Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!
If you want to discover beautiful small towns in Tennessee, you’ve come to the right place!
The Volunteer State is famous for its music but also its amazing nature.
Nashville, Memphis… there are many cities to discover if you want to dive deep into the country music culture and of course, Rock and Roll.
But these aren’t the only places you should visit!
There are also many charming small towns in Tennessee that are worth seeing.
Whether you like staying away from the crowd, discovering hidden gems or are a history buff, you will find the perfect destination right here!
So, are you ready to discover the best small towns in Tennessee? Let’s get started!
Lynchburg
Located a 90-minute drive from Nashville, Lynchburg is home to the popular Jack Daniel’s distillery which manufactures the world-renowned Jack Daniel’s Whisky brand.
The town was founded over two centuries ago.
You will find many attractions in Lynchburg including Miss Mary Bobo’s Boarding House which offers a unique Southern dining experience.
The Old Jail Museum and the Lynchburg City Cemetery are also good places to learn more about the town’s immersive history, culture, and traditions.
Coming from Nashville? If you don’t want to drive yourself, you can also join a day tour from Nashville to Lynchburg. Includes a whiskey tasting, lunch and of course time to explore the town.
WHERE TO STAY: Lynchburg Country Inn is a cute motel located 15 min walk from the Distillery. It’s very convenient and great value for money.
Jonesborough
This was the first town in Tennessee, having been founded in 1779.
It became the first capital of the State of Franklin in 1784.
Jonesborough is an old town known for its Native American heritage (Cherokee, Chickasaw, and Shawnee).
The streets are well preserved, and you can see that the paved walkways have a story to tell, with old buildings standing strong to date.
When you walk down the street, you will notice how beautifully historical architecture co-exist with contemporary (and lively) art scenes, festivals, and quaint little shops.
The town is known as the storytelling capital of the world.
Intriguing stories about Andrew Jackson, Daniel Boone, John Sevier, and David Crockett are told in every museum you visit here.
These are some of the people who played a significant role in shaping the history of the town.
Other places of interest you should check out include the Chester Inn State Historic Site, the International storytelling center, the Architectural salvage warehouse, and the Jonesborough County History museum.
WHERE TO STAY: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson will be an excellent option. It’s very close to all the main attractions and you will access to an indoor pool.
Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is the perfect location for people seeking to explore the Great Smoky Mountains.
It is an outdoor lover’s haven, with kid-friendly attractions, stunning sceneries, mountains, and wonderful local adventures waiting inside the little town.
Before Gatlinburg became a popular mountain town in the US, it was known as White Oaks Flats because of the numerous white oaks that grew in the region.
A businessman named Radford Gatlin opened a store inside the town in 1854 and eventually, the name of the town changed to Gatlinburg.
Gatlinburg is known for its ghost stories. There are loads of haunted buildings and going on a ghost tour is a popular activity here.
If you want to learn more about the town and sample some delicious wines, you can also join the wine and shine walking tour in Gatlinburg. It’s really good fun!
Other attractions you can discover here include the Skylift Park, the rowdy Bear Mountain adventure park, Gatlinburg Space needle, Craftmen’s Fair, Escape Games, Scavenger Hunts and Hollywood Star Cars Museum.
WHERE TO STAY: Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg is the perfect accommodation for families looking for an all-in-one resort. Everything you need will be here and the place is simply fabulous.
If you’d rather something more budget-friendly, the Gatlinburg Mountain Inn will be an excellent choice.
Pigeon Forge
This town was built in 1790 by Mordecai Lewis and it would later become a well-known town for iron forging, logging, and farming.
Many passenger pigeons called this place home when the settlers lived here.
That is how the town got its name; by combining pigeon with iron forging that occurred on the Little Pigeon River.
Pigeon-Forge is surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains, which makes it a delightful place to visit for mountain and outdoor lovers. There are many options when it comes to hiking and it’s absolutely gorgeous, especially in the fall!
READ MORE: 9 Beautiful Fall Towns in the USA to visit this fall!
If hiking is not your thing, you can also book a Jeep tour of the Smoky Mountains or a helicopter tour. It’s very good fun!
In more recent years, Pigeon Forge became one of the most popular small towns in America thanks to its connections with Dolly Parton and Titanic.
Here you can find two main attractions dedicated to Dolly Parton: Dollywood, a theme park owned by Dolly Parton and the dinner theater Dolly Parton’s Stampede.
If Titanic has always been something that fascinates you, you’ll be happy to know that you can find in Pigeon Forge the Titanic Museum.
