8 Adorable Small Towns In Tennessee That Would Make The Perfect Spring 2020 Road Trip
Nashville and Pigeon Forge are probably top of mind when you think of fun cities in Tennessee. Music City and Dolly Parton's dreamland are definitely full of adventures, but there are lots of other cool spots that should be recognized more often. This Tennessee small town roadtrip map for the spring will give you new places to check out and find new adventures.
Tennessee holds lots of rich Southern history and a lot of it is hidden in tiny and adorable towns scattered throughout the state. From lakes and waterfalls to antiques and antebellum homes, these small towns in Tennessee make for the ideal roadtrip this spring.
Rogersville
Where: 245 miles east of Nashville
Why You Should Go: Ogle over the beauty of the pioneer history, antebellum aesthetic and the quaint downtown area. Main Street is perfect for strolling, window shopping and grabbing a bite. You can even get in touch with your outdoorsy side at the falls at Husky Mountain.
Jonesborough
Where: 93 miles east of Knoxville (near the North Carolina border)
Why You Should Go: Charming antique shops are just the tip of the iceberg here. This city may be tiny, but it's rich in history. Travel back in time with a carriage tour to discover downtown and hop on over to Depot Street Brewing and Old Sweet Shop. If you visit in the spring and summer, you definitely have to visit Wetlands Water Park.
Bell Buckle
Where: 53 miles south of Nashville
Why You Should Go: This adorable town is the true definition of Southern charm. Kayaking, wineries, a distillery, antiques and taverns make up this super fun city (which you wouldn't expect with a population of 500). It's also home to some of the truest Southern cooking and lots of festivals, including the Moonpie Fest.
Townsend
Where: 18 miles Southwest of Pigeon Forge
Why You Should Go: Townsend is one of three "gateways" to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Hike the trails at Tuckaleechee Cove or Hike Rich Mountain Loop to discover cascading falls and gorgeous vistas. Cades Cove (an open-air museum surrounded by mountains) horseback riding and tubing.
Sewanee
Where: 52 miles west of Chattanooga
Why You Should Go: The vintage charming shops along the strip at the end of University Avenue are filled to the brim with knickknacks, florists and artisan wares. Check out Perimeter Trail to get in touch with nature and enjoy free music at Angel Park downtown.
Belle Meade
Where: nine miles Southwest of Nashville
Why You Should Go: French for Beautiful Meadow, this stunning tiny town is only 3.1 square miles. Explore the Belle Meade Plantation, take a stroll along Radnor Lake and take in the beauty of the unique historical homes.
Franklin
Where: 20 miles south of Nashville
Why You Should Go: From historical structures and museums to a modern adventure tower, this city has come a long way. Window shop downtown, grab a drink at the Leiper's Fork Distillery and explore Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge.
Mt. Juliet
Where: 17 miles east of Nashville
Why You Should Go: This "city between the lakes" is as beautiful as it sounds. Enjoy the peaceful lakeside parks and even take a day cruise on the water or go horseback riding. After working up an appetite, grab some yummy ribs at the Big Bad Wolf.