The Places We Call Home: Get to Know the Communities of Williamson County
Over 260,000 people call Williamson County, Tennessee home. The county, split into 8 distinct areas, is a beautiful representation of Tennessee history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, follow along to learn more about the individual communities that are the beating heart of the local landscape.
Williamson County
Williamson County, established in 1799, was named after Hugh Williamson, a politician and physician from North Carolina, who served 3 terms on the Continental Congress and signed the United States Constitution. The land, first inhabited by 5 known Native American tribes, was largely settled by people from North Carolina and Virginia, many of whom were veterans given land grants after the Revolutionary War. After settlement, the county became known for its livestock and agriculture, particularly plantations that produced tobacco, corn, and wheat. Due to farming success, the Williamson County economy boomed, making it one of the wealthiest counties in Tennessee. However, the area was greatly impacted by the Civil War, its land occupied by both Union and Confederate troops. Today, Williamson County is once again the wealthiest county in Tennessee, still known for its history, economy, and rural landscape.
Arrington
Arrington, known for its gorgeous rolling hills, is an unincorporated community in Williamson County. Established in the early 1800s, the area, originally called “Petersburg,” was named after the creek that runs through it. Arrington is full of beautiful homes, historical churches, and buildings significant to Civil War History. The churches include Bellview Cumberland Presbyterian (1852), Hopewell A.M.E. (1876), Patton’s Chapel A.M.E. (1876), and First Baptist (1968). King’s Chapel, a historic Methodist church built in the 1800s, was used by the Union Army during the Civil War. Currently, the chapel is occupied by LifePoint Church, and is also an event space. The surrounding area is a private, gated community.
In Arrington, you can experience the Volunteer State like you never have before. Adjacent to its beautiful homes, Arrington is also known as Middle Tennessee’s wine country. The crowning jewel of the area is Arrington Vineyards, the largest vineyard in the region. At Arrington Vineyards, you can have a picnic and sip Tennessee wine, enjoying live music surrounded by the incredible beauty of the rolling hills. Another popular attraction of the community is Castle Gwynn, the astounding private residence modeled after a 12th century Welsh border castle. Castle Gwynn hosts the Tennessee Renaissance Festival on its grounds each May. This beloved event will celebrate its 40th year in May of 2025, attracting thousands in their finest fantastical renaissance-era clothing. Arrington is also home to Delvin Farms, a family-owned, organic farm that’s mission is to love the land and the community on it. Located across the road from Arrington Vineyards, their farm store is open seasonally, offering organic produce and local goods. Delvin Farms also sell at local farmers markets in Franklin and Nashville.
Events in Arrington:
Tennessee Renaissance Festival: Every Saturday and Sunday in May, 2025 at Castle Gwynn
Live Jazz & Bluegrass at Arrington Vineyard: Every Saturday and Sunday starting in April, 2025
Brentwood
The second largest city in Williamson County, Brentwood was officially incorporated in 1969. Long before this, however, the area was made up of 15th century Native American villages. Occupying tribes used the land to build mounds and as hunting grounds. There is some debate on the origins of Brentwood’s name, with some believing that it was named for its landscape, Brentwood meaning “a high place near the forest.” Others believe it originated from an early settler named Horatio McNish, who reportedly had an estate called Brentwood off of Franklin Road in the mid-1800s. During the Civil War, much of the land and homes in the area were occupied by Union and Confederate soldiers, with a brief conflict taking place on March 25, 1863 known as “The Battle of Brentwood.” Though this specific altercation did not amount to much, the Civil War severely impacted the farmland, plantations, and homes in the area.
