All Men Are Created Equal Tour

This 90-minute guided tour explores how America's founding ideals clashed with the reality of slavery, tracing the nation's history from its inception through the Civil War. You'll walk through the house and grounds of Rippa Villa while learning about the decades-long struggle over what equality truly meant and how disagreements over slavery gradually divided the country. What makes this tour special is that it's offered exclusively at this location—you won't find it anywhere else in Tennessee. The tour costs $29 per person and runs at 9 a.m. on Mondays and Fridays. Plan to arrive 15 minutes early. Tickets can be purchased online in advance. All proceeds from ticket sales support the creation of a new exhibit and museum at the Carter House visitor center, launching in 2026 with this same theme. This is a thoughtful option for older children and adults interested in understanding this pivotal period of American history in a meaningful, in-depth way.