Listed as one of the 25 coolest towns in America, Franklin has something for everyone, especially families looking to have some fun. To help you plan your summer adventures, The Gardner School picked our favorite attractions to create a summer bucket list with preschoolers and young children in mind. We hope it will inspire a summer filled with learning, playing, and making memories with your family!
SOAR Adventure Tower
This incredible park is a great outdoor space where families can burn off some energy! The physical (and mental) challenge of the massive four-level tower is designed for children of all ages. Even better—there’s a ground level specifically designed for children ages three to eight. If you’re not up for tackling the tower, the park also offers a mini golf course where children four and under can play for free!
Movies in Pinkerton Park
A free outdoor move is a great way for families to enjoy a night out together. Every Friday from June 9 through July 21, Pinkerton Park is showing family favorites like Moana and Shrek. Pack a picnic and a blanket to enjoy the free shows.
The Natchez Trace Parkway Scenic Drives
Hit the road for a day trip (or weekend road trip) to see the beauty of Tennessee from The Natchez Trace Parkway. The scenic drive is incredible, with plenty of great viewing points along the way. The 444-mile parkway winds through three states and offers families the opportunity to explore trails, experience nature, and so much more.
Mistletoe Farm
If your family loves furry animals, then Mistletoe Farm is a must-see. The farm is packed with a large herd of alpacas and run by husband and wife team Leanna and Tom Butchko. Petting alpacas is pretty popular, so be sure to plan your visit by booking ahead on the farm’s website. In addition to encounters with alpacas, you can sign up for one of the weaving, felting, or spinning classes offered.
Urban Air Adventure Park
This indoor adventure park provides tons of adventures for kids to enjoy, including trampolines, climbing walls, ropes courses, towering playgrounds, and interactive games. The park also has weekly activities scheduled for all ages. Be sure to check out the events specifically built for children under five years old. Urban Air is also a champion of inclusivity, and their activities designed for children with autism are a huge hit with neurodivergent children and families.
Paddle Dog
Paddle Dog Adventures offers canoe and kayak rentals on Westhaven Lake and river adventures on the Harpeth River. While you’re taking in beautiful river views, you might find yourself or your children getting a little hungry. Luckily, Paddle Dog offers gourmet hot dogs and live music on its float adventures. On a hot summer day, nothing is better than cool music, delicious eats, and catchy tunes.
Third Coast Clay
Drop into Third Coast Clay and paint your own pottery! You can visit this creative epicenter any day of the week, but be sure to call ahead if there are more than six people in your party. Located inside the historic Factory at Franklin, you can practice creativity with your family before grabbing a bite to eat at one of the restaurants inside The Factory. It’s a great setting for the perfect family date!
Franklin Family Entertainment Center
Bowling always seems to be a crowd-pleaser with children of all ages. In our opinion, Franklin Family Entertainment Center does it best! The facility offers bowling leagues for children and adults, cosmic bowling, and Highway 66 mini-bowling. You can have hours of fun together playing one of the most simple (and most enjoyable) games on the planet.
The Gardner School Supports Adventurous Learning
Whether through family adventures or in a school setting, children benefit from learning in many different ways. If you’d like to learn more about how The Gardner School serves Franklin families, contact us today.