This Is The Most Welcoming Town In Indiana
Indiana is pretty cold right now, but you can easily find a way to warm up. Head to Central Indiana, to the town of Franklin, and you will find a welcome so warm that it could melt the winter chill.
About 25,000 residents call this town home, and just half an hour south of Indy, it seems like they can turn even the smallest occasion into a festival. Even the local farms join in on the fun, inviting you to wander through rows of lavender or through a surprisingly cheerful greenhouse. The local restaurants are equally big-hearted, often working behind the scenes to support the community in ways you might not expect. And there is so much more to uncover. It is time to dive into the warmth and magic of Franklin, Indiana.
Community Events And Festivals
It is essentially always a good time to visit Franklin, as the town hosts events throughout the entire year! Some events are recurring, like First Fridays, when local businesses stay open late, and live music fills the downtown area. The Farmers Market takes place throughout the summer, offering an array of local produce and handcrafted goods for sale. In fact, Franklin’s farmers market was voted the best in Indiana last year!
In addition to the seasonal farmers market, the town hosts other events that support local vendors, including the Spring and Fall Vintage & Handmade Fests held in April and October. If you love strawberries, you should also add Franklin’s Strawberries on the Square to your calendar. Set for May 22nd this year, this eccentric festival promises lots of juicy strawberries, shortcakes, and ice cream. And, of course, you can’t miss the town’s holiday festivities, which include a three-day Holiday Open House shopping event in November and the Holiday Lighting and Winter Market at the beginning of December! Believe it or not, these are just a few of the festivals that Franklin has scheduled this year, so make sure to check out the town’s event calendar for yourself before your visit.
Gathering For Good Food
Dining in Franklin comes with a feel-good bonus, as many restaurants donate a portion of their profits back to the community! Coffeehouse Five is one such example, a local coffee shop that uses its net revenue to support community initiatives like mental health programs, free mentor training, and free marriage counseling. The menu is delicious too, serving brewed coffee, espresso, teas, smoothies, cookies, and pastries.
For a heartier meal, consider grabbing breakfast or lunch at Ann’s Restaurant, which has been operating in Franklin since 1952. This restaurant supports the community as well, with proceeds helping cover patient expenses for a recovery treatment facility. Afterward, stop by Hoosier Cupboard Candy, Snacks and Ice Cream for a post-lunch treat. This sweet shop also features the Franklin Railroad Depot Museum inside, which is filled with railroad memorabilia. Talk about a sweet way to learn about the town’s history!
Friendly Farms
Surrounding Franklin are some of the region’s friendliest farms, which play an important role in cultivating the town’s spirit. Just 10 minutes north of downtown, you will find Dollie’s Farm, a beautiful lavender farm that offers u-pick experiences during the bloom season. During your visit, you can also purchase some lavender specialty products, such as massage oils, face creams, and fragrant pillows. Between April and the beginning of June, you can also swing by Sunny Lawn Farms for a new plant. A greenhouse and nursery, this local gem sells an impressive variety of annuals, perennials, and succulents. Lastly, if you live relatively close to Franklin, you might enjoy making a pit stop at Sugar Creek Farm Market. Situated 10 minutes south of town, this little farm sells some incredible cuts of meat, such as brisket, sirloin, ribeye, and New York strip.
Arts And Entertainment
Franklin’s commitment to local artists is evident throughout the community. Built in 1922 as a silent movie house, the Historic Artcraft Theatre remains one of Franklin’s most recognizable artistic landmarks, hosting film screenings, live concerts, and performances. The theater even hosts bingo nights on Tuesdays once a month for an easygoing night out! You can also find murals all throughout the art district, with many concentrated around the amphitheater on Monroe Street. Travelers can also enjoy art shows and workshops at Generation Art and Frame, a centrally located gallery showcasing works by local artists.
An Optional Extension To Your Itinerary
If you have a few extra days and are looking to extend your trip, there are some great towns nearby. Nashville is just a 40-minute drive south, and is a classic art town in Indiana. There are some great places to enjoy live performances here, including the Brown County Music Center for concerts and the Brown County Playhouse for stand-up comedy, sing-alongs, and music tributes.
Continue further south, and you will eventually reach Madison, an Ohio River town popular for outdoor recreation. This area provides easy access to Clifty Falls State Park, home to beautiful waterfalls, a canyon, and creek beds scattered with fossils.
A Town That Makes Things Brighter
Franklin offers the kind of warmth that makes the year feel a little brighter. If you visit near the beginning of the month, you can join the community for one of their First Fridays, or check out the schedule at the Artcraft Theatre for even more. Later on in the year, there are all sorts of activities to look forward to, including craft markets, strawberry festivals, and lavender picking. The coffee shops and restaurants, meanwhile, await you with open arms all year long. It is looking like this year will be the friendliest yet!
