The Quiet Fishing Town In Tennessee That Seems Frozen In Time

Smithville, Tennessee is a sweet spot located about an hour outside of Nashville, and it's home to the stunning Center Hill Lake. We love this darling town, for the kind people and the good fishing. This town is meant for lazy afternoons spent with good people and on the water. The whole town follows that sentiment with a simpler and slower-paced life. It's almost as if time simply slowed down, and we all get to enjoy the beauty of it.

Smithville is beautiful, sweet, and small. With just over 5,000 folks living within the city bounds, it's pretty much the perfect size. We have plenty of small towns in Tennessee that are undeniably charming and make up the backbone of our great state. Smithville is no exception and is well worth visiting.

What's a small southern town without a water tower? The "Welcome to Smithville" verbiage may as well be welcoming you back in time. Visiting this town is like stepping back into a time capsule when life was simpler and southern hospitality is on full display. We're sure the scene has inspired a couple of solid country songs, don't you think?

With the exception of the telephone wires, Market Street looks as if it's been ripped from the 1800s. Smithville was founded in 1838, and the early DeKalb county seat looks as if it never wants to forget its roots. The downtown is perfect for a cup of coffee with the locals and shopping before you head out on the lake.

One of the most popular events in Smithville is the Smithville Fiddlers Jamboree, which is considered to be "The official festival for the state of Tennessee". It occurs every summer and transports some 50,000 people back to a simpler time. This is a big event that brings families and friends together to experience the timeless tunes of bluegrass music. This is always a well-attended event and a cherished Tennessee tradition so if you find yourself anywhere near in the summer when this annual celebration takes place make sure you head downtown.

There's even a banjo contest! There will certainly be some fun, laughter, and plenty of boot-scootin'. For more information about the Smithville Fiddlers Jamboree check out this video.

A trip to Smithville wouldn't be complete without taking a trip to the Center Hill Lake. This beautiful body of water is a great place to retreat to during those warm summer days, or really any time of the year.

If you have a boat then take it out for a spin and witness the sheer splendor of this Tennessee lake. There are eight commercial marinas at Center Hill Lake, which means it's not that difficult to get that boat out and about.

Boating, fishing, swimming, and sunbathing are all extremely popular at this middle Tennessee location. The DeKalb County stunner is a must during the summer...

...Or the fall, if you're looking to infuse your visit with a bit of pretty fall foliage.

The temperate climate and vast opportunity for recreation are bound to give you a reason to return again and again. Plus, can you imagine your sweet little ones learning to fish here? It's next to perfect if you ask us.

If all of this sounds perfect to you too then book a night stay at the Starry Night Lake House.

This waterside chalet has been updated with modern features and the location is stunning. This rental is the perfect place to bring your family and friends because you can comfortably accommodate 16 people. Take a step back in time and spend some time in this little and charming town in Tennessee.

Smithville, Tennessee is one place where we could see spending lots of lazy days.

The volunteer state is full of these charming little towns so make sure you check out these 12 small town getaways in Tennessee.