11 Easygoing Small Towns in Tennessee

Tennessee's picturesque natural scenery, from the misty peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains and the luxuriant growth in the Tennessee Valley to the glistening waters of the Mississippi River, provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxed vacation designed to slow your pace and soothe your spirit. Scattered throughout this diverse landscape are small towns that embody the state's trademark charm, complementing it with trademark Southern hospitality.

Whether desiring a quiet retreat filled with outdoor adventures in Dandridge or a stroll through historic streets in Jonesborough, these communities offer effortless enjoyment. Below are easygoing small towns in Tennessee where nonchalant days, pastoral beauty, and Southern warmth come together to create unforgettable, stress-free getaways.

Kingston

Kingston is a quiet community in east central Tennessee, located near Watts Bar Lake. It is rich in green natural spaces, inviting tourists to unwind at spots like Kingston City Park. This lakefront reserve enchants vacationers with magical water views, providing a tranquil environment for those who sit back and revel in nature. A 9-hole golfing challenge awaits amateur players at Lakeside Golf Course. This lovely property boasts well-groomed fairways and scenic natural surroundings, creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor moments.

Kingston welcomes history buffs to check out Tennessee frontier history at Fort Southwest Point. This pioneer-era fortress features a living history museum that provides a unique glimpse into early American history. Finally, culinary connoisseurs will be glad to sample something tasty from a local kitchen at Smokehouse Bar & Grill.

Rogersville

History, nature, and Southern charm combine in this Hawkins County community to guarantee a remarkable and relaxing tourist experience. Rogersville was settled in the 18th century and boasts a well-preserved historic district. The Hawkins County Courthouse is one of the state's oldest courthouses, built in 1836 and sporting a Federal architectural style with neoclassical details. Elsewhere, the Swift Museum serves as a hub for African American heritage education, showcasing heirlooms that document the community's rich history and experience.

A quintessential outdoor escape beckons travelers at Crockett Spring Park & Arboretum, an urban oasis in downtown Rogersville, featuring a fine display of dozens of tree species and tranquil trails for a leisurely stroll. Also, spare a few minutes to explore fine works of art by regional creatives at Local Artists Gallery.

Maryville

Maryville is a welcoming community in Blount County, boasting a family-friendly vibe and numerous exciting outdoor opportunities. Bicentennial Greenbelt Park, which sits in the heart of the town, has a magnetic effect on nature lovers. This 3-mile paved walkway attracts families looking to stroll, picnic, and relax under the shade. The Cades Cove Museum welcomes visitors to explore Maryville in its pioneer days, featuring a preserved log home with authentic furnishings and relics that depict life during that era.

Foothills Mall is a recognized shopping mecca and lifestyle center, home to over 70 stores and restaurants, including national brands like T.J. Maxx and JCPenney. Meanwhile, movie enthusiasts can watch the latest showtime films at AMC Foothills 12.

Columbia

This vibrant community in Maury County, located just south of Nashville, offers a delightful blend of historical, culinary, and shopping experiences. Columbia hosts a historic downtown district with numerous notable landmarks, including the President James K. Polk Home and Museum. This 1816 mansion preserves the memories of America's 11th president in his former private residence. The neighborhood is also home to several diners where you can taste delicious Southern eats. If you appreciate ambience and friendly service, the Bourbon Gospel presents the combination of the two, serving great food and cocktails.

Shoppers can find rusty treasures at Bleu 32 Vintage Marketplace, which offers 12,000 square feet of display space, with jewelry, clothing, antiques, and gift items for sale. Outdoor fun beckons adventurers at Chickasaw Trace Park, which spans 300 acres and offers bike trails, a boat ramp, hiking routes, and picnic shelters.

Jonesborough

This eastern Tennessee town draws tourists with its rich historical heritage, as it is the oldest community in the state. Jonesborough has an elaborate old town district with a cluster of vintage landmarks, highlighted by the Chester Inn State Historic Site and Museum. This 18th-century hotel has been transformed into a museum, currently showcasing diverse archives about the long history of Jonesborough. The International Storytelling Center is another interesting stop in downtown. The cultural hub promotes the art of storytelling by showcasing related exhibits and performances by critically acclaimed storytellers from around the world.

Guests can also find enthralling stage performances to watch at the Jonesborough Repertory Theatre, which boasts a year-round schedule of live shows by upcoming and established performers. However, breaching the downtown limits allows guests to savor serene natural settings like Persimmon Ridge Park, home to 130 acres of peaceful biking routes through lush woodlands.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a popular destination for families seeking memorable vacations, offering a range of fun activities suitable for all ages. The town lies in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains and boasts spectacular natural scenery. Guests enjoy the thrill of riding a chairlift to the Gatlinburg SkyPark for mesmerizing views of the city from a 1,800-foot vantage point. The Moonshine Mountain Coaster offers a unique way to discover the Smokies, taking tourists on heart-stopping coaster rides through a rugged wilderness at top speed.