Unlike the museum in Belfast, where the Titanic was built, this one is an actual replica of the famous White Star line ship. Here you will discover exactly how it was and will literally feel like you were on the maiden voyage. Unfortunately, sorry ladies but it’s very unlikely Leonardo Di Caprio would show up.
Other attractions in Pigeon Forge include the Pirates Voyage, Lumberjack Adventure Park, World of MagiQuest, Alcatraz East, Candyland minigolf, Hannah’s maze of mirrors, the Rocky top mountain coaster ride and the mountain valley winery, and
There are quite a few distilleries and wineries in Pigeon Forge so you should also consider joining the local Moonshine and wine tour. It’s very interesting. You get to learn plenty and of course, to taste the beverages!
WHERE TO STAY: If you want to splurge and love all things Dolly Parton, stay at the stunning Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa.
For a more budget-friendly option, book a room at the Best Western Toni Inn downtown. It’s a great hotel and you’ll get everything you need here.
Greeneville
Greenville is currently the county seat of Greene County and it is the second oldest town in Tennessee (after Jonesborough).
The town was home to Native Americans before the first white settlers came in 1772 and paved the way for the occupation of the land by others, effectively pushing out the natives.
Greeneville was named after Nathaniel Greene (a war general from Rhode Island who also served as a captain for the state of Franklin).
This town is home to famous historical and political figures, including the 17th USA President Andrew Jackson and Davy Crockett.
Andrew Jackson is buried in this town.
While you are here, visit the Andrew Jackson National historic site, the David Crockett state park site, the Greeneville county historic museum, and Tusculum College (the oldest college west of the Appalachian Mountains).
You will learn more about the town’s place in the Civil war and the formation of the US republic.
WHERE TO STAY: Unfortunately, hotels aren’t great in Greeneville so it’s much better to rent a guest house like the Nolichuckey Bluffs Bed & Breakfast Cabins. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing vacation, away from the crowds.
Rogersville
Located in Hawkins County, about 1h15 from Knoxville, Rogersville is one of the best small towns to visit in Tennessee if you are into history.
Fun fact: It was settled by the grandparents of Davy Crockett!
Rogersville is named after Joseph Rogers (a postmaster. settler and tavern owner), who founded the town in 1775.
There are numerous historical sites to visit here including Tennessee’s first post office, Hale Springs Inn, the factory where they had the first printed newspaper in Tennessee, and the home of Davy Crockett’s family.
Davy Crockett was a member of congress in Tennessee and is largely hailed as the hero of the Alamo.
Visit the local artists’ gallery, the Rogersville printing museum, and the Red dog ridge farms.
WHERE TO STAY: Comfort Inn & Suites Rogersville is a great hotel in Rogersville. It’s located only a few minutes away from the historic downtown which is particularly convenient!
Union City
Union City is strategically located where the railroads of Nashville, Mobile, Ohio and the northwestern railroad met. Because of this, the town was a focal point of conflict during the Civil war.
After the war, rebuilding started, businesses flourished and the town became a commercial and trading center.
When you walk around the town, you will notice several monuments erected in memory of the town’s role in the Civil war.
Visit the Turner Kirkland’s Dixie Gun Works (the largest supplier of guns in the region), the Obion County Museum, the Masquerade Theatre, and numerous outdoor attractions present in this town.
WHERE TO STAY: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Union City is ideally located downtown. It has incredible reviews and the facilities are amazing.
Nolensville
Nolensville is a bit of a bigger town since the population grew to over 10,000 inhabitants in recent years however, it still has this small town feel and it’s a great place to visit for history buffs!
In 1797, William Nolen (an American Revolutionary war veteran) started seeking better grounds to establish a life for his family.
When his wagon broke down in Nolensville, he realized that he could create a livelihood because the soil was fertile and the environment was very habitable.
When the Civil War ended, Nolensville town became a popular trade location.
The town started to blossom.
Later, Nolensville was absorbed into Williamson County and became incorporated as a town in 1996.
You will find many historic churches here, some dating back to the 1800s (such as the Methodist church and the Baptist church).
You will also find many old structures that serve as the town’s heritage.
Good examples include the Nolensville feed mill, the Mill Creek brewing company, and the Serenity salt cave.
WHERE TO STAY: There aren’t many options when it comes to hotels in Nolensville however, it is only 30 minutes away from downtown Nashville.
This means that you can choose to stay in Nashville and spend your vacation there and just go on a day trip to Nolensville.
