10 Fun Things To Do Near Franklin, Tennessee (Williamson County)
If you’re dreaming about a Southern getaway that feels cozy, historic, and just a little bit fancy,
Franklin, Tennessee should be on your list. This charming town in
Williamson County sits just south of Nashville and offers the perfect mix of history, food, music, and small‑town charm.
Whether you’re planning a weekend trip, a family vacation, or a quick day trip from Nashville, here are
10 awesome things to do near Franklin, TN that will keep you busy—and smiling.
1. Stroll Historic Downtown Franklin
Downtown Franklin feels like you’ve stepped onto a movie set. The streets are lined with
19th‑century buildings, locally owned shops, and cozy restaurants. It’s walkable, relaxed, and very photogenic.
What to do downtown:
- Browse boutiques along Main Street
- Grab coffee at a local café and people‑watch
- Check out the old Franklin Theatre marquee
- Pop into antique stores for vintage finds
If you love small‑town vibes with big personality, this is your starting point. Park once, then wander. You’ll probably end up staying longer than you planned.
2. Tour the Carnton House & Battlefield
Franklin played a major role in the
Civil War, and one of the best places to understand that history is
Carnton. This historic home served as a field hospital during the
Battle of Franklin in 1864.
On a guided tour, you’ll:
- Walk through the house and see blood‑stained floors still visible from the war
- Hear powerful stories of soldiers and the family who lived there
- Visit the adjacent McGavock Confederate Cemetery
Even if you’re not a history buff, the stories are emotional and eye‑opening. Plan about 1.5 to 2 hours here, and wear comfortable shoes for walking the grounds.
3. Step Back in Time at Carter House
Just a short drive from Carnton, you’ll find the
Carter House, another key site tied to the Battle of Franklin. This modest farmhouse was right in the middle of the fighting.
Here you can:
- See buildings marked by hundreds of bullet holes
- Learn how the Carter family hid in the basement while the battle raged
- Get a close look at the front lines of one of the war’s bloodiest battles
If you’re visiting Franklin for its history, pairing
Carnton and
Carter House in one day gives you a powerful, complete picture of what happened here.
4. Drive the Natchez Trace Parkway
Looking for a peaceful drive with beautiful views? The
Natchez Trace Parkway runs right through Williamson County, just west of Franklin. It’s a scenic, slow‑paced road managed by the National Park Service—no billboards, just trees, hills, and sky.
Along the parkway near Franklin you can:
- Stop at scenic overlooks for photos
- Walk short trails to old historic sites
- Enjoy a roadside picnic
Don’t miss the
Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge (often called the Double Arch Bridge). It offers amazing views, especially around sunrise or sunset. If you love fall foliage, this drive is pure magic in October and November.
5. Sip and Relax at Arrington Vineyards
About 20–25 minutes from downtown Franklin, you’ll find
Arrington Vineyards, co‑owned by country music artist
Kix Brooks. It’s set on rolling hills and feels like a Tennessee version of wine country.
What you can do there:
- Sample wines in a casual tasting
- Bring a blanket and sit out on the lawn
- Pack a picnic or grab snacks on site
- Catch live music on select days, especially in warmer months
Families, couples, and groups of friends all hang out here. It’s one of the best relaxing things to do near Franklin on a sunny afternoon.
6. Explore The Factory at Franklin
Just a mile or so from downtown,
The Factory at Franklin is a former industrial complex turned into a creative hub. It’s part shopping center, part food hall, part event space.
Inside you’ll find:
- Local shops selling art, gifts, and home decor
- Cafés and restaurants for a quick bite
- Occasional markets, concerts, and special events
The building keeps its old factory charm—think exposed brick, big windows, and polished concrete. It’s a great place to wander if the weather isn’t ideal or you just want an easy indoor stroll.
7. Catch a Show at the Franklin Theatre
Right on Main Street, the restored
Franklin Theatre is one of the town’s gems. First opened in 1937, it has been lovingly brought back to life and is now a cozy, classy venue.
Depending on the night, you might:
- Watch a classic movie
- Hear live music—from local acts to big‑name artists
- See a comedy show or special event
The theater is small enough that every seat feels close to the stage. If you’re planning a trip to Franklin, it’s worth checking their schedule in advance and booking tickets for a show.
8. Shop, Eat, and Wander in Leiper’s Fork
Just a short drive from Franklin, the little village of
Leiper’s Fork feels like something out of a country song. It’s tiny, but packed with charm.
In Leiper’s Fork you can:
- Browse art galleries and unique shops
- Listen to live music at local spots, especially in the evenings
- Enjoy hearty Southern food at laid‑back restaurants
- Walk around and soak in the rural scenery
The drive out from Franklin is beautiful on its own—rolling hills, old barns, and scenic backroads. If you want to experience the
countryside side of Williamson County, this is the place.
9. Visit Harlinsdale Farm & Franklin’s Parks
Need some fresh air? Franklin is full of green spaces, but
Harlinsdale Farm is one of the most popular. This former horse farm turned city park sits right across from The Factory at Franklin.
At Harlinsdale you can:
- Walk wide open fields and trails
- See historic barns and farm buildings
- Let kids burn off energy on the grass
- Watch dogs play at the dog park
Each year, the park also hosts
Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival, which draws big-name artists and crowds from all over. Even if you’re not here for a festival, it’s a peaceful spot for a walk, jog, or simple picnic.
Other nice nearby parks include:
10. Experience Local Flavor on a Franklin Food & Coffee Crawl
Franklin’s food and coffee scene may surprise you. For a town its size, there’s a lot of flavor packed into a few blocks. You can easily turn a day here into your own little
Franklin food tour.
Ideas for a DIY crawl:
- Start with breakfast at a local café or biscuit spot
- Grab a mid‑morning latte at one of Franklin’s coffee shops
- Enjoy Southern comfort food or barbecue for lunch
- Finish with dessert or ice cream before heading back to your hotel
It’s a fun way to explore downtown—eat a little, walk a little, repeat. And if you’re traveling with friends or family, everyone can pick a “must‑try” spot.
Final Tips for Visiting Franklin, Tennessee
To make the most of your trip to
Franklin and Williamson County, keep these simple tips in mind:
- Stay downtown if you can: You’ll be walking distance from shops, restaurants, and the Franklin Theatre.
- Plan at least one history stop: Carnton or Carter House (or both) really help you understand this area.
- Leave time for the countryside: A drive to Leiper’s Fork or along the Natchez Trace is worth it.
- Check event calendars: Festivals, live music, and special events can add something extra to your visit.
What Would You Do First in Franklin?
Would you start with a lazy afternoon at
Arrington Vineyards? A deep dive into history at
Carnton? Or a shopping and food day in
Downtown Franklin?
I’d love to hear how you’d spend your time in this charming Tennessee town.
- Drop a comment and share your favorite things to do in Franklin, TN—or what you’re most excited to try.
- If you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend who’s planning a trip to Tennessee.
Franklin may be just a short drive from Nashville, but it has a soul and story all its own. It’s the kind of place that makes you think, “Yeah…I could come back here again.”
Comments
Post a Comment