One of our favorite places to visit in the area is historic Cheekwood. Book tickets for the stunning botanical gardens or the impressive mansion filled with incredible artwork, or both - we prefer both! Cheekwood is a beautiful place to get your steps in while also appreciating one of Nashville’s historic landmarks.
One of the first restaurants Brandon and Amanda went to when they first visited Franklin is 55 South, and it’s still a restaurant they frequent! Visited by Guy Fieri for Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, the “The menu at 55 South showcases [owner and chef] McConnell’s take on the down-home, southern comfort food he’s enjoyed his whole life.” Be sure to check out the Char Grilled Oysters, Deviled Eggs, and Garlic Parmesan Crab Fries! They also have a fantastic weekend brunch with a pretty impressive Build Your Own Bloody Mary Bar. The restaurant is smack-dab in the middle of historic Main Street so be sure to explore the shops around it.
Not too far from our wedding venue, Arrington Vineyards offers a relaxing, countryside atmosphere coupled with delicious wine slushies and flights! Amanda’s favorite at the moment is a bottle of the Sweet Reds. The vineyard is co-owned by country music legend Kix Brooks and features live jazz and bluegrass music on the weekends.
One of Brandon and Amanda’s favorite places to visit is the Nashville Zoo! You may be thinking, “A zoo, smack dab in the bustling city of Nashville? No, thanks!” but you would be wrong – we promise it has Animal Kingdom vibes and so many incredible, adorable animals for you to see. Be sure to check out the Komodo dragons, they’re Brandon’s favorite!
Most things in Franklin are historic, and The Factory is no exception! Once a stove manufacturing building, The Factory is now an indoor shopping experience with an outdoor Farmer’s Market on Saturdays. Home to amazing eats like our favorite, Five Daughters Bakery, and some pretty cool Tennessee souvenir and small business shops, you’ll have to visit while you’re here!