They say there’s no place like home, but for me, I really mean it. As a travel writer, I’m privileged to travel the world exploring major cities and small towns, but there’s always something so special about coming back home.
Home for me is Franklin, Tennessee, and if you haven’t been, that should be remedied. Situated some 20 miles south of Nashville, Franklin is a quaint, once-rural town brimming with charm, character, and the friendliest people you’ll likely meet. Defined by its walkable downtown district plucked right out of a film set, Franklin expands to include a careful juxtaposition of destination-worthy shopping and dining and generations-old farmland.
Franklin is front porches and amphitheaters, farmhouses and award-winning dining, friendly locals and massive corporations. It all plays together perfectly to create a town locals love and visitors hate to leave.
As you’re planning your next visit to Franklin, we’re highlighting all the lodging, dining, and experiences not to be missed.
Eat
Breakfast
But first, coffee. Whether you’re looking for a trendy, modern cafe (Onyx & Alabaster) to get some work down or a small town, “everybody knows your name” option with citrusy chicken salad sandwiches (The Good Cup), Franklin has you covered. If you’re willing to fight the crowds in exchange for a photo opp (and a delicious cup of coffee), Hank’s Coffee Station is a newcomer that’s quickly catapulted in popularity.
It’s tough to play favorites with so many great options, but I fear I do. The Coffee House at Second and Bridge fills an entire historic home right off Main Street, with breakfast nooks for catch ups, armchairs for reading, and an outdoor porch swing that’ll be tough to leave.
It’s always an extra special treat when the hotel breakfast is a standout of the entire trip. If you’ve chosen to stay at Southall (or are willing to make a separate visit), Sojourner, the onsite all-day cafe, is the way to go. They take seed-to-fork dining seriously ehre—think fresh smoothies, generous platters with farm-fresh eggs, sprawling stacks of pancakes, and piping hot coffee served alongside a breathtaking view of Tennessee’s rolling hills.
Lunch
The most important meal of the day, I say. For lunching around Main Street, my go-to’s include Meridee’s for chicken salad or a soup and sandwich combo at the Franklin Mercantile Deli.
If deli fare isn’t for you, I’ll rapid-fire some other options: Fried chicken? Waldo’s Chicken & Beer. Nachos? Mojo’s Tacos. Asian-inspired Tapas? Mi Kitchen. Best burger in town? Ground. Happy choosing.
Dinner
If you’re looking for a delicious meal paired with an even more delicious cocktail, Gray’s on Main in Downtown Franklin is a sure-fire option. Request a table by the window for a double dose of dinner and people watching.
The Factory at Franklin (more on that later), brought two beautiful new restaurants to town: etch, from chef Deb Paquette, is more upscale and internationally-inspired, and Saffire is a Southern-infused fine dining option just down the hall.
Drinks
If you fancy a glass of wine, JJ’s Wine Bar in Downtown Franklin offers both vino and entertainment with its vending machine-style dispensers. It seems the speakeasy trend is here to say, much to my delight. A town steeped in history like Franklin unsurprisingly delivers, with Amendment XVIII (enter through the alley behind Mellow Mushroom) and The Tornado Room in Leiper’s Fork (follow the green light beneath Country Boy).
Before you leave, I’d call a visit to Stable Reserve, Main Street’s only distillery, a must. The locally-owned team crafts all their own spirits from gin to whiskey and cream liquors. If you’re alcohol-free, this spot doubles as a coffee shop all day and night.
If you don’t mind a venture outside of the city limits, consider an afternoon at Arrington Vineyards about 20 minutes outside of town. This stunning hillside vineyard is dotted with picnic tables and porch swings ready for DIY picnics and passed bottles of rosé.
Stay
The Harpeth Hotel
The Cool Springs neighborhood has plenty of big name options to choose from if you’re looking to max out your rewards points. But, might we steer you to our two favorite lodging options? For a stay in the heart of the action, The Harpeth Hotel is a no-brainer. Although it is technically the only option near Main Street, the team rises to the occasion here to create a stay steeped in Southern hospitality. Relax within its beautiful interiors, cozy up in the library beside the fireplace, fawn over a steak at 1799 Kitchen & Cocktails, then wake yourself up with a cup of coffee from McGavock’s onsite.
Southall Farm & Inn
If a rural stay is more your speed, Southall Farm & Inn promises an unforgettable bucolic experience. Situated on 325 acres of rolling Tennessee hills in neighboring Leiper’s Fork, the property houses stunning guestrooms, secluded cabins, two onsite restaurants, an ultra-lux spa, a speakeasy, and stunning community spaces prime for relaxation. But, Southall is more than just a beautiful destination; it’s a working farm dedicated to sustainability, education, and exploration, pairing pastoral charm with indulgent amenities.
Play
Indoor
Despite its relatively small footprint, there’s much to see and do in Franklin. If the weather calls for indoor adventure (like during that one snowstorm we get a year), The Factory at Franklin can keep you occupied until the last flake falls. Recently renovated and now bustling to the point that parking is a challenge, the halls are filled with local businesses, some of Tennessee’s biggest restaurant brands wafting their creations, and a centrally-located bar and seating area known to host everything from business meetings to first dates and girl talk.
Also indoors, Cool Springs Galleria has an impressive list of local businesses right alongside major retail brands. Or, skip the shopping altogether and opt to see an old movie at the Franklin Theatre on Main Street.
Outdoor
A stroll down Main Street is an adventure in and of itself. Take your time window shopping (or actual shopping; we won’t tell) through a collection of delightfully Southern businesses selling everything from boutique clothing to fine china and antique jewelry (*ahem*). But when it’s time to give the wallet a rest, enjoy the more rural side of Franklin with a walk around Harlinsdale Farm.
For the kiddos, SOAR Adventure Tower stands tall over town with 110 climbing elements adding to an exciting aerial adventure. If parents prefer to stay boots on the ground, a round of mini golf is always a good time here.
History
All across the South, history is a sensitive yet important consideration during your visits. Franklin’s past is not without controversy, but the town has made efforts to recognize and honor all parts of its past. The Fuller Story exists in response to controversy surrounding Confederate monuments – Reverends Hewitt Sawyers, Chris Williamson, and Kevin Riggs, and historian Eric A. Jacobson, worked together with the city to come up with a plan. Now, five markers are placed around Franklin calling attention to suffering and highlighting advancements of African Americans not only in Franklin, but around the world. The project is capped by a full-scale statue of a United States Colored Troops soldier on the square, right across from the Confederate monument.
More history about Franklin and its role in the Civil War can be explored at the Carter House, Lotz House, and Carnton Plantation, all pivotal locations during the Battle of Franklin.
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