FamilyFriendly in Franklin

Franklin is known for being a family-friendly town full of unique 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!

Outdoor Adventures

Spring in Tennessee is the perfect time to venture out to Mistletoe Farm to meet the friendly alpacas or to Noble Springs Dairy to cuddle with baby goats! For more immersive outdoor learning, Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary offers various classes and guided hikes for burgeoning nature enthusiasts and families.

Check out Franklin Fly Fishing Co. excursions along the Harpeth River and Paddle Dog on Westhaven Lake for fun on the water. Rent from Pedego Electric Bikes and take a ride through Williamson County on your own or on a guided tour. Pedego has kid-sized bikes as well as child seats available for the little ones.

Engaging History Experiences

Learn more about Franklin while exploring local landmarks on the Midnight Sun Scavenger Hunt! Solve clues to find 10 statues modeled after Franklin’s famous Tennessee Walking Horse, Midnight Sun hidden around town, then stop by the Visitor Center to collect your prize. Click HERE to get started.

Carnton, Carter House, Rippa Villa, and Lotz House are great places to learn about the Battles of Franklin and Spring Hill and what life was like before, during, and after the Civil War. Take guided tours of the homes, then roam the beautiful historic garden and grounds around Carnton that include enslaved quarters, a cemetery, and Eastern Flank Battlefield Park

WILLIAMSON COUNTY ARCHIVES & MUSEUM

Williamson County Archives & Museum contains exciting visual displays and hundreds of years’ worth of artifacts from the area. Admission to this family-friendly museum is free with convenient on-site parking in downtown Franklin. Bring the whole family to explore the events, people, and communities that shaped the history and development of the county.

Fun Shops & Eats

Check out Nolensville Toy Shop for classic and specialty toys, puzzles, stuffed animals, games, and more. Then head to nearby Nolensville Book Nook to browse a curated assortment of the best children’s books. Just up the road, Outlanders Southern Chicken and Pork Belly Farmhouse offer kid-friendly menu options and inviting dining atmospheres.

Third Coast Clay at The Factory at Franklin is the perfect spot to spend the afternoon painting pottery! Choose from hundreds of pieces to paint, then pick up your masterpiece in a week (or have it shipped) once it’s been fired. While you’re at The Factory, head over to Mojo’s Tacos for a “Tenn-Mex”-inspired meal or Five Daughters Bakery for their famous 100-layer doughnuts. Shop Fork of the South General Store for toys, games, and more that kids will love—plus an ice cream and hot dog bar inside!

Sweethaven is another great kid-friendly spot for a sprinkle-topped sweet treat, with locations in downtown Franklin and the Westhaven neighborhood. While you’re on Main Street, browse local boutiques like White’s Mercantile, Tin Cottage, and The Purple Butterfly for children’s apparel, toys, gifts, and more.

FRESHLY-PICKED SPRING EVENTS

NOLENSVILLE BUTTERCUP FESTIVAL | April 16

MAIN STREET FESTIVAL* | April 22-23

FRANKLIN RODEO | May 18-20

TN RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL | Weekends in May