Belle Meade Plantation Tours

Belle Meade Plantation which includes a house and heritage architecture
Civil War bullet holes, log cabins and fine wine Southern history and style come to life at this historic plantation house.

Located in the opulent neighborhood of the same name, the Belle Meade Plantation sets the tone for the entire area. Once one of the nation’s most prosperous plantations and premier horse breeding farms, Belle Meade now opens its gates daily as a museum, restaurant and winery.

The grandness of the home and its accompanying buildings is evident the moment you drive across the stone bridge at the entrance. John Giles Harding conceived the plantation in 1807 when he purchased 250 acres (101 hectares) near Richland Creek. The original home was commissioned in the Federal style in 1820 and over subsequent decades was remodeled into the Greek Revival-style mansion that stands today.

As you approach the mansion, look for the bullet holes in the massive front columns, a reminder of the Civil War battle that took place across the estate’s front fields. Wander the cool hallways and rooms within the house and admire Harding family treasures, which have been returned by descendants over the years. Of particular note are the fine examples of Tennessee-crafted antique furniture and the collection of paintings of the estate’s illustrious thoroughbreds, created by some of the period’s greatest artists.

At its peak, the estate covered more than 5,000 acres (2,000 hectares). Even at its present size of 30 acres (12 hectares) there is much to see, so wear comfortable footwear. In addition to the main house, guests are invited to explore the dairy, horse stables, carriage house, mausoleum and original log cabin. For deeper insights, join one of the daily tours led by knowledgeable guides dressed in period attire.

Enjoy a meal at Harding House, a renowned dining establishment specializing in Southern fare. The restaurant and surrounding grounds are a hot spot for Nashville weddings. Wine buffs will also enjoy the plantation's winery where the wines feature equestrian-inspired labels paying homage to the estate’s horse breeding past. A gift shop offers quality craft items.

Located 6 miles (10 kilometers) west of Nashville, the estate is a feature on the Tennessee Antebellum Trail. Parking is free.

Browse tours and tickets to explore Belle Meade Plantation

Air, helicopter & balloon tours

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Reviews of Belle Meade Plantation

4.4
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
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" "5 - Excellent 57.95107033639144%
4 - Good
186
" "4 - Good 28.440366972477065%
3 - Okay
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" "3 - Okay 11.162079510703364%
2 - Disappointing
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" "2 - Disappointing 1.070336391437309%
1 - Terrible
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" "1 - Terrible 1.3761467889908257%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Dec 7, 2019

Didn't go here but couldn't take back my answer. We did go to the Belmont Mansion and that was EXCELLENT>

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Oct 21, 2019

You can see the grounds for free. The plantation house is not free but is worth every penny.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Jul 14, 2019

Good tour with a wine tasting at the end. Tour guide was knowledgeable.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Jun 2, 2019

Did not go to belle meade

5/5 - Excellent

Celeste
Apr 24, 2019

Do yourself a favor and go to the visitor center and get the all access pass. $75 for 4 attractions and 2 free attractions.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Apr 3, 2019

Spring for the horse and carriage tour!! Completely worth it! Do it 1st so that when you do the self guided part of the tour you'll have great information and history to consider with what you see!! Loved it!!!

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