What Are The Best Tours & Things To Do In Franklin? Our Top 8 Picks

Franklin offers more than just its charming downtown — it’s a playground for those who love outdoor adventures, history, and local flavor. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping rides through Tennessee’s rugged terrain, relaxing winery tours, or immersive city explorations, Franklin delivers.

We’re particularly fond of the 4 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience for its high-energy exploration of Tennessee’s wild side, and the Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour for a relaxed, historical tour through Franklin’s storied streets.

These experiences highlight the diversity of what this town has to offer — from rugged landscapes to the elegance of local wineries.

Franklin’s variety of tours combines adventure, culture, and history, making it a destination suited for outdoor lovers, history buffs, and families alike. Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of each top-rated experience, helping you choose the perfect way to spend your time in this vibrant town.

1. 4 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience

At number one, this Back Country Can-Am Experience is a standout for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. For around $255 per person, you get a 4-hour guided ride through Tennessee’s rugged landscape aboard a side-by-side (SXS) vehicle.

The tour begins in Williamsport, where you’ll learn how to operate the vehicle safely — a must if you want to feel confident navigating dirt roads, shallow creeks, and off-road trails.

What makes this tour unique is the combination of adrenaline and scenery: you’ll cross waterfalls, pass ghost towns, explore caves, and see waterfalls along the way. The small group size (max four participants) ensures personalized attention, and all safety gear is provided. Guests consistently praise the guide’s ability to make the adventure both fun and safe.

Many reviews highlight how the mix of terrains — from bumpy paths to water crossings — keeps the ride exciting, with one person calling it “the best four hours of the day.” This experience is ideal for families, couples, or anyone wanting an active way to enjoy Tennessee’s wilderness.

Bottom line: If you crave an authentic, high-energy adventure that combines scenic views with off-road excitement, this tour is tough to beat.

2. 3 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience

For a shorter yet equally compelling adventure, the 3 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience offers a quick dose of Tennessee’s backcountry magic for about $229 per person.

This guided tour takes you through the same rugged trails, crossing creeks, visiting waterfalls, and passing through ghost towns and historic sites. It’s perfect if your schedule is tight but you still want to experience the region’s natural beauty.

Guided by knowledgeable hosts like Matt, visitors enjoy engaging commentary along the way. One review notes, “The whole experience was awesome,” emphasizing the scenic beauty and fun riding. The tour is flexible, with the option to explore both scenic and off-the-beaten-path routes, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

The fact that it operates year-round means you can enjoy Tennessee’s seasonal changes, from lush springs to colorful autumns.

Bottom line: This tour offers a compact, fun-filled way to experience Tennessee’s wilderness without sacrificing the highlights.

3. 4 Hour Can-Am Experience to Hampshire Wineries

Wine lovers will find a delightful experience in the Can-Am Wineries Tour, which combines Tennessee’s rustic landscapes with local wine tastings.

For around $255, you’ll spend four hours exploring backroads in a side-by-side vehicle, stopping at three nearby wineries, including the highly-rated Amber Falls Winery & Cellars. The tour also visits Keg Springs Winery and Natchez Hills Winery when possible.

This tour offers a blend of outdoor adventure and relaxing tastings. The small-group setting ensures more personalized attention, and safety equipment is provided. Guests often enjoy the chance to sample local wines, listen to live summer music, and enjoy food truck options during the visit. Many reviews highlight the rugged terrain crossing and the fun of riding through scenic country roads.

It’s especially suited for those who want to combine their love of wine with a bit of adventure — making it ideal for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a scenic day out.

Bottom line: Perfect for wine enthusiasts who also want to enjoy Tennessee’s countryside from an open-air vehicle.

4. VIP 8 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience

Looking for a full-day adventure? The VIP 8 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience is a top-tier choice. With a maximum of four participants, it offers an intimate, personalized exploration of Tennessee’s wild side. For $510, you can drive or ride along as you cross waterfalls, rivers, and rugged trails, with the option to stop for a country store lunch (additional cost).

What sets this tour apart is its length and exclusivity. It provides a deep dive into Tennessee’s backcountry, allowing you to see more remote areas that are often inaccessible on shorter tours. The guides are experienced, and safety gear is provided throughout.

