Things to Do in Franklin, NC - Franklin Attractions
Things to Do in Franklin
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- fromper adult (price varies by group size)$168
- Adventure Toursfromper adult$225
- Adventure Toursfrom
$17per adult$15 - On the Waterfromper adult$65
- fromper group (up to 4)$25
- Historical Toursfromper adult (price varies by group size)$85
- Nature and Wildlife Toursfromper adult$110
- 4WD Toursfromper adult$89
- Extreme Sportsfromper adult$123
- fromper adult (price varies by group size)$275
Other Top Attractions around Franklin
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
What travelers are saying
- Robert L1 contributionWe chose Cherokee Ruby Mine over all the others in the area because their buckets are unsalted. My only regret is that we came later in the day and opted for the 2 buckets instead of the unlimited all day option. Next time we are here, we will come as soon as they open and stay ALL day. Eric and his rock tasting friend were extremely helpful and friendly.Written March 14, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Meridian traveler4 contributionsWe stayed at Buttercup Haven that was over the top. Great home for our group with beautiful views. Enjoyed area. Great shopping and dining. Slanted Window and Gracious Plates on Main 5-star excellent food. LeAnder’s Jewelry had beautiful pieces. Bought necklace owners was wearing. Diva on Main also special. Our second trip and will be returning.Written November 22, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- John HLaurel, MS7 contributionsWe had such a good time gem mining at the old cardinal gem mine. Isiah was so helpful in making sure we had everything we needed and then helping identify and separate our gemstones. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there and highly recommend them. My wife also enjoyed talking with Darcelle (Isiah's grandmother) about cooking and old times.Written October 30, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- AMCATLAtlanta, GA36 contributionsWe popped in here not expecting much since most of these type places are just souvenir shops. Wow were we pleasantly surprised!! Room after room of gems and stones from around the world, including locally sourced.
As an interesting bonus- the old jail cell from the 1800’s with original graffiti etc is well worth a look!Written November 11, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Christopher DWashington DC, DC47 contributionsI went to Mason's Ruby and Sapphire Mine at the end of September 2023. The staff were great and very helpful in helping me identify different stones and answering any questions I had. I came away with about 110 carats worth of rubies over the course of the two days. If you have the time and patience, take your tailings home. I found about 80% of the rubies after I had ended the trip at home. You can take your time and clean the stones better which will make it easier to find them by the naked eye or with a blacklight. If this is a route you go, bring sand bags or some kind of large container with you to save your tailings. For estimates, if you just haul dirt and sluce, a single person can probably do about a sandbag full per day. If you can, bring a blacklight flashlight (strong one) with you which will also help while you are there.
I recommend coming early in the day and staying as long as you can, the more dirt you haul the more changes you have in finding a stone. There are bathroom facilities on site and as their website says, bring food and snacks with you because you're in the middle of no where. I got caught up in the mining that I personally didn't stop to eat. Definitely bring a print out of the directions as there is little to no cell service out at the mine. I had a great experience and would definitely go again.Written September 25, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - MickeyCharleston, SC114 contributionsThe show we saw was a good one. They have so many great shows here! We come here often and it’s always a wonderful experience.Written December 3, 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Julia M18 contributionsAbsolutely stunning views and ledges. The photo opportunities on this hike are above average. The hike was moderate but the 2 side trips and final rock formation were amazing!Written September 29, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Eric G34 contributionsGreat palce to vist and to find stones. It can get a little muddy when it rains. One lane road in and out so be careful driving in and out.Written May 30, 2021This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Julia M18 contributionsWe stopped by after hiking. We were tired and hungry. The beer was cold, the food was delicious and we enjoyed trivia night with the locals!Written September 28, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Brad T5 contributionsGoing gem mining is something you can't do just anywhere, and Franklin, NC is the gem capitol of the world! The staff is very knowledgeable, and you might find several valuable gems on your trip!Written August 23, 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Ashtb03165 contributionsThe path to the waterfall is short and not terrible. There are some narrow spots with young kids you just want to hold onto them. The waterfall is big so the hike is definitely worth it.Written July 12, 2022This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- U7112QCjameshAugusta, GA32 contributionsWe are fairly new to Franklin but have experienced another well known local brewery several times and like it. My barber recommended that my wife and I try Currahee BC and we are glad we did. We went on a Friday evening intending to just have a beer or two and go elsewhere for dinner. We liked the vibe and the refreshments so much that we stayed. The embedded food truck, Lil' Sting Ray's, was great for dinner (though a bit slow). It was a chilly evening and we initially tried sitting outside by the river it was just uncomfortably cold for how we were dressed. That said, in warmer weather this outdoor area would be a great place to relax on an afternoon. Looking forward to getting there on a Saturday evening for live music.Written February 17, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions about Franklin
- The top attractions to visit in Franklin are:
- Wayah Bald Lookout Tower
- Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine
- Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts
- Old Cardinal Gem Mine
- Mason's Ruby & Sapphire Mine
- The best outdoor activities in Franklin according to Tripadvisor travelers are: See all outdoor activities in Franklin on Tripadvisor
- The most popular things to do in Franklin with kids according to Tripadvisor travelers are:
- Wayah Bald Lookout Tower
- Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine
- Franklin Gem and Mineral Museum
- Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts
- Mason's Ruby & Sapphire Mine