For luxury, stay at the stunning Dream Nashville on the 4th Avenue in downtown Nashville. If you’d like a more affordable option while still staying as central as possible, Hyatt House Nashville Downtown SoBro will be a great choice.
Dayton
This small historic town is famous for the Scopes Trial/Scopes Monkey trial that occurred in 1925.
John Scopes, a high school teacher, was accused of teaching human evolution in the classrooms, something considered illegal in Tennessee’s Butler Act.
Scopes was found guilty and fined. This verdict was later overturned on a technicality.
The national focus this trial brought to the little town turned it into a tourist attraction spot.
Visitors can enjoy a cocktail at the Monkey Town Brewing Company, explore the wilderness at Laurel-snow state natural area, indulge in history at the Rhea County Courthouse and Scopes Trial Museum, or have a picnic at the magnificent Rock City Gardens.
You can also drive to Lake Chickamauga where you will find beautiful walks.
WHERE TO STAY: Sleep Inn & Suites Dayton is ideally located near downtown and Lake Chickamauga. It’s excellent value for money.
Ripley
Located only 1h15 from Memphis, Ripley is an excellent place to visit for people looking for a historical day trip.
The town was established in 1836 and it is the current county seat of Lauderdale County. It was named after Wheelock Ripley, a war veteran.
Many old buildings still stand today showcasing the historical significance and role this town had during the revolutionary war.
The main attractions here include the Alex Haley Home and Museum, Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge, Fort Pillow State Park, and Chickasaw National Wildlife Heritage.
WHERE TO STAY: There aren’t many options when it comes to accommodation in Ripley but the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Ripley will be a great choice. It’s affordable and very good value for money.
Paris, TN
Looking for an unusual small town to visit in Tennessee? Why not go to Paris then? Paris… Tennessee!
Paris, France, may be the most famous city in the world but listen if you want a cool day out, Paris TN will be a great option.
It’s located a couple of hours drive from Nashville and is considered to be the oldest incorporated town in West Tennessee.
As you get there, the first thing you should do is roam around downtown. It is truly a cute town and you’ll find loads of historical buildings such as Henry County Courthouse and the library.
And then of course, it would be impossible to visit Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower!
Yes, that’s right! You can find a replica of the famous landmark right here in Tennessee! It is 70-foot-tall and a great place to visit as a couple or with kids.
If you are visiting in April, you will be able to go to the ‘World’s Biggest Fish Fry’ festival. Locals are extremely proud of this event and it’s for sure, very unique!
Finally, if you are looking for outdoor activities, head to Kentucky Lake. It’s one of the most visited lakes in the area and you’ll find loads of activities and walks there.
WHERE TO STAY: Knights Inn is a cute motel located in downtown Paris and a 20-minute drive from Paris landing State park.
Dandridge
Located only 30 minutes from Knoxville, Dandridge is one of the cutest small towns in East Tennessee.
It was founded in 1783 by settlers coming from the Appalachian Mountains, making it one of the oldest towns in the state!
It was named after George Washington’s wife, Martha Dandridge Washington.
It’s ideally located right in front of the beautiful Douglas Lake where you will find loads of waster activities and walks. The TVA hiking trail is particularly popular.
Downtown, you will find many historical buildings dating from the 19th century including the Shepard’s Inn, Roper Tavern and Thomas Tavern.
If you are interested in learning more about the American Revolution and the events that took place in the area, you should consider doing the self-guided walking tour of the revolutionary war graveyard.
WHERE TO STAY: Quality Inn Dandridge is a cute hotel located only a couple of miles from Douglas Lake. From there you can easily reach downtown Dandrige but also take day trips to other cute TN small towns such as Pigeon Forge.
Hohenwald
Looking for a german town in Tennessee? Welcome to Hohenwald!
Just an hour away from the hustle and bustle of Nashville, you’ll find this slice of Europe right in the heart of the South.
The town’s name, Hohenwald, translates to ‘high forest’ in German – and it definitely lives up to it!
For foodies and wine lovers, Hohenwald is an absolute paradise. One of the best things to do is to follow the Natchez Trace Wine Trail, which takes you on a delightful journey to local wineries like Amber Falls Winery and Natchez Hills Winery.
Make sure to check them out and go for a wine tasting!
While you’re in town, pay a visit to the Lewis County Museum.
As Hohenwald is the county seat, there’s a wealth of intriguing exhibits about the area, including the story behind the county’s namesake.
A standout attraction that’s a must-visit, especially for families, is the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee. Open from Tuesday to Saturday, it’s a chance to see these majestic creatures and learn about their conservation program.