Today, Brentwood is a booming residential and retail district, cited as one of the wealthiest cities in America. Located halfway between Nashville and Franklin, the city is considered the most affluent suburb of Nashville. The thriving area is full of places to eat, shop, stay, and explore. Many notable celebrities have homes in Brentwood, including Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks, Sheryl Crowe, and Kesha. The suburbs are an excellent gateway to Music City, with easy access to industry hotspots, but with larger plots of land and better privacy. Outside of its suburban and industrial landscape, Brentwood is also known for its hills and forests, rich with natural beauty. This beauty is showcased at parks and preserves such as Deerwood Arboretum and Nature Center, Marcella Vivrette Smith Park, Crockett Park, and Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary, a private nature sanctuary that offers guided hikes, campouts, and classes. Brentwood’s outdoor Eddy Arnold Amphitheater—part of Crockett Park—was named after Tennessee musician Eddy Arnold and hosts many concerts, events, and activities. Brentwood is also a certified, pet-friendly city in collaboration with Better Cities for Pets, so both you and your furry friends can enjoy all the city has to offer.
Events in Brentwood:
Brentwood Summer Concert Series: June 8, 22, BrentFest June 28, and Red, White, and Boom Concert and Fireworks Show on July 4, 2025 at Eddy Arnold Amphitheater
Fairview
Located in the northwest corner of Williamson County, the city of Fairview was incorporated in 1959. The area was originally inhabited and used by the Native American tribes who resided in Williamson County—Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, and Shawnee—and who traveled the historic Natchez Trace. Natchez Trace Trail and Parkway is a 444-mile historic and scenic route that runs from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Part of the National Park system, the trail was originally carved out by prehistoric animals, and then frequented by Native Americans. A huge part of Williamson County’s landscape and notoriety, Natchez Trace runs just a few miles away from the center of Fairview.
Fairview is known for its natural beauty, the crown jewel of which being Bowie Nature Park, an exquisite area with over 700 acres of forest and lakes. With over 17 miles of trails, the park is a great destination for hikers, cyclists, runners, and horseback riders alike. The park hosts several events, including beloved camps, movies, and festivals. Another unique stop in the area is Farm Fresh Vintage Finds & Creamery, where you can find new and refurbished home decor and handmade gifts, all while enjoying some ice cream. Due to its relaxed, rural atmosphere and convenient proximity to both Nashville and Kentucky military base Fort Campbell, the City of Fairview is poised for projected population growth and economic expansion, as well as increased community development. Just west of Franklin, Fairview is a friendly and active community worth driving through, exploring, and getting to know.
Events in Fairview:
Easter Egg Hunt at Bowie Nature Park: April 12, 2025
Nature Fest: September 20th at Bowie Nature Park
Fairview Arts & Craft Fair: May 10, 2025 at Bowie Nature Park
Franklin
Considered “Nashville’s Small Town,” Franklin is Williamson’s county seat and a poster child for Southern charm and American history. The city was founded in 1799 and named after Benjamin Franklin, who was a close friend of Dr. Hugh Williamson. Up until the Civil War, Franklin was the center of Williamson County’s plantation economy, which aided in making the county one of the wealthiest in Tennessee. The Civil War, however, destroyed the early prosperity. Union Troops occupied areas in and around Franklin for nearly 3 years. The infamous Battle of Franklin took place on November 30, 1864, and was one of the war’s bloodiest battles, costing over 8,000 lives. During the battle, nearly every home and building in Franklin was used as a hospital; several of these buildings are still standing today.
Although it took well over a century for Franklin’s economy to reach its pre-war prosperity, it is now one of the wealthiest cities in Williamson County. Despite its small town charm, it’s the 7th biggest city in the state of Tennessee. Just South of Nashville, the city is famous for its historic downtown and Civil War sites such as Carnton, Carter House, and Lotz House. Alongside its historical significance, Franklin is also known for incredible restaurants, boutiques, antique shops, and entertainment, both in the heart of historic downtown and in the Cool Springs business district. Another opportunity for entertainment, First Bank Amphitheater, is a unique concert venue in the Graystone Quarry, on Franklin’s southern border. There are tours throughout the city, highlighting Civil War history, historical churches, and hauntings. Due to its fast-paced growth and preservation efforts, Franklin offers both small town appeal and big city convinience. As an added bonus, Franklin restaurants and businesses are pet-friendly. In fact, the city is in collaboration with the Better Cities for Pets program, which installs pet waste stations in frequented locations. Southall Farm & Inn is a luxury retreat in the area, offering rooms and cottages alongside specialty programs and events for a tranquil, rejuvenating stay in Franklin.
