Top Attractions

There are so many things to do in Franklin and Williamson County that it’s a (fun) challenge to figure out where best to start. Add these top attractions to your “must-do” list to experience precisely what makes Franklin so unique!

MAIN STREET

Since 1799, Main Street has been the center of life in downtown Franklin. Anchored by the Public Square and surrounded by 16 blocks of historic homes and buildings, Main Street has been recognized worldwide for its diverse mix of architecture, historic landmarks, boutique shopping, curated art galleries, local restaurants, and more.

THE FACTORY AT FRANKLIN

Just past the Public Square and less than a mile down East Main Street is

the old Dortch Stove works building, built in 1929 to produce electric ovens, which became a part of mainstream American life. Rescued

from demolition and restored by a local visionary in 1996, The Factory at Franklin is a destination for

shopping, dining, art galleries, and more, as well as the incredible

Farmer’s Market each Saturday.

Don’t miss: Honest Coffee Roasters, Fork of the South, Made in TN, Five Daughters Bakery.

CARNTON

November 30, 1864, is a day that not only shaped Franklin’s future but that of our nation. The Battle of

Franklin and its 10,000 casualties helped end the Civil War, and the human stories of tragedy and triumph that happened right here in Franklin are powerful. Take the time to visit Carnton, which served as a field hospital for months after the battle. The carefully preserved home and gardens are a snapshot in time, but the bloodstains on the wood floors and the graveyard full of unknown soldiers tell a sobering story.

Don’t miss: Eastern Flank Battlefield

LEIPER’S FORK

If you’re looking for antiques and gifts, live music, a memorable meal, or just another inviting place to stretch your legs, this little hamlet known as Leiper’s Fork will not disappoint. Less than 10 miles from downtown Franklin, it’s a snapshot of rural Middle Tennessee and the

tiny villages that dot the landscape. The collection of shops, restaurants, galleries, and, well, people to be found here is so fun and unique that it has attracted world-class talent.

So don’t be surprised if you happen to see someone you know from stage or screen.

Don’t miss: Prop’s Antiques, live music at the original Puckett’s Grocery.

The Natchez Trace Parkway - considered by some to be the oldest highway in America - passes right through Williamson County and provides the ultimate scenic drive. The 444-mile parkway follows a pre-settlement path and critical trade route from Nashville to Natchez, Mississippi, and the Mississippi River. Head out Highway 96 West from downtown Franklin 10 miles and be

rewarded with a stunning view of Birdsong Hollow and its double-arch bridge. Then you’ll know you’ve arrived at the Natchez Trace.

Don’t miss: Timberland Park, view from the top of the Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge.

CARTER HOUSE

At the Carter House, you’ll get a real sense of the intensity of the Battle of Franklin as it waged all around the family that was hunkered down in their basement. Fountain

Branch Carter completed the home for his family in 1830, and 34 years later, his son Toderick would be mortally wounded during the Battle of Franklin, succumbing to his wounds inside his family home. Tour the museum, the house, and the bullet-riddled outbuildings, and you’ll understand the significance of what happened there over 150 years ago. Flip to page four for details on the Carter House, as well as more Battle of Franklin sites.

Don’t miss: the farm office, annual Battle of Franklin

Illumination in November.

ARRINGTON VINEYARDS

You might not consider Franklin to be wine country, but Arrington Vineyards may just change your mind. Acres of trellised grapevines are the backdrop for an incredible picnic experience, and you can purchase snacks and sample 18 award-winning blends from the winery before grabbing a table, a fire pit, or the perfect spot to lay out a blanket on the hillside. You can even preorder a gourmet basket or bring your own food and drink to enjoy.

Don’t miss: Music in the Vines (weekends from April-October).

Natchez Trace Parkway

Carter House