Beat the Heat This Summer in Franklin and Williamson County With Fun Activities & Cool Refreshments
Summer in the South can be summed up in a few key words: beautiful, humid, and hot! As summertime approaches in Middle Tennessee, we can plan for both incoming heat and incoming fun this June, July, and August. Not sure how to stay cool in the coming season? Here in Franklin and Williamson County, Tennessee we have a multitude of activities and treat options to help the whole family stay fresh!
Swimming Pools & Waterparks
A dip in the pool is a surefire way to beat the heat. Whether you’re looking to dive in or just splash around, there are some local places with excellent outdoor and indoor facilities for swimmers of all skill levels.
Williamson County Parks and Recreation has several conveniently located recreation complexes across the county, providing opportunities to stay active in every season. For outdoor pool access during the warmer months, daily admission for in-county residents is $3 for guests ages 3-17 or 55+ and $5 for guests aged 18-54. Children between the ages of 0-2 have free admission. For out-of-county residents, ages 3-17 and 55+ are $5. Guests aged 18-54 are $9. Find out pass information for all recreational facilities and amenities here:
Franklin Recreation Complex has an indoor pool and an outdoor pool/splash park. The indoor pool is reserved for swim lessons, water aerobics, and lap swimming. It’s open year round, Monday-Thursday from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays 5 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays 1 to 5 p.m. The outdoor park is open seasonally, between May 5 and September 21. Hours vary. The outdoor facilities are complete with water slides and a splash park.
Fairview Recreation Complex has a seasonal outdoor pool, which is 25-yards long and has 6-lanes perfect for lap swimming and competitions. The pool also boasts a Z-shaped design, water slide, and a zero-entry, sloped access area, allowing swimmers of all ages and abilities the chance to enjoy. The outdoor pool opens at 10 a.m. Monday-Saturday and 1 p.m. on Sundays. Like other Williamson County recreational facilities, closing times vary throughout the summer months.
Longview Recreation Center in Spring Hill has an indoor pool and an outdoor pool, the latter of which will open on May 23. The indoor facility is open Monday-Thursday from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. The outdoor pool opens at 10 a.m. Monday-Saturday and 1 p.m. on Sundays. Closing times vary throughout the summer. Outdoor amenities include water slides and water features.
Williamson County Recreation Complex at Nolensville Pool is an outdoor swimming facility set to open on May 23. The 6,000 square foot pool is fully equipped for recreational use, with zero-entry access and water features. The outdoor pool is open Monday-Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fridays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Keep in mind that from August 5 to September 1, the pool is only open on Saturdays and Sundays.
Local branches of the YMCA offer members a convenient variety of open swim options, swim lessons, and aerobics classes:
The Franklin Family YMCA has an indoor lap pool, a therapy pool, and an outdoor pool. The indoor lap pool is open year round, Monday-Friday from 5 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Sundays from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. Similar to the regular indoor pool, their therapy pool is open for open swim, family swim, and lessons, with an extra emphasis on comfort. The outdoor pool opens in late spring, and includes a fountain feature and slide.
The Brentwood Family YMCA has an indoor and an outdoor pool. The indoor pool is open Monday-Thursday from 5 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Fridays from 5 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Saturdays 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and Sundays 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Among lessons and aerobic classes, the indoor facility offers open swim, family swim, lap swim, and a water slide. The outdoor facility, which also has water slide and diving board features, is set to open in late spring.
Bonus: For those interested, the YMCA of Middle Tennessee is currently hiring lifeguards and swim instructors.
The Splash Pad at Fischer Park in Spring Hill is a perfect destination for families with young kids, with safe water features to play in. The splash pad is free and open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily between Memorial Day and Labor Day. There are tables near the splash pad, which are first come first serve. If need be, you can reserve a nearby park shelter for a party or special event.
For more information on waterparks and pools, including fantastic destinations just outside of Williamson County like Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort and Soundwaves at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, check out: Dive In! Top Places for Swimming in Franklin, Williamson County, and Nashville, TN.
More Outdoor Adventures
For a water-themed adventure, sans chlorine, there are several Harpeth River access points across Williamson County for your canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and fishing needs. The Harpeth River is considered one of the greatest fisheries in Middle Tennessee, and you can see why for yourself! Franklin Fly Fishing Co is a guided fly fishing company that offers 1-hour casting lessons, wade trips, half day and full day floats along the river.
