Nestled in the heart of Tennessee, Franklin offers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s rich African American history. The United Street Tours’ African American History Walking Tour guides visitors through the city’s pivotal landmarks, shedding light on the stories of influential leaders and the struggles of the enslaved. From the Civil Rights Movement to the legacies of Black trailblazers, this 90-minute experience promises an enlightening and accessible journey into Franklin’s often-overlooked past. Those seeking to uncover the deeper narratives that shaped this community won’t want to miss…
Key Points

- United Street Tours offers a 90-minute African American History Walking Tour in Franklin, Tennessee, exploring the city’s rich Black heritage.
- The tour departs from and returns to the Franklin Visitor Center, with wheelchair-accessible surfaces and proximity to public transportation.
- Highlights include visiting historic landmarks related to the Civil Rights Movement and uncovering stories of prominent Black leaders and entrepreneurs.
- The tour provides insights into the struggles and triumphs of enslaved individuals and their descendants, showcasing the integral role of the African American experience in Franklin’s history.
- Booking and cancellation policies offer flexibility, with confirmation received within 48 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
Overview of the Tour
The African American History Walking Tour in Franklin, Tennessee, is a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the rich cultural heritage of the local African American community.
The African American History Walking Tour in Franklin, Tennessee, is a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the local African American community.
Offered by United Street Tours, this 90-minute walking tour takes participants through the historic downtown area, highlighting significant sites and sharing the stories of African Americans who’ve shaped the community.
Priced at $197 per person, the tour accommodates up to 30 travelers and departs from the Franklin Visitor Center.
With its wheelchair-accessible surfaces and proximity to public transportation, the tour is designed to be inclusive and accessible to all.
Looking for more options in Franklin? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Meeting Point and Accessibility
Visitors meet for the African American History Walking Tour at the Franklin Visitor Center, located at 400 Main St #130, Franklin, TN 37064.
The tour ends back at the same meeting point. This tour is accessible for various needs:
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Wheelchair accessible
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Stroller accessible
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Service animals allowed
The tour is also near public transportation, and the surfaces are wheelchair accessible.
Guests should have a moderate physical fitness level to participate in this walking tour.
Historical Significance of Franklin, TN
Franklin, Tennessee has a rich and significant African American history that’s woven throughout the city’s past.
The town was a major site of the Civil War, with the Battle of Franklin taking place in 1864. Many enslaved people escaped to Union lines during this time.
After the war, Franklin saw a growing black community and the hotel of institutions like the Franklin Normal and Industrial School.
After the Civil War, Franklin witnessed the rise of a thriving African American community and the founding of institutions like the Franklin Normal and Industrial School.
Today, the city honors this legacy through historic sites and community events, ensuring the African American experience remains an integral part of Franklin’s story.
Highlights of the African American History Tour
The African American History Walking Tour in Franklin offers a compelling exploration of the city’s rich and often overlooked Black heritage.
The tour highlights several key sites and narratives, providing a deeper understanding of the experiences and contributions of the local African American community.
Participants can expect to:
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Visit historic landmarks that played pivotal roles in the Civil Rights Movement, such as the former Colored Methodist Episcopal Church and the Franklin Battlefield.
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Uncover the stories of prominent Black leaders and entrepreneurs who shaped the community over the decades.
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Gain insights into the struggles and triumphs of enslaved individuals and their descendants in the region.
Tour Duration and Physical Requirements
Although the African American History Walking Tour covers a significant amount of ground, the duration is approximately 2 hours. The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, as you will be on their feet for the duration of the experience.
| Physical Requirement | Description |
| — | — |
| Walking | Guests can expect to walk approximately 1.5 miles at a leisurely pace. |
| Accessibility | The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome. |
| Terrain | The surfaces are wheelchair accessible, with a mix of paved paths and some uneven ground. |
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Travelers can receive a confirmation within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, giving guests flexibility in their plans. To reserve the tour, travelers can pay later, making it convenient to secure their spot.
The booking process includes:
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Confirming availability and selecting the preferred date.
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Providing necessary information and making the reservation.
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Receiving the confirmation and any additional details about the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the duration of the African American History Walking Tour? The walking tour lasts approximately 2 hours. It covers key sites and landmarks related to African American history in Franklin, Tennessee.
The African American History Walking Tour in Franklin, Tennessee lasts approximately 2 hours and covers key historical sites and landmarks.
Can children attend the tour? Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages.
Is the tour always held in English? No, the tour can be conducted in other languages upon request, subject to availability of multilingual tour guides.
Are there any discounts available? Yes, discounted rates may be offered for groups, seniors, students, and military personnel. Visitors are advised to inquire about any applicable discounts when making their booking.
The Sum Up
This African American history walking tour in Franklin, Tennessee, provides an insightful and accessible exploration of the city’s significant Black heritage. Travelers can explore the stories of influential leaders, the struggles of enslaved individuals, and the pivotal role of the Civil Rights Movement. By highlighting often-overlooked aspects of Franklin’s past, the tour offers a valuable opportunity to connect with and learn about the lasting legacy of the African American community.
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