Jonesborough, Tennessee is a town with a rich history and an abundance of sights to explore. Established in 1779 as the state’s first capital, it was named in honor of North Carolina statesman Willie Jones. In its early days, the town was home to many prominent families who lived on plantations and owned their own stores. Today, visitors can experience what life was like for these early settlers through a variety of museums and historic sites.
The town offers plenty of attractions for those wanting to learn about its past. History buffs will enjoy touring The International Storytelling Center where tales from around the world are told. Historic Downtown Jonesborough boasts some of the oldest buildings in the state including two churches built before 1800 and more than 30 other structures that date back to the late 1700s. For something more modern, stop by McKinney Center Arts & Heritage which features exhibits highlighting local artisanship, music, and culture.