Nashville to Franklin, TN: What to See, Eat, and Do in Downtown Franklin

Nashville to Franklin, TN: What to See, Eat, and Do in Downtown Franklin

Downtown Franklin, TN, is one of the most popular day-trip destinations from Nashville. Just about 20 miles south of the city, Franklin offers a perfect mix of history, food, and small-town charm. With its walkable Main Street, scenic parks, and lively local dining and entertainment scene, it’s an easy getaway that feels worlds away from the bustle of Nashville. 

Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or an afternoon visit, here’s how to make the most of your time and explore the best things to do in Downtown Franklin, Tennessee.

Getting from Nashville to Downtown Franklin

The drive from Nashville to Franklin is quick and easy along Interstate 65 South, with most travelers reaching downtown Franklin in about 30 minutes. For a more scenic route, take US-31 (Franklin Pike) through Brentwood. This slower drive passes rolling hills, historic homes, and tree-lined stretches of countryside, and offers the chance to stop at two of Franklin’s most iconic destinations:

• The Factory at Franklin, a restored 1930s industrial complex, is home to shops, restaurants, galleries, and performance spaces. Visitors can grab a coffee at Honest Coffee Roasters, a cocktail at The Skylight Bar, or a meal at one of the many eateries in this historic landmark. Kids and the young at heart can take a spin on the Carousel of Dreams or enjoy a treat at Fork of the South Milkshake Bar.
• The Park at Harlinsdale Farm, directly across the street, was once a working horse farm and is now a public park hosting festivals, concerts, and polo matches. Don’t miss the Historic Hayes House, open for free public tours showcasing Franklin’s agricultural and equestrian history, including exhibits on the Hayes family, Harlinsdale Farm, and the champion Tennessee Walking Horse Midnight Sun.

No matter which route you take, both bring you straight into the heart of Downtown Franklin, where you can park once, stretch your legs, and start exploring this walkable town.

Parking and Getting Around Downtown Franklin

Downtown Franklin is made for walking. Once you park, you can easily explore shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks on foot. Free two-hour parking is available along Main Street and nearby side streets, with additional public lots and garages on 2nd Avenue South and 4th Avenue South.

If you’d like to explore further:

• The Franklin Hop offers a hop-on, hop-off trolley tour with live narration and more than 50 points of interest. The loop begins and ends at 400 Main Street, with stops at local landmarks such as the Moore-Morris History & Culture Center, The Factory at Franklin, and several historic sites connected to the city’s Civil War heritage.
• Franklin Transit operates weekday fixed routes and Transit on Demand, a reservation-based, curb-to-curb service that covers most areas of the city.

With convenient parking and plenty of ways to get around, it’s easy to settle in and start exploring downtown Franklin at your own pace.

Start Your Morning in Downtown Franklin, TN

Breakfast in downtown Franklin is all about great coffee and delicious food that sets the tone for the rest of the day. Whether you prefer a sit-down meal or something to take on a morning picnic, Franklin’s downtown has plenty of inviting spots where you can start your day right.

• Frothy Monkey on 5th Avenue South serves locally roasted coffee and hearty breakfasts in a cozy, restored building that’s become a favorite spot for both residents and visitors.
• Merridee’s Breadbasket has been a downtown staple for decades, known for its scratch-made pastries, cinnamon rolls, and quiches baked fresh each morning.
• Perenn Bakery brings an artisan touch to breakfast with croissants, breads, and specialty coffee drinks.

For a hearty Southern breakfast, stop by Biscuit Love Franklin, a family-owned breakfast and lunch spot known for its scratch-made biscuits, served in a warm and welcoming historic home. Inside The Harpeth Hotel, McGavock’s Coffee Bar & Provisions provides a comfortable setting for breakfast or brunch. For a quieter, local hangout, The Coffee House at Second and Bridge offers a homey atmosphere filled with local art.

Explore Downtown Franklin’s Civil War History and Heritage Sites

The Downtown Franklin Historic District preserves more than 16 blocks of 19th-century architecture and landmarks that tell the story of Franklin’s early years. 

Around the Public Square, the Williamson County Courthouse (built in 1858) and nearby historic markers trace the area’s past, including its role in the Civil War. The Williamson County Archives and Museum, just a short walk away, displays local artifacts and rotating exhibits highlighting Franklin’s early settlement and development.

A few blocks south, along Columbia Avenue, the Lotz House and Carter House mark the center of the Battle of Franklin, one of the fiercest fights of the Civil War. Both sites offer guided tours for those interested in the city’s wartime history.

Back on Main Street, The Franklin Theatre stands as a reminder of how the city’s history continues to evolve. Originally opened in 1937, the theatre has been beautifully restored and now serves as a cultural centerpiece for concerts, films, live music, and community events.

Where to Eat Lunch in Downtown Franklin, TN

After a morning of exploring, downtown Franklin offers plenty of inviting spots for lunch. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite, a leisurely meal, or a family-friendly stop between shopping and sightseeing, Main Street and the surrounding blocks are filled with options to suit every appetite.

• Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant serves Southern comfort classics and barbecue in a lively setting.
• 55 South is a favorite for shrimp and grits or fried green tomatoes.
• Gray’s on Main, housed in a beautifully restored historic pharmacy, offers upscale Southern fare and craft cocktails.

For something lighter, try Franklin Mercantile Deli or Franklin Bakehouse, both perfect for a casual bite or picnic at nearby Bicentennial Park. Slice House by Tony Gemignani serves New York–style slices and specialty pies, a great option when you’re craving something quick before heading back out to explore downtown.

