Things to do & places to visit in Franklin, Tennessee, United States

Franklin, a vibrant suburb of Nashville, is a blend of modern and historic, with trendy places to shop and eat and attractions that tell the story of the Civil War Battle of Franklin. The historic downtown district is nationally recognized as a Great American Main Street. Franklin’s attractions include Carnton Plantation, Carter House and Lotz House. Arrington Vineyards, owned by music legend Kix Brooks, offers free wine tastings and live music. Franklin is located 20 miles south of Nashville.

Franklin city in Tennessee, United States. Timezone: America/Chicago, current date and time: Saturday, April 27, 2024, 14:02.

Top things to do (24)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Lotz House Museum (3.278 reviews)
- Very interesting piece of history.
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • History Museums

The compelling story of the times, the family, and the fine antiques of the Civil War era. The Lotz House, which has been on the National Historic Register since 1976, is located in the heart of downtown historic Franklin, Tennessee, at “the epicenter” of the Battle of Franklin, which was a pivotal battle of the Civil War on November 30, 1864. The House was the most heavily damaged structure on the Franklin battlefield. Walk in to witness the damage from the cannon balls that crash through the house and numerous bloodstains on all the floors. Plus on this tour, your will learn about the family, the Master Wood Worker who built the home by himself, how the family survived and how the bloody battle affected them for the balance of their lives! Reservation are not required for Guided tours of the historic home. In addition, walking battlefield tours and an archeological tours are also available, but please call for reservations. Please join us as we step back into Civil War history. See more..
5.0 Leiper's Fork Distillery (202 reviews)
- Tour & Tasting
Saturday: 10:30 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Distilleries

Leiper's Fork Distillery is a small batch whiskey distillery located in Williamson County, Tennessee. Since filling our first barrel in the Spring of 2016, our goal has been to resurrect the lost art of small batch whiskey production that was prevalent in the hills of Middle Tennessee from its earliest founding. Traditionally, Tennessee has been counted among the four main whiskey making regions of the world, along with Scotland, Ireland and Kentucky. We are proud of this heritage and aim to carry on this tradition in the fine whiskeys we produce. We offer tours & tastings Tuesday through Sunday with hours from 10:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. See more..
5.0 Gallery 202 (87 reviews)
- Very welcoming gallery.
Art Galleries

What a beautiful gallery. Always a great variety of artwork to enjoy. Owner/artist Kelly Harwood and Jim are always so welcoming. We’ve been impressed with the variety of offerings and price points. We most recently commissioned Kelly to paint a special piece for my wife’s big birthday. She was so happy, surprised and overwhelmed with how beautiful the work was. These guys will hold your hand and help you find the art work that is just right for you and your home. We highly recommend them. See more..
5.0 The Copper Fox Gallery (26 reviews)
- Unique one of a kind decor!
Saturday: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Art Galleries

The Copper Fox gallery represents over 90 fine craft artisans from 12 states, predominantly TN. Slow down, look around and discover a remarkable collection of handmade art. Whether you’re an art collector, a connoisseur or an enthusiast, you’ll leave feeling lighter and brighter, inspired by what we have in store! See more..
5.0 St. Paul's Episcopal Church (25 reviews)
- Step back into time
Churches & Cathedrals

Whether you attend a service here or merely visit the historic site, St Paul's is not to be missed. The ambience and beauty of this old church, complete with the railing from the balcony where slaves were permitted to sit, allows one to step back into time and the history of the South. The stained glass windows are absolutely beautiful, and the services on Sunday are warm and welcoming. There's a modern hall behind the church for classes and social gatherings. It's located in downtown Franklin, steps from restaurants, coffee shops, and shopping. A definite must see! See more..
5.0 McLemore House (14 reviews)
- Vital Historic Gem of Franklin
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Spent < 1 hour History Museums

