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These 7 Towns Are Tennessee's Best-Kept Secret
Tennessee is often celebrated for its vibrant cities and stunning landscapes, but nestled within its rolling hills and winding backroads lie towns offering unique experiences just waiting to be uncovered. Take Jonesborough, for example, where the air hums with stories, especially during the National Storytelling Festival, showcasing the art of narrative in a town steeped in history. Or venture to Townsend, a tranquil haven known as the "quiet side of the Smokies," where outdoor adventures abound, from floating the Little River to exploring picturesque Cades Cove.
Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a foodie, these hidden gems promise unforgettable memories and a taste of authentic Southern hospitality. Get ready to dive head-first into the rich culture and beauty of these seven tiny Tennessee towns.
Lynchburg
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In the heart of Moore County, Lynchburg features a picturesque historic town square that serves as an unbeatable backdrop for a peaceful escape. The town is home to the renowned Jack Daniel Distillery, which began operations in the 1860s. Remarkably, it survived Prohibition by marketing itself as a "medicinal" whiskey distillery, making it a must-visit for whiskey lovers and history enthusiasts. Book a guided tour and tasting!
After your tour, satisfy your sweet tooth at Velma's Candy, where decadent wine truffles are crafted using wine from the nearby Lynchburg Winery. A stop at the Moore County Old Jail Museum, which housed inmates until 1990, reveals historical clothing and artifacts. As the day winds down, refuel at Barrel House BBQ, one of the state's top 5 BBQ joints. Finally, treat yourself to a unique stay at The Silos at Promise Manor, where you can spend the night in a grain bin that has been converted into a luxurious hotel room!
Jonesborough
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Nestled in the northeastern corner of Tennessee, Jonesborough is the state's oldest town, founded in 1779. Known as the "storytelling capital of the 海角社区," it proudly hosts the International Storytelling Center, which organizes the National Storytelling Festival every October, attracting enthusiasts from across the country. The charm of this historic town is enhanced by its lively atmosphere, with live music events held frequently, including Music on the Square every Friday during the warmer months.
A carriage ride with Old Town Horse and Carriage is a delightful way to take in the town's sights and historic buildings. Be sure to visit the Chester Inn Museum to learn about Jonesborough's rich history, where they even host a "History Happy Hour" every third Thursday of the month, making history engaging and enjoyable. After immersing yourself in the past, unwind with a local brew at Depot Street Brewing, where you can savor some of the best craft beers in the region.
Gatlinburg
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Gatlinburg, a lovely mountain town known as the "gateway to the Smoky Mountains," draws buckets of visitors from far and wide despite its population of just under 4,000. Set against the backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is a hub for outdoor fun and breathtaking scenery. One of the highlights is the Chondola, a scenic chairlift ride that takes you to Anakeesta Mountain, the town's premier mountain-top adventure park featuring various activities, including a thrilling roller coaster, shopping, and dining---all with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.
In winter, the Ober Mountain Aerial Tram transports guests to the Ober Gatlinburg Ski Area and Amusement Park, where skiing is the main attraction. During the summer, the park transforms with its exhilarating Alpine slide and roller coaster. Another high-elevation activity is Gatlinburg SkyBridge, which spans 680 feet across the valley below. Wow! Nature enthusiasts can also embark on a fishing outing with a guide from Smoky Mountain Angler or a hike on the national park's 800 miles of trail, with popular routes like Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome) and Laurel Falls just a stone's throw from the town.
Leipers Fork
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Located less than an hour's drive southwest of Nashville, Leipers Fork is an ideal, quiet countryside getaway. With its tranquil, sophisticated atmosphere, this tucked-away village is home to a plethora of cute art galleries and mom-and-pop shops. Props Antiques provides a unique antiquing experience, while Leipers Creek Gallery is known for its collection of fine arts, and The Copper Fox features an eclectic array of arts and crafts from Tennessee's talented makers.
