When you think of Tennessee, three cities might come top of mind: Nashville, Knoxville, and Memphis. However, Franklin, Tennessee is a city to add to your radar. Full of impactful stories, musical melodies, and surprising moments, this city is sure to pique your interest for multiple reasons.
Disclosure: I was hosted on this trip by Visit Franklin and Black Travel Alliance. These are my honest opinions about my experience.
Franklin Itinerary
Located about a 3.5 hour drive from Atlanta, Georgia and only 30 minutes away from Nashville, Tennessee, Franklin is an up-and-coming city with a small town vibe. Franklin, Tennessee had not been on my radar until the Black Travel Alliance presented a chance to visit through their Creators Weekend. Intrigued to explore a destination close to me, I applied to the opportunity and was excited to be selected.
Day 1: Discover Historic Downtown Franklin
We kicked off the trip exploring downtown Franklin. As an Atlantan weary of paying to park everywhere I go, I was thrilled to see free parking available! The downtown area is super cute, walkable, and has been featured in multiple Hallmark movies. Check out the boutique shops, the delicious restaurants, and the impactful history.
Accommodation: The Harpeth
The Harpeth is located within walking distance of Downtown Franklin, the ideal location for being literally steps away from a variety of activities, shops, and restaurants. A Hilton property, The Harpeth exudes a luxury experience with two dining establishments on property – McGavock’s Coffee & Provisions and 1799 Kitchen & Cocktails. The rooms themselves are spacious and inviting. The little nook in the corner had my heart. A few things that make The Harpeth unique include Whiskey Stories every day at 4:45PM where guests enjoy an included whiskey tasting alongside a brief history of the spirit, or any other story that staff decides to share; the variety of teas offered in the evenings; and the motion sensored water dispensers on the hallways of each floor. Additionally, live music can be found in the lobby area in the evenings.
Activity: The Franklin Hop Trolley Tour
To gain a brief overview of Franklin, Tennessee we hopped on Franklin’s Trolley Tour. Purchase a ticket ahead of time and head to the Visitor Center to start the tour. It provides the perfect opportunity to snag maps and ask the staff any questions of the area either before or after the tour – as it starts and ends at the same place. Live narration details the history of the city for about 50 minutes if deciding not to hop off.
Lunch: Gray’s on Main
After getting dropped off at the Visitor Center, we strolled over to Gray’s on Main for lunch. What was previously a pharmacy now offers locals and tourists delicious cocktails and meals. I ordered the Cuban with a side of fries. Although I wouldn’t consider it the flavor of an iconic Cuban sandwich, it was still good. I also enjoyed my Gray’s and the Giant Peach cocktail. Gray’s is also known for having live music on the second floor during select days/times!
Activity: The Experience Lab by charity: water
The Factory at Franklin is a bustling food hall, filled with a variety of dining experiences, boutique shops, activities, and more. At the time we visited, it was in the process of expansion, so there’s even more to come. One of the unique experiences found at The Factory is The Experience Lab by charity: water. Free to experience, this encounter showcases the importance of one thing most people, especially in the Western world, take for granted – clean water. Embark on a journey to witness how people around the world access water when they don’t have it readily flowing from their taps. Engage in interactive activities and learn tangible solutions for assisting in providing clean water.
Dinner: etch
Located within The Factory at Franklin as well, this upscale restaurant boasts bold, vibrant, and unique flavors. Get out of your comfort zone and savor the unique flavor combinations. I ordered the pork ribeye, which came with couscous stuffed winter squash, charred onion, butternut puree, granola spice butter, apple marmalade, grapefruit, tangerine lace, frisée golden beet salad, and oat crumble. There was a lot going on, but somehow it all worked.
Day 2: Music Mayhem in Leiper’s Fork
A short drive from Franklin, Leiper’s Fork is a playground of all things music and drinks. Spend half a day or the whole day exploring the area and all it has to offer.
Breakfast: Onyx & Alabaster
We started the day in downtown Franklin by visiting the local coffeeshop Onyx & Alabaster. There is limited seating downstairs; however, there is plenty of seating upstairs. I ordered the iced Alchemy latte and it was delicious – not too sweet. I also ordered a quiche which was good. Note: the quiche take about 10 minutes to heat up, so if you’re in a rush, I recommend ordering one of the pastries instead.
Activity: Explore Downtown Franklin
If you didn’t have enough time the first day exploring downtown, check out the historical monuments around the roundabout and make sure to see the March to Freedom Statue. Honoring the Black troops that fought in the Civil War, this statue stands tall and proud right in downtown.
Lunch: Puckett’s
We indulged in a delicious BBQ lunch at Puckett’s. Initially starting as a local grocery store, Puckett’s eventually grew into the local community hang out spot resulting in the restaurant we see today. You can still the remnants of the grocery store as the staff head to the produce section to use in the meals. I ordered the Piggy Mac, which is pulled pork topped with white cheddar Mac and cheese. I found it to be okay. The BBQ platters looked delicious and from friend’s reviews sounded like it was the move to order.
Activity: Leiper’s Fork Distillery
Whether you’re a whiskey lover or not, Leiper’s Fork Distillery is not one to be missed. Our guide, Paul from Scotland, shared his passion of whiskey with us. We walked through the entire process, getting to see each step and ask questions along the way. Then we got to sample the whiskey in its various stages. We learned the best techniques for elevating the flavor profiles and of course learned more whiskey history. I’m personally not a huge whiskey drinker, and I had such a fun time here.
Activity: Village at Leiper’s Fork
Another great place to spend time with friends is the Village at Leiper’s Fork. Think art galleries, mocktail bars, live music, and more. Bounce from one shop or restaurant as you explore the strip. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing spa session, a good crafted drink, some BBQ to savor, or even an oxygen bar to take some stress away, the Village has got you covered.
