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Places to Go in Franklin, Tennessee

Published on December 6, 2025
Reading time: 6 min read

Places to Go in Franklin, Tennessee

Franklin preserves Civil War history and small-town charm just south of Nashville, combining historic sites with modern amenities. The town's walkable downtown features boutiques, restaurants, and preserved architecture creating an inviting atmosphere.

From Carnton Plantation to historic downtown, the Lotz House to scenic parks, Franklin offers Southern heritage with family-friendly attractions near Nashville.

Carnton Plantation

Carnton Plantation served as a field hospital during the Battle of Franklin, preserving Civil War history through the restored mansion and Confederate cemetery. The plantation house maintains period furnishings and bloodstains from surgical operations, while guided tours explain the battle's impact on the McGavock family. The cemetery contains nearly 1,500 Confederate soldiers, and the grounds provide peaceful reflection spaces. Carnton's authentic history, preserved architecture, and educational programs make it essential for reunion groups interested in Civil War heritage and Tennessee history with meaningful historical experiences.

Historic Plantation Civil War Museum
Address: 1345 Eastern Flank Cir, Franklin, TN 37064
Phone: (615) 794-0903
Website: boft.org/carnton
Historic Downtown Franklin

Historic Downtown Franklin features preserved 19th-century buildings housing boutiques, restaurants, and galleries creating a charming shopping and dining district. The town square's courthouse anchors the district, while Main Street's shops offer antiques, clothing, and local crafts. Restaurants serve Southern cuisine and contemporary fare, and the walkable streets encourage exploration. Downtown Franklin's authentic architecture, diverse shopping, and dining variety make it perfect for reunion groups seeking small-town charm with quality retail and culinary experiences near Nashville.

Historic Downtown Shopping Dining
Address: Main Street, Franklin, TN 37064
Phone: (615) 591-8500
Website: visitfranklin.com
Lotz House Museum

The Lotz House Museum preserves a Civil War battle site where fighting occurred inside the home, featuring bullet holes and period furnishings. The house tour explains the Lotz family's experience during the Battle of Franklin, while the museum displays Civil War artifacts and weapons. The home's authentic battle damage provides tangible history, and the guides share personal stories from the battle. The Lotz House's unique battle site preservation, family perspective, and downtown location make it ideal for reunion groups seeking intimate Civil War history with personal narratives.

Historic Home Civil War Battle Site
Address: 1111 Columbia Ave, Franklin, TN 37064
Phone: (615) 790-7190
Website: lotzhouse.com
Harlinsdale Farm

Harlinsdale Farm preserves Tennessee Walking Horse heritage on 200 acres with historic barns, trails, and open spaces providing outdoor recreation. The farm's history as a premier horse breeding facility adds cultural significance, while the preserved barns showcase agricultural architecture. Walking trails explore the property, and the open fields accommodate picnics and gatherings. Harlinsdale Farm's combination of equestrian history, natural beauty, and free public access makes it perfect for reunion groups seeking outdoor spaces with Tennessee agricultural heritage near Franklin's downtown attractions.

Historic Farm Walking Trails Free
Address: 239 Franklin Rd, Franklin, TN 37064
Phone: (615) 794-2103
Website: franklin-gov.com
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Disclaimer: AmazingReunion - plan your amazing family reunion, is not affiliated with the attractions mentioned above, this does not constitute a partnership in any shape or form. Images and text doesn't necessarily depict the said company's primary focus or agenda. This is a summary of what we think are fantastic places to visit during your family reunion in the said location. Ticket prices, address, times of operation, and all other information might not be accurate as at the time of reading this. Please use the websites listed above as the 'source of truth' before planning your visit and including this in your family reunion plans.

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