10 Most Charming Small Towns In Tennessee

Tennessee is part of the American South, bounded to the east by the Appalachian Mountains and to the West by the Mississippi River. It is renowned for its natural beauty, as well as its extensive history, having been divided by the Civil War. Today, there are monuments to those times and the vast history of Tennessee, as well as unique cultural and natural destinations. Towns throughout the region are renowned for their Southern hospitality and distinctive charm. These 10 Tennessee towns are among the most charming in the state.

Jonesborough

Jonesborough charms visitors to the area thanks to its notable place in history. As the oldest town in Tennessee, there are many historic destinations to find. The Chester Inn Museum was built in 1797 and later became known as "the finest inn on the Western Frontier." Today, it serves as a museum displaying a diorama of the town from the 19th century and documenting the inn's lengthy history, with rooms restored to their original Victorian style.

You can also find the Christopher Taylor House, a log house first built in 1777 and once inhabited by future President Andrew Jackson. The log house was moved to its current location in 1974. Outside of history, travelers and visitors love to stop in at the Jonesborough Repertory Theatre, which puts on live performances ranging from "And Then There Were None" to "A Christmas Carol." The town's history and culture are sure to delight visitors of all ages.

Gatlinburg

The town of Gatlinburg's charm emanates from the natural beauty surrounding it in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park is renowned worldwide for its natural beauty, stunning mountains, and diverse array of animal and plant life. Hiking and biking are available throughout the park, and anglers can cast their lines into the park's numerous streams. Outdoor enthusiasts seeking a genuine view of nature will want to head to Gatlinburg SkyPark. This unique destination features a charlift to Crockett Summit and a walk across the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America. If you're hungry, stop by Smoky Mountain Smash Restaurant for dinner.

These adventures can be easily followed by views of the surrounding mountains and hikes on nearby trails. Back in town, visitors can also stroll along the very walkable downtown area along the Parkway. A day can be spent wandering between downtown's many shops and dining options, with a stop at The Village Shops, which mirror a European plaza.

Franklin

Anyone seeking a beautiful town to visit will want to explore Franklin, which features the Franklin Walking Tour. This tour operator offers many options, but the Franklin Charm tour is particularly notable, as it reveals the town's history. During the tour, guests learn about the town's founding, its role in the Civil War, and its growth into the modern day. As far as historic structures go, one of the easiest to spot in town is the Williamson County Courthouse. This was the third courthouse to serve the county and was completed in 1858 in the Greek Revival style.

Visitors will delight in a walk along Main Street, where Federal and Art Deco facades complement buildings featuring Victorian architecture. Shops stretch along the lane, and those who enjoy a dip into the past and want to take something home for themselves will want to drop by the Winchester Antique Mall. For deeper insights into the Civil War-era Battle of Franklin, visit the Civil War Museum. Tours of the battlefield include seven stops that discuss the reasons behind the battle and its unfolding events.

Lynchburg

Yet another destination that charms through its historic nature is Lynchburg. Here, visitors can tour the Moore County Old Jail Museum, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In operation for almost a century, it tells the story of the town's past inmates and officers. The museum is within the Lynchburg Historic District, where visitors can find unique shops housed in buildings that reflect architecture from a century ago but restored for modern use.

A few restaurants also dot the area for visitors who want to dine while enjoying the district. Yet another historic destination, and one known by name to many, is the Jack Daniel's Distillery. The famed spirit was created in Lynchburg, and tours of the distillery discuss the history of the company's founder, Mr. Jack, as well as a review of the distillery process.

Townsend

Those who want to enjoy the peace and beauty of the outdoors will love Townsend, which acts as a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains. This town is a fantastic destination for those who love the outdoors. Visitors who want to hit the water will also want to visit River Rat Tubing and Rafting to participate in tubing adventures that launch onto the Little River for all-day journeys accompanied by unbeatable views of the Smoky Mountains.

Those seeking a genuine moment of peace will want to visit Dancing Bear Lodge, whether for dinner from their seasonal menu or a stay in their beautiful lodges, which combine rustic charm with elegance. For the wine lover, there is Cades Cove Cellars. The winery offers complimentary tastings without reservations and also provides the opportunity to observe the bottling line in operation. Locally made crafts and gifts are also available for sale on the grounds.

Bell Buckle

Bell Buckle is a small town that charms through its arts and crafts scene and historic downtown area. Visitors will want to attend the Webb Craft Show, where local artists sell a variety of handmade items, including textiles, jewelry, soap, woodworking, and more. Yet, at any time of year, visitors can enjoy its Historic Downtown area, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Buildings in this area retain their original Victorian style, having never been torn down, and today stand rejuvenated. A walk along its streets reveals delightful shops and places to dine, though it is best known for the numerous antique shops that fill the area.

