The Most Beautiful Town in Tennessee: Exploring Scenic Gems and Charming Delights

Choose the town you think is the most beautiful!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Jun 16, 2023 10:17 (Updated on Nov 26, 2023 05:57)
Discover the hidden gems of Tennessee by participating in our exclusive ranking of the most beautiful towns in the Volunteer State! From charming historic districts to breathtaking scenic landscapes, we've gathered the top contenders for your voting pleasure. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, picturesque views, and warm hospitality that these towns have to offer. So why wait? Cast your vote now and help us unveil the true beauty that lies within the heart of Tennessee. And if you feel like we've missed out on a captivating town, don't hesitate to suggest your favorite! Together, let's embark on an enchanting journey through the spellbinding towns of Tennessee, one vote at a time.

What Is the Most Beautiful Town in Tennessee?

  1. 1
    85
    votes
    Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor adventures, and charming downtown area.
    Description
    Gatlinburg is a charming city located in eastern Tennessee, nestled amidst the scenic mountains of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is renowned for its picturesque beauty, vibrant atmosphere, and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. The city is often referred to as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, attracting millions of visitors each year with its stunning natural landscapes, diverse wildlife, and charming Appalachian culture.
    • Population: 4,144
    • Elevation: 1,511 feet (461 meters)
    • Area: 11.3 square miles (29.2 square kilometers)
    • Year Established: 1945
    • Tourism: Approximately 12 million visitors annually
  2. 2
    22
    votes
    A historic town just outside of Nashville, Franklin boasts a picturesque downtown with boutique shopping, award-winning restaurants, and Civil War history.
  3. 3
    29
    votes
    With its stunning waterfront, thriving arts scene, and outdoor activities, Chattanooga has been named one of the "Best Places to Live" by Outside Magazine.
    Description
    Chattanooga is a vibrant city located in southeastern Tennessee, nestled along the banks of the Tennessee River. It is often referred to as the 'Scenic City' due to its breathtaking natural beauty, surrounded by mountains and lush greenery. The combination of stunning landscapes, rich history, and a thriving arts and culture scene make it a truly remarkable place to visit.
    • Population: Approximately 180,000
    • Nicknames: Scenic City, Gig City (due to its advanced telecommunications infrastructure)
    • Riverfront: Chattanooga showcases a beautifully revitalized riverfront area with parks, walking paths, and stunning views of the river.
    • Outdoor Recreation: The city offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and water sports.
    • Chattanooga Choo Choo: Home to the historic Terminal Station, which has been converted into a hotel and entertainment complex.
  4. 4
    20
    votes
    The oldest town in Tennessee, Jonesborough is a quaint and charming community that offers a glimpse into the state's past.
    Description
    Jonesborough is a charming town located in eastern Tennessee. It is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful towns in the state, known for its rich history and picturesque scenery. The town exudes a nostalgic, small-town atmosphere that welcomes visitors with its warm hospitality.
    • Established: 1779
    • Historic District: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places
    • Architecture: Well-preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings
    • Storytelling: Home of the National Storytelling Festival
    • Heritage: Oldest town in Tennessee
  5. 5
    13
    votes
    Located at the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Sevierville offers natural beauty, family-friendly attractions, and outlet shopping.
    Description
    Sevierville is a picturesque town located in Tennessee, known for its natural beauty, charming small-town atmosphere, and proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The town offers a perfect blend of stunning landscapes, outdoor recreational activities, and a rich history and culture. From scenic drives to hiking trails, shopping opportunities to delicious local cuisine, Sevierville has something to offer for every visitor.
    • Population: Approximately 16,000
    • Location: Sevier County, Tennessee, United States
    • Elevation: 875 feet (267 meters)
    • Climate: Humid subtropical
    • Notable Feature: Close proximity to Great Smoky Mountains National Park
  6. 6
    9
    votes
    A college town with a small-town feel, Cookeville is surrounded by scenic countryside and offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities.
    Description
    Cookeville is a charming town located in the heart of Tennessee. With its picturesque landscapes, vibrant community, and thriving economy, Cookeville is often considered one of the most beautiful towns in the state. The town seamlessly blends its natural surroundings with modern amenities, offering residents and visitors a unique and enchanting experience.
    • Population: Approximately 34,000 residents
    • Location: Located in Putnam County, Tennessee
    • Climate: Mild and temperate, with four distinct seasons
    • Natural Attractions: Burgess Falls State Park, Cummins Falls State Park
    • Educational Institutions: Tennessee Tech University
  7. 7
    7
    votes
    Bell Buckle
    Brian Stansberry · CC BY 3.0

