Rogersville: Discover History and Culture

When looking for a hotel in Rogersville, you can plan your stay around the topics that interest you: historic architecture, educational and printing history, a self-guided tour, or a festival in October.

Historic Buildings and Architecture

Hale Springs Inn was built in 1824 as an inn along a stagecoach route and is known for its prominent former guests, including U.S. presidents. Rogersville Depot was built under the influence of Gothic Revival architecture and still has its original hardwood floors. The Hawkins County Courthouse in Rogersville was built in 1836. It is one of six antebellum courthouses in Tennessee that are still in use.

Printing and Educational History

The Tennessee Newspaper and Printing Museum displays a replica of the 1791 Roulstone newspaper, printed on the museum’s press. This brings together the historical date of the newspaper and the actual replica: for planning purposes, it is a distinct focus alongside Rogersville’s architecture. The 1791 newspaper predates the two historic buildings, Hale Springs Inn (1824) and the Courthouse (1836).

Swift Memorial College offered a four-year curriculum and closed in 1955. The Swift Museum & Price Public School is housed in a restored building that now serves as a memorial museum for the college. This makes it possible to distinguish the college’s educational history from its later commemoration.

Walking Tour, Park, and Event

In the historic downtown, you can see Federal-style buildings on a self-guided tour. Swift Park has a walking and jogging trail, as well as a sound garden with specially made outdoor percussion instruments. The park brings together exercise and an offering centered on sound, while the tour focuses on historic buildings.

Heritage Days takes place every October in Rogersville and celebrates local history and Appalachian culture. Thomas Amis Historic Site offers tours and a visitor center; food is also part of the visitor experience. Food options may change, so check them before your trip. Heritage Days takes place every October; the 2026 events calendar lists Cruise-In on the Square on Main Street in downtown Rogersville. Check the dates before your trip.

Find a Hotel in Rogersville

Hale Springs Inn has nine guest rooms and suites, all with private bathrooms. The number of rooms may change, so check specific availability before booking. When looking for a hotel in Rogersville, you can match your interests in local history, architecture, education, or events with your preferred travel dates.

Discover more destinations: Bulls Gap.

Return to the main travel overview: Hawkins County.