9 Of The Most Captivating Small Towns In Tennessee
If you have ever tuned into country music and wondered if Tennessee really is as charming as the songs suggest, it is time to pack your bags and find out for yourself. While the state is undoubtedly the birthplace of some of the biggest legends in music—think Dolly Parton—its small towns are not just about honky-tonk bars and good ol' boys. Tennessee is a geological wonderland, home to the Great Smoky Mountains, the most visited national park in the U.S., and the Cumberland Plateau, which stretches over 20,000 square miles.
It is also a state that has been shaped by history, from the Battle of Shiloh during the Civil War to the role it played in the Cherokee Trail of Tears. Beyond its geological wonders and historical significance, Tennessee's small towns offer a treasure trove of experiences, from local festivals to hiking trails and southern comfort food. If you are ready to swap your radio dial for the open road, Tennessee’s small towns are waiting for you to hit play, and these nine towns are just the destinations to start with.
Townsend
When you think of Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains probably come to mind, and there is no better way to experience this natural wonder than by first stopping in Townsend. With a population of around 500, this quiet town offers easy access to the Smokies, attracting adventurers and nature lovers alike. The Tuckaleechee Caverns, one of the state’s largest cave systems, is just a short drive from town, where visitors can explore winding tunnels and underground waterfalls. If hiking is more your speed, Townsend serves as a base for exploring over 850 miles of trails within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The Little River, just twenty minutes from town, is a favorite for those wanting to fish, tube, or simply relax along its banks. During the Townsend Heritage Festival, the town bursts to life with Appalachian music, crafts, and storytelling, offering you and your family a fun and informative look at local traditions. Lastly, with minimal light pollution, Townsend’s skies are perfect for stargazing, especially along the nearby Foothills Parkway.
Gatlinburg
As another Smoky Mountains town, Gatlinburg is a delightful combination of mountainous mystique and touristic fun, making it a premium stop for anyone craving a good blend of nature and entertainment. Sat at the feet of the Great Smoky Mountains, this charming town draws outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Whether you are hiking through misty mountain trails or skiing at Ober Gatlinburg, nature is always just mere steps away. Yet, what really sets Gatlinburg apart is its unapologetic embrace of quirky attractions—think Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, a haunted mansion, and the Wild Bear Falls Water Park. In this town, you can truly deliver the family vacation of a lifetime that your kids will talk about for years to come.
Of course, no visit would be complete without strolling down the iconic Parkway, lined with candy shops, moonshine distilleries, and the world-famous Gatlinburg SkyLift, where you can pay a small fee and be hoisted up to breathtaking views of the mountains. For those who enjoy a bit of local creativity, check out the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, where artisans still create the crafts that the region is known for. Gatlinburg is a town that proves you can have both adventure and amusement in one memorable visit.
Jonesborough
Tennessee’s oldest town, Jonesborough, has a population of just under 6,000, but its historical importance far exceeds its size. Founded in 1779, it served as Tennessee’s first capital until Nashville took over in 1843. Today, you can walk down its main street and find 19th-century buildings filled with antique shops, cafes like The Corner Cup, and art galleries. Jonesborough’s claim to fame, however, might just be its connection to storytelling. Home to the International Storytelling Center, it hosts the National Storytelling Festival every year during the first full weekend of October, drawing thousands of visitors to hear tales from around the world.
The town also supports a vibrant arts scene, including live performances at the Jonesborough Repertory Theatre. If you are longing for a taste of outdoor adventures, the Appalachian Trail is accessible several ways from town, offering breathtaking views and wildlife sightings. Surrounded by wineries, including Cherokee Hills Winery, just fifteen minutes from the town center, Jonesborough also invites you to unwind with local wine tastings. It is a great experience for couples looking for a weekend of alone time.
Lynchburg
Lynchburg, Tennessee, is famous for one thing: whiskey. It is the home of the Jack Daniel’s Distillery, where visitors can dive headfirst into the art of whiskey making through guided tours. However, this is not just a distillery; it is a piece of Tennessee history. The whiskey process itself is a local tradition, and the distillery hosts events year-round, drawing enthusiasts eager to taste the product that has been crafted in Lynchburg since 1866. The town is part of the Tennessee Whiskey Trail, a must-visit for anyone passionate about spirits. Although Lynchburg is a dry county (alcohol sales are restricted), Jack Daniel’s tour is the highlight, making the distillery a tourist magnet.
Additionally, suppose you are in town during the BBQ Competition hosted by Jack Daniels. In that case, you will experience a lively mix of music, food, and small-town Tennessee hospitality, making Lynchburg a surprisingly dynamic stop despite its size.
