With the redbuds in bloom, the temperatures remaining mild, and wildflowers growing in profusion everywhere you look, spring is one of Tennessee’s most gorgeous seasons – and there’s no more peaceful place to enjoy it than the quaint, historic village of Leiper’s Fork, a beautiful 15-minute drive from downtown Franklin. Here are some of our favorite reasons to visit Leiper’s Fork in the spring.
Shop ’til you drop.
Locals and out-of-town visitors alike know Leiper’s Fork makes for a great day of shopping – and spring is one of the best times of year to make the trip. Park on the main drag, and you can easily stroll to all of Leiper’s Fork’s finely curated shops and galleries, which include men’s and women’s clothing and accessories, home goods, antiques, gifts, gourmet foods and wine, and art from local and regional artists. There’s truly something for everyone here, no matter your age or interest!
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Dine outdoors.
In my opinion, both of Leiper’s Fork’s restaurants are best enjoyed outdoors, preferably at sunset – and spring is a perfect time to savor this unique culinary experience. Fox & Locke‘s outdoor patio is a popular place in spring to relax with friends and knock back a few beers and burgers while listening to live music. Down the street, 1892 offers romantic outdoor seating on the porch and in the backyard of the historic home where this delicious farm-to-table restaurant is located.
Rent bikes from Pedego in Franklin and ride to Leiper’s Fork for the day.
One of the best parts of a trip to Leiper’s Fork is the scenic drive to get there – Why not make the journey on electric-assisted bicycles? At Pedego in downtown Franklin, you can rent bikes that boost your ride with electric power only when you need it, allowing you to get some exercise while riding much farther than you’d ordinarily be able to manage.
Book a guided Pedego tour to Leiper’s Fork and back again (it’s their most popular tour!) or rent bikes, make the trip on your own, and spend a few hours shopping and having lunch – The choice is yours!
Learn how small-batch whiskey is made at Leiper’s Fork Distillery.
Spring’s just the season for a tour of Leiper’s Fork Distillery, where the lost art of small-batch whiskey production has made a triumphant return to Williamson County. Utilizing local ingredients and limestone-filtered water, the distillery’s premium spirits offer a true taste of the region, and now you can book a tour of the facilities and learn how their spirits are made. Afterward, enjoy a self-guided tasting of the distillery’s three core products.
While you’re there, don’t forget to collect your Leiper’s Fork Distillery stamp on your Tennessee Whiskey Trail and Masters & Maker’s Trail passports. Visit the other stops on the Masters & Makers Trail, check in on your digital passport, and take the passport to the Visitor Center in downtown Franklin for a commemorative gift!
Enjoy High Tea at GratiDude Ranch.
Just 10 miles from Leiper’s Fork, you’ll find the GratiDude Ranch, six acres of idyllic Williamson County property with two guest lodging options and special events and farm-to-table dinners held here throughout the year.
This spring, head out to the ranch on April first for an Easter Bunny High Tea. Enjoy a petting zoo, arts and crafts, an egg hunt, high tea, pony rides, photos, and more at this special event which benefits S.A.F.E., a nonprofit organization serving foster youth and foster families.
Wine and dine by the creek behind Wines in the Fork.
There’s never a wrong time for a wine tasting at Wines in the Fork in the heart of the village, but you might not have realized that the wine tasting room here also has a market offering a wide selection of gourmet foods, fresh organic produce, dairy products, pasture-raised meats, and more. Spring is a great time to pick up all the fixings for an outdoor lunch here, then head out back for a picnic beside the burbling Leiper’s Creek.
You’ll find another ideal location for an outdoor lunch across the street between The Copper Fox and David Arms Gallery, where Adirondack chairs line a hill overlooking a peaceful meadow.
