9 Small Towns in Tennessee Were Ranked Among US Favorites
America’s 15th most populous State, Tennessee is surely one of the key hubs of the Southeastern United States. And with its culturally rich history, splendid rivers and other waterways, warm climate, and a welcoming southern charm, the “Volunteer State”, and its wonderful small towns are great ways to get acquainted with the USA. Though larger cities may continue to be first of mind for many, these adorable and fascinating Tennessee towns contain all the beauty and intrigue of some of the very best of America. So get ready for a memorable trip through these true gems of Tennessee and the southern United States!
Kingston Springs
Just some 22 miles from the city of Nashville, the town of Kingston Springs is a wonderful day trip excursion. Situated along the Harpeth River and with warm winters and hot summers, visitors can expect a destination rich in outdoor activities with splendid natural surroundings. Indeed this community of nearly 3,000 inhabitants charms with its quaint and relaxing atmosphere, and guests can partake in such activities like hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, and jogging. Meanwhile one can even visit the weekly Farmers Market from May to August for some of the best in locally grown food or enjoy an authentic American cheeseburger at the Fillin’ Station restaurant.
Tiptonville
The seat of Lake County, Tiptonville lies right on the border with Missouri and Kentucky and is beautifully situated on both Reelfoot Lake and the mighty Mississippi River. Founded in the 1850s, this charming town is a popular retreat for outdoor lovers where many fun activities can be enjoyed. Try one’s hand at fishing, hiking, and cycling along the waterway, while at the Reelfoot Lake State Park or the Lake Isom National Wildlife Refuge, special views of local animals and plants are the highlight of any day. Meanwhile the history lover can appreciate Tiptonville’s role during the Civil War and visit the Battle of Island No. 10 Monument, commemorating an 1862 Union victory.
Germantown
Considered a suburb of Memphis, Germantown traces its roots to the 1820s when German pioneers settled in the area. Today the home to a population of just over 41,000 residents, this charming place is a great mix of modern living and traditional culture. Visitors can enjoy such events like the Germantown Festival (which celebrates local craftworkers and their art), and the Charity Horse Show, amongst other local festivals. And with Germantown’s beautiful green spaces and parks, even just a casual stroll through the downtown is always a scenic delight. Meanwhile visiting the historic Fort Germantown sheds insightful light on Tennessee’s role during the Civil War and the efforts of the Union Army to defend the nearby Memphis railroad.
Waverly
Established in the 1830s, the town of Waverly is one of Tennessee’s oldest and today is home to a modest population of just over 4,000 residents. Seat of Humphreys County and located along the Tennessee River, this charming place is full of natural allure and historic intrigue. A former hub of the Confederacy during the Civil War, visitors can explore such places like the Civil War Fort and Humphreys County Museum and the Johnson State Historic Park that explores not only the Civil War but other pivotal conflicts in American history. In addition nature enthusiasts can visit the Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge or even spend an afternoon at the Loretta Lynn Ranch and Campground where hiking, fishing, camping, canoeing and more can be enjoyed in a quaint and rustic atmosphere.
Dover
Dover is situated right on the Cumberland River and is just some 82 miles from the city of Nashville. A great day trip outing and with its hot summer and warm winter temperatures, visitors will be sure to find an exciting atmosphere in this charming small town. Enjoy time on the River, while at the nearby Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge opportunities to view waterfowl and marine plant life in their natural habitat make for a special outing. Meanwhile for the American history lover, visiting Fort Donelson and the National Battlefield Historic site is a must. Here the restored Fort and an array of preserved artillery canons bring guests back to the early days of the Civil War and Tennessee’s role as a part of the Confederacy.
Surgoinsville
Established by French Huguenot missionaries in the early 1800s, the small town of Surgoinsville continues to be a most charming and welcoming destination steeped in history and natural beauty. Located a short 90 minute drive from the city of Knoxville and situated along the Holston River, this eastern Tennessee town is a great place to enjoy quiet contemplation and welcoming hospitality. Enjoy opportunities for quiet walks, canoeing, jogging, and biking along the water’s edge, while a tour of several 19th century buildings is always a time travelling delight. And do not forget the fun and historic Fudge Farm for an authentic look into farming life in the 1800s. Built in 1812, this classic Colonial style building and museum is an informative and interactive excursion for the whole family.
Greeneville
Tennessee’s second oldest town (after Jonesborough), Greeneville was formally established in the 1780s. Today the home of nearly 15,500 residents, this historic locale near the Appalachian Mountains serves as the seat of Greene County and visitors can expect plenty of direct links to America’s past. Visit the fascinating historic district where several 18th and 19th century buildings still stand including the Hotel Brumley (1884), the Antrium Log Cabin (1800), and the Andrew Johnson Home (1851). In addition a number of splendid parks can be enjoyed in Greeneville, while festivals like the Greene County Fair or the Street Dance on Davis are fun outings for the young and old alike.
Tellico Plains
The town of Tellico Plains is situated within the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains and along the Tellico River, making it a most picturesque and quaint community. Home to just under 800 permanent residents (according to the 2020 census), this town near the Cherokee National Forest is an ideal place for those looking for a quiet and charming slice of small town USA. Enjoy such activities like fishing, hiking, strolling along the water’s edge, or even a game of golf in a leisurely and welcoming setting. Meanwhile tourists can spend an informative afternoon at the Charles Hall Museum, where the history of Native Americans and colonial pioneers are highlighted. With an extensive collection of artifacts and other memorabilia, this is surely one place no history lover will not want to miss out on.
Copperhill
Situated in southern Tennessee’s Polk County, Copperhill was founded in the 1890s in a region known as the Copper Basin. Home to a small populace of just under 500 inhabitants, this once important copper and acid production centre continues to be a charming place to enjoy small town life and the outdoors. Spend time at the nearby Ocoee River, where activities like biking, hiking, and even whitewater rafting can all be enjoyed. Meanwhile an afternoon at the Gee Creek Wilderness (which forms part of the Cherokee National Forest) is a great way to encounter a beautiful variety of mountain plants and wildlife. And at the end of the day why not cool off with a stop at Buck Bald Brewing? Here some of the best in American and other local beers can be sampled.
Also known as the “Volunteer State”, Tennessee is one of the southeastern United States’ most beautiful places to discover. Full of rich history and stunning natural wonders, a visit to the State and its adorable small towns are indeed a must for anyone with an interest in true Americana. From the historic streets of Greeneville to the relaxing vibe of Kingston Springs and beyond, these wonderful small Tennessee towns stand out as some of the very best in the region. And with loads of charming hospitality, fascinating stories of the past, and wondrous waterways to explore, there is always a reason to want to experience Tennessee and its towns first hand.
