Location: Franklin
Top Things to do in Franklin
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The 10 Best Things to do Good for Couples in Franklin, North Carolina (NC)
Franklin is a town in Franklin Township, Macon County, North Carolina, United States, within the Nantahala National Forest. The population was 3,845 as of the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Macon County. Franklin is an official Appalachian Trail-friendly destination. The Franklin area is rich in gems and minerals and is known locally as the "Gem Capital of The World."
Restaurants in Franklin
1. Where Shadows Walk
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 60 reviews
Where Shadows Walk offers a wide variety of tours in the South. Our tours are the perfect blend of ghosts, mystery, lore and history. Please visit our website for a full listing of all tours available.
2. Pickens Nose
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 31 reviews
Reviewed By jdl50cc
The views from the end of this short hike are breathtaking. However, this hike, as short as it is, would more properly be classified as "Moderate," not "Easy." There is a relatively steep climb over uneven terrain with tricky footing, which disqualifies the "Easy" classification. Nonetheless, it is worth every step. Tip: Enter Nantahala National Forest from I-64 in the North, not from Otto in the South. The former is a little longer but the road is easily navigable and beautiful. The road from Otto is windy and bumpy, and has one or two spots where high clearance is recommended. We had a 4WD truck so it presented no problem for us, but we took the northern route out and it was much more pleasant.
3. Mason's Ruby & Sapphire Mine
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 407 reviews
Mason's Sapphire Mine is an all-natural, dig your own sapphire mine that has been in operation since 1942 in Franklin NC. We also offer enriched buckets so everyone can find something to love! Masons mine is a safe, fun, and unique experience to add to your family trip! We will open for the Season March 19th 2020
Reviewed By 38marcyp
Amazing place!! My boys have been wanting to gem mine for years and they really wanted to dig the dirt and sluce it. This is the place. We got to fill our buckets all day and look for gems. Our biggest haul was 1-3g sapphire and 1-6g sapphire which are currently being turned into necklaces. I highly recommend this place. We had a blast. Also staff was very helpful and friendly
4. Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 209 reviews
Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine is Macon County's ONLY 100% Unsalted Gem Mine, located in the heart of the beautiful Cowee Valley of North Carlolina's Smoky Mountains. NOTE: Cherokee Mine is currently CLOSED for the season, and will re-open on 01 May 2020.
Reviewed By bigc2207 - Miami, United States
We had a good time gem mining here. The staff is very knowledgeable and helpful, and they double-check your gravel to make sure you don't miss anything. We found several nice pieces for our collection, and one or two we might get cut. Overall it was a nice day out.
5. Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 172 reviews
Reviewed By szarekjohn - Franklin, United States
Beautiful theater, many excellent musical groups and a quaint hometown theatre group. Wife and I recently moved to this area and this Center was definitely one of the major selling points in our decision to purchase a home in the area. We enjoy the shows enough that we even joined as advanced members instead of buying a ticket or two as they come out. We’ve seen an outstanding comedian whose name escapes me. Saw Steven Curtis Chapman Christmas show, LeAnn Rimes and many others. We have tickets pending for the Newsboys & Mandisa and others we look forward to seeing. Definitely, highly recommend.
6. Wayah Bald Lookout Tower
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 293 reviews
Reviewed By CZiegler04 - Wingate, United States
We found ourselves visiting the Wayah Bald Lookout Tower quite by accident Sunday afternoon. We were searching for the Rufus Morgan Falls (which we NEVER found) and decided to take a slight detour. We drove and drove and drove some more, but the view was worth the drive. It was peaceful and so beautiful, and the abundant wildflowers in the area were buzzing with bees. The drive is actually less than five miles, and the gravel road is in excellent condition. The curving climb makes it seem much longer than it is, but don’t let that deter you. It’s free, and there’s hiking if you’re interested.
7. Rufus Morgan Falls
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 65 reviews
Reviewed By Lunarnole
Fun hike! It is a 1.6 mile loop trail total with 1 mile to the gorgeous waterfalls. Definitely not for children. This trail is more difficult than "moderate." We balanced ourselves on boulders through about 3-4 creeks/streams. There was a manmade footbridge for the deepest crossing. We also rock climbed some to get a good look at the impressive falls. Expect to travel on a one-way gravel road to get to the trailhead. Our small kia made it just fine. Enjoy!
8. Lazy Hiker Brewing Company
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 201 reviews
Reviewed By mirraFlorida - Fort Lauderdale, United States
We visited here a few times during a recent visit to North Carolina. The bartender was very friendly and gladly gave us samples of what we were interested in. They have a food truck in the parking lot.You can also bring your own food in. They have a wide range of types of beers and the staff is knowledgeable. On weekends they have music. They have great atmosphere.
9. Currahee Brewing Company
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 46 reviews
Welcome to Currahee Brewing Company! Enjoy your experience in our 2000 sq. ft. German biergarten style tasting room and outdoor riverfront patio. We focus on European-inspired ales and lagers, and have cans and growlers to go. Enjoy a beer flight and bite to eat from our food truck, Mountain Fresh Grocery's Catering Kitchen, open 7 days a week. Cheers!
Reviewed By jmpncsu - Raleigh, United States
Great Place! We visited several times while staying in Franklin. They are very dog friendly so it was a good place to come and hang out. Great beer and super friendly servers, we really enjoyed drinking here. There is a nice outdoor seating area along Little Tennessee River to watch the sunset. And the people are very friendly. Alex made several new friends, both human and canine! Definitely recommend this place if visiting Franklin.
10. Turning Stones Fly Fishing, LLC Day Tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 38 reviews
