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Downtown Franklin: Explore the City’s Great American Main Street
Location: Historic Downtown Franklin
Consider downtown Franklin’s main thoroughfare a must-see attraction. It has been designated a Great American Main Street and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and when you see all Franklin’s Main Street has to offer, you’ll understand its appeal.
Things to Do in Downtown Franklin
Lined with trendy boutiques, home goods stores, art galleries, and restaurants, all housed in charming historic buildings dating back as far as 1799, Main Street is made for wandering. Stop by White’s Mercantile for curated Southern goods, explore local artistry at Gallery 202, or catch live music and great food at Gray’s on Main. Whether or not you’re staying at The Harpeth Hotel, dinner and drinks at its in-house restaurant, 1799 Kitchen & Bar Room, is always a good idea. Grab dessert at Triple Crown Bakery.
Explore Main Street With a Tour
Be sure and grab a self-guided tour booklet from the Visitor Center (located just off Main Street on 4th Avenue) to learn more about the stories behind some of these beautiful buildings, or download the Great American Main Street Digital Passport and a self-guided walking tour will be delivered instantly to your phone via text and email. Complete the tour to receive a pin at the downtown Franklin Visitor Center!
Want to dive deeper? Join a Franklin on Foot guided walking tour for captivating tales of Civil War history, ghosts, and local legends. Franklin Walking Tours also offers an array of ways to learn about downtown. Or hop aboard the Franklin Hop Trolley Tour for a breezy ride through downtown with plenty of stories (and photo ops) along the way.
Must Try Restaurants in Historic Downtown Franklin
Main Street has plenty to catch your eye, not to mention your appetite! Grab Southern staples with a twist at 55 South, or settle in for upscale fare at Red Pony Restaurant. Craving comfort food? Try the famous chicken salad at Merridee’s Breadbasket or wood-fired pizza from Culaccino—all within steps of each other.
Bars, Breweries, and Distilleries
Raise a glass in downtown Franklin, where cozy spots like Stable Reserve offer a taste of Franklin’s locally made spirits. Head to Gray’s on Main for craft cocktails and live music, or sneak into Amendment XVIII, a hidden speakeasy with serious style.
Nearby Places to Stay in Downtown Franklin
Stay in the center of it all at The Harpeth Hotel, a boutique property just steps from Main Street with modern Southern charm. A short drive opens up more choices, including the stylish Hilton Franklin Cool Springs and cozy Drury Plaza Hotel—perfect for those who want quick access to downtown with extra amenities.
Address
400 Main Street
Franklin, TN 37064
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