Events in Franklin:
Main Street Festival: April 26 and 27, 2025 in Historic Downton Franklin
40th Annual Dickens of a Christmas: December 13-14, 2025 in Historic Downtown Franklin
24th Annual Wine Down Main Street: November 1, 2025 in Historic Downtown Franklin
Leiper’s Fork
Leiper’s Fork, settled in the late 1700s, is a tapestry of Southern history and the arts. Located 15-minutes from downtown Franklin, the unincorporated, historic village is popular among tourists and Middle Tennessee natives. Situated on the Natchez Trace, the area was named after Leiper’s Creek, which runs through the village. The creek got its name from pioneer surveyor Hugh Leiper. Once home to Native American tribes and post-Revolutionary-War settlers, the area was first called Bentontown, and then Hillsboro. Its historic district was established in 1801, and is the last remaining historic village along the Natchez Trace. It was recognized by the National Register of Historic Places in 1998, and is known to be a hub of Tennessee arts and culture.
Leiper’s Fork is known for its music, homestyle food, unique local shops, and high-end art galleries. Galleries such as Leiper’s Creek Gallery, David Arms Gallery, and The Copper Fox Gallery showcase and sell local artwork, from fine art to regional, artisanal goods. One of Leiper’s Fork’s most popular attractions is Fox & Locke, a well-known music venue inside the historic Fox & Locke General Store. The venue hosts musicians from near and far, and is famous for its Thursday night open mics. Leiper’s Fork is also the destination for rustic retreats, with many luxurious and peaceful opportunities to stay in the area including GratiDude Ranch, a private resort vacation experience on a charming mini-farm. You can also book private and special events at the ranch, and support the local agritourism. For a novel afternoon or evening activity, Wines in the Fork hosts wine tasting and dinner events in and beside the tranquil Leiper’s Creek. Leiper’s Fork Market is another popular attraction, a coffee shop that sells fresh produce and local goods. The community has become a popular tourist destination, with people flocking to the antique and vintage shops, galleries, and restaurants for a charming, refreshing taste of Middle Tennessee. Fans of mountain music, Southern cooking, and countryside living are sure to be charmed by the iconic village, a standing time capsule of the best Tennessee has to offer.
Events in Leiper’s Fork:
Almost World Famous Christmas Parade : Stay tuned for 2025 info, parade on main street of Leiper’s Fork
Pickin’ Leiper’s Fork Antiques and Vintage Show: Stay tuned for 2025 dates, held in the village of Leiper’s Fork
Fork Fest outdoor concert: Stay tuned for 2025 dates, hosted at The Lawnchair Theater
Nolensville
Nolensville is a family-friendly, tight-knit community on the Eastern border of Williamson County. The town was founded in 1797 by Revolutionary War veteran William Nolen. As the legend goes, he was travelling westward with his family when the wheel on their wagon broke. Because of this, he took notice of the good soil and resources of the area, bought the land and named it after himself. From there, the region grew into a small and prosperous farming community. As with other communities in Williamson County, Nolensville experienced military activity and occupancy during the Civil War, and is known historically for the military unit 20th company B, a group renowned for its courage. Another historical spot in the community is the Historic Nolensville School Museum, which exhibits town artifacts and memorabilia.
The small town boasts both charm and convenience, with its beloved historic district and amenities. Among other great shops and restaurants is local farm Morning Glory Orchard, a small, second-generation family farm that offers fresh peaches, apples, and home grown vegetables alongside local honey, cider, and baked goods. With even more to write home about, Nolensville is also is the origin place of Martin’s Bar-b-que Joint, an iconic, world famous pillar of Tennessee Barbeque. Nolensville is also home to Mill Creek Brewing Company, a locally-owned brewery that offers tours and specialty brews. Happenstance Social Lounge is another local spot where you can enjoy good company, signature drinks, and grab a bite to eat. Alongside an abundance of great food and drink, the town is also a great spot to find unique boutiques and shops. Many of the shops sell local, handcrafted items. Nolensville is also the perfect destination for those looking for specialty, Amish made food and goods. Nolensville Feed Mill is a popular Amish grocery store and deli. The Amish House sells handmade Amish and Mennonite furniture, home goods, and decor.