Meanwhile, the Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies enchants wildlife enthusiasts with rare encounters with magnificent marine life. This state-of-the-art sanctuary brings visitors face-to-face with a diverse array of species, including sharks, penguins, stingrays, and sea turtles. Finally, wine enthusiasts can enjoy complimentary tastings of delicious local wines at Tennessee Homemade Wines.

Dandridge

Stunning lake scenery complements the small-town charm in this Jefferson County village, inviting tourists to take it all in, one step at a time. Dandridge lies on the shores of Douglas Lake, which fuels an array of fun water activities. Vacationers can rent a boat, pontoon, or jet ski at Swann's Marina for some fun on the beautiful lake. Another excellent way to let loose in the town is playing golf at the Dandridge Golf & Country Club. With 27 holes to conquer, intermediate and professional golfers can expect a worthy challenge.

Furthermore, the Bush's Visitor Center offers a glimpse into the rich history of the Bush family business through a collection of interactive exhibits. Lastly, those who care about local eats and drinks have plenty to try at Dandridge Brewing Company, which features a large selection of craft beers, sandwiches, steaks, and burgers.

Pigeon Forge

Amusement parks, quirky museums, and family-friendly theater draw thousands of tourists to this gem in eastern Tennessee. Pigeon Forge is a popular escape at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains with a string of world-class theme parks, including Dollywood. This Appalachian-themed thrill center boasts 50 rides, water slides, arcade games, and other forms of entertainment for the whole family. Dolly Parton's Stampede showcases unmissable live performances in a unique dinner hall that combines comedy, music, and animal shows to amuse all ages.

Visitors who don't mind a jolt of adrenaline can ride the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster and experience the Great Smoky Mountains. Finally, the Alcatraz East Crime Museum shares unique stories and artifacts about one of America's most notorious prisons and the hardened prisoners who have gone through its system over the years.

Pulaski

Pulaski is a historic town in south-central Tennessee, boasting a heritage that dates back to the early 19th century. It played a significant role during the Civil War and is home to notable markers related to the conflict, including the Sam Davis Memorial Museum. The venue preserves the memory of the Boy Hero of the Confederacy and shares the story of his execution by Union soldiers. The Historic Daly-Horne House invites visitors to explore the Victorian era inside the Queen Anne-style home of former notable residents, including Governor John C. Brown.

Pulaski also boasts a thriving performing arts scene, with guests reveling in top-class stage productions at the STAAR Theatre, featuring music, dance, opera, and drama. Additionally, wine lovers are welcome to try exceptional craft wines at Big Creek Winery.

Jefferson City

Jefferson City's rich natural surroundings make it one of the most easygoing small towns in Tennessee. It provides laid-back recreational activities at Cherokee Dam Park, including fishing, picnicking, hiking, and birdwatching along the shores of Cherokee Lake. Meanwhile, the Mossy Creek Wildlife Viewing Area provides a habitat for a thriving population of native birds, inviting birders to explore its wetland trails for a glimpse of the various species.

The 1860s Glenmore Mansion is one of the most architecturally pleasing structures in the city, offering tours that transport you back to the Victorian era to experience its opulence. Also, don't finish your tour without tasting sumptuous local eats at Lisa's Country Kitchen.

Dyersburg

Dyersburg blends history, food, arts, and outdoor adventure to guarantee tourists a wonderful holiday. The town has a bustling culinary scene, offering delicious dishes at its many downtown restaurants, inviting foodies to sample Italian favorites at Moustos Pasta & Grill. The Main Street Dyersburg Farmers Market is the perfect place to meet the residents of Dyersburg as they sell their farm-fresh produce and artisanal items in a vibrant social environment.

Those who enjoy shopping will enjoy sorting through home decor items and fashion accessories at Dyersburg Mall. Outdoor adventurers can settle for rugged recreation like zip lining, camping, and off-roading at Bikini Bottoms Off-Road Park.

A Simple Trip In Tennessee

From the Great Smoky Mountains foothills in Pigeon Forge to the shores of Douglas Lake in Dandridge, these easygoing small towns in Tennessee welcome city dwellers to slow down for a restorative escape. Here, nature sets the pace as everyday stress fades into the background of the United States. Whether savoring local flavors, wandering scenic trails, or simply soaking in quiet moments, visitors find space to reconnect with what matters most and carry that renewed calm home for days to come.