It’s not every day you get to do that!
Though Hohenwald is delightful any time of year, there’s something magical about visiting in the fall. Oktoberfest, the town’s nod to its German heritage, is not to be missed.
So, mark your calendars and prepare for a blend of Southern charm and European elegance in Hohenwald!
Bell Buckle
If you are looking for a picturesque town in Tennessee, Bell Buckle will be the perfect place to visit.
It’s ideally located near Nashville which means you can go there on a day trip. It’s only 1-hour drive.
It is a railroad town where you can find very well preserved Victorian houses and churches.
Bell Buckle is an interesting place to visit if you like history but also for people who love to discover typical American towns.
Roaming around downtown is a very pleasant thing to do in Bell Buckle. There are loads of antique shops, cafes, bars and local shops.
Bell Buckle Café is a great place to go to if you want to grab food or a drink.
All in all, Bell Buckle is the picture-perfect southern town!
WHERE TO STAY: Bell Buckle Guest House is a super cute vacation rental in Bell Buckle. Perfect for a family spending a weekend here!
Manchester
While Manchester UK and Manchester VT are much better known, Tennessee also has its own Manchester and that’s a very cute place!
If you are looking for a small town in Tennessee to live in, Manchester could be a great option for you.
It’s not too far from Nashville (1-hour drive) and there are 10,000 inhabitants which means it’s not too small either.
Strolling around downtown is very pleasant and you’ll find cute cafes where you can grab food.
The Arrowheads/Aerospace Cultural Center is also an interesting place to visit if you want to learn more about American history.
If you like wine and would like to try some local ones, head to Beans Creek Winery.
No matter what, make sure to head to Old Stone Fort State Park. It’s located on the edge of the town and is full of beautiful hidden gems such as the Old Stone Fort Museum and the Bluehole Falls. There are a few walking paths here that you can take.
It’s a nice way to spend your afternoon in Manchester TN.
But that’s not all! Manchester is famous for hosting one of the best festivals in the area: Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival. It takes place in September and is so much fun!
WHERE TO STAY: Comfort Suites Manchester is a great hotel ideally located near Arrowhead/Aerospace Museum. There is an indoor swimming pool!
Arlington
Located in Shelby county, Arlington TN was initially named Haysville.
It was founded by the nephew of Andrew Jackson, the 7th President of the United States and is located on the outside of Memphis.
Not only is it a nice place to visit as a day out but it’s also one of the best small towns in Tennessee to live in.
Firstly, it’s very easy and quick to get to Memphis. Secondly, it’s just so cute and welcoming! It’s also much more affordable and the perfect image of a charming southern town.
In downtown Arlington, you’ll find a lot of local businesses which is perfect if you want to grab food or do a bit of shopping.
Granville
Next stop on our tour of the prettiest towns in Tennessee, we’re heading to a hidden gem just an hour away from Nashville.
Welcome to Granville, folks!
Snuggled on the banks of the Cumberland River, Granville is lovingly nicknamed ‘Tennessee’s Mayberry Town’.
For those scratching their heads, Mayberry is a fictional town from the beloved sitcoms, The Andy Griffith Show and Mayberry R.F.D.
Granville is a perfect spot to kick back and take a leisurely wander around, soaking in the small-town charm and maybe stopping in a local café for a bite.
But what makes this little town extra special is its surprising collection of museums – a bonanza for such a small place!
The Granville Museum should be your first stop.
Here, you’ll get a fascinating glimpse into the history of Granville and life in a small farming community.
If you are curious to learn more about agriculture, the ‘Farm to Your Table’ Agriculture Museum is a must.
You’ll explore the nuances of farming in Granville and Tennessee, right down to the process of milk production!
It’s an absolute delight, especially for the little ones.
There are other gems to explore too, like the Granville Whiskey Decanter, Mayberry – I Love Lucy Museum, Car Museum, and the Tennessee Quilt & Textile Museum.
Phew, that’s a lot of museums for such a cozy town!
What’s more, Granville is a year-round delight with loads of events during fall and Christmas.
Townsend
Next on our list is Townsend, a charming mountain town snuggled near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
This place is an excellent choice if you’re aiming to soak up the beauty of the Smoky Mountains without the usual crowd.
A must-visit in Townsend is the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center. This place offers a fascinating exhibition about Native American culture in Tennessee.
What’s more, you’ll also get to see a collection of 13 historical buildings from northeast Tennessee, each brimming with stories of the past.
