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#EddieBauerPartner Can’t go on an outdoor advent #EddieBauerPartner Can’t go on an outdoor adventure without packing some of @eddiebauer’s warm weather apparel. It has been perfect for our spring and summer outdoor adventures from hiking to kayaking and all the other ways we’ve been sending time outside. Where will you #LiveYourAdventure? 

#EBContributor
Since IG hates on photos gotta get them in how I c Since IG hates on photos gotta get them in how I can! Honestly sunset in the lavender fields is everything, probably one of the most beautiful sunsets I’ve ever witnessed. I don’t have much information to give today I really just wanted to share these photos 😬.

Check out my last 3 reels with @oneikatraveller for information on experiencing lavender season in Provence, France. These photos are from a lavender field in Valensole.

P.S. the skirt is from Amazon and they have multiple colors!

#valensole #valensoleprovence #lavenderfields
Things to do in Provence, France 🇫🇷 besides Things to do in Provence, France 🇫🇷 besides the lavender fields (save + share this post):

🇫🇷Go village hopping and take in the small towns. The first clip of this video was shot in the village of Roussillon and we also visited nearby Gordes.
🇫🇷Explore the ancient town of Saint Paul de Vence
🇫🇷Hike the beautiful Calanques de Cassis
🇫🇷Relax at the beaches of Grande Plage of La Ciotat and the Grande Mer beach of Cassis
🇫🇷Visit Gorges du Verdon, a gorgeous must see lake
🇫🇷Go wine tasting at one of the vineyards like Les Vignerons du Mont Saint-Victoire. Provence is known for their Rosé but you can also taste sweet and spicy wines.
🇫🇷Explore a multitude of ancient ruins, including Roman amphitheaters.
🇫🇷Take a tour of one of traditional perfume factories, Parfumerie Fragonard, Molinard or Parfumerie Galimard and do a workshop where you make your own perfume
🇫🇷Visit the Pope's Palace in Avignon
🇫🇷As you’ll most likely fly into Marseille don’t forget to leave time to explore this city as well, especially the port.

Have you been to Provence? What did you enjoy about the region?

Follow @thetravelingchild and @oneikatraveller for more tips.

#provence #blacktravelfeed
Everything you need to know about visiting the Lav Everything you need to know about visiting the Lavender fields in Provence, France (save + share this post):

Lavender season varies each year but falls between June and August.

Provence is the region but there are various cities with fields. Valensole is the most popular and where the fields we visited were located but there are also fields in Sault, Manosque and Luberon. The time frame that the lavender blooms is different in each city. Our visit was July 3-5th but the bloom and harvest time could change next year.

The best airport to fly into is Marseille. Airlines that fly to Marseille from the US are Air France, British Airways, Swiss, Royal Air Maroc, Iberia, Brussels Airlines, ITA Airways, Lufthansa and TAP Portugal. If you’re already in Europe you can also fly Pegasus, Ryanair, Tunisair, Aeroflot, Ethiopian, Easyjet, Vueling, Eurowings and Air Algerie. 

If you’re visiting from Paris you can take the train to Marseille! 

From Marsielle you will need to take the train or bus to Valensole or Manosque as your home base. As you’ll 100% need a car to get around to all the Lavender fields you can also rent a car from Marseille and drive as finding a rental car in the smaller towns is more difficult. 

What questions do you have about the lavender fields or Provence?

Follow @oneikatraveller and @thetravelingchild for more travel tips.

#provencefrance #lavenderfields #girlstrips
My top 5 favorite international destinations I’v My top 5 favorite international destinations I’ve visited!

1. Botswana- I did an exchange program here where I lived with a family in the village of Oodi right outside Gaborone one summer in high school. It completely changed the way I view travel. Besides getting to learn so much of the countries culture from my host family to learning a bit of Setswana to camping in the Okavango Delta it will always be one of my favorite trips.

2. Turkey- from the people to the food to the landscape to the sea it was everything. I visited Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya and Izmir and the country has so much to offer with varying landscapes. 

3. Rio de Janeiro- We loved our family trip to Brazil, the food, the people, the vibrance of Rio was everything. So many beautiful hikes, learning how to dance Samba, learning how to make Moqueca, going to a futbol match in Maracana Stadium, wow the energy!! Oh and the nightlife was 🔥. Can’t wait to return and explore more of the country.

