Things to do in Franklin
Franklin, Tennessee, pairs a deep Civil War history with a lively downtown scene.
Franklin, Tennessee, pairs a deep Civil War history with a lively downtown scene. You can tour battle sites and antebellum homes in the morning, then spend the afternoon exploring Main Street’s shops and eateries. The town also has plenty of parks and family-friendly spots, making it easy to fill a day or a weekend.
History is a big draw here. Carter House, Lotz House, and Carnton all offer guided tours of Civil War–era homes, while Fort Granger and Eastern Flank Battle Field Park preserve trenches and open fields. Downtown, the Historic Main Street District is packed with local shops, and The Factory at Franklin turns an old stove factory into a hub of boutiques and restaurants. For outdoor time, The Park at Harlinsdale Farm has trails and a dog park, and Jim Warren Park adds a fishing pond and skate park. Live music shows up at Kimbro's Pickin Parlor and The Franklin Theatre, and families can find playgrounds at Pinkerton Park or indoor fun at We Rock the Spectrum Kid's Gym.
Frequently asked questions about Franklin
What are the best outdoor places to visit in Franklin, TN?▾
Franklin has a good mix of parks and historic outdoor sites. The Park at Harlinsdale Farm offers 200 acres with hiking trails and a dog park, while Jim Warren Park has a playground, fishing pond, and skate park. For history, Fort Granger and Eastern Flank Battle Field Park preserve Civil War earthworks and open fields with walking trails.
What can families do with kids in Franklin?▾
Families have several options. Pinkerton Park and Aspen Grove Park both have playgrounds and are good for children. For indoor play, We Rock the Spectrum Kid's Gym provides a space for active kids. Chuck E. Cheese offers arcade games and pizza, and Tinkerbell Playground is another simple outdoor spot.
Where can I learn about the Civil War in Franklin?▾
Franklin is central to Civil War history. Carter House, Lotz House, and Carnton all offer guided tours of homes used during the 1864 battle. You can also walk the grounds at Fort Granger and Eastern Flank Battle Field Park, or visit the Battle of Franklin Civil War Museum for more context.
What are the best places for live music in Franklin?▾
Kimbro's Pickin Parlor is a small, casual venue with live music and pub fare, while The Franklin Theatre, a restored historic movie house, hosts a variety of music and drama acts. Both are in the downtown area and offer a different vibe—one is down-home, the other more polished.
Where can I shop in Franklin, TN?▾
Downtown Franklin’s Historic Main Street District is full of local boutiques and shops. The Factory at Franklin, an old stove factory turned into a mall, has local eateries and a weekly farmers' market. For bigger brand-name stores, CoolSprings Crossing is a regional shopping center with a food court and kids' play area.
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Chuy's
Chain serving "big as yo' face" burritos & other Tex-Mex dishes in kitschy, eclectic settings.
via Google MapsWalmart Supercenter
Connors Steak & Seafood
Neighborhood restaurant & bar serving aged steaks & fresh seafood in a warm atmosphere.
via Google MapsJonathan's Grille
Lively sports bar featuring a menu of burgers, pizza & pasta plus games on over 45 screens.
via Google MapsTupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
An all-day menu of Southern comfort food with a creative twist, plus craft beers & cocktails.
via Google MapsExtreme Escape Games
via Google MapsBrewhouse South & Sauced Pizza Kitchen
Busy taphouse serving comfort eats & bar bites in festive, roomy digs with games & flat-screen TVs.
The Factory at Franklin
Old stove factory, now a hip mall with local boutiques, eateries, events & a weekly farmers' market.
via Google MapsHouse of India
Casual restaurant with traditional decor offering a familiar Indian menu & weekend lunch buffet.
Breakout Games
Groups are locked in thematic escape rooms & given an hour to sort their way out through puzzles.
via Google MapsCulver’s
Fast-food chain specializing in frozen custard & signature burgers made with Midwest beef & dairy.
via Google MapsDrake's Cool Springs
Eatery & bar serving craft beers, burgers, sushi & pub grub in a lively, contemporary space.
via Google MapsChick-fil-A
Fast-food chain serving chicken sandwiches & nuggets along with salads & sides.
AMC Thoroughbred 20
Cineplex with 3D & jumbo digital screens showing first-run films, opera productions & sports events.
via Google MapsJ. Alexander's Restaurant
Restaurant chain serving wood-fired American fare in a contemporary space with a bar.
via Google MapsSteak 'n Shake
Chain known for steakburgers & milkshakes offering a dinerlike space with retro flair.
via Google MapsCracker Barrel Old Country Store
Homey chain restaurant serving American comfort food, with an on-site general store.
via Google MapsCarrabba's Italian Grill
Chain eatery & bar serving a diverse menu of classic Italian fare in a family-friendly setting.
via Google MapsCoolSprings Galleria
Indoor mall with a variety of shops, including department stores, chain retailers & casual eats.
via Google MapsPuckett's Restaurant
Friendly country store atmosphere with a menu of Southern classics, plus a full bar & live music.