If you are looking for a way to refresh and rejuvenate the way you see Nashville, Tennessee, then there's nothing quite like spending time in nature. We've put together a scenic road trip that will take you from one side of downtown to the next, from parks to scenic viewing points perfect for your enjoyment. There's nothing quite like an afternoon spent on the banks of the Cumberland River, and we will never get over the beauty of Shelby Park. If you haven't been, we can help you discover your favorite new-to-me Nashville spots. Take this scenic road trip near Nashville next time you're feeling adventurous.
You can follow along on our road trip on Google Maps.
Here's a quick look at our route. We'll be traveling from one side of the city to the next, but you will find that each location is easily accessible from downtown and the main tourist districts.
1. The Warner Parks
The Warner Parks refers to two Nashville public parks, Edwin Warner Park and Percy Warner Park. Both are managed by the city and are known for preserving the great outdoors in a stunning, beautifully expansive way. Expect a myriad of hiking trails throughout the parks, and you can visit the Warner Park Nature Center for community experiences and educational opportunities.
2. Belle Meade Mansion
If you'd like to learn a bit more about deep Nashville history then we would recommend visiting the Belle Meade Mansion and Winery. The home dates back to the mid-19th century and is a great place to see Greek Revival-style architecture. You can tour the estate's original giving space, stable, carriage house, and slave quarters with the purchase of admission, and the Southern Food Traditions Tour will give you the chance to learn about iconic culinary foods in the American South.
Enjoy this charming first-person tour of the Mansion:
3. Love Circle Park
Love Circle Park is a local lovers lane, a small hill that sits above Nashville's West End district and offers views of the downtown skyline. You can park your car along the circular roadway and set up shop on the small shelf of grass at the location's peak. Expect a couple of quirky folks enjoying the view alongside you!
Check out the view from Love Circle Park in Nashville in beautiful 4k:
4. Riverfront Park
Riverfront Park was first established in downtown Nashville in the 1980s, and the five-acre plot of land that borders downtown and the Cumberland River has become a popular spot for tourists and local events. Open-air concerts are held here throughout the year, and the ease of access from Broadway to the park makes it a great place to clear your head after a mind-boggling afternoon spent on HonkyTonk Highway.
5. Cumberland Park
You can find Cumberland Park tucked between the Shelby Street Pedestrian Bridge and Korean Veterans Memorial Bridge on the eastern side of the Cumberland River. After opening in the spring of 2012 it has become a prime spot for parents due to its innovative take on outdoor play. Expect a splash pad during the summertime and plenty of opportunity for playground fun the rest of the year. It's also a great spot for folks to jog through on their morning run with its fabulous views of the river.
6. Shelby Bottoms Greenway
Shelby Bottoms Greenway is one of the most beautiful, scenic locations in the city of Nashville. At 960-acres in total, this East Nashville park is perfect for running, cycling, and outdoor adventuring. The Nature Center on-site offers a handful of educational opportunities throughout the year, and the greenway borders the riverfront for stunning views. If you come in the springtime you will be treated to a myriad of wildflowers, too!
Check out what it's like to ride the Shelby Bottoms Greenway firsthand:
How many of these Nashville spots have you been to? Will you be taking this neat scenic road trip near Nashville sometime soon? We have a feeling you just might find a favorite new spot along the way.
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