Landmark Booksellers
Family -Friendly Experiences
Take in the changing leaves and crisp fall weather in one of the coziest towns in the South! Come see why Franklin topped Travel + Leisure’s lists of “Best Places to See Fall Foliage in the United States” and “America’s Best Halloween Towns,” and read on for our top seasonal activities you can’t miss while you’re in town.
NEW!
PILGRIMAGE BLOCK PARTY
Kick off the Pilgrimage Festival weekend on Friday night! Don’t miss the inaugural downtown block party on Friday, September 27. Enjoy food, music, activities, and special offerings from 25 shops & restaurants from 6 - 9 p.m. Click HERE to learn more, and to grab our After Dark Guide and Festival Favorites Guide!
PUMPKINFEST
One of Franklin’s favorite annual festivals returns on Saturday, October 26! Hosted by the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County, this family-friendly fall festival stretches throughout Franklin’s historic district and features seasonal food and drink, children’s activities, live music, costume contests, craft vendors, and more.
LEIPER’S FORK
A favorite spot for locals and visitors alike, the quaint village of Leiper’s Fork is the ideal place to visit in the fall. Relax at the community fire pits dotted along the main thoroughfare, or sample locally-made whiskey at Leiper’s Fork Distillery.
FALL HIKING
Take in the beautiful Tennessee fall foliage with a hike! Williamson County offers many fantastic hiking trails made for enjoying the cool weather and changing leaves.
Some of our favorite hiking spots are Timberland Park, Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary, and Deerwood Arboretum & Nature Center. Check out our all-season Outdoor Guide for more details!
Featured
LANDMARK BOOKSELLERS
A visit to the storied Landmark building is a must during your visit to Main Street. Browse over 60,000 new, rare, and vintage books, plus the “Great Wall of Franklin” display. Presented in chronological order, these timeless volumes represent humanity’s most influential works and echo familiar themes you’ll encounter again and again.
FRANKLIN FARMERS MARKET
The Franklin Farmers Market provides an unmatched Saturday morning experience. Get breakfast from local food trucks, pick up seasonal produce, browse craft vendors, and more. When you’re finished, head inside the newly renovated Factory at Franklin for coffee and more amazing eats and shopping!
GENTRY’S FARM
A staple of all things fall in Franklin, this seventhgeneration farm welcomes visitors each year to “pick your own” pumpkin and enjoy the 4-acre cornfield maze, nature trail, farm games, and more. All ages will enjoy this family-friendly outing!
GUIDED GHOST TOURS
Franklin, the epicenter of a major Civil War battle, has urban legends and paranormal stories like any town with 200+ years of history. If ghost tours with a dose of local history are right up your alley, Franklin Walking Tours or Franklin on Foot will guide you through the historic district and give you the inside scoop on spooky stories, haunted homes, and more.
Weekend Itinerary
Fall is the perfect time to plan a trip to Franklin! While it’s hard to do everything in Franklin in just one weekend, this fun-fulled itinerary includes top spots and local favorites around town so you can enjoy every crisp and cozy fall moment this season.
FRIDAY P.M.
Check into your hotel and stroll down historic Main Street all decorated for fall, or take yourself on a self-guided walking tour with one of our free digital passes! Not to be missed are the “Fuller Story” downtown markers and March to Freedom statue detailing the significance of USCT troops during the Battle of Franklin.
Ready for dinner? Enjoy acclaimed Southern fare at Red Pony, 55 South, or Puckett’s in downtown Franklin.
Catch live music at Kimbro’s Pickin’ Parlor, or watch a movie or performance at The Franklin Theatre. Afterward, head to O’ Be Joyful for a craft cocktail nightcap!
March to Freedom Statue
SATURDAY A.M.
Scope out the Franklin Farmers Market at The Factory at Franklin, an old stove factory turned multiuse facility that offers many shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Get a 100-layer doughnut from Five Daughters Bakery and try a seasonal drink from Honest Coffee Roasters while you’re there!
Want to explore Franklin’s best sights? Gray Line Tennessee’s Franklin Hop Tour will take you on an entertaining 45-minute loop on a vintage trolley with expert guides pointing out over 50 local points of interest and sharing stories along the way. Or hop on the Leiper’s Fork shuttle and spend the day exploring the charming village.
Grab combo tickets to tour two of the Franklin Hop Tour stops at the Visitor Center in downtown Franklin! Carnton and Carter House stood at the epicenter of the Battle of Franklin and are must-sees for history buffs.
SATURDAY P.M.
Explore the Masters & Makers Trail with a drive out to Arrington Vineyards for a picture-perfect picnic experience paired with award-winning wines, or experience a tour and small-batch whiskey tasting at Company Distilling in Thompson’s Station.
