HereWeGo
June 2, 2026 • 3 min read
Explore Jonesborough, the oldest town in Tennessee, and delve into its rich history and culture through captivating storytelling tours.
Jonesborough: Tennessee's Historic Town
Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Jonesborough boasts the unspoiled charm of a small town with just under 6,000 residents. As you step into this quaint locale, you'll be greeted by red brick shops lining Main Street, beckoning you to stop and explore. The buildings here are authentic, not slick recreations, featuring worn limestone steps and peculiar proportions that you won't find in modern areas.
The Fascinating History of Jonesborough
Founded in 1779 under the patronage of North Carolina, Jonesborough is the oldest town in Tennessee. The world at that time was a vastly different place, as Tennessee itself had yet to be established. The town is named after Willie Jones, a North Carolina politician who advocated for westward settlement. Briefly, it served as the capital of the state of Franklin from 1784 to 1785, with a political narrative far more complex than the usual frontier tales.
Exploring Local Culture
A stroll around the historic downtown can take less than an hour, but many visitors find themselves spending the whole afternoon exploring charming shops, admiring local crafts at the Old Town Emporium inside the Visitor Center, or sipping coffee at the Corner Company Beverage Emporium.
With its relaxed pace, Jonesborough is the perfect place to immerse yourself in local culture. Beyond shops and cafes, you can join guided tours led by costumed storytellers.
The Jonesborough History Museum
The Jonesborough-Washington County History Museum is an intriguing stop. It houses a wealth of artifacts, old newspapers, and photographs related to the area's social and economic history. Not just a display space, the museum serves as a true archive, offering rich resources to help you understand the town's past.
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The Storytelling Capital of the World
Jonesborough proudly claims the title of the Storytelling Capital of the World. Here, the International Storytelling Center plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting storytelling culture. They host numerous events every Tuesday and feature a Teller-in-Residence program where you can enjoy vibrant storytelling performances.
National Storytelling Festival
Every October, the National Storytelling Festival takes place in Jonesborough, attracting participants from far and wide. In 2026, this will mark the 52nd occurrence of the event, featuring over 20 storytellers performing. If you plan to visit during this time, be sure to book your accommodations in advance to not miss out on this unique experience.
Helpful Information for Vietnamese Travelers
To reach Jonesborough, you can book flights from major cities in Vietnam, such as Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) or Hanoi (HAN), to Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA). From there, you can rent a car or use shuttle services to get to the town. Jonesborough is located in the Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5), so keep this in mind when planning your trip. A visa to enter the United States is required and can take some time to obtain, so prepare early.
Prices for services in Jonesborough are quite reasonable, with an average meal costing around 200,000 VND, making it accessible for many travelers. If you have a passion for history and culture, a visit to Jonesborough will undoubtedly provide you with enriching and memorable experiences.
This article references information from: Touropia
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