If you ever wonder what there is to do in the Franklin area, the best people to ask are the nice folks at VisitFranklin.com. Among all their other fun options, they set up self-guided trails based on different themes.   

It’s super easy: You don’t need to download an app or pay a fee. Just visit the website for the trail of your choice—they’re all linked below—and sign up for your digital passport. It will be delivered to you in seconds by text and is immediately ready to use. Then, when you visit a participating location, open your pass, find the location you’re visiting and use your smartphone’s GPS to check in. Bonus: there are prizes when you visit a certain number of stops!

SWEET TREATS TRAIL

Image: Photo by Stefan K on Unsplash

If the holidays didn’t provide enough desserts to suit you, find the motherlode of sweet goodness on the Sweat Treats Trail. Donuts and chocolates and cake, oh my! Not to mention frozen custard, fudge, pies and delicious baked goods of all kinds. Bonus: enjoy discounts at select trail locations.

See the sweets and get your pass.

FRANKLIN MURAL TRAIL

Image:  VisitFranklin.com

Not only does the Franklin Mural Trail take you to more than a dozen Insta-worthy backdrops, it tells the stories behind the art. When you post those photos, be sure to tag Visit Franklin (IG: @visitfranklintn) for a chance to be featured on their feed. Check in at three or more and be eligible for a Murals pin from the Franklin Visitors Center.

Grab your phone and get your pass.

CRAFT COFFEE TRAIL

Image: Foundry Co from Pixabay

Coffee lovers, this is a must-do! Who knew there were so many amazing local coffee shops and roasters in the area? Many of them serve breakfast, lunch or snacks, so go hungry as well as thirsty. It’s probably best if you don’t try to hit all fifteen stops in one day, though. Spread out that caffeinated goodness. Your nerves—and your companions—will thank you.

Check out where to fill your cup and get your pass.

HAUNTS & HEADSTONES TRAIL

Image: VisitFranklin.com

Walking along this trail, the shivers might not all be due to the winter weather. Your route will take you past some of Franklin’s most haunted homes and historic cemeteries . . . linger if you dare! Along the way you’ll learn stories from Franklin’s past. For even more haunted history, check out Franklin on Foot’s guided ghost tours.

Gather your courage and get your pass.

MASTERS & MAKERS TRAIL

Image: VisitFranklin.com

Winding through more than 70 miles of scenic Williamson County countryside, the Masters & Makers trail features local wineries and distilleries. Meet the makers, sample their wares and enjoy the views between each stop before picking up your trail t-shirt at the Franklin Visitor Center. Please drink responsibly.

Meet the Makers and get your pass.

MIDNIGHT SUN SCAVENGER HUNT

This family-friendly trail celebrates Franklin’s local history and its famous Tennessee Walking Horse, Midnight Sun. Solve each of the ten clues to find statues of Midnight Sun—created by renowned sculptor (and Franklin resident) Janel Maher—located throughout the city. Don’t forget to pick up your prize once you’ve found them all!

Download coloring pages for the kids and get your pass.

For even more trails to explore, plus info on other fun things to do in the area, download a free visitor guide from VisitFranklin.com.