These days, it’s hard to find a truly underrated spot in Franklin, Tennessee. Franklin, along with its surrounding communities, has become genuinely popular, and that’s a good thing for our town and the business owners who make it what it is. I love visiting all the well-known spots we have; they’re popular for a reason. But I also love wandering off the beaten path to explore the local favorites that make this area so special. Working at Visit Franklin, I’ve had the honor of visiting so many of these businesses myself, and I can vouch for every one of them. If you’re ready to explore some places outside of what’s buzzing on social media, don’t hesitate.
Franklin
Bishop’s Meat & 3
If you’re craving a classic Southern plate, Bishop’s is a place that reminds you why meat-and-threes have stuck around. The family-owned restaurant serves Southern delicacies cafeteria-style. What many people don’t know is that Bishop’s hot chicken actually inspired the owners to create Hattie B’s, the incredibly famous hot chicken chain. But Bishop’s is where it all started, in a no-frills strip mall in Franklin, and it’s still there!
Coleman Valley Alpaca Farm
If you are in need of some animal therapy, spend an afternoon getting acquainted with some of Franklin’s fluffiest residents at Coleman Valley. Visitors can cuddle and feed the alpacas while learning about them from the farm’s owner.
Reed’s Produce & Garden Center
For a taste of Franklin’s agricultural side, you have to make a stop at Reed’s. Just a short walk or quick drive from the heart of downtown Franklin, this place is a local gem. Bring home the best in-season tomatoes or a fresh loaf of sourdough; you won’t regret it.
Brentwood
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The Brentwood Market
Brentwood is known for its elegant neighborhoods and fine dining establishments. But locals will tell you the best-kept secret is The Brentwood Market. Inside its unassuming building, you’ll find an incredible deli that feels a little like stepping into an old-fashioned general store. Stop in for breakfast or lunch, or grab a home-style meal to take with you for an easy dinner later.
Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary
Set in the beautiful hills of Brentwood, Owl’s Hill is a 300-acre wildlife sanctuary offering day passes and guided hikes that change with the seasons. I did the guided lantern hike at night, and it was such a great experience. Be sure to check their website ahead of your visit to reserve your pass.
Fairview
Buried Treasures
Bring your curiosity to Buried Treasures, a family-owned antique shop open since 1992 and filled with vintage finds, vinyl records, collectibles, and home décor. You never quite know what you’ll find, which is what makes it fun.
Fairview Fresh Deli Donuts
Mr. Kit Tang and his family have been crafting donuts for more than 20 years. Their secret family dough recipe creates exceptionally light and fluffy donuts, without the greasy feel or heavy preservatives. If you find yourself in Fairview, you’ll have to make a stop here and grab a donut. You can’t go wrong with any flavor.
Nolensville
Nolensville Feed Mill Amish Country Market
The Feed Mill is one of those places where you stop for lunch and leave with a bag full of things you didn’t know you needed. Browse Amish-made breads, meats, and jams, then stay for a sandwich from the deli. It’s a great spot to bring kids, too. There’s a backyard where they can run off energy and wade in Mill Creek while you relax at a picnic table.
Nolensville Toy Shop
Old-fashioned toy shops are a rarity these days. Nolensville Toy Shop is a mom-and-pop store housed in an old Victorian house, filled with quality toys, puzzles, and games for all ages. Need a birthday or holiday gift? They’ll wrap it for you, too.
Spring Hill
Early’s Honey Stand
Early’s has been a Williamson County institution since 1925, when it started as a roadside stand selling honey, produce, and smoked meats. Today, the brick-and-mortar store carries jams, jellies, country ham, bacon, pickled goods, and plenty of other Southern favorites.
Hidden Seed Plant Co.
Plant people, this one’s for you! Hidden Seed stocks rare and easy-care houseplants, plus gifts, pottery and workshops. For an extra sweet treat, grab shaved ice from the Beach Co. Chill camper, parked outside the shop seasonally.
Old Stone Creamery
Old Stone Creamery started as a Jersey dairy farm in 1872, and it’s stayed with the same family ever since, growing to include beef alongside the dairy. They offer large group private farm tours by reservation, plus a cute farm store open to the public with milk, cheese, eggs, beef, and other farm-to-table goodies.
Thompson’s Station
1819 Coffee at Homestead Manor
There’s something particularly cool about having a coffee in a place with this much history. 1819 Coffee is set inside Homestead Manor, built the same year as its name, and serves classic coffee drinks plus specialty lattes like the Rodrick—rich espresso with hints of bourbon, brown sugar, and sea salt.
Circa Grill
More people need to know about Circa. Family-owned, it’s a great reminder that some of the best meals are found just beyond the usual restaurant circuit, in tiny towns. Set inside a former general store in historic Thompson’s Station, it serves sophisticated Southern cuisine with a creative twist, overlooking the town’s iconic red caboose. Headed to a concert at FirstBank Amphitheater? Book a resy at Circa and thank me later.
Leiper’s Fork
The Davis General
Although the village of Leiper’s Fork isn’t so hidden anymore, not everyone knows about The Davis General. Before you leave town, order something from the counter and settle in at one of the outdoor tables. It’s an old-school country store with simple food, iconic fried pies, and a scenic drive to get there.
Semler Cattle Co.
A newer addition to the village, Semler Cattle Co. puts the area’s agricultural roots right on the table with Wagyu beef raised on the farm. But it isn’t that simple: in true Leiper’s Fork quirky fashion, they’ve also got zebras on site, a petting zoo with alpacas and goats, and a stocked farm store. Check their social media for hours and info on their “Semler Saturdays,” where they often cook lunch and bring live music and fun for the whole family.
The Tornado Room
Hidden below The Country Boy, Tornado Room is easy to miss, and that’s kind of the point. Look for the green light above the basement door: if it’s on, they’re open. Inside, it’s a small speakeasy with live music, great cocktails, and small bites. A true “if you know, you know” kind of joint.
Arrington
Peacock Hill Nature Park
If you’re looking for an uncrowded, well-maintained place to hike, Peacock Hill delivers. The 269-acre park features hiking trails, rolling hills, ponds, and some of the most beautiful overlooks in Williamson County, including one of the county’s tallest points of elevation.
