Franklin, Ohio
Welcome to Franklin, Ohio: A Charming Weekend Getaway!
Nestled in the heart of Ohio, Franklin is a picturesque city that offers a delightful blend of history, natural beauty, and small-town charm. With its vibrant downtown area, fascinating historical sites, and a wide range of recreational activities, Franklin is the perfect destination for a memorable three-day weekend trip with your friends. Get ready to explore this hidden gem and discover the top-rated attractions, mouthwatering dining options, and captivating sightseeing spots that Franklin has to offer.
Day 1: Exploring Franklin’s Rich History
Breakfast at the Franklin Station Deli
Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast at Franklin Station Deli. This charming eatery, located in a beautifully restored train station, offers a delectable menu featuring homemade pastries, hearty breakfast sandwiches, and freshly brewed coffee. Indulge in their signature dish, the Train Wreck Breakfast, which combines scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, and cheese on a toasted bagel.
Franklin Area Historical Society & Heritage Center
Immerse yourself in Franklin’s rich history by visiting the Franklin Area Historical Society & Heritage Center. Housed in a former church, this museum showcases the city’s past through fascinating exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays. Explore the various sections, including the Native American exhibit, the Civil War era collection, and the display highlighting Franklin’s unique role in the prohibition era. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the famous Franklin House, a former speakeasy and brothel-turned-historical landmark.
Lunch at JD Legends Entertainment Complex
After a morning of discovery, head to JD Legends Entertainment Complex for a scrumptious lunch. This multifaceted venue offers a range of dining options, including a sports bar, a pizzeria, and an outdoor patio. Indulge in their mouthwatering BBQ pulled pork sandwich, served with crispy fries and a side of tangy coleslaw. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the friendly atmosphere while savoring your meal.
Franklin Public Library & Mural Tour
Take a leisurely stroll to the Franklin Public Library, where you can immerse yourself in literature and admire the stunning murals adorning the building’s exterior. This cozy library offers a peaceful environment for book lovers and makes for a great place to unwind. After exploring the library, wander around the downtown area to discover various murals that depict the city’s history, natural beauty, and community spirit.
Dinner at JD’s Restaurant & Pub
Satisfy your evening cravings at JD’s Restaurant & Pub, conveniently located within walking distance from the library. This local favorite offers a diverse menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, salads, and hearty entrées. Treat yourself to their famous JD’s Big Burger, piled high with toppings of your choice and served with golden fries. Pair your meal with a refreshing craft beer from their extensive selection.
Evening stroll along the Great Miami Riverway
As the sun sets, take a leisurely evening stroll along the Great Miami Riverway. This scenic pathway offers breathtaking views of the Great Miami River and showcases the natural beauty that surrounds Franklin. Enjoy the tranquility of the riverbank, watch the vibrant sunset hues dance on the water’s surface, and relish the peaceful ambiance that Franklin has to offer.
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures and Local Delights
Breakfast at Franklin Doughnut Shoppe
Start your second day with a visit to the charming Franklin Doughnut Shoppe, a local treasure that has been serving delectable doughnuts since 1963. Choose from a variety of flavors, from classic glazed to unique creations like maple bacon or apple fritters. Enjoy your freshly baked doughnut with a cup of coffee or milk, and let the sweet aroma transport you to a state of pure bliss.
Explore Caesar Creek State Park
Embark on an outdoor adventure at Caesar Creek State Park, located just a short drive from Franklin. This expansive park offers a multitude of recreational activities, including hiking, boating, fishing, and camping. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the park’s well-maintained trails, like the scenic Gorge Trail or the challenging 12-mile Perimeter Loop. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding wilderness.
Lunch at Bullwinkle’s Top Hat Bistro
After working up an appetite, make your way to Bullwinkle’s Top Hat Bistro, a local gem known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious comfort food. Indulge in their famous chicken and noodles, a mouthwatering dish made with tender chicken, homemade noodles, and savory gravy. The menu also offers a variety of vegetarian options, including the flavorful black bean burger served with crispy fries.
