Franklin may have been founded in 1799, but did you know that this historical hub almost became its own state in 1788? Although that didn’t pan out, Franklin is still home to a unique culture, with a balance of old-school sights and contemporary arts and cuisine. So, stop packing that suitcase for your next getaway and pack your itinerary full of these things to do on a staycation in Franklin instead!
Unforgettable history
• Dress in your vintage wear and spend an evening at Franklin Theatre, which opened as
a cinema in 1937.
• Get to know your hometown even better with a Trolley Tour through the city’s
historic sites. Drive by the Old, Old Jail, Franklin’s “Great American Main Street,”
and somber sites Carnton Plantation, where themed tours offer an informative and raw
perspective on slavery and Civil War battles.
• Learn about the Civil Rights Act of 1875 at the Fleming Center at Carnton, and gain
new knowledge of the long journey toward equal voting rights for all.
Breweries and juiceries
• Sample local craft brews at Mantra Artisan Ales—we can’t get enough of Japa, the
milk stout infused with chai tea. It’s like comfort in a pint. Need a little kick?
Order the Hot Yoga, a wit with cucumber and jalapeno. All the benefits of good sweat
without going to the gym.
• Order pie first at the Frothy Monkey. Then, build your own decadent omelet, or go
light with the roasted beets and a fresh salad.
• Be well at Juice Bar. Start the day with shots…of powerful juices, essential oils,
and spices. Line ‘em up!
Local shopping
• Franklin is great for antique shopping. Explore the centuries and hunt for treasures
at Arbor Antique Mall, where 30 antiques dealers have curated jewelry, art, home
goods, and more.
• Stay local, shop local at unique boutiques, like Finnley’s, and Baya Designs. Your
own neighbors are designers, artisans, and savvy shopkeepers. They say every time
you support a small business, a real person does a happy dance. Let’s make it
happen! Tourist destination you haven’t visited yet: Take a long weekend at the
beginning of any month and do a first Friday art walk scavenger hunt. How many of
the local pop-up galleries can you visit? How many artists’ signatures can you get?
What’s your favorite wine and nibbles offering? This is the kind of challenge you
can’t lose.
Source: Andrea Hinds-February 20, 2018
Williamson Source
Photo Credit: Via Yelp/Franklin Theater