Downtown Franklin’s historic charm shines in every season.
Franklin sits just 20 miles south of Nashville, but don’t mistake it for a city in the shadows. Home to under 90,000 residents and spread across 41 square miles, it’s packed with little treasures. Civil War landmarks stand next to boutiques and coffee shops, and Franklin’s brick-lined downtown? Always buzzing with activity. It’s all part of what makes living in Franklin special.
Ready to experience Franklin like a local? Here’s how people really spend their time here, from go-to coffee spots to slow evenings by the Harpeth.
The history in historic downtownAsk any local and they’ll tell you: Downtown Franklin isn’t just charming, it’s deeply historic. And that’s not just a tagline. This 16-block district is officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and it earns every bit of that recognition. Founded in 1799 and named after Benjamin Franklin, the town played a pivotal role during the Civil War. You’ll see echoes of that history in the preserved buildings, old brick sidewalks, and other war era remnants in downtown homes. But what sets Historic Downtown Franklin apart today isn’t just its past—it’s how the town honors that legacy. The preservation here isn’t about freezing time; it’s about respecting it. Locals rally behind annual traditions like Pumpkinfest, Main Street Festival, and Dickens of a Christmas, all set against the backdrop of a downtown that’s as welcoming as it is storied. Many of Franklin’s Victorian storefronts have also been restored and now host indie bookshops, locally owned restaurants, and boutiques. |
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WHERE LOCALS GO FOR COFFEE AND CONVERSATION
Franklin’s coffee culture runs on connection, not just caffeine. Sure, the drinks are great but it’s the sense of community that keeps locals coming back.
You can start your day at Frothy Monkey on 5th Avenue South. Housed in a century-old Victorian building, this all-day café feels like an anchor in town. You’ll see everyone from creatives on laptops to parents catching up after drop-off. Their house-roasted beans and seasonal lattes hit the mark, and the vibe is exactly what you’d hope for: welcoming without the fuss.
Another longtime favorite is The Coffee House at Second and Bridge, tucked into a 1904 home just off the square. With creaky floors, vintage seating, and a second-story lounge, it’s the kind of place you settle into for a while. Grab a honey lavender latte, find a window seat, and you’ve basically unlocked the cheat code to living in Franklin TN.
If you’re looking for something a bit more modern, Curio Brewing Company offers both specialty coffee and local beer in an open, communal space off Carothers Parkway. It’s a great in-between for casual meetings, weekend hangs, or switching gears from a morning cold brew to a happy hour IPA.
MARKETS AND SHOPS LOCALS ACTUALLY LOVE
Franklin loves the more personal retail experience. You’re just as likely to be greeted by the shop owner as you are to stumble across something you didn’t know you needed.
First stop: The Factory at Franklin. This former 1929 stove manufacturing plant has been transformed into a buzzing hub of artisan boutiques, food spots, and community events. It’s where people browse with intention, whether they’re picking up hand-poured candles, vintage vinyl, or hitting up a local art market.
On Main Street, White’s Mercantile (curated by Holly Williams) brings the charm of a Southern general store into the modern era with heirloom gifts, home goods, and made-in-Tennessee finds. Around the corner, Tin Cottage leans into personality with whimsical gifts and Southern wit.
For true antique lovers, Franklin Antique Mall offers the kind of immersive browsing experience that turns “just looking” into a two-hour hunt. You’ll find Civil War relics, mid-century furniture, vintage toys, and one-of-a-kind decor.
MUSIC, ART, AND HISTORY THAT STICKS WITH YOU
In Franklin, culture is woven into everyday life. From candlelit concerts to galleries in historic homes, this town lives and breathes creativity, with a reverence for the past and an eye toward what’s next. If you’re drawn to places that feel authentic and layered, this is your kind of town.
For those who love live music with soul
Live music in Franklin always hits differently.
Music in Franklin feels like a front porch conversation: intimate, unfiltered, and deeply felt. Locals know there’s always a good show happening when the need arises. Best of all, Franklin is home to a range of different venues to get into a musical mood.
Top of the list is The Franklin Theatre. Originally opened in 1937 and restored with painstaking detail, this jewel-box venue offers more than indie films. You’ll find everything from songwriter rounds and jazz quartets to nationally known acts playing to a crowd of 300. It’s the kind of place where every seat feels like the front row, and every show feels like a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Venture just 10 miles west and you’ll hit Fox & Locke in Leiper’s Fork, one of the most beloved music spots in Middle Tennessee. It’s part general store, part honky-tonk, and completely unforgettable. Some nights, you’ll catch rising talent working out new material. Other times, you’ll walk in and find a Grammy winner playing an unannounced set. That’s the magic of living in Franklin TN. Music is never far, and it’s always real.
When you’re in the mood for something more offbeat, head to Kimbro’s Pickin’ Parlor, a quirky venue set inside a historic home near downtown. With mismatched furniture, twinkle lights, and a kitchen that serves up craft beer and comfort food, it’s a come-as-you-are kind of place with a ton of heart.
For those who appreciate fine art in unexpected spaces
Franklin has quietly built an art scene that rivals much larger cities. Here, you’ll find gallery-quality work in places that feel personal and unpretentious. First off is Gallery 202. Located inside the historic Clouston Hall mansion (built in 1821), the gallery hosts a rotating collection of seasonal exhibitions, as well as local artists throughout the year.
