A Guide for Things to Do in Leiper’s Fork
Sometimes, treasure is hidden in plain sight. Leiper’s Fork, Tennessee, is just that – for now, at least!
The unincorporated, charming village of 1,100 acres is just off the beaten path of Natchez Trace Parkway, less than 10 miles from Historic Franklin, and 30 miles from downtown Nashville. Even though Leiper’s Fork has been named to the National Register of Historical Places, Google’s listing of “Things to Do in Leiper’s Fork” is left blank, giving it an unassuming air.
But, there is plenty to enjoy in Leiper’s Fork!
Established first as Bentontown in the early 1800s, Leiper’s Fork was renamed for the Leiper family who settled much of the area following the Revolutionary War. After many years in the shadow of a growing Nashville, a group of Leiper’s Fork citizens began working to restore the village in 1995 while also preserving its 19th century architecture and farmland.
Since then, it has become a country haven and escape from the city, even for the likes of Chris Stapleton and Justin Timberlake. It’s also been recognized as one of the “8 Most Charming Small Towns in Tennessee” by Travel + Leisure.
FranklinIs is a big fan of Leiper’s Fork! Here is our exclusive guide to things to do – and appreciate – in our favorite neighboring village.
Rest Easy at a Bed & Breakfast
Pot N’ Kettle Cottages is a locally owned and operated selection of five different Leiper’s Fork bed & breakfasts! With multiple sizes, several bedrooms and bathrooms, and kitchens with all the provisions, your family or road tripping company can stick together or split up to crash at the multiple cottages!
Dine Like a Local
For those who enjoy true Southern hospitality, and if you want to overhear friendly banter while savoring your home-cooked meal, give Country Boy Restaurant a try. They are famous for their breakfast! On the other hand, a best-kept local secret is The Porch.
If you’d like to be transported back in time, visit 1892 Restaurant. The 130-year-old home features beautiful wallpaper and fixtures and serves farm-to-table meals for lunch and dinner. While their menu changes regularly, you can expect high-end and unique offerings, such as challah, bear creek farm filet, and whipped pimento cheese!
Then, of course, there is Fox & Locke! Formerly known as Historic Puckett’s in Leiper’s Fork, the grocery store serving comfort food and drawing world-renowned songwriters and country artists to its live music stage now pays tribute to Jack Fox and Martin Locke, the original owners. Fox & Locke continues to feed hungry passersby and have live music five days a week, including open mic night on Thursdays starting at 6:30 p.m.! (Buy tickets in advance, because they sell out quickly!)
Take a Load Off with a Drink
Opened in 2016, Leiper’s Fork Distillery is ushering in “a new era of distilling.” The distillery creates high-end, small-batch whiskey using only local ingredients and limestone-filtered water. You can visit for a tour and tasting, and to browse the gift shop. Leiper’s Fork Distillery also offers discounts for military and veterans!
And, for the wine lovers, there is Wines in the Fork. A tasting room for you to sample Leiper’s Fork special edition flavors and other local wines, Wines in the Fork also offers outdoor seating if you want to sip your drink by the bubbling water of the Harpeth River running through the village.
Shop for Treasure, Home Decor, Apparel, and Unique Gifts
If antiques are a particular weakness of yours, Leiper’s Fork offers more treasure hunting than you might expect!
An eclectic shop selling antiques, collectibles, vintage and artisan items, Props is located in the Shops at Leiper’s Corner. Expect to be greeted by furry friends at The Pick-It Fence, where you can find farm style decor, jewelry, lighting, eclectic furniture, paintings by local artists, and more! And for truly elegant and one-of-a-kind homeware, jewelry, and fine art, look no further than When A Touch of Elegance Matters.
Other unique shopping experiences you are sure to love include Creekside Trading Co. for home goods and local arts and crafts, Patina Home & Garden for antiques, curated vintage finds, special keepsakes, and home decor, Textile Revival for clothing and art, Moo Country for free-spirited apparel.
At Christmas, Celebrate the Season
The “Almost Famous” Leiper’s Fork Christmas Parade occurs annually on the second Saturday of December. It is known for its animals (including pigs, goats, and cows), classic cars, and antique tractors!
