Journey to Jubilee

Gain a deeper understanding of Belle Meade's history through our Journey to Jubilee Tour, an immersive experience that explores the lives, labor, and enduring legacy of the Black men, women, and children who were enslaved at Belle Meade, as well as those who continued working here after emancipation through labor contracts. Using research from primary and secondary sources, our historians present an honest and thoughtful examination of more than a century of history while honoring the individuals whose stories shaped this property and whose contributions have too often gone untold.

This one-hour walking tour takes place both outdoors and inside the historic Kitchen House, allowing guests to experience the spaces where history unfolded while engaging in meaningful discussion about enslavement, emancipation, and the lasting impact of Black heritage on Belle Meade and the American thoroughbred industry. Our goal is to create an educational experience that encourages reflection, conversation, and a deeper understanding of the people whose labor built this historic site.

Your Journey to Jubilee ticket also includes admission to the Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery grounds from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on the day of your visit, giving you plenty of time to experience everything the property has to offer. Enjoy lunch at The Belle Meade Meat & Three (open daily 11:00 AM-3:00 PM) or Fox Run Café (open Friday-Sunday, 11:00 AM-4:30 PM), grab a coffee or sweet treat at The Coop 'N' Scoop (open daily 9:00 AM-4:30 PM), sip and shop at Belle Meade Winery (open daily 9:30 AM-5:00 PM), or unwind with a handcrafted cocktail at Bonnie's Bourbon & Wine Bar (open daily 11:00 AM-5:00 PM).

While you're here, take time to explore our 30+ acres of beautifully preserved grounds, visit our resident horses, Nelson and Alibi (April-October), and enjoy live music in the Wine Garden on weekends from April through November, 12:30 PM-3:00 PM.

Please plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time to check in at the Visitor's Center. From there, it is approximately a 5-minute walk to the start of the tour. Tours begin promptly at the scheduled time. Guests who arrive late may be accommodated on the next available tour if space permits, but availability cannot be guaranteed.

Please Note: This tour discusses the realities of slavery, including difficult and sensitive historical subject matter. We generally recommend this experience for guests ages 12 and older. Families with younger children may be interested in our Stories of Slavery & Freedom program, which presents this history in an age-appropriate format.