Franklin shows its rural root with cider mills and historic shops
If you live anywhere near Oakland County, then you’re familiar with the Franklin Cider Mill and the Franklin Grill. And if you’re not, you’re going to want to be familiar. Known for its elegant and stately homes, Franklin Village is a quaint, rural suburb of Oakland County that draws visitors from all over to the seasonal cider mill and apple orchard. They also come to dine in the 18th-century carriage shop that is the Franklin Grill and to shop at the quaint boutique stores that line downtown Franklin. Founded in 1825, Franklin offers pastoral living, with many of its estates existing on acres of land. From the Franklin Historic District, annual community events and proximity to the Franklin Hills Country Club, the village has earned the reputation as a charming place to settle down.
Lush lawns, upscale amenities and village living
The grandiose estates of Franklin Village promote luxurious living with modern and enticing Tudor architectural styles. Homes here are fit for royalty, with upper-level walkways, dramatic views of lush greenery and acres of private yards. Many homes have their own poolside patios and tennis courts. The homes differ vastly from one another and are perfect for hosting dinner parties or simply lounging in your own personal spa or fitness room. The single-family homes range in price from about $300,000 to $7 million.
Annual block parties, historic store architecture and farmers markets
“After a three-year sidewalk project, the area is very walkable,” says Terri Cooper, who has owned Village Boutique Franklin for nine years. “They put sidewalks throughout so walking in the area and downtown is much easier.” Cooper says the downtown shop owners share a camaraderie and eagerly welcome any new businesses. She also says she’s noticed more younger residents enjoying the many community activities that are held in Franklin and downtown Franklin. “There are block parties and there’s a gazebo where we have our Farmers Market every Sunday and also where a lot of community events are held,” says Cooper, whose shop specializes in women’s clothing and accessories – some locally made.
Down Main Street, you’ll find quaint shops, historic architecture and the Annual Summer Block Party. Stop on into Franklin Grill, located in an 18th-century carriage shop and eat a meal on their beautiful garden patio. Stop by Madeleine's French Patisserie and Market and enjoy decadent European pastries. Update your wardrobe at Cooper’s Village Boutique. Located just out of the neighborhood is Franklin Cider Mill, a family-owned mill that dates back to the 1830s and is popular for its apple cider and donuts. For groceries, in addition to smaller markets, the Meijer department store is just three miles away.
Kids learn in the Birmingham Public School district
Franklin Village is zoned for the neighboring Birmingham Public School district – which operates 14 schools. Niche ranks the district as No. 5 of 557 Michigan districts. Pierce Elementary School is known for its overall high test scores and Derby Middle School is recognized for its continuing improvement, while Seaholm High School has earned a reputation for being a great school for college preparation – ranking far above the state average in key measures of college and career readiness. Additionally, the village also is near esteemed private schools like Detroit Country Day and Cranbrook Schools, which offer top-notch education with a focus on holistic development.
Strolling through Franklin Community Park or the historic district
Beverly Hills Village Park in Franklin is known for having one of the best sledding hills in Oakland County. The Franklin Community Association owns and maintains four acres of green space in the heart of Franklin Village. The park property includes two tennis courts, a large gazebo, a walking path, and two baseball and softball fields. FCA membership dues help pay for the mowing, upkeep, beautification, and insurance of Franklin Community Park. The Franklin Historic District is known as “The Town that Time Forget," and will delight you with its small-town, local shops and rustic feel. The Franklin Public Library will tell you all you need to know about this rural suburb.
![Eric Lynch]()
Photography Contributed By
Eric Lynch
