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 or candle bar at The Grove Botany Boutique. Customize and pour your own candle at Woven Co. Candle Studio. 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. Kuji Alley, a Japan-inspired art installation with floating lanterns overhead, is a favorite, as is Artcraft Alley with its floating kites that glow under blacklight at night. Stop by the Festival Country Indiana Visitor Center for interactive exhibits, selfie spots and information. 

Dining

Experience authentic Italian fine dining in the heart of the city at Iozzo's on Jefferson. Looking for 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, 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 or Millie's Ice Cream Co. Click here to find more.

Events

A trip to Franklin wouldn’t be complete without experiencing one of the exciting festivals or events. Fill your evenings with concerts at the amphitheater, enjoy shopping and entertainment during First Fridays, savor strawberry shortcakes and live music at Strawberries on the Square and more. Nearly every weekend brings a new, lively event. On Saturday mornings from June to September, the amphitheater hosts a bustling farmers market, then on most 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