Where are all of the gardens in Tennessee hiding amid all of the industrial boom we have experienced? Finding a beautiful garden has proven to be a difficult thing, nowadays. There are still those sweet places out behind your grandparents' houses, full of memories and fond childhood moments. Does anyone else have these precious moments stored away in the back of your mind? Now that we've all managed to make it to adulthood, however, where do you find that solace that seems to be lost to your younger self? Well. Tennessee has five beautiful places, spanning the whole of the state, that may give you that breath of fresh air that you need. Take a look!
1. Knoxville Botanical Gardens and Arboretum, Knoxville
The Knoxville Botanical Gardens and Arboretum is only a 5-minute drive from downtown and is free to the public. This is an amazing place to get away from the busy city and connect with nature as you meander through the beautiful gardens. There are stone walls, historical buildings, and many unique flowers and plant life to enjoy in the garden. Take a day trip on a nice sunny day and soak in this green space in Knoxville.
2. The Delta Atrium in the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, Nashville
This stunning garden is located inside the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center. The environment inside allows for a totally unique experience all year long with tropical plants freely growing. Many of the plants found in the Delta Atrium could not grow outside in our capital city, so to be found here is a real treat. You are free to explore and marvel at the glorious tropical setting. Witness a waterfall and even take a boat ride out in the water. With so much to do, you might forget altogether that you are indoors.
3. The Hermitage, Home of Andrew Jackson, Nashville
The former home of President Andrew Jackson boasts sprawling gardens that are kept up by the house staff to this day. Supposedly, his wife Rachel loved the flowers and thus was buried there after her death. The Hermitage is a great garden to explore to soak in the natural beauty and while you are there chances are you will learn a great history lesson too.
4. Memphis Botanic Garden, Memphis
The Memphis Botanic Garden is considered by many to be the best garden in all of Tennessee. It is easy to see why with walking paths, a wide range of different flowers, and even multiple gardens to showcase plants from around the world. Kids will have fun with an interactive children's area, and if you are just looking for a relaxing stroll then this is the place for you.
5. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, Nashville
Cheekwood is the perfect blend of natural beauty mixed with artistic expression. The mansion and the gardens have seasonal rotations of displays and artists so it is worth visiting time and time again. A museum sits at the center of the 55-acre Cheekwood Botanical Garden, a place that consistently brings in solid art exhibits and is a top Nashville proposal spot.
6. UT Gardens, Knoxville/ Crossville/ Jackson
UT Gardens are located in three cities across Tennessee, Knoxville, Crossville, and Jackson. These wonderful gardens will transport you on a whimsical adventure through flowers, plants, and various biomes. There are stunning set pieces throughout the garden as well as a fun area for the kids.
What is your favorite out of these gardens in Tennessee? It is hard to choose which one is the best because we love them all so much. Let us know what is your favorite in the comments.
If you want to spend the night in a garden then these two experiences are perfect for you. Pick your own lavender and stay the night on the farm or sleep in an open-air barndomimum on a flower farm. For more amazing stays check out our video for some of the best spring locations to visit (We'll give you a hint, Tennessee's national park is on the list):
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