Want to delve deeper into the town’s history? Be sure to head over to the Little River Railroad & Lumber Museum.
Here, you’ll find plenty about Townsend’s roots and the important role the railroad and lumber industries played in shaping the town.
For a touch of nature’s splendor, don’t miss the Tuckaleechee Caverns.
Located a bit further out, these beautiful caves boast impressive underground waterfalls, making it an ideal escape from the heat on a hot summer day.
If you’re all about the water fun, make your way to Smoky Mountain River Rat.
They offer a super relaxing and enjoyable tubing experience that’ll have you floating along with a grin on your face.
All in all, Townsend offers a unique mix of history, culture, and outdoor fun.
It’s the perfect Tennessee small town experience, offering plenty without the crowds.
Leiper’s Fork
Leiper’s Fork is a very cute hidden gem in Tennessee that will make happy all whiskey and music lovers.
Located near the city of Franklin, this small village is the perfect laid-back spot for those who want to enjoy a chilled and fun day out.
The first place to check out in Leiper’s Fork is definitely its distillery – the Leiper’s Fork Distillery.
This place crafts premium whiskeys using local ingredients, making it an absolute must-visit for whiskey connoisseurs.
They produce their whiskey in small batches, adding a unique, personalized touch to their spirit.
The tours of the distillery are a treat, as the small scale allows you to really get an insight into the process and ask as many questions as you wish. And the best part? You get to taste the whiskey!
Don’t rush off after the distillery tour, though. The village is a fantastic spot for a lunch break.
One popular spot is Fox & Locke, renowned for their delicious BBQ and live music.
Every Thursday evening, they host open mic nights, so make sure you’re around to catch that!
For shopping enthusiasts, Leiper’s Fork offers some lovely stores featuring handcrafted products. In need of some cowboy boots? Head straight to Moo Country!
To wrap up your day, catch a movie at the outdoor Lawnchair Theater. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a film under the Tennessee stars.
Erwin
Nestled in the heart of Cherokee National Forest, Erwin is an outdoor lover’s dream come true.
It’s the perfect playground for hikers, with more trails than you can count. This includes Erwin Kiwanis Park and Erwin Linear Trail.
And if you’re up for an adventure, the world-renowned Appalachian Trail is right on your doorstep.
The mountain views here? Absolutely breathtaking, so don’t forget your camera!
Fishing enthusiast? Well, Erwin has got you covered. Cast your line into the Nolichucky River, a popular spot for local anglers.
Not into fishing? No problem! You can also kayak the river for a fun-filled afternoon.
Sticking with our aquatic theme, don’t miss the Erwin National Fish Hatchery. They’ve got three types of rainbow trout and offer tours to learn about the hatching process.
It’s a fin-tastic way to spend a day!
For a dip, the Rock Creek Recreation Area is the place to be. It’s perfect for a refreshing swim or a lazy afternoon lounging by the water.
And for all you history buffs, make sure to drop by the Unicoi County Heritage Museum. It’s full of intriguing insights about the local area that’ll transport you back in time.
Tellico Plains
Tellico Plains is a charming town in the heart of eastern Tennessee, located roughly halfway between Knoxville and Chattanooga.
It is known for its Insta-worthy landscapes and for being a great place to enjoy a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities.
The town is in Monroe County and lies at the confluence of the Tellico and Bald Rivers.
It is also enveloped by The Cherokee National Forest, making it a top destination for nature lovers and those with an adventurous spirit.
Tellico Plains is renowned for its excellent hiking trails, fishing spots and opportunities for white-water rafting.
It is also the starting point of the scenic Cherohala Skyway, a breathtaking 43-mile National Scenic Byway that offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness en route to Robbinsville in North Carolina.
You can discover more about its heritage in town at the Charles Hall Museum.
You can also stroll around its historic district, which features well-preserved buildings that harken back to the town’s early days.
Bristol
Bristol is a vibrant town in northeastern Tennessee, straddling the border with Virginia, about a two-hour drive from Knoxville.
Twinned with Bristol in Virginia, which lies directly across the state line, the town is known as the ‘Birthplace of Country Music’.
It hosted the historic 1927 Bristol Sessions that laid the foundation for the emergence of country music as a global phenomenon.
If you are down with Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash and Tim McGraw, you’ll love the opportunity to explore the Birthplace of Country Music Museum.
It showcases the town’s rich musical heritage, quite fittingly, from an address on the street known as Country Music Way.
