Nashville, TN, is one of the most historic cities in the country. Music City was central to the Civil War, numerous presidential events, and the lives of prominent Southern families. One of these families was that of John Harding, the founder of Belle Meade Plantation. One of the most popular plantations in Nashville, this site consists of the Harding family’s original mansion, picturesque gardens, equestrian stables, and even a winery. Keep reading to learn how you can take full advantage of your visit to this treasured Nashville staple!
Hungry for history? Nashville is the perfect destination for you. For more great vacation ideas like visiting Belle Meade Plantation, Download our free Travel Guide! It’s an extensive list of Nashville’s best local recommendations. Whether you’re interested in the area’s amazing history or flourishing music scene, you’ll find something to love here.
Belle Meade Plantation History
Belle Meade Plantation is more than scenic foliage and unique architecture. In fact, the property’s history involves centuries of American development. Before the plantation was developed, Native tribes used the grounds for hunting and orchestrating trade. As roads developed, settlers arrived and purchased the grounds for farmland; John Harding was one of them. By 1845, Harding had constructed a Greek Revival mansion on the farm that he called “Belle Meade,” or “beautiful meadow” in French. It became one of the largest and most slave-reliant plantations in the South. Now, after centuries of harvests, horse breeding, and hosting famous guests such as William T. Sherman and Grover Cleveland, Belle Meade Plantation is an educational landmark enjoyed by all.
3 of the Best Ways to Enjoy Belle Meade Plantation
Tour the 19th-Century Plantation
A Belle Meade Plantation tour parades guests through the the plantation’s stunning mansion and grounds. Every tour is led by a costumed guide and includes access to the property’s several other historic buildings including a dairy, carriage house, mausoleum, horse stable, and log cabin. All-inclusive tickets are $24 for adults, $20 for seniors, $13 for students, $10 for children ages six through 12, and free for children under six years old. If you’d rather wander the plantation’s gardens without a guide, you can purchase a single grounds ticket for $15.
Enjoy a Glass of Wine
After you’ve finished your tour, a free wine tasting at Belle Meade Plantation’s winery awaits. If you’re visiting with a group, you and yours can attend a festive wine and food pairing. For $35 per person, up to 12 guests can sample five wines paired with locally made gourmet chocolate, cheese, and cured meats for a truly intimate experience. If exploring the property has you hungry for more than charcuterie, Belle Meade Plantation’s on-site restaurant, The Harding House, offers plenty of delicious Southern lunch fare.
Attend an Event on Gorgeous Grounds
Does a Belle Meade Plantation wedding, family reunion, or workshop sound like a great time to you? It does to us! In addition to booking your own private events, the Belle Meade events calendar features many other fun activities open to the public. Whether you choose to host a milestone celebration there or attend a free holiday happening, you’ll have a blast during your time at Belle Meade.
Stay in Luxury Near Belle Meade Plantation
Sometimes all you need is a weekend getaway to one of the most interesting cities in the United States. That’s why you need to explore Music City’s rich history at Belle Meade Plantation, then come back to relax in one of our chic rental properties in the heart of Nashville! Our ultra-clean homes are central to everything the area has to offer, so there’s no better place to lodge.
History buffs love our beautiful Nashville Loft. It has been a part of Downtown Nashville for over 100 years! Originally an early 20th century retail space, this gorgeous condo features restored hardwood floors, an open industrial ceiling, a spa-like bathroom with jetted tub and robe, and plenty of closet space! This loft even has a washer and dryer, so you’ll feel right at home.
Check our availability and start planning your Nashville vacation today!