9 Quintessential Tennessee Towns
Tennessee, a state woven with stories of music legends and civil war battles, comes alive in its small towns that are as enticing as any famous city. While places like Nashville and Chattanooga capture headlines, this exploration dives deep into the heart of Tennessee to uncover eight quintessential towns that offer more than just scenic beauty—they're living chapters of American history, innovation, and tradition.
Get ready to explore the birthplace of Jack Daniel's whiskey as well as the state's oldest town with tales stretching back to the American Revolution. Step off the beaten path and into the soul of Tennessee.
Jonesborough
Jonesborough, Tennessee's oldest town, is located in the northeastern part of the state, and was established in 1779. It's distinguished by its timeless architecture and deep roots in storytelling, hosting the annual National Storytelling Festival that draws visitors from across the nation.
Visitors to Jonesborough can explore the Jonesborough History Museum and the Chester Inn State Historic Site and Museum, which offer insights into the region’s rich heritage. Dining options include the historic Eureka Inn, known for its Southern cuisine, and the Main Street Café, which serves locally sourced dishes. For outdoor activities, visitors can stroll through Wetlands Water Park or the nearby Persimmon Ridge Park, which provide scenic spots for relaxation and leisure.
Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg, tucked comfortably in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, serves as a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The town is renowned for its breathtaking mountain views and its unique attraction, the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, which offers the SkyBridge — the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America.
Visitors to Gatlinburg have a variety of attractions to explore, such as Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, where one can walk through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks and other sea life. The Gatlinburg Space Needle provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Dining options include The Peddler Steakhouse, known for its custom-cut steaks, and Olde Towne Pancake House, a local favorite for breakfast. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby trails in the Great Smoky Mountains offer endless hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Franklin
Franklin, just south of Nashville, is famed for its pivotal role in the American Civil War, notably the Battle of Franklin in 1864. The town preserves this history through well-maintained sites and a vibrant community that values its heritage, exemplified by the annual "Dickens of a Christmas" event.
The Carnton Plantation serves as a key historical site, offering guided tours that reveal the impact of the Civil War on the area. Franklin Theatre, restored to its former glory, hosts live music and classic movies, reflecting the town’s rich cultural life. For dining, Gray's on Main offers creative Southern dishes in a three-story Victorian building, while Red Pony Restaurant provides upscale American cuisine. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor leisure at Pinkerton Park, which features scenic walking trails and picnic areas.
Cookeville
Cookeville is a regional hub for the Upper Cumberland region. It hosts Tennessee Tech University, which significantly contributes to the local economy and cultural scene. Cookeville's location at the intersection of I-40 and Highway 111 positions it as a convenient gateway to the Cumberland Plateau, providing easy access to outdoor recreational activities.
The town features several cultural attractions, such as the Cookeville History Museum, which offers exhibits on the area's development, and the Cookeville Depot Museum, located in a restored train depot that celebrates the region’s railroad history. For dining, Crawdaddy’s West Side Grill offers Cajun-inspired cuisine, while Seven Senses features locally sourced Southern dishes. Cane Creek Park is a popular destination for both residents and visitors, offering walking trails, a lake for fishing, and sports facilities. Additionally, Cookeville’s downtown area hosts events like the annual Fall FunFest, which brings live music, food, and craft vendors.
Leiper's Fork
Leiper's Fork is a small, rural village located in Williamson County, Tennessee, just southwest of Franklin. This community is noted for its commitment to preserving rural traditions and historic buildings, providing a glimpse into a slower-paced, countryside lifestyle. The village is part of the Natchez Trace Parkway.
The Lawnchair Theatre hosts outdoor movies and live music events, creating a communal atmosphere. Art enthusiasts can explore local galleries such as Leiper's Creek Gallery and Copper Fox Gallery, which feature works by regional artists. For dining, Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant serves as a local staple, offering southern comfort food alongside live music performances. The village also hosts occasional festivals like the Leiper's Fork Christmas Parade, which showcases the tight-knit community spirit and rural charm.
Columbia
Columbia, approximately 45 miles south of Nashville, is famously known as the "Mule Capital of the World," a title it celebrates during the annual Mule Day festival, an event that attracts thousands and features parades, contests, and shows. The town also takes pride in its rich agricultural heritage and vibrant historic district, which has been revitalized in recent years.
Columbia’s main square is lined with an array of boutiques, antique shops, and eateries, such as Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant, known for its Southern dishes and live music. The President James K. Polk Home & Museum offers a historical tour focused on the life of the 11th U.S. president. For outdoor activities, Ridley Park provides walking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds, catering to families and sports enthusiasts. Columbia also hosts the First Fridays event, which features local art, music, and food each month, drawing a lively crowd to the town center.
Lynchburg
Lynchburg is famously small yet globally recognized as the home of the Jack Daniel’s Distillery, the oldest registered distillery in the United States. This town, encapsulated by Moore County—which is ironically a dry county where the sale of liquor is prohibited—draws visitors from around the world eager to see where this iconic whiskey is made. Despite its global fame, Lynchburg maintains a quaint, tightly-knit community atmosphere.
Visitors to Lynchburg can tour the Jack Daniel’s Distillery, which offers a comprehensive look at the whiskey-making process, from mashing to maturation. Miss Mary Bobo's Boarding House Restaurant provides a unique dining experience with family-style meals and a history lesson about its former life as a boarding house. For those interested in more local history, the Moore County Old Jail Museum offers a peek into the past of this unique town. Lynchburg also hosts various seasonal festivals, such as the Jack Daniel’s World Championship Invitational Barbecue, attracting chefs and foodies alike.
Collierville
Collierville is located in the Memphis metropolitan area of Tennessee and stands out for its lovely town square, which has been voted the "Best Main Street" in America. This picturesque square is surrounded by restored buildings that date back to the town's early days, blending historic charm with modern amenities.
The town square is the heart of Collierville and hosts a variety of shops and eateries, such as the Silver Caboose Restaurant & Soda Fountain, known for its home-style cooking and classic desserts. The Morton Museum of Collierville History, located adjacent to the square, offers exhibits on local history, providing context to the town's development. For outdoor activities, H.W. Cox Park offers sports facilities and playgrounds, catering to families and sports enthusiasts alike.
In unveiling the heart and soul of Tennessee through its quintessential towns, we journey beyond the common tourist paths to discover locales brimming with character, heritage, and Southern charm. Each town, from the historic battlegrounds of Franklin to the serene peaks surrounding Gatlinburg, tells a story that’s as captivating as it is unique. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or culinary enthusiast, these towns offer a profound glimpse into the diverse tapestry that is Tennessee—inviting you to explore, learn, and connect with the enduring spirit of the Volunteer State.
