Franklin, Tennessee, a city full of history, shops, restaurants, entertainment, and Southern hospitality. There are tons of things to do in Franklin, TN. This adorable town just south of Nashville is full of character and has many attractions that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you are just driving through, planning a weekend getaway, or making it a full-time stay, this travel guide is full of fun things to do in Franklin for the whole family.
Find out all about the locals’ favorites as well as the top attractions in Franklin to help you start planning your visit (or move!). Read on to discover why buyers are making Franklin, TN their forever home!
Places to Eat in Franklin, TN
This small town packs a major punch in the eating department. Franklin is home to some of Nashville’s best restaurants!
55 South is located in historic downtown Franklin. New Orleans and Mississippi Delta-style southern comfort food at your fingertips. Everything from po’boys and jambalaya to oysters and shrimp. Experience culinary excellence when you eat at 55 South!
Craving a delicious steak and some fine wine? Look no further than Cork & Cow! Exceptional cuts of steak and a wine selection of over 100 bottles. The menu consists of cocktails and seafood as well, so there is something for everyone.
Another wonderful dining option downtown Franklin is Gray’s on Main. Enjoy a real social experience when you dine at Gray’s on Main. Gray’s on Main offers shareable dishes and spirits for their guests to carry on their Southern tradition. Individual options are also available. Located in a stunning Victorian building that has become a Franklin landmark.
Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant
What started as a small-town grocery store in Leiper’s Fork in the 1950s, has grown to be one of Franklin’s most popular go-to spots! A welcoming atmosphere that exhibits Southern hospitality like no other. Doesn’t get better than the meat and three, slow-smoked BBQ, and some live music!
Looking for some fine dining? Visit the Red Pony for a “sophisticated southern” style dining experience. Enjoy Southern cuisine paired with a low-lit ambiance. Located in the McConnell House, a part of Franklin’s historic old jail downtown. The best food, service, and overall experience.
Other notable restaurants in Franklin, TN
JJ’s Wine Bar
Mafiaoza’s Pizza
The Honeysuckle
Five Daughter Donuts
Tupelo Honey Cafe
Triple Crown Bakery
Franklin Bakehouse
Coffee Shops and Breakfast in Franklin, TN
Coffee and Coconuts
Frothy Monkey
White Bison Coffee
Honest Coffee Roasters
Biscuit Love Franklin
Ruby Sunshine
Where to Play: Things to Do in Franklin, TN
Explore the largest selection of unique items in the area! An incredible selection from accessories and collectibles to home decor and home furniture. If you are visiting historic downtown Franklin, you must stop in and check this place out!
Jondie Clothing & Accessories Boutique
Needing to freshen up your wardrobe? Shop Jondie, A locally owned boutique downtown Franklin. You can find a large selection of high-quality clothing and accessories that are not only stylish but also affordable!
Mimi & Dottie Women’s Clothing Boutique
If you like Jondie you will LOVE Mimi & Dottie! Jondie’s owner opened Mimi & Dottie as her second boutique to showcase handmade jewelry designs as well as fashion-forward clothing and accessories with a fresh, chic style. Their collection is both fun and eclectic with each item expressing its own form of uniqueness.
You cannot go wrong shopping at PD’s! Find an endless supply of high-end discounted furniture. PD’s stays stocked with home furniture and decor that are up to date with today’s styles and trends. This is a local favorite!
Looking to furnish your new home in Franklin, TN? Stop by Onyx + Alabaster for incredible interior decor and design services. They also have a coffee and cocktail bar inside (pictured above).
White’s Mercantile General Store
“A general store for the modern tastemaker”, owned by Holly Williams, daughter of country star Hank Williams Jr., located conveniently downtown Franklin. Shopping at White’s Mercantile is an unforgettable experience. It has become a retail phenomenon with products ranging from Bloody Mary mixes to organic dog treats. You will definitely want to stop by this revived iconic old gas station and take a look around!
No better place to spend your Saturday morning or afternoon than the Franklin Farmers Market! You can find it all here… produce, fruit, dairy, baked goods, and meats. The local family farms supply the market with only the freshest goods! Whether you are shopping or just looking for a cool place to go on a morning stroll, the Franklin Famers Market is the place to be!
A Franklin gem and do-not-miss spot that is co-owned by Country Music artist Kix Brooks. A beautiful 95-acre property that includes 16 acres of vineyards, five tasting rooms, gorgeous views, shaded picnic areas, live music on weekends (April to November).
EXPLORE FRANKLIN
Take a trip downtown Franklin and visit the beautiful Historic District. Franklin on Foot offers downtown walking tours while teaching Franklin’s rich history all around the city. You can even do a ghost tour!
Leiper’s Fork is a charming village with so many fun and neat places to visit. Here you can stay at the Pot n’ Kettle Cottages and visit all of the village’s restaurants, shops, galleries and take a trip to the Leiper’s Fork Distillery.
The Factory at Franklin is a unique historic venue home to many amazing restaurants and shops. These factory buildings were built in 1929 and now consist of restaurants, retail stores, antique shops, art galleries, a theater, and more. The Factory is also home to the Franklin Farmers Market.
Fall in love with the timeless atmosphere of The Franklin Theater located in the heart of historic downtown Franklin. A restored 1937 art deco theater hosting live music and drama acts. Enjoy a full bar, concessions, and entertainment right on Main Street.
Where to Stay: Best Places to Live in Franklin, TN
There are so many incredible places to visit, eat or shop while you are in Franklin. The possibilities are endless! You really have everything you could want or need just around the corner. Whether you are just popping in or becoming a new local and are looking to move to Franklin, Tennessee, this town has proven that it is the place to be considering all of the attractions and growth in this city.
New Homes for Sale in Franklin, TN
Speaking of growth… St. Marlo, a Signature Homes community, is coming soon to the area! Rural charm meets luxury living in this new home community. St. Marlo’s gorgeous streetscapes and front porch atmosphere capture the best of small-town living. Build your new home right here in Franklin and you’ll be just minutes from shopping, dining, and Williamson County’s top-rated schools. Located near established Signature Homes communities: Brenley Crossing, Enderly Point, and Ladd Park.
Learn more about building in St. Marlo at LiveStMarlo.com. Contact one of our new home specialists today!
Signature Homes is Nashville’s #1 New Community Builder. Our resort-style neighborhoods are one-of-a-kind with copious amounts of amenities and home features you’d normally only find in multi-million dollar homes. We provide our customers with a 5-star building team that includes a full-time designer to help guide you through building the home of your dreams. When searching for Nashville’s best builder, look no further. Read what our clients have to say here. We look forward to meeting you and hope that you’ll build your life with us in Franklin, TN!