4. Kenya- This country has so much to offer. We visited Amboseli National Park, got to do a walking safari amongst zebras and giraffes in Lake Naivasha and even ran into a hippo 😅. We visited a Maasai Tribe who gave us such a warm welcome inviting us into their homes, teaching the girls how to make fire from scratch and we even say 5 cheetah take down a topi, seeing a live kill was insane! Ended the trip relaxing on Diani Beach swimming in the stunning Indian Ocean.

5. Madeira, Portugal- the landscape on this island is insane. Exploring I often felt like I was in 20 different places, like how is all in one island? Loved the hikes here, being above the clouds, seeing all the waterfalls, spotting dolphins in the ocean, and the food was so good! I also enjoyed Lisbon but Madeira was everything!

What have been your favorite international trips? What country is highest on your bucket list (doesn’t have to be from my list)?

Should I make a list for my favorite US destinations (they’ll probably surprise you).

#madeiraportugal #travelreels
Answering the most asked question on my vacuum sea Answering the most asked question on my vacuum sealed carry-on only reel (save + share this post). This is how my clothes look once I take them out of the bag. Do you think these are really wrinkled? They were vacuum sealed for roughly 22 hours.

If you’re going to visit more than one city the best way to pack these is to pack each bag per city. Then all your clothes for that one city are all together and you only have to open one bag at a time. Then reseal that one bag with all your dirty clothes before going to the next city and don’t worry about the other ones getting dirty or smelling! You can label each bag with a sticky note or tape with a marker to know what bag has what clothes.

The link to purchase the bags and hand pump is my bio.

#packingtips #packinghacks #traveltipsandtricks
#WBPartner The girls are so excited to watch the n #WBPartner The girls are so excited to watch the new @wbpictures DC League of Super Pets. To prepare for our trip to the theater to see it we did a fun activity of making our own super hero costumes for us and our very own super pets. 

Jordyn turns villains into ice cream and eats them, James turns villains into money and spends them and Kennedy shoots lighting with her eyeballs. 

If you or your child could have super powers what would you pick? @dcleagueofsuperpets #DCSuperPets

The Traveling Child

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Things to Do in Franklin, TN: The List You’ll Want to Read

December 3, 2020      Destinations, North America, Tennessee

This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more information. All opinions are my own.

We were lucky enough to take a four week road trip exploring five cities in Tennessee. The charm the entire state has is unmatched but Franklin definitely took the cake. It may be small but it’s mighty and filled with beauty and history. Here are all the things to do in Franklin, TN to plan the perfect weekend trip like we had! We did visit Franklin in October 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic so I’ll also cover safety precautions and you’ll notice lots of food in to go containers because we felt more comfortable dining that way.

This mural is located at 305 Sheldon Valley Dr., Nolensville, TN.

How to Get to Franklin, TN

As mentioned we were on a road trip so we drove into Franklin from Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge, TN (read that itinerary here) which took us four hours. However, if you’re flying the nearest airport is Nashville International Airport, just 30 minutes Northeast of Franklin. While downtown Franklin is walkable you’ll need a car to explore the rest of the city so be sure to rent a car when flying in. We’re a part of the Alamo Insiders rewards program and have rented from Alamo for years, we love the savings.

two parents with their two daughters and grandma sitting in the back of a black mini van getting ready for a road trip to franklin, tennessee

Things to Do in Franklin, TN Year Round

Some people take a day trip to Franklin, spend a weekend like we did or spend a week. No matter the length of your stay there are plenty of things to do in Franklin, TN to fill up your time.

Explore Downtown Franklin

Midnight Sun Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt is the perfect way to get to know a city. While we were visiting Franklin, TN with kids us adults had a great time doing this activity and would do it without the excuse of having children. We learned so much about the town through this 10 riddle hunt. There are 10 statues around town representing the legendary Tennessee Walking Horse, Midnight Sun, which you’ll head off to find after stopping by the visitors center to get the brochure with the scavenger hunt. If you answer all 10 riddles correctly you’ll get a prize when you return the brochure to the visitors center.

two young girls doing a scavenger hunt in franklin tennessee, holding up their completed paper

Franklin Theatre

The Franklin theatre was built in 1937 operating as a classic movie house until 2007 when it was renovated. Post renovation it’s the top 300-seat music venue in the world. When in town be sure to schedule a tour of the theater so you can learn more about this historical venue. Unfortunately we weren’t able to see inside since it was closed during our Covid-19 visit but that just gives us another reason to re-visit.

