Historical Graveyard Tour of Nashville

Explore Nashville’s Past with the Historical Graveyard Tour

The Historical Graveyard Tour of Nashville offers an immersive journey through the city’s past, focusing on significant individuals buried in its historic cemeteries and key landmarks. Priced at $2,600 per group of up to 8 people and lasting around 8 hours, this private experience combines cultural insights with visits to notable gravesites, military memorials, and local history.

Starting at 9:00 am from the Hotel Indigo Nashville, the tour includes private transportation and an expert guide who leads you through a series of meaningful stops. Although lunch is not included, the tour’s flexibility allows adjustments based on your interests, making it a personalized way to explore Nashville’s heritage.

This tour is best suited for history enthusiasts and those interested in military and cultural history, offering a detailed look at Nashville’s most prominent graves and historic sites. The tour’s focus on meaningful landmarks provides an educational experience that complements any visit to Music City.

Key Points

• Private, guided 8-hour tour with transportation for groups up to 8 people
• Visits to notable cemeteries including Mount Olivet and Nashville National Cemetery
• Highlights include graves of military veterans, historic figures, and Nashville icons
• Includes visits to the Tennessee State Capitol and Spring Hill Cemetery
• No lunch included, but the tour features stops at iconic landmarks and cultural sites
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour

Visiting Mount Olivet Funeral Home & Cemetery

The tour begins at Mount Olivet Cemetery, known for its historic gravesites and beautifully maintained grounds. Here, the guide highlights notable figures such as Monroe Harding, a notable philanthropist who founded the Monroe Harding Orphanage, and Sam Davis, the “Boy Hero of the Confederacy”.

You also learn about Emmett Turner, an influential African American architect and civil rights activist. This stop lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving ample time to explore the grounds and learn about Nashville’s early history. Admission to the cemetery is free, and the focus is on understanding the lives of these important individuals.

Experience the Cultural Vibe at Sinatra Bar & Lounge

After the cemeteries, the tour visits the Sinatra Bar & Lounge in Printers Alley. This stop offers a Rat Pack-era atmosphere and celebrates Frank Sinatra’s enduring legacy with a collection of memorabilia, paintings, and live music performances.

While the bar’s menu features Sinatras’ favorite dishes, like traditional Italian fare and steaks, drinks and meals are not included in the tour price. This spot provides a relaxed environment to appreciate Nashville’s jazz and entertainment history, making it a unique cultural interlude during the day.

Honoring Military Service at Nashville National Cemetery

Next, the tour takes you to Nashville National Cemetery, a federally-operated site dedicated to military veterans. Here, you will see the graves of Percy Priest, a U.S. Congressman and namesake of Percy Priest Lake, and Ernie Pyle, the acclaimed war correspondent who earned a Pulitzer Prize.

This stop lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, providing a solemn setting to reflect on military service and Nashville’s role in national history. The cemetery’s significance lies in its role as a site of honor for veterans from all eras.

Discover Tennessee’s Political History at the State Capitol

The Tennessee State Capitol is the next destination, where the guide provides insights into the life of James K. Polk, the 11th President of the United States. His gravesite is located in Victory Park, just 300 feet from the Tennessee Capitol Building.

The stop lasts approximately 30 minutes, during which visitors can appreciate the historical context of Polk’s presidency and his connection to Nashville. The proximity to the Tennessee statue of Andrew Jackson, who mentored Polk, adds further depth to this visit.

Serenity and Heritage at Spring Hill Cemetery

The tour concludes at Spring Hill Cemetery, famous for its peaceful atmosphere and notable burials. Here, Adelicia Acklen, a socialite and Belmont Mansion owner, along with William Driver, the sea captain who named the American flag “Old Glory”, are buried.

Also interred at this site is Alvin C. York, a World War I hero and Medal of Honor recipient. This final stop lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering a reflective setting to absorb Nashville’s ongoing stories through its distinguished graves.

Practicalities and Logistics of the Tour

The tour departs at 9:00 am from the Hotel Indigo Nashville at 315 Union St. It includes private transportation throughout, ensuring comfort and convenience. The guide provides commentary tailored to your interests, with the flexibility to adjust the focus during visits.

Since the tour does not include lunch, participants may arrange their own meals during the day or choose to enjoy the amenities at Sinatra Lounge. Pickup and drop-off are included, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and close proximity to public transportation.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

This private Nashville cemetery tour offers a comprehensive, personalized look at the city’s history through its notable graves and landmarks. Its focus on military veterans, political figures, and cultural icons makes it particularly appealing to those interested in Nashville’s broader story beyond music.

The inclusion of multiple historic cemeteries, along with culturally rich stops like Sinatra Lounge, provides a balanced mix of solemn reflection and entertainment. The flexibility of the itinerary and the customized experience make this tour a meaningful way to explore Nashville’s past.

The Sum Up: An Educational Journey into Nashville’s Heritage

The Historical Graveyard Tour of Nashville combines history, culture, and personal stories through visits to key cemeteries and landmarks. Its lasting around 8 hours allows for a deep dive into Nashville’s past, with private transportation and an expert guide enriching the experience.

While the price of $2,600 might seem high, it reflects the customized, private nature of the tour and the inclusion of transportation and guide services. Perfect for those who appreciate history and want a thoughtful, paced exploration of Nashville’s notable figures and military heroes, this tour offers a meaningful way to connect with the city’s roots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. You will need to arrange your own meals during the tour.

How many people can participate in this private tour?
The tour is designed for groups of up to 8 people.

What is the starting point and time?
The tour begins at 9:00 am from the Hotel Indigo Nashville at 315 Union St.

Does the tour accommodate accessibility needs?
Most travelers can participate; service animals are allowed, and transportation is private, helping to accommodate various needs.

How long is the entire tour?
The duration is approximately 8 hours, including stops, sightseeing, and travel time.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, adjustments can be made based on your interests and the availability of cemetery tours or access to specific gravesites.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes private transportation and a guide. Meals, beverages, and personal expenses are not included.

What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Are tickets for the stops included?
Admission to cemeteries is free, and no additional tickets are required for the sites visited.

Who operates this tour?
The service provider is Metro Livery, reachable at +16153653434 or via email at [email protected].