Franklin

Franklin feels immediately welcoming. Set just south of Nashville, it offers the appeal of a small southern town with a surprising amount going on, making it a natural contrast to the more rural landscapes of eastern Tennessee. Its historic centre is compact and easy to explore, with brick-lined streets, restored buildings and a relaxed, lived-in atmosphere.

Much of life in Franklin revolves around its Main Street, where independent shops, galleries and cafés sit alongside music venues and restaurants. The food scene is a particular highlight, mixing modern southern cooking with casual neighbourhood spots and a growing number of local distilleries and breweries. Live music often spills out into the evenings, reflecting the town’s close ties to Tennessee’s wider music culture.

Beyond the centre, Franklin is surrounded by gently rolling countryside. Scenic walking routes, quiet country roads and nearby green spaces make it easy to mix town time with fresh air. Cycling is popular in the surrounding area, while parks and trails offer space for slower-paced walks between sightseeing and meals.

Franklin works well as a cultural pause on a journey through Tennessee. It’s a place to slow the pace slightly, enjoy good food and conversation, and experience a more refined, everyday side of Tennessee life before continuing on to the region’s larger cities and wilder landscapes.