CMA Fest Escape: The Perfect Saturday Itinerary in Franklin + Leiper’s Fork

If the hustle of CMA Fest has you craving some peace and a slower pace, you’re not alone. Whether you're a local looking to dodge the downtown traffic or a visitor wanting to soak up some Tennessee charm without the chaos, we’ve got your perfect Saturday mapped out. Think good food, scenic strolls, local shopping, and live music—all without stepping foot in Nashville.

Here’s your full day guide to a calm (but still super fun) Saturday around Franklin and Leiper’s Fork:

Morning: Country-Fried and Unbothered

Breakfast at Country Boy Restaurant
Start your morning at one of the oldest running diners in the area - The Country Boy in Leiper’s Fork. It’s everything you want in a Southern breakfast: biscuits and gravy, crispy bacon, and eggs cooked just right. Come hungry and leave full, just like it should be.

Late Morning: Small Town Shopping

Stroll and Shop in Leiper’s Fork
After breakfast, take a slow walk through the heart of Leiper’s Fork. The shops here are anything but cookie-cutter. Expect vintage finds, curated home goods, local art, and maybe even a celeb sighting or two (but we won’t name names). Be sure to pop into Props and Leiper’s Creek Gallery for some beautifully unique pieces.

Midday: Burgers + Petting Zoo

Lunch at The Gourmet Guy Food Truck
Tucked away at Semler Cattle Company, The Gourmet Guy serves up one of the best burgers in Williamson County. Juicy, loaded, and paired with fries cooked in tallow - it’s the kind of lunch you’ll dream about later.

Farm Store at Semler Cattle Company
After you eat, check out the Semler Cattle Company farm store for some fresh meat and locally made goods. It’s kid friendly with the petting zoo, and adult friendly with a stocked bar. A fun, unexpected mix of farm life and good vibes.

Afternoon: Walk It Off + Wind Down

Coffee at RedByrd Coffee
Fuel up with a Le Peep Latte or MatchaByrd Latte at RedByrd Coffee. This cozy, roadside stop is everything you want from a small-town coffee shop - friendly and seriously good espresso.

Walk Along Natchez Trace Parkway
Once you’ve got your caffeine in hand, hop on the Natchez Trace for a scenic walk. The trails are peaceful, the views are stunning, and it’s the perfect way to walk off that amazing burger. Try the Timberland Park loop or the area near the iconic Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge for postcard-worthy moments.

Evening: Dinner, Dancing, and a Little Mystery

Dinner and Music at Fox & Locke
Head back into Leiper’s Fork for dinner at Fox & Locke, the crown jewel of this creative little town. Grab a table, order some Southern comfort classics (BBQ or fried catfish, anyone?), and enjoy the live music. It’s a local favorite for a reason - good vibes, great food, and even better talent on stage.

Nightcap at The Tornado Room
End the night with a little mystery at The Tornado Room, a hidden speakeasy tucked underneath The Country Boy. Sip a handcrafted cocktail and soak up the moody atmosphere—it’s the perfect way to close out a perfect day.

The Takeaway

You don’t have to leave Tennessee to get away from the noise. Franklin and Leiper’s Fork offer the ultimate CMA Fest escape—where your day moves at your pace, the food is unforgettable, and the music is just as good (minus the crowd).

So skip the traffic, lace up your walking shoes, and let this Saturday itinerary be your guide to a slower, sweeter kind of weekend.