Jonesborough, Tennessee's oldest town, has retained its charming Main Street.

One Amazing Story--Jonesborough

Coast to a stop at the crest of Main Street's gentle hill just outside town, and look down upon this striking village in northeast Tennessee. American flags furl and flap on nearly every building. A quaint wooden gazebo shades mustachioed band members, working out the oompahs of a Sousa march. Giggling children dart in and out of an ice-cream parlor. Couples stroll along the street, holding hands and ducking into unique shops. And everyone everywhere seems to know one another.

Make your first stop the Blair-Moore House Bed & Breakfast. Its austere Federal facade hides a bounty of surprises, not the least of which are the two charming owners, Jack and Tami Moore. Jack's gardening and woodworking skills will entertain like-minded folk for hours. Tami may make the world's best breakfast (don't miss her fluffy muffins). For a non-B&B option, try the Eureka Hotel next door. A large, inviting front porch begs to be used to bid the sun farewell each day.

Left: Yarn spinner extraordinaire, Gladys Coggswell delights visitors with tall tales at the International Storytelling Center. Right: Let a horse-drawn surrey take you on a 35-minute narrated tour of historic Jonesborough for just $15.

By the way, park the car, and leave your keys in the room. Jonesborough is laid out as God intended: with everything on or near Main Street. The International Storytelling Center makes a fun afternoon--listening to tall tales told live by colorful characters. There are other performances in town as well. Most Friday nights this time of year bring Music On The Square, an event that showcases regional bands and closes the road to all but foot traffic. Amble down the street, and browse shops such as the Jonesborough Antique Mart, the Jonesborough Art Glass Gallery, and The Celtic Cupboard.

For meals, try Bistro 105, a former post office that now delivers gourmet salads, pastas, and desserts. Don't miss an inexpensive ($2.50) breakfast of eggs, toast, potatoes, and bacon at The Cranberry Thistle, a perfect small-town gathering place where chatty gossips come to dish. Bring your ears and appetite, and you'll leave town with a great story.

Two hundred artists sell blown-glass bowls, pottery, and jewelry at the Jonesborough Art Glass Gallery.