Central Franklin helps this otherwise fast-growing Nashville suburb keep its small-town appeal. The suburb's historic downtown, which anchors Central Franklin, regularly bustles with pedestrians en route to the many eateries, bars and boutiques that line Main Street. The public square, a common meetup spot, is also home to Civil War monuments and the towering Greek Revival style Williamson County Courthouse. The Factory at Franklin, a former stove-making facility, is now a lively mixed-use space that also features trendy restaurants, theater stages and a gallery displaying both local and international art. “I like Franklin — Williamson County in general — way better than Nashville because it’s very quiet and very quaint,” says Samantha Plake, a leasing agent for the Retreat at Iron Horse apartments. “They have a charming downtown. It’s really quaint, and they’ve filmed Lifetime and Hallmark movies there. It’s very sweet.”
Historic Franklin Theater is home in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
You can walk you dog on the quiet streets of the Downtown Franklin neighborhood.
There are mostly older craftsman-style homes in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
There are large brick classical homes in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
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Downtown Franklin’s bustling shopping and dining scene
City Alderman Ann Petersen says, “Way, way back, you could walk down Main Street and know everybody you saw. Now you go to Main Street and there are just so many people there. Sometimes, I look up and see probably 20 people waiting at one of the traffic lights just to be able to cross the street.” Considered one of the nation's 'great American main streets' and recognized by the national register of historic places, this area's charm is immediately made apparent by its streetscapes. Victorian-era architecture, blocks of red-brick buildings and the former Gray's pharmacy, are just a few of the highlights. Businesses like the Avec Moi antique and clothing store provide unique clothing finds, while restaurants like Biscuit Love offer brunch inside a repurposed Queen Anne home known as the Corn House. Patrons of Culaccino Italian Restaurant can start with an octopus appetizer before moving on to either wood-fired pizza or an Italian entree featuring handcrafted pasta. The Factory at Franklin is known for the Nashville-based and award-winning Edley’s Bar-B-Que and Otaku Ramen. The Franklin Farmers Market is another spot to pick up fresh produce and occurs on Saturdays near the Factory, while Kroger is the nearest grocery store option.
Grays Restaurant in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood is a popular place for locals.
There is plenty of boutique shop along the streets of Franklin.
Locals enjoy BBQ from Edleys BBQ in The Factory Franklin.
Puckett's is a local establishment and is family friendly in Franklin.
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Classic and contemporary styles
Franklin is one of the Nashville metro’s most affluent suburbs and many of its million-dollar homes are found in this part of the city. Most date back to the 19th and early 20th centuries, and styles in downtown commonly include Victorians, Craftsman bungalows and American Foursquares. Many lots here span no more than a third-of-an-acre and include room for stylized landscaping like rounded and square-shaped hedges. In the surrounding blocks, just outside of downtown, prospective buyers will also find ranch-style houses, Colonial Revivals and newly built contemporary Traditionals, some of which honor classic designs like English Tudor architecture. Here, homes can range from the mid $500,000s to upwards of several million dollars depending on size, location and condition. For example, a cozy ranch-style home — less than 3,000 square feet in size — can go for $650,000, while some of the newest and expansive estate-sized homes can cost between $1 million and $2.5 million.
Large Brick Classical Home in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
Row of Historic Homes in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood With Manicured Front Lawns.
Large Blue Colonial Revival Home in the Historic Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
Renovated Colonial Home in the Historic Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
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Fishing, running and playing with the pups in Franklin’s own ‘Central Park’
With many locals nicknaming it “Central Park,” The Park at Harlinsdale Farm is Central Franklin’s main outdoor space. This 200-acre park was once home to Midnight Sun, a championship winning Tennessee Walking Horse. Today, the park draws dog owners, anglers and a mix of walkers and runners who use the park's turf track. The park also continues to honor its equestrian roots by providing a trail for horseback riding. The site, which borders the Harpeth River, also provides a launch site for those who want to go canoeing. The Franklin Greenway winds just past Harlinsdale, connecting bikers to other spots like nearby Bicentennial Park and the Franklin Recreation Complex a few miles north. Pinkerton Park is another green space with a large, wooden fixture called the Tinkerbell Playground.
People Walking Their Dog in the Park in Harlinsdale Farm in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
The Pond and Barn in the Harlinsdale Farm Park in Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
Jim Warren Park Sign in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
A Person Sitting Under a Tree in the Jim Warren Park Near the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
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Celebrating pumpkins and living in A Christmas Carol
Tens of thousands flock to downtown and its historic square for seasonal celebrations throughout the year. Franklin’s Christmas Tree Lighting, in early December, is a regional tradition and features performances by various Nashville recording artists. During the Dickens of a Christmas Festival, many walk the streets decked out in Victorian-era clothing while they enjoy live music, shop and taste craft whiskeys and beers. PumpkinFest, in late October, is another celebration that draws over 100,000 people to downtown Franklin. Those who attend dress up in their Halloween costumes and browse over 100 vendor booths as well as food and drink vendors.
