First-timers to the great Southeastern state of Tennessee will undoubtedly want to head directly to Nashville. And who could blame them? The capital city is undoubtedly one of the most exciting in the region with its abundance of epic music history, top attractions, and exciting food scene that’s eclectic, delicious, and chock full of Southern charm.
But there’s so much more to Tennessee than the famed Music City—the state is full of small towns that are jam-packed with Southern sass and warm, welcoming hospitality; sensational Smoky mountain vibes and idyllic, laidback charm. Below are some of the best Tennessee towns for visitors looking to explore the Volunteer State beyond the bright lights of its bustling capital city.
Wine Trails And Wildlife Wonders In Tennessee
Hohenwald is the epitome of what makes Tennessee such a fun state. A small town with an eye for history, Hohenwald is just a little over an hour from Nashville—but it might as well be a million miles away. Stunning surroundings are undoubtedly its centerpiece; but a plethora of fun and unique attractions take Hohenwald beyond a simple scenic stop, making it both a fun road trip and a destination all its own.
- Take a trip to pachyderm paradise with a visit to The Elephant Sanctuary, the country’s largest refuge for African and Asian elephants
- Get your wine on! The Natchez Wine Trail is a great way to see the area while sipping and sampling some of the area’s best vino; it’s also a great way to see some of the most spectacular sights on the Natchez Trace Parkway, too
- Visit the Meriwether Lewis Site—and learn about the famous explorer’s place in Tennessee history. There’s also a paved trail for those who want a scenic trek through history
- Grab a bite at Lewis and Clark’s Restaurant and Lounge, home of The Wild Boar Pizza
- Pitch a tent and camp at the Natchez Trace RV Campground, or go beyond the ordinary with a stay at their Petite Retreats tiny house village
Tennessee’s Oldest Town Turns It Up
The town of Jonesborough may be small in size but it makes up for it with big fun and plenty of history. Also known as the “storytelling capital of the world,” Tennessee’s oldest town (established in 1779), is full of live music, fun finds, exciting events, and a picturesque Main Street perfect for strolling (or seeing on a carriage ride).
- Head back in time for a visit to the Chuckey Depot Museum to learn about the area’s storied railroad legacy and check out some cool RR architecture (including a restored caboose!)
- Stop in at The International Storytelling Center to see why the town got its nickname. The historic campus is a lovely place to explore, too. In October, be sure to come back and check out the National Storytelling Festival held here
- Summer is a fun time in Jonesborough as its downtown comes alive with live music weekly during their Music on the Square series
- Grab some delish Southern BBQ at the Jonesborough Barrel House
- Spend the night at the historic Eureka Inn on scenic Main Street
A River Town And Hidden Gem
Situated on the Cumberland River about an hour east of Nashville is the historic town of Granville, also known as “Tennessee’s Mayberry Town” for its idyllic, relaxed vibes—Andy and Opie would surely be right at home in this friendly, smalltown spot. However, there’s still plenty to do for those in the know—and the Sutton General Store is a good place to start.
- Grab a ticket and take a town tour: the Sutton General Store is the spot to snag a $5 ticket that grants admission to all of Granville’s historic buildings and museums
- The town tour includes highlights such as the Whiskey Decanter Museum, the I Love Lucy Museum, Pioneer Village, Sutton Historic Home, the Farm to Table Museum, and more
- Grab dinner and listen to some amazing Bluegrass Music every Saturday night at the Sutton Old Time Music Hour
- Spend the night at the scenic Wildwood Resort & Marina—visitors can even stay on a houseboat! And don’t forget to take a stroll along the longest boardwalk in Tennessee, catch some stellar live music, and grab a bite on the waterfront
It Takes A Village
The unincorporated Williamson County village of Leiper’s Fork puts the small in small town. With a population of less than 1,000, this super charming, down-home burg may be no bigger than a NYC block, but it definitely proves that good things come in small packages.
- Leiper’s Fork may be little but it still has its share of cute shops and galleries, such as the antique shop Serenite Maison; the artisan gallery The Copper Fox; and the cute spot Props Antiques
- Have an amazing dining experience filled with Country French Charm at the delightful 1892 Leiper’s Fork
- Stay the night at the charming Pot N’ Kettle Cottages
- Visit the nearby town of Franklin, another fun TN small town packed with fun things to see and do
The Home Of Jack Daniels
Though Lynchburg, Tennessee may be famous as being the home of the Jack Daniels Distillery, interestingly enough, its location in Moore County has designated it a dry county for over 100 years. But that’s just the least interesting thing about the lovely town of Lynchburg whose historic downtown is on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Even though Moore County is dry, you can still sip on a flight of whiskey during a Jack Daniels Distillery Tour, a cocktail at American Craft Distillers, and a wine tasting at Lynchburg Winery
- Get a taste of local history at the Old Jail Museum
- Check out some of Lynchburg’s downtown shops, including the Lynchburg Hardware & General Store, Jack Daniel’s Barrel Shop, and Velma’s Candy Store
- Have a great lunch with a side of Southern hospitality at Miss Mary Bobo’s Restaurant
- Spend the night at the charming Belle Fleur Cottage, situated on the banks of Mulberry Creek, and within walking distance of the town square
Nashville and Memphis are Tennessee’s most famous cities—and with good reason. Both are world-class tourist destinations with plenty to see and do. However, for those visitors looking to experience true Tennessee charm, the Volunteer State’s small towns are where it’s at. Quaint, lovely, and oh-so-scenic, these homey havens are waiting to welcome travelers with open arms into some of the best spots for down-home hospitality and Southern charm in the entire state.