17 Small Towns Around Nashville Where Everyone Knows Your Name
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Meghan Kraft
Author
Are you ready for a road trip? Well, these are some of the best small towns near Nashville, TN and they are just a stone’s throw from the center of the city. Whether their population swings toward big or small, they have the perfect small town feel. You don’t want to miss out on a day trip to these darling spots. Who knows? You may decide to make one of these lovely Tennessee towns your new home!
Bell Buckle, TN 37020, USA
Known for its annual RC Cola and Moon Pie Festival, Bell Buckle is precisely the kind of small town you think about when Tennessee comes to mind. With less than 700 residents, you can enjoy "first name basis" status almost as soon as you cross city lines.
College Grove, TN 37046, USA
When Williamson County was first founded in 1799, College Grove was one of its first towns. Its historic ties give way to a slew of local landmarksand a solid history of legendary proportions.
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Franklin, TN, USA
Not just one of the best small towns near Nashville, Franklin has been listed as one of America's best small towns across the board - but here in Nashville, we know why. This is a solid bit of suburbia with great schools and historic homes, rife with locals, and a darling downtown that speaks to the beauty of Franklin's history.
Tennessee, USA
Located on State Route 25, Cottontown has a mere 367 residents. This sweet spot is perfect for a lazy country drive with the windows down in summertime. (Note: the image above is not of Cottonwood, rather a spot in rural Tennessee).
Ashland City, TN 37015, USA
Located WAY down highway 40, Ashland City is a nod to the country Nashville likes to so quickly forget. Buy up some land and have a couple of kids - they'll love running through open fields in one of the best small towns outside of Nashville.
Leipers Fork, TN 37064, USA
Tiny Leipers Fork is home to the FIRST Puckett's Grocery and a couple of miles of darling, winding country road. Their downtown is tiny and cute, a real throwback to early Tennessee, making it one of the best small towns around Nashville.
White House, TN, USA
Only twenty-two miles north of the city, White House is not far and is quite easy to commute from, if you're looking. The friendly atmosphere and down-home country vibe are great for an out-of-towner — or simply those who want to be treated well.
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Nolensville, TN 37135, USA
One of the most charming of all small Nashville townsNolensville is perfect for antiquing and a great cup of coffee. Even better, Nolensville is hardly half an hour from Music City but provides the greatest bit of time away from it all.
Watertown, TN 37184, USA
Historic Watertown is just short of 1500 inhabitants and all sorts of cute. Visit during their annual jazz festival and grab a slice of pizza, or take the train and enjoy an evening in one of the most charming small towns around Nashville, TN.
Spring Hill, TN, USA
Spring Hill has recently exploded with a burgeoning job market and a whole slew of transplants. That doesn't mean you can't enjoy a bit of community, though - there's nothing that'll bond you more than a bit of change.
Dickson, TN, USA
Home to the Hotel Halbrook Railroad & Local History Museum and a downtown so sweet it stings, Dickson is a popular place for affordable housing and a close-knit community.
Greenbrier, TN 37073, USA
A quaint town known for great autumnal coloring and going strong since 1937, Greenbrier is a hidden Tennessee gem. You have the opportunity to enjoy a solid proximity to Nashville, but can enjoy a small town feel as well.
Goodlettsville, TN, USA
Located just outside of Nashville, Goodlettsville is a great spot for growing families looking for suburbia with a country spin. You'll definitely find a solid bit of goodwill and kindness amongst these folks.
Adams, TN, USA
Known for its ghostly Bell Witch Cave, Adams is actually a sweet town on its own. Tucked in the woody, green-infused bit of Tennessee you'd probably just drive through on a normal day; however, as one of the best small towns near Nashville, it's worth a visit on its own.
Wartrace, TN 37183, USA
Once known as Wartrace Depot, the historic small town is well known for its small population (less than 600 folks!) and its spot in Civil War lore, as it served as the winter headquarters for Confederate General William J. Hardee in 1862. We're not messing around with this little place - Wartrace may be small, but what an intense story it has.
Lebanon, TN, USA
The Nashville suburb of Lebanon is great when it comes to a quality way of life and great smattering of schools and parks for your littles. Their historic downtown is darling, and the whole town buzzes with kindness and goodwill.
Springfield, TN 37172, USA
Numbered at 16,478 inhabitants, Springfield a stone's throw from Music City but absolutely in a different REALM when it comes to small town cute. Just take a walk through their downtown and enjoy a moment to yourself driving the back roads — you'll fall in love.
So, what do you think? Are these the best small towns near Nashville, TN? Did you know about these Nashville-area towns? Did we miss your favorite small town near Nashville? Whatever it is, tell us!
If you’re still looking for some interesting things to do around the city, we suggest checking out these unique things to do in Nashville. And if you’re interested in hanging out for the weekend, consider a stay at the Sheraton Grand Nashville Downtown.
If you’re still in the mood for more Tennessee adventures, take a look at this video:
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More to Explore
Out and About Near Nashville
Where can we find historic Civil War sites near Nashville?
- The Travellers Rest Historic House Museum was the headquarters of Confederate General John Bell Hood during the Battle of Nashville.
- Fort Negley as built by Union troops after they commandeered the city in victory in 1862.
- Shy's Hill played a key role in the Battle of Nashville as it is where the Union forces defeated the Confederate army.
Read on to learn more about some of the many other fascinating historic Civil War sites in Nashville.
What are some fun facts about Nashville?
- The Tennessee Capital Building is one of the oldest still operating capitals in the U.S.
- Over 200 Elvis songs were recorded at Nashville’s RCA Studio B.
- The only scale replica of the Greek Parthenon is in Centennial Park.
Read on to learn more about some of the many other fun facts about Nashville.
Where can we find river towns in Tennessee?
- Tiptonville, located between the Mississippi River and Blue Basin has managed to maintain its small-town ambiance since its early founding.
- Chattanooga is one of the state’s favorite river towns, although it is really considered to be a “big city.”
- Clifton is a charming little town set alongside the Tennessee River and a big draw for those desiring to get away from it all.
Read on to learn more about some of the other beautiful river towns in Tennessee.