You'll love Franklin.

Voted Indiana’s Best Main Street, downtown Franklin is known for its charming feel, numerous vintage and antique shops, vibrant art scene and lively festivals. The city is anchored by its beautiful courthouse, which serves as the centerpiece to its local businesses, shops and attractions. With a stroll through the downtown, you’ll find nearly a dozen vintage and antique shops, excellent dining, stylish boutiques, cozy coffee shops and historic architecture along the way. Find the fun with activities like mini bowling at 10 Pins, a classic movie at The Historic Artcraft Theatre or a tour through the Franklin Arts District. There’s so much to explore in downtown Franklin.

Shopping

There are nearly a dozen vintage and antique shops in downtown Franklin. You could spend the entire day strolling from one end of Jefferson Street to the other, stopping at shops and restaurants along the way. Visit Franklin’s oldest vintage shop, Vintage Whimsy. Find antique furniture and fixtures at Madison Street Salvage or Salvage Sisters. Shop for home décor and sample gourmet snacks at Possibilities: Home Reimagined. Visit Farm Girl Mercantile for fashion, décor and an outdoor space where they sell flowers and host events. Beyond vintage, Franklin has shops like Middle Davids Artisan Candles, Toodleydoo Toys, Wild Geese Bookshop and great boutiques as well. Click here to learn about all the local shops in Franklin.

Things to Do

Whether you’re looking for something exciting like mini bowling at 10 Pins Franklin, something classic like a movie at The Historic Artcraft Theater, or something outdoors like a bike ride through the downtown parks, you won’t be bored in Franklin. Check out the succulent bar at The Grove Botany Boutique. Follow the city’s multi-use trails through parks, playgrounds, a splash pad, pickleball courts and more. Walk through the Franklin Arts District for plenty of selfie opportunities. The Artcraft Alley, an art installation with 200 colorful stars overhead, is a favorite. It’s even cooler at night when the stars glow under blacklight. Stop by the Festival Country Indiana Visitor Center for interactive exhibits, selfie spots and information. 

Dining

Looking for upscale dining? Visit RFD Franklin, located in an old post office and known for their steak, pasta and seafood. How about a casual lunch spot? Main & Madison is a local favorite that serves handcrafted beverages, pastries, sandwiches and more. Whether it’s a classic diner or gourmet tacos, there are options for every palate within walking distance. Downtown Franklin is also a great place to grab a craft beer. Visit Shale Creek Brewing for specialty brews in a unique building that features a retractable roof. Or head to Old Towne Beer Hall & Growler Company to try out the self-serve iPourIt system that allows you to sample 40 beers, 10 cocktails and five wines. If you’re bringing the kids, check out the sweet spots, like Hoosier Cupboard Candy, Snacks & Ice Cream. Click here to find more.

Events

A trip to Franklin wouldn’t be complete without experiencing one of the exciting festivals or events. Kick off the season with Strawberries on the Square, fill your summer nights with concerts at the amphitheater, sip on craft beer and wine at Hops & Vines and more. Nearly every weekend brings a new, lively event. On Saturday mornings, the amphitheater hosts a bustling farmers market, then on most Friday and Saturday evenings it's home to concerts and events. Discover even more on our event list.

Here's what people are saying about downtown Franklin:

Franklin among "The Best Small Towns to Visit on a Road Trip of America"

- AutoAccessoriesGarage.com

Downtown Franklin named "Best Indiana Main Street"

- Visit Indiana

Franklin called "Best Charming Small City in Indiana"

- MSN