    Bell Buckle

    Bell Buckle Historical Society
    A tiny town with a population of just over 500, Bell Buckle is known for its charming Victorian architecture, antique shops, and annual festivals.
    Description
    Bell Buckle is a picturesque town located in Bedford County, Tennessee. It is known for its charming small-town atmosphere, historic buildings, and vibrant community events.
    • Population: Approximately 500
    • Location: Middle Tennessee, about 50 miles southeast of Nashville
    • Year Founded: 1852
    • Historical Importance: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places
    • Music Festivals: Hosts the annual RC-Moon Pie Festival, featuring live music
  8. 8
    11
    votes
    Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor adventures, and charming downtown area.
    Description
    Gatlinburg is a charming city located in eastern Tennessee, nestled amidst the scenic mountains of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is renowned for its picturesque beauty, vibrant atmosphere, and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. The city is often referred to as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, attracting millions of visitors each year with its stunning natural landscapes, diverse wildlife, and charming Appalachian culture.
    • Population: 4,144
    • Elevation: 1,511 feet (461 meters)
    • Area: 11.3 square miles (29.2 square kilometers)
    • Year Established: 1945
    • Tourism: Approximately 12 million visitors annually
  9. 9
    9
    votes
    A picturesque village just outside of Nashville, Leiper's Fork is home to art galleries, boutique shops, and farm-to-table restaurants.
    Description
    Leiper's Fork is a small historic village located in Williamson County, Tennessee. Surrounded by rolling hills and scenic countryside, it is renowned for its natural beauty and charming atmosphere. The town exudes a relaxed and laid-back vibe, offering visitors a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its picturesque landscapes and timeless architecture, Leiper's Fork is often described as an idyllic Southern gem.
    • Arts and Culture: Home to talented musicians and artists
    • Location: Williamson County, Tennessee
    • Size: Approximately 1 square mile
    • Population: Around 650 residents
    • Natural Surroundings: Rolling hills and countryside
  10. 10
    7
    votes
    Although it's a small town, Lynchburg is famous for being the home of Jack Daniel's Distillery, which attracts visitors from all over the world.
    Description
    Lynchburg is a charming city located in central Virginia, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and modern amenities. Known as the 'Hill City', Lynchburg captivates visitors with its picturesque landscapes and vibrant community.
    • Population: Approximately 82,000 residents
    • Year Founded: 1786
    • Geographic Location: Central Virginia, USA
    • Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains
    • Historical Landmarks: Poplar Forest, Old City Cemetery, and Point of Honor

Missing your favorite town?

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Ranking factors for beautiful town

  1. Natural beauty
    This includes the surrounding landscape, such as mountains, rivers, lakes, forests, or parks that contribute to the town's overall scenic appeal.
  2. Architecture and history
    The presence of historic buildings, charming streets, and unique architectural styles adds to the beauty of a town. A rich history often indicates a well-preserved and attractive downtown area.
  3. Cleanliness and maintenance
    A well-maintained town with clean streets, public areas, and attractive landscaping shows pride and care, making it more visually appealing.
  4. Cultural attractions and events
    A beautiful town should offer a variety of cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, theaters, and festivals, which add to its overall charm and appeal.
  5. Walkability and accessibility
    A beautiful town should be easy to explore on foot, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.
  6. Safety and low crime rates
    A safe environment with low crime rates is more attractive to residents and visitors.
  7. Vibrant community and local businesses
    A strong sense of community and thriving local businesses add to the beauty and charm of a town.
  8. Public spaces and amenities
    Parks, town squares, and other public spaces should be well-maintained and inviting for visitors and locals alike. Good amenities, such as street lighting and public restrooms, also contribute to the overall appeal of a town.
  9. Climate and weather
    A temperate climate with plenty of sunshine and mild weather makes for a more enjoyable experience in a town.
  10. Population size and diversity
    A town with a diverse population and a good balance between residential and commercial areas is typically more interesting and attractive to visitors and residents.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most beautiful town in Tennessee. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or town is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1341 views
  • 212 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each town once every 24 hours. The rank of each town is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most beautiful town in tennessee

Tennessee is a beautiful state with a rich history and diverse culture. From the rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains to the vibrant city of Nashville, there are countless destinations to explore. However, when it comes to the most beautiful towns in Tennessee, the competition is fierce. Each town has its own unique charm and character, from the quaint streets of Franklin to the picturesque views of Gatlinburg. Whether you're looking for small-town charm or breathtaking natural scenery, Tennessee has it all. So, which town is the most beautiful? It's a difficult question to answer, as beauty is subjective and depends on personal preferences. However, through the use of polls and rankings, we can gather insights from locals and visitors to determine the top contenders. Join us as we explore the most beautiful towns in Tennessee and discover what makes them so special.

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