The Most Picturesque Towns In Tennessee

While Tennessee grabs headlines for famous cities like Nashville and Memphis, the state boasts a collection of adorable little towns that charm first-timers with their stunning natural scenery, down-to-earth Southern hospitality, and rich local character. Set against the picturesque backdrop of rolling hills, mountain ranges, winding rivers, and scenic lakes, these beautiful communities invite travelers to skip the hustle and bustle of the city for a front-row seat to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the South. Whether drawn to elaborate old-world architecture in downtown Jonesborough or the scenic overlooks that define Gatlinburg's outdoor scenery, these picturesque towns in Tennessee deliver postcard-perfect charm at every turn.

Pigeon Forge

This pretty mountain town in eastern Tennessee sits at the base of the Smoky Mountains, which provides a stunning backdrop for an array of thrilling tourist activities. An adrenaline-filled ride on the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster allows vacationers to appreciate the community's rich countryside scenery, with winding twists and turns through the virgin wilderness of the Smokies. Pigeon Forge is awash with amusement parks, promising day-long fun for the whole family. The Island in Pigeon Forge is a must-see for first-timers and offers an array of thrill rides, including a 200-foot Ferris Wheel that towers above the skyline and a colorful fountain show that comes to life in the dark of night.

Meanwhile, the Outdoor Gravity Park welcomes visitors for an unforgettable downhill adventure, featuring rolling down a 1,000-foot hill inside an inflatable ball with water that zigzags down the bumpy course.

Townsend

Tennessee's oldest town charms travelers with its well-preserved historic district, which stands out for the elaborate old-world architecture. Walking down Main Street feels like a journey back in time, with the rustic Chester Inn State Historic Site and Museum transporting guests back to the 18th century. This landmark inn maintains authentic furnishings and artifacts from the period, offering a glimpse of Tennessee in its infant years. Meanwhile, the Christopher Taylor House is a perfect example of pioneer architecture in the region, and features a modest, two-story log cabin constructed in the 1770s.

Beyond the quaint downtown district, tourists can head to Golden Oak Park for a feel of Jonesborough's outdoor splendor. This serene sanctuary is full of lush greenery, gentle trails, picnic spaces, and pristine ponds that invite you to slow down and reconnect with nature.

Smithville

Smithville lies on the relaxed shores of Center Hill Lake, boasting a soothing rural atmosphere that sets the stage for adorable aquatic activities. Several local marinas, including Hidden Harbor Marina, provide rental boats and pontoons that let you get on the water for a dramatic view of the town's natural beauty. However, you can take in the scenes while playing golf at the Smithville Golf Club. This 9-hole facility presents a serene escape surrounded by lush woodlands on rolling landscapes and spectacular views stretching into the horizon, perfect for golfers.

The annual Smithville Fiddlers Jamboree and Crafts Festival celebrates the region's Appalachian culture in a colorful way, drawing hundreds of Bluegrass musicians, craft vendors, artists, and locals for a vibrant outdoor festival.

Tellico Plains

Between its spellbinding waterfalls, lush forests, and scenic driveways, Tellico Plains is easily one of the most picturesque towns in Tennessee. The town attracts droves of roadtrippers looking to experience the Cherohala Skyway. Stretching 43 miles between Tellico Plains and Robbinsville, NC, this magnificent byway cuts through the untouched wilderness of the Cherokee National Forest. Tourists can make stops along the way to enjoy mountain overlooks, waterfall views, and hidden trails.

A hike through the rugged backcountry reveals a treasure trove of natural wonders, such as the Bald River Falls. Dropping 90 feet into the Tellico River, this awesome cascade provides the perfect escape for nature photographers. The beautiful waterway calls for thrilling rafting and tubing adventures down its winding course, courtesy of Big Bear Tubing Company.

Jonesborough

Tennessee's oldest town charms travelers with its well-preserved historic district, which stands out for the elaborate old-world architecture. Walking down Main Street feels like a journey back in time, with the rustic Chester Inn State Historic Site and Museum transporting guests back to the 18th century. This landmark inn maintains authentic furnishings and artifacts from the period, offering a glimpse of Tennessee in its infant years. Meanwhile, the Christopher Taylor House is a perfect example of pioneer architecture in the region, and features a modest, two-story log cabin constructed in the 1770s.

Beyond the quaint downtown district, tourists can head to Golden Oak Park for a feel of Jonesborough's outdoor splendor. This serene sanctuary is full of lush greenery, gentle trails, picnic spaces, and pristine ponds that invite you to slow down and reconnect with nature.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a popular jumping-off base for exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with many of its notable points of interest offering sweeping panoramas of the iconic national park. Many people relish the thrill of riding a glass elevator to the 400-foot observation deck at the Gatlinburg Space Needle, which culminates in a 360-degree perspective of the town and the Smoky Mountains. The same is true for the Gatlinburg SkyPark, where an open-air chairlift takes you to an overlook 1,800 feet above the mountains for a chance to walk along the country's longest pedestrian cable bridge.

Meanwhile, vacationers looking to up the ante can sign up for a thrilling ride on the Moonshine Mountain Coaster. These single and double coaster cars whizz through dense forest trains at top speeds to make for an adrenaline-inducing way of exploring the Smoky Mountains scenery.

Greeneville

This historic town in Greene County, named after the Revolutionary War general Nathanael Greene, turns heads with a stunning display of 19th-century architecture throughout its historic downtown district. The lovely neighborhood hosts the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site, which preserves the homes, gravesite, and tailor shop owned by America's 17th president, offering a glimpse of his early life. Also, the Dickson-Williams Mansion sports a classic red-brick construction dating back to the early 1800s. A house tour showcases original furnishings and antiques synonymous with the middle-class lifestyle of the time.

Tourists who enjoy the great outdoors can wear comfortable shoes for a mile-long hike through the Greeneville backcountry landscapes to Margarette Falls. This tranquil oasis features a multi-tier cascade that flows over a rockface and is surrounded by lush trees, presenting the ideal spot to be one with nature.

Morristown

Morristown boasts a panoramic outdoor scenery, punctuated by imposing peaks of the Appalachian Mountains and glistening waters of the Cherokee Reservoir and Holston River. This opens doors for unrivaled outdoor adventures, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding through the rugged 30-mile trail system inside Panther Creek State Park. The 1,400-acre reserve borders the Cherokee Lake, which fuels fishing, boating, and paddling activities. Elsewhere, scenic nature trails crisscross Cherokee Park, inviting vacationers for isolated hikers to discover the region's wildlife species and enjoy spectacular mountain views.

On the other hand, downtown Morristown impresses first-timers with the rustic facade and architecture of the Rose Center Museum. This 19th-century schoolhouse sports a vintage red-brick design and hosts art galleries, classes, and concerts, serving as an important cultural hub in Morristown.

Final Thought

From the mountainside charm of Townsend to the lakefront splendor of Smithville, these picturesque towns in Tennessee showcase the state’s most enchanting sides. Each boasts a unique blend of natural beauty, welcoming locals, and small-town character that’s hard to resist in the United States. Whether seeking outdoor adventure, peaceful retreats, or a glimpse into Tennessee’s rich heritage, these towns promise unforgettable experiences, while allowing you to skip the city crowds and discover the heart of the Volunteer State.