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Taste the genuine flavors of Appalachia on a guided food tour through Tennessee’s oldest town, Jonesborough. Enjoy artisan shopping, storytelling, and live performances paired with savory local cuisine.
Taste the genuine flavors of Appalachia on a guided food tour through Tennessee’s oldest town, Jonesborough. Enjoy artisan shopping, storytelling, and live performances paired with savory local cuisine.
Book with Knoxville Food Tours
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Knoxville Food Tours · Jonesborough, Tennessee
Jonesborough, Tennessee's oldest town, offers an experience that connects rich Appalachian culinary traditions with deep-rooted local history through the Jonesborough Food Tours, hosted by Knoxville Food Tours. Known as America’s storytelling capital, Jonesborough invites visitors to walk through cobblestone streets and down shaded paths where past and present mingle in lively flavors and engaging tales.
The tours last around three hours, inviting food lovers to savor authentic Appalachian dishes carefully selected to reflect the region’s heritage. Each bite is paired with stories from the town’s formative years, enriching the palate with history as much as flavor. Local artisan markets punctuate the route, giving guests a chance to acquire handmade crafts that reflect the culture and craftsmanship of East Tennessee.
Jonesborough’s unique setting includes hidden gardens and small parks revealing quiet pockets of nature amid the historic downtown streets. The tours often include stops that surprise guests with intimate performances or storytelling events that spotlight local voices and traditions. These immersive vignettes provide cultural context, forging a memorable connection between the land, people, and cuisine.
At day’s end, visitors can unwind at nearby cozy bed and breakfasts, a perfect complement to the spirited adventures of the day. Knoxville Food Tours has crafted a trip that stands apart by linking the sensory appeal of food with a broader cultural narrative, making Jonesborough an irresistible destination for travelers craving a blend of nature, heritage, and savory Appalachian flavors.
This isn’t just a food tour—it’s a journey into the heart of Tennessee’s oldest town, where every meal reveals a story and every path leads to discovery.
easy.
3 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves moderate walking on paved and garden paths.
The tour lasts approximately three hours, allowing ample time to sample local foods and experience the town’s culture.
Yes, your ticket covers all food tastings and gratuities at the restaurants visited during the tour.
While there is no strict age limit, the tour is best suited for adults and older children who can comfortably walk and appreciate historical context.
Yes, please inform Knoxville Food Tours in advance so they can cater to allergies or special dietary needs.
Tours begin at the International Storytelling Center, located at 100 W. Main St., Jonesborough, TN.
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a reusable water bottle are recommended for the best experience.
Jonesborough was founded in 1779 and is Tennessee's oldest town, famed for its pivotal role in Appalachian storytelling traditions.
Efforts to preserve Jonesborough’s historic district and public green spaces ensure that the cultural and natural heritage remain protected for future visitors.
Knoxville Food Tours showcases Knoxville, Tennessee’s culinary and cultural highlights through guided tasting experiences. The company offers two distinct routes: the signature Knoxville Food Tours, an award-winning city tasting led by local historian Paula Johnson, and the Jonesborough Food Tours, a guided exploration of Tennessee’s oldest town focused on Appalachian flavors and local history. Each tour pairs curated tastings with contextual storytelling, neighborhood exploration, and connections to independent shops and artisans. Tours are designed for guests who want informed, walkable experiences. The Knoxville Food Tours itinerary features historic sites, flavorful tastings at iconic restaurants, and exclusive perks at local shops. The Jonesborough Food Tours combines artisan shopping, storytelling events, hidden garden visits, live performances, and the option to enjoy a cozy bed-and-breakfast stay as part of the experience. Both trips emphasize regional ingredients and the stories behind them. Guides include local experts such as Paula Johnson, whose background in local history adds depth to tastings and neighborhood narratives. Knoxville Food Tours works directly with restaurants and shops in Knoxville and Jonesborough to arrange tastings and guest benefits. The company’s public reputation highlights an award-winning Knoxville Food Tours offering dependable logistics, approachable pacing, and a focus on community connections. For travelers seeking a concise, informative culinary introduction to East Tennessee, Knoxville Food Tours provides accessible, small-group outings that combine food, history, and local culture in two well-defined destinations. Tours operate in Knoxville and Jonesborough and highlight local restaurants, artisans, and cultural venues. Reservations and schedules are listed by Knoxville Food Tours.
Book with Knoxville Food Tours