Ever since I was a young adult, I loved to explore new places. Being that Tennessee is within driving distance, I decided to pack up the car and head to a place that I’ve been dreaming about visiting ever since I moved to North Carolina! Franklin, Tennessee is a quaint, beautiful town with a lot to show for people like me!
But before we (my dog and I) got to Franklin, we made a pitstop at a friend’s new Airbnb, and then on the way home, we stopped at one of the most magical places, Roan Mountain. Keep reading to see how the week went!
I am lucky to know such talented people. Jenna and I connected back in 2016 when I was looking for an Airbnb in Charleston, South Carolina. When I look for Airbnb I love to find ones with character and Flowertown Charm has so much of that; I mean I’m talking miniature farm animals that great you in the morning! Such a great & one-of-a-kind experience.
Over the last year or so, Jenna and her husband Chris have been building a treehouse right outside of Waynesville, NC. When I decided to take the trip to TN, though I could have driven straight through, I decided to reach out to Jenna to see if she’d be interested in hosting in trade for some professional photos of the off-the-grid treehouse. I’m so glad she did; it was amazing!
If you’re looking for a small, quaint, town filled with beautiful architecture and delicious restaurants, then Franklin, Tennessee is for you! If you’re looking for all of that PLUS amazing coffee shops, then it’s definitely for you!
I’ve been to Nashville quite a few times but never did the additional 30-minute drive down south since Nashville has so much to offer itself. Though I was told by many people that Franklin could be seen in one day, I decided to do everyday life for a few days to really get the full experience.
Every morning, I woke up super early (thanks to the time change) went for a run, and then hopped in the car to go visit all the cute coffee shops Franklin has to offer! Once the caffeine kicked in, I walked up and down Main Street, went down the side streets, and drove the country roads to take it all in. As far as shopping, there is a local store for everyone. From lovely boutiques to local bookstores, Main Street is a one-hit-wonder.
Just when I thought the week could get any better, I decided to check another bucket list item off my list. Growing up, I hiked the Appalachian Trail every summer with my youth group, and ever since, I love to explore more land by foot so it was about time to hike a new place.
Roan Mountain State Park is right on the border of North Carolina & Tennessee and is known for all of the beautiful rhododendron trees, breathtaking views, and magical forests to stroll through. I really didn’t think things could be so beautiful especially before the rest of the world woke up but watching the sunrise at the top of this mountain was an experience I don’t ever want to take for granted.
Highly recommended. And bring me along if you decide to do it.
One of my goals for this summer was to seek more joy in July and this trip allowed me to just relax, find joy in the mundane and explore new places. I’m so thankful to have visited Canton, Franklin, and Roan Mountain this summer; can’t wait until the next adventure! xoxo