Sidewalk View of Grays Restaurant in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
Interior of the Hester and Koch Shop in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
Aerial View of Shops in the Historic Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
Street View of the Waltons Antiques and Estate Jewelry Store in the Downtown Franklin Neighborhood.
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Growing STEM programs at Johnson Elementary and Freedom Intermediate
Williamson County Schools and the Franklin Special School District provide public education for Central Franklin, and both earn A grades from ratings site Niche. Students here may start at Johnson Elementary School, which receives an A-minus grade. From there, they may then attend Freedom Intermediate and Freedom Middle schools, which both receive A grades from Niche. During the spring of 2024, Johnson Elementary and Freedom Intermediate — which only teaches fifth and sixth graders — each received several thousand dollars to generate interest in STEM projects. Johnson Elementary plans to improve its coding and robotics courses, while Freedom Intermediate will teach its students to use a particular type of laser cutter. Students may then finish their secondary education at Centennial High School, which gets an A from Niche.
Centennial High School enrolls over 1,500 students every year in Franklin.
Aerial view of Freedom Intermediate school.
Freedom Middle School includes an outdoor picnic area.
The front main entrance of Johnson Elementary School.
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Columbia Pike commute to Williamson County neighbors
Although most residents drive, the Franklin Transit system does provide bus service here. Columbia Avenue, which turns into the Columbia Pike, branches out from the downtown and provides a route to neighbors like Thompson’s Station, Spring Hill and Columbia. Interstate 65, a few miles east of downtown Franklin, goes to Nashville about 21 miles to the north. Travelers taking commercial flights go to the Nashville International Airport. The Williamson Medical Center provides hospital care and anchors a campus with institutions like the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital.
Important to know
Central Franklin has an overall CAP Index crime score of 3 out of 10, putting it slightly below the national average of 4.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Central Franklin, Franklin sell after 46 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in Central Franklin, Franklin over the last 12 months is $806,500, down 18% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 961 Glass Street, a beautifully maintained home nestled in the heart of historic downtown Franklin. Located 5 minutes from Main Street’s vibrant shops, award-winning restaurants, and live music venues, this charming property blends classic Southern character with modern updates for effortless living. Covered front porch patio with a wonderful porch swing to enjoy morning sunrises and
Open House Sunday, September 14th, 2-4pm. Don’t miss this stunning home built in 2023 on a quiet street in the sought-after Westhaven community. The home includes high ceilings ranging from 9 to 15 feet, high-end finishes, and an open-concept layout filled with natural light. The kitchen and great room open up to the beautiful screened porch through large sliding glass doors. The screened porch
Buyer got cold feet...now the 2.75% assumable mortgage can be yours!! This updated townhome is one block off W Main...walking distance to Historic downtown Franklin! This beautifully well kept townhome is located in a private quiet neighborhood of 15 townhomes. With an abundant 3169 square feet it boasts a formal dining room, living room and primary down. The newly updated kitchen has Carrara
Welcome to Historic Oaklawn! Located on one of the largest residential lots in Downtown Franklin, this 1873 estate was built by William and Ophelia House, grandparents of Minnie Pearl. The current owners have completely reimagined this home, flawlessly blending historic preservation with modernization and luxury. A sprawling wrap around front porch overlooks lush landscaping and West Main Street,
Location, location, location! This charming two-story home is less than one mile from historic downtown Franklin, where you can stroll to award winning restaurants, boutique shops, and timeless historic sites. Featuring 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, this cozy residence offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, all right in the heart of Franklin. Don’t miss the opportunity to live in one of
Enjoy Pilgrimage from your own roof top deck and enjoy sunsets over The Factory water tower,. Experience luxury urban living in this beautifully upgraded 3-story loft townhome, ideally located across from The Factory in Franklin. Designed with an industrial-modern aesthetic, this home features **extensive upgrades** and high-end finishes throughout. **Key Features:** **Private
For Lease 2BR/1BA unit A. Fully renovated, large gated backyard with garden and only steps to Franklin elementary school, beautiful quiet neighborhood. Featuring all new windows, floors, kitchen cabinets, appliances. New washer & dryer included. One pet max 25 lbs or less will be considered on a case by case basis. Landscaping & water included. Minimum 1 year lease. $2,500.00 security deposit,
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Beautifully remodeled home in the heart of Franklin, TN. The main home is 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. There is also a large separate studio space behind the home that could be used as a fourth bedroom or bonus room. The kitchen & living room have an open floorplan w/ vaulted ceilings. There are wood floors throughout the home, new appliances, large eat-at island, and beautifully tiled
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