Franklin: Haunted History & Crime Walking Tour

If you’re visiting Franklin, Tennessee, and are curious about its darker, more mysterious side, then the Haunted History & Crime Walking Tour offered by Franklin Walking Tours might just be your perfect evening adventure. This 90-minute stroll through Franklin’s historic district promises an engaging mix of ghost stories, crime legends, and glimpses into the city’s turbulent past.

What makes this tour stand out are two key aspects. First, the stories are delivered by guides who are clearly passionate and knowledgeable—one reviewer specifically praised Nola’s presentation as “great” and “wonderfully” delivered. Second, the tour’s focus on authentic, local stories, combined with visits to haunted buildings like Cherry Manor, makes for a genuinely immersive experience.

However, a possible consideration is that the tour is outdoors, and since it takes place in the evening, you’ll want to come prepared with comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and perhaps a camera to capture the spooky sights.

This tour is ideal for those who love history with a twist—history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, or anyone interested in Franklin’s less-known stories. It’s a great fit for adults and older teens who enjoy storytelling, a touch of the supernatural, and learning about a city’s haunted past without entering any buildings.

Key Points

• Authentic stories delivered by knowledgeable guides bring Franklin’s haunted history alive.
• The visit to Cherry Manor offers a peak into one of the most active haunted locations.
• The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable evening activity.
• It’s small group (limited to 2 participants), which means a more intimate experience.
• The experience is outdoor and walking-based, so dress accordingly.
• Cost is $35 per person, offering a solid value for a guided storytelling experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Haunted Franklin Tour

An Engaging Introduction to Franklin’s Darker Side

We often think of historic towns as places of beauty and charm, but Franklin has a side that whispers of secrets and stories best told after dark. This walking tour aims to reveal some of those tales—stories of ghost sightings, crime, and Civil War echoes—that have persisted through generations. Though we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews suggest it’s an experience that combines storytelling with a real sense of place.

What You Can Expect: A 90-Minute Walk Through History

The tour begins in Franklin’s historic district, a charming area with picturesque streets and old buildings that set the perfect backdrop for ghostly tales. Over the course of 90 minutes, your guide will lead you from site to site, sharing stories ranging from mischievous ghost sightings to serious crimes like murder and bank fraud.

Stories That Stick

Guides highlight stories of Civil War soldiers’ echoes, a jilted bride, a scandalous socialite, and even a suspected spy from the 1860s. This mix of tales keeps the experience lively and varied, appealing to those with a penchant for history and the supernatural alike.

Haunted Buildings

A highlight is Cherry Manor, known as the most active haunted building on the tour. Visitors are told about paranormal activity and hear accounts of unexplained phenomena. The fact that the tour includes photos of haunted buildings—though not entering any—adds to the intrigue.

Crime and Mystery from Franklin’s Early Days

The tour doesn’t shy away from the city’s more crime-ridden past. You’ll hear about murder, bank fraud, prostitution, and Prohibition-era offenses—stories that help paint a full picture of Franklin’s early days. These tales put the town’s history into context, showing how its past still lingers in the atmosphere.

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Why the Stories Matter

These stories serve as a reminder that historic towns are layered with histories both celebrated and dark. They provide authentic insights into Franklin’s complex identity—a city that has seen both civil strife and civilized charm. The stories also help visitors appreciate the city’s architecture and streets in a new light, knowing what once happened there.

The Experience: Practical Details

The tour is outdoor and walking-based, so comfortable shoes are a must—think sneakers or walking shoes. It runs in the evening, typically around sunset or after, enhancing the spooky vibe. The small group size (limit of 2 participants) ensures a personal experience, but it also means booking in advance is wise.

The price of $35 offers good value for an engaging, guided storytelling session. It includes stories of paranormal activity and crime, plus a visit to Cherry Manor—a highlight for many. Since no entry to buildings is involved, the focus stays on storytelling and outdoor sights.

What Past Participants Say

The only review available gives this tour a full 5-star rating, with praise for the knowledgeable guides who clearly know the history and stories inside out. One reviewer, Lisa, noted that her guide “Nola was great—clearly very knowledgeable” and that she enjoyed it so much she planned to return for a Halloween visit. Such feedback underscores that the guides are a major part of what makes this tour memorable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history lovers, ghost story enthusiasts, and those who enjoy a bit of spooky fun mixed with cultural insights. It suits adults and older teens better—particularly those interested in Civil War history or paranormal tales. It’s not designed for children under 10, nor for anyone looking for a tour inside buildings, as it’s fully outdoors.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $35, this tour offers a rich, personal storytelling experience that goes beyond just reading plaques or wandering alone. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge make the stories come alive, and the visit to Cherry Manor provides a tangible connection to Franklin’s haunted reputation.

While it’s a short tour, the quality of stories and the intimate group setting create a memorable evening. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy history with a supernatural twist and want to experience Franklin’s darker side without the crowds or the expense of a larger tour.

This tour is a great way to spend an evening in Franklin, combining entertainment, history, and a touch of the spooky—perfect for those seeking an authentic, slightly eerie adventure in this historic Tennessee town.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it an ideal evening activity that won’t overextend your schedule.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for those over 10 years old, as the stories may be too intense for younger children.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential since it’s a walking tour. Warm clothing is advisable if you’re touring in cooler months or evenings.

Can I record the stories?
Video and audio recording are not permitted, likely to respect the storytelling and preserve the experience for all guests.

Is it accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the stories.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, as the tour is limited to small groups (up to 2 participants), reservations are recommended. You can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind if your plans change.

Does the tour include entrance to any buildings?
No, this is an outdoor walking tour, and no historic buildings are entered. The focus is on storytelling and visiting the most haunted sites.

What makes Cherry Manor special?
Cherry Manor is known as the most active haunted building on the tour, with stories of paranormal activity that add a tangible element to the experience.

To sum it up, the Franklin Haunted History & Crime Walking Tour offers a compelling mix of history, ghost stories, and local legends—delivered by guides who truly know their stuff. It’s a perfect choice for travelers looking to experience Franklin’s spooky side in an authentic, intimate setting. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, this tour provides a memorable way to spend an evening exploring the haunted corners of this historic town.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby