The Great Smoky Mountains aren't the only mountains in Tennessee. In the Appalachian Mountains, Jonesborough sits there, awaiting curious tourists. The Jonesborough Repertory Theater is a great place to watch live shows and performances. Those wanting to enjoy whiskey should check out the Tennessee Hills Distillery in Jonesborough. The history of Jonesborough is told through the Chester Inn State Historic Site and Museum. It is the ideal place to bring anyone who wants to learn about the town since its start in 1779. The Jonesborough Bed and Breakfast is a great place to stay for the weekend with its home-like feel.

Pulaski

1909 Giles County courthouse, a historic landmark in Pulaski, Tennessee.
Giles County courthouse, a historic landmark in Pulaski, Tennessee.

South of Nashville and right before the border of Alabama, Pulaski is a town with much history to uncover and explore. The Giles County Courthouse was built in the 1850s, and still looks like a building many people would consider modern. Milky Way Farm has some of the best land in the south to grow crops and is another great place to visit and explore that hosts events. Anyone who enjoys looking at vintage churches will enjoy attending the Church of the Messiah, an Episcopal church. Rest at Miss Butler's Bed and Breakfast after seeing what Pulaski has to offer.

McMinnville

Fountain on the courthouse square in McMinnville, Tennessee.
Fountain on the courthouse square in McMinnville, Tennessee. Image credit Brian Stansberry - Own work, CC BY 4.0, File:Mcminnville-fountain-tn.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Those looking for an adrenaline rush will adore McMinnville, thanks to its proximity to Cumberland Caverns. This is home to caves that will make anyone's eyes pop. It's also easy to find a place to sit and relax in McMinnville, like Riverfront Park. Here, it is normal to relax and forget about stresses of the day-to-day in such a divine paradise-like environment. The Falcon Rest Mansion and Gardens is a great place for history buffs to explore due to how old the property is. It was first built in the 1800s and still holds the same southern charm it did when it first opened.

Hohenwald

Downtown Hohenwald, Tennessee.
Downtown Hohenwald, Tennessee. Image credit KFlanz, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

One of the most important explorers in American history, Meriweather Lewis, has a monument dedicated to him in Hohenwald. This area, the Meriweather Lewis Monument, is one of the most commonly visited places. This a great spot to learn more about his adventures. Another scenic part of Hohenwald is revealed when hiking along the Fall Hollow Trail until reaching the Fall Hollow Waterfall. End the day at the Thousand Trails Natchez Trace, a beautiful campground located in Hohenwald.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater, Tennessee: Historical section of the town.
Historical downtown Sweetwater, Tennessee. Image credit Dee Browning via Shutterstock.com

The Lost Sea is America's largest underground lake. It is calling anyone who's up for an adventure to come and visit it in Sweetwater. Here, explorers will take a boat out and go through different caverns until they reach the point where the lake is. The Sweetwater Heritage Museum is a fantastic destination to enjoy a relaxing day. This is where guests can learn details about the history of this small town in Tennessee. If the weather is nice outside, Duck Park is a pleasant locale to enjoy the great outdoors while escaping the realities of life.

It is abundantly clear that Tennessee is home to many special small towns. These eight provide some of the most undeniable Southern charm. The Lost Sea is the ideal destination to spend time underground while enjoying your daily life, while the Great Smoky Mountains near Gatlinburg are a big draw. Regardless, these must-visit small towns in Tennessee are incredible to visit at any time of year.

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