Plan Your Visit

Experience Historic Rock Castle in Hendersonville, TN

Whether you’re planning a day trip from Nashville or looking for unique things to do in Hendersonville, TN, Historic Rock Castle offers an unforgettable blend of history, scenic beauty, and community experiences.

From guided tours of the oldest home in Middle Tennessee to seasonal events and family-friendly programs, every visit offers something new to discover.

Historical reenactor woodworking outdoors at traditional crafts fair, demonstrating antique carpentry techniques with vintage tools and period costume, educational heritage event with trees in background. Rock Castle, Hendersonville TN

Living History Days: Reenactments and demonstrations take place each fall at Rock Castle State Historic Site. View our Events Calendar for a list of events.

Historic Rock Castle is open April through mid-December.

Tuesday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Sunday & Monday: Closed

Please note: The site may occasionally close for private events such as weddings. We recommend calling ahead to confirm availability.

Closed on:
Independence Day (July 4)
Thanksgiving Weekend (Thursday–Sunday)

Looking for historic tours near Nashville? Our guided tours offer an immersive experience inside one of Tennessee’s most significant historic homes.

Tuesday–Friday: 10:00 AM | 11:30 AM | 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM | 11:30 AM | 1:30 PM
Sunday & Monday: Closed

All interior tours are guided experiences only, designed to bring the stories of Rock Castle to life. Reservations are highly recommended, as tours may fill up or be limited due to special events.

Adults: $10.00
Seniors (60+): $9.00
Children (Ages 5–12): $8.00
Active Military (with ID): $9.00

Group Tours (10+ guests): Available by appointment only $8.00 per person

To help preserve this historic landmark for future generations:

Tours of the home are guide-led only
No animals permitted inside the historic home
No video recording inside the home
Photography is encouraged throughout the property

Events and Seasonal Experiences

Rock Castle hosts events year-round, making it one of the most engaging historic attractions near Nashville.

Enjoy:

Open-air summer and fall concerts
Frontier and American Girl Camps
Living History Days with reenactors
Easter egg hunt and seasonal celebrations
Halloween experiences and family events
Rock Castle hosts events year-round, making it one of the most engaging historic attractions near Nashville.

Colorful outdoor party with festive decorations, balloons, and a costumed entertainer waving near a long table set for an event in a park setting. Rock Castle, Hendersonville TN

Tours and Experiences

Historic dining room with wooden paneling, fireplace, antique chairs, and a window overlooking greenery; decorated shelves and a central table create a traditional, elegant atmosphere. Rock Castle, Hendersonville TN

Explore, Experience, and Connect with History

At Historic Rock Castle, every visit is more than a tour; it’s an opportunity to step into the past, explore scenic landscapes, and experience one of the most unique historic attractions near Nashville, TN.

From guided tours to peaceful nature walks, there’s something here for every kind of visitor.

Historic stone house with lush flower garden, gravel path, and stone bench, surrounded by green lawn and trees. Perfect example of traditional cottage landscaping and architecture. Rock Castle, Hendersonville TN

Guided Historic Tours

Step inside Sumner County’s only State Historic Site and experience the story of Rock Castle through a guided tour of the interior.

Led by knowledgeable guides, these immersive tours bring to life the world of General Daniel Smith and Sarah Michie Smith, offering a deeper understanding of their lives, their legacy, and their role in shaping early Tennessee.

Walk through the limestone halls of the oldest home in Middle Tennessee and discover the craftsmanship, culture, and stories that have stood the test of time for over 200 years.

Visitor Center and Gift Shop

Begin your visit at the Visitor Center, where friendly staff are ready to help you plan your experience.

Here you can:

Purchase tour tickets
Learn about upcoming events in Hendersonville, TN
Discover concerts, workshops, and seasonal programs
Browse unique gifts and local items

Take a piece of Rock Castle home with you, including the acclaimed Historic: Your Sumner coffee table book, featuring photography by Pulitzer Prize winner Robin Hood.

Aerial view of a waterfront property with a large house, lush green lawn, trees, and a scenic lake with boats, ideal for luxury real estate and peaceful living. Rock Castle, Hendersonville TN

Old Hickory Lake Views

Nestled along the shoreline, Rock Castle offers stunning views of Old Hickory Lake, one of the most scenic spots in Sumner County.

Created in the 1950s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the lake transformed the landscape into the beautiful setting visitors enjoy today.

It’s the perfect backdrop for:

Weddings and private events
Picnics and relaxation
Camps and outdoor activities like canoeing

Two people walking on a gravel path through a wooded forest trail in daylight, surrounded by tall green trees and nature. Rock Castle, Hendersonville TN

Gardens and Nature Trails

Looking for outdoor things to do near Nashville? Explore 18 acres of peaceful grounds, including:

Herb gardens
Wooded nature trails
Open green spaces for picnics and family outings

Whether you’re enjoying a quiet walk or spending the afternoon with family, the grounds are always free to explore during operating hours.

Smith Family Cemetery

Step into a quieter part of Rock Castle’s story at the Smith Family Cemetery.

This historic burial ground is the final resting place of over fifty members of the Smith family, including Daniel and Sarah Michie Smith.

Surrounded by a stone fence crafted from the same limestone as the home, the cemetery offers a powerful, reflective connection to the generations who lived, worked, and shaped this land.

Admission is free and open to visitors.

Something for Every Visit

Whether you’re planning a historic tour near Nashville, a relaxing afternoon outdoors, or a meaningful cultural experience, Rock Castle offers a blend of history, nature, and community you won’t find anywhere else.

Tour Schedule

Tours may be limited during special events. Reservations are recommended.