Hotels in Franklin

Flowing Through Franklin: A Journey of Nature and Culture Awaits

Nestled in the heart of Virginia, Franklin is a charming small town that radiates southern hospitality and rich history. Explore the picturesque downtown, where historic buildings blend seamlessly with modern boutiques and eateries. The scenic Blackwater River offers serene kayaking and fishing experiences, while nearby parks invite leisurely strolls amidst nature's beauty. Don’t miss the Franklin History Museum, which brings the town’s past to life. With its welcoming atmosphere and unique local charm, Franklin is the perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. For the best hotel rates in Franklin, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Franklin

Some of the best places to stay in Franklin are Suffolk, Smithfield and Ahoskie. Suffolk, Smithfield, and Ahoskie offer travelers charming experiences with rich history and local culture. Suffolk boasts scenic parks and vibrant shops, while Smithfield is known for its historic downtown and culinary delights. Ahoskie features a welcoming small-town atmosphere. Hotel accommodations in these areas typically include options like Quality Inn and Fairfield Inn, often providing free breakfast and Wi-Fi. For first-time visitors, Smithfield is the best choice, providing a delightful mix of attractions and Southern hospitality. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Franklin:

1. SuffolkOpens in a new window: Suffolk is a charming destination perfect for family and outdoor experiences, featuring attractions like the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and Chesapeake Square Mall for shopping and entertainment. For comfortable stays, consider The Pinner HouseOpens in a new window, a romantic 4.5-star bed and breakfast offering luxurious spa services and packages. Another option is Delta Hotels by Marriott Chesapeake NorfolkOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel ideal for families and business travelers, providing adventure sports and recreation options nearby. The Founders Inn and Spa, Tapestry Collection by HiltonOpens in a new window is also a great choice, a 4.0-star hotel that welcomes pets and features a full spa, making it perfect for families and pet owners alike.
2. SmithfieldOpens in a new window: Known for its outdoor attractions, Smithfield offers family-friendly experiences like Busch Gardens Williamsburg and the Hampton Coliseum. Williamsburg Inn, an official Colonial Williamsburg HotelOpens in a new window is a historic 5.0-star hotel that combines business amenities with family-friendly services. Kingsmill ResortOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star beachfront hotel, provides adventure activities nearby, while DoubleTree by Hilton WilliamsburgOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star hotel, is located in the city center and features business facilities alongside adventure sports.
3. AhoskieOpens in a new window: Ahoskie is an outdoor lover's paradise, showcasing natural beauty at Historic Hope Plantation and Merchants Millpond State Park. For lodging, Ahoskie InnOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel offering dining options and various recreational activities nearby. Hampton Inn EdentonOpens in a new window, also a 2.5-star hotel, caters to business travelers and adventure seekers with modern amenities and proximity to outdoor activities. Lastly, Inner Banks InnOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star bed and breakfast, is pet-friendly and provides essential business services, making it a versatile choice for all types of travelers.

What to do in Franklin

Three days in Franklin offer a delightful escape into a picturesque landscape of rivers, lush forests, and serene parks. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, shopping, and various outdoor activities like boating and hiking, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and explorers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Franklin:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Franklin by visiting Rawls Museum Arts, where you can appreciate local and regional art exhibits. After immersing yourself in creativity, head to Boykin's Tavern, a historic site that offers insights into the area’s rich history. Conclude your day at the Nat Turner Uprising Site, where you can reflect on the significant events that shaped American history.
• Day 2: Begin your day at the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, a beautiful natural area perfect for wildlife watching and hiking. After exploring the refuge, make your way to Riddick's Folly House Museum, where you can learn about the fascinating history of the region through its preserved artifacts. End your day at the Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, where you can enjoy various performances or art exhibitions showcasing local talent.
• Day 3: Your final day starts at Lake Prince, a serene spot ideal for a morning stroll or a relaxing picnic by the water. Next, visit Windsor Castle Park, where you can take in the picturesque landscape and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Finally, explore Merchants Millpond State Park, a tranquil space perfect for hiking or canoeing, allowing you to revel in the natural beauty of Virginia.

5 tips to find a great Franklin hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Franklin is from October to December, when hotel rates are significantly lower. For those traveling on a budget, a stay of at least 2-3 days is perfect for discovering the key attractions, including the scenic river. This timeframe offers great value for money while allowing visitors to fully experience what Franklin has to offer.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for budget-friendly accommodations in Franklin, last-minute deals can be a great option. To uncover these offers on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you may discover affordable rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. You could also enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special last-minute promotions, helping you find the best options without missing any chances to save.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on hotel expenses in Franklin.
4. Consider your location: When booking your stay on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying closer to major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in neighborhoods that are a bit further out, while still keeping in mind the ease of getting to the places you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Franklin. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

Best time to go to Franklin

Franklin experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 39.9°F (4.4°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 79.2°F (26.2°C). September is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Franklin, April, July, and September are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.