Visitors flock to Franklin for its historic streets, upscale shopping, and award-winning dining—but locals know there’s lots more magic to be found just beyond Franklin’s charming downtown streets. Rolling green hills, wide open pastures, and winding backroads make Williamson County one of the most beautiful places in Tennessee to explore by car. Whether you have an hour or a full day to spare, these scenic drives promise wide horizons, hidden gems, and views that will stay with you long after the engine cools.
1. Franklin to Thompson’s Station
Head out onto Highway 31 South and within minutes, the city fades away behind you. In its place, you’ll find sprawling farmland, lush pastures, and a verdant landscape that’s inspired generations of country music. End your drive with a walk at Preservation Park, where a Sound of Music-style hill offers sweeping, panoramic views of the countryside. If you’re feeling peckish, pop into nearby Spring Hill for barbecue at Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint or a decadent brunch at Brunch Collective.
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2. Natchez Trace Parkway
Few scenic byways in America rival the Natchez Trace Parkway. This federally protected, 444-mile road runs from Nashville to Natchez, Mississippi, and the stretch near Franklin is pure magic. Hop on from Highway 96 to cross the iconic double-arch bridge, then stop at Timberland Park for a hike. Drive a little farther, and you’ll find stopoffs that include waterfalls, tobacco barns, and the historic Gordon House—all reminders that the Parkway is as much a destination as it is a road. Hungry? Head to nearby Fairview for a delicious lunch or dinner at local hotspot, The Thompsons Kitchen.
Note: Drive slow, enjoy the ride, and watch for cyclists. Park rangers often ticket speeders here, even if they’re driving just a few miles over the limit. (Don’t ask me how I know!)
3. Old Natchez Trace Road
Locals swear by this four-mile stretch, especially at sunset. Old Natchez Trace hugs the Harpeth River and traces the route once traveled by Mississippian Native Americans. Along the way you’ll see historic homes, stone walls dating back to the mid-1800s, and a marker for Old Town, a once-thriving Native American settlement. It’s history and natural beauty, entwined. Continue your insider adventure with a meal at Barbara’s Home Cooking in the nearby Grassland community. Their poppyseed chicken casserole is a must!
4. Route 31A
For small-town charm mixed with countryside views, Route 31A is your drive. It leads you straight to Nolensville, a can’t-miss stop for boutique shopping and Southern-inspired dining. Continue along the 31A Trail for a picnic at Arrington Vineyards, a pint at Mill Creek Brewing Company, or fresh cider from Morning Glory Orchard. It’s a drive that blends Tennessee flavors with Tennessee views.
5. College Grove
Locals know College Grove is home to some of the best scenic drives in Middle Tennessee. Take Lewisburg Pike from Franklin to Bethesda Road in Thompson’s Station. From there, it’s a six-mile drive to Pulltight Hill Road in College Grove, which offers yet another stunning overlook of Williamson County’s lush green hills. Continue on to Cross Keys Road and Flat Creek Road for more unforgettable pastoral views. Afterward, drive to nearby Eagleville for delicious sandwiches at Grindstone Cowboy, or head back to Thompson’s Station for a meal at historic Circa Grill, housed in an old general store.
6. Big East Fork Road
Known mostly by word-of-mouth, Big East Fork Road meanders past grazing cattle, creeks, a covered bridge, and farmhouses that look like they’ve been plucked from postcards. You’ll also pass intriguing landmarks with names like Graveyard Hollow and Tobacco Patch Hollow. The road is narrow and popular with cyclists, so take it slow. Continue under the Natchez Trace Parkway onto Stillhouse Hollow Road, and you’ll eventually end up at Highway 46.
Don’t forget your camera—this drive practically begs for photos.
7. Southall Road to Leiper’s Fork
For one of the prettiest drives around, hop on Southall Road in Franklin and roll straight into the storybook village of Leiper’s Fork. Once there, catch live music at Fox & Locke, browse the antique shops and art galleries dotting the village’s main drag, savor a big Southern breakfast at Country Boy, or sip your way through a whiskey tasting at Leiper’s Fork Distillery—all include restful countryside views as an unforgettable backdrop.
8. Lynnwood Way Lookout
Just a short drive from downtown Franklin, wind your way on South Berrys Chapel Road to Lynnwood Way Lookout at 4462 Lynnwood Way. This hidden gem offers sweeping views of Lynwood Gap, a breathtaking spot that feels worlds away, yet is only minutes from the shops and restaurants of Cool Springs.
Whether you’re here for a quick visit or you’ve lived in Franklin for decades, these drives remind us why Williamson County is considered to be one of the most beautiful spots in Tennessee. Fill your tank, grab your favorite playlist, and see where the road takes you.
