Top 5 Historic Homes to Visit in Nashville

When most people think of Nashville, they picture honky-tonks, hot chicken, and live music pouring out of every bar on Broadway, which are key items on my Nashville itinerary. But beyond the neon lights and country hits, Nashville is also filled with rich Southern history, especially when it comes to its beautifully preserved historic homes. From opulent estates to Civil War landmarks, these homes offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past and are perfect for anyone who loves architecture, history, or simply exploring somewhere new.

Here are my top 5 historic homes to visit in Nashville, each one a portal to a different chapter of Music City's complicated past.

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Follow along on the vlog to see my Top 5 Historic Homes to visit in Nashville, Tennessee.

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5. Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage

Located just outside downtown Nashville, The Hermitage was once home to the seventh U.S. President, Andrew Jackson. This sprawling estate includes Jackson’s mansion, a museum, slave quarters, and peaceful walking trails.

You’ll step right into early 1800s life, with original furnishings and artifacts preserved from Jackson’s time. The audio tour does a great job balancing storytelling and history, giving insight into both Jackson’s political legacy and the realities of enslaved life on the plantation.

Don’t miss: The gardens and the Jackson family tomb; the peaceful resting place of Andrew and Rachel Jackson.

4. Belmont Mansion

Perched in the heart of the Belmont University campus, Belmont Mansion is a stunning example of antebellum architecture and one of the most ornate homes in Tennessee. Built for Adelicia Acklen, one of the wealthiest women in the South, this mansion is filled with European art, marble statues, and intricate details that show just how lavish 19th-century life could be.

The guided tour walks you through parlors, a grand ballroom, and rooms that tell the story of Adelicia’s remarkable and complicated life.

Insider tip: Pair your visit with a stroll through Belmont University’s campus afterward; the gardens and fountains make for great photos.

3. Belle Meade Plantation

Just a few miles from downtown, Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery perfectly blends history, hospitality, and wine tasting. Once a 5,400-acre thoroughbred horse plantation, Belle Meade played a major role in developing the Tennessee horse industry.

The guided tours give an honest look at both the mansion’s grandeur and the lives of the enslaved people who built and maintained it. Afterward, you can enjoy a complimentary wine tasting, a fun and unexpected way to end a history tour!

Don’t miss: The outdoor icehouse, carriage house, and modern winery on the property.

2. The Carter House

Located in nearby Franklin, The Carter House was at the center of one of the Civil War’s bloodiest battles: the Battle of Franklin in 1864. The Carter family literally hid in their basement as fighting raged in their front yard, and bullet holes still mark the walls to this day.

The tour is powerful, emotional, and incredibly well told. You’ll get a detailed look at how the battle unfolded and how it affected local families.

Travel tip: Allow time to visit both the Carter House and the nearby Carnton Plantation (next on the list). I love pairing these two tours together for a comprehensive dive into the Battle of Franklin.

1. Carnton Plantation

Also in Franklin, Carnton stands as a moving tribute to the aftermath of the Battle of Franklin. After the fighting ended, the home was converted into a field hospital for wounded soldiers, and the floors still bear the bloodstains of those who were treated there.

Carnton is not just beautiful, it’s deeply ingrained in the history of Franklin. The stories of the McGavock family and the soldiers cared for here bring history to life in an unforgettable way. Outside, the McGavock Confederate Cemetery is the largest privately owned military cemetery in the United States.

Don’t miss: A guided tour through the house and grounds to fully appreciate its emotional and historical significance.

Whether you’re a history buff or just love exploring beautiful old homes, Nashville’s historic estates offer something truly unique. They tell the stories of ambition, conflict, and resilience, all set against the backdrop of the South’s most charming city.

Next time you visit Nashville, take a break from the music scene and spend a day stepping back in time. You’ll leave with a whole new appreciation for the city’s past, and maybe even a few goosebumps. Which of those homes are you most excited to visit? Comment below and let me know your thoughts!

Ciao for now!

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