2022 Spring Guide by visitfranklintn

Recharge in Franklin

VISIT FRANKLIN | SPRING 2022

Get Outdoors

Spring is a great time to relax and recharge in Franklin. From amazing food and curated boutiques to historic sites and great hiking trails, there’s something for everyone. Browse our Spring 2022 Guide to find inspiration, trip ideas, fun activities, and more to make your visit special.

Natchez Trace Parkway

Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary

This historic 444-mile parkway run by the National Park

A hidden gem located near Brentwood, Owl’s Hill Nature

Service closely follows the original course of the ancient

Sanctuary is a peaceful spot to explore the great

trace traveled for centuries by tradesmen and Native

outdoors, learn about native Tennessee wildlife, or take

Americans. Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge, located at

a hike with a variety of trails for every skill level ($5 per

milepost 438 near Franklin, is a favorite of locals and

hiker). Sign up for one of their monthly programs for

visitors alike. This impressive double-arch bridge rises

nature lovers of all ages, including how to inoculate

155 feet above the valley below and boasts scenic views.

your own mushroom log, guided seasonal hikes, and

If you have time, follow the Natchez Trace Parkway to

much more. Be sure to ask about their owl program and

Leiper’s Fork, a charming village just outside Franklin.

conservation efforts!

Carnton

SOAR Adventure Tower

In addition to the fantastic guided house tour, there

Looking for a unique, fun way to get the family outdoors?

are many wonderful outdoor spots to explore on the

Check out SOAR Adventure Tower, an interactive

Carnton property during your visit. Located beside the

climbing structure that features four levels and over

house, you’ll find the beautifully restored garden and

110 climbing elements that will challenge adults and

the Witness Tree, a giant Osage tree that was standing

kids alike! Choose your course to safely climb your way

during the Battle of Franklin. Other points of interest

across balancing bridges and up the structure. Those

include the enslaved quarters and cemetery, both a

who prefer to stay on the ground can play a game of

short walk from the main house. Want to explore more?

mini-golf on SOAR’s 18-hole course, or bring your own

Walk the Eastern Flank Battlefield trail across from the

picnic to enjoy as you cheer on climbers from the

Carnton parking lot.

observation deck!

Harpeth River Ready to hit the water? Spring is a great time to take

TOP 5 HIKES

advantage of the beautiful Harpeth River that winds

NATCHEZ TRACE PKWY | Garrison Creek Loop Trail | 1.3 mi

through Franklin. There are multiple river access points throughout the city, including Pinkerton Park and The Park at Harlinsdale Farm. Rent a kayak from Paddle Dog Adventures, sign up for fly fishing excursions with Franklin Fly Fishing Co., or grab a hammock to set up along the river for a relaxing afternoon.

Spring Weeke Need a weekend getaway? We’ve rounded up some of our favorite spots around town to create the perfect spring itinerary. Make your weekend special with a trip to Franklin!

Friday Friday evening in Franklin is the perfect time to unwind and enjoy a slower pace. Head to 55 South or Frothy Monkey for a relaxed dining option. Looking for an upscale dining experience? Try Cork & Cow, Gray’s on Main, or 1799 Kitchen & Cocktails. Afterwards, browse historic Main Street, pick up dessert at Merridee’s Breadbasket, or stop in at O’ Be Joyful for a nightcap.

Gray’s on Main

*Denotes Heritage Foundation of Williamson County event

end in Franklin Arrington Vineyards

Saturday

Sunday

Start your Saturday off right with breakfast from vendors

Enjoy a Southern-style brunch in downtown Franklin

and food trucks at the Franklin Farmers Market! Try the

at Biscuit Love, a classic Southern option, or Ruby

blackened chicken biscuit at Califarmia or a variety of

Sunshine, inspired by the cuisine of New Orleans.

fantastic breakfast options from Lucy’s Kitchen.

Walk off your hearty breakfast at nearby Pinkerton

While you’re at the Franklin Farmers Market, head inside

Park, located along the beautiful Harpeth River. The

The Factory. This retired stove factory is one of the most

flat walking path is perfect for a relaxing stroll. If you’re

popular spots in town for great food and shopping. Stop

feeling adventurous, walk up to Fort Granger to see the

by Honest Coffee Roasters to pick up an iced Cuban

remains of this Civil War fort.

before you head out.

Spend the afternoon finding amazing local murals

Spend the afternoon at Arrington Vineyards, where acres

around Franklin and beyond! Access our Murals of

of trellised grapevines are the backdrop for an incredible

Williamson County digital passport to discover the

picnic experience. You can purchase snacks and sample

artsy side of Franklin. Plus, checkin virtually at each

18 award-winning blends from the winery before grabbing

stop to earn a prize. Be sure to tag @visitfranklintn on

a table, a fire pit, or the perfect spot to lay out a blanket

Instagram to share your photos with us!

on the hillside. You can even pre-order a gourmet basket, or bring your own food and drink to enjoy. Leiper’s Fork is a quaint village just outside of Franklin that is worth the 15-minute drive! Enjoy fantastic art galleries, antique shopping, and more in this wonderfully eclectic village. Take a tour of Leiper’s Fork Distillery and make dinner plans for 1892, a world-class farm-totable restaurant in the heart of Leiper’s Fork. If you have time, stop by the Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge for a breathtaking view of the rolling Tennessee hills! Ruby Sunshine

Discover 31A Highway 31A has everything you need for the perfect day trip: a scenic drive, unique

boutiques, local distilleries, and great food. This stretch of highway leads you through two distinct small towns, Nolensville and College Grove, each with charm of its own!

