Location: Franklin
Top Things to do in Franklin
What to do and see in Franklin, United States: The Best Places and Tips
Franklin, a vibrant suburb of Nashville, is a blend of modern and historic, with trendy places to shop and eat and attractions that tell the story of the Civil War Battle of Franklin. The historic downtown district is nationally recognized as a Great American Main Street. Franklin’s attractions include Carnton Plantation, Carter House and Lotz House. Arrington Vineyards, owned by music legend Kix Brooks, offers free wine tastings and live music. Franklin is located 20 miles south of Nashville.
Restaurants in Franklin
1. Lotz House Museum
Overall Ratings
5 based on 2 reviews
The compelling story of the times, the family, and the fine antiques of the Civil War era.The Lotz House, which has been on the National Historic Register since 1976, is located in the heart of downtown historic Franklin, Tennessee, at “the epicenter” of the Battle of Franklin, which was a pivotal battle of the Civil War on November 30, 1864. Join us as we step back into Civil War history.
Reviewed By Sarah L
This house is beautifully built and has a rich history surrounding the Battle of Franklin. The tour guide was dynamic and extremely informative! He not only spoke about the Lotz family history and house, he also spoke of individual soldiers stories from both sides of the civil war. This is a nice place for a short visit (about an hour tour) where you learn a lot.
2. Carnton
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
A must see for Civil War and history buffs, Carnton was built in 1826 by former Nashville Mayor Randal McGavock. By the time of the Civil War, Carnton was home to John and Carrie McGavock and it was a large working farm. Over forty slaves lived and worked at Carnton in the years leading up to the Civil War. On November 30, 1864, the site was witness to the Battle of Franklin. Carnton became the largest field hospital in the area following the terrible battle, and in 1866 the McGavock Confederate Cemetery was established nearby. Today the cemetery holds the remains of nearly 1,500 Southern soldiers.
Reviewed By ozark_hillbilly - Central MO
I love visiting old plantations and my husband does not, but he said this was o'kay. Lol The guide was knowledgeable and friendly. It was neat to learn about the family that lived here and the civil war battles here and around the area. Overall, the place is well-maintained and the tour was good.
3. Carter House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
The Carter House was built around 1830 by Fountain Branch Carter. By the time of the Civil War it was a large agricultural operation. In the years leading up to the Civil War nearly thirty slaves lived and worked on the farm. The Carter home and property was consumed by the Battle of Franklin on November 30, 1864. One of the Carter sons was mortally wounded during the terrible fighting and died in the house two days after the battle. House tours and battlefield tours are provided daily and 360 days a year.
Reviewed By ThePackedBag - Sydney, Australia
Situated across the street from the (for my money) more interesting Lotz House, this one requires a lot more imagination and patience. Our guide was obsessed with the minutiae of the events and gave a very long-winded presentation. I had to leave half-way through as I just didn't have time in my schedule.
4. McGavock Confederate Cemetery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 312 reviews
Reviewed By Lori H - Anchorage, Alaska, United States
We didn't have time to do the whole Carnton plantation/house but we did make it to this cemetery and very glad we did. It is picturesque and makes you think about the battles and the war and all that was put on the line for it all. We also did some of the trail that goes around the battlefield. I'd recommend a stroll through this area and think about the history.
5. Downtown Franklin
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Located just a straight shot south from downtown Nashville, quaint downtown Franklin is the perfect sleepy Southern town. Visitors can easily spend a day browsing antique shops and boutiques and dining at one of its many ecelctic restaurants. Downtown Franklin offers an eclectic mix of antique shops, gift and book stores, art galleries and clothing boutiques. Franklin hosts several festivals each year.
Reviewed By devenportvic - Carbondale, Illinois
Downtown Franklin is historic, and chic! There are lots of really nice local boutique shops with diverse offerings from an array of exotic houseplants, to lovely clothing and cool outdoor gear! We love seeing a vibrant downtown that has remained true to its roots, that has maintained and/or restored its original buildings. A fun experience just a short distance from Nashville.
6. Leiper's Fork
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 228 reviews
Reviewed By 12dbryan - Nashville, Tennessee
I love to shop for art, gifts and unique items for my home in Leiper's Fork. Step back in time and warm by the outdoor fire pits, listen to music and get some fresh country air. I immediately destress and relax when I'm out there. I love the David Arms Gallery and some of the other fun shops. We had the meat and two at Puckett's. The fried chicken was good but the sides were kind of gross. The mash potatoes were thin and runny, the baked beans were fresh (from the can) and the green beans were just flat - nothing great about an over-priced lunch on a paper plate. I guess we'll check out The Country Boy across the street or the boutique restaurant a few doors down.
7. Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 51 reviews
Reviewed By Ontario76 - Oakville, Canada
We were driving the Old Tenassee Trail loop, starting in Franklin. A lovely circuit which included some park stops in downtown Franklin and talking to some of the locals. Friendly folks. And we visited part of the old Natchez trace, that we would later pick up again in Natchez, Mississipi. Amazing remnant of the trail/road system the pioneers and early traders used. Something to think about when you think today's roads take too long!
8. Winstead Hill Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 81 reviews
Reviewed By Gary B - Cleveland, United States
this is no politically correct stop-it honors the Confederate dead in the Battle of Franklin-as it should be. Use your imagination as you look out from this hill and see the Confederate generals debating the upcoming battle. You get a great sense of quiet history and a real sense of sacrifice here. Union or Confederate, you come here to honor bravery and sacrifice-period. Great place to think about history
9. The Factory at Franklin
Overall Ratings
4 based on 227 reviews
Built in 1929, The Factory occupies the buildings that once served as the Dortch Stove Works, Magic Chef and later the Jamison Bedding Company. A member of the National Register of Historic Places, The Factory is rich with history and a very careful renovation has preserved many of The Factory's original features and architectural details. Calvin bought the sprawling complex seven years ago and, after an environmental clean-up, began opening the facility in sections. Today, The Factory at Franklin has 83 tenants. Imagine that factory coming alive with concerts, dining, shopping, meetings, live theatre, art galleries, decorators' showcases, antiques and offices. Our unique facility can serve all this and more. Take a look at The Factory in its days as a bustling, working factory, then embark on a photographic tour of its renovation and transformation to the diverse and vibrant shopping and entertainment complex it is today.
Reviewed By RamonaL34
The Factory at Franklin is a smaller sized shopping mall but it offers some real unique stores, coffee shops, and donuts. I love 5 Daughters donuts, they are incredible. There is also a big chair to sit in for a photo op, and a lovely antique shop. Unfortunately the antique shop will be closing at the end of March. They have a lot of 50% off sales right now. Check it out before it disappears.
Parking is available for free in the lot. A lot of stores are closed on Sunday, but the coffee shop, and 5 Daughters are open. There is a nice place to relax at the front entrance. There are leather couches, tables, and chairs. It’s a good place to wait for someone if you don’t appreciate shopping or catch up with some friends.
10. Gallery 202
Overall Ratings
5 based on 67 reviews
Reviewed By candy y - New York City, New York
we have been at the gallery on our last trip to nashville and every trip we make we stop in to see the new art and jewerly . we always end up with very special items... its one of the best places in franklin.... the...MoreWe appreciate that you make us one of your stops while visiting Nashville/Franklin and thanks so very much for the wonderful comment. Please do come see us again soon!
TAGS
