Magpie
4.8(544 reviews)

Civil War History Tour from Nashville

From$101.9
6 hours
Nashville, USA

About this activity

Immerse yourself in Civil War history with a guided tour of Franklin's historic sites, including Lotz House, Carter House, and Carnton Plantation, just a short drive from Nashville.

Highlights

  • Explore the historic Lotz House
  • Visit the Carter House battlefield
  • Tour the Carnton Plantation grounds
  • Learn about the Battle of Franklin
  • Discover Civil War history near Nashville

Full description

Step back in time and delve into the rich history of the Civil War with this engaging day trip from Nashville. Visit the Lotz House, renowned for its role in the Battle of Franklin, the Carter House, a key site of the battle, and the Carnton Plantation, which served as a field hospital. Each location offers unique insights into the era, with knowledgeable guides sharing captivating stories and historical context. This tour provides a comprehensive and immersive experience, perfect for history enthusiasts and those looking to connect with America's past. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the heart of Civil War history near Nashville.

Included / Excluded

  • Guided tour of Lotz House, Carter House, and Carnton Plantation
  • Transportation from Nashville to Franklin and back
  • Admission fees to all three historic sites
  • Meals and beverages during the tour

Itinerary

1

Please arrive at the Riverfront Train Station located at 108 1st Avenue South 15 minutes before the departure time. Visit sites near where the Union and Confederate armies fought and hear stories from your knowledgeable guide about the Battle of Franklin, fought on November 30, 1864 and known by many as the five bloodiest hours of the Civil War.

Duration: 7 hoursAdmission: YES
2

Stop by the Carter House, located at the center of the Union position during the battle. The house and its outer buildings still show hundreds of bullet holes.

Admission: YES
3

Next, enjoy free time in the quaint town of Franklin to shop, eat (own expense) and view other historic sites. You will then journey to the Carnton Plantation, ordered to be a Confederate field hospital by a Southern General and then made an eternal memorial to the Confederate soldiers by the mistress of the house. Now, the plantation is home to the largest private Confederate cemetery in the US. Tour the plantation with your guide and hear narrative descriptions about that fateful battle and the aftermath of the war. After your tour, you’ll be taken back to your Nashville hotel.

Admission: YES
4

At the Lotz House, which became a hospital after the battle, see cannon ball holes and bloodstains on the floors and walls, which bear witness to the savage nature of this horrific conflict. After touring these houses, you will be able to imagine how the residents of Franklin felt when they emerged from their homes on the morning after the battle to find more than 9,500 casualties.

Admission: YES

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • Tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately for the weather.
  • Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Please arrive at the departure point 15 minutes early to ensure timely departure.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
  • Bring a camera to capture the historic sites.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Accessible
  • Stroller Accessible
  • Service Animals Allowed
  • Easy Public Transport

Good to know

  • Lunch on your own in downtown Franklin.
  • Accessibility: ADA-compliant vehicles are available for most tours if you provide us with a 48-hour notice. After scheduling your tour, please contact our Dispatch Office to confirm availability.

Traveler reviews

4.8
544 reviews
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Ed was an awesome tour...

Ed was an awesome tour guide!! Well thought out tour. If you love history and are looking for a day trip, highly recommend

Montserrat_SJul 4, 2026VIATOR

Roger the tour guide was...

Roger the tour guide was awesome. Tour was awesome. 10/10 However I have done 2 yours and the air conditioning on the buses is awful. It’s gets super hot on the rides and definitely hurts the overall experience.

Kelly_MJun 30, 2026VIATOR

Civil war houses tour

The bus driver and tour guides at the houses were very informative. You will love this tour. The food was great in Franklin.

Nancy_WJun 10, 2026VIATOR

Deeply Human Perspective of the Civil War

Touring this area of Franklin gave a unique and deeply human perspective on the Civil War. Tennessee was at the crossroads of the conflict and no where represents that more than Franklin where communities and even families were divided. Touring these sites is somber as you learn about the soldiers, slaves, and civilians that were forever changed by the terrible night that was the Battle of Franklin. While a heavy topic, it is an important piece of history in understanding the Civil War.

megrichard2840Jun 5, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Informative and interesting

This was a really excellent tour, with an informative and helpful driver, and well planned timings at each stop. The tour guides at each stop were excellent, providing vivid and detailed historical information which really brought the past to life.

DcwellzJun 3, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

Lunch on your own in downtown Franklin. Accessibility: ADA-compliant vehicles are available for most tours if you provide us with a 48-hour notice. After scheduling your tour, please contact our Dispatch Office to confirm availability.
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