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

Step into 1864 and walk the grounds of one of the bloodiest hours in American history with this seven-hour Civil War tour originating from Nashville. For $101.90 per person, you’ll visit historic homes like the Lotz House, Carter House, and Carnton Plantation — each telling a story of bravery, tragedy, and resilience. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour is a deep dive into the Battle of Franklin, offering a chance to see bullet holes, bloodstains, and war relics that still echo the chaos of battle.

What we love most about this experience is how the guides bring history to life with storytelling that’s both factual and engaging. Plus, the chance to walk through houses that served as hospitals and battlefields, with preserved scars on floors and walls, makes history feel startlingly immediate — it’s like walking into a living museum. The tour’s inclusion of Franklin’s charming town center to shop and eat makes it a well-rounded day.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that some sites involve walking and stairs, which might be challenging if mobility is an issue. The tour also runs for about seven hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

This tour appeals most to history buffs, Civil War enthusiasts, or anyone interested in authentic, tangible connections to America’s past. If you’re looking for an insightful, well-organized experience that combines education with a touch of local charm, this tour will serve you well.

Key Points

• In-Depth Civil War History: Learn about the Battle of Franklin, known as the five bloodiest hours of the Civil War.
• Historic Homes with Battle Scars: Visit the Carter House, Lotz House, and Carnton Plantation, all still bearing bullet holes, bloodstains, and war relics.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Julie and Jeff are praised for their knowledge and storytelling ability, making history engaging.
• Balanced Experience: The tour mixes historical sites, storytelling, and free time to explore Franklin’s charming town.
• Accessibility and Group Size: With a maximum of 24 travelers and ADA options available, it caters to most visitors.
• Value for Money: At just over $100, the tour packs in a full day of immersive history and local flavor.

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins at 9:00am from downtown Nashville, where you’ll board a comfortable, air-conditioned shuttle. This setup ensures that your travel time is smooth, and as most reviews note, the driver (notably Julie and Roger) are friendly, knowledgeable, and skilled at setting the scene. We appreciated how they pointed out interesting sights along the way, making the drive part of the experience rather than just transit.

Franklin’s Historic Battlefields and Homes

The Carter House

Your first stop is the Carter House, central to the Union’s position during the battle. As one reviewer pointed out, this house still displays hundreds of bullet holes, and many feel that seeing the scars of battle firsthand makes history hit closer to home. The guide will tell compelling stories about how the house served as the Federal headquarters during the fight, and the basement provided shelter for civilians. It’s a sobering visit, but one that offers a visceral connection to the past.

The Lotz House

Next, you’ll visit the Lotz House, which became a makeshift hospital after the battle. Its floors and walls still bear cannonball holes and bloodstains, vividly illustrating the savage ferocity of those five hours. One reviewer called it a “living artifact,” and it’s easy to see why — standing inside, you can almost hear the echoes of those who were wounded or dying. The house’s history, combined with its preservation, makes it one of the most impactful stops on the tour.

Dinner and Free Time in Franklin

After visiting the homes, you’ll enjoy some free time in Franklin’s charming downtown area. Here, you can shop, grab lunch (own expense), and take in the sights of this historic town. Many travelers love this part of the tour, noting that Franklin’s shops and cafes add a relaxing balance to the intense history elsewhere. It’s also an opportunity to reflect on what you’ve seen so far and connect with locals or pick up souvenirs.

Carnton Plantation

Your final significant site is the Carnton Plantation, ordered to be a Confederate hospital. Its sprawling 48 acres include a cemetery for soldiers who died in the battle, which is the largest private Confederate cemetery in the US. Guides here recount stories of bravery and tragedy, giving you a fuller picture of how the battle’s aftermath shaped Franklin and Tennessee as a whole.

The Overall Experience

Throughout the day, guides are praised for their storytelling and depth of knowledge. Many reviews mention how guides like Julie and Jeff make the history accessible and engaging, often adding personal touches and interesting facts that you won’t find in textbooks. The small group size (max 24 people) ensures you get plenty of attention and can ask questions freely.

While most sites require walking and some stairs, the tour offers options to accommodate those with mobility issues, provided you notify the company 48 hours in advance. A few reviewers noted that standing and walking can be tiring, especially if stairs are involved, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Analyzing the Value

The $101.90 price might seem steep at first glance, but considering the full-day, guided experience including transportation, admission to three significant historic homes, and expert narration, it’s a solid value. The tour’s reviews highlight how well-organized and informative it is, with many guests leaving feeling they’ve gained a deep understanding of Franklin’s pivotal Civil War role.

This experience is perfect if you’re a history aficionado, Civil War enthusiast, or curious traveler who appreciates seeing real artifacts and historic buildings. The detailed stories at each site, combined with the visual scars of battle, make it a vivid educational tool. It’s especially suitable for those who don’t mind a full day on the go and enjoy a mix of guided storytelling and free exploration.

If you’re traveling with someone who prefers a more relaxed or less physically demanding experience, be aware of walking and stairs involved. The tour’s small size and detailed narration make it an intimate, engaging experience ideal for anyone eager to learn about an often-overlooked chapter of American history.

If you’re eager to understand the Civil War through the lens of those who lived it — both soldiers and civilians — this tour offers an authentic and emotionally charged experience. The chance to see battle scars firsthand, walk through preserved historic homes, and listen to passionate guides adds layers that static museum visits cannot match. Franklin’s battle sites are some of the most visceral in the United States, and visiting them with knowledgeable guides ensures you won’t just see history, but feel it.

It’s also a great way to combine history with a taste of small-town charm. Franklin’s downtown area, with its shops and eateries, makes for a pleasant break after the intense history lessons. For anyone interested in American history, especially the Civil War, this tour delivers value, insights, and memorable moments that will stay with you long after you return home.

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation from downtown Nashville aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned shuttle.

How long does the tour last?
It runs about 7 hours, starting at 9:00am and returning to Nashville in the late afternoon.

Are admission fees included?
Yes, your ticket covers entrance to the Lotz House, Carter House, and Carnton Plantation.

Is it suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but be aware that some sites involve walking and stairs. It’s best to notify the tour operator 48 hours in advance for ADA accommodations.

Can I buy lunch during the free time?
Lunch is on your own in Franklin’s downtown area, with many cafes and shops available.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 24 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before departure are not eligible for refunds.

This Civil War tour offers a thoughtfully curated window into Franklin’s pivotal moments, perfect for those who want to connect physically and emotionally with America’s past. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about this dark chapter, it’s an experience worth considering for your Nashville itinerary.