Tennessee Civil War History Tours & Activities

Get an inside look at the bloodiest hours of the American Civil War on this tour from Nashville to Franklin, the site of the famous Battle of Franklin in 1864. Learn from your knowledgeable guide about the war’s dark history as you visit the Carter House and Lotz House, which still bear bullet holes and blood stains. You’ll also tour the Carnton and learn about its role during and after the war, when it became the country's largest private Confederate cemetery.

As one of the largest antebellum houses in Tennessee, Belmont Mansion is a must-see for anyone interested in Nashville history, the Civil War, architecture, art and decorative arts. General Admission tickets purchased provide a tour that begins with an introduction from a trained interpreter then allows you to explore the mansion at your own pace. Guides are stationed throughout the Italian Villa style house to answer questions and provide insight.

Discover how the Civil War affected Belle Meade and Nashville On the Battle at Belle Meade tour, learn about how the Harding-Jacksons and those enslaved on the property lived through the American Civil War. On this dynamic outdoor walking tour you will make multiple stops across the property, following the footsteps of the soldiers who skirmished at Belle Meade. Discover how the US Colored Troops, the Army of the Cumberland, and the Army of Tennessee fought at the Battle of Nashville, and its impact on the American Civil War. All ages welcome. This tour does not go inside the mansion.

Discover Memphis’ rich history, musical heritage, and Southern cuisine on this comprehensive “best of Memphis” tour. Take in all the highlights of downtown Memphis, from the Blues bars of Beale Street and historic Victorian mansions, to the site where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated and one of Elvis’ early apartments. Get insight into the city's amazing heritage at the The National Civil Rights Museu, site of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. After visiting the museum of choice, you'll be driven safely back to Beale St., or to the Memphis Riverboat to enjoy a scenic cruise on the Mississippi River.

The Murder in Music City Ghost Tour is our adult’s only option (16+ only) that is perfect for a fan of “true crime” and will feature Music City’s brutal past, murders, the mob, haunted record shops, and the former red light district’s brothels. This tour will contain mature topics and language unsuitable for children. This tour is for ages 16+. If you have 10 or more guests in one group, please get in touch with the private & group sales coordinator with Ghost City Tours.

We do not cancel tours for low bookings. We'll tour as low as 1 guest. We welcome all! Owner Joe Nashville, Nashville Experience Tours, is native Tennessean and has roots that go back to the first settlement in Nashville - Ft. Nashborough. His insight into the historic and modern day Nashville is entertaining and creates a very unique tour experience from a local. Joe caps his tour groups to about half of the normal walking tour to create a more interactive and focused experience. He also despises loudspeakers. Joe speaks plenty loud for all to hear. Joe's knowledge of happenings and stories of interesting people of Nashville truly elevates this tour experience and showcases the real Nashville. **** Joe also has a City Experience Van Tour here if you prefer a van tour instead of walking.****

This captivating bundle of self-guided audio tours immerses you in the battles of Gettysburg, Antietam, and Vicksburg. Discover how the Americans finally defeated the mighty British empire in the decisive battle of the Revolutionary War. Then jump forward in time to two of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War, when brother fought against brother. Hear about the generals, unsung heroes, and blow-by-blow accounts of how it all unfolded. Recommended: Purchase one tour per car. Everyone can listen at the same time! After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. This is not an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit. Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months.

On this 2.5 hour African American History tour, we will be your "conductor" and take you on a journey through Memphis that will be sure to open your eyes to some of the most historical sites connected to slavery through to the Civil Rights Movement and beyond. There is so much more to Memphis than Downtown to experience, so we will also explore some of our interesting neighborhoods. This tour is for residents, families, and visitors who are looking for the activities to do that are safe, fun and insightful.

