Civil War Tour with Lotz House, Carter House & Carnton Admission from Nashville

Planning a trip to Nashville and eager to explore a pivotal chapter of American history? This Civil War tour offers a detailed look at the Battle of Franklin, one of the bloodiest hours of the conflict, set against the backdrop of scenic and historically significant Franklin, Tennessee. Designed for history buffs and curious travelers alike, this full-day adventure combines storytelling, authentic battlefield relics, and picturesque Southern architecture.

Two things we really like about this tour are the knowledgeable guides who bring the stories to life and the chance to see well-preserved homes still bearing battle scars—bullet holes and bloodstains included. It’s a rare opportunity to walk through homes that once served as hospitals and witness the tangible aftermath of a brutal fight. That said, the tour’s pace involves walking and standing, which might be challenging if mobility is an issue. This tour is best suited for history lovers, especially those interested in the Civil War’s impact on Tennessee and the South.

Key Points

• Combines visits to three historic homes and battle sites all in one day
• Guided by knowledgeable storytellers who bring history alive
• Features preserved buildings with battle scars—bullet holes, stains, and more
• Includes free time to explore Franklin’s shops and eateries
• Offers transportation in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles
• Well-rated with strong reviews from previous travelers

Setting the Scene: What to Expect from This Civil War Tour

This seven-hour tour from Nashville is carefully curated to give you an immersive experience into the Battle of Franklin, which occurred on November 30, 1864. It’s not just about looking at old buildings; it’s about understanding the stories, the suffering, and the decisions that shaped this battlefield. Starting from your Nashville hotel, you’ll be whisked away in a comfortable coach to Franklin, a town that still feels like stepping back into the 19th century.

The tour is designed with a manageable group size—generally under 25 travelers—so you can ask questions and enjoy a more intimate experience. It’s perfect for those who value storytelling backed by real artifacts and sites that still carry the marks of the battle. Expect a mixture of walking, standing, and driving, with plenty of opportunities to learn and absorb the atmosphere.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Pickup in Nashville

Your adventure begins early in the morning at 108 1st Ave South in Nashville, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers. The air-conditioned bus whisks you out of the city and into the quiet charm of Franklin, a town that played a central role in the Civil War. The drive itself is part of the experience—your guide often shares intriguing facts about Nashville and Tennessee history along the way, setting the scene for what’s to come.

First Stop: Carter House

The first stop is the Carter House, strategically positioned at the heart of the Union’s position during the battle. What makes this site compelling isn’t just its age or architecture but the stories written into its walls. The house and its outbuildings still show hundreds of bullet holes, proof of the ferocity of the fighting. As you walk through, your guide will describe how the battle unfolded here, with anecdotes about the families who lived through it.

One recent traveler mentioned, “Very informative. Enjoyed touring the houses and hearing what it was like for these families during the battle.” It’s a sobering experience, and you’ll get a real sense of the chaos through the preserved damage.

Second Stop: Free Time and the Carnton Plantation

After the Carter House, you’ll have some time in Franklin’s quaint downtown—perfect for browsing local shops and grabbing a bite (lunch is on your own). Then, it’s on to the Carnton Plantation, a site that truly encapsulates the war’s aftermath. Ordered to serve as a Confederate field hospital, Carnton became a memorial after the battle, with the largest private Confederate cemetery in the U.S. nearby.

Here, your guide will walk you through the grounds, sharing stories about the hospital, the soldiers, and the families who mourned. One reviewer said, “Enjoyed touring the houses and hearing what it was like for these families during the battle,” which sums up how human the history feels when you’re walking these grounds. The plantation’s history as a hospital and memorial adds depth that makes it more than just a pretty historic house.

Third Stop: The Lotz House

Next, you’ll visit the Lotz House Museum, another war-affected home. This house became a hospital after the battle, and its floors and walls still bear the scars—bullet holes, bloodstains, and signs of the conflict. Walking through, you can’t help but imagine the chaos of that day, especially when your guide recounts the more than 9,500 casualties that filled Franklin’s streets.

