Franklin Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich town of Franklin in Massachusetts with our detailed travel guide. From natural wonders to outdoor adventures to exciting food and drink scene, find everything you need to know about this hidden gem.


Introduction to Franklin

Nestled in Bristol-Norfolk County in Eastern Massachusetts, Franklin is a charming town known for its scenic beauty, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. It boasts old-world charm infused with modern amenities, making it an excellent destination for a relaxing weekend getaway.

Named after Benjamin Franklin, this town has a rich history and a vibrant arts community and offers its visitors a plethora of exciting things to do. From museums and historical attractions to hiking/biking trails and natural wonders, this town has it all. Let’s explore the best places to visit in this hidden gem.

List of Places to Visit in Franklin

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Franklin Historical Museum: Delve into the town’s rich history and see the transition from its early farm heritage to the emergence of industrialization and transportation in the 19th century.
  • The Black Box: Enjoy a night of music, theatre, or dance in this state-of-the-art performing arts venue that hosts various shows and events throughout the year.
  • The John F. Kennedy Memorial: Take a stroll through a small park dedicated to the late president, which features a monument and a plaque honoring his legacy.

Natural Attractions of Franklin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wrentham State Forest: Explore this 1,012-acre forest for a scenic hike, picnic, or swimming in its pristine lake. The park offers a variety of activities, including fishing, hunting, boating, and mountain biking.
  • Crane Pond Wildlife Management Area: A haven for bird watchers, this 600-acre wildlife reserve offers stunning views of nature and the opportunity to see wild turkeys, deer, and other animals in their natural habitat.
  • Franklin Town Common: A central gathering spot, this charming park is perfect for picnicking, relaxing, or enjoying ice cream from a local shop.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Franklin

  • SNETT Trail: Hike or bike on a rail-trail that runs for miles through the town’s scenic landscapes and historic areas.
  • The Forge Park Trailhead: An excellent starting point for exploring the town’s various outdoor activities, this park offers a picnic area, restrooms, and plenty of parking.

Best Things to Do in Franklin: Activities and Tours

  • Fruitlands Museum: Explore the works of art, literature, and history of the region through exhibits, galleries, and special events at this museum.
  • Taste of Franklin: Sample local fare, craft beer, and wine while enjoying live music at this annual event in September.
  • Franklin Farmers Market: Buy fresh seasonal produce, flowers, and handmade goods at the market held in the town common every Friday afternoon.

Week-Long Itinerary for Franklin

Day Activity
Monday Visit Franklin Historical Museum and the John F. Kennedy Memorial
Tuesday Go hiking in Wrentham State Forest
Wednesday Take a scenic bike ride on SNETT Trail
Thursday Explore Franklin Farmers Market
Friday Enjoy a night of music or theater at The Black Box
Saturday Visit Fruitlands Museum
Sunday Take a relaxing picnic at Franklin Town Common

Food and Drink Scene of Franklin

Must-Try Dishes

  • Patriot’s Place Roast Beef Sandwich: This iconic sandwich is piled high with thin-sliced roast beef, crispy onion rings, and special sauce, signifying the town’s rich industrial history.
  • Velvet Moose’s Banana Bread Pudding: A dessert sensation that is made with fresh-baked banana bread, caramel sauce, and whipped cream – an absolute must-try for all the sweet tooths out there.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beers: Sample local brews from the town’s brewery, 7th Wave Brewing, featuring exciting flavors such as PB&J Porter and Red Tide IPA.
  • The Friends of Franklin Station: Try the signature coffee blend that is brewed by a local cafe and is available at the local gift shop.

Where to Stay in Franklin: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hilton Garden Inn Boston/Franklin: A modern property 3.5 miles from the town center, this hotel is perfect for business travelers or couples and families who want a comfortable and affordable stay.
  • The Millis House Bed & Breakfast: A quaint B&B in a historic, 19th-century property offers personalized service, home-cooked breakfast, and a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere.

What to Buy in Franklin: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Local art and crafts: Discover unique pieces of art, pottery, and other handmade crafts by local artists at the Franklin Art Center and the Franklin Cultural Council gallery.
  • Franklin Favorites Snack Packs: A box filled with Franklin’s favorite snacks consisting of delicious and unique artisan-made cookies, chocolates, granola, and local honey.

Local Culture and Customs of Franklin

Franklin is a friendly and welcoming town and prides itself on being a community-driven place. People here are renowned as hard-working, family-oriented people who come together to support one another and share special moments and always respect local traditions and heritage.

Best Time to Visit Franklin

The best time to visit Franklin is from May to September when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are at their peak.

Do’s and Don’ts of Franklin

Do:

  • Explore the scenic hiking and biking trails in Wrentham State Forest.
  • Visit the local Farmers Market for fresh local produce and homemade goods.
  • Check out local events, such as the Taste of Franklin and the Cultural Council Art and Craft Fair.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to carry a map if you are taking one of the hiking trails.
  • Don’t litter or harm the natural environment while you are out on the trails.
  • Don’t forget to taste local specialties like the Patriot’s Place Roast Beef Sandwich and Banana Bread Pudding.

Safety and Health

Safety in Franklin

Franklin is a safe town with very low crime rates, but visitors should always take necessary precautions, including locking doors and avoiding unlit areas at night.

Health in Franklin

Franklin has many health care facilities, including the highly-rated Milford Regional Medical Center and other medical clinics. It is recommended to carry travel insurance to cover any unforeseen medical situations.

Getting to Franklin: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Franklin

  • Boston Logan International Airport: 35 miles northeast of Franklin
  • T.F. Green Airport: 39 miles southwest of Franklin

Bus Stations Near Franklin

  • Franklin Bus Station
  • Dean College Bus Stop

Other Options

  • Private Car Service: Several car services, including Uber and Lyft, serve the area.
  • Train: Franklin train station stops on the MBTA commuter rail-line between Boston and Worcester, making it a convenient commuting option for those wishing to avoid traffic.

How to Get Around in Franklin

You can easily explore Franklin by renting a car, biking, or walking. To travel around the town, you can use the Franklin Regional Transit Authority buses, which run regularly to different locations.

Where to Go Next from Franklin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Boston: Experience the vibrant city life and rich history of Boston, only 40 miles away.
  • Cape Cod: Take a day trip to the beautiful beaches and charming towns of Cape Cod, located about 100 miles away.

Conclusion

Franklin offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural amenities, and small-town charm. With its numerous historical sites, scenic beauty and outdoor activities, it is a must-visit destination in Massachusetts. This comprehensive travel guide provides travelers with everything they need to know to make the most of their visit to this hidden gem.