Talkin’ Tennessee: A Slow-Living Travel Guide to Music, Charm, and Southern Style — Part I: Franklin
If you’re dreaming of a destination in the United States that blends rich history, soulful music, charming neighborhoods, and a slower pace of life, Franklin, Tennessee is the perfect landing. Just 25 minutes south of Nashville, Franklin unfolds into rolling green countryside - expansive, peaceful, and impossibly lush. It’s an invitation to slow down, wander thoughtfully, and experience Tennessee through a quiet, observant, slow-living lens.
Why Franklin
Franklin feels like a gentle reset. Almost immediately after heading south on the highway, the pace shifts. Wide open spaces replace congestion, and time begins to stretch. It’s the kind of place that encourages you to linger — over coffee, conversation, and long walks — without feeling pulled in any particular direction.
Historic Downtown Franklin
Downtown Franklin feels as though you’ve stepped into a Hallmark movie, but without the saccharine edge. Preserved architecture, brick sidewalks, and locally owned shops create a sense of continuity that feels increasingly rare. Antique stores sit comfortably beside modern boutiques, while cafés invite afternoons that blur seamlessly into evening. It’s also one of the most dog-friendly cities I’ve ever visited — perfect if you’re traveling with yours.
One standout is City Farmhouse, my favorite antique shop in all of Tennessee. Kim’s eye for curating pieces and the way she builds layered, livable vignettes, is exceptional. They now host pop-ups throughout Franklin and Nashville, and each one feels worth seeking out.
Leipers Fork
Spending time in Leipers Fork feels almost unreal — like stepping into a fairytale tucked quietly into the countryside. Just fifteen minutes outside of town, this tiny cluster of shops and eateries feels suspended in time. With only a single, walkable stretch, Leipers Fork invites you to slow down even further. Wandering the surrounding countryside — by foot or by car — is unmatched. Spring and fall are especially beautiful, when the landscape feels at its most alive.
The Original Leiper’s Fork Fox & Locke is a classic meat-and-three with incredible live music. You never quite know which musical legend might appear during open mic night — which is part of it's legendary charm.
Where to Eat in Franklin
Gray’s on Main: Live music paired with refined Southern dishes.
Frothy Monkey: Excellent food and coffee in a relaxed setting.
The Coffee House at Second and Bridge: A charming historic home turned neighborhood café, complete with a lovely patio.
JJ’s Wine Bar: The perfect spot for porch-side happy hour.
The Harpeth Hotel Bar & Lounge: A cozy, upscale bar with live music and arguably the best cheeseburger in town.
Where to Stay in Franklin
The Harpeth Hotel: Located in the heart of downtown, both sophisticated and warmly welcoming fully reset intentional
Southall Farm & Inn: An exquisite farm resort nestled among rolling hills; the ideal place to fully reset.
House and Sanctuary:Thoughtfully curated Airbnbs that feel as charming as they are intentional.