Drinks: The Tornado Room
Everyone loves a good speakeasy and that’s the case with The Tornado Room. Located under the The Country Boy Restaurant, head towards the green light to enjoy crafted cocktails and live music. The fun part of this speakeasy is telling the bartenders your flavor profile and they’ll concoct a drink for you.
Dinner + Entertainment: Fox & Locke
Open mic night at Fox & Locke is THE thing to do while in The Village. Make sure to make reservations to secure a table for BBQ dining and live entertainment. Talented musicians take the stage and sing two songs each. Although it’s a mic night, these contestants are vetted and all the singers are good! It was heart warming to see so many people get on stage and proudly share their passion with the audience. While we were watching, I ordered the special of the day which was meatloaf. I enjoyed it; however I didn’t enjoy the casserole of the day which was cauliflower casserole. I recommend getting a different side.
Day 3: Black History in Franklin, Tennessee
It’s no secret the United States has a dark and disturbing past. That proves to be true when it comes to Franklin, Tennessee as well. Although slavery is embedded in Franklin’s history, the city invites visitors to choose to look deeper into how the city is intentionally preserving the history and sharing the stories.
Breakfast: Biscuit Love
Right off the main downtown Franklin circle, Biscuit Love can be found. Order one of the many biscuit breakfast sandwiches to enjoy the famous biscuits that they are known for. I ordered the East Nasty breakfast sandwich, which is a buttermilk biscuit topped with fried chicken, American cheese, and sausage gravy. I also opted to add an egg. Biscuit Love also offers a variety of other breakfast dishes and freshly squeezed orange juice. Enjoy the homey decor while digging into your meal.
Activity: Carnton Plantation
Carnton is home to the largest privately owned Confederate cemetery. Carnton is also a plantation. 44 enslaved people used to live on the property. How do I know that? Because it was shared with us during our visit. I’ve never had a number explicitly shared before, so that stood out. What also stood out is the life size silhouettes throughout the house and the property, complete with age and gender on the back. They visually represent the trials and tribulations endured. There is so much history to be learned here and I appreciate the intentionality of bringing Black stories to the forefront in a way that honors their memory with dignity.
Activity: McLemore House Museum
The McLemore House, formerly owned by Harvey McLemore, serves as a beacon of hope for Black home ownership. We learned of the history behind the home and its significance. Walking in the footsteps of our ancestors while we explored the various rooms of the home was very touching.
Lunch: Moe Better BBQ & Fish
If you love a good fish sandwich, you’re going to want to find Moe Better’s food truck! A Black-owned food truck that offers two kinds of fish sandwiches and a variety of BBQ options and dessert proved to be one of the popular dining options of the weekend. I ordered the white fish sandwich with mayo, mustard, pickles, and onions. The sandwich was massive and filling, and I finished every single bite. I also ordered the strawberry cake, which was a bit too sweet for me, but still good.
Activity: Natchez Street
Explore Natchez Street and the history embedded into this area of the community. As the epicenter for the Black community, it’s no surprise that a safe haven was found here for Black travellers in Victor Hugo’s The Green Book. The new upcoming heritage and cultural center will be at 264 Natchez Street.
Activity: Toussaint L’Ouverture Cemetery
As a Haitian, I was bewildered by the name of this cemetery in Franklin, Tennessee. After learning of the Black history and stories of Franklin, I felt honored on L’Ouverture’s behalf that they would name the cemetery after him – to honor the strength, courage, sacrifice, and bravery of the men and women buried here.
Dinner: 1799 Kitchen & Cocktails
Wrap up the evening with dinner at the onsite restaurant in The Harpeth. 1799 Kitchen & Cocktails invites guests to feast with their tastebuds and with their eyes. Designed to seem as if one is sitting in a whiskey barrel, the restaurant is intentionally decorated with wood. With a seasonal menu, the restaurant sources their ingredients from local farms, which can be tasted in each bite.
Day 4: Festival Frenzy
Franklin, Tennessee offers a variety of festivals throughout the year. Make sure to research if there are any happening during your visit!
Brunch: McGavock’s Coffee Bar & Provisions
Before heading out for the day, stop by McGavock’s for some pastries, a breakfast sandwich, and some coffee. Or opt for more of a lunch meal with a delicious chicken salad croissant and a chocolate chip cookie. Outdoor patio seating is available for those who want some fresh air with their meal.
Activity: Franklin Main Street Festival
If it’s one thing Franklin’s got, it’s festivals! So make sure to check if a festival is taking place while you’re in town. We had the opportunity to experience the Main Street Festival, where I ended up buying a doggie place mat for my pup. There were a variety of vendors selling all kinds of things – belts, wine slushie mix, chairs, garden art, and so much more. Of course there was food, drinks, and music too.
Dinner: JJ’s Wine Bar
As the evening wraps up, head to JJ’s Wine Bar on the way back to The Harpeth. Choose from a limited menu of light bites and I recommend opting for the wine card. Select from a variety of wines. I enjoyed this immensely as it’s a great way to sample numerous flavors to find which you like best.
Franklin, Tennessee Itinerary
For a seemingly quaint city, Franklin, Tennessee offers a variety of activities for visitors and locals alike. If you enjoy music, Black history, and festivals, there is an abundance of choices and there’s a little something for everyone.
Have you been to Franklin, Tennessee before? If not, would you be interested in going? What would you most be interested in checking out? Let me know in the comments!
As always, thank you for supporting Life with Larissa. I appreciate you taking the time to read and comment.