A fellow reviewer described it as “an incredible opportunity to revisit history,” noting how the preserved battle damage helped them truly picture what happened here. It’s a powerful experience, especially for those who love seeing the tangible remnants of history.

What’s Included and What You Should Know

The tour fee of $101.90 covers everything—admission to all three historic homes, transportation, and expert guiding. No need to worry about tickets or logistics; everything is handled for you, leaving you free to absorb the stories and sights. The round-trip transport is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which is crucial during Tennessee’s warm months.

One important note: lunch isn’t included, but Franklin’s downtown offers plenty of options for a quick bite or a sit-down meal. Also, since the tour involves some walking and standing, it’s best suited for travelers who are reasonably mobile. For those with mobility concerns, it’s worth considering the option to stay on the bus and listen to detailed descriptions from your guide—some reviews mentioned this as a helpful alternative.

Insights from Past Travelers

Many visitors have praised the guides, describing them as knowledgeable and passionate. One review summed up, “Jeff made the drive to and from Franklin interesting and set the scene for the visits to the three houses.” The storytelling quality appears to be a major highlight, making the history come alive rather than feeling like a dry lecture.

Travelers also appreciated the well-preserved sites. “Houses were amazing that so much of the original pieces were there. And all the bullet holes from the battle,” one person remarked. These authentic details help visitors connect emotionally and visually to the past.

While most reviews are glowing, some mentioned the challenge of stairs or standing for extended periods. If mobility is a concern, this is worth considering, as the historical sites involve some physical activity.

The Overall Value

At just over $100, this tour offers a comprehensive and immersive look into a critical moment in American history. Compared to visiting these sites independently—paying for individual tickets, transportation, and guide services—the bundled experience provides good value. It’s especially appealing if you want a well-organized, informative day without the hassle of planning each stop.

The tour’s duration strikes a balance: long enough to cover significant ground but not so exhaustive that it becomes tiring. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts but also accessible to curious travelers who appreciate storytelling and authentic sites.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best for those who love history and want to deepen their understanding of the Civil War, especially the Battle of Franklin. It suits travelers who enjoy guided experiences and are comfortable with some walking and standing. If you’re looking for a way to see historic homes that still carry the marks of battle, this is a compelling choice.

Families with older children or teens interested in American history will also find it engaging. However, travelers with limited mobility might want to review the physical demands of walking through some sites.

Final Thoughts

This Civil War tour from Nashville offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that combines storytelling, historic sites, and scenic Tennessee charm. The expertise of the guides and the authenticity of the preserved battle scars make it stand out. It’s a meaningful way to understand the sacrifices and struggles of those who fought at Franklin.

The opportunity to walk through homes that still bear battle scars, hear stories from those who lived through it, and explore a historic town makes for an educational and emotionally moving day. Whether you’re a Civil War buff or simply interested in American history, this tour packs a punch, providing insight that will resonate long after you leave.

If you’re seeking a tour that balances detailed storytelling with tangible historic sights, this is an excellent choice. It’s especially rewarding for those who want to see history come alive in a setting that’s both scenic and meaningful.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It’s approximately seven hours, including travel time, site visits, and free time in Franklin.

What’s included in the price?
Admission to the Lotz House, Carter House, and Carnton Plantation, transportation in a comfortable coach, and a knowledgeable guide.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is on your own, but Franklin offers many dining options.

Are there any physical demands?
Yes, some walking and standing are involved, and stairs may be encountered at some sites. Mobility considerations should be taken into account.

What’s the group size?
Most tours are limited to 24 travelers, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy a personal experience.

Can I stay on the bus if I can’t walk much?
Yes, some reviewers mention that staying on the bus and listening to detailed descriptions is an option if mobility is a concern.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially for older children or teens interested in history. Younger kids might find the walking and standing challenging.

What’s the weather policy?
The tour operates in most weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This detailed exploration should help you decide if this Civil War tour aligns with your interests and travel style. It’s a chance to step into history’s shadows and see the scars of a defining American conflict, all within an engaging and well-organized package.