Paddle Dog in Franklin’s Westhaven neighborhood offers paddle board, canoe, and kayak rentals, perfect if you want to get out on the water of Westhaven Lake. The family-friendly space (dogs included) also has great food, live music, and merchandise. They’re open Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Live music events are held during the summer on Fridays from 7 to 9 p.m. and Saturdays between 5 and 9 p.m.
For your thrill seekers, Soar Adventure Tower in Franklin is an aerial tower with 4 levels of fun and more than 110 climbing elements and rope course obstacles. There are different levels to choose from: easy Level 1, moderate Level 2, and difficult Level 3, customizable based on age, skill, or group size. Soar Adventure also has an 18-hole mini-golf course, making it the perfect spot for friendly competition on date night or during a family outing.
Walnut Street Skate Park in Spring Hill is another great stop for the daring, with a great facility for skateboarders, inline skates, BMX & freestyle bikes, and no-motorized scooters. The facility is open from dawn until dusk, and is use at your own risk for experienced skaters or those who want to spend the summer learning a kick flip. Helmets and pads are required on the premises.
For more fun and educational outdoor activities, Bowie Nature Park in Fairview is a great place to spend the day bicycling, horseback riding, fishing, running, or walking around the 4 beautiful lakes that occupy the park. Through various events and the Bowie Bowie Park Nature Center, you and your family can learn about the incredible ecosystems that make up our local land here in Williamson County. For more gorgeous hikes, visit and learn more about our local nature preserves.
Another opportunity for adventure and connection, Deer Run Camps and Retreats in Thompson’s Station is a great place to spend some time this summer. Nestled in beautiful rolling hills, the non-profit, Christian camp and retreat center not only hosts day and overnight camps throughout the summer; they also host family-centric getaways and events with an emphasis on fostering togetherness and spiritual growth.
Ice Cream, Custard, Frozen Yogurt, & More
A classic, American Summer is incomplete without a refreshing dessert! Here are some of the best places to grab a sweet, cold scoop here in Williamson County, Tennessee:
Andy’s Frozen Custard has been serving up delicious custard since 1986. The Spring Hill location is open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Beach Co. Chill in Spring Hill serves up Tennessee’s finest Hawaiian-style shaved ice. The sweet trailer is parked in front of their sister company, Hidden Seed Plant Shop, and is typically open from 12-5 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, though customers are encouraged to stay up to date with their social media to double-check times.
Chill-N is ice cream like you’ve never seen it before. The fresh, made-to-order liquid nitrogen ice cream is completely customizable (including milk alternatives). Not only is the cutting edge technology cool, it also creates a smooth, creamy texture. Their Brentwood location is open Monday-Thursday from 1 to 9 p.m., Fridays from 1 to 10 p.m., Saturdays from 12 to 10 p.m., and Sundays from 12 to 9 p.m.
Fork of the South, located in The Factory at Franklin, is a general store that partners with over 85 artisans and makers. This includes daily, homemade ice cream through Fork of the South Scoops and the incredible Franklin Milkshake Bar. Fork of the South is open Monday-Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sundays from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Handel’s has been serving up homemade ice cream since 1945. The legacy began in Youngtown, Ohio, when Alice Handel began using ingredients from her garden to make ice cream for her neighbors. The franchise’s Franklin location is open Sunday-Thursday from 12 to 9 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 12 to 10 p.m.
Sweethaven is a family owned sweet shop with 2 Williamson County locations: Westhaven and historic downtown Franklin. The shop serves fresh frozen yogurt and super premium, hand dipped ice cream, complete with a sprinkle bar, among other treats. They’re open daily from 12 to 9 p.m.
Kilwin’s has been an American classic since 1947, selling premium ice cream, chocolates, and more, all made using original recipes. The downtown Franklin location is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
Jeni’s Ice Cream is a well-known and popular ice cream choice for fans of their smooth texture and unique flavors. In Williamson County, there is 1 location in Brentwood and 3 in Franklin. The Factory at Franklin location has special summer hours, and are open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Sweet CeCe’s takes self-serve frozen yogurt to the next level, also offering ice cream, frozen custard, gelato, sorbet, and more. There are currently 4 Williamson County locations: Franklin, Cool Springs, Nolensville, and Spring Hill. The shop is open Monday -Thursday from 12 to 9 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 12 to 10 p.m., and Sundays from 12 to 8 p.m.
