Factory at Franklin
230 Franklin Rd, Franklin, TN, 37064
Once home to large-scale manufacturing plants, the Factory at Franklin is now a popular destination for shopping, art, and dining just outside of Nashville. Stop by for a look at the renovated space, which pays homage to the building’s industrial roots, or make a day of it by grabbing a bite to eat and catching a show at the on-site theater.
The basics
The Factory at Franklin hosts an eclectic mix of offerings under one roof, from trendy bars and restaurants slinging Southern favorites to artisan shops featuring local makers to a boutique yoga and fitness studio. While it’s easy enough to spend a few hours exploring the 350,000-square-foot (32,516-square-meter) complex on your own, a guided tour can help you make the most of your time. The Factory offers its own guided historical tours, which you can book through its website, or you can dig into interests like food and shopping through tours offered by independent operators.
Things to know before you go
Free parking is available, in addition to limited valet service.
Outside food and drinks are not allowed.
While service animals are permitted inside, non-service animals must remain in the outdoor spaces.
How to get there
The Factory at Franklin is about a 30-minute drive south of Nashville—there’s no direct public transit between Nashville and Franklin—and a 3-minute drive from downtown Franklin; walking is not recommended due to inconsistent access to sidewalks. On Saturdays from morning to late afternoon, you can take a shuttle from Liberty Elementary School for a small fee each way.
When to get there
The Factory at Franklin is open daily from morning to night, though individual shop and restaurant hours may vary. Be sure to check the Factory website for holiday closures and special events, such as the seasonal farmers market and live shows at the Mockingbird Theater.
History of the Factory at Franklin
The Factory at Franklin, which has a nearly 100-year history, was a literal factory for years before being converted into the modern mall that it is today. After beginning construction in 1929, Dortch Stove Works moved in, followed by Magic Chef Inc., then Jamison Bedding Company. The building was dormant from 1991 to 1996, when it was bought by an investor who had a vision for transforming it into a creative gathering space for the community.
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