Breweries

Franklin’s breweries offer more than just a pint—they're gathering spots with mountain views, live music, and friendly vibes. Sample seasonal craft beers, enjoy a food truck bite, or bring the pup and hang out on the patio. No judgment if you never make it past the first beer—it’s that relaxing.

Pair your brew with music at Lazy Hiker or Currahee Brewing. Food trucks often rotate through on weekends.

Lazy Hiker Brewing Company
188 W Main St, Franklin, NC 28734
Set in a historic former firehouse, Lazy Hiker is Franklin’s original brewery. Enjoy rotating craft beers like Slack Pack IPA and Trail Mate Golden Ale on their outdoor patio. Often hosts food trucks, live music, games, and events in a relaxed, hiker-friendly atmosphere. Known for connecting the local community since 2015.

Currahee Brewing Company
100 Lakeside Dr, Franklin, NC 28734
Riverside taproom and biergarten with sweeping views of the Little Tennessee River. Offers German-style ales like Mountain Blonde and Garand IPA, plus a full-size food truck onsite. Frequently hosts live music and seasonal events in a scenic outdoor setting. 

Rock House Lodge Taproom (Outdoor 76)
Main Street, Franklin, NC
Operated within the Outdoor 76 gear shop, this small taproom features over 20 rotating regional craft beers. A casual spot to grab a cold one, chat gear, or play shuffleboard after an outdoor adventure. Family- and dog-friendly.

Outdoor 76 / Rock House Lodge
Main Street, Franklin, NC
Operated by local outfitter Outdoor 76, the Rock House Lodge bar offers over 18 rotating craft beers on tap inside their gear shop. Great spot for a casual drink, gear talk, or shuffleboard session after an adventure.

Innovation Brewing (Sylva, NC – approx. 45 min drive)
414 W Main St, Sylva, NC 28779
Highly regarded for a creative lineup of beers and a lively taproom atmosphere—an easy addition if you're heading to Sylva or venturing further with the Franklin beer trail.

Angry Elk Brewing Company (Waynesville, NC – approx. 30 min drive)
Waynesville, NC
Rustic and charming, Angry Elk serves traditional and inventive brews just north of Franklin. A worthy stop on a mountain drive or beer itinerary