Experience Franklin NC

09/03/2026

A world-class French bistro surprises diners right next to a gas station, proving gourmet food can thrive in unexpected places. Link in comments to find out more. ⬇️

08/30/2026

Up for a challenge that’s more? 🎆More than a beautiful hike? More than a stroll to an amazing waterfall? 🥾Or, would you enjoy celebrating with athletes who finish an incredible race with a joyful, music-& food-filled party? 🎶What if you could cheer on the runners from the awe-inspiring top of Wayah Bald? How about all the above? Then the Outdoor 76 Naturalist is for you.

08/28/2026

Happy 828 Day! 🏔️💚

There’s no place quite like the 828—and we’re pretty partial to our little corner of it here in Franklin, NC.

From mountain views and rushing waterfalls to scenic drives, outdoor adventures and the first hints of fall just around the corner, there are plenty of reasons to celebrate the place we call home.

Here’s to the mountains, the people and everything that makes Western North Carolina special.

Happy 828 Day from Franklin! 🍂⛰️

08/20/2026

Time to show some Mountain Pride!
When you think of adventure towns, YOU KNOW IT’S ONE OF THESE! And if you don’t know, come find out!

Lake Junaluska, and Franklin Nominated for Best Small Adventure Town.

Bryson City, Sylva, Robbinsville, and Cherokee for Nominated for Best Tiny Adventure Town.
Your vote makes a difference, so which town gets your vote?! VOTE: https://www.blueridgeoutdoors.com/toptowns/

cast your vote!

08/18/2026

08/12/2026

You might know Franklin, NC as the “Gem Capital of the World,” but with 4 museums on one block, plus a Women’s History Trail - it might just be the museum capital of Main Street America. 🏛️Ad

Round off your small town, mountain adventure with a day of storytelling (plus maybe some shopping…and GREAT food) on one of Western NC’s coziest Main Streets.

Regular hours:
Macon County Historical Museum: M, T, Th, F, S - 9:30-4
Gem & Mineral Museum: Tues-Sat, 12-4
Scottish Tartans Museum: Mon-Sat, 10-5 (museum admission $4-8, but visit the gift shop and do surname search for free!)
Ruby City: Tues-Sat, 10-5

08/10/2026

We definitely identify with Wanderlust Storytellers Family Travel Blog and love their take on our authentic, approachable, & affordable Town of Franklin.
Visit Smokies Experience Franklin NC

Discover 12 beautiful and affordable US towns near stunning national forests, perfect for anyone dreaming of a quieter, nature-filled lifestyle.

08/08/2026

Thank you for WLOS ABC 13 for this amazing piece on America's only The Scottish Tartans Museum and Heritage Center, Inc. .

The Scots have long been known for their strong sense of independence and enduring traditions. In western North Carolina, that heritage is deeply woven.

07/30/2026

Thanks to Ingles Markets for the great show highlighting our wonderful town. Visit Smokies The Scottish Tartans Museum and Heritage Center, Inc. Experience Franklin NC Franklin Downtown Merchants Association

Today we’re in Western North Carolina visiting a small town with a ...