Best Parks in Nashville
Looking for an outdoor space in Nashville to spend an afternoon or take a walk?
The Nashville metro area contains more than 120 parks and greenways encompassing over 12,000 acres. Attractions range from small neighborhood parks to large expanses of lawn that host outdoor concerts and cultural festivals. Nature trails enable you to explore the indigenous flora and fauna. These urban oases offer a range of amenities, including public art, memorials, picnic shelters and playground equipment. Many parks in Nashville are dog friendly.
Downtown Nashville
CENTENNIAL PARK
One of the city’s premier urban green spaces, the fully accessible, 132-acre Centennial Park is the setting for the iconic Parthenon. There is a scenic lake, nature trails and historic monuments as well as a dog park. The park’s band shell hosts outdoor concerts and festivals.
Operating Hours: Dawn to 11 p.m.
CUMBERLAND PARK
Located across the river from downtown Nashville, Cumberland Park is an interactive play space featuring a splash zone, rock climbing wall and a small amphitheater. A nature trail winds through an area that attracts butterflies.
Operating Hours: Dawn to 11 p.m.
FORT NEGLEY PARK
The site of the largest inland fort constructed during the Civil War, Fort Negley Park is an outdoor recreation venue. Located approximately two miles south of downtown, the attraction has a visitor center with interactive exhibits, great views of the city skyline and trails for walking leashed dogs.
Operating Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
RIVERFRONT PARK
Situated on the west bank of the Cumberland River in downtown, Riverfront Park is the city’s favorite venue for outdoor festivals, concerts and other special events. The expansive lawn provides wonderful views of the river while you picnic.
Operating Hours: Dawn to 11 p.m.
FANNIE MAE DEES PARK
Colloquially known as Dragon Park for its eponymous mosaic sculpture, this urban green space includes a fort and playground. This park is located in the Hillsboro-West End neighborhood. The popular park is wheelchair accessible and has plenty of shade trees.
Operating Hours: 24 hours
South Nashville
SEVIER PARK
Located in the 12 South neighborhood, this 20-acre park offers a convenient setting for the perfect picnic. Fun and lively Sevier Park features a small playground and pathways along a creek in the shadow of antebellum Sunnyside Mansion.
Operating Hours: 24 hours
RADNOR LAKE STATE PARK
The 1200-acre preserve is home to a wide range of wildlife, including beavers, deer, turtles and more than 240 species of birds. Hikers enjoy a network of scenic trails. The park is accessible to strollers, wheelchairs and dog walkers.
Operating Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
EDWIN AND PERCY WARNER PARKS
These two nature areas encompass over 3,100 acres of fields, forests, and recreational areas. Located nine miles from downtown, they include hiking, biking and riding trails as well as scenic roadways and overlooks. There is a dog park and several picnic shelters.
Operating Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
East Nashville
SHELBY PARK
Situated on the bank of the Cumberland River east of downtown, the park offers ball fields, golf courses and boat ramps. Along with a dog park, there is a small pond and a network of nature trails. The park encompasses over 800 acres of woods and wetlands that are a prime birding area.
TWO RIVERS PARK
Home to the historic Two Rivers Mansion, the 374-acre green space also includes a wave pool, skate park and golf course. Open dawn to dusk, the park contains more recreational activities than any other park in the city. There is also an off-leash dog park.
Parks in Nashville enable you to enjoy fresh air and beautiful green spaces. When visiting the Music City, be sure to include these amazing recreational and nature areas on your itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the must-see parks in Nashville?
Nashville boasts an impressive variety of parks and natural havens that enchant residents and tourists alike. Centennial Park, housing the iconic Parthenon replica, beckons with vast green expanses ideal for leisurely walks and picnics. Another hidden gem, Radnor Lake State Park, invites with peaceful trails and wildlife sightings, a haven for nature aficionados. Nestled in downtown Nashville, Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park offers a historical narrative through its World War II Memorial and panoramic views of the Capitol building. Each park captures Nashville’s serene beauty and offers an escape from its vibrant music scene.
Which activities are available to enjoy in the parks of Nashville?
Nashville’s parks cater to a diverse range of activities for people of all ages, appealing to both the adventurous and those seeking tranquility. You can traverse picturesque hiking and biking trails winding through lush landscapes, join educational nature walks to discover local flora and fauna, or engage in community sports leagues. For water lovers, kayaking and paddleboarding on the lakes offer a refreshing outdoor experience. Moreover, many parks host cultural events and concerts, blending entertainment with the splendor of nature.
Are there any hidden gem parks in Nashville worth exploring?
Nashville is home to several hidden gem parks that are worth exploring. One such park is Beaman Park, located in the northwest area of Nashville. This park offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, with its lush forest, rugged terrain, and meandering creeks. It’s a haven for hikers, bird watchers, and anyone in need of a tranquil escape into nature. Additionally, its diverse ecosystems and scenic beauty make it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the essence of Tennessee’s natural landscapes.
What amenities are available at the Nashville parks?
The parks offer a wide array of amenities designed to accommodate the needs and interests of visitors of all ages. These include well-maintained playgrounds for children, picnic areas with barbecue grills for family gatherings, and scenic walking and biking trails for those seeking to immerse themselves in nature. For fitness enthusiasts, many parks feature outdoor fitness equipment and sports courts. Additionally, some parks provide boat launches, fishing piers, and designated swimming areas to cater to water sports enthusiasts. With these diverse amenities, the parks serve as a versatile destination for recreation, relaxation, and community engagement.
