The 10 Best Hidden Gems Things to do in Franklin, Tennessee (TN)

The compelling story of the times, the family, and the fine antiques of the Civil War era. The Lotz House, which has been on the National Historic Register since 1976, is located in the heart of downtown historic Franklin, Tennessee, at “the epicenter” of the Battle of Franklin, which was a pivotal battle of the Civil War on November 30, 1864. The House was the most heavily damaged structure on the Franklin battlefield. Walk in to witness the damage from the cannon balls that crash through the house and numerous bloodstains on all the floors. Plus on this tour, your will learn about the family, the Master Wood Worker who built the home by himself, how the family survived and how the bloody battle affected them for the balance of their lives! Reservation are not required for Guided tours of the historic home. In addition, walking battlefield tours and an archeological tours are also available, but please call for reservations. Please join us as we step back into Civil War history.

Just minutes south of Nashville, Franklin is often cited as one of the most beautiful downtowns in the U.S. Site of "the most famous battle you've never heard of," according to National Geographic, Franklin's Civil War story will amaze and enlighten you on the most divisive time in American history. Our enthusiastic, knowledgeable guides will make your visit an unforgettable experience. Our tours include the Classic Franklin, Civil War in Franklin, Grave Matters in the Cemetery, and for fans of evening activities, the Haunted Franklin, Ghosts of the Battlefield at the Lotz House and Murder and Mayhem Tours. Our Southern Style food tours allow visitors to savor the flavors of the South and learn history at the same time. Most tours are available Monday through Saturday by advance reservation; some tours have minimums. Just call and see how flexible and accommodating we can be.

Middle Tennessee Hot Air Adventures is a family business nestled in the quiet town of Franklin, TN just south of Nashville. We offer ballooning services in Nashville and Franklin Tennessee as well as all surrounding areas. We pride ourselves in ballooning over less developed areas, lofting over hollows and hidden lakes, offering breath taking views of wildlife and the rolling hills of Middle Tennessee. Join us on your own Hot Air Adventure!!

The Copper Fox gallery represents over 90 fine craft artisans from 12 states, predominantly TN. Slow down, look around and discover a remarkable collection of handmade art. Whether you’re an art collector, a connoisseur or an enthusiast, you’ll leave feeling lighter and brighter, inspired by what we have in store!

Extreme Escape Games: Taking Escape Rooms to the next level in the Nashville TN market. We provide the WOW FACTOR that brings excitement, personality, & positivity as soon as you hit the front door! Detailed character interaction with extensive game break down makes this "extremely" fun for friends, family, and team building events in Franklin TN!

Leiper's Fork Distillery is a small batch artisan distillery featuring unaged spirits, Leipers's Fork's first bourbon since prohibition and premium spirits. It is our aim to recapture the lost art of small batch spirit production, using mainly local ingredients, pouring our heart and soul into every drop from grain to glass.

Located just a straight shot south from downtown Nashville, quaint downtown Franklin is the perfect sleepy Southern town. Visitors can easily spend a day browsing antique shops and boutiques and dining at one of its many ecelctic restaurants. Downtown Franklin offers an eclectic mix of antique shops, gift and book stores, art galleries and clothing boutiques. Franklin hosts several festivals each year.

Carnton was built around 1826 by Randal McGavock, an early settler in Middle Tennessee. By the time of the Civil War, Carnton was home to John and Carrie McGavock and it was a large working farm. Over forty enslaved people lived and worked at Carnton in the years leading up to the Civil War. On November 30, 1864, the site was witness to the Battle of Franklin. Carnton became the largest field hospital in the area following the terrible battle, and in 1866 the McGavock Confederate Cemetery was established nearby. Today the cemetery holds the remains of nearly 1,500 Southern soldiers. The family and enslaved cemeteries are also on site. Sixty minutes Classic house tours are offered as well as Extended, Slavery, Battlefield, and Behind the Scenes tours.