Toyota of Kingsport

Jul 5, 2018

Tennessee is known for its southern hospitality and East Tennessee lives up to this reputation with many small charming towns that are warm and welcoming. Whether you’re a first time visitor to the state or a resident looking to learn more about Tennessee, we’ve created this small guide to some of the most charming East Tennessee towns to help you plan your next trip. Read on to learn more about four East Tennessee towns you should make a point to visit.

Townsend

Townsend is nestled along the Smokey Mountains in an area appropriately named the “Peaceful Side of the Smokey Mountains.” Ideal for adventurers who want a home base to explore the rich natural beauty of Tennessee, Townsend is only a short trip away from a multitude of trails and other outdoor adventures. Journey to the Tuckaleechee Caverns and stand in a space that was carved from the mountains tens of thousands of years ago. Or, climb to the top of one of the nearby mountains for an unparalleled view overlooking the peaks and valleys of this ancient mountain range.

Jonesborough

Described as Tennessee’s Oldest Town, Jonesborough is full of stunningly preserved historic buildings and tributes to Appalachian culture. It has plenty of museums for visitors looking to learn more about the history of Tennessee and gain a stronger appreciation of its distinctive culture. The Chester Inn Museum and Washington County/Jonesborough Museum are two of the best. Interested visitors can also embark on one of the many walking tours in the area to get a greater feel for the architecture and the history of the town. Jonesborough also hosts the National Storytelling Festival, one of the most distinctive and interesting festivals in the area that draws in a national and international crowd.

Dandridge

Dandridge is located by two of Tennessee’s largest lakes which makes it a popular spot for avid fisherman to kick back, relax, and drop a line in.  Nature lovers also appreciate the proximity to Cherokee Lake and Douglas Lake and watercraft like canoes and kayaks are available for rent nearby. Dandridge draws in visitors thanks to its charming Main Street, which is on the National Register of Historic Places and is home to a number of shops and cafes.

Pulaski

Rich in Tennessee history, Pulaski played an important role in the Civil War and is named after a Polish-born American Revolutionary War hero. While there are positive and negative aspects to Pulaski’s role in the American cultural landscape, it’s now a charming town filled with historic architecture and charming local businesses. Head to the Milky Way Farm Manor House to tour some beautiful examples of home design before taking a stroll through the 1,000-plus acres that surround the house, home to plenty of wildlife and domesticated animals. There is a small museum dedicated to the history of the town in the city library that’s worth a visit for visitors interested in learning more about Pulaski.

East Tennessee is a beautiful stretch of countryside that’s home to many charming small towns that would make excellent road trip destinations.

Image by Jen Kindell from Pixabay