Using Digital Passports is an interesting way to explore the many historic, artistic and retail destinations in Franklin and Williamson County. They not only tell you where these places are located, but also give pertinent information about each one. And once you fill up your passport for a particular trail, you can receive a fun prize.
Introduced about four years ago, the digital program was influenced by how people prefer to access information. “Making mobile-friendly trails fulfills the ultimate goal of making it as easy as possible for people to find our incredible local businesses,” says Matthew Maxey, the director of public relations at Visit Franklin.
Signing up for Digital Passports is simple. “Whether you use one of the QR codes or go directly to our website, you'll first see several of the different passport options,” he says. “Just click the ones you’re interested in and you’ll be asked for your phone number or email. It will then send you a link, which you click and then start checking in at the locations. Users will also have the option to save it to their mobile device’s home screen.”
The number of trails has expanded over time, and here, Matthew helps us explore each one.
Masters & Makers
This is the oldest trail and it links up the winery, breweries, and whiskey distilleries around the county. People can meet the masters and the makers of their craft and take a tour to see them creating on site. If you're in a group, some may like whiskey, and some may like wine or beer. On this trail, everyone can enjoy the various flavors.
Craft Coffee Trail
This one links up many amazing local craft coffee spots. It gives people a guide where they can go around the county to find that great local cup from local roasters not only in downtown Franklin, but all over the county. Many locations also include exclusive discounts when you show your passport.
Murals of Williamson County
We have some incredible murals painted by talented artists across our county. On this trail, people will find a “Welcome to Franklin” script mural and a Franklin postcard, among others, downtown. Over in Nolensville, the “This Girl Can” mural was part of a statewide Walls for Women Project celebrating the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment’s ratification. There are also murals in Brentwood, Cool Springs, Fairview, and across the county, each with its own incredible story.
Historic Homes of Hincheyville
Hincheyville was Franklin's first residential addition, subdivided in 1819 outside the original town boundaries. On this self-guided walking tour, people will discover each home's history, observe various unique architectural styles, and take in the quaint Hincheyville neighborhood.
Sweet Treats Trail
This one is a similar concept as the coffee trail. There are many incredible bakeries and sweet shops located all across the county. Four years ago, the Travel Channel named Franklin one of the 10 best places in the world for people with a sweet tooth, and on this trail, people can explore why and use exclusive discounts and special offers from their passport.
Midnight Sun Scavenger Hunt
Midnight Sun was Franklin’s most famous Tennessee Walking Horse. This trail targets a younger audience – or those young at heart - and is a fun scavenger hunt around downtown Franklin. There are 10 questions that are mildly challenging but easy enough for younger kids to figure out, leading people to find miniature statues of Midnight Sun located throughout downtown.
Great American Main Street
This trail allows users to explore Franklin’s famous Main Street more in depth. It shares historical details about the architecture of the buildings, plus stories of the past and present occupants of the buildings. It also touches on the impact of the Civil War’s Battle of Franklin on Main Street then and through the modern day.
Haunts & Headstones
This trail guides users through Franklin’s history dating back to when the town was founded. It will take trail goers by some of Franklin’s haunted homes and historic cemeteries. Along the way, it’ll share tales of those who once lived there and the sightings of those that some have said still occupy those buildings.
To get started, go to VisitFranklin.com/digital-passports.