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Franklin is a city of about 85,000 people about 20 miles south of Nashville, set along the Harpeth River in Williamson County. Founded in 1799 and named for Benjamin Franklin, it became a prosperous plantation town, and on November 30, 1864, it was the site of the Battle of Franklin, one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War, fought in just five hours.
Franklin preserves this history at the Carter House, still scarred by bullet holes, the Lotz House and Carnton, a plantation house used as a field hospital where the McGavock Confederate Cemetery lies. The battlefield parks and museums make Franklin one of the most important Civil War sites in the South.
Today Franklin is known for its charming 16-block historic downtown, with Main Street's restored storefronts, boutiques, restaurants and the art deco Franklin Theatre, a 1937 cinema now hosting concerts. The town hosts popular festivals like Main Street Festival and Pumpkinfest, and the Harpeth River greenway and nearby wineries add to its appeal.
Walkable Main Street area of restored Victorian buildings with boutiques, antique shops, restaurants, bookstores and music venues, often named among the best small-town main streets in America. Park in a free city garage and walk; weekends are busiest.
Farmhouse built around 1830 that stood at the center of the Battle of Franklin on November 30, 1864. Its farm office and outbuildings still show more than a thousand bullet holes. Guided tours tell the story of the family and the battle; buy combination tickets online.
Plantation house used as a field hospital after the Battle of Franklin, where bloodstains remain on the floors. Next to it lies the McGavock Confederate Cemetery, the largest private military cemetery in the country. Guided tours run daily; allow about 90 minutes.
House built in 1858 by German woodworker Johann Lotz, caught in the Battle of Franklin and now a museum with Civil War artifacts and fine furniture. Guided tours share vivid stories of the family who sheltered in the Carter House cellar. It is right across from Carter House.
Earthwork fort built by Union troops on a bluff above the Harpeth River, which played a role in the Battle of Franklin. A short trail with signs leads around the walls, with views over the town. It is free and reached from Pinkerton Park; wear shoes for uneven ground.
House built in 1880 by Harvey McLemore, a formerly enslaved man who became a landowner, now a museum of African American history in Williamson County. Exhibits cover family life, church and community. Tours are by appointment or on set days, so arrange ahead.
Greek Revival courthouse completed in 1858 on the Franklin town square, with four tall iron columns facing Main Street. It witnessed the Civil War occupation of the town. Admire it from the square, where the Confederate monument and seasonal events are found.
Movie theater opened in 1937 on Main Street and restored in 2011 as a venue for concerts, classic films and special events, with a vintage neon marquee. It is an intimate place to see live music. Buy tickets ahead for popular shows and arrive early to find parking.
Former stove factory complex from the early 1900s turned into a lively spot with shops, restaurants, a coffee roaster, studios and event halls. It hosts markets, concerts and classes. It is a short drive from downtown with free parking; weekends are the busiest time.
Historic Tennessee Walking Horse farm, home to the champion Midnight Sun, now a city park with old barns, open fields, walking paths and a dog park beside the Harpeth River. It hosts concerts and festivals. Parking is free; it is lovely for an evening walk.
Large spring arts and crafts festival held in late April in downtown Franklin, with hundreds of artisan booths, food vendors, live music and kids' activities along Main Street. Arrive early to beat crowds and use the shuttles from outlying parking lots.
Winery in the rolling hills southeast of Franklin, co-founded by country singer Kix Brooks, with tastings, picnic areas, vineyard views and live music on weekends. It is a relaxed half-day trip. Bring a blanket and arrive early on weekends, as the lawn fills up.
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