What's Your Perfect Franklin Getaway?
Planning a trip to Franklin? The real question is, which local spots should you add to your list? From picturesque countryside to iconic Main Street, find your perfect itinerary in Franklin.
Which of these do you think is essential for a great vacation?
Exploring historic homes with an incredible past
A laid-back afternoon of browsing art galleries and antique shops
Going on a new adventure and making memories
Tasting amazing Southern cuisine and touring distilleries
What travel souvenir are you most likely to pick up?
A bottle of hot chicken spice to take home
A handmade piece of art by a local artist
A photography book with beautiful local shots
A t-shirt to remember my Franklin vacation
When it comes to an outdoor adventure, I’d choose….
To enjoy it from a porch swing with a glass of sweet tea
A 3-mile hike along the beautiful Natchez Trace
A breezy electric bike ride in the Tennessee countryside
An equestrian-inspired art scavenger hunt
What’s your ideal lodging?
A historic antebellum home with a past
An eclectic B&B within walking distance to historic Main Street
A luxury hotel in downtown Franklin
A quiet farmhouse with amenities near town
What is one thing you always bring on vacation?
My camera (or iPhone) for taking photos
Extra room in my travel bag for souvenirs
A good book to relax with
A new outfit
History Buff
You are a student of history with an appreciation of all things Southern. We recommend:
- Visit Carnton, Carter House and Lotz House to immerse yourself in Civil War history. Tour these beautiful homes that were center stage in the pivotal Battle of Franklin.
- Gray's on Main for an upscale Southern dining experience in a former pharmacy.
- Explore The Factory at Franklin, a former stove factory turned multi-use facility featuring casual dining, coffee, and shopping. Be sure to get a donut from Five Daughters!
- For more history, visit the Historic Masonic Hall, browse at Landmark Books or take a Franklin on Foot Ghost Tour.
Arts & Culture Connoisseur
For you, exploring local art and culture is essential to a great vacation. Here's what we recommend:
- Explore the charming village of Leiper's Fork just outside of downtown Franklin. You'll love browsing Leiper's Creek Gallery, David Arms, and local shops that feature incredible artwork, jewelry, and more.
- For a truly memorable Southern dining experience, make reservations at 1892 to enjoy farm-fresh meals seasonally curated by chef Dylan Morrison.
- Tour Carton, Carter House, and Lotz House to see incredible craftsmanship and art. Each of these historic homes were involved in the Battle of Franklin, and feature fantastic hour-long tours.
- Want more places to explore? Add Gallery 202, a Studio Tenn performance, or pick up a first edition from Landmark Booksellers.
Experience Enthusiast
You're always ready for an adventure! Add these amazing experiences to your trip itinerary:
- First up, head to Franklin's iconic Main Street for a truly Southern experience. Browse the local shops, grab a latte, and walk by beautiful historic homes.
- Try Southern staples like hot chicken and classic sides from Bishop's Meat & 3 or smoked brisket from the world-famous Martin's BBQ.
- Drive just a few miles beyond Main Street to the Natchez Trace Parkway and check out the iconic Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge. If you're in the mood for a hike, try the Garrison Creek hike along the historic Natchez Trace Trail.
- Want more Franklin experiences? Book a haunted tour with Franklin on Foot, explore local distilleries on the Masters & Makers trail, or visit the alpacas at Mistletoe Farms!
Southern Foodie
Take an adventure, Southern-style! From hot chicken to chess pie, you'll love the amazing Southern chefs and restaurants that call Franklin home.
- There's nothing like the iconic Southern "meat & 3"! Locals love Bishop's, Puckett's, and Martin's BBQ, just to name a few. Want an upscale experience? Check out 1892 or Gray's on Main.
- If you have a sweet tooth, stop by Triple Crown Bakery, Merridee's or Five Daughters to sample everything from traditional Southern pies to 100 layer donuts. Pair with coffee from Honest Coffee or High Brow Coffee + Tea!
- Meet our incredible local farmers at the weekly Franklin Farmer's Market and pick up breakfast or lunch from a food truck.
- Still hungry? Try Biscuit Love, Mojo's Tacos, or The Grilled Cheeserie. Don't leave town before you pick up hot chicken spice from Savory Spice!