Love is in the air in Franklin, Tennessee, voted one of the “Most Romantic Towns” by Travel + Leisure! With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, why not whisk your sweetie away to Franklin for a long weekend filled with revelry and romance?
From whiskey-sipping to spa days, we’ve compiled 12 date ideas for you and your honey. Or you and your dog. Or you and your mom. Whoever you want to bring along – we don’t care!
Plan a Night on the Town
There’s no shortage of restaurants ready to serve up a memorable date night. Dress to impress and head to one of Franklin’s finest – start with cocktails at Gray’s on Main, head to dinner at Cork & Cow, and finish with a nightcap at JJ’s Wine Bar. Round out the evening with a luxury stay at the Harpeth Hotel.
Enjoy Fresh Finds and Local Wine
Bring date night into the light! Start a Saturday at the Franklin Farmers Market at the Factory at Franklin, grab all your favorite local goodies, and pack a picnic to enjoy at Arrington Vineyards. Book a wine tasting in the newly renovated tasting cabin or grab a bottle to share, backdropped by live music and a stunning sunset.
Get Boozy with Your Babe
Call a cab and start the party! Whiskey lovers can book a tour and a tasting at Franklin’s two local whiskey makers, Company Distilling and Leiper’s Fork Distillery. Or, if craft beer is more your speed, head out to Curio Brewing Company for a local brew.
Go Back in Time Together
Strolling through Franklin has the ability to transport you back in time on its own, but for an expanded look at the city’s history, visit Carnton, Carter House, and Lotz House, each telling the story of the Battle of Franklin during the Civil War. As you stroll, be sure to learn about Franklin’s Fuller Story at the markers placed around town.
Visit the Home of First Kisses
Keep the time travel going with a movie at the iconic Franklin Theatre, home to many a first kiss since its opening in the 1930s. Whether visiting for a first date, an anniversary or just because, here, you can watch your love story unfold alongside the one on the silver screen here.
Indulge in some R&R
Treat both your partner and yourself to a luxurious getaway at Southall Farm & Inn between Franklin and Leiper’s Fork. With gorgeous suites, farm-to-table dining, an onsite spa, and much more, a homestead getaway nestled in Tennessee’s rolling hills is sure to make for an adventure both memorable and romantic.
Say I Love You with a Latte
Coffee lovers, cozy up together at one of Williamson County’s local coffee shops for a hot cup of specialty coffee and conversation. Visit Franklin’s Coffee House on Second and Bridge, Grassland’s The Good Cup, or Nolensville’s Mama’s Java for a caffeine boost.
Snack on Sweets with Your Sweet
Splurge with something as sweet as your honey from one of Franklin’s many dessert shops. Head to Kilwins for fudge or Sweethaven for ice cream, or opt for a boozy dessert from 1799 Kitchen & Cocktails.
Have a Brew and some BBQ
If you haven’t had a date night in historical Nolensville, you’re missing out! Grab a pint at Mill Creek Brewing Co, and then sample some of Pat Martin’s famous BBQ at Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint.
Climb to New Heights
Feeling adventurous? Try an indoor rock climbing experience at The Crag, where you can take turns belaying and cheering each other on. On a nice day, take the antics outdoors (and airborne) with a trip to SOAR Adventure Tower.
Get a strike!
Get the ball rolling on your relationship (see what I did there) at Kings Dining & Entertainment. Enjoy a drink in their draft room, then hit the lanes for some friendly competition. I feel it necessary to warn you – Friday is karaoke night.
Take a Class
The couple that learns together stays together. Isn’t that how it goes? Sharpen your skills (and your best cooking knife) with a class at Brentwood’s Sur la Table, with options ranging from date night surf & turf to globally-inspired dishes.
What’s your favorite date night activity in Franklin?
