Touring the historic Belle Meade Plantation just got easier for parents of toddlers and preschoolers. The new Yearling Tour (available Mon – Sat at 10 a.m.) is a 35-minute exploration of the kitchen house and family rooms of the home. Hand-held teaching toys, creative play and questions are designed to engage your little ones. Children receive a souvenir toy, and they can enjoy playtime at the Historic Dollhouse, which is full of toys and games. Mom and Dad can enjoy complimentary wine tasting after the tour. Cost is $20 adults, $10 children ages 2 and older, free for ages 23 months and younger.
MORE BELLE MEADE TOURS AND PROGRAMS OF NOTE
Journey to Jubilee Tour
This brand-new tour follows the first African-Americans who were brought the Belle Meade in 1807. It shows the vitality of their presence to the existence of the property and family through 1906. The tour is for ages 12 & older with stops inside and outside the mansion. Cost is $24.
Hands-On History Programs
For families with kids ages 12 and younger, Hands-On History programs takes place on select Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. throughought the year. Each installment features and different theme with a hands-on activity. Tickets are $12 ages 4 and older (free 3 and younger). Tickets include a free scoop of ice cream at the Coop N Scoop. The next two Hands-On History Programs are:
Wonderland Tea Party — Saturday, March 2
Down on the Farm — Saturday, May 11
Homeschool Days
Homeschool families can participate in educational outings on select Wednesdays from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Cost is $10 per student. Each family recieves one free parent-educator admission. Additional adults are $15. Younger (non-participating) siblings are welcome to observe at no cost. You must purchase tickets online in advance. Upcoming Homeschool Days include:
Millie and Monroe: Stories of Slavery and Freedom
Wednesday, Feb. 20
Best for grades 3 and higher
All BOOKed Up! Hands-On Experiences with Your Favorite Children's Novels
Wednesday, April 24
Suitable for all ages
GETTING THERE
Belle Meade Plantation is located at 110 Leake Ave., Nashville. Hours are 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily. Tours start every 30 – 45 minutes with the last tour at 4 p.m. Mansion admission is $24 adults, $13 ages 6 – 18, free ages 5 and younger. Call 615-356-0501 or visit bellemeadeplantation.com.