9 Stunning Small Towns In Tennessee

Tennessee is an enticing destination for those who dream of a quiet vacation away from the chaotic scene and rowdy crowds in urban areas. Known for its rich natural landscapes, adorable country music culture, and fascinating war heritage, the Volunteer State is jam-packed with novel experiences for all its visitors. It offers plenty of options for a relaxed getaway, especially for those who decide to skip the big cities for the lesser-known rural towns. From the picturesque mountainscapes in Gatlinburg, set against the backdrop of the Smoky Mountains, to the rustic historic district of Jonesborough, reminding visitors of the state's intriguing beginnings, these stunning small towns in Tennessee bring out the best of this adorable Southern destination.

Greeneville

Named after the Revolutionary War hero Nathanael Greene, Greeneville's rich history predates its namesake. According to the Greeneville Greene County Historical Society Museum, the community was established in the 1780s. The building also exhibits over a dozen permanent galleries stacked with artifacts and relics depicting the community's chronology. While the town is adorned with historical markers at every turn, the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site is a must-visit. This vintage property preserves the former dwelling of America's 17th president. You can inspect his two homes, gravesite, and tailor shop to get a feel for his rich legacy.

Greeneville enjoys a vibrant art scene thanks to Tusculum University. The Niswonger Performing Arts Center lures enthusiasts with enthralling live productions in a state-of-the-art venue. It hosts a lineup of plays, comedies, concerts, and other events throughout the year.

Ripley

This tiny city in Lauderdale County is full of family-friendly fun and boasts beautiful outdoor spaces. It is home to Ripley City Park, which provides a suitable escape for extroverted visitors. This 50-acre refuge hosts a combination of walking trails, sports fields, tennis courts, pavilions, and volleyball courts for the public's amusement. The package comes with the Ripley City Pool, which promises diverse aquatic opportunities for visiting families. It is a popular summer hotspot with a lovely pool and waterslides, with lifeguards always on hand to ensure your safety.

Remember to sample Tennessee's trademark barbecue at Olympic Steakhouse. The diner serves a variety of steaks tailored to your taste, chicken, burgers, and other luscious flavors in a welcoming setting.

Bell Buckle

Less than 500 people call this Bedford County municipality home, lending it a classic small-town charm with a touch of Southern hospitality. Bell Buckle is a nice spot to shop for antique lovers, providing delightful locations like Livery Stable Antique Mall. This 10,000-square-foot facility hosts over 35 vendors and features a diverse selection of collectibles, antiques, primitives, and similar treasures. The Nationally Registered Bell Buckle Historic District is characterized by 19th-century homes and churches, transporting visitors to the past eras.

While exploring the downtown, pop into Bell Buckle Cafe for authentic Southern-style foods. This family-friendly eatery serves delicacies like smothered pork chops and chicken fingers in an old-fashioned setting. Every June, the townspeople gather in the urban square for the quirky RC Cola and Moon Pie Festival. This well-attended extravaganza honors two of the community's favorite eats and offers newcomers a hands-on experience of local heritage.

Jonesborough

Jonesborough is "Tennessee's Oldest Town" and an excellent stop for tourists who relish a riveting trip down memory lane. The small community traces its beginnings to the late 1770s and exudes rustic charm throughout its well-preserved historic downtown. A tour of the Chester Inn State Historic Site and Museum provides a vivid glimpse of the formative years. The building has been a mainstay in the city since its inception in 1779. It displays rare relics and memorabilia about its dynamic past.

The Jonesborough Repertory Theatre blends history and culture to entertain audiences. This cultural hub stages absorbing performances by talented singers, actors, dancers, and musicians from the region. Another point of interest worth visiting is Tennessee Hills Distillery. Established in the 1840s, this quaint facility welcomes first-timers to try authentic and innovative spirits as part of the Tennessee heritage experience.