I’ve been to most historic tours in Franklin. This was hands down the most moving and fascinating tour. It’s not just about the house, but extends to the surrounding community and generational history in that community (which is tied to our larger USA history) up until today. Christy was our tour guide and she was a walking encyclopedia of Franklin history, she was super passionate and asked questions in the tour guide that allowed you to think through the history. I’m a total fan of hers now. If you go to Carter house and Carton, definitely add on this tour to get the full colorful history of Franklin. See more..
5.0 Pinkerton Park (12 reviews)
- Great park!
Spent 1-2 hours Parks • Playgrounds

Nice walking trail, great play area for kids, good for picnics, plenty of wide open space in an otherwise busy area. Even has rest rooms! See more..
5.0 Studio Tenn (10 reviews)
- The best of local theatre
Saturday: 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Theaters

Studio Tenn is a professional regional theatre company and a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that exists to captivate and inspire with Broadway-quality musicals, plays, and concerts while educating the next generation to create and delight in the experience of live theatre. Its programming centers around innovative, custom-designed presentations of classic plays and musicals as well as an original “Legacy” series of theatrical concerts celebrating the work of time-honored musicians. See more..
4.5 Carnton (1.719 reviews)
- Best tour
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites • Battlefields

Carnton was built around 1826 by Randal McGavock, an early settler in Middle Tennessee. By the time of the Civil War, Carnton was home to John and Carrie McGavock and it was a large working farm. Over forty enslaved people lived and worked at Carnton in the years leading up to the Civil War. On November 30, 1864, the site was witness to the Battle of Franklin. Carnton became the largest field hospital in the area following the terrible battle, and in 1866 the McGavock Confederate Cemetery was established nearby. Today the cemetery holds the remains of nearly 1,500 Southern soldiers. The family and enslaved cemeteries are also on site. Sixty minutes Classic house tours are offered as well as Extended, Slavery, Battlefield, and Behind the Scenes tours. See more..
4.5 Downtown Franklin (1.456 reviews)
- Be sure to get out of Nashville for a day and checkout Franklin!
Spent 2-3 hours Neighborhoods • Historic Walking Areas

Located just a straight shot south from downtown Nashville, quaint downtown Franklin is the perfect sleepy Southern town. Visitors can easily spend a day browsing antique shops and boutiques and dining at one of its many ecelctic restaurants. Downtown Franklin offers an eclectic mix of antique shops, gift and book stores, art galleries and clothing boutiques. Franklin hosts several festivals each year. See more..
4.5 Carter House (1.355 reviews)
- Story telling made the tour
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites • Battlefields

The Carter House was built around 1830 by Fountain Branch Carter. By the time of the Civil War it was a large agricultural operation. In the years leading up to the Civil War nearly thirty enslaved people lived and worked on the farm. The Carter home and property was consumed by the Battle of Franklin on November 30, 1864. The house served as headquarters for the United States Army during the battle. One of the Carter sons was mortally wounded during the terrible fighting and died in the house two days later. Sixty minute Classic house tours are offered as well as Battlefield, Slavery, and Extended tours. See more..
4.5 McGavock Confederate Cemetery (393 reviews)
- Largest private Confederate cemetery in America.
Cemeteries

The fact that over 900 names of the dead were actually found out of the over 1,400 fatalities is amazing. This is a well preserved cemetery on the Carnton Plantation grounds and a testament to the horrors of war. If I am correct this is the largest private Confederate cemetery in the country. There is a cost to visit the mansion but the cemetery ground are free to visit for all. That being said do visit the mansion if time allows. See more..
4.5 Leiper's Fork (306 reviews)
- Stroll down and explore
Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

There is no complete road trip without Leiper’s Fork! Weather in search of a unique gift, art piece or to grab a bite, this peaceful village is a beautiful place to just hangout. Explore, relax and indulge in some... whiskey at the local distillery! See more..
4.5 Winstead Hill Park (96 reviews)
- History & Hiking
Historic Sites • Parks

