Posted in Tennessee Attractions, Sights & Landmarks December 16, 2022 by

Here Are The Oldest Towns In Tennessee… And They’re Loaded With History

Wondering what the oldest town in Tennessee is? Well, that can be a complicated answer.

Tennessee is a proud lil’ state, and for good reason. We have a lot of spunk, a ton of class, and LOTS of character. We’re a southern state that gives you a good time, and our past is rooted in good American history – that’s why we’ve found some spots that have been there since the get-go.

We’ve found the 10 oldest incorporated towns in Tennessee. It’s necessary to pull from this date, as conflicting historical data and solid word-of-mouth can skew hard city data. So, we did it – we came down hard and found the oldest cities in Tennessee, according to state data. Curious if your town made it? Take a look!

10. Franklin - 1799
Ichabod / Wikipedia
The gem of Williamson County, Franklin is a Nashville suburb with a cute downtown and a high price point. You've got to be making a pretty penny to make your home on the rolling, green hills of one of the oldest cities in Tennessee. Learn more about why Franklin deserves a visit.
Franklin, TN, USA
9. Elizabethton - 1799
Bee Cliff River Slob / Wikipedia
Historically significant due to the Watauga Association, Transylvania Purchase, and multiple battles fought in the immediate area, we're surprised it isn't higher up the list or even the oldest city in Tennessee. Elizabethton is also great for antique shopping in Tennessee.
Elizabethton, TN, USA
8. Dandridge - 1799
Brian Stansberry / Wikipedia
Known as the second oldest town in Tennessee by the prideful many (if we weren't going by incorporation date, it would be!), Dandridge is a huge draw for those looking to experience the beautiful reality of the Tennessee landscape and the kindness of its citizens. Here are some more reasons to visit Dandridge.
Dandridge, TN, USA
7. Rutledge - 1797
Brian Stansberry / Wikipedia
Named for General George Rutledge, this is a teensy-tiny town. Although there are hardly more than 1,100 living within city limits, the town makes up for it with a whole lot of character. Stop in for some great BBQ at Rutledge's Down Home Restaurant and Catering.
Rutledge, TN 37861, USA
6. Springfield - 1796
Ichabod / Wikipedia
There are less than 17,000 people that inhabit Springfield, located north of the capital city. One of the oldest cities in Tennessee, its historic downtown is darling and the surrounding land gorgeous. If you find yourself in Springfield in the fall, check out the corn maze at Honeysuckle Hill Farm.
Springfield, TN 37172, USA
5. Sevierville - 1795
Brian Stansberry / Wikipedia
Known for being the birthplace of Dolly Parton, Sevierville has made a name for itself with its position as one of the oldest towns in Tennessee and a solid hot spot for tourists. Looking for some unique shopping? Check out Sevierville's Smoky Mountain Knife Works.
Sevierville, TN, USA
4. Maryville - 1795
Brian Stansberry / Wikipedia
Here we have a shot of the skyline, with beautiful Greenbelt Park in the foreground. This darling town is very close to all popular east Tennessee tourist spots, like Dollywood and Gatlinburg. Check out the unique Capitol Theatre Coffee and Ice Cream Parlor while you are in town.
Maryville, TN, USA
3. Greeneville - 1795
Casey Nicholson / Wikipedia
Named after war hero Nathanael Greene, this is one of the oldest towns in Tennessee and it's the only one in the US called "Greeneville" that spells it with an "e" right there in the middle. It was also the capital of the state of Franklin, short-lived as it was. Learn more about how to plan out a weekend in Greeneville.
Greeneville, TN, USA
2. Knoxville - 1791
Nathan Fortner / Wikipedia
This big city to the east has come to be known for its fantastic college, granola-crunching population, and proximity to the gorgeous Great Smoky Mountains. And it just so happens to be the oldest city in Tennessee. Speaking of old things, check out these historic landmarks in Knoxville.
Knoxville, TN, USA
1. Jonesborough - 1779
Brian Stansberry / Wikipedia
Jonesborough is loud and proud when it comes to being the oldest town in Tennessee. It was founded 17 years before statehood and was actually named after a North Carolina legislator, Willie Jones. They host the wildly popular National Storytelling Festival as well as Jonesborough Days. Get more details on the history of Jonesborough.
Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA

What did you think are the oldest towns in Tennessee? Let us know in the comments!

Some towns aren’t as old as they look. Check out these old-fashioned towns in Tennessee.

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Tennessee History

December 21, 2022
Rachel Raimondi

What are the oldest attractions in Tennessee?

Now that we know what the oldest town in Tennessee is, let’s take a look at some of the oldest attractions in Tennessee.

Graceland: Built in 1939, this 14-acre estate was once home to rock legend Elvis Presley. He moved here in 1957 and today, you can take a tour here.

James K. Polk House: Located in Columbia, the 11th president called this Federal-style home from 1819 until 1824. Tours are available to the public.

Tennessee State Capitol: Located in Nashville, this Greek Revival was built in the mid-1800s. Today, it is widely considered to be haunted. Take a tour and decide for yourself!

What is Tennessee known for?

Founded in 1796, Tennessee is known for a lot of things. Check these out:

Whiskey: One of the best places to sip whiskey in the U.S., there are a ton of distilleries in Tennessee to visit and experience a tasting.

Caves: Although other states like New Mexico, Louisiana, and Virginia get all the credit for caves, Tennessee has more than 10,000 caves within its borders — and you can even visit many of them!

Nashville: The capital of the state is well known across the U.S. for its connection to music, both through its venues and establishments like the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame. No wonder it’s one of the most-visited cities in the country.

What are the most thrilling attractions in Tennessee?

There is a lot of fun to be had in the Volunteer State. Check out some of the most thrilling attractions in Tennessee:

Rafting: With over 50,000 miles of rivers and more than 1,000 lakes in its boundaries, there are plenty of places to ride rapids or float in Tennessee. Some of the most notable bodies of water are the Ocoee River, Pigeon River, and Hiwassee River.

Dollywood: Located in Pigeon Forge, this 150-acre amusement park is dedicated (and owned) by none other than country superstar Dolly Parton. There are over 50 rides as well as shows, a train, and much more.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Located in both North Carolina and Tennessee, this 522,427-acre park offers tons of adventure with over 800 miles of hiking as well as camping, fishing, bicycling, and horseback riding opportunities.