The Fuller Story

Franklin has a long history, one that isn’t the most positive. The public square on the roundabout in Downtown served as a market house used for the purchasing and selling of human beings. While a confederate statue remains, the square now also has five Fuller Story markers commemorating local African American history added in 2019.

Learn About the Civil War at Carnton

Franklin has a lot of Civil War history and the Battle of Franklin is infamous for being a short five hours but leading to 9,500 deaths. The home ended up serving as the largest field hospital for Confederate soldiers. You can now tour it and learn more about the battle, including seeing blood stains left in the building. 

Leiper’s Fork

About 20 minutes from downtown Franklin, TN is Leiper’s Fork. An unwritten rule of the village is that each place has a porch to sit and gather with or without a fire pit. The village is all about community so it’s a way for both residents and visitors to get to know each other. While in town you can eat at the village favorite Puckett’s Grocery. The locations stage has been blessed with performances by Winona Judd, Tanya Tucker, Rodney Crowell, Keb Mo, Jill Sobule, Phil Everly (The Everly Brothers), Don Schlitz, Casey Beathard, Phil O’Donnell and many more, you just never know who will be there!

You can also walk through the many shops, some which blend into the residential homes like Serenite Maison, Leiper’s Creek Gallery and David Arms Gallery.

Natchez Trace Parkway

If you didn’t explore Natchez Trace on your way into Leipers Fork from downtown Franklin be sure to take this scenic route on the way back. This historic forest trail covers 444 miles of road from Nashville, Tennessee to Natchez, Mississippi. The infamous bridge on the parkway is located in Franklin.

husband and wife embracing in front of natchez trace parkway bridge in Franklin, Tennessee

If you have time for pitstops check out Garrison Creek or hike the Highland Rim Trail by milepost 427. If horseback riding is more your speed there are plenty of stables in the area that will take you on trails like the Natchez Trace Scenic Trail starting at milepost 418. There are also picnic areas at Burns Branch at milepost 425.

Arrington Vineyards

If you’re like me you may not have known Tennessee had vineyards. Open Monday-Saturday 11am-8pm and Sunday 12pm-6pm, Arrington Vineyards, a bring your own food winery will have you feeling as if you’re in wine country. We secured a picnic table and then ordered our tasting flights along with one of their seasonal Frose’s. 

wine flight sitting on a wine barrel with a Frose at Arrignton Vineyards one of the most popular things to do in Franklin Tennessee

If you visit between May and October every Friday from 5-8pm (weather permitting) is Food Truck Fridays where there is live music plus multiple food trucks to get dinner from! Even if it’s not Food Truck Friday the vineyard offers cheese plates, sandwiches and desserts. 

a grandma enjoying arrington vineyards with granddaughter

Mistletoe Farm

Visiting Mistletoe Farm and getting a chance to interact with the alpacas was something we really wanted to do during our visit but unfortunately they were booked all the way up. During Covid they are only offering private visits with one group at a time, which is a great way to keep the community safe. It’s something we will definitely have to return to Franklin for!

Things to Do In Franklin, TN on Halloween

Franklin celebrates Halloween like no other place we’ve ever been. While I know West Main Street is shut down every year for trick or treating I’m not 100% sure on whether or not these other special Halloween events are yearly occurrences or were just for 2020. Either way each year the city goes all out and there are bound to be tons of activities in addition to trick or treating.

white house decorated for Halloween in the town of Franklin, Tenneessee

Halloween Story time at the Landmark Booksellers

Stop by for a special Halloween story time with sessions for kids 3-6 years old as well as a session for older kids. Check directly with the store for specific hours.

InstaBurst Photo Booth

Located in front of the Visitor Center from 10-5pm the operators were dressed up in costumes and giving away candy in addition to the cute Halloween photo props.

Trick or Treating on Main Street

One of the things to do in Franklin, TN the city is most well known for is Trick or Treating. The town and homes on Main Street go absolutely insane. We went to a home who turned their entire garage into a walk through Halloween house, homes that were shooting candy off the roof and more. I have no idea how we’ll ever top this experience, it was truly one for the books.

Where to Eat in Franklin, TN

One of my favorite parts of traveling through Tennessee is the food! We ate good in Franklin and I highly recommend checking out these restaurants when visiting Franklin.

Original Martin’s BBQ Joint

When you choose to eat somewhere more than once on a short visit you know the food is good. We had quite a few members of our community on Instagram recommend Martin’s and oh were they right! With locations now in Nashville, Virginia and more we were excited to be visiting the original location. Whether you get ribs or chicken from here you won’t be disappointed and the sides are just as good. They have two outdoor seating areas, one in the front of the restaurant and one in the back that is covered but open-air.

