Franklin KentuckyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Franklin, Kentucky.
1. Dueling Grounds Distillery
KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL STOP
Dueling Grounds Distillery is a proud member of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour, offering on-site tours and tastings at the top of the hour starting at 11am Monday through Saturday for $15. Visitors can enjoy their signature Linkumpinch Bourbon brand, named for the farm where duels were once fought in Simpson County. The distillery features a tasting room with Sunday afternoon cocktail events, a selection of distilled products, and a beautiful collection of DGD gear, plus a pizza kitchen open Friday through Sunday.
2. Bright's Antique World
NOSTALGIC TREASURE HUNTING
Bright's Antique World offers 35,000 square feet of uniques and antiques including over 100 booths and showcases. Visitors can enjoy a nostalgic trip down memory lane while browsing through a vast collection of historical items. This popular antique shopping destination allows guests to take home their own piece of history.
3. Octagon Hall Museum
CIVIL WAR HISTORY SITE
The Octagon Hall Museum is an iconic paranormal destination with rich Civil War history, housed in a unique eight-sided structure. This specialty museum is known not only for its historical significance but also for alleged supernatural occurrences that attract paranormal enthusiasts. Located at 6040 Bowling Green Road, the museum provides visitors with a fascinating glimpse into the past while offering a potentially spooky experience.
4. The Mint Gaming Hall
RACING AND GAMING
The Mint Gaming Hall at Kentucky Downs offers an exciting combination of live horse racing and gaming entertainment. Located at 5629 Nashville Road, this entertainment venue is a significant attraction in Franklin. Visitors can enjoy the thrill of horse racing during the racing season while also taking advantage of year-round gaming options.
5. Simpson County Archives and Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Simpson County Archives and Museum showcases the rich local history of Franklin and the surrounding area. Located at 206 North College Street, the museum features exhibits and artifacts that highlight the region's past and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the collection to gain a deeper appreciation for Franklin's historical significance and community development.
6. Gallery on the Square
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
Gallery on the Square is a charming art gallery located at 110 North Main Street in downtown Franklin. The gallery showcases works from local and regional artists, offering a creative perspective on the culture and talent of the area. Visitors can browse through various art forms and potentially purchase unique pieces to take home as souvenirs.
7. Kenny Perry's Country Creek Golf Course
PROFESSIONAL GOLFER'S DESIGN
Kenny Perry's Country Creek Golf Course, designed by PGA Tour professional Kenny Perry, offers a challenging and scenic golfing experience. Located at 1075 Kenny Perry Drive, the course features well-maintained fairways and greens that attract golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. Visitors can enjoy a round of golf in the beautiful Kentucky countryside while appreciating the professional design elements incorporated by its namesake.
8. African American Heritage Center
CULTURAL HISTORY PRESERVATION
The African American Heritage Center preserves and celebrates the cultural contributions and history of African Americans in Franklin and Simpson County. Located at 500 Jefferson Street, this center offers exhibits and educational resources that highlight important historical events and figures. Visitors can gain valuable insights into the African American experience and heritage that has shaped the community.
9. Johnny and June Wedding Historical Marker
COUNTRY MUSIC HISTORY
The Johnny and June Wedding Historical Marker commemorates the marriage of music icons Johnny Cash and June Carter, which took place at the First United Methodist Church on Franklin's downtown square. Located across from the church at 107 North College Street, this marker honors a significant moment in country music history. Music fans and history buffs alike can visit this site to connect with the legacy of these legendary performers.
10. Franklin Historic District
19TH CENTURY ARCHITECTURE
The Franklin Historic District offers visitors a chance to step back in time with its beautifully preserved buildings and historical landmarks from the 19th century. While strolling through the district, tourists can admire the architecture and visit various shops including Willowhill Marketplace, Cedar's Flowers, Twisted Sisters Nutrition, Annabelle and Ashe Boutique, Simply Sweet, and Mustard Seed Market. The area provides a charming glimpse into Franklin's past while offering modern shopping and dining experiences.
11. Mustard Seed Market
MULTI-VENDOR SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Mustard Seed Market is a unique market space boutique featuring 32 small businesses located on the square in Downtown Franklin. Shoppers can explore a great selection of boutique apparel, jewelry, gifts, home decor, vintage items, and much more all under one roof. This community marketplace showcases local entrepreneurs and artisans, making it an ideal spot to find one-of-a-kind items.
12. Sandford Duncan Inn
HISTORIC ACCOMMODATION SITE
The Sandford Duncan Inn is a significant historic site that provides visitors with a glimpse into Franklin's past. This well-preserved inn reflects architectural styles and hospitality traditions from earlier eras in Kentucky. History enthusiasts can appreciate the cultural and historical significance of this landmark building in Simpson County.
13. Ruby Branch Farms
AGRICULTURAL TOURISM DESTINATION
Ruby Branch Farms offers visitors an authentic agricultural experience in the heart of Simpson County. The farm provides opportunities for guests to learn about local farming practices and potentially participate in seasonal activities. Visitors can connect with rural Kentucky lifestyle while enjoying the scenic countryside surroundings.
14. Franklin First United Methodist Church
HISTORIC WEDDING LOCATION
Franklin First United Methodist Church is famous as the wedding site of country music legends Johnny Cash and June Carter. Located on Franklin's downtown square at 107 North College Street, this church is both a functioning place of worship and a significant historical landmark. Architecture enthusiasts and music history fans alike appreciate the building's design and its place in American cultural history.
15. The Roxy Theatre
HISTORIC ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Roxy Theatre is a charming historic venue that has been entertaining the Franklin community for generations. This restored theater combines vintage ambiance with modern entertainment offerings for visitors to enjoy. The Roxy represents an important piece of Franklin's cultural heritage and continues to serve as a gathering place for community events and performances.