Tellico Plains
With a population not even reaching 1,000, Tellico Plains is an under-the-radar haven for nature lovers and those looking to escape into the great outdoors. This small town in the Smoky Mountains holds the title of "Gateway to the Cherohala Skyway," a 140-mile scenic drive that snakes through the Appalachian Mountains, granting you breathtaking views around every bend and only six miles from town. The town's extensive network of streams and creeks is a hotspot for relaxing walks and picnics, while Bald River Falls—a popular photo op—gives visitors a perfect view of nature’s power.
Kayakers and canoeists flock thirty minutes from town to the Tellico River’s cool, clear waters, especially those chasing trout, enjoying some of the best whitewater in the region. The town is also a favorite among motorcyclists who love the winding roads and stunning vistas along the Cherohala Skyway. Additionally, the Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center can give you insight into the area's natural wonders, granting you a deeper appreciation for the Appalachian landscape that surrounds them.
Pigeon Forge
If you are traveling to Pigeon Forge, get ready for family-friendly adventures, an endless list of attractions, and a surprising amount of history tucked into this small town. Pigeon Forge’s top draw is Dollywood, the iconic theme park founded by country music legend Dolly Parton, which attracts over three million visitors every year. For those looking to get their adrenaline pumping, the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is sure to deliver a thrilling ride through the surrounding hills.
The town’s connection to the Smoky Mountains goes beyond its amusement parks—it is steeped in early settler history, from farming to logging. Visitors are encouraged to make a stop in the Titanic Museum, a massive exhibit dedicated to the infamous ship, with interactive displays and historical artifacts. Not to mention, Pigeon Forge hosts popular gatherings like the National Quartet Convention, where music and arts take center stage. Of course, it goes without saying that Pigeon Forge is also an ideal starting point for hiking and wildlife watching in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Cookeville
Cookeville is a lively hub where university energy meets Appalachian outdoor adventure. This town’s pulse comes from Tennessee Technological University, which fuels a robust arts scene, including art exhibits, theater performances, and live music. The Cookeville History Museum, located downtown, is a must-see if you want to understand the town’s transformation from a railroad crossroads to its modern role as a regional center. Downtown Cookeville is full of surprises, with a blend of local shops, craft breweries, and restaurants like Father Tom’s Pub, serving everything from Southern comfort food to international dishes.
Nature enthusiasts should head just outside of town to Cummins Falls State Park, which features a 75-foot waterfall and miles of hiking trails. Plus, with being located on the Cumberland Plateau, Cookeville offers easy access to rock climbing, hiking, and the breathtaking Burgess Falls. Lastly, each year, the Annual Cookeville Food Truck Festival and Fall Market brings chefs and visitors together, showing off the area’s creative spirit, which is a real treat for foodies.
Madisonville
Madisonville should definitely be a part of your summer travel plans. The Monroe County Courthouse, built in the 1890s, is one of the most striking examples of Classical Revival architecture in the area and serves as the focal point of the town’s historic district. Madisonville is also a gateway to the Tellico Lake region, just thirteen miles from the town center, a perfect place for you and your family to enjoy afternoons of boating, fishing, or simply enjoying the views of the Appalachian foothills.
The town’s connection to Native American history is evident, with several nearby sites that once served as settlements for the Cherokee Nation. The town and surrounding area was actually once a Native American village named Tellico and served as the homeland of the Overhill Cherokee Tribe. The town is also situated on U.S. Route 411, an old highway that once played a key role in transportation through the Appalachian region.
Savannah
Savannah is packed with historical significance and outdoor charm. With its location right along the Tennessee River, this town is known for its crucial role in the Civil War, notably during the Battle of Shiloh, which took place just outside of town. History enthusiasts can explore the Shiloh National Military Park, nine miles north of town, to understand the pivotal moments of that battle better. Savannah’s historic district is full of antebellum homes and churches, many of which have been carefully preserved, giving visitors a taste of the town’s deep Southern roots.
The Tennessee River itself is a major draw, with plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports, and the town features several marinas for easy access to the water. It is an excellent destination for getting that much-needed waterfront fun without the crowds of popular beaches. Additionally, with its proximity to Pickwick Landing State Park, less than twenty minutes away, this town gives you even more chances for hiking, picnicking, and outdoor exploration. Finally, the annual Catfish Derby and RiverFest celebrates Savannah’s history and sense of community with live music, craft vendors, and, more southern food than you can handle.
Conclusion
From the rolling hills of East Tennessee to the hidden gems tucked away in the foothills of the Cumberland Plateau, the state’s small towns pack more punch than their size suggests. You can soak up the Appalachian culture in Jonesborough, hiking the Smokies from Townsend, or sampling Southern cuisine in Lynchburg. These towns may be small in population, but they are huge on character, brimming with history, local flavor, and plenty of things to do—whether you are into outdoor adventure, local festivals, or discovering quirky museums.