After a day of crafts and antiquing, you can always enjoy a sunset at Bell Buckle Park. This small park retains its natural beauty, as well as sculptural works by nationally recognized artists Russ Faxon and Sherri Hunter.

Greeneville

Greeneville attracts visitors who enjoy a small-town vibe full of rich history, set against a view of the surrounding forest and Appalachian foothills and mountains. This town is home to the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site, which houses Andrew Johnson's homestead and his final resting place. The homestead is the most prominent historic site in town, and guests can see his Early Home, where he lived before and after his presidency. Just down the street, Andrew Johnson National Cemetery is a serene and impressive tribute to the 17th president.

The cemetery is home to several members of the Johnson family, but it also serves as a veteran cemetery, at the center of which a majestic obelisk stands atop Monument Hill. Moving away from such historic sites, you can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors along the Nolichucky River thanks to River Run Tubing. All the necessary gear is provided before you set out for a fun time on the lower river.

Rogersville

Yet another destination that boasts historic charm, Rogersville enjoys a well-preserved downtown that still features 18th- and 19th-century architecture. The town was first established in 1775, and today you can walk down Main Street, finding dining and shopping destinations built into these beautiful, classic buildings.

A notable nearby landmark is the Thomas Amis Historic Site. Thomas Amis settled the area, building a fort after which he added a store, distillery, forge, and more. His daughter, Mary, married Joseph Rogers, and the land given to them by her father became known as Rogersville. Amis' homestead is preserved today for visitors, including the mill, general store, and the actual homestead itself. And for those who want to spend part of their day along the nearby Holston River, the Surgoinsville River Front Park is a short drive away and offers walking trails along the water that include historic Civil War trail markers.

Columbia

One more destination known for its charming historic downtown is Columbia, which is, incredibly, nicknamed "Muletown." The heart of Columbia, the town square, sits beneath the iconic courthouse and is surrounded by shops, restaurants, breweries, and tap rooms. Visitors to the area will enjoy First Fridays, when live music is performed on the square, as well as in many of the surrounding shops. To really appreciate the spirit of the town, though, it is best to come on Mule Day. Celebrated since the 1840s, this multi-day livestock show features a parade through downtown.

If you are looking to escape to the outdoors and immerse yourself in nature, the nearby Duck River is a great spot to visit. On the edge of town, visitors can walk along the water at Riverwalk Park. Those who want to set out on the water will instead want to head to The River Rat's Canoe Rental for a river tour by kayak or canoe.

Paris

One of the most notable spots to visit in Tennessee is Paris. After all, what could be more charming than a stroll along Eiffel Tower Park? Of course, the park offers all the usual park amenities, including walking trails and picnic areas. However, the big claim to fame here is the 60-foot steel Eiffel Tower replica that makes this place so unique. Once you have finished admiring the tower, it is time for a trip to the Paris-Henry County Heritage Center. The center is located at Cavitt Place, a historic mansion featuring stunning lawns and elegant architecture. First built in 1916, it now depicts local history back to the town's founding days. Those heading out of town for a day outside will enjoy Paris Landing State Park, a 841-acre park and former steamboat landing where guests can walk near Kentucky Lake and head out onto the pier for a day of fishing.

Dayton

Dayton charms through a combination of its small-town vibes and historic nature. Among the most impressive structures in town is the Rhea County Courthouse. This courthouse occupies a pivotal place in history as the site of the famed Scopes Monkey Trial of 1925, a landmark case in American history. A museum dedicated to the trial can be found in the basement and features photos of those involved, along with a narrative of what happened.

If you want to head out of town and combine history and time outdoors, then the Cherokee Removal Memorial Park near Birchwood is just a short drive away. This designated site on the Trail of Tears was once the location of a Cherokee settlement. Today, visitors can learn about the events that occurred during that pivotal time in American history as the country expanded into Native American lands. For animal lovers, the Hiwassee Refuge is nearby. Covering 6,000 acres, it is home to migrating sandhill cranes and whooping cranes. The observation platform provides clear views of the surrounding bird flocks. Walkers in the area may also spot beavers, ground foxes, and other animals that call the refuge home.

Southern Charm On Display

The state of Tennessee is home to numerous natural wonders. Rivers like the Nolichucky River and Holston River make for popular boating and tubing destinations, and nearby, thousands of people enjoy hikes into the Smoky Mountains. And in towns throughout the state, people are welcomed to historic downtowns, iconic buildings, and busy main streets. When you come to Tennessee, consider one of these 10 towns as your next destination.