Explore Franklin’s Antique District
Dedicate the afternoon to exploring Franklin’s charming Antique District, where you can browse through a plethora of unique shops and discover hidden treasures. Spend some time at The Franklin Antique Mall, a sprawling marketplace filled with a diverse array of antiques, collectibles, and vintage items. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit The Pendleton Art Center, a converted factory that now houses numerous art studios, galleries, and shops.
Dinner at Franklin House Tavern
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Franklin House Tavern, a historic landmark that dates back to the 1800s. This charming restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and a menu featuring classic American cuisine with a modern twist. Start your meal with their famous onion rings, perfectly crispy and served with a zesty chipotle sauce. For the main course, savor their succulent grilled salmon, served with seasonal vegetables and creamy mashed potatoes.
Evening Brewery Tour at Rivertown Brewery and Barrel House
End your day with a visit to Rivertown Brewery and Barrel House, a local craft brewery known for its exceptional beers and inviting taproom. Take a guided tour of the brewery to learn about the brewing process and sample a variety of their handcrafted brews. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, Rivertown offers something for every beer enthusiast. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the lively atmosphere as you savor the flavors of Franklin.
Day 3: Unwind, Shop, and Delight in Culinary Delights
Brunch at The Garden Grille
Begin your final day in Franklin with a delightful brunch at The Garden Grille, a charming eatery located inside the Holiday Inn. Indulge in their mouthwatering Belgian waffles, topped with fresh berries and drizzled with maple syrup. If you prefer a savory option, try their eggs Benedict, featuring perfectly poached eggs served on an English muffin with Canadian bacon, hollandaise sauce, and a side of crispy hash browns.
Retail Therapy at Franklin Square Antiques Mall
After brunch, satisfy your shopping cravings at Franklin Square Antiques Mall, a treasure trove of unique and vintage items. This spacious mall houses numerous booths offering a wide range of antique furniture, collectibles, jewelry, and decorative items. Whether you’re searching for a special memento or simply enjoy browsing through intriguing finds, this antique mall is sure to captivate your imagination.
Lunch at The Murphy Theatre Café
For a delightful lunch experience, head to The Murphy Theatre Café, located adjacent to the historic Murphy Theatre. This charming café offers a cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and a menu featuring delicious sandwiches, salads, and homemade desserts. Treat yourself to their signature Murphy Club sandwich, a mouthwatering combination of roasted turkey, ham, bacon, and Swiss cheese, served with a side of crispy fries.
Explore Franklin’s Murals and Sculptures
Take a leisurely stroll through downtown Franklin to discover the city’s vibrant murals and captivating sculptures. Admire the intricate artwork that decorates the sides of buildings, highlighting the city’s history and culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a photo with the iconic bronze statue of Benjamin Franklin, located in the heart of downtown. These artistic expressions truly enhance the charm and character of Franklin.
Dinner at the Franklin House
Conclude your weekend getaway with a memorable dinner at the Franklin House, a historic restaurant offering a cozy and intimate dining experience. Known for its elegant ambiance and exceptional cuisine, the Franklin House is the perfect place to savor a romantic dinner with friends. Indulge in their mouthwatering filet mignon, perfectly cooked to your liking and served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
Evening at JD Legends Entertainment Complex
Wrap up your trip by spending a relaxing evening at JD Legends Entertainment Complex. Enjoy a friendly game of bowling, challenge your friends to a round of billiards, or simply unwind with a refreshing drink at the sports bar. With its lively atmosphere and wide range of entertainment options, JD Legends is the ideal place to reminisce about your unforgettable weekend in Franklin.
As you bid farewell to Franklin, Ohio, you’ll carry with you cherished memories of its rich history, delightful dining experiences, and the warmth of its small-town charm. This captivating destination is sure to leave a lasting impression on you and your friends, urging you to return and explore even more of what Franklin has to offer. Safe travels and happy adventures!