Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery Guide
Belle Meade: Journey Through History, Horses, and Wine Guide
Escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Nashville and step into the elegant world of Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery. This meticulously preserved antebellum plantation offers a fascinating glimpse into Tennessee's past, showcasing the lives of those who lived and worked on the property, from the Harding family to the enslaved African Americans who built and sustained it. Explore the mansion, learn about the history of thoroughbred horse breeding, and sample award-winning wines – all in one captivating location. Belle Meade's history stretches back to the early 19th century when John Harding established the property as a cotton plantation. Over time, Belle Meade transitioned into a world-renowned thoroughbred horse farm, producing some of the most celebrated racehorses in American history, including Iroquois, the first American-bred horse to win the English Derby. The plantation also played a significant role in the Civil War, serving as a temporary headquarters for both Union and Confederate forces. Today, Belle Meade strives to tell a more complete and nuanced story of its past, acknowledging the contributions and experiences of all who lived and worked there, including the enslaved community. A visit to Belle Meade offers a variety of engaging activities. Take a guided tour of the mansion and learn about the Harding family and their legacy. Explore the grounds and discover the historic stables, carriage house, and other outbuildings. Participate in a wine tasting at the winery and sample Belle Meade's handcrafted wines. Learn about the history of thoroughbred horse breeding at the equestrian center. And be sure to visit the Journey to Jubilee exhibit, which tells the stories of the enslaved African Americans who lived and worked at Belle Meade. While Belle Meade doesn't have a specific culinary tradition, the onsite restaurant offers Southern-inspired cuisine with a modern twist.
Transportation
Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery is located a short drive from downtown Nashville. While public transportation options are limited, you can take bus number 3 from downtown Nashville to Harding Rd & Belle Meade Blvd, then walk for about 15 minutes to reach the site. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available.