What to do in Franklin, NC

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Franklin

Types of activities

Where to stay

Franklin travel guide

B0CK6P Pastoral spring scene in Western North Carolina near Franklin

Pretty water fall found when exploring a back road

This little campground has many streams flowing into it, a river running through it, and connects with the Appalachian Trail.

Stunning 360 view at the top of this fire tower

Franklin Attractions

Let Expedia help you to experience the best that Franklin has to offer! If you’re planning a trip to Franklin, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling to Franklin with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes.

Places of interest in Franklin

Franklin is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay in Franklin, and make it a breeze to explore Franklin and the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in Franklin to make sure that you enjoy your holiday to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind.

If you’re planning a visit to Franklin, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights in Franklin.

Franklin attractions

Franklin has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions in Franklin to keep you entertained. Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of Franklin.

Looking for things to do in Franklin can be time-consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine of Franklin or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to Franklin attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season. Happy trails!

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Recommended things to do in Franklin

Number of things to do	14
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia	Smoky Mountain Tour: Self-Guided Drive: £12
Top 5 things to do	Smoky Mountain Tour: Self-Guided Drive Bryson City: Zip Line Adventure Park Pass with Gear Bryson City: Nantahala River Guided Whitewater Rafting Trip Bryson City: Mountaintop Zip Line Experience 3-Hour Nantahala River Fully Guided Rafting Experience
Half-day tours	Bryson City: Zip Line Adventure Park Pass with Gear Bryson City: Nantahala River Guided Whitewater Rafting Trip Bryson City: Mountaintop Zip Line Experience 3-Hour Nantahala River Fully Guided Rafting Experience Bryson City: Tsali Recreation Area Guided Mountain Bike Tour
With kids	Bryson City: Zip Line Adventure Park Pass with Gear Bryson City: Nantahala River Guided Whitewater Rafting Trip Bryson City: Mountaintop Zip Line Experience Bryson City: NOC Rafting & Ducky Kayak Rentals Bryson City: Tsali Recreation Area Guided Mountain Bike Tour

What to do in Franklin

Popular places to visit

Towering observation part of a traditional 19th century factory, Laurel, MD, USA

The Factory

You can take time to visit The Factory during your travels to Franklin. Discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area.

Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts

Take the family on an outing to Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts during your trip to Franklin. Discover the mountain views while you're in the area.

Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine

You can find out about the history of Franklin when you stop by Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine. Wander the riverfront or discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area.

Sheffield Mine

Find out about the history of Franklin when you spend time at Sheffield Mine. Stroll along the riverfront or discover the mountain views in this relaxing area.

Mill Creek Country Club

Enjoy a round of golf in Franklin at Mill Creek Country Club. Discover the mountain views in this relaxing area.

Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine

You can find out about the history of Franklin when you stop by Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine. Wander the riverfront or discover the mountain views in this relaxing area.

Mason's Ruby and Sapphire Mine

Find out about the history of Franklin when you spend time at Mason's Ruby and Sapphire Mine. Discover the mountain views in this relaxing area.

Gold City Gem Mine

Find out about the history of Franklin with a stop at Gold City Gem Mine. Wander the riverfront or discover the mountain views in this relaxing area.

Mason Mountain Mine

You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Mason Mountain Mine during your visit to Franklin. Wander the riverfront or discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area.

Explore areas of Franklin

Clarks Chapel

While Clarks Chapel isn't home to many top sights, Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts and The Factory are some notable places to visit nearby.

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Day trip destinations from Franklin

Sylva

A woman trail running along a rocky ridge in Grandfather Mountain State Park, Linville, North Carolina.

Scaly Mountain

blue ridge mountains near mount mitchell and cragy gardens

Topton

Frequently asked questions

Is Franklin worth visiting?

One of the most common things to do in Franklin is visit Cullasaja Falls. Check this top sight off your list, then experience more of the area's hiking and nature.

How do I spend a day in Franklin?

Kick-start your day with a visit to Cullasaja Falls and Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine. Then, check out different parts of Franklin for a quick bite and some retail therapy.

What is the top tourist attraction in Franklin?

The top tourist attraction in Franklin is Cullasaja Falls, so be sure to add it to your agenda.

Is three days enough to stay in Franklin?

Three days will be enough time to tick off popular city highlights, including Smoky Mountain Centre for the Performing Arts, Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine and Mill Creek Country Club. The average stay in Franklin is two days. If you have the urge to extend your break, Cherokee isn't far away.

What are some activities to do in Franklin with kids?

Deciding what to do in Franklin with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're travelling with little ones or teenagers, there are lots of family-friendly sights and activities to keep them happy here.

What to do in Franklin for adults?

Franklin Gem and Mineral Museum and Ruby City Gems & Minerals are just a couple of the things to do in Franklin. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.

Are there free things to do in Franklin?

From checking out parks to wandering around vibrant neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in Franklin. If you're looking for inspiration, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine is a great spot for anyone wanting to save on their sightseeing activities.