Art, Bourbon, Mint, & More – Explore Franklin, Kentucky with Us
Franklin is all the best of small-town America. It seems to have raised and drawn creatives for decades who have left much of their work on public display. We could write an entire blog on their public art: murals, sculptures, live music series and so much more.
The town is also full of large scale creativity – within Franklin’s borders, you’ll find an 18 hole regulation golf course designed by native and pro-golfer, Kenny Perry. Built in 1995, Kenny Perry’s Country Creek Golf Course sits on 300 acres of rolling, green Kentucky hillside. If golf is your sport, it’s a course you don’t want to miss.
In 2014, a creative craft business opened in Franklin. Dueling Grounds Distillery, inspired by the local Linkumpinch Grounds where duels occurred in years past, is on Kentucky Tourism’s craft bourbon trail. They produce bourbon, fruit liqueurs and even pizza on the weekends. They recently filled their 500th barrel so join us in congratulating them when you visit!
Now, let’s talk turf thoroughbred racing, quaint shopping and notable history.
Franklin has a lively downtown atmosphere with delicious food and shopping. One of our consistent favorite spots there is the Gallery on the Square, which is a consortium of local and regional artists. The square is also home to the church where Johnny Cash and June Carter were married (did we mention Franklin has always drawn creatives?) And the downtown area is also home to the Simpson County Historical Society and Old Jail.
And finally, do you enjoy trying your luck? Franklin is also home to Kentucky Downs and the The Mint Gaming Hall. Kentucky Downs offers seasonal racing on their uniquely not-oval, turf track. And the gaming hall is open year round and has just been beautifully renovated. When you visit, may the odds be ever in your favor.
And before we go, we’ll mention the places we didn’t get to but are on our radar for future trips back. One is Octagon Hall and also the Sandford Duncan Inn, where duelers would spend what could have been their last night. The Inn now has a tasting room on site for the Dueling Grounds Distillery. Find out more about these spots here.
