I never like to wish a season away. I love how each time of year brings its own produce, weather, and holidays, and I prefer to savor the moment that it lives in. Although I would be remiss not to say that I feel a strong pull toward fall. Especially when August in Tennessee rolls around, it’s 100 degrees, and all I can think about is sipping a hot pumpkin spice latte with a chill in the air (yes, I am basic and proud).
One of the most magical places to enjoy the season of autumn is the village of Leiper’s Fork, just 20 minutes outside of Franklin, Tennessee. It’s filled with art galleries, Southern comfort food, unique antique stores, and boutiques. In the fall, folks gather around fire pits and front porch swings scattered throughout the village and make s’mores between shopping trips. I have yet to find anything like it. I took my boyfriend’s family out there recently, and I have to quote his dad: “It’s better than it should be.” What I think he means by that is that it will exceed your expectations of a small Tennessee town in the best way. If you have never visited, or you’re visiting for the first time in the fall, here is a guide for the best way to enjoy your visit.
Spend a Weekend in a Historic Cottage
Many people make day trips out to Leiper’s Fork, but you will quickly find that you’ll be happy spending more time there, and might I even suggest bunking there as well? The village has a variety of Airbnb options with historic cottages to choose from. Popular stays include Sweeney Cottage, a 1890s farmhouse renovated and decorated by the daughter of country music legend Hank Williams Jr., Holly Williams. Its front porch swing, original 1892 entry doors, and backyard fire pit add to the cozy atmosphere. The Brigadoon Cottage is a whimsical post-Civil War cottage featuring unique art sprinkled throughout, a clawfoot tub, and a spacious deck. Both cottages are within easy walking distance of Leiper’s Fork’s shops and restaurants.
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Feast on a Warm Southern Breakfast
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and my personal favorite. If you are looking for a classic Southern breakfast experience, start your day at The Country Boy restaurant. The quintessentially Southern menu item is their Backyard Bennie, which includes two slices of fried green tomatoes topped with a poached egg and thick-sliced country ham, drizzled with hollandaise sauce. They also have all the staples, like biscuits and gravy, grits, and buttermilk pancakes.
If you are looking for more of a grab-and-go situation, head to Davis General Store to fill up on gas and grab the best sausage, egg, and cheese biscuit you’ll ever have. Their gooey cinnamon rolls hit differently in the fall as well. If you are looking for a quick espresso fix, which I usually am each morning, head to Steel Pony for a great latte, cappuccino, or Americano. In the fall, they serve all the seasonal flavors I always indulge in.
Take in the Fall Foliage
Travel the route of the “Old Natchez Trace,” a 444-mile road through three states, following one of the most significant travel routes of the Old Southwest. It winds straight through Leiper’s Fork, and fall is the best time to take in the natural beauty of the route. From prehistoric American Indian mounds to 19th-century historic stands, drive, bike, or hike through 10,000 years of history.
Whether you hop on it for 15 minutes or five hours, you’ll be amazed by the display of fall colors. In fact, as far as locals are concerned, this parkway is easily the most popular fall color drive in Middle Tennessee. If hiking, I recommend the Garrison Creek Loop Trail, which covers 1.3 miles at Milepost 427.6, just outside of Leiper’s Fork.
Want to make your experience even more memorable? Rent electric bikes from Pedego in downtown Franklin and take a ride down the Natchez Trace Parkway. You can opt to ride on your own or book a three-hour guided tour on either the Natchez Trace or Leiper’s Fork back roads.
Spend the Day Shopping
Even if you aren’t a “shopper,” everyone in the crowd will enjoy roaming inside each storefront on the main drag in Leiper’s Fork. Every shop is within walking distance of the others, and your surroundings will be especially beautiful on a lovely fall weekend. I suggest stopping in every boutique and gallery because there’s not a bad one in the bunch.
Browse through stunning paintings and sculptures at Leiper’s Creek Gallery, while The Copper Fox Gallery includes an array of pottery, jewelry, dishes, and more. David Arms Gallery is a stunning store with a masculine feel and beautiful art and gifting items. Tap into your funky side by browsing the vintage vault at Props Antiques, or check out eclectic cowgirl clothing and accessories at Moo Country. Discover unparalleled home decor and gifts at Patina and Dwell & Den.
Wine Taste in the Creek
Crown Winery is a tasting room in the heart of the village, offering private tastings by reservation. Order a wine flight and enjoy it on the property overlooking Leiper’s Creek, with rotating acoustic musicians on the weekends. There’s a walk-up window if you just want a glass or bottle to go. And Middle Tennessee doesn’t cool off enough in the fall to keep you from dipping your toes in the creek.
Bring your own picnic, grab a glass of wine, and post up by the creek. There’s nothing better than an afternoon with a bottle open and no plans.
Head to Fox & Locke for a Show
Listening to live music at Fox & Locke is an ideal way to spend an autumn evening in Leiper’s Fork. The popular restaurant has stayed true to its OG small-town grocery store roots, offering barbecue, cold beer, and great local music Wednesdays through Sundays. With so many musicians living in the area, you never know who might show up for their iconic Thursday Open Mic nights. Carrie Underwood and Wynonna Judd have both been surprise guests!
Be sure to purchase tickets for music nights well in advance; Fox & Locke is a true hot spot, and seats often sell out fast.
Savor Small-Batch Tennessee Whiskey
Autumn and whiskey make a wonderful duo, so I suggest heading out to Leiper’s Fork Distillery to enjoy both. Here, you can tour the stillhouse and enjoy a tasting afterward.
Following Tennessee’s rich tradition of whiskey distilling, Leiper’s Fork Distillery has brought back the art of small-batch whiskey production using local ingredients and limestone-filtered water. The results are distinctive, and you’ll just have to taste for yourself to truly understand.
They regularly have live acoustic music on the weekends, and their back porch is a vibe, complete with fire pits and Adirondack chairs.
