Major Landmarks in Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville, Tennessee, is often referred to as the “Music City” and is widely recognized as the heart of country music. However, the city’s significance extends beyond its musical heritage to a deep historical and cultural foundation that has made it one of the most vibrant cities in the southern United States. Founded in 1779, Nashville quickly became an important economic hub due to its strategic location on the Cumberland River. It played pivotal roles during the American Civil War, particularly in battles fought nearby, and in the 20th century, became the country’s center for music production, performance, and publishing. In addition to its rich musical history, Nashville offers a wide array of historical and natural landmarks that highlight its role in American history and its beautiful surroundings. Visitors to Nashville can experience its historic roots and explore its scenic outdoor spaces.
Historical Landmarks in Nashville
Nashville’s historical landmarks offer a glimpse into its past, showcasing its importance in American history, from its involvement in the Civil War to its pivotal role in the development of country music. These sites provide visitors with insights into the city’s cultural and political legacy.
1. The Parthenon
Landmark Overview
The Parthenon in Nashville is a full-scale replica of the ancient Greek Parthenon in Athens, Greece, and is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1897 as part of the Tennessee Centennial Exposition, the structure is located in Centennial Park and serves as a symbol of Nashville’s nickname, the “Athens of the South,” due to the city’s dedication to education and the arts. The Parthenon is both an architectural marvel and a museum, housing a permanent art collection, including 19th and 20th-century American paintings. The centerpiece of the Parthenon is the massive 42-foot statue of Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom and war, making it the largest indoor statue in the Western Hemisphere.
Location
The Parthenon is located in Centennial Park at 2500 West End Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203.
Ticket Price
Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and children, and free for children under 4.
Nearby Airports
Nashville International Airport (BNA) is located approximately 10 miles from the Parthenon.
Highways
The Parthenon is accessible via Interstate 40 (I-40) and U.S. Route 70.
Special Attentions
Visitors should plan to explore both the exterior and interior of the Parthenon. The park surrounding the structure offers beautiful grounds for picnicking and walking, while the interior features art exhibitions and the awe-inspiring Athena statue. Photography is permitted, but be mindful of museum rules inside the building.
2. Ryman Auditorium
Landmark Overview
Ryman Auditorium, often referred to as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” is one of Nashville’s most important and revered historical landmarks. Opened in 1892 as the Union Gospel Tabernacle, the Ryman became a central hub for country music when it served as the home of the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974. With its stunning Victorian Gothic architecture and renowned acoustics, the Ryman has hosted some of the most legendary performances in American music history, including artists like Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, and Elvis Presley. Today, the auditorium remains a premier performance venue while also serving as a museum that chronicles its storied past. Visitors can explore exhibits about the history of the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman’s role in shaping Nashville’s music industry.
Location
Ryman Auditorium is located at 116 5th Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37219.
Ticket Price
Admission for self-guided tours is $25 for adults and $16 for children ages 4-11. Guided backstage tours are also available for an additional fee.
Nearby Airports
Nashville International Airport (BNA) is located about 9 miles from the Ryman Auditorium.
Highways
The Ryman is accessible via Interstate 24 (I-24), Interstate 65 (I-65), and Interstate 40 (I-40).
Special Attentions
The Ryman is an active performance venue, so visitors should check the schedule for shows or events during their visit. Backstage tours are highly recommended for music enthusiasts who want a deeper look into the history of the venue. Tickets for both tours and shows can sell out quickly, so it’s best to book in advance.
3. Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery
Landmark Overview
Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery is a beautiful Greek Revival mansion that once served as one of the largest and most prosperous thoroughbred horse plantations in the South. Built in 1853, the mansion was home to the Harding family, who became famous for their horse breeding operation, producing some of the most successful racehorses in history. Visitors can take guided tours of the mansion, which is furnished with period antiques, and learn about the Harding family’s legacy, the history of horse racing in America, and the lives of the enslaved individuals who worked on the estate. The site also includes a winery, where guests can enjoy tastings of locally produced wines. Belle Meade’s sprawling grounds, gardens, and historic outbuildings make it a picturesque destination for history lovers.
Location
Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery is located at 5025 Harding Pike, Nashville, TN 37205.
Ticket Price
Admission for guided mansion tours is $24 for adults, $13 for children ages 6-18, and free for children under 6. Wine tastings are included in the adult ticket price.
Nearby Airports
Nashville International Airport (BNA) is about 15 miles from Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery.