Events in Nolensville:
Broken Wheel Music & Arts Festival: September 6, 2025 at Mill Creek Brewing Company
Historic Nolensville Buttercup Festival : May 3, 2025 in Nolensville Historic District
Spring Hill
Spring Hill, established in 1809, is a beautiful and historically significant corner of Williamson County. Once hunting land for the Cherokee, Chickasaw, and Shawnee tribes, early settlers established estates and churches, some of which are still standing today. During the Civil War, Spring Hill was occupied by both Union and Confederate troops. The Battle of Spring Hill that took place on November 29, 1864 was the overture for the Battle of Franklin. Despite the tumult of war and natural disaster, following the conflict the town grew into a nationally recognized area for its livestock, agriculture, and education.
Spring Hill spans both Williamson and Maury Counties. Alongside its history, the city is also home to several great restaurants, entertainment, local shops, and parks where you can experience the natural beauty of Middle Tennessee. A great place for families, Spring Hill shines through its abundance of parks, Evans Park, Harvey Park, Walnut Street Skate Park, and McLemore Park. The largest park in Spring Hill is Fischer Park, complete with an outdoor amphitheater and ADA-compliant playground. Other recreational spaces like Towhnee Golf Club and Joyfull Arcade are great spaces to socialize and keep the family entertained. True to the city’s Tennessee roots, Early’s Honey Stand has been a Spring Hill staple since 1925, and is a classic destination to find good old-fashioned, Southern ingredients. Spring Hill has experienced exceptional population growth in recent years, following the trends of surrounding areas. Despite its growth, however, the city has maintained its friendly atmosphere and commitment to excellence in education and agriculture.
Events in Spring Hill:
Hill Fest : June 7, 2025 at Fischer Park
Experience Spring Hill, The Event: June 21, 2025 at Battle Creek High School
Thompson’s Station
Thompson’s Station settlers first arrived in 1780. In 1855, the railroad turned the village into a shipping center, where farmers from nearby areas would bring their livestock to be shipped off to market. The train depot, named Thompson’s Station after Dr. Elijah Thompson, was built in 1866. A replica of the depot, built in 1993, still stands in the village. Homestead Manor, completed in 1819, is another important part of Thompson’s Station History. The beautiful estate served as a field hospital in 1863, during the Battle of Thompson’s Station. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the manor is now a local event venue. Thompson’s Station’s 200-acre Preservation Park, named for its emphasis on community heritage and preservation, was the site of The Battle of Thompson’s Station. The greenway is marked with battlefield trail markers, and serves as a marker of the town’s history and natural beauty.
Wonderful entertainment opportunities in the area includes friendly parks, some good places to eat, and Company Distilling. The distillery is located in a former granary, showcasing the history of agriculture in the area. An official stop on the Tennessee Whiskey Trail, Company Distilling offers exceptional tours and tastings. Beyond food and entertainment, there are other opportunities to celebrate the beautiful, natural landscape of Thompson’s Station. Deer Run Camps and Retreats is a local, faith-based nonprofit that hosts camps and nature retreats for both kids and adults. The historic greenway has several trails that connect to parks in the area, namely Sarah Benson Park and Heritage Park, making it easy to explore the area.
Events in Thompson’s Station:
Holiday at the Station: Stay tuned for December 2025 dates and info, held at Sarah Benson Park
Deer Run Springtime Marriage Retreat: March 21-23, 2025 at Deer Run Camps & Retreats
Knowing the culture and history of the places where we live ensures that we have a continued appreciation for the legacy that, in many cases, was hard fought by the people who came before us. Now that you know a little more about Williamson County, take advantage of the diverse landscape and explore the towns and villages that make up our region. There are so many incredible ways to experience this beautiful piece of Middle Tennessee, from bustling downtowns to serene farmland. Deep roots and a storied history have established Williamson County as a beautiful and prosperous place to call home, from corner to corner!
