Franklin, Tennessee, offers more than just charming streets and historic sites. It’s a place where adventure, history, and local flavor come together in a variety of tours suited for every interest. Whether you’re craving an adrenaline rush on rugged trails or a relaxing afternoon sampling local wines, Franklin’s tour options deliver authentic experiences with a personal touch. The 4 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience is a particular favorite, thanks to its combination of scenic landscapes, creek crossings, and expert guides. We love it because it puts you right in the middle of Middle Tennessee’s wild side, offering a memorable half-day adventure that’s perfect for families and outdoor lovers alike.
If you’re interested in exploring the region in a more relaxed way, the Franklin Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour is a charming option. It lets you discover Franklin’s historic sites at your own pace, all while enjoying a narrated ride in a vintage trolley. For a full-day experience that combines scenic drives with a taste of local wine culture, the 4 Hour Can-Am Experience to Hampshire Wineries offers a fun, off-road journey through vineyards and countryside. Whatever your style, Franklin’s tour lineup offers genuine, memorable ways to explore.
1. 4 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience
At number 1 on our list, the 4 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience is a top pick for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. For $255 per person, you’ll spend roughly four hours exploring the rugged terrain of Williamsport in a side-by-side (SXS) vehicle. This tour is particularly appealing because it combines adventure with scenic beauty—think dirt roads, shallow creek crossings, waterfalls, ghost towns, and historic stores. The small group setting ensures personalized attention, and all safety equipment and instructions are provided, making it suitable even for those new to off-road riding.
Guests consistently praise guides like Kevin for their enthusiasm and knowledge, with reviews highlighting the “best four hours of the day” and calling it “honestly one of the best experiences I have ever done.” What sets this tour apart is the mix of bumpy paths, water crossings, and the chance to see caves and waterfalls up close. It’s perfect for families, couples, or friends wanting an active, outdoor adventure in Tennessee’s wild backcountry. The only downside might be the dust—so bring a gaiter if you’re sensitive to dirt. Overall, it’s an exciting, well-organized ride that offers great value for those seeking a half-day outdoor thrill.
Bottom Line: An exhilarating trip through Tennessee’s scenic backcountry, ideal for adventure lovers ready to get their hands dirty.
2. 3 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience
At number 2, the 3 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience offers a slightly shorter but equally engaging ride for $229 per person. This guided tour takes you along the backroads of Middle Tennessee, crossing creeks, visiting waterfalls, and passing through ghost towns and historic sites. It’s a great option if you want a taste of the rugged outdoors but don’t have as much time.
Guests rave about the “beautiful scenery and water,” and mention their guide Matt as knowledgeable and funny. The highlight here is the stop for creek crossings and waterfalls, which provide plenty of photo opportunities. This tour is perfect for travelers who want an authentic off-road experience without committing to a full day. It’s suitable for all ages and interests, with the emphasis on exploring the region’s natural beauty and history. The key to this tour’s appeal is the balance of adventure and scenery, making it a solid choice for a half-day escape.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, scenic tour that’s perfect if you want to experience Tennessee’s outdoors without a long day out.
3. 4 Hour Can-Am Experience to Hampshire Wineries
Number 3 on our list, the 4 Hour Can-Am Experience to Hampshire Wineries pairs Tennessee’s rugged countryside with visits to local wine producers. For $255 per person, this tour combines an off-road adventure with tastings at three wineries: Amber Falls, Keg Springs, and Natchez Hills, depending on time and availability. The ride offers a fun, open-air perspective on the region’s backroads, crossing rugged terrain and enjoying scenic vistas.
Guests love that it’s a more intimate way to explore the area, with safety equipment and instruction included. The itinerary includes time at Amber Falls Winery & Cellars, where you can sample wines and enjoy live music or food trucks in summer. The opportunity to visit Keg Springs Winery, if open, adds to the variety. Reviewers praise guides like Matt and note the fun ride and the chance to taste local wines—making it a hit for wine lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. It’s a more leisurely pace, perfect for those who want to combine scenic driving with a taste of Hampshire’s wine scene.
Bottom Line: A delightful mix of outdoor adventure and wine tasting, ideal for couples or groups who want a relaxed, fun day out.
4. VIP 8 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience
Our number 4 pick, the VIP 8 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience, is the ultimate full-day adventure for $510 per person. Limited to just four participants, this tour offers a personalized, immersive exploration of Tennessee’s backcountry. You’ll cross waterfalls, rivers, and venture into more remote areas, with options to drive or ride along depending on your preference.
Starting early, the tour includes a stop for lunch at a country store (additional expenses apply) and provides helmets and goggles for safety. Guests rave about the friendly, welcoming atmosphere created by guide Kevin, with reviews calling it “the best experience ever.” The eight-hour duration means you get plenty of time to see off-the-beaten-path sights and enjoy the landscape at a relaxed pace. This tour is suited for serious outdoor fans seeking a private, tailored experience with high-end comfort. A potential drawback is the higher price point, but many consider it worth the investment for a day of exclusive adventure.
