Small towns in Tennessee are incredibly special to those who are from the Volunteer State and even those who are simply visiting. You’re bound to be greeted with pure southern hospitality and grace, not to mention some of the best food and truly iconic American history. From East to West, there’s plenty for everyone in these cute towns in Tennessee.

1. Kingston Springs
Kingston Springs, TN 37082, USA
Brent Moore - Flickr
Kingston Springs can be found just 30 minutes to the west of Nashville, Tennessee, and it's perfectly situated at a bend in the Harpeth River. You can canoe and kayak along the water or indulge in a meal at the Fillin' Station. When you visit, be sure to visit the unique tunnel in Tennessee found there.
2. Columbia
Columbia, TN 38401, USA
Visit Columbia, TN - Facebook
Columbia has had a glow-up in recent years, both in its suburban-style neighborhoods and darling downtown. Muletown Coffee is one of the best spots to stop for coffee, and you can even enjoy an afternoon learning about local history at the James K. Polk Ancestral Home. Learn more about one of the more walkable small towns in Tennessee, and then go visit!
3. Lynnville
Lynnville, TN 38472, USA
Lynnville, TN - Facebook
Lynnville is perfect for shopping downtown! Soda Pop Junction may be the most popular local spot for its great burgers and sandwiches, and you don't want to skip out on wine tasting at Lexington Vineyard and Winery. Start planning your trip to one of the best small towns in Tennessee.

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4. Linden
Linden, TN 37096, USA
cmh2315fl - Flickr
If you love the great outdoors then you'll want to make a beeline to Linden, Tennessee. It's located along the Buffalo River and is known for being a whopping 125 miles long. Mousetail Landing State Park is the perfect home base for camping and hiking. Be sure to check out the Commodore Hotel and Music Cafe when you visit.
5. Lynchburg
Lynchburg Tennessee - Facebook
Lynchburg may be best known as the home of the Jack Daniel's Distillery, but it's also where you'll find Tims Ford State Park and its 6.5 miles of hiking trails. Make sure you stop by Miss Mary Bobo's for a country dining experience, and the downtown is perfect for an afternoon stroll. This truly is one of the most charming small towns in Tennessee.
6. Johnson City
James Blucher III - Flickr
Johnson City is an east Tennessee dream, known for its proximity to the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Appalachian Trail. The downtown area is great for snacking and a solid lunch, and it's also highly recommended to stop by Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site to learn a bit more about the geographical region. Read more about this charming East Tennessee town, and then start planning your visit.
7. Leiper's Fork
Leipers Fork, TN 37064, USA
Visit Leipers Fork TN - Facebook
The city of Franklin, Tennessee is well-known across the nation, and the small town of Leiper's Fork is located in the countryside just outside of it. Come for antique and art shopping, and don't miss out on a meal and live music at the original Puckett's. Learn more about this sweet rural Tennessee town, and then go pay it a visit.

How many of these small towns in Tennessee have you visited? We’re consistently surprised and enthralled by the beauty of Tennessee’s smallest cities, and these seven may just be some of the best.

PS: Some Of The Best Fall Colors In Tennessee Can Be Found At The Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park!

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Jessica Bohl | September 16, 2022

What are some cool small towns in Tennessee?

Small towns in Tennessee are beautiful and charming. But many are also pretty cool. For instance, check out Bell Buckle. It’s a tiny town of less than 600 people, but it has a big personality. Host to the RC Cola and Moon Pie Festival, it’s definitely a cool place to visit. For a cheeky Tennessee town, head to the small town of Paris where there is even an exact replica of the Eiffel Tower! If you love antiques and Amish pie, head to Nolensville. This cool town just outside of Nashville has a lot to offer for a small town!

What are some great small towns in Tennessee to live?

Tennessee is full of amazing small towns that are perfect to raise a family. So chances are that if you have your eye on a small Tennessee town, it’s also a great place to live. Tellico Plains is known as one of the most beautiful towns in Tennessee. Near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this town has amazing views, and as a bonus, affordable homes. Pulaski is great for families because it has an excellent school system and lovely downtown area. For people wanting a quieter, rural area to call home, be sure to check out the tiny town of Walland.

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