Whit’s Frozen Custard first came to Tennessee in 2016, opening its doors in Franklin. Whit’s custard, served generously in cups of cones, comes in a variety of incredible flavors, and with toppings! There’s now a second Williamson County location in Spring Hill, open daily from 12 to 9 p.m. The Franklin Whit’s is open Monday -Friday from 12 to 9 p.m. and 2:30 to 9 p.m. Sundays.
Smoothies & Fresh Juices
If you need an energy boost or an extra refreshing beverage, check out some great places to grab a smoothie or fresh juice in Williamson County:
Clean Juice in Cool Springs serves organic smoothies, acai Bowls, cold-pressed juices, sandwiches, salads, wraps and more. The Cool Springs location is open Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
E + Rose in Brentwood is a superfood eatery, serving top rated juice, smoothies, and smoothie bowls made with natural, whole ingredients. They are open Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Franklin Juice Cafe sells smoothies, juices, acai/smoothie bowls, and other fresh bites. They’re open Monday -Friday from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Franklin Juice Company is known for their fresh smoothies, acai bowls, and nutrient dense selection of cold-pressed juice. The shop is open daily from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Herban Market is a family-owned health food market in Franklin, Tennessee. Alongside fresh produce, supplements, and their organic, locally sourced menu, the market has a great selection of smoothies, complete with a variety of nutritious additions you can add for an extra health boost.
Juice Bar: Brentwood serves homemade juices, smoothies, acai bowls, coffee, and some small bites. They are passionate about serving their customers nutritious products without sacrificing great taste. They are open Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Lokales Juice in Nolensville is locally owned and operated. They serve natural and organic-raw juice, smoothies, juice cleanses, overnight oats, wellness shots, and popular yogurt and acai bowls. The shop is open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Play Inside
Some days are just too hot to handle. If you still want to get out of the house, there are still some great ways to stay entertained and active, air conditioning included!
Brentwood Skate Center is the premier roller rink in the area. This summer, you can book a private event at the center or drop by one of their scheduled skate sessions. Tuesdays they offer after-school skate from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday is 18-and-up skate from 6 to 9 p.m. Fridays they have family skate from 5 to 7 p.m., followed by teens-and-up skating from 7 to 10 p.m. On Saturdays from 1 to 5 p.m. all ages are welcome, with teen skate night from 7 to 10:30 p.m. Sunday family skating is from 1 to 5 p.m. Private parties can be reserved on Wednesdays or Sundays from 6 to 8 p.m. Admission and skate rental costs vary.
Franklin Family Entertainment Center is fun for the whole family! The bowling alley has 24 lanes of traditional bowling, 6 lanes of Hwy 66 mini-bowling, an arcade, a snack bar, and J’s Sports Grill, complete with 3 billiard tables and a full bar. They offer free bowling for kids between April 15 and August 15, through their membership program IncredaBOWL. Free games are valid everyday except for Fridays and Saturdays after 5 p.m. The center is open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Joyfull Arcade in Spring Hill is a fun way to spend an afternoon bonding over games old and new, from classics like Pac-man and Galaga to newly released virtual reality flight and racing simulators. There are several ways to enjoy the arcade, from a la carte hourly play rates ($25 per hour at the arcade) to monthly and yearly payment plans ($65 per month on the monthly plan or $45 per month on the yearly plan) for repeat customers. All-day arcade passes start at $50. Along with opportunities to book the arcade for parties and special events, Joyfull Arcade also hosts Tournament Tuesdays, allowing gamers to gather and compete at their favorite games in a fun, community space.