Bottom Line: A premium, private experience for those wanting a full day of Tennessee wilderness with personalized attention.
5. Franklin Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour with Live Narration
Number 5 on our list is the Franklin Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour. This $39 tour lasts about seven hours and features a vintage trolley with live narration, allowing you to explore Franklin’s historic points at your own pace. With five stops—including the Downtown Franklin / Visitor Center, Moore Morris History & Culture Center, and Carter House & Lotz House—it’s a flexible way to see the city’s highlights.
Reviewers appreciate the “fantastic” tour guide and the ease of hopping on and off at points of interest. It’s perfect for history buffs or first-time visitors who want a relaxed overview of Franklin’s story and charm. The tour’s value is excellent, offering a full day of sightseeing for a reasonable price. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who prefer a leisurely pace and want to learn local history through engaging narration.
Bottom Line: An easy, informative way to see Franklin’s must-see historic sites with minimal effort.
6. Jack Daniels Smooth Distillery Tours, Shopping, and Barbecue
Number 6, the Jack Daniels Tour, blends distillery history with local shopping and food. For around $175, this six-hour tour includes a visit to the Jack Daniels distillery, where visitors get a free taste of their famous whiskey. The tour also takes you to Lynchburg’s town square, where you can browse retail shops and enjoy a meal at Miss Mary Bobo’s Restaurant, famous for its Southern cuisine.
Guests highlight the casual atmosphere and the chance to purchase souvenirs like whiskey barrels or Jack Daniels apparel. The Lynchburg Hardware store offers a variety of branded merchandise and whiskey-related gifts. The tour is best for those curious about whiskey production or wanting a relaxed day with sightseeing and shopping. While the reviews note the experience is enjoyable, they also mention that lunch and entry fees aren’t included, so budget accordingly.
Bottom Line: A fun, laid-back experience combining distillery insights, shopping, and Southern-style barbecue.
$175.00 per person
7. Franklin Fiasco Scavenger Hunt
Our number 7, the Franklin Fiasco Scavenger Hunt, offers a different kind of adventure. For $29 per person, this two-hour interactive experience challenges you to solve clues and discover hidden parts of Franklin with the help of a live, remote host. This is perfect for groups who enjoy puzzles, social challenges, and a bit of playful exploration. The hunt combines elements of tour, detective work, and social fun, making it appealing for families, friends, or team-building groups.
While it’s the shortest tour on our list, reviewers mention that it’s “a unique, immersive experience,” though one review calls it “a little bit of a mixed bag.” It’s best suited for those looking for entertainment with a twist and who enjoy interactive activities. Make sure to book early, as spots can fill quickly, and remember that it’s an active, puzzle-solving outing rather than a traditional sightseeing tour.
Bottom Line: A playful, engaging activity for puzzle lovers and groups seeking a fun, different way to explore Franklin.
$29.00 per person
8. Half-Day Private Downtown Nashville Build-Your-Own Tour
Finally, the Half-Day Private Downtown Nashville Build-Your-Own Tour offers a customizable four-hour experience for up to six people at $550 per group. You decide what to see, from the famous Lower Broadway honky tonks to East Nashville’s antiques and craft breweries. This private tour is ideal for groups who want control over their itinerary and prefer a personalized experience.
You can choose to explore historic sites like the Carter House, enjoy local food at the Franklin Farmers Market, or sample Nashville’s renowned hot chicken at Bolton’s. Reviewers appreciate the flexibility, noting it’s perfect for tailoring the trip to your interests. The main advantage is the private, intimate setting, but it does require planning ahead to choose your stops. It’s best for travelers who want a bespoke experience and are comfortable making on-the-fly decisions.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for groups wanting to craft their own Nashville adventure with a private guide.
$550.00 per group (up to 6)
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your ideal Franklin tour, consider your interests, budget, and how much time you have. If you want a high-energy outdoor adventure, the 4 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience or the VIP 8 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience are top options. For a relaxing cultural experience, the Hop-On Hop-Off Tour provides flexibility and insights into Franklin’s history.
Wine lovers should look at the Can-Am Wineries Tour, while those interested in local spirits and shopping might prefer the Jack Daniels Tour. For interactive fun, the Franklin Fiasco Scavenger Hunt offers a playful challenge.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours in peak seasons. Think about your pace—whether you want a half-day adventure, a full-day immersion, or a private custom experience—and match that with your interests.
In summary, Franklin’s diverse array of tours means there’s something for all—from adrenaline-fueled off-road rides to leisurely winery visits or historic city explorations. For outdoor enthusiasts, the 4 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience stands out, offering a rugged, scenic adventure. History buffs and culture seekers might favor the Hop-On Hop-Off Tour, while groups wanting a personalized day can opt for the Build-Your-Own Nashville Tour. No matter your style, Franklin’s tour options promise genuine experiences worth exploring—and booking early will always guarantee a spot.