Not what you’d expect from Middle Tennessee? 🤠
🔗 for my full travel guide, and save the highlights below ⤵
Psst - follow for more unique travel itineraries & sustainable travel tips!
THINGS TO DO in FRANKLIN:
🦙 Chill with alpacas at Coleman Valley Alpaca Farm
🎸 Play a guitar that’s way above your skill level (and shop for sustainable, local gifts) at Patina Home & Garden
🍷 Sip local wine in a creek at Crown Winery Leiper’s Fork (🔥 Pro tip - if you ask nicely & promise to be careful, they’ll give you a real glass instead of disposable plastic.)
🎨 Browse amazing local art Leiper’s Creek Gallery
🎶 Catch an open-mic night at Fox & Locke (book in advance) or a chill evening at Legendary Kimbros
➕ And so many more in the guide!
HOTELS:
🥱 Harpeth Hotel - the ONLY hotel in Franklin’s historic downtown, perfect location - walkable to music, shopping & trails. Plus free whiskey.
FAVE FRANKLIN RESTAURANTS:
🦐 Gray’s on Main for southern staples, like the excellent shrimp & grits, and live music!
🍹 Leiper’s Fork Distillery for great cocktails with spirits made with local ingredients
🥩 1799 Kitchen if you’re treating yourself to a steak, they serve grass-fed beef from a local family farm and it was worth it!
🥐 Perenn Bakery for some of the best pastries outside of France, excellent espresso, and SALADS for lunch!
🫖 Triple Crown Bakery for the charm, the butter, the fancy tea service!
MUSICIANS in the video:
* Rhonda Funk played at Gray’s
* Anthony Adams played at Kimbros
PRESS TRIP with Visit Franklin Tennessee
Having spent some time exploring Franklin, Tennessee, I can confidently say it's a charming destination that blends history, culture, and sustainability in a delightful way. One of my favorite experiences was visiting Coleman Valley Alpaca Farm—interacting with the alpacas added a relaxing and delightful touch to the trip. The farm’s approach to responsible animal care aligns well with sustainable travel values, which makes the visit even more meaningful. When it comes to local flavor, I was impressed by the food scene. Gray’s on Main offers southern classics like shrimp & grits enhanced by live music, creating a vibrant atmosphere that invites you to linger. For those who appreciate farm-to-table principles, 1799 Kitchen’s grass-fed steaks beautifully showcase local agricultural efforts. Not to be missed are the pastries from Perenn Bakery—truly some of the best outside France—and the charming tea service at Triple Crown Bakery, which perfectly rounds out a day of exploring. For wine lovers, sipping at Crown Winery in Leiper’s Fork was a unique and memorable experience—especially enjoying the wine by the creek in a reusable glass when requested. It’s a small but important insight into how local businesses embrace sustainability. Music is truly the heartbeat of Franklin’s evenings. Catching an open-mic night at Fox & Locke offers a sense of community and showcases local talent, making it not just a night out but a cultural immersion. Legendary Kimbros also offers relaxed vibes and quality performances worth experiencing. The Harpeth Hotel stands out as the ideal place to stay for visitors wanting to be in the center of Franklin’s vibrant downtown. Its location makes it easy to walk to many attractions, and yes, the complimentary whiskey is a nice touch! This trip reminded me how sustainable travel can be full of rich experiences without compromising local ecosystems or culture. Franklin’s local artists, artisans, and farmers all contribute to a destination that feels both authentic and welcoming. For anyone looking to escape the typical city vibe and indulge in a unique, eco-conscious getaway, Franklin, Tennessee, offers an inviting landscape filled with charm, creativity, and community spirit.
