Gatlinburg: Smoky Mountain Gateway
Nestled at the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is a vibrant mountain town that attracts millions of visitors annually despite
its small population of under 3,800. It's celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, diverse shopping opportunities, and an impressive array of activities. Often referred to as the 'gateway to the Smokies,' this town invites exploration of the national park, with opportunities for waterfall chasing, exhilarating mountain coaster rides, and visits to various museums and a large aquarium. For theme park enthusiasts, the world-renowned Dollywood is conveniently located just a short drive away in Pigeon Forge, another popular small town. The region's deep connection to Dolly Parton is evident, as she hails from nearby Sevierville.
Jonesborough: Storytelling Capital
Jonesborough, Tennessee's oldest town founded in 1779, punches above its weight with vibrant live music, distinctive shopping, and centuries of rich history. It holds the esteemed title of the 'storytelling capital of the world,' primarily due to its hosting of the National Storytelling Festival every October. Throughout the warmer months, from May to October, the town comes alive with nightly live music on Fridays and Sunday evenings from June through September. Local and regional artisans showcase their work at an annual event in November, and the Christmas in Olde Jonesborough celebration from late November through December offers family-friendly festivities. Stepping back in time is easy with a visit to the 1906 Jonesborough Historic District, where a stroll down the well-preserved Main Street reveals historic buildings, antique shops, and delightful ice cream and candy parlors, enhanced by charming carriage rides.
Granville: Mayberry's Charm
Granville stands as a true hidden gem, a quaint small town largely unknown to many, yet it's the birthplace of former U.S. Senator Albert Gore, Sr. Nicknamed 'Tennessee's Mayberry Town,' this charming village is situated just over an hour east of Nashville, resting peacefully on the banks of the Cumberland River. Granville embodies the unhurried and welcoming pace of a bygone era. For a modest fee of $7, visitors can embark on a town tour granting access to unique attractions such as the Granville Whiskey Decanter Museum, the Whistle Stop Saloon and Ice Cream Museum, and the Mayberry-_I Love Lucy_ Museum, alongside the historic Sutton Homestead and Pioneer Village, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the past.
Erwin: Appalachian Adventure
For enthusiasts of the great outdoors, Erwin presents an idyllic Appalachian Trail town nestled within the mountains of Unicoi County. The area boasts spectacular mountain vistas, offering exceptional opportunities for hiking, fishing, and thrilling rafting excursions on the Nolichucky River. After a day of adventure, visitors can unwind in Erwin's charming downtown, which features a delightful coffee shop, a local pottery studio, and a well-stocked outdoor supply store, providing a perfect base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty.
Dayton: Trial History Hub
Originally established as Smith's Crossroads in 1820 and renamed Dayton in 1877 after its Ohio namesake, this Tennessee town gained national prominence in the 1920s as the venue for the renowned Scopes 'Monkey Trial.' This pivotal legal case examined the controversial topic of teaching evolution in state-funded schools. Visitors can delve into this significant historical event at the Rhea County Courthouse, the very site where the trial took place. Beyond its historical importance, Dayton offers a variety of attractions, including antique shops, diverse dining options, nearby hiking trails, and access to the Tennessee River, known for its excellent bass fishing opportunities.
Hohenwald: Elephant Sanctuary
Located approximately a 90-minute drive southwest of Nashville, Hohenwald is a town rich with diverse attractions. A key highlight is the Discovery Center at The Elephant Sanctuary, where visitors can observe the sanctuary's residents via 'EleCams,' as direct public access to the sanctuary itself is restricted for the elephants' well-being. Other points of interest include the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site, the expansive Natchez Trace Wilderness Preserve, and the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway. The area also holds significance as the final resting place of explorer Meriwether Lewis, who passed away and was buried seven miles east of town in 1809. For a unique lakeside lodging experience, consider the quirky accommodations available at the Natchez Trace RV Campground.
Leiper's Fork: Rural Retreat
Leiper's Fork is a diminutive unincorporated rural village with a population of about 650, yet this charming spot in Williamson County is surprisingly rich in attractions. Visitors can explore a variety of art galleries, a local whiskey distillery, and enjoy delightful restaurants spread across its roughly 1,100 acres. The village exudes a strong sense of community, characterized by front porches, communal fire pits, and even the vacation residences of notable figures like musician Chris Stapleton. While Leiper's Fork lacks its own hotel accommodations, the larger, though still relatively small, town of Franklin is conveniently situated just a 20-minute drive away, offering ample lodging options.
Lynchburg: Distillery Heritage
Lynchburg, a town in south-central Tennessee, carries a historical connection to Davy Crockett, who resided in a log cabin here between 1811 and 1813. Today, its downtown area is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. Lynchburg is globally known as the home of the Jack Daniel Distillery, established in 1866 by Mr. Jack Daniel himself, making it the oldest registered distillery in the United States. Intriguingly, Moore County, where Lynchburg is located, has been a dry county since Tennessee implemented prohibition laws in 1910. Other notable local attractions include the Moore County Historical Museum and the quaint shops that dot the town's historic landscape.
