Visit Us

The International Storytelling Center (ISC) is located in the heart of downtown Jonesborough, at 100 W. Main Street. The ISC campus consists of the historic Chester Inn, which houses most of our offices, and the Mary B. Martin Storytelling Hall, which includes performance and events spaces, our information desk, exhibits, and the ISC gift shop.

While our work is year round, the so-called “storytelling season” for live programming is May through October, with special events scattered throughout the remainder of the year. The National Storytelling Festival is always the first weekend in October. We also host a live concert series, Storytelling Live!, featuring matinee concerts almost every day, May through October.

About Jonesborough

Known affectionately as the storytelling capital of the world, Jonesborough launched the world’s storytelling renaissance. Tucked away in the Appalachian Mountains, Tennessee’s oldest town offers historic charm, modern services, and first-rate hospitality.

Learn more about Historic Jonesborough.

Can’t visit in person anytime soon? No problem—we teamed up with our friends at Google to create this virtual tour.

Unique Gifts for Everyone

Our Gift Shop features a wide selection of storytelling books, journals, CDs, and other resources. The gift shop also features unique and handmade items including artwork, bath products, ceramics, garden accessories, housewares, wood and paper products, fabric and pottery, stationery, and toys for children of all ages. Don’t forget to pick up a keepsake of your trip to ISC from our line of souvenir items! Shop for t-shirts, blankets, hand puppets, books, mugs, and more!

International Storytelling Center Hours

Monday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Sunday: closed