Highways
The site is accessible via Interstate 440 (I-440) and U.S. Route 70.
Special Attentions
Wine tastings are available for guests aged 21 and over. Belle Meade also offers special events, including culinary tours, historic reenactments, and outdoor festivals, so check the schedule before visiting. Reservations are recommended for guided tours, particularly during peak tourist seasons.
Natural Landmarks in Nashville
Beyond its rich historical landmarks, Nashville is surrounded by beautiful natural areas that offer outdoor recreation and scenic beauty. These natural landmarks are perfect for visitors who want to experience the lush landscapes and tranquil settings of Tennessee’s countryside.
1. Radnor Lake State Park
Landmark Overview
Radnor Lake State Park is one of the most scenic natural landmarks in the Nashville area, offering visitors a tranquil escape into nature. This 1,368-acre park is centered around Radnor Lake, a protected natural area known for its serene atmosphere and rich biodiversity. The park features over six miles of hiking trails, with paths that wind through forests, wetlands, and along the lake’s shoreline. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy the chance to observe a variety of species, including deer, otters, herons, and more than 200 species of birds. Radnor Lake is also a designated State Natural Area, which means it is preserved for the protection of wildlife and natural resources, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching, photography, and peaceful hikes.
Location
Radnor Lake State Park is located at 1160 Otter Creek Road, Nashville, TN 37220, approximately 10 miles south of downtown Nashville.
Ticket Price
There is no admission fee to enter Radnor Lake State Park.
Nearby Airports
Nashville International Airport (BNA) is located about 11 miles from Radnor Lake State Park.
Highways
The park is accessible via Interstate 65 (I-65) and Tennessee State Route 100.
Special Attentions
Radnor Lake State Park is a conservation area, so activities like biking and picnicking are restricted to designated areas. Dogs are only allowed on the Otter Creek Road trail, so plan accordingly if visiting with pets. The park is open year-round, but certain trails may be closed during inclement weather or for conservation purposes.
2. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
Landmark Overview
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is a 55-acre botanical garden and historic estate located in the rolling hills of West Nashville. Originally built in 1929 as the private residence of the Cheek family (known for their success in the Maxwell House Coffee business), the estate is now a public museum and garden that offers a blend of art, history, and nature. The estate’s gardens feature beautifully manicured landscapes, including a Japanese garden, a water garden, and seasonal floral displays. Visitors can also explore the mansion, which houses an impressive art collection, including contemporary works and decorative arts. Cheekwood is a popular destination for families and garden enthusiasts, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustling downtown.
Location
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is located at 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville, TN 37205.
Ticket Price
Admission is $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, and $13 for children ages 3-17. Children under 3 enter for free.
Nearby Airports
Nashville International Airport (BNA) is located about 15 miles from Cheekwood Estate & Gardens.
Highways
The estate is accessible via Interstate 440 (I-440) and U.S. Route 70.
Special Attentions
Cheekwood hosts seasonal events, including garden tours, art exhibitions, and holiday light displays, so check the schedule in advance. The grounds are expansive, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The estate also offers dining options, but picnicking is not allowed within the gardens.
3. Percy Warner Park
Landmark Overview
Percy Warner Park is part of the larger Warner Parks system, one of the largest municipal parks in Tennessee, offering more than 3,100 acres of natural beauty and outdoor recreation. Located on the western edge of Nashville, Percy Warner Park features hiking and equestrian trails, scenic vistas, and picnic areas. The park is particularly known for its sweeping meadows, forested trails, and the grand entrance at Belle Meade Boulevard, marked by stone steps leading to miles of trails. Percy Warner Park’s hiking trails range from easy to challenging, making it a great destination for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers. The park is also home to the Warner Park Nature Center, which offers educational programs and exhibits about local wildlife and ecosystems.
Location
Percy Warner Park is located at 7311 Highway 100, Nashville, TN 37221.
Ticket Price
There is no admission fee to enter Percy Warner Park.
Nearby Airports
Nashville International Airport (BNA) is located about 20 miles from Percy Warner Park.
Highways
The park is accessible via Interstate 40 (I-40) and Tennessee State Route 100.
Special Attentions
Percy Warner Park is open year-round, but the trails can become muddy after rain, so proper footwear is advised. The park offers equestrian trails, and visitors should be mindful of horses on shared trails. The park’s scenic overlooks are particularly beautiful during fall foliage season, making it an ideal time to visit.