Reviewers mention feeling like part of a family — “Country people are the best,” one wrote — and praise the friendly, personalized service.

Bottom line: If you want a comprehensive, leisurely day in nature with a small group, this VIP tour offers unmatched intimacy and scope.

5. Franklin Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour with Live Narration

For a more relaxed way to learn about Franklin’s history and culture, the Hop-On Hop-Off Tour is a great choice at just $39 per person. Over about 7 hours, you can explore five stops around Franklin, starting from the Visitor Center on Main Street. The vintage trolley offers live narration, giving you a rich background on the city’s civil war sites, historic homes, and local attractions.

Highlights include visits to Carnton and the Carter House, both deeply tied to the town’s history. The flexibility to hop on and off makes it perfect for those who want to take their time at each site. The reviews note the guide’s enthusiasm and the ease of seeing multiple points of interest without rushing.

Bottom line: Ideal for history buffs or travelers who prefer a laid-back, informative city tour with the flexibility to explore at their own pace.

6. Jack Daniels Smooth Distillery Tours Shopping and Barbecue

No visit to Tennessee is complete without a trip to the iconic Jack Daniels Distillery. For about $175, this tour combines a visit to the world-famous distillery with time to explore Lynchburg’s local shops and enjoy a hearty BBQ. The journey includes a free sample of Jack Daniels whiskey and time to browse the retail stores for souvenirs, whiskey barrels, and more.

Guests appreciate the relaxed pace and the opportunity to photograph the distillery’s historic buildings. While the tour doesn’t include a formal tasting at the distillery, the free whiskey and shopping add to the fun. It’s suited for those who love whiskey, country charm, and southern cuisine — perfect for a half-day outing.

Bottom line: A classic Tennessee experience blending history, shopping, and barbecue, with enough time to enjoy Lynchburg’s small-town charm.

7. Franklin Fiasco Scavenger Hunt

For something truly different, the Franklin Fiasco Scavenger Hunt offers a playful way to discover the town’s hidden corners. For just $29, you get a two-hour, interactive adventure guided by a live remote host via your phone. This experience turns exploring Franklin into a fun detective challenge, exploring points of interest in a creative way.

Though it’s a shorter, less traditional activity, reviews mention the novelty and entertainment value. It’s best suited for groups looking for an active, social experience that’s perfect for families or friends wanting to mix sightseeing with a puzzle.

Bottom line: Ideal if you want to combine sightseeing with a puzzle-solving adventure that keeps everyone engaged.

8. Half-Day Private Downtown Nashville Build-Your-Own Tour

Although based in Franklin, this Build-Your-Own Tour is perfect for customizing your Nashville experience. Up to six people can craft a personalized four-hour itinerary, stopping at Lower Broadway, East Nashville, and the Farmers’ Market.

This private tour is great if you want flexibility and tailor-made experiences. You can focus on honky tonks, craft breweries, or local eateries — whatever suits your interests. Cost is $550 per group, making it a good value for a flexible, private experience. Keep in mind, this is ideal for travelers who prefer a curated, intimate tour over a set schedule.

Bottom line: Best for groups wanting a customized Nashville experience with the comfort of private planning.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Franklin

Choosing between these options depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If adventure is your priority, the 4 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience or the VIP full-day offer unmatched rugged exploration. For wine fans, the Hampshire wineries tour combines scenic riding with tastings.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the Franklin hop-on hop-off or the Nashville build-your-own tour for flexible city explorations.

Consider your budget, activity level, and whether you want a structured or private experience. Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours like the Back Country Can-Am or the Winery tour, as spots fill quickly.

In summary, Franklin provides an impressive array of activities, from adrenaline-pumping adventures and scenic winery rides to historical city tours and quirky scavenger hunts. For thrill-seekers, the off-road SXS rides lead the pack, while those seeking culture can enjoy Franklin’s hop-on-hop-off or personalized Nashville tours.

Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or looking for a romantic getaway, Franklin’s diverse offerings promise memorable experiences. Be sure to book early, and enjoy your time exploring this lively, authentic Tennessee town.