Kings Dining and Entertainment in Franklin is a retro-themed gaming and entertainment center, complete with a great selection of food and drink, bowling, billiards, arcades, and big screens. Kings is a great place to gather with family and friends, in a group of any size. The Whiskey Room Live, which is located inside Kings Dining and Entertainment, has regular live music and karaoke. Kings is open Monday-Thursday from 4 to 11 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to midnight, and Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Nolensville Toy Shop is a fun, novel stop with the kids, especially on hot days when entertainment is hard to come by. The shop opened in the charming small town of Nolensville in 2012, and is owned and operated by a mother of 4 who noticed a lack of convenient places to find quality toys and kids items in the area. Whether you’re shopping for a special occasion, or just want to stop by to let the kids explore and play, you’re encouraged to stop by a browse the fun shop, which is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Crag is a rock climbing gym in Franklin, with over 5,000 feet of climbing elevation. Among regular daily climbs, fitness classes, yoga, and events, the Crag also offers youth programs and clubs for kids 3 and up, including competitive teams, seasonal camps, and recreational leagues. Rates vary from single day passes, multi-visit bundles, and membership. The Crag is a great place for people of all ages to stay active—this summer or otherwise—in an adventurous, indoor environment. The Franklin location is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. (between 7 and 9 a.m. is members only), Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sundays from 12 to 6 p.m.
The Monkeys Treehouse in Brentwood is an indoor playground for kids between the ages of 0 and 8. They offer open play, classes, birthday parties or special events, private play-dates, drop-in care, and co-working space. Day passes start at $15 per child, which includes 2 free adults. Monthly memberships start at $45. For drop-in care, The Monkey Treehouse provides childcare for up to 3 hours, as long as the guardian stays within a 15 minute radius of the facility. Co-working space allows for your child to play while you get work done in a designated area. Open play hours are Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays, and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays.
TN Art Yard, which has Williamson County locations in Franklin and Spring Hill, is a kid’s creative studio that offers workshops and camps in a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpting, brick stop motion, doll house customization, and more! Other programs include opportunities for daily art play, a sensory playground, art history, sewing. Programs vary in price, depending on duration and level. Daily art play, which varies in duration, is open to children over 18 months and their parents, and costs $12.50 per visit. TN Art Yard offers convenient pricing for returning customers, through their Art Play Packs. The main goal of each student-led class and camp is to give kids the change to experience art and learn about the experience of making, with emphasis on the process
TN Kids Co in Nolensville is a 3-level indoor playground that prides itself in providing a safe and clean environment. For kids between the ages of 1 and 2 years old, day passes are $14.95 for all day play. Kids aged 3 to 10 are $19.95, a price that includes 2 adult supervisors. If there is an additional adult present, the cost is $5. Kids under 1 year old are $7.95, or free if accompanying a paid sibling. With your “all day” daily admission, you’re free to leave the facility and return to play! TN Kids Cos does events and playdate parties; Sundays are reserved for private parties. They are open Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Urban Air Adventure Park in Cool Springs is an epic experience. With incredible trampolines, climbing walls, obstacle courses, virtual reality, games, and more, it’s a great place to spend an indoor family day or throw a birthday party. Deluxe Attraction tickets are $24.99 per person and Ultimate Attraction tickets, which include access to all of the fun, are $33.99. If your kids really love Urban Air, you can buy an unlimited summer play pass for $59.99, allowing for 120 days of endless free play. Among other accolades, the trampoline park and indoor playground has been dubbed one of the best places to take energetic kids. The Cool Springs location is open Monday-Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m., Fridays from 4 to 9 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
For more ways to stay active indoors, check out more opportunities to play here in Williamson County!
Have a Great Summer Franklin & Williamson County!
For more exciting activities to enjoy this summer, consider options just outside of Williamson County. Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center is a lively place to spend the day in a comfortable, indoor setting—with or without the kids! If you still want to spend the day getting some sunshine, you and yours could make a short trek to one of the stunning waterfalls within 3 hours of Franklin, Tennessee. For more adrenaline-boosting fun, consider taking a road trip to nearby amusements: Roller Coasters, Water Parks, Zip Lines, and More! or visit nearby outdoor destinations to Hike, Boat, Camp, Fish, and More! For even more family-friendly fun, check out 21 Fun Things to do with Kids in Franklin and Williamson County, Tennessee. For families looking for camps for kids, here is The Complete Guide to Camps In and Around Franklin, TN.
However you decide to spend it, summertime is a great opportunity to stay active, get outdoors, and spend quality time with the people you love. Whatever choose you do this summer, we hope you stay cool, Williamson County!
