is Never Enough

Robin O’Neal Smith Freelance TravelWriter RobinOnealSmith.com

an entertaining 90-minute loop with guides pointing out points of interest.

Guests can get off and explore at any stops along the route, including the visitor center, the Factory at Franklin, Carnton, the Carter & Lotz Houses, and the village of Leiper’s Fork. Tickets are available at the downtown visitor center or online through FranklinHop.com.

The history of Franklin is fascinating - from the Civil War to the present day, there’s so much to learn about this city.

Franklin is rich in history and has several historical sites to visit. If you’re interested in the Civil War, there are several battlefields, and Carnton is worth checking out.

The town square is in the middle of town, on the main street. It is an area that includes a memorial for the soldiers from Franklin of the Civil War. It was erected on the 35th anniversary of the Battle of Franklin.

The square also includes four 1847 cannons, lights, and flowering plants. The markers share the Battle of Franklin story, how the market house was used for purchasing and selling human beings in the early years, reconstruction, the deadly Riot of 1867, and the local involvement of the U.S. Colored Troops.

In the fall of 2021, a new March to Freedom statue was officially unveiled. In a Civil War uniform, it depicts an African American soldier standing with one foot on a stump and a rifle across his knee. It honors the U.S. Colored Troop soldiers who marched in the fight against Confederate soldiers and their continued march for freedom after the war ended. It is one of only a few in the U.S. portraying an African American Civil War soldier.

The shops and restaurants in Franklin offer locally made goods and delicious southern cuisine. From antique stores filled with treasures from days gone by to modern boutiques selling trendy items - there’s something here for everyone!

Most businesses in Franklin welcome dogs. You will know if they are welcome when you see a white dog bowl outside.

Remember to check out some of the local eateries, too; the food is incredible - from southern BBQ to fine dining, you’ll find everything your taste buds are looking for. I was impressed with the abundant restaurants in downtown Franklin. You won’t find chain restaurants on these streets. One of my favorite eateries in Franklin is Puckett’s. I enjoyed the Deep Fried Brownie Sundae that was featured on the Food Network.

Nashville may be the Music City, but Franklin is where you’ll find the best live music. From country to rock to blues and more, you can find a little bit of everything in Franklin. If you’re a music lover, you’ll want to check out some of the local talent.

When we dined at Puckett’s, they had a local musician playing just a few feet from our table. Kimbros Pickin Parlor also has live entertainment, and free live street entertainment is often near the town square.

The hotels and accommodations are topnotch. There are several lovely B&Bs and hotels. When we visited, we stayed at the Harpeth Hotel by Hilton. They also had live music throughout the afternoon to enjoy.

You can learn more about Franklin by downloading one of their digital passport self-guided tours. There are several for the town and Williamson County. All are free and cover history, murals, coffee, and more. If you complete all the visits for a passport or trail, you earn a prize from the visitor’s center. The digital passport for Main Street covers 0.7 miles and is an easy walk with 33 stops.

Franklin, Tennessee, offers travelers a unique combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape or an exciting day trip with family and friends, it’s all here waiting for you in this lovely town! One visit to Franklin, Tennessee, and you’ll fall in love and find yourself wanting to come back again and again.

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It’s said that laughter is the best medicine, but laughter combined with an incredible meal from the kitchens of The Greenbrier is even better.