Should you not be a fan of country music, fear not. The town is home to the Bristol Motor Speedway, a mecca for NASCAR fans, featuring thrilling races and events throughout the year.
Additionally, Bristol boasts a charming downtown area filled with eclectic shops, restaurants and art galleries.
Nature lovers will also love exploring the nearby Appalachian Mountains, which offer numerous hiking trails and scenic drives.
Columbia
Columbia is a historic and charming place located in the heart of Maury County, just south of Nashville.
Its central location in the state makes it a convenient stop for travelers exploring Tennessee’s diverse attractions.
Columbia is steeped in history, with well-preserved antebellum homes and historic districts like Columbia Square, where visitors can step back in time and appreciate the architectural beauty of yesteryears.
The James K. Polk Ancestral Home offers insight into the life of the 11th U.S. President.
Nature enthusiasts can explore several nearby state parks, including Chickasaw Trace Park, known for its scenic hiking and biking trails.
The town also hosts various annual events, including the Mule Day celebration, a unique and lively festival honoring the mule’s role in agriculture.
Despite having a dark past for lynchings – an 18-year-old black man called
Henry Choate was hanged by an angry mob outside the courthouse in 1927 after being falsely accused of assaulting a 16-year-old white girl – the town now has a far more welcoming community.
Pulaski
Pulaski might be a small town, but it is notorious in American folklore as the birthplace of the Ku Klux Klan – something which is documented in the town’s museum.
While this might put some travelers off visiting the place, those who do make it to the historic town in southern Tennessee will also find it has a rich Civil War history.
Pulaski is situated just an hour’s drive from Roanoke, Virginia.
It allows visitors to explore its charming downtown area, which features well-preserved 19th-century buildings, quaint shops and local eateries serving delicious southern-inspired dishes.
Close by, the Sam Davis Home and Museum provides insight into a Confederate hero’s life and the region’s history during the Civil War.
Away from town, nature lovers can enjoy hiking, picnicking, fishing and boating at nearby David Crockett State Park.
You must secure a valid Tennessee state fishing license to cast a line.
Morristown
Over in the northeastern part of Tennessee, Morristown is a charming town that resides within the Valley and Ridge of the Appalachian mountains.
German and Irish-Scottish descendants established the town in the late 1700s, sandwiched between Bristol and Knoxville at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains.
Its prime location along the I-81 corridor makes it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the region.
Morristown offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and outdoor recreation.
Visitors are transported back in time at the General Longstreet Museum and the Crockett Tavern Museum, highlighting the area’s rich historical heritage.
At the same time, those who enjoy spending time outdoors will find plenty to do in the nearby Cherokee Lake, renowned for boating, fishing and water sports.
The lake is accessible via Panther Creek State Park, where you can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, wildlife watching, and many photography opportunities.
Tullahoma
Tullahoma is a picturesque town in the state’s south-central part, nestled amid the rolling hills and lush landscapes of Coffee County.
This charming town is known for its historical significance to World War II.
At this time, it served as a site for military training – including the construction of Camp Forrest – which played a crucial role in the war effort.
One of the town’s main attractions is the Beechcraft Heritage Museum, which celebrates the legacy of aviation pioneer Walter Beech and showcases a fascinating collection of vintage aircraft.
Another is the scenic Tims Ford State Park, which offers boating, fishing, hiking and camping opportunities around the beautiful Tims Ford Lake.
Interestingly, Tullahoma is now a hub for aeronautics and aviation.
You can discover this at The University of Tennessee Space Institute, whose technicians and engineers developed the X-43 for NASA as part of their Hyper-X program.
Cookeville
Cookeville, Tennessee, is a vibrant destination in the state’s Upper Cumberland region, right in the heart of the scenic Plateau region.
Known for its friendly atmosphere and central location, Cookeville offers many attractions and activities to captivate visitors.
Lovers of the natural world, for instance, can explore the nearby Cummins Falls State Park, where you can hike to one of Tennessee’s most stunning waterfalls. Burgess Falls State Park is another nearby gem with picturesque cascades you’ll want to check out.
Cookeville is also home to Tennessee Tech University, infusing the town with a youthful energy and cultural diversity that is not as prevalent elsewhere in the state.
The downtown area features charming boutiques, art galleries and a thriving culinary scene, making it perfect for shopping and dining.
If you happen to be in town in early September, check out the ‘Cookeville-Putnam County Fall Fun Fest.
This annual event is set around the town’s impressive courthouse square.
It is a lively event that draws people from across the region for a weekend of music, food, and family-friendly activities.
You may also be interested in:
