10 Things to Do at The Factory at Franklin Beyond Shopping & Dining
The Factory at Franklin has become one of Williamson County’s most visited destinations. Popular for its eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, it’s a place where people meet for lunch, enjoy dinner on a patio, catch up over happy hour cocktails, or spend an afternoon browsing boutiques and galleries.
But there’s more to do at The Factory than shopping, sipping, and dining. As the complex has grown and evolved, so has its lineup of experiences. A visit might include painting pottery, catching a live performance, or even stepping into a professional photo studio for a quick, drop-in portrait session. From wellness classes to community events and open gathering spaces, The Factory has become a place where locals and visitors can spend time, try something new, and connect.
Here’s a closer look at things to do at The Factory at Franklin beyond shopping and dining.
1. Create at Third Coast Clay
Located in Building 8 at The Factory, Third Coast Clay offers a hands-on pottery painting experience that’s fun for all ages and skill levels. The studio operates primarily on a walk-in basis, making it easy to stop in and create without any advance planning.
Visitors can choose a ceramic piece, select their colors, and paint at their own pace, with staff available to guide the process. The finished pieces are glazed and fired on-site before being picked up later or shipped if needed.
Tucked just behind Fork of the South and near the Carousel, it’s a place where you can walk in and create something, making it a great fit for a date night, group activity, or solo creative outlet.
2. Drop In at The Portrait Lab
Unlike a traditional photo studio, The Portrait Lab offers a walk-in experience led by photographer Jeremy Cowart. Visitors can stop by without an appointment, step in front of a high-end LED backdrop, and complete a quick photo session in just a few minutes.
After the shoot, images are delivered through an online gallery where guests can choose from a few purchase options. The process is designed to be fast and accessible, using the same equipment and editing workflow used in major commercial projects.
Because sessions are walk-in only and based on availability, it’s a more spontaneous experience than a typical portrait session, and the results are one-of-a-kind images you won’t find anywhere else.
A closer look at the concept and process can be found in Jeremy Cowart’s The Portrait Lab: Innovative Photography at The Factory at Franklin.
3. See a Show at Turner Theater
Turner Theater at The Factory is home to Studio Tenn Theatre Company, a professional regional theatre company and nonprofit known for producing Broadway-quality performances and working with top local and regional talent. Frequently recognized among the best theatre companies in the Nashville area, Studio Tenn has built a strong following for its high-level productions and community involvement.
Whether planning ahead for a specific show or catching something on the calendar, a Studio Tenn production at the Turner Theater can easily turn a visit to The Factory into a full night out.
4. Ride the Carousel of Dreams
The Carousel of Dreams at The Factory at Franklin is a hand-carved carousel created by artist Ken Means, the result of more than three decades of work. Located near Building 8, the indoor carousel features dozens of individually crafted animals, including traditional horses and imaginative creatures, blending artistry with a nostalgic experience designed for all ages.
To learn more about the artist and how the carousel came to The Factory, see The Factory at Franklin to Welcome Ken Means’ Carousel of Dreams in 2025.
5. Take a Class at Ground Floor Yoga
Located in Building 8 at The Factory at Franklin, Ground Floor Yoga offers a range of classes designed for both beginners and more experienced practitioners. The studio welcomes drop-ins, while also offering class packs and memberships for those looking to attend regularly.
Classes vary in pace and focus, from slower, more restorative sessions to more active flows. The environment is designed to be approachable, with an emphasis on consistent practice rather than experience level.
6. Explore the charity: water Experience
The presence of charity: water adds something unique to The Factory at Franklin. Their Experience Lab is an immersive exhibit designed to help visitors better understand the global water crisis and the efforts being made to solve it.
Through a mix of interactive technology, storytelling, and guided elements, the space walks visitors through the problem, potential solutions, and ways to take action. Guests can explore real-world scenarios and learn about water systems used around the world.
It’s not a traditional attraction, but it offers an in-depth way to engage with a global issue while visiting The Factory.
For a look at what to expect, see Visit The Experience Lab At The Factory At Franklin: Confronting The Global Water Crisis.
7. Discover Local Art on Display
Inside The Factory at Franklin, a rotating art wall curated by the Williamson County Arts Council highlights work from local artists throughout the year.
The display features a range of styles and mediums, offering a snapshot of the creativity within the community. Because the artwork rotates regularly, each visit can bring something new to see. All pieces on display are available for purchase.
It’s a quieter addition to The Factory experience, but one that adds another layer of creativity to the space.
8. Meet Local Growers and Makers at the Farmers Market
The Factory Farmers Market takes place every Saturday from 8 am to 12 pm under the iconic water tower in the front plaza. The market is a curated gathering of local farmers, food producers, and specialty vendors, offering everything from fresh produce and meats to baked goods and prepared foods.
Open year-round and operating rain or shine, the Saturday market offers a consistent weekend option for both locals and visitors. Even without a shopping list, it’s a pleasant way to spend a morning at The Factory.
9. Explore The Factory’s History
Originally built as a stove manufacturing facility in the early 20th century, The Factory at Franklin still reflects its industrial roots, with exposed brick, steel beams, large factory windows, and wide concrete floors. The layout includes multiple connected buildings, open corridors, and outdoor walkways, creating a space that feels more like a campus than a traditional shopping center.
For those who want a deeper understanding of that history, Historic Walking Tours are available, offering a closer look at how the property has evolved. Led by a staff historian, these one-hour walking tours highlight the people, products, and key moments that shaped The Factory, with stops both inside and outside the buildings. A separate “Sips & Stories” option combines the walking tour with a beverage from The Skylight. For those visiting with a group, private tours can also be arranged.
Looking ahead, the upcoming Factory Museum in Building 8 will further expand on this history. Targeting an opening in spring 2026, the museum will feature exhibits focused on the building’s past and redevelopment, including artifacts, storytelling elements, and the return of the property’s well-known chandelier.
10. Spend Time in The Factory’s Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor areas surrounding The Factory at Franklin offer space to sit, meet friends, or take a break. The lawn areas near the water tower plaza are designed with a mix of seating, open green space, and small gathering spots. The space includes Adirondack-style chairs, café tables, and a small amphitheater-style seating area that’s often used during events. On quieter days, it functions as a casual place to step away from the busier indoor areas.
And no visit to The Factory is complete without stopping by to see “Rusty,” a 20-foot-tall sculpture often referred to as the Factory Man. The figure is constructed from scrap metal parts and was created by Franklin artist Kris Nethercutt. Commissioned by former Factory owner Calvin LeHew, the piece was designed to reflect the workers who once reported to the site daily when it operated as an industrial facility. The sculpture is a recognizable landmark and common meeting point within the property.
The Factory at Franklin: More Than a Shopping & Dining Destination
The Factory at Franklin continues to grow as a place where people come not just to shop or dine, but to participate. Whether that means taking a class, attending a performance, learning something new, or simply spending time in a shared space, the experiences available here add depth to one of Franklin’s most recognizable destinations.
As new additions like the museum open and programming continues to expand, that role is only expected to grow.
For a broader overview of everything the destination has to offer, see Discover the Charms of The Factory at Franklin.
