The Tennessee Antebellum Trail is a 90 mile looped trail of elegant pre-Civil War homes and towns in middle Tennessee. We created the Tennessee Antebellum Trail map to help visitors plan their trip.
Although, there is no set itinerary for the Tennessee Antebellum Trail – the Tennessee Antebellum Trail map was created as a complement to your tour – here are a few ideas to help visitors get the most out of their time on the trail. Our favorite sample itinerary is the Two Day Tennessee Antebellum Trail Experience below.
Use The Tennessee Antebellum Trail Map to Plan Your Itinerary
Wake up early and start your first day at one of Nashville’s most historic estates with breakfast and a tour of The Hermitage, President Andrew Jackson’s home.
Next, make the short 20 minute drive south to visit Travellers Rest, the home of Andrew Jackson’s dear friend and political powerbroker, Judge John Overton.
As you continue on your journey, you will visit Belle Meade Plantation – Queen of the Southern Plantations – known for its thoroughbred stud farm. After touring, enjoy a wonderful Southern lunch at the Harding House at Belle Meade.
Then it’s off to Belmont Mansion, the home of a real life Scarlett O’Hara. The ornate home of Adelicia Acklen is only 15 minutes away and is located in the heart of Nashville.
Next, head south about twenty minutes down I-65 to Franklin to explore the unique antiques and specialty shops on historic Main Street.
After spending time downtown, start your evening with a tour of Carnton Plantation, an elegant home which was turned into a field hospital during the Battle of Franklin.
For dinner, enjoy a meal at the Factory at Franklin or at one of the charming restaurants on the town square. Spend the night at one of the many romantic bed and breakfast inns that are plentiful in this region.
Day Two Tennessee Antebellum Trail Itinerary
Just south of Nashville is the heart of plantation country, Maury County. Within an hour’s drive, you’ll witness the grandeur of the area’s lovely homes.
Start your tour at Rippavilla, an elegant restored mansion that even has ghost tours at night! Don’t miss the Civil War Museum and the Maury County Horse and Mule Museum.
Then it’s off to downtown Columbia, a 10 minute drive, to enjoy a stroll around the square and a bite to eat. After lunch, visit the President James K. Polk Ancestral Home, which is also located in the heart of the city.
Your afternoon is free to experience other area homes, cemeteries and museums. Complete your day with a 15 minute drive to one of the region’s most elegant and delightful homes, Rattle and Snap Plantation, but make sure to call in advance – Rattle and Snap is a private residence.
Afterwards, jump on the Natchez Trace Parkway for a relaxing, moonlight drive back into Nashville giving you time to relax and contemplate the sights and sounds from your very own Tennessee Antebellum Trail memories.