Charming Tennessee Downtowns Worth Exploring

Tennessee is a state famed for its appealing towns and cities. It is a diverse place, with everything from major metropolises with crowded streets to tranquil towns in the mountains. There is much to enjoy when visiting Tennessee, including charming downtowns throughout that provide endless fun and exploration. Let’s look at some of these vibrant Tennessee downtowns that are worth a visit.

Shelbyville is an appealing Nashville suburb that is home to more than 20,000. It is situated in the hills of Tennessee, making it a naturally scenic hotspot only a short drive from the city. Its downtown is a busy area centered around the Shelbyville Historic Square, where there are historical buildings that date back to the 19th century, as well as antique stores, cafes, and entertainment venues. It is a trendy area with bookstores, boutique shops, and tasty restaurants. 

Franklin is another Nashville suburb that has a lot to offer. It is a historic city that was the site of two major Civil War battles and has many buildings and monuments that are remnants of that era. The Main Street in Franklin is where much of this city congregates, home to antique stores, art galleries, and Victorian-era buildings. The Main Street District hosts many of Franklin’s large annual events and has unique locally-owned restaurants and shops, making it a hub for commerce. It is a picturesque area with much to enjoy. 

Chattanooga is a gorgeous Tennessee city in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, with the Tennessee River winding throughout. Chattanooga is generally a hub for nature lovers, but its busy downtown offers appeal to people of all interests. It has exciting attractions, like the Tennessee Aquarium and Chattanooga Zoo, and diverse neighborhoods with distinct charm. The Bluff View Art District is a hub for galleries and public murals, with trendy cafes and restaurants. The MLK District is where Chattanooga’s college kids unwind, and it has a lively feel with bars and microbreweries.

Sevierville is a gorgeous little city only a short drive from Tennessee’s most renowned natural setting: Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Sevierville, known as the birthplace of Tennessee icon Dolly Parton, has scenic beauty and stunning mountain views. The picturesque downtown blends history and modernity with still-standing buildings from the town’s past and modern amenities. There is public art throughout, delicious new restaurants, and high-quality local retailers. These businesses include a bespoke handmade jewelry gallery, fine dining destinations, and a boutique fashion store inspired by Dolly Parton’s glamorous style.

Bristol is a city in Northern Tennessee situated near Virginia’s border. It is a busy city that is a hub for entertainment and history. Famous for its status as a core part of the development of country music, it boasts many live music venues scattered throughout the town. Downtown Bristol is a historic area with many appealing sites, including more than 60 local businesses, over a third of which are restaurants. There is also the renowned Birthplace of Country Music Museum, which shows off Bristol’s incredible musical history.