Nolensville It’s not a trip to Nolensville without stopping by the Amish Feed Mill! Pick up homemade bread, pies, and other staples to enjoy at this local institution. Ready to shop? Nolensville has a fantastic variety of shops, boutiques, and antique shops to explore. The Painted Dragonfly, Nellamoon, Nolensville Toy Shop, and Three French Hens are just a few local favorites! Nellamoon

Stop for lunch or dinner at Pork Belly Farmhouse or the world-famous Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint, which got its start in Nolensville. Take a tour of Mill Creek Brewing Co. or Wheeler’s Raid Distillery for a taste of Nolensville spirits! If you’re in the mood for a night out, Happenchance Social is a great place for a nightcap.

College Grove Mill Creek Brewing Co.

Browse antiques, home decor, and more at Vintage South and Joy in the Morning. Stop in at Sip-N-Scoop for ice cream, coffee, and snacks for the road!

PICK-ME-UPS ALONG 31A MAMA’S JAVA | Over 40 different air-roasted coffees ITTY BITTY DONUTS | Tiny donuts & specialty coffee SIP-N-SCOOP | Coffee, breakfast, lunch & snacks Sip-N-Scoop

Hotels & Lodging After a day of fun in Franklin, find a place that feels like home to put your feet up and relax! From brandnew hotels and luxury stays to quaint cottages and beautiful rental homes, you can choose the perfect stay experience that fits your mood. Here’s a short curated list of recommendations below. Go to visitfranklin.com/stay to check out a complete list of accommodations and book your stay!

Featured Hotels

The Harpeth Hotel

The Harpeth Hotel - Hilton Curio Collection Marriott Franklin/Cool Springs Hilton Franklin/Cool Springs Aloft Nashville/Franklin Drury Plaza Hotel Franklin Hilton Suites Brentwood/Nashville Embassy Suites by Hilton Nashville/Franklin/Cool Springs Hampton Inn & Suites Franklin/Cool Springs

Pot N’ Kettle Cottages

AC Hotel by Marriott Nashville/Brentwood Residence Inn by Marriott Franklin/Berry Farms

Featured Rentals Pot N’ Kettle Cottages Dogwood Cottage The Cottage at Dark Horse Estate

COMING SUMMER 2022 SOUTHALL FARMS | A luxury farm retreat

Family-Friend Franklin is known for being a family-friendly town full of fun activities, great places to eat, and more. From amazing local farms to interactive play experiences, you’ll find something truly memorable for all ages to enjoy during your stay in Williamson County!

Memorable Adventures Explore Franklin while you learn about its famous Tennessee Walking Horse on the Midnight Sun Scavenger Hunt! Find hidden statues all around Franklin by solving

and enjoy a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience. The historic building first opened its doors in 1937 and has since been restored. Today, visitors can enjoy concerts, films, live performances, and more.

clues, then pick up your prize at the Visitor Center. Rent bikes from Pedego Electric Bikes Franklin and take

Fun Shops & Eats

a ride through Williamson County! Pedego has kid-sized

Nolensville Toy Shop is a fun stop for classic and

bikes as well as child seats available for the little ones.

specialty toys, puzzles, stuffed animals, games, and

Go pedaling on your own, or take a guided bike tour.

more! Also in the charming town of Nolensville is the

Up for more outdoor adventures? Click here to access

original Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint, a local favorite

the digital Williamson County Outdoor Guide!

restaurant with an impressive menu of Southern classics including kid-friendly eats!

Exciting Experiences Learn more about Franklin with a 90-minute guided children’s tour by Franklin on Foot. Their children’s tours were created in collaboration with The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County to be engaging and educational! Carnton, Carter House, Rippavilla, and Lotz House are great places to learn about the Battle of Franklin and what life was like before, during, and after the Civil War. Take guided tours throughout the homes, then roam the beautiful historic garden and grounds around Carnton that include enslaved quarters, a cemetery, and the Eastern Flank Battlefield Park.

Back in Franklin, browse the amazing kids section at Landmark Booksellers to find classic and new books for any age! Shop vintage-inspired toys, children’s clothing, and unique gifts at White’s Mercantile. A few blocks away from Main Street, you’ll find The Coffee House at Second & Bridge, a great spot for breakfast, sandwiches, and coffee. Here you’ll find a variety of kid-friendly choices, from pancakes to grilled cheese sandwiches. Third Coast Clay at The Factory at Franklin is the perfect spot to spend the afternoon painting pottery! Choose from hundreds of fun pottery pieces to paint, then pick up your masterpiece (or have it shipped) to take home in a week. While you’re at The Factory at Franklin, head over to Mojo’s Tacos for a “Tenn-Mex”

For exciting live shows and classic movies, take the

inspired meal. Then, head over to Five Daughters Bakery

whole family to The Franklin Theatre on Main Street

or Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams for a sweet treat!

dly in Franklin

Mojo’s Tacos | The Factory at Franklin