Welcome to Franklin, Tennessee – a charming city with natural scenic beauty. If you’re wondering what to do in Franklin today, tomorrow, or next year you’re in the right place! Here are some fun-filled activities that you can do while exploring this beautiful city.
Franklin, TN is located 25 minutes from Nashville, Tennessee by car.
Recommended stay 1 or 2 nights. Franklin is also a great day trip from Nashville.
Finding Things to Do in Franklin, Tennessee for the Outdoorsy:
1) Explore Natchez Trace Parkway:
A scenic drive through the breathtaking Natchez Trace Parkway offers visitors a glimpse of the history of the region.
For those who love the outdoors, you can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks.
Natchez is a vacation alone and requires some trip planning. Stay tuned for a future post. In the meantime, please visit the Natchez Trace Parkway Official site for mile markers and details for trip planning details.
2) Timberland Park Attractions:
If you’re looking for some outdoor fun, head to Timberland Park.
Timberland Park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
Timberland Park is located – at Mile Marker, 437.2 Natchez Trace Pkwy, Franklin, TN 37064
3) Soar Adventure Tower:
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, head to Soar Adventure Tower.
The Soar Adventure Tower has over 100 climbing elements. This fun attraction offers a thrilling experience for all ages. Unless you are afraid of heights!
Soar Adventure also offers 18-hole mini golf.
Twilight passes are available for purchase for a budget-friendly activity.
Address: 3794 Carothers Pkwy, Franklin, TN 37067 – Website Here.
Historical Attractions in Franklin, TN:
1) Visit Lotz House Museum:
This historic house museum offers visitors an immersive experience of the Civil War era. The house was built in 1858 and served as a field hospital during the Battle of Franklin.
This attraction is often on Groupon, so check there first for money-saving opportunities.
2) The Historical Carter House:
A visit to Carter House provides a glimpse into the life of a Civil War-era family.
The Carter house was built in 1830. Here guests will see the site of one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War.
3) Walk the Franklin Historic District:
Downtown Franklin is home to over 70 historic buildings that date back to the mid-19th century.
Guests can book a walking tour. A walking tour is the best way to learn about the history and architecture of the district.
Top Things to Do Downtown Franklin, TN
1) Shop at Franklin Farmers Market:
The Franklin Farmers Market is a local favorite and offers a variety of fresh produce, artisanal products, and more. Located on Main Street, this market is a great place to experience the local culture.
2) Shop on Main Street in Franklin, Tennessee Today:
Downtown Franklin’s Main Street is home to a variety of unique shops, boutiques, and galleries.
Find everything from handmade jewelry and clothing to antiques and home decor.
3) Enjoy local cuisine in Downtown Franklin, TN Today:
Downtown Franklin is home to a variety of restaurants and cafes that offer a taste of the local cuisine. From Southern comfort food to international cuisine, there is something for every taste bud.
4) Take a ghost tour of Downtown Franklin, TN:
Downtown Franklin is known for its haunted history, and several tour companies offer ghost tours that take visitors to some of the most haunted spots in the district.
5) Attend a live music performance:
Franklin is home to several venues that host live music performances, including the historic Franklin Theatre and Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant.
Unique Things to Do in Franklin, TN:
1) Visit The Noble Springs Dairy:
This family-owned dairy farm offers visitors an opportunity to experience the local farm life. You can learn about the milking process, sample dairy products, and interact with farm animals.
2) Check-Out The Fork Distillery in Franklin, TN today:
A visit to Fork Distillery provides an opportunity to sample some of the finest whiskeys in the region. The distillery offers tours and tastings, and visitors can also purchase their favorite spirits.
3) Mistletoe Farm Alpacas:
Who doesn’t love alpacas? Nothing more needs to be written!
Address: 4212 Crowder Rd, Franklin, TN 37064
Events and Festivals Held in Franklin, Tennessee:
1) Main Street Festival:
The Main Street Festival is a family-friendly event that takes place in downtown Franklin. The festival features live music, artisan vendors, food trucks, and more.
April 22-23, 2023 Saturday: 10 AM – 6 PM & Sunday: 10 AM – 6 PM
2) Pilgrimage Music Festival:
If you’re a music lover, you won’t want to miss the Pilgrimage Music Festival. This annual festival features top-notch music performances, local food vendors, and more.
Pilgrimage Music Festival Event Held September 23rd & 24th 2023
3) Dickens of a Christmas:
This holiday festival takes place every December. Dickens of a Christmas features costumed characters, live entertainment, food vendors, and more.
4) Wine Down Main Street:
This annual event takes place every fall and features wine tastings from local vineyards, food vendors, and live music.
Date: Saturday, November 4, 2023
Time: 7:00– 10 PM
5) Bluegrass Along the Harpeth:
This annual event takes place every spring, and features live bluegrass music performances, food vendors, and more.
Bluegrass along the Harpeth held in July.
6) Fourth of July Celebration:
Franklin celebrates Independence Day with a parade, live music, food vendors, and fireworks.
These are just a few of the many events and festivals that take place in Franklin, TN throughout the year.
Check the Franklin, TN events calendar to find out what events are happening during your visit.
Most Popular Places to Eat in Franklin, TN:
Franklin, TN has a thriving food scene that offers everything from classic Southern cuisine to international flavors. Here are some of the most popular places to eat in Franklin: (Source ChatGPT)
- Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant – First, Puckett’s is a Southern-style restaurant that offers a variety of comfort foods, including barbecue, fried chicken, and meatloaf. They also host live music performances in the evenings. Address: 120 4th Ave S, Franklin, TN 37064
- Gray’s on Main – Second, Gray’s is a historic building that has been converted into a restaurant and bar. Gray’s on Main offers a variety of Southern-inspired dishes and cocktails. Important to note, that live music is often held on the weekends. Address: 332 Main St, Franklin, TN 37064
- 55 South – Thirdly, 55 South is a New Orleans-inspired restaurant that offers a variety of Cajun and Creole dishes, as well as seafood and steaks. They also have a great selection of cocktails and beers. Address: 403 Main St, Franklin, TN 37064
- Cork & Cow – Next up, Cork & Cow is a high-end steakhouse that offers a variety of prime beef cuts, as well as seafood, pasta, and salads. Cork & Cow also has an extensive wine list. Address: 403 Main St, Franklin, TN 37064
- Red Pony Restaurant – Red Pony is a contemporary American restaurant that offers a variety of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. They also have an extensive wine and cocktail list.
- Merridee’s Breadbasket – Merridee’s is a bakery and cafe that offers a variety of baked goods, sandwiches, and salads. Merridees is known for its homemade bread and cinnamon rolls. Address: 110 4th Ave S, Franklin, TN 37064
For even more travel details and a downloadable trip planner,
visit Franklin, TN official.
Where to stay in Franklin, Tennessee:
The Harpeth Franklin Downtown!
Looking For more Southern Travel Inspiration: Check out
99 Things to do in Chattanooga, Tennessee:
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