Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems to Explore

This summer, explore every community in Williamson County and experience some of the lesser-known spots on your adventures! Use our round-up as a starting point to plan your trip, and know that there are many more local gems waiting for you to discover this list is just the beginning!

Franklin

Amendment XVIII Cocktail Club is a mixologist’s dream, serving craft cocktails that arguably rival the scene in many larger cities in a swanky setting. Beat the heat with a game of axe throwing at Sticks & Stones Axe Co. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned pro, their friendly staff will help you hit the bullseye. With Sweethaven’s two locations in Franklin, the sprinkle-topped, soft serve treats are a summer must-try!

Spring Hill

Nelly’s Italian Café is a can’t-miss spot in Spring Hill. Neighbors love this eatery, so prepare for a short but worthwhile wait to enjoy authentic New York-style pizza and Italian staples like calzones, cannolis, and more. Visit nearby Hidden Seed Plant Shop for a dream plant selection and its sister business Beach Co. Chill for Hawaiian-style shave ice that will cool you down in no time.

Brentwood

Surprising and stunning nature escapes can be found in bustling Brentwood. Visit Owl’s Nature Sanctuary and Deerwood Arboretum & Nature Center for outdoor adventures, including guided hikes and educational opportunities. Just up the road is Dyer Observatory, Vanderbilt University’s astronomical observatory that’s open to the public for special events. When you’re hungry, be sure to visit Puffy Muffin, a beloved local institution, for a specialty pastry, scratch-made dessert, or grab-and-go boxed lunch.

Thompson’s Station

Gather around to sample award-winning whiskey and gin and play a round of cornhole at Company Distilling, tucked along the train track that runs through the town. Then pop over next door to local favorite Circa Grill for Southern-American fare (and brunch if you’re lucky enough to be visiting on a weekend!). Enjoy beautiful 360-degree, hilltop views at neighboring Preservation Park and learn about the Civil War history that unfolded there.

Arrington

Hatcher Family Dairy is one of Tennessee’s most famous farms (they were recently featured in a Discovery+ series!); a scenic drive out to Arrington to see the property and pick up some chocolate milk at the farm stand is well worth it. Stop by Mercantile 1858’s original outpost to shop vintage, new, and handmade home decor and gifts, and grab a snack at Sip-n-Scoop, a charming country grocery store.

Fairview

Just west of Franklin lies Fairview, home to the 700-acre Bowie Nature Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with hiking, biking, fishing, horseback riding, and more. While you’re in this neck of the woods, snap a photo at the Fairview mural, one of the stops on the free Murals of Williamson County digital passport (check in at five or more locations for a prize!). Shop curated home goods, furniture, and gift items at Farm Fresh Vintage Finds and even grab some ice cream there!

Nolensville

Oh My Chives is a surprising strip mall find along the historic 31A Trail in Nolensville. The natural market with locally sourced farm goods also offers incredible homemade sandwiches and other healthy fare, plus counters featuring Cornell Brothers Coffee and Lokales Juice if you’re looking for a refresher! Just up the road, browse Nolensville Book Nook for a curated selection of children’s books, and satisfy your sweet tooth with Itty Bitty Donuts & Specialty Coffee.

Leiper’s Fork

Quite literally off the beaten path on a gravel road, family-owned Noble Springs Dairy offers weekend farm tours and baby goat cuddling, as well as a delicious array of goat cheeses. Mosey down the road to sift through treasures at the charming Props Antiques, then grab a pick-me-up at The RedByrd Coffee Shop, a tiny home-turned-coffee stand with outdoor seating.

Discover All Of Williamson County

From hidden gems to well-known local favorites, each of Williamson County’s unique communities is home to shops, eats, scenic getaways, and much more. Click here to learn more about each community!