Get ready for a family-friendly ghost adventure through the haunted heart of Chattanooga! This walking tour is packed with true tales of mystery, mischief, and things that go bump in the night—all told in a way that’s fun and thrilling for ghost hunters of all ages. Starting at Ross Landing, your spirited guide will lead you along the scenic Tennessee Riverwalk, where the beauty of the landscape hides some very dark secrets. Hear chilling stories from the Civil War, unsolved mysteries, and spooky sightings that still give locals goosebumps. You'll stop by iconic spots like the modernist Hunter Museum of American Art, stroll up charming Cherry Street, and uncover the eerie past of the romantic (but haunted!) May's Urban Mansion. We'll finish at the glowing Tennessee Aquarium, where one last hair-raising tale awaits beneath the stars. If you have 10 or more guests in one group, please contact the private & group sales coordinator with Ghost City Tours.

Purchase only one tour per vehicle, not per person. Everyone listens together! Discover gorgeous natural scenery and rich history at Cades Cove, one of the most popular destinations in the Smoky Mountains. This scenic loop packs a ton of sights into a small space. Check out sparkling waterfalls, lush hiking trails, and historic churches all in one place! Plus, learn the fascinating history behind this cove, including how the Civil War once threatened to tear it apart. After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

Step back in time and uncover the fascinating stories of Chattanooga on our 1.5-hour Rydable History Tour! Riding
one of our fun, stuffed-animal scooters—whether it’s a unicorn, dragon, or elephant—you’ll experience the perfect blend of joy, adventure, and education. This tour is ideal for families, history buffs, and anyone ready to see the city in a whole new way. We’ll begin at our office located at 707 Cherry St in Downtown Chattanooga. After a brief training we will pass through art alleys, past post Civil War era buildings on our way to the Tennessee Aquarium. From there, we’ll cross the iconic Walnut Street Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian and bike bridges in the country. Take in breathtaking views of the Tennessee River, Lookout Mountain, and the city skyline as we pause for unforgettable photo opportunities. We will pass through the Bluff View Arts district and head towards the Big 9, a historic African American neighborhood. We will pass by the Bessie Smith Center.

The Bicentennial Mall is one of Nashville’s premier tourist destinations. On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll experience a performance of the Tennessee Carillon, stroll down the Walkway of Counties, visit the 200-feet wide map of the state, and learn about the State Capitol building. The tour ends with a trip down the Pathway of History, where you’ll learn how the state developed, hear about the sit-in protests during the Civil Rights era, and visit a World War II memorial. Along the way, you’ll learn about the history of Tennessee and Nashville. You’ll also get a sense of how the Bicentennial Mall is a representation of all things Tennessee, from its beauty to its people, and its music. After all, the park was designed to celebrate the state. This magnificent park, an extension of the State Capitol, is one of the most historical spots in Nashville and you can enjoy this tour of the park on location or virtually at home after downloading the VoiceMap app.

Enjoy a personal and intensive Civil War tour along the path of the Tennessee Campaign fought between General John Schofield and General John Bell Hood's armies between Spring Hill and Nashville. The stories are gut wrenching and endearing of these men who fought for their beliefs. Cousin against cousin, even brother against brother. With some levity along the way, you'll learn a great deal about the struggle in a personal and appealing way. We'll drive, look, stop and walk our way through history.

Start your day the Nashville way—with a locally brewed coffee in hand and the city’s untold stories underfoot. This isn’t just a history tour. It’s a morning ritual reimagined. Our "Rise & Roam" experience blends rich storytelling with rich coffee, giving you a fresh perspective on the streets of downtown Nashville before the crowds roll in. Led by passionate local guides (no scripts, no fluff), you'll walk through iconic landmarks and hidden gems while learning how Nashville’s past shaped its present. We don’t just point at buildings—we connect the dots. From Civil War intrigue to Music Row legends, we uncover the people, conflicts, and quirky moments that textbooks skip. And yes, we fuel it all with a handpicked cup from one of Nashville’s best coffee shops. If you're looking for a calm, insightful, and energizing way to explore the city, this is your new favorite morning routine.

Experience Nashville with the classic BRONCO! Tour Nashville with the best, most passionate and informative tour guide in town. A truly historical, factual, journey through the history of Nashville and the history of country music. Murals, architecture, backstories, back alleys, everything that is interesting and cool about this amazing city! All done top down, open air, in a customized classic BRONCO!