Gatlinburg

An escape to the mountains beckons in one of the most beautiful towns in Tennessee, better known as a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Gatlinburg receives a steady stream of tourists around the year, who not only come to experience America's most toured national park but also local gems like Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. This ultra-modern facility exposes guests to rare underwater experiences, bringing them within touching distance of giant sea turtles, 12-foot sharks, cheeky penguins, and hundreds of other exotic marine life.

Gatlinburg's picturesque surroundings come into focus from the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook, where first-timers soak up unprecedented vistas of the Smoky Mountains and the downtown. But if you are feeling adventurous, you can climb 400 feet to the observation deck of the Gatlinburg Space Needle for sweeping panoramas of the area.

Townsend

Tourists who can't stand the choking crowds in Gatlinburg should consider setting base in this unassuming village, which offers a quieter and more laid-back gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Townsend harbors a mixture of history and outdoor adventures, and fans can explore the surroundings with Cades Cove Heritage Tours. This fun excursion leads guests to the iconic Cades Cove in the Smokies, where they can discover its stunning sights and rich history.

Alternatively, hop on two wheels for a jaunt along the rugged Vee Hollow Bike Trails. This 14-mile trail system is fun for all ages and showcases the unmatched beauty of Townsend's backcountry. If you don't plan to tour the park, you can learn about its heritage at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center. This resourceful venue exhibits galleries of artifacts highlighting the diverse cultures in the region.

Tellico Plains

This isolated village in Monroe County is surrounded by rugged natural landscapes and offers opportunities for endless adventure. Visitors take in its magical scenery from behind the wheel while driving along the Cherohala Skyway. This scenic byway stretches between Tellico Plains and Robbinsville, North Carolina, winding over a 5,400-foot elevation and features multiple overlooks, campsites, and trails. For those who prefer a more hands-on activity, hiking the Conasauga Falls Trail will come in handy. This moderately challenging walkway takes under an hour to complete and culminates in a gorgeous 30-foot waterfall.

But when tired and sore from the demanding outdoor immersion, you can opt for a more easygoing pursuit at the Charles Hall Museum. It offers a unique perspective of local history with its rich collection of artifacts, including archaic tools, Indian antiques, vintage guns, photographs, and more.

Lynchburg

If you are a fan of Jack Daniels whiskey, this small town in south-central Tennessee promises remarkable tasting opportunities as you explore its rich historical heritage. Lynchburg is home to the Jack Daniel's Distillery, which welcomes guests to witness the sophisticated process of creating the state's most famous alcoholic export. The facility has a museum with rare archives and memorabilia chronicling the brand's evolution. However, Lynchburg offers more than just Jack Daniels; it is also a fine destination for culinary enthusiasts. The town is also known for delicious barbecues, which you can savor at Barrel House BBQ. Some dishes on the menu include ribs, smoked sausage, pulled pork, and more.

Lynchburg's history comes alive at the Moore County Old Jail Museum. This rustic jailhouse dates back to 1893 and exhibits period clothing, wall hangings, and original jail cells, depicting history from a prisoner's perspective.

Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge has a little bit of something for everyone, from fun amusement centers and quirky museums to adrenaline-inducing thrills and lush natural surroundings. The Island in Pigeon Forge stands out among the many amusement parks. This world-class location offers everything from a 200-foot observation wheel and thrill rides to fountains and restaurants. The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster raises the stakes for thrill seekers with a heart-stopping ride through the dense forests of the Smoky Mountains.

Pigeon Forge is also known for its whimsical museums that attract famous of the odd and unusual. The Hollywood Wax Museum is an excellent example, showcasing wax doppelgangers of renowned TV stars and film celebrities. It is a unique experience for first-timers, with remarkable photo opportunities.

Final Thought

Tennessee's natural appeal, historical heritage, and cultural tapestry make it one of the most exciting destinations in the south of the United States. Beyond hosting the nation's most toured national park, it packs a punch of awesome little towns that promise travelers an unforgettable vacation. Between spending quality time with family in the amusement park of Pigeon Forge and enjoying samples of freshly crafted Jack Daniels in Lynchburg, these charming towns in Tennessee promise to leave you asking for more.