Main Street Shopping in Downtown Franklin, TN

Spend the afternoon exploring downtown Franklin’s shops, where history and creativity meet on every block. The walkable Main Street district is home to locally owned boutiques, a bookstore, and markets offering Tennessee-made goods, home décor, and distinctive gifts.

• White’s Mercantile, owned by singer-songwriter Holly Williams, offers Southern-made home goods and gifts.
• Landmark Booksellers, located in one of the city’s oldest buildings, specializes in Southern literature and signed editions.
• The Registry stocks elegant home décor and seasonal accents.

Fashion lovers will find locally owned boutiques like Emmaline, Franklin Road Apparel Company, Hollie Ray Boutique, Jondie, Boutique MMM, and Johnnie Q, along with national names such as Anthropologie, Evereve, and Chico’s.

Antique enthusiasts can browse Winchester Antique Mall, T. Nesbitt & Co. Home Emporium, Franklin Antique Mall, and City Farmhouse, known for its curated blend of vintage and modern design, as well as its antique pop-up fairs.

If you’re visiting with kids, The Purple Butterfly delights young shoppers with toys, books, and clothing, while Kilwin’s Franklin, Sweethaven, and Sweet CeCe’s offer fudge, gelato, and frozen yogurt for a sweet break.

Where to Get Dinner and Drinks at Restaurants in Downtown Franklin

Evenings in Franklin are full of great food, live music, and the kind of easygoing atmosphere that makes you want to linger just a little longer.

• Red Pony Restaurant serves elevated Southern dishes in a warm setting.
• Cork & Cow is known for expertly prepared steaks and seafood.
• 1799 Kitchen & Bar Room, inside The Harpeth Hotel, combines refined dining with Tennessee flavors.
• Culaccino Italian Restaurant + Bar adds modern Italian flair with wood-fired pizzas and pasta.
• Culamar offers coastal Italian cuisine and rooftop dining in downtown Franklin. 

Families and casual diners will find plenty of welcoming spots downtown. Mellow Mushroom serves creative pizzas in a lively space on Main Street, while McCreary’s Irish Pub & Eatery offers hearty pub fare and some outdoor seating perfect for a relaxed meal.

After dinner, unwind with a drink at one of downtown Franklin’s favorite watering holes:

• J.J.’s Wine Bar offers self-serve wine tastings by the ounce in a historic home.
• Amendment 18 Cocktail Club delivers speakeasy sophistication, complete with a secret entrance that adds to the experience.
• O’ Be Joyful is known for its whiskey selection and creative mixed drinks.
• Stable Reserve is a distillery featuring a bar built around the building’s original 1800s horse stable.
• Leiper’s Fork House of Spirits brings the craftsmanship of Leiper’s Fork Distillery to downtown Franklin.

Whether you’re sharing a family meal, enjoying a special dinner, or relaxing with a drink among friends, Franklin’s restaurants and bars offer a blend of Southern charm, hospitality, and local flavor.

Live Music and Entertainment in Downtown Franklin, TN

When it’s time for entertainment, The Franklin Theatre stands at the heart of Main Street, hosting everything from live concerts and classic films to community performances in its beautifully restored building. For live stage productions, Pull-Tight Players Theatre, located just off Main Street, presents classic plays, musicals, and comedies performed by one of Tennessee’s oldest community theater groups.

In addition, many downtown restaurants and bars showcase local talent in the evenings, including McCreary’s Irish Pub, Puckett’s Restaurant, Gray’s on Main, the Harpeth Hotel, Stable Reserve, and Leiper’s Fork House of Spirits, offering plenty of places to listen to live music beyond the big stages.

Just a few minutes away at The Factory at Franklin, visitors can catch concerts and comedy shows at The Mockingbird Theater, see professional stage productions by Studio Tenn at Turner Theater, or attend the in-the-round songwriter series at The Red Wheel at The Factory.

Best Times to Visit Franklin, TN

Franklin, Tennessee, is a great destination any time of year, thanks to its walkable downtown, scenic parks, and steady calendar of community events. Each season offers its own character, from outdoor concerts in the spring to festive lights and holiday parades in winter.

• Spring brings mild weather, blooming parks, and the Main Street Festival and Kids Arts Festival.
• Summer features outdoor movies, live bluegrass, and Franklin on the Fourth fireworks.
• Fall in Franklin showcases colorful trees and major events like the Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival, PumpkinFest, and Wine Down Main Street, plus Family Day at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm.
• Winter turns downtown into a holiday scene with Dickens of a Christmas, the Christmas Tree Lighting on the Square, and the Franklin Christmas Parade.

No matter when you visit, Franklin’s welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to see why this historic town remains one of Tennessee’s favorite year-round destinations.

Plan Your Visit to Downtown Franklin, Tennessee

A day in Downtown Franklin offers the perfect mix of history, food, and Southern hospitality. Whether you’re drawn by the city’s historic landmarks, local shopping, or seasonal festivals, it’s easy to see why Franklin is one of Tennessee’s most beloved small towns.

Discover More Places to Eat, Shop, and Explore in Franklin, TN

Looking for more ways to explore Franklin’s dining and shopping scene? Check out Fine Dining Guide Franklin, TN: Upscale Restaurants and Bars for an inside look at the city’s top spots for elegant evenings out, or plan your next shopping trip with CoolSprings Galleria: Franklin, TN’s Premier Shopping Destination. Food lovers can dive into Franklin’s Foodie Neighborhoods: Where to Eat by Area to discover hidden gems across town, or take a scenic drive with Tennessee Wineries Near Nashville and Franklin: A Guide to Local Wine Country for a taste of local vineyards and tasting rooms.