For the perfect, one-of-a-kind evening out, consider signing up for the Farmstead Roots Creek Dinner Series, where you can dine with your feet in the river while listening to live music. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the exhilarating trails at Wilkins Branch Mountain Bike Park nearby, and, just a ~15-minute drive along Natchez Trace Parkway in Franklin, you'll find The Double Arch Bridge. This remarkable feat of engineering spans 1,572 feet long and stands 155 feet tall. Pretty amazing.
Townsend
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Townsend, often referred to as the "quiet side of the Smokies," is a nature lover's paradise right on the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A must-visit is Cades Cove, a stunning valley surrounded by mountains. Here, you'll find a scenic 11-mile loop trail ideal for wildlife viewing as well as the John P. Cable Mill, a fairytail 1860s grist mill that's made it to many a postcard. More ambitious hikers will appreciate a jaunt up Kuwohi, the highest point in the National Park. Tuckaleechee Caverns is another must with its stalagmites, stalactites, and impressive underground waterfall!
The actual town of Townsend is pretty cute and hosts a plethora of annual festivals, including the Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival in August and the Dancing Bear Bicycle Bash in September. It sits right on The Little River, which is a popular spot for inner tubing, swimming, and sunbathing in warmer months. Want to learn a bit about the town's history? Spend a rainy day at The Little River Railroad & Lumber Company Museum and/or the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center.
Hohenwald
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Hohenwald, a quaint town with strong Swiss and German roots, is perhaps best known as home to the Elephant Discovery Center. Connected to the nearby Elephant Sanctuary, the center hosts educational programs that celebrate these magnificent creatures and provide insights into their care and conservation. Nearby, Meriwether Lewis Park is home to Lewis' grave site as well as the Footsteps Through History Trail. This interpretive trail along the Natchez Trace Parkway educates hikers about notable historical figures (including Meriwether Lewis) who walked the same path.
For a taste of local culture, grab a sandwich at Yoder's Homestead Market in the local Amish and Mennonite community and take a hike at the gorgeous Fall Hollow Falls. The area is also home to several working horse and alpaca farms. Check out Ruby's Bluff Alpaca Farm and consider booking a trail ride with Calico Junction Mule Ranch. For those willing to drive a bit, wine tasting at one or several of the area's excellent wineries on the Natchez Trace Wine Trail is a must. Amber Falls Winery and Keg Springs Winery are both within a 30-minute drive.
Bell Buckle
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Bell Buckle is a sleepy, friendly little town that exudes nostalgia, making visitors feel like they are stepping back in time. This charming destination is an antiquing paradise, with notable spots such as the Livery Stable Antique Mall and Blue Bird Antiques & Ice Cream Parlor, perfect for discovering unique treasures while enjoying a sweet treat. Before ice cream, though, you might want to stop by The Bell Buckle Cafe & Music Parlor. Here, you can immerse yourself in the town's warm, welcoming atmosphere while savoring a fabulous meal and wholesome tunes. Walk it off on a stroll through downtown (keep an eye out for colorful murals!).
Throughout the year, Bell Buckle hosts vibrant annual festivals that draw locals and visitors alike. The highlight is the annual Moon Pie and RC Cola Festival held in June, featuring a run, a parade, and the serving of the 海角社区's largest Moon Pie. In March, the Daffodil Day festival combines the beauty of spring blooms with a barbecue cook-off, attracting food lovers and families. Another significant event is the Webb School Art & Craft Show in October, known as one of the state's biggest arts events, showcasing the talents of local artisans. If you can plan your trip around one of these festivals, do it!
There you have it! Tennessee's hidden gems offer a delightful blend of history, culture, and outdoor fun, making them ideal destinations for those seeking a unique getaway. From the enchanting river dinners in Leipers Fork, where you can dine with your toes in the water, to the iconic Jack Daniel Distillery in Lynchburg, where whiskey enthusiasts can explore the rich heritage of this renowned brand, each town has its own appeal and story to tell.
Whether you're wandering through the quaint streets of Bell Buckle, soaking in the storytelling magic of Jonesborough, or embarking on nature escapades in Townsend and Gatlinburg, these seven towns promise unforgettable memories and a true taste of Southern hospitality. So pack your bags and get ready to make some memories!