Cheekwood, Middle Tennessee Travel Guide

4.7 (5242)

Explore Cheekwood, Nashville's premier botanical garden and art museum, where nature and creativity come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Cheekwood is a stunning botanical garden and art museum nestled in Nashville, offering tourists a unique blend of natural beauty, art, and history. Explore its diverse gardens, art exhibitions, and historical landmarks that captivate visitors of all ages.

A brief summary to Cheekwood

1200 Forrest Park Dr, Nashville, Tennessee, 37205, US
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Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cheekwood.

Visit during spring or fall to experience the gardens in full bloom and vibrant colors.
Check the calendar for special events, such as art shows or seasonal festivals, for a unique experience.
Consider a picnic in the gardens; there are beautiful spots where you can relax and enjoy a meal.
Wear comfortable shoes as the gardens cover a large area and require a good amount of walking.
Plan your visit on a Thursday evening for extended hours and a chance to experience the gardens at sunset.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

The Parthenon

Tennessee State Museum

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

TITANIC Museum Attraction

The Lost Sea Adventure

Explore Cheekwood on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Cheekwood, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

If you are driving from downtown Nashville, take I-40 W from 4th Ave N. Merge onto I-440 W towards Memphis. Take exit 1B for US-431 N/West End Ave. Continue on US-431 N for about 3 miles. Turn left onto Forrest Park Dr. Cheekwood will be on your right at 1200 Forrest Park Dr, Nashville, TN 37205. There is free parking available on-site.
Public Transportation (Bus)

To reach Cheekwood via public transportation, take the Music City Star commuter train from downtown Nashville to the Hermitage station. From there, you will need to transfer to bus route 10 (West End) towards West Nashville. Get off at the stop near the intersection of West End Ave and Forrest Park Dr, then walk about 0.5 miles south on Forrest Park Dr to reach Cheekwood. Be sure to check the current bus schedule on the Nashville MTA website for any potential fare costs.
Rideshare

Using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft is a convenient option. Simply enter 'Cheekwood' or the address '1200 Forrest Park Dr, Nashville, TN 37205' into the app. The cost will vary based on your starting point, but expect to pay between $10 to $30 from downtown Nashville depending on traffic and time of day.
Bicycle

For those who prefer cycling, you can bike to Cheekwood from nearby neighborhoods. Use the bike lanes along West End Ave, and follow Forrest Park Dr to Cheekwood. There are bike racks available on-site for parking. Make sure to wear a helmet and follow local traffic laws. Note that cycling from downtown Nashville is approximately a 5-mile ride.

Discover more about Cheekwood

Cheekwood is not merely a botanical garden; it is a serene escape into a world where nature and art harmoniously coexist. Situated in the heart of Nashville, this expansive estate features over 55 acres of beautifully manicured gardens, showcasing a diverse array of flora that changes with the seasons. Visitors can stroll through the fragrant herb garden, admire the vibrant colors of the perennial garden, or relax by the tranquil water features that dot the landscape. Each garden area tells a different story, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural world.In addition to its botanical offerings, Cheekwood is home to a remarkable art museum that features rotating exhibitions of both contemporary and historical works. The museum is housed in the historic Cheek mansion, which itself is a testament to the grandeur of the early 20th century. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive collection of American art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.Cheekwood also serves as a historical landmark, with its roots dating back to the 1920s when it was built as a private estate. The architecture and landscape design reflect the artistic vision of its original owners, the Cheek family, who were instrumental in the development of Nashville. This blend of history and artistry makes Cheekwood a must-visit destination for tourists seeking a deeper understanding of Nashville's cultural landscape.Whether you're wandering through the lush gardens, enjoying a family-friendly event, or contemplating a piece of art in the museum, Cheekwood offers a unique experience that combines education, relaxation, and inspiration. It is an ideal location for a leisurely day out, a romantic stroll, or even a picturesque wedding venue set against the backdrop of nature's beauty.