In the news again? We aren’t surprised! Our favorite small towns in Williamson County, Franklin, Leipers Fork, and Arrington, were the focus of a recent Southern Living Magazine article, ‘Franklin, Tennessee, Is a Magical Fall Destination.’ In Southern Living’s 2024 South’s Best Awards, Franklin wound up the South’s second-best city on the rise in 2024.
The Best of the Best
Throughout the article, we are reminded of Franklin’s magic and all the kind words it has received from locals and visitors alike. The name “Franklin” is usually embellished with flattering descriptors such as “the prettiest,” “most charming,” “friendliest,” “most romantic,” a “Southern dream town,” and the “nicest place in the South.”
Most recently, Southern Living stated, “No longer just a weekend getaway from Nashville, Franklin has fully come into its own as a city, and it’s easy to see why. One of the main draws is the thriving downtown area, which comprises 16 blocks of preserved and restored buildings, like The Franklin Theatre, as well as locally-owned shops and restaurants.”
A Day in Town
Upon the first arrival to the quaint, 16-block historic downtown district, you’ll stroll upon Main Street and its array of small, local businesses occupying restored, historical gems such as The Franklin Theatre. Some of those timeless favorites received a well-deserved mention by Southern Living Magazine, including White’s Mercantile, Biscuit Love, and Landmark Booksellers. A few of our other favorites are the award-winning Merriddee’s Breadbasket (a can’t-miss breakfast and bakery) and Gray’s on Main. Gray’s is in one of the most historic buildings on Main Street, dating back to 1876, originally the Gray Drug Co. In addition to great local music and great food, we love the original elements that have been preserved throughout, like the hallway papered with original, handwritten prescriptions.
Miles and Acres of Beauty
Franklin, as well as throughout all of Middle Tennessee, is in no short supply of fall foliage this time of year. Southern Living suggests grabbing your walking stick and heading to some of the local’s favorite hiking paths, including Timberland Park or Preservation Park.
If you’re more in the mood for a scenic drive, the 444-mile National Scenic Byway of Natchez Trace Parkway is just minutes from The Grove. And don’t forget to have your camera ready when you approach the architectural masterpiece that is the Double Arch Bridge.
A Drive Outside Town
Close to Franklin is the quaint town of Leipers Fork, with antiques, art galleries, and more to discover. Also close by is Arrington, with its rolling countryside and 16 acres of grapes at the main attraction in the area, Arrington Vineyards. Listen to the advice of Southern Living and “purchase a flight of four types of wine and then enjoy it outside on the lush, green property, which is a perfect spot for picnicking.”
Discover Scenic Middle Tennessee
South Living says it best, “Whether you’re dreaming of a quiet cabin in the woods, antiquing in a quaint town, leaf-peeping on a hike, or finding fresh apple cider doughnuts at a farm stand, it doesn’t get much better than a weekend trip to Franklin in Middle Tennessee.”
The Grove, Williamson County’s premier private club community, located minutes from Franklin, shares the same wonders that Middle Tennessee offers; stunning vistas and views and limitless outdoor discovery and adventure opportunities are at your fingertips. We invite you to visit this magical fall destination and be sure to stop by The Grove to experience a community unlike any other. Magnificent homes, impeccable club services, activities and amenities for all ages and interests are just the beginning!
Read the full Southern Living Magazine article here.
More about why The Grove is the #1 selling private club community in the Nashville area.