Location: Franklin
Top Things to do in Franklin
Countries
Top 6 Hidden Gems Things to do 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. Old Cardinal Gem Mine
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 116 reviews
We are a little rustic gem mine in Franklin NC , We welcome you to our gem mine. Thanks Darcel Charles, Morgan & Isaiah
Reviewed By epsharon - Muskego, United States
This place is off the beaten path but don’t let that deter you. Our kids had a blast and Morgan really went above and beyond to make the experience memorable. You have the choice of mining for gems or fossils and different size buckets at different price points. You can take your time and Morgan was able to help us identify our finds and took the time to separate the different gems into zip lock bags and label them for you. You won’t find that level of service from those tourist trap mines. It is family owned and operated. They even offer a service (done by owner) to cut the gem of choice and convert into a jewelry piece which they will mail to you or you can pick up later in week if staying in area. This was definitely a highlight so far of our vacation and that is after staying in the Gatlinburg area and doing a bunch of fun stuff already.
3. Franklin Gem and Mineral Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 161 reviews
Housed in the Historic 1850 Macon County Jail, the museum has approximately 6000 items on display in 8 separate rooms on two floors. The displays cover the history of mining in Western North Carolina, fossils, Indian artifacts, fluorescent minerals and gems and specimens from all 50 States of the USA and various countries of the world.
Reviewed By ooooopplll
Interesting museum in antique Jail Good variety of minerals and fossils Nice gift shop and reasonable prices
4. Rose Creek Mine
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 254 reviews
Reviewed By Mlatherton - Spencer, United States
This gem mine offers you many options. You can fill your bucket with dirt from the mine or purchase salted buckets. We tried both and were happy with the experience. Their sluice table overlooked a marsh filled with beautiful plants, dragonflies and an abundance of singing birds enjoying the bird feeders. Soooo very peaceful! The owners were friendly, knowledgeable and welcoming.
5. 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.
6. 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!