For something even more rustic, Leiper’s Creek Gallery offers a unique mix of traditional and modern works, all housed in a charming weathered cottage. The artists here range from regional favorites to nationally recognized names, and the curators take pride in supporting both.
The Copper Fox Gallery in nearby Leiper’s Fork showcases artisan-made pieces inside a restored 1860s home. Ceramics, textiles, metalwork—it’s all here, and each piece tells a story. It’s a favorite spot for collectors and design lovers who appreciate thoughtful craftsmanship. And since you’re already in Leiper’s Fork,
For those who want to feel history underfoot
Franklin always builds on its history. Preservation here isn’t just about saving structures; it’s about honoring stories. And that’s why living in Franklin TN feels rooted in something deeper. This isn’t a town that forgets. It’s one that remembers with purpose.
One of the prime examples of historical preservation in Franklin is the Lotz House Museum. It sits just off of Main Street and holds some of the most intense stories from the Battle of Franklin. It served as a field hospital during the Civil War, and the original blood-stained floors remain, an unfiltered look at what life here once was.
Across the street, the Carter House tells another side of that battle. This was a family home caught in the crossfire, and its bullet-riddled walls are still intact. Guided tours dive deep into what the family endured and how that moment shaped the town’s future. Up the road, Carnton Plantation offers a broader look at antebellum life in Tennessee. The home served as a Confederate hospital, and its cemetery is the final resting place for over 1,400 soldiers. The grounds are vast, peaceful, and deeply moving.
POPULAR WAYS TO UNWIND OUTDOORS
Lazy afternoons, wide-open parks, and happy pups, just another perfect day outdoors when you’re living in Franklin TN.
One of the best parts about living in Franklin TN is how easy it is to step outside and breathe. The rolling hills, river access, and well-loved parks are all part of the rhythm of daily life. Here’s where locals go to reconnect, recharge, and enjoy the land we’re lucky to live on:
- Harlinsdale Farm, a 200-acre former horse farm turned public park just across from downtown. Locals come here for everything from morning walks to outdoor concerts. You’ll find walking trails, open fields for picnics, a dog park, and the iconic white barn backdrop. It’s also home to the Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival each fall.
- Pinkerton Park, just across the Harpeth River from downtown, is where families flock. The park features two playgrounds (one of them huge), a paved walking trail loop, river views, and access to Fort Granger, a Civil War site with panoramic views of Franklin.
- Natchez Trace Parkway, a scenic, 444-mile route winds through Franklin offering more than just a drive. You can hike, cycle, or just pull over at one of the overlooks to soak in the hilltop views. The Double Arch Bridge is a local favorite for photography and sunset watching.
- The Park at Harlinsdale Dog Park, tucked into the same grounds as Harlinsdale Farm, is an off-leash area and a favorite for pups and their people. Shaded benches and wide open play areas make it easy to spend an hour here or three!
- Fieldstone Park, nestled in a neighborhood on Franklin’s north side, is a gem for locals in the know. Baseball fields, tennis courts, a playground, and walking paths make it a go-to for afternoon activities and casual recreation.
- Jim Warren Park. A true multi-use space, Jim Warren offers sports fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, walking trails, a skatepark, and shaded picnic areas. Local sports leagues and family cookouts keep this park buzzing from spring through fall.
- Liberty Park, located off Liberty Pike, spans 85 acres and includes paved trails, a playground, and serene walking paths through wooded areas. It’s peaceful, well-maintained, and great for anyone looking to stretch their legs in a quieter setting.
- Aspen Grove Park, a small but mighty retreat off Cool Springs Boulevard with shaded walking paths that wind along a creek. It’s ideal for quick midday breaks, stroller walks, or low-key outdoor meetings.
- Westhaven Trails & Lake. If you live or visit Westhaven, you’re surrounded by well-planned trails, a picturesque lake, and outdoor events hosted on the community lawn. Great for walking, running, or catching a live concert in the summer.
From morning runs and riverside strolls to hidden historical trails, outdoor living in Franklin TN is second nature.
FRANKLIN AFTER HOURS: LAID-BACK NIGHTS, DONE RIGHT
The nightlife in Franklin is about low-lit lounges, front porch acoustics, and craft cocktails made right. Locals love the vibe at Cork & Cow, a polished downtown steakhouse with a moody bar and standout bourbon list. It’s a place where people linger over old fashioneds and well-aged filets.
For something more casual, JJ’s Wine Bar feels like an old friend’s living room, if that friend had a killer wine selection and perfect courtyard seating. You can pour your own glass and wander between rooms, or post up on the patio for the evening.
55 South offers a rooftop bar with skyline views, while Kimbro’s Pickin’ Parlor brings the soul. Between date night and catching up with friends, locals know the magic starts when the town slows down and the string lights come on.
READY TO STAY A WHILE?
Let’s talk about what’s next for you in Franklin. Whether you’re searching for a place near the square or somewhere with a little more acreage, the LCT Team – Onward Real Estate knows the market inside and out. We’re here to help you find the home that fits just right so you can go on living your best life in Franklin, TN.
Franklin just might be the one. Let’s find out together. Give us a call at 615.595.5883 or send a message today to get settled in one of Middle Tennessee’s most beloved communities.