The Oldest Town In Tennessee Is Perfect For A Historic Appalachian Autumn Getaway

There's something special about fall in historic east coast towns. Color-changing trees line old, storied streets surrounded by charming buildings that call to mind a time long past. North Carolina has Hendersonville, overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains, upstate New York offers historic railroads amid the Catskill Mountains, and Tennessee is the ultimate spot to enjoy gorgeous Appalachian Mountain views.

In the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Jonesborough, also known as the "Storytelling Capital of the World," is more than Tennessee's oldest town — it's a place where history comes to life. Founded in 1779, this historic town welcomes you with cobblestone walkways, 18th-century architecture, and a sense of community. Arguably, the town's scenic beauty is at its peak as the leaves turn to gold and crimson in late October.

Getting here is easy. The town is an hour drive from Asheville, North Carolina, under two hours from Knoxville, and just a 20-minute drive from Johnson City, making it easy to plan a scenic and accessible drive through the rolling Appalachian countryside. If you're flying in, the Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) is a small regional airport 15 miles north of Jonesborough that connects to major hubs including Atlanta (ATL) and Dallas-Forth Worth (DFW). Once you arrive in town, the pace slows, the air cools, and history seems to whisper through every brick and porch swing.

Autumn is Jonesborough's season to shine. The National Storytelling Festival, held each October, fills the town with laughter, music, and tales that stretch from mountain folklore to modern fables. The festival's roots date back to 1973, when locals would come together to share tales of Appalachia. It's since grown to an event that draws 10,000 listeners from all over to hear masterfully told stories from those of all walks of life.

Even outside festival season, storytelling is part of everyday life here — especially at the International Storytelling Center and the Chester Inn State Historic Site and Museum, where guides bring the town's 18th-century roots to life. Beyond the stories, there's plenty to explore. Take a historic walking tour or wander through the Jonesborough-Washington County History Museum. Families can spend the day at Wetlands Water Park or Brights Zoo, while nature lovers will find peace on local trails that weave through the Appalachian foothills.

When it's time to rest, Jonesborough's inns and bed-and-breakfasts combine hospitality with history. The Chester Inn, built in 1797, once served as a gathering place for travelers swapping stories by lamplight. While you can no longer stay at The Chester, The Eureka Hotel, built the same year, continues that tradition with timeless charm. Other favorites include the Franklin House and Jonesborough Bed and Breakfast – cozy stays that average between $120 and $200 a night, depending on the season.

The town's cobblestone streets lead to a mix of local treasures. Browse hand-crafted goods at Mill Spring Makers Market, vintage finds at Jonesborough Antiques, and locally sourced fare at Boone Street Market. Stop into the Crystal Raven for a bit of Appalachian magic, or Mauk's of Jonesborough for gifts that capture the town's creative spirit. No visit is complete without a meal downtown. Start your morning at the Olde Towne Pancake House, grab lunch at Main Street Café, and finish the day with a stop at the Old Town Dairy Bar. Don't forget to visit the Lollipop Shop for a sweet souvenir.