7 Small Towns In Tennessee That Are Full Of Charm And Perfect For A Weekend Escape

It’s no secret that Tennessee is one of the best states to visit if you’re looking for a classic small town that oozes charm and wholesome, southern hospitality. The only issue you’ll run into here in the Volunteer State is choosing which town to visit! That of course is why we’ve put together a list of seven small towns that are perfect for you to visit and enjoy, located across the state for ease of access.

Brent Moore - Flickr

Tullahoma is where you go if you're looking for a low-key, quiet, and charming historic experience in the heart of Tennessee. There's a waterfall hike to Short Springs not far out of town, and George Dickel Distillery makes fine whiskey right in town.

Davey Borden - Flickr

Gatlinburg is, of course, one of the most popular tourist towns in the state of Tennessee. It's known for its whitewater rafting opportunities, summer attractions, and large number of breweries and distilleries. It's a great spot to visit for kids with a series of museums and attractions on the main downtown strip, and there are plenty of cabins for rent in the mountains if you choose to stay for an extended period of time.

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Brent Moore - Flickr

Columbia is located just south of Nashville, Tennessee, and it's perhaps best known as "Mule Town" to locals. It's where you'll find a darling downtown experience, weeknight festivals, and even former president James K. Polk's former home, now a museum.

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GPA Photo Archive - Flickr

Cookeville is a favorite spot for folks looking to experience small-town Tennessee in all its glory. Expect a historic downtown strip, Cream City Ice Cream, and local workshops that teach you to make your own pottery or learn the art of blacksmithing.

Kathleen Tyler Conklin - Flickr

Paris, Tennessee is best known for its small replica of the Eiffel Tower, but it's also where you'll find the World's Biggest Fish Fry held every April. We'd recommend stopping by Paris Landing State Park, located right along Kentucky Lake, for an afternoon spent hiking or fishing.

GPA Photo Archive - Flickr

Jonesborough is known as "Tennessee's Oldest Town," and it stands up to its historic moniker. It's actually been a town since 20+ years before Tennessee was a state and is incredibly proud of its history. We'd recommend visiting the reportedly haunted Christopher Taylor House while you're in town, or come by for the annual International Storytelling Festival.

cmh2315fl - Flickr

Most folks are visiting Lynchburg for the Jack Daniel's Distillery, but it's also a great spot to wander through if you're looking for a historic downtown experience. The storefronts are eclectic and charming, and you can stop by Miss Mary Bobo's Boarding House if you get a bit peckish.

You can continue to explore all the beauty and fun found in Tennessee with a visit to Somerville, and we have all the details!