This modestly sized city park in Franklin just off US 31 is an appropriate blend of history lessons coupled with maintained tracks or trails for walking or jogging. At the main entrance to the park you’ll note the monuments and large visual displays retelling the story of Civil War battles that took place on these very grounds. You’ll also quickly see another set of maps and descriptions of the land where the scenic trail winds through the park. Rest Room facilities are available. Limited picnic area. There are a few benches spaced out along the pathway for resting and reflection. There is no entrance fee at this park. See more..
4.5 Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge (93 reviews)
- Beautiful bridge
Spent More than 3 hours Bridges • Scenic Drives

Really perfect place to take sunrise photos. There are plenty of places to park your car at the entrance of the bridge. See more..
4.5 Gentry's Farm (64 reviews)
- Great family fun. My kids are adults and they enjoyed the hay ride, corn maze and picking pumpkins. Great day .
Farms

The entire experience was fantastic. We enjoyed the hayride thru the fields looking at the cows and older buildings. The corn maze and the mini golf was unexpected and very fun. The animals was another fun time seeing all the different types from goats and chickens to even the turkeys. The pumpkin patch was great priced and a good selection. The also offer military discounts See more..
4.5 David Arms (52 reviews)
- Can't believe anyone can actually be this talented
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Art Galleries

Thoughtful Living. Hope Inspired. Come visit the retail location for Nashville-based artist, David Arms, where he sells original works, various items produced from his work, and a curated collection of things he loves that creates a unique experience for all who enter this beautiful space in Leiper's Fork. See more..
4.5 Confederate Memorial Park at Winstead Hill (45 reviews)
- a sobering reminder
Parks

The memorial plaques at this staging ground for the Battle of Franklin are a grim reminder of what this battle cost the Confederates. Combined with the Lotz & Carter House Tours it brings the full scene 'to life'. See more..
4.5 The Park at Harlinsdale Farm (42 reviews)
- Awesome Multipurpose Park
Parks

This place means so many things to so many different groups & individuals — locals and tourists alike. From major concert festivals, to horse shows, dog parks, walking trails and even a catch and release fishing pond. Historic farm structures make up the centerpiece of the massive property. Two different entrances are available both off of highway 31 / Franklin Road just across the road from the Factory at Franklin entertainment and shopping complex. Great venue for photo ops. See more..
4.5 Franklin Farmers Market (40 reviews)
- A beautiful April morning to learn about Franklin and the local people
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Farmers Markets

We had just arrived from Minnesota the previous night and needed a break from the driving and a taste of not-fast-food. Our dog was in hand, which we think was not technically allowed, but there were a few of them and nobody seemed to mind. At 9:30 a.m. on a Saturday, some of the food trucks outside had long lines, but we managed a couple bags of donuts from Ellie’s Donuts food truck. There was a singer playing on the patio which was a little short of seating. There are various different vendors of food, plants, vegetables and hard goods set up outside. Inside the historic Franklin Factory next door are more shops and protection from any inclimate weather. Many children and families were outside and parking was adequate. We loved it and would return. See more..
4.5 Williamson County Visitor Center (28 reviews)
- Excellent information
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Visitor Centers

Taking a trip is more than just getting away from the daily routine. It’s about creating lasting memories with the ones you love most. Here in Franklin, we are committed helping you create your own unique, lasting memories that are revisited long after you’ve left our charming town. If you’re looking to slow down, remove yourself from the hustle and bustle, and experience southern sophistication, Franklin is just the place for you. From our nationally-recognized historic Main Street to our local distilleries and Civil War history, you will find yourself getting lost in a new adventure among a picturesque setting. We can't wait to welcome you! See more..
4.5 Timberland Park (27 reviews)
- Great Nature Trail Hiking
Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails

This Williamson County Park with multiple loop trails of various lengths is accessed via the Natchez Trace Parkway near the iconic Trace Bridge that spans TN 96 West — is a great place to enjoy nature and get a little education on tree’s names while you’re at it. Not much of the property is flat or level — the trails run along the tops of hillsides and ridges as well as crisscrossing the steep ravines. Trail markers are very visible — four different color blaze markers — sometimes overlapping. Benches for resting are placed throughout the park to help you catch your breath or just enjoy the sights. A Trail Office is staffed with helpful guides and maps as well as public restrooms. Park closes at 4pm during the winter months. See more..
4.5 Aspen Grove Park (21 reviews)
- Excellent spot for a quick walk
Parks • Playgrounds

