Discover the Natural Beauty of Shelby Park
Explore the lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and recreational activities at Shelby Park, Nashville's urban oasis in East Nashville.
Shelby Park is an expansive urban park located in the heart of East Nashville, offering visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Spanning over 400 acres, the park features picturesque walking trails that wind through lush forests, open fields, and along the banks of the scenic Shelby Bottoms Greenway. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, a vigorous run, or a peaceful picnic amidst nature's splendor. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in the diverse range of animals that call Shelby Park home. From playful deer to a variety of interesting bird species, the park offers ample opportunities for wildlife observation. Bring your binoculars and camera to capture the vibrant flora and fauna that thrive in this tranquil setting. For families, Shelby Park provides a range of amenities, including playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. Children can enjoy the playgrounds while adults relax under the shade of majestic trees. Additionally, the park hosts various community events throughout the year, fostering a sense of community and togetherness. Whether you are looking to unwind in nature, engage in outdoor activities, or simply enjoy a beautiful day in the fresh air, Shelby Park is a must-visit destination for tourists in Nashville. Don't forget to explore the nearby Shelby Bottoms Greenway, which connects to the park and offers even more opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a more peaceful experience and the best chance to see wildlife.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on one of the park's many benches or open grassy areas.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and wildlife.
- Check the park's event calendar for family-friendly activities and community events.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking or jogging on the trails.
A brief summary to Shelby Park
- Shelby Ave & S 20th St, Nashville, East Nashville, TN, 37206, US
- +1615-862-8467
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-11 pm
- Thursday 6 am-11 pm
- Friday 6 am-11 pm
- Saturday 6 am-11 pm
- Sunday 6 am-11 pm
Getting There
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Public Bus
If you are starting from downtown Nashville, walk to the Music City Central bus station located at 400 Charlotte Ave, Nashville, TN 37219. From there, take the bus number 26 (Shelby Park) towards the east. The bus will take you directly to Shelby Ave & S 20th St, which is the intersection closest to Shelby Park. The journey typically takes around 30 minutes depending on traffic.
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Bicycle
For a scenic ride, you can rent a bike from one of the many bike-sharing stations around downtown Nashville. Head east on Broadway and then take a left onto 11th Ave N. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Shelby Ave, then turn right. Follow Shelby Ave until you reach Shelby Park. The ride is approximately 3 miles and should take around 15-20 minutes.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk from downtown Nashville, start at the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge. Cross the Cumberland River and head towards 1st Ave N. Continue on 1st Ave N until you reach the intersection with Shelby Ave. Turn left onto Shelby Ave and walk straight for about 1.5 miles until you arrive at Shelby Park. This walk will take approximately 30-40 minutes and offers beautiful views of the river and the park.
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Rideshare
Using a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft is a convenient option. Simply open the app and enter 'Shelby Ave & S 20th St, Nashville, TN 37206' as your destination. A driver will pick you up from your location and take you directly to Shelby Park. The drive time can vary but usually takes around 10-15 minutes from downtown.
Attractions Nearby to Shelby Park
- Tennessee Central Railway Museum
- K1 Speed - Indoor Go Karts, Corporate Event Venue, Team Building Activities
- Cumberland Park
- Steepest pavement in Middle Tennessee
- Lane Motor Museum
- John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge
- Buffalo Statues
- Fort Nashborough
- Old Town Trolley Tours Nashville
- 2nd Avenue Historic District
- Johnny Cash Museum
- Patsy Cline Museum
- The Escape Game Nashville (Downtown)
- Riverfront Park
- Nashville Public Square Park
Landmarks nearby to Shelby Park
- Weakley-Truett-Clark House
- Miles House
- The Station
- McGavock House
- Historic Commercial Structure - Broadway Historic District
- Music City Center
- Me and my coworker
- Church Street Park
- Customs House Nashville
- Tomb of Royal and Select Masters
- Legislative Plaza
- Andrew Jackson Statue
- Tennessee State Capitol
- The Savage House
- Tennessee Map Plaza