When the sun is shining, it makes for the perfect time to get outside and enjoy it. Whether taking in the great weather on a balcony with a cocktail in hand or lounging in the park there is no wrong way to enjoy the beautiful days in Franklin, Tennesse. Here are five spots to get outside around Franklin that will be the best decision you make all day.
Head to the Park Harlinsdale Farm
More than your average park, at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm you’ll find 200 acres of pure bliss that were formerly the home of Midnight Sun, one of the most legendary Tennessee Walking Horses around. These days the park is a haven for relaxation where the open fields are perfect for blankets, picnics, and reading a book. Runners and walkers will find a soft 5K track that takes you through rolling hills and scenic views, while if kicking back with a rod and reel in hand is more your style there is a three-acre fishing pond too.
A former farm wouldn’t be complete without animals, so bring your dogs along to enjoy the dog park, which not far from Tractor Supply Arena. On the right night, you’ll also see horseshoes in the arena and even polo matches. As if the park itself wasn’t enough, on a late September weekend each year, The Park at Harlinsdale Farm also hosts Pilgrimage Music and Cultural Festival and some of the biggest names in the world of music.
Download our free visitor guide to plan your ultimate adventure in Franklin, Tennessee
Float the Harpeth River
Nothing beats the freedom of floating down the river without a care in the world. With endless places for fishing, swimming, and camping, grab your friends for a group trip or find your inner peace on a solo ride, either way, the Harpeth River will treat you to a refreshing trip through some of Franklin’s best views.
No canoe of your own? No worries, the good folks at Paddle Dog Adventures have you covered, and they’ll even drop you off and pick you up at the end. Still not convinced? Check out the video above, and we’ll see you on the river!
Spend a day at Arrington Vineyards
Friends, fine wine, and great music… you just can’t beat it. That is exactly what you’ll find at Arrington Vineyards. Pack a picnic basket and find a shady spot under a tree where you can sip away the afternoon overlooking a scenic hillside of vineyards. Tastings are also available [and highly recommended] in the tasting room, plus if you head out on the weekend you can dance the night away at their weekly Music in the Vines and Bluegrass in the Barn. If you really want to take it all in, or celebrate a special occasion, sit for a wine pairing and tasting of seasonal favorites with Arrington’s Premiere Expereince too.
Hit the open road on the Natchez Trace
Roll the windows down and hit the open road on the Natchez Trace Parkway. Check out the famed double arch bridge where the Natchez Trace Parkway crosses over Hwy 96, and leave time to walk out on the 145-foot bridge for a scenic view like none other.
Then head down the historic and scenic two-lane highway a few miles for a hike on the original Natchez Trace path. At the Garrison Creek Trailhead, you’ll find an easy two-mile path full of scenery but also access to the Old Trace, which is a four-mile loop of the trail just as it was originally. This loop is a bit more challenging as it is more rustic and you’ll have a navigate a few shallow creeks, but boy is it worth the extra work when you get to look out over the valley below along the way. Beware though, if you make this hike at sunset you may never want to leave.
Take in a ballgame, vintage style, at Carnton
Take me out to the ballgame, but hold the peanuts and Cracker Jacks… let’s do this really old-school style, like 1860’s style! That’s right, catch a game where there are no gloves and the players are dressed [and act] just like they did in the 1860s.
Right there on the lawn at Carnton players from the Tennessee Association of Vintage Base Ball will set up a game, and all you have to do is bring your favorite blanket or lawn chair and enjoy. During the game, players will interact with the crowd and explain the original rules, and if you’re are feeling feisty, they’ll even have full conversations with you in character.