Our family enjoyed a quick (.7 mile) walk here before dinner at P. F. Chang (you can access the walking paths from a spot just next to P.F. Chang's parking). This is a small park with a couple of short, paved walking trails. The soundscape - multiple bird species and a creek- is fabulous. There is a small playground that appears well maintained. See more..
4.5 Boiler Room Theatre (21 reviews)
- Stunningly good, especially for the space
Saturday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Theaters

Located in the heart of Franklin, we are located within the bustling community of The Factory at Franklin. The heart of a the old bustling manufacturing company that is Boiler Room Theatre provides an intimate theater spaces. With inherent charm, natural acoustics, exposed brick and beams, and nearly 40-foot ceilings. We have 120 comfy, movie-theater style seats you'll be close enough to see every nuance of the performance, but not so close you feel you're in the show.Our live theater is close to great restaurants and shopping along with plenty of free, well-lit parking.The Boiler Room Theatre is currently in it's twelfth season--greatly due to strong support from our community See more..
4.5 Mantra Artisan Ales (19 reviews)
- Nice experience
Spent 1-2 hours Breweries

My hubby and I found this on a certain group discount site. We had an excellent experience from another such experience and wanted to try more local brews. Quite the variety of flavors and even alcohol content. We both found flavors we liked and enjoyed taking home a growler and 4 pack of our top picks. See more..
4.5 Noble Springs Dairy (9 reviews)
- Great family activity
Farms

We took our kids for one of the tours on Saturday and it was an amazing experience! They got to learn about animals and farming, all in a fun environment while playing with goats. The owners were extremely friendly and amazing hosts. Highly recommend and don't forget to get some of the goat cheese! See more..
4.5 Scarlett Scales Antiques (9 reviews)
- Lovely stores and lovely owner
Spent < 1 hour Antique Shops

I have lived in this county for 28 years and this is my first choice antique shop. Scarlett's father was in the antique business and she has integrity. She has a wonderful variety of items, Her shop on West Main is my favorite. She has 2 locations. Lovely experience for anyone. See more..
4.0 The Factory at Franklin (288 reviews)
- Unique Venue for seminar
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Shopping Malls

Built in 1929, The Factory occupies the buildings that once served as the Dortch Stove Works, Magic Chef and later the Jamison Bedding Company. A member of the National Register of Historic Places, The Factory is rich with history and a very careful renovation has preserved many of The Factory's original features and architectural details. Calvin bought the sprawling complex seven years ago and, after an environmental clean-up, began opening the facility in sections. Today, The Factory at Franklin has 83 tenants. Imagine that factory coming alive with concerts, dining, shopping, meetings, live theatre, art galleries, decorators' showcases, antiques and offices. Our unique facility can serve all this and more. Take a look at The Factory in its days as a bustling, working factory, then embark on a photographic tour of its renovation and transformation to the diverse and vibrant shopping and entertainment complex it is today. See more..
4.0 Fort Granger Park (68 reviews)
- GREAT-BUT....
Parks

make no mistake, this is a GREAT Civil War site! Preserved Union fort on the north end of Franklin-so much is still there to see! Great to step back in time. There is a wonderful walk across the river to get to the park-but-it is pretty steep and fairly demanding. There IS a parking lot just behind the actual fort-USE THIS ENTRANCE-unless, of course, you want a really good workout climbing the rocks and roots to get to the fort. This is a must see-BUT-use the upper parking lot! See more..
4.0 Carter Gin Assault Site Park (32 reviews)
- Free driving history tour
Historic Sites • Battlefields

Visitor center had a self driving tour of historic Franklin. Free and great. On cell phone and drive around. The flowers and trees are beautiful. Great architecture. Very friendly people. See more..