The Factory at Franklin

While the Factory at Franklin isn’t a restaurant itself it is a space with multiple food options. It’s a great place to go if everyone you’re with wants something different to eat. If you’re in the mood for tacos you can grab food from Mojo’s Tacos which has both indoor and outdoor seating. 

We decided to eat at Pinchy’s Lobster which had recently opened when we visited. They offer hot and cold lobster rolls and some with a Southern twist. Since they did not have outdoor seating we took our food to go but it was still good!

If you want something to satisfy your sweet tooth while here, you’ll be pleased to know the original Five Daughters Bakery is also located in The Factory at Franklin. They are famous for their 100-layer donut and yes it tastes as good as it sounds. They often sell out long before their official closing time so be sure to get here early!

Biscuit Love

You cannot visit Franklin and not experience Biscuit Love. Like many of the restaurants here it started as a food truck and moved its way up to a brick and mortar location. It’s been featured on the Food Network so don’t miss your opportunity to dine here! Everyone recommends the BoNuts and while they are good my personal favorite is the Lily, their french toast made from their famous biscuits. I’m pretty sure my mouth is still watering and it’s probably best I don’t have access to them everyday or I’d be in trouble! If you’re looking for a healthier option the winter veggie bowl is excellent!

two plates and a mug with french toast, biscuit sandwich and oatmeal

55 South

Looking for a unique take on Southern Food? Then 55 South, owned by chef Jason McConnel, is the place to eat. He owns a few restaurants in Franklin and 55 South did not disappoint. They typically offer outdoor dining but since we ate here on Halloween their outdoor section was closed so we ordered our food to go.

3 plates of food from Franklin, Tenneessee with tacos, mahi mahi, and wings

Tiny Little Donuts

When you arrive at an establishment 10 minutes before opening on a Sunday morning when it’s chilly outside and the parking lot is full with a line already formed you know you’re in for a treat. Tiny Little Donuts is run by a husband and wife in the cutest Airstream Trailer and well worth the wait. They sell donuts in “generous dozen” sizes meaning your box will have roughly 14-15 donuts with no specific amount guaranteed except it will definitely be more than 12. Only open until 1pm except for Monday’s when they’re closed you have to hurry to get these little pieces of heaven. Flavors offered include Classic Cinnamon Sugar, Timeless Glazed, Old School Powdered Sugar, Fresh Lemon Glaze, Special Dark Chocolate, Maple Glaze along with special seasonal options. Out of the three flavors we tried the classic cinnamon sugar was my favorite.

3 boxes of tiny donuts, cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar and glazed

Where to Stay in Franklin, TN

If you want to be close to the action, I recommend staying on Main Street like we did. You’ll be able to walk to everything in Downtown Franklin including multiple restaurants! For this trip we stayed in this Airbnb and you can check out the other listings available. If you’ve never signed up for Airbnb you can save $40 on your first booking by signing up here. Nervous about Airbnb? Read my tips to guarantee a great Airbnb experience.

While we enjoy the benefits of a vacation home for more space when traveling with the whole family we love Hilton. They recently opened the Harpeth Downtown Franklin, a part of Hilton’s Curio Collection in 2020. As Diamond members of the hotel brand we get a lot of perks like free upgrades, free breakfast and lounge access with lunch depending on the hotel along with free stays. We reached Diamond status with the help of our no-annual fee Hilton Honors American Express credit card. You can earn 80,000 points for signing up with my referral link which is enough points for 2-3 nights free depending on the Hilton hotel you book.

There are so many things to do in Franklin, TN. Whether you’re visiting on a day trip or staying for multiple days you’ll fall in love with this town. If you found this article please share it! Visiting other cities in Tennessee? Check out our itineraries for Nashville, a weekend in Memphis, Memphis with Kids, Chattanooga, and Gatlinburg.

The Traveling Child is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

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  1. dublaj says

    December 10, 2020 at 7:47 am

    Wonderful article! We are linking to this great content on our site. Keep up the great writing. Elberta Chase Krucik

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Hey, I’m Monet!

Hey, I’m Monet!

A full time working woman, wife and mama of two. I use every last one of my vacation days traveling with my kids, hubby, friends or solo. Join me as I share my travel experiences and tips to make travel affordable and easier with the little ones. You can read more about me here.

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