Belmont Mansion in Nashville, Tennessee, is a historic house museum showcasing antebellum architecture, the legacy of the Acklen family and the story of many who lived and worked on the estate. Here’s a practical guide for your visit, covering how to book, verified opening hours, ticket prices, parking and other visitor essentials.
History and overview of Belmont Mansion
Construction of Belmont Mansion (originally named Belle Monte) began around 1850 and continued through 1860. The estate was built by Joseph and Adelicia Acklen and became one of the largest homes constructed in Tennessee before the Civil War.
Designed in an Italian villa style with 36 rooms, extensive gardens, a conservatory and even a zoo on the grounds, Belmont reflects the wealth and tastes of its era. During the Civil War the mansion was occupied by the Union Army, and later it served as a women’s college before becoming a museum.
It’s this wildly disjointed backstory that makes Belmont Mansion a lot more interesting than many historic house museums. Even those who usually yawn their way through looking at old furniture should find at least something that wakes them up.
Today the mansion is part of the campus of Belmont University and is managed as a house museum by the Belmont Mansion Association. Visitors are invited to explore the house interiors, the story of free and enslaved people, and the surrounding grounds.
The estate offers an accessible look at architecture, art, social history and civil-war era change in the American South, within a short drive of downtown Nashville.
How to book your visit
Advance booking is recommended to guarantee your preferred visiting time and access. Reserve your admission online here.
Opening hours at Belmont Mansion
The mansion is open for general admission as follows:
- Monday–Saturday: Open at 10 am; last admission at 3 30 pm; doors close at 4 30 pm.
- Sunday: Open at 11 am; last admission at 3 30 pm; doors close at 4 30 pm.
The mansion is closed on Thanksgiving Day, December 23 – 25, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, MLK Day and Easter.
Ticket prices for Belmont Mansion
General adult admission costs US$18.00. It’s $17 for seniors and veterans, $13 for college students, $8 for teens and $6 for children between the ages of six and 12. Under sixes get in free.
However, it’s worth taking one of the 75-minute guided tours, which leave at 11 am and 2 pm every day. Entrance with the tour costs $22 for adults and $12 for youths between the ages of six and 18. You’ll get a richer sense of the history, and you can get more insights peppering the guide with questions.
These prices and times are correct as of November 2025, when I last checked.
Parking at Belmont Mansion
The mansion address is Acklen Avenue at Belmont Blvd, Nashville, TN 37212-3810.
Free parking is available on-site in the visitor lot adjacent to Belmont Mansion. You’ll need to register your vehicle (license plate number, make, model and color) to park in the Visitor Parking lot. Forget, and you might be in for a nasty fine.
Street parking along West Belmont Blvd is also possible but check signs carefully as permit zones apply.
Accessibility and visitor facilities
The first floor of Belmont Mansion is wheelchair-accessible; the second floor is not fully accessible but a virtual tour of the second floor is available in the museum shop. Obviously, this is not ideal, but at least it’s an accommodation.
A fairly average museum shop is located on site. Photography is permitted for personal use (excluding professional or commercial shoots without permission).
Best times to visit and how long to plan
Visits are likely to be quieter earlier in the day just after opening. Because admission ends at 3 30 pm, aim to arrive well before then.
A typical visit lasts about 45 minutes to 1 hour. If you plan to explore the grounds or take your time through the rooms, allow up to 1.5 hours.
Nearby attractions to combine with your visit
- Explore the beautiful campus of Belmont University and its landscaping.
- Visit nearby Vanderbilt University, just a short drive away, for gardens and architecture.
- Head into Nashville’s Midtown or Music Row area for cafés, music history and dining after your visit.
Tips for a smoother visit
- Reserve your ticket in advance to secure a preferred time. Book online here.
- Check the mansion’s website for any special closures or event days; these may affect access.
- If parking in visitor lot, register your vehicle on arrival to avoid fines.
Frequently asked questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do I need to book ahead? | Booking is strongly recommended to guarantee your visit and preferred time slot if going for the tour option. |
| What are the opening hours? | Monday to Saturday from 10 am (last admission 3 30 pm); Sunday from 11 am (last admission 3 30 pm). |
| What is the adult ticket price? | $18.00 for adult general admission, $22 if taking the tour. |
| Is parking available? | Yes. Free on-site visitor parking is available; register your vehicle on arrival. |
| Is the mansion accessible? | Yes for the first floor. Second floor has limited accessibility; a virtual tour of the second floor is offered. |
Disclosure: This guide includes affiliate links. Book through them, and I earn a small commission.
