Spending some time in Franklin, Tennessee but aren’t sure what activities to add to your itinerary? There are plenty of fun and exciting (not to mention historical) things to do in this vibrant town.
From taking a walk down Main Street, to touring several civil war memorial sites, this town is bursting with history and iconic American charm. Continue along as I share some of my favorite activities and attractions to add to your Franklin, Tennessee itinerary during your next visit.
Stroll Down Main Street
You can make an entire day just strolling up and down Franklin’s historic Main Street. Lined with small shops, local boutiques, and unique home goods, the possibilities are endless. As you meander, see if you recognize any places from movies like “At Close Range” starring Sean Penn, or the “Hannah Montana: The Movie.” Justin Beiber even filmed a music video in downtown Franklin!
Grab Brunch
All that shopping and walking will surely make you hungry, so grab a seat at one of the many adorable brunch spots in Franklin. Ruby Sunshine is right in the main square, so the breakfast comes with a healthy side of people watching. Definitely start your brunch with the candied bacon and wash it all down with one of its signature cocktails, like its award-winning bloody mary or mimosa flight.
Around the corner is the favorite Biscuit Love restaurant. There is one located in the Gulch area of downtown Nashville that has insanely long lines, but the location in Franklin doesn’t get as busy. The biscuits are homemade, but don’t miss the Bonuts — fried biscuit dough tossed in sugar and topped with lemon mascarpone. And if the experience leaves you craving more biscuits, you can take a half dozen of them home with you.
Hunt for Ghosts
If you’re brave enough, take to the streets at night for one of Franklin’s historic ghost walking tours. Learn about the town’s dramatic past during the Civil War and see if you can find any lingering spirits in town.
There’s said to be a socialite, war heroes, and even criminals still hanging around. If you’re really brave, visit in October when reenactors tell stories from beyond the grave in a local cemetery.
First Friday Art Crawl
Every first Friday of the month, downtown Franklin hosts the First Friday Art Crawl. Created to celebrate local artists of all kinds, the free event takes place along Main Street, in its shops and even churches.
The family-friendly art crawl features live music, artists, both novice and established, and small bites. If your trip to Franklin falls on the first Friday of the month, this event is not to be missed.
Read a Book
Housed in the oldest commercial building still standing in Franklin, Landmark Booksellers is the place to grab a book with a dose of history. The building was built in the early 1800s and was once known as the Old Factory Store, seeing visitors live Davy Crockett and Andrew Jackson.
The building has housed everything from banks to restaurants and even an officers’ club. It opened as a bookstore in 2005 by a local couple with deep roots in the community.
Seek Out a Hidden Speakeasy
Rooted in the 1920s, Amendment XVIII Cocktail Club is an anti-prohibition speakeasy in the heart of Franklin. Enter through the alley behind Mellow Mushroom in the main town square. It’s an unassuming door leading to a small hallway. Find the switch and turn it. If a green light appears, it means there is room inside; a red light means the speakeasy is full.
Known for its cocktails with unique names, don’t miss out on the Old Pal, a twist on the classic Manhattan or the Daisy Chain, which is basically an orange creamsicle in a glass. Nosh on small bites, like the BBQ meatballs, while sipping your drink.
Attend a Festival
Festivals on Franklin’s Main Street are beloved yearly traditions for locals and visitors alike. One of the most popular is the Dickens of a Christmas taking place every December. Characters and musicians wander the streets recreating the time of Charles Dickens.
There is also the Pumpkinfest in October celebrating all things fall, complete with a “guess the weight of the pumpkin” game. And in the spring, there is the Main Street festival where everyone gathers to celebrate the storybook Main Street and all of its small town charm.
Tour Civil War Landmarks
Having played a pivotal role in the Civil War, Franklin is the place to visit for history buffs. The Carnton Plantation was established in the 1800s and was the site of one of the bloodiest battles in the war. The home there turned into a makeshift hospital for wounded soldiers.
The nearby Carter House, built in 1830, was once a successful farm, but in 1864, found itself at the center of the Battle of Franklin. Many people sought refuge inside the house. After the war ravaged the home, the Carter family worked for decades to restore it to its former glory. The state of Tennessee bought the house in the 1950s and opened it to the public.
Factory at Franklin
Once a stove manufacturing plant, the Factory at Franklin is now a hip meeting just north of the main square. Inside the historic building, you’ll find boutique shops, locally-owned dining, and even a theater featuring local talent.
In Franklin for the weekend? Don’t miss the weekly Franklin Farmers Market in the parking lot every Saturday morning. The market features local meats, dairy, and produce, plus handmade crafts from local artists.
Meet Farm Animals
A favorite family outing is visiting Noble Springs Dairy, The family-owned farm and Artisanal Goat Cheese operation allows you to pet baby goats and learn about the cheesemaking princess. A favorite event is Goats and Guitars.
Select weekend nights, the farm has live music and baby goats for cuddling. Pre-pay for a homemade charcuterie board or bring your own picnic. The dairy has plenty of green space for kids to run around and play. Plus, cuddling baby goats is always a fun activity.
Take in a Show
In the middle of Main Street sits the historic Franklin Theatre. The place opened in the late 1930s as the first air conditioned building on Main Street, showing movies and Vaudeville shows for more than seven decades.
The theater closed in the early 2000s due to rising costs, but was eventually bought by the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County. The nonprofit refurbished the theater and reopened it to the public. Today, it’s home to movies and live music shows.