Grab a coffee at 1819 at the historic Homestead Manor property, then check out Preservation Park for 360-degree views of the countryside. Head to Circa Grill or Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint for a bite before heading on to the next leg of your adventure.
Amble down the 31A Trail in Nolensville for unique shopping and dining spots along this bustling, historic corridor. Pick up seasonal produce and goods from Morning Glory Orchard and Nolensville Feed Mill, and sample craft beers while lounging on the patio at Mill Creek Brewing Co.
SUNDAY A.M.
Kick-start your morning with brunch at Frothy Monkey or Herban Market, two eateries with locally sourced menus. For New Orleans-inspired cuisine, try brunch classics and cocktails with a Big Easy twist at Ruby Sunshine. If flaky, freshly baked biscuits are speaking your language, you can’t go wrong with a dish from Biscuit Love! For something with a kick, try the “Princess”—a biscuit topped with hot chicken—or pick up an order of “bonuts”—a cross between a biscuit and a donut—if you’re craving something sweet.
In the mood to go pickin’? You’ll love Franklin’s antique district! Local favorites include Mercantile 1858, City Farmhouse, Franklin Antique Mall, Winchester Antiques, and Spring Hill Antique Mall. If boutique shopping is more your speed, browse White’s Mercantile, Tin Cottage, and many more shops dotting Main Street and beyond.
Learn hidden stories and historic facts during an immersive guided tour hosted by Franklin on Foot or Franklin Walking Tours. From history to ghosts to the local food scene, there’s a tour for everyone!
SUNDAY P.M.
For a truly unique fall experience you’ll never forget, visit a local farm! Pick a pumpkin and explore the corn maze at Gentry’s Farm, or cuddle baby goats and sample cheese at Noble Springs Dairy.
Take a joyride down the Natchez Trace Parkway to see fall foliage, historic sites, gorgeous overlooks, and the iconic double-arch bridge. For an unforgettable hike, turn off the Trace at Mile Marker 437.2 into Timberland Park, a wooded spot with over 3 miles of hiking trails.
Then, head just off the Natchez Trace to the idyllic village of Leiper’s Fork for shopping and art galleries. Grab a seasonal drink at the quaint RedByrd Coffee or Tennessee-grown wine at Wines in the Fork, then enjoy some Southern classics and live music at the iconic Fox & Locke. Don’t miss a visit to Leiper’s Fork Distillery for “grain-to-glass” whiskey, another stop on the Masters & Makers Trail.
White’s Mercantile @merliciousatl
Leiper’s Fork Distillery
1819 Coffee
Spots to Color Watch
BY ABBI WILT
When it comes to scenic views, Franklin takes home the gold. Its natural beauty is a big reason that visitors flock to the area in the fall; you won’t find vibrant foliage, lookouts where you can see for miles, a picture-perfect Main Street, and rolling Tennessee hills just anywhere. With deep hues of red, orange, and yellow falling on storied trees, you won’t want to miss these spectacular and unique views around town.
NATCHEZ TRACE PARKWAY BRIDGE
One of the most photographed spots in Middle Tennessee is the double-arched, 145-foot-high Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge. Located at milepost 438, the bridge runs across Highway 96 and Birdsong Hollow with a breathtaking view of the valley below. Park north of the bridge and walk down a paved path to get down to the Birdsong Hollow Overlook, where you’ll see the bridge peeking through colorful leaves. If you take the exit south of the bridge, you’ll find a parking area that lends a skyward view of the bridge.
You’ll also want to venture out onto the bridge itself to experience the stunning view! Look out onto a valley that doubles as an artist’s canvas, with a stretch of road running through red sugar maples and orange oaks. It’s an absolute must-see while in Franklin.
PULLTIGHT HILL
Tucked away in Bethesda around some backcountry roads, you’ll find the hidden gem of Pulltight Hill. When you need to take a two-lane driver, roll down the windows, and explore the beautiful Tennessee countryside with fields, farms, forests, and all the fresh fall air your heart can handle. Up Pulltight Hill Road, you’ll find a few spots to pull over—one paved, others on the shoulder—and observe the landscape that has inspired many a Tennessee ballad. It’s a peaceful, lowtraffic view away from city noise.
WINSTEAD HILL PARK
History lovers will appreciate the view from the top of Winstead Hill Park: It was General John Bell Hood’s command post as he observed his advancing troops in 1864. The view looks north down Columbia Pike towards Main Street. While this is a more developed view than some of the untouched beauty you’ll see at other overlooks, it is still stunning in autumn and provides a fascinating look into our past and the Battle of Franklin. Take a stroll down the park’s 3/4 mile walking path that winds through its 61 acres of historic land and see vibrant leaves above and below you.
At Winstead Hill Park, there are two entrances—one is closer to the overlook, and one leads towards the park’s walking path. Choose your own adventure! Please note that getting to the top of this lookout spot requires some stairs and a rocky path.
LYNNWOOD WAY LOOKOUT
A stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle, Lynnwood Way Lookout off of Franklin Road is a peaceful roadside park with a view that transforms into an impressionist painting of fall color. Take leisurely drive up to the lookout, and you’ll find plenty of room to park. The great thing about Lynnwood is that it’s a lesser-known lookout spot—meaning you can relax with few other visitors. Lynnwood is especially photogenic at sunset, where layers of dusky color fill the sky.
Birdsong Hollow
Winstead Hill Park
Top PlacesInsta-Worthy in Franklin
One of the best parts of a trip is taking photos to remember your adventure and share!
Franklin has no shortage of fantastic photo opportunities, from unbeatable scenic beauty to memorable experiences you’ll want to relive for years to come.
Add these spots to your Franklin itinerary, and be sure to tag @visitfranklintn on Instagram when you post your photos!
LOCAL FARMS
Williamson County is home to fabulous local farms! Cuddle baby goats and sample cheese at Noble Springs Dairy, meet the friendly alpacas at Mistletoe Farm, pick fall pumpkins at Gentry’s Farm or Lucky Ladd Farms, or explore the orchard and farm store at Morning Glory Orchard
Please check farm hours before your visit. Click HERE for more information.
WILLIAMSON COUNTY MURALS
Venture out and discover all of the amazing murals painted by local artists throughout the county, from Fairview to Nolensville and everywhere in between! Sign up for the free Murals Trail digital passport to easily find them all and earn a prize after checking in virtually at four or more locations.
THE FRANKLIN THEATRE
Opening in 1937 and renovated and restored in 2011 to its original Art Deco style, The Franklin Theatre is the centerpiece of downtown Franklin and now hosts movies, musical performances, and more. Get a great shot when the marquee is lit at night!
LIVE MUSIC VENUES
Eclectic Franklin spots like Kimbro’s Legendary Pickin’ Parlor, Gray’s on Main, and the Mockingbird Theater are great places to hear rising talent. At Fox & Locke’s open mic nights in Leiper’s Fork, you never know what iconic recording artist will stop by for a surprise appearance!
ARRINGTON VINEYARDS
One of Williamson County’s most visited spots, Arrington features incredible views of the rolling Tennessee hills and amazing wines, as well a live music on the weekends. Get a wine flight and a picnic to enjoy as you take photos of the landscape!
THE PARK AT HARLINSDALE FARM
Originally a farm before it became a 200-acre public park, Harlinsdale Farm was the home of Midnight Sun, one of the most famous Tennessee Walking Horses. Today, The Park at Harlinsdale Farm offers gorgeous views of rolling hills and wildlife and hosts various events throughout the year, including Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival each September.
Click HERE to learn more about Pilgrimage
Digital Passports
Explore all that Franklin and Williamson County have to offer with a digital passport! Sign up for the trail of your choice, follow the stops, then pick up your prize at the Visitor Center in Franklin (400 Main St, Ste 130) upon completion. Click on a passport below to get started.
NEW! 225 HISTORY TRAIL
Visit the places that have shaped Williamson County over the 225 years since its founding.
MASTERS & MAKERS
Sample local spirits and learn about distilling, brewing, and winemaking.
CRAFT COFFEE
Try signature lattes, seasonal specials, and more at favorite local coffee shops.
MURALS OF WILLIAMSON COUNTY
Find amazing local murals around Franklin and beyond.
SWEET TREATS
Indulge in desserts from freshly baked cakes, pies, and donuts to decadent ice cream.
GREAT AMERICAN MAIN STREET
See Franklin’s awardwinning Main Street and learn about its history.
HISTORIC HOMES OF HINCHEYVILLE
View the amazing architecture of Franklin’s oldest neighborhood.
Click HERE to sign up for a FREE digital passport and start exploring!
MIDNIGHT SUN SCAVENGER HUNT
Explore local history with a family-friendly, city-wide activity.
YourPlanTrip
Franklin has so many great places to stay! Browse a variety of brand-new hotels, luxury stays, and quaint cottages for your perfect getaway.
SOUTHALL FARM & INN
A luxury working farm resort with world-class amenities and on-site excursions
THE HARPETH HOTEL
Downtown Franklin’s first boutique luxury hotel
FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES
Newly built property near CoolSprings Galleria
EMBASSY SUITES
Pet-friendly hotel loaded with amenities
HOLIDAY INN SPRING HILL
Centrally located near historic sites, parks, and shopping
SPRINGHILL SUITES
Located in the hip, walkable McEwen Northside
AC HOTEL BY MARRIOTT
Located in the heart of Brentwood’s shopping district
BOOK YOUR STAY
Click HERE to view the complete directory and get a great rate on your next stay when you book through visitfranklin.com!
Southall Farm & Inn
The Harpeth Hotel
