Explore the Outdoors

Soak up the sun with an outdoor adventure in Franklin! Enjoy and explore the natural beauty of Tennessee with some of our favorite activities.

Farm Experiences

Outdoor adventures await at Southall Farm & Inn, Franklin’s latest all-in-one nature destination. Whether you prefer to venture out on your own or be led by a guide, Southall offers a full calendar of activities ranging from beekeeping lessons to an aerial ropes course among the trees.

Learn about sustainable farming practices in Southall’s apiary, orchard, or garden. Taste awardwinning honey straight from the hive and meet the beekeepers, or get a lay of the land with an orchard or field tour and tasting. You can even try your hand at gardening with a guided class!

Fuel your sense of adventure with Southall’s unique outdoor courses and activities. Head to Nick’s Outfitters on the shores of Lake Mishkin for kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and more. If you’re looking to try something new or expand your skills, reserve a lesson in fly fishing, axe throwing, or archery. For an unforgettable experience, take a guided mountain bike or hiking tour, then meet a bird of prey during a falconry expedition.

Click here for Southall’s full activity calendar and reserve your spot for the activity of your choice!

On the Water

The scenic Harpeth River flows straight through the heart of downtown Franklin, and you can find access points throughout the city where you can launch a canoe or kayak, go fishing, or take a swim. For the ultimate fly fishing experience, book a guided boat tour with Franklin Fly Fishing Co. If kayaking or canoeing is more your speed, Cumberland Kayak offers 1-2 hour rentals and a shuttle service to a river access point.

Head over to the boat house by the shimmering waters of Westhaven Lake where you’ll find Paddle Dog, a one-stop-shop for delicious hot dogs and paddleboard rentals. Grab a board and an oar to float across the lake, then order a hot dog to enjoy while hanging out by the water.

Hit the Trails

Lace up your boots and get ready to hike some of the most beautiful trails in Tennessee! Follow the Natchez Trace Parkway to Timberland Park, which features more than 3 miles of secluded trails through lush forests and meadows. Drive a little further down the Trace to milepost 427.6 to hike the 1.3-mile long Garrison Creek Loop trail, suitable for all skill levels.

Travel just beyond Franklin to Thompson’s Station and take a hike through history at Preservation Park, a Civil War battlefield-turned-trail that leads to a grassy hill with unbeatable scenic views. In Brentwood, purchase a day pass or join a guided hike at Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary, a wildlife conservation center and idyllic hiking spot.

Pedal your way through Franklin on an electric bike from Pedego, or check out one of their guided tours! For mountain biking, gear up and head out to Wilkins Branch Mountain Bike Park, a spot featuring a variety of trails for different skill levels.

Fun with the Fam

Spend summer break making memories with the whole family at one-of-a-kind spots you’ll only find in Franklin! Strap in and climb your way up four levels of challenging yet fun obstacles at SOAR Adventure Tower, or stay on the ground for a round of mini golf.

If you’re in town on a Saturday, pick up fresh produce or food truck fare at the Franklin Farmers Market at The Factory, then walk across the street to The Park at Harlinsdale Farm for a family picnic.

Get outdoors and explore all Franklin has to offer with a free digital passport! Cool off with a frozen treat from an ice cream shop on the Sweet Treats Trail, then solve clues leading to Franklin’s landmarks on the Midnight Sun Scavenger Hunt. For picture-perfect family photos, sign up for the Murals of Williamson County passport to pose in front of vibrant works of art. Be sure to tag @visitfranklintn on Instagram!

Summer Events

Tennessee Renaissance Festival

Weekends in May

Juneteenth Celebration

June 17

Franklin on the Fourth

July 4

Bluegrass Along the Harpeth

July 21 - 22

Williamson County Fair

August 4 - 12

Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival

September 23 - 24