Guide: Escape the city for a Leiper’s Fork getaway

Nestled near the top of the Natchez Trace Parkway and situated thirty miles south of Nashville is Leiper’s Fork, an unincorporated village in Williamson County.

What to know

This charming community features a scenic stretch along Old Hillsboro Road, where historic buildings, restaurants, antique shops, and art galleries welcome visitors from beyond its borders. After all, only a few hundred people call the area home.

If you’re looking for a getaway close to the city that’s steeped in history, you’ll find it here, as the entire Leiper’s Fork historic district is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.

Next up, let’s uncover the top spots to eat, shop, and explore this slice of Tennessee countryside. Pro tip: If visiting on a Saturday, don’t forget about this roundtrip shuttle from Franklin.

Eat and drink

Whether you’re craving comfort food or a caffeinated pick-me-up, this community has you covered.

• When it comes to food, Fox & Locke has it all — daily specials, weekend breakfast, and meat-and-three plates. Plus, don’t miss its famed Open Mic Night on Thursdays and ticketed events.
• The Country Boy Restaurant is open from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily, meaning you can start the day with biscuits and gravy or pancakes and return for a savory lunch.
• If you come across a converted tiny home with the aroma of fresh coffee wafting from the door, you’ve arrived at The RedByrd Coffee Shop. Try this: The Papa Byrd (blackberry latte) or the Mama Byrd (vanilla and lavender latte).
• Mobile coffee shop Hanks Coffee Station is parked outside Patina Home and Garden for post-shopping espresso and pastries.

Shop

From sweet treats to items for the home, you’ll find everything conveniently within walking distance.

• Step inside Bubble Joy, a candy wonderland with gourmet gumballs and sweets. Then, create your own craft soda or seltzer with a choice of syrups, popping pearl bubbles, and edible glitter at the Bubble Bar.
• Shop artisan products, including jewelry, original artwork, gift items, and more at Creekside Trading Company and The Copper Fox.
• Other shops to include on your itinerary: Patina Home and Garden (home goods and garden decor), Tennessee Turquoise Company (jewelry), Props (antiques and collectibles), and Moo Country (clothing and accessories).

Entertainment

Aside from food and shopping, make time for creekside tastings, a hidden speakeasy, and relaxing spa treatments.

• Experience Leiper’s Fork creekside at Wines in the Fork, with options for a tasting room experience or sips in the creek when weather permits.
• For a taste of history, visit Leiper’s Fork Distillery. The 24-person tour takes you through the production facility and features a whiskey tasting in a 200-year-old cabin.
• One of the newest (and most hidden) spots in Leiper’s Fork is The Tornado Room, a speakeasy-style space below The Country Boy Restaurant. It’s open Thursday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m.
• Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at The Spa at Leiper’s Fork, where you can unwind with a massage, manicure, and facial.
• If outdoor adventure is calling, travel ~3 miles to Wilkins Branch Mountain Bike Park, a hilly and wooded park just west of Leiper’s Fork. Trails are marked for beginner, intermediate, and expert skill levels.

Where to stay

• “Charming guesthouse with a pig” | 2 BD, 1 BA | ~$279/night | This one-level guesthouse has four beds and is situated on a farm, so be sure to say “hello” to Bagel the friendly pet pig and his barn cat buddy, Raven.
• “History meets luxury at this dreamy cottage” | 1 BD, 1 BA | ~$325/night | This historic cottage is perfect for guests searching for a creative getaway with access to a porch swing, full kitchen, and two Gibson guitars.
• “A breathtaking cottage in Leiper’s Fork”| 3 BD, 2 BA | ~$260/night | Enjoy cozy bedrooms, common rooms, and easy access to all Leiper’s Fork has to offer.