VISIT FRANKLIN SPRING 2021
Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge @monkeytrent
Spring is a great time to explore Franklin! From amazing food and curated boutiques to historic sites and great hiking trails, there’s something for everyone. Browse our Spring 2021 Guide to find inspiration, trip ideas, fun activities, and more to make your Franklin visit special (and safe!*).
Carnton
Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary
In addition to the fantastic guided house tour, there are
A hidden gem located near Brentwood, Owl’s Hill Nature
many wonderful outdoor spots to explore on the Carnton
Sanctuary is a peaceful spot to hike with a variety of
property during your visit. Located beside the house, you’ll
trails for every skill level ($5 per hiker). Sign up for one
find the beautifully restored garden and the Witness Tree,
of their monthly programs for nature lovers of all ages,
a giant Osage tree that was standing during the Battle
including how to inoculate your own mushroom log,
of Franklin. Other points of interest include the enslaved
guided seasonal hikes, and much more. Be sure to ask
quarters and cemetery, both a short walk from the main
about their owl program and conservation efforts!
house. Want to explore more? Walk the Eastern Flank Battlefield trail across from the Carnton parking lot.
*We are thrilled that you are considering visiting Franklin and all the communities of Williamson County. We can't wait
Natchez Trace Parkway This historic 444-mile parkway run by the National Park Service closely follows the original course of the ancient trace traveled for centuries by tradesmen and Native
to safely welcome you to this charming area. We politely ask that you follow CDC recommendations when visiting to protect yourself and others. Please go to tn.gov or visitfranklin.com for more information.
Americans. Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge, located at milepost 438 near Franklin, is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. This impressive double arch bridge rises 155 feet above the valley below and boasts scenic views. If you have time, follow the Natchez Trace Parkway to Leiper’s Fork, a charming village just outside Franklin.
Top 5 Hikes Natchez Trace Pkwy Garrison Creek Loop Trail | 1.3mi
Preservation Park
Harpeth River Ready to hit the water? Spring is a great time to take advantage of the beautiful Harpeth River that winds 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
Battlefield Trail | 3.4mi
Timberland Park Big East Fork Reserve Trail | 2.5mi
Crockett Park Loop Trail | 2mi
Dog Adventures, sign up for fly fishing excursions with
Marcella Vivrette Smith Park
Franklin Fly Fishing Co., or grab a hammock to set up
Enid's Eyrie Point | 1.5mi
along the river for a relaxing afternoon. 2
Spring Weeken Need a weekend getaway? We’ve rounded up some of our favorite spots around town to create the perfect spring itinerary. Make this weekend special with a trip to Franklin!
Friday Friday evening in Franklin is the perfect spot 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.
Spring Bucket List Whit's Frozen Custard Sweet treats
Arrington Vineyards Wine flight & picnic
Historic Homes of Hincheyville Self-guided walking tour
Pedego Bikes Electric bike ride
Owl's Hill Nature Sanctuary Wildflower Hike
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Main Street @teach_travel_repeat
nd in Franklin Franklin Farmers Market
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 Farmer’s Market! Try
at Biscuit Love, a classic Southern option, or Ruby
the 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 Park,
While you’re at the Franklin Farmer’s Market, head
located along the beautiful Harpeth River. The flat walking
inside The Factory. This retired stove factory is one of the
path is perfect for a relaxing stroll. If you’re feeling
most popular spots in town for great food and shopping.
adventurous, walk up to Fort Granger to see the remains
Stop by Honest Coffee Roasters to pick up an iced
of this Civil War fort.
Cuban before you head out.
Stroll down historic Main Street for boutique shopping,
Love history? Plan a visit to Carnton to take a guided
apparel, and more (most shops open at noon on Sunday),
tour of this beautiful home that witnessed the Battle of
or take a free self-guided walking tour to see the beautiful
Franklin. Hear incredible stories of that fateful day from
historic neighborhood of Hincheyville. Pick up sweet
the point of view of the McGavocks, the family living at
treats at Triple Crown Bakery before you head out!
Carnton. If you have time, tour Carter House to learn more about the Battle of Franklin and its aftermath. 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! Triple Crown Bakery
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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, both with charm all their 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 Nellamoon
shops, boutiques, and antique shops to explore. The Painted Dragonfly, Nellamoon, Nolensville Toy Shop, and Three French Hens are just a few local favorites! 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 or Wheeler’s Raid Distillery for a taste of Nolensville spirits! If you’re in the
Nolensville
mood for a night out, Happenstance Social is a great place for a nightcap.
College Grove 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!
Happenstance Social
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5 Hidden Gem Franklin Eateries You Must Try Cool Café Classic Southern meat & 3
Paletas Tocumbo Mexican dessert bar
Herban Market Organic bistro & coffee
The Coffee House at Second & Bridge Crepes, coffee and more
Big Shakes Hot chicken and fish
The Coffee House at Second and Bridge
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The Story of
Midnight Sun Learn how an unassuming colt became Franklin's Tennessee Walking Horse Champion.
Who Was Midnight Sun?
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One of Franklin’s most famous historical icons had
The Harlins moved Joe Lewis Wilson to the Harlinsdale
four hooves and a swishy black tail. 81 years ago, in the
Farm and began training the horse. He was renamed
summer heat of 1940, an all-black colt was born who
Midnight Sun because he was “as powerful as the sun
would change the Tennessee Walking Horse Industry. You
and black as midnight.” By 1944, Midnight Sun was
may know him now as Midnight Sun - but back then, he
shown in his first Celebration, the national Walking Horse
was little Joe Lewis Wilson. This unremarkable black colt
competition, which ended with him being named the
caught the eye of trainer Winston Wiser, and later Henry
“World Grand Champion Tennessee Walker.” The stallion
Davis, who brought him to the attention of the Harlin
gained fame around the world and establised himself as
family, who purchased the colt.
a legend in the Tennessee Walking Horse community.
Midnight Sun
n
Midnight Sun sired around 2,000 colts in his lifetime, may of which became legendary horses themselves. In fact, nearly 90% of Tennessee Walking Horses can trace their ancestry through Midnight Sun. After an impactful 25 years, 21 of which were spent at Harlinsdale Farm, the great black stallion died of colic in November 1965. He is buried in front of the main barn with the inscription: “Midnight Sun No. 410751. The Horse Of The Century. The Champion Under Saddle; The Champion As A Sire; The Champion Of The Breed.”
Visit Harlinsdale Farm Today Franklin visitors can enjoy the beautiful Harlinsdale Farm, now a public park, that features a stunning barn, walking trails, picnic spots, Harpeth River access, polo matches, and more. Don’t miss the grave of Midnight Sun located in front of the barn.
Midnight Sun Scavenger Hunt Explore Franklin and learn about our Tennessee Walking Horse champion!
Click here to access the Midnight Sun Scavenger Hunt. Once you've solved all 10 clues, return your completed brochure to the Visitor Center (400 Main Street #130) for a special prize.
The Park at Harlinsdale Farm
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The Coffee House at Second and Bridge