In 1807, John and Susannah Harding purchased two-hundred acres of property on the Richland Creek seven miles west of Nashville, and from a two room cabin that still stands today established “Belle Meade”, or the beautiful meadow. Unlike contemporary farms in the region, Belle Meade was not renowned for the production of cash crops, but for the thoroughbred racehorses that would eventually take the Harding’s and their estate to a national and global level of fame during its 100 years of operation.

Guides lead visitors through the rooms of the Greek Revival mansion, reciting history narratives and pointing out original decor and furnishings in two parlors, four bedrooms, and a library. They also leave the mansion’s wide portico and cross the plantation grounds to other historical structures, such as a dairy house, horse stable, carriage house, mausoleum, gardens, and a log cabin. Tours end with a complimentary tasting at the plantation’s winery.