Few cities around the country can offer a mix of small town living and big city convenience. Franklin, Tennessee is one of those places and with its wonderful landscapes, it has become one of America's best places to live. Located only a short drive from Nashville, Franklin is known for its strong history and a level of hospitality not seen in most places today.

There are historic homes everywhere, Civil War locations, and plenty of other great sights straight out of the late 1800s. All of these things combined to make Franklin a place worthy of its listing as one of the 1,000 places that you must see before you die in North America. It is a community that is unique in many ways and it has a lot to offer families.

Up on Main Street

One of the biggest draws of the city is its vibrant downtown area. The historic part of Franklin is 15 blocks long and it features all sorts of shops, restaurants, and must-see businesses. There are not very many cities around that can match Franklin's downtown in terms of beauty or history, as it has been around for more than two centuries. It is the quintessential American downtown, full of wonderful architecture, beautiful sight lines, and the excellent brick walk ways that have become its staple. During the year, any number of festivals and cultural events can be see taking place in downtown Franklin. This is one of its primary draws, as people from around the region and around the country come to town to see what all the fuss is about.

Vibrant Historical Sites

Though Franklin has evolved a lot over the last two centuries, it is still known primarily as a historical center in the south. It was the host of one of the most famous Civil War battles to ever take place. The Battle of Franklin was important and many of the sites of that battle are well preserved even today. Known as some of the bloodiest hours of the Civil War, the battle itself lives on in history books and in the museums of the city. Individuals who want to experience some of that history can tour a number of old houses that highlight the battle. The Carter House, Lotz House, and Carnton Plantation make up the primary historical tour for Civil War buffs. There is a guided tour on foot that will take visitors around to the most concentrated area of historical markers in the entire state of Tennessee.

Things to do around Franklin

Right around Franklin, there are many opportunities to see different things and be entertained in different ways. Just a little ways from the downtown area, individuals can visit Leiper's Fork, which is a famed historical site. It is a rural community that has been well preserved and it offers quite a few awesome experiences for people to enjoy. There are selections of old time Southern cooking, unique shops, and plenty of the architecture that made the period famous. In addition to taking in the sites there, individuals can experience the beauty of the Arrington Vineyards, as well as many other scenic spots for outdoor activities like biking, camping, and other things.

Franklin is a great city for many reasons and it is no surprise that people are flocking there. There are not many places in the country that can match the beauty, hospitality, and amenities available in and around Franklin.

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