For Taylor Swift fans, the Dark Horse Estate in Franklin, Tennessee, is a must-visit destination, with a special connection to the Grammy-winning star.
This stunning property is where Taylor recorded part of her debut album, Taylor Swift, when she was just 15 years old. It’s not only a piece of music history but also an opportunity for fans to experience the magic where it all began.
Located just 25 minutes from downtown Nashville, the Dark Horse Estate is a sprawling 14,000-square-foot mansion called The Manor. It can host up to 18 guests, offering plenty of space for large groups.
On the other side of the estate, there are three private recording studios housed in a timber-frame building, where Taylor recorded some of her early music.
Robin Crow, the current owner of the estate, remembers the time when a young Taylor Swift spent weeks recording at the property. He recalls meeting her a few times, never imagining how big of a star she would become.
“At the time, I think I met her once or twice in the couple of weeks that she was recording here, and I never gave it a second thought,” Crow says. “And now, she’s the biggest artist in the world.”
Through the years, Crow has seen many artists pass through Dark Horse Estate to record, including famous acts like Kings of Leon and Shawn Mendes. “I’ve seen record companies throw so much money behind an artist and nothing will happen,” he notes. “Then you have another situation like Taylor Swift, and it’s just magic, everything kind of lines up.”
Now, fans can experience the magic for themselves. The Manor, which is available to rent on Airbnb, has seven bedrooms, ten bathrooms, and multiple living areas. With stunning features like a 34-foot-long fireplace, a billiard room, a library, and a media room, it’s the perfect place for an escape.
The estate also has a party barn for events and gatherings. For Swifties looking to stay on the property, a two-night stay in April starts at $4,958.
While many of the estate’s visitors are professional musicians, Crow welcomes other creative groups, offering the space for workshops, retreats, or even a large gathering of Taylor Swift fans. “It’s an artistic gathering place,” Crow says, “where people can get away and have a different experience.”
If you’re looking to step into the world where Taylor Swift’s career began, Dark Horse Estate is the place to be—where history, music, and magic come together.
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