One of the Best Historic Nashville Hotels

Whether you’ve been to Nashville hundreds of times or it’s your first visit, there’s something special about staying on a property listed on the National Register of Historic Places, exuding the feeling of the Old South. And as one of the best historic Nashville hotels, the Belle Air Mansion has been meticulously restored and modernized for the comfort of our guests. You’ll see that through our restoration, we’ve maintained the original architectural details and elegance of the period. We kept elements from the past (and the stories that come with them) alive to be appreciated while upgrading our amenities to the 21st century. 

As you step foot into our fine example of historic Nashville hotels, you’ll see the grand opulence in every inch. Our space exudes luxury, from ornate fireplaces and glimmering chandeliers to original heart pine floors and a collection of antique and recreation furnishings. The lofty 13-foot ceilings (and the 27 chandeliers) add to the grandeur that you really must see for yourself to believe. We offer a diverse layout and various lodging options—ideal for romantic getaways, couples retreats, or family vacations. We can even host weddings where the entire property is yours. 

We also include a fantastic breakfast each morning of your stay. Our rotating menu includes Southern classics with sweet and savory dishes, fresh fruit, and baked goods, always paired with piping hot coffee, tea, and juice. Not all historic Nashville hotels include this perk in their lodging, and it’s the best way to start your day. For the true history buffs, be sure to ask for a tour of the mansion and grounds during your stay! Reserve your lodging today.

Photo of a room at one of the best Historic Nashville Hotels

One of the Most Elegant Historic Nashville Hotels

Constructed in 1832, Belle Air Mansion is one of Nashville’s few remaining Greek Revival antebellum mansions. As one of the best historic Nashville hotels, it’s significant due to the elegant architecture, and it’s a stunning example of the great houses of the well-to-do Southern landowners in the first half of the nineteenth century. Here are a few facts and historical tidbits that make our historic Nashville hotel one of the best places to stay in Tennessee. 

  1. It’s hard to believe, but the original structure was constructed in 1790 as a four-room residence made of hand-made brick with lime and horsehair mortar. One of the original brick walls still remains in the 1790 Loft room, a double room suite with two queen size beds and an elegant en suite bath. 
  2. Joseph Clay and Elizabeth Harding added the larger structure to the property in 1832.
  3. In 1838, banker William Nichol and his wife Julia Lytle expanded the Federal-style house with one-story wings and added Greek Revival ornamentation.
  4. Belle Air Mansion was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1971. 
  5. Over the years, the mansion changed hands many times and fell into disrepair. Until Lewis and Connie James purchased the property in 2016, who then embarked on a long but rewarding journey to restore the mansion to its former glory. It now stands today as one of the most elegant historic Nashville hotels. 
  6. The current owner, Lewis James, serves as a historical reference to the property, offering guests insights into the renovations and history they uncovered during that time. If you meet him during your stay, be sure to get a tour! 
  7. The impeccably restored mansion is now a bed and breakfast and gathering space for locals and visitors alike, whether for company meetings, corporate retreats, elopements, weddings, or vacations. 
  8. Our historic Nashville hotel is only about four miles from the Nashville Airport and five and a half miles from downtown along Lebanon Pike. Our location is incredibly unique, as it sits on almost six acres and can be a retreat in the middle of the city.
Photo of a wedding at one of the best Historic Nashville Hotels

One of the Best Historic Nashville Hotels for Your Wedding

For those lucky enough to be planning an upcoming wedding, now that you know our property’s incredible history and restoration, imagine planning your special day surrounded by the storied Antebellum history, stunning architecture, period furnishings, and impeccably maintained grounds of our Nashville wedding venue. As one of the best historic Nashville hotels, you’ll see that it all blends perfectly together to create a romantic and beautiful ceremony and reception venue.

When planning a wedding, it’s also important to consider lodging accommodations for your guests. With 15 guest rooms and suites (many with multiple sleeping arrangements), your closest family and friends can stay right here at the mansion during the time leading up to and after your big day. As for the newlyweds, any of our rooms set the perfect tone for your first night together, but we often suggest the Bronze Tranquility room, also known as our honeymoon suite. Our Nashville wedding venue has it all! 

We offer indoor and outdoor options to host your wedding and reception, as well as talented and professional planners to help ensure your day is perfect from start to finish. If you’re interested in hosting your event at one of the best historic Nashville hotels, contact our wedding coordinator here. One of the best ways to get a feel for the space is to join us for a romantic getaway first; check our upcoming availability and reserve your room today! 

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Celebrate the Season with our Holiday Experiences

Make this time of year extra special with our unique holiday adventures that add a touch of magic to the season

Spring at Belle Air

Get ready to enjoy the Spring with the perfect experiences and activities in Nashville, tailored for both locals and guests of Belle Air Mansion. From horse back riding, elevated picnics, electric bike tours, and floral classes, we offer the best ways to experience Nashville’s vibrant season.

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