Nashville may be world-famous for its music and nightlife, but beyond the lively streets, it also offers some of the most beautiful parks in the state. Whether you’re looking for a scenic spot to relax, a place to stretch your legs, or your next outdoor adventure, Nashville’s parks have something for everyone.
Centennial Park
Centennial Park stands as one of Nashville’s most cherished outdoor spaces. Located just minutes from downtown along West End Ave, this 132-acre park offers a mix of history and recreation. The park’s most striking feature is the full-scale replica of the Parthenon, a magnificent structure that echoes Nashville’s reputation as the "Athens of the South." Inside the Parthenon, you’ll find an art museum showcasing American artists, making it a perfect stop for creativity fans.
Outside, Centennial Park has so much to offer. Stroll around the peaceful Lake Watauga, which ducks and turtles call home, or enjoy the seasonal gardens bursting with color. The adjacent Centennial Sportsplex provides group fitness classes, swim meets, an ice skating rink, a tennis and pickleball program, and more.
The park is also a hub for community events, such as outdoor music festivals, art shows, and even fitness classes. Whether you’re there to explore its historical side or simply enjoy a sunny afternoon, Centennial Park is a lively oasis in the heart of the city.
Outside, Centennial Park has so much to offer. Stroll around the peaceful Lake Watauga, which ducks and turtles call home, or enjoy the seasonal gardens bursting with color. The adjacent Centennial Sportsplex provides group fitness classes, swim meets, an ice skating rink, a tennis and pickleball program, and more.
The park is also a hub for community events, such as outdoor music festivals, art shows, and even fitness classes. Whether you’re there to explore its historical side or simply enjoy a sunny afternoon, Centennial Park is a lively oasis in the heart of the city.
The Warner Parks
Spanning over 3,100 acres together, the Warner Parks — Percy Warner and Edwin Warner — are some of the largest and most beloved parks in Nashville. Located just southwest of the city, nine miles from downtown, these parks offer a variety of outdoor adventures that make them a go-to destination for both locals and visitors.
Percy Warner Park, with its rolling hills and picturesque trails, is a favorite among hikers, runners, equestrian enthusiasts, and cyclists. The park’s scenic drive and iconic stone steps at the Belle Meade Ave entrance create a breathtaking introduction to the miles of trails ahead. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Percy Warner’s trails offer a beautiful mix of forest, meadows, and wildlife.
Edwin Warner Park, while slightly smaller, is equally captivating. It’s known for its nature center, which offers educational exhibits, nature walks, and programs that help visitors learn more about Nashville’s local ecosystems. The park’s picnic areas, birdwatching spots, and wildflower meadows make it a perfect place to enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by nature.
Percy Warner Park, with its rolling hills and picturesque trails, is a favorite among hikers, runners, equestrian enthusiasts, and cyclists. The park’s scenic drive and iconic stone steps at the Belle Meade Ave entrance create a breathtaking introduction to the miles of trails ahead. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Percy Warner’s trails offer a beautiful mix of forest, meadows, and wildlife.
Edwin Warner Park, while slightly smaller, is equally captivating. It’s known for its nature center, which offers educational exhibits, nature walks, and programs that help visitors learn more about Nashville’s local ecosystems. The park’s picnic areas, birdwatching spots, and wildflower meadows make it a perfect place to enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by nature.
Shelby Bottoms Greenway and Natural Area
Shelby Bottoms Greenway and Natural Area is a hidden gem nestled along the Cumberland River. Just a few miles from downtown, this 960-acre park is a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility. The park’s flat, easy trails are perfect for walking or cycling, offering sweeping views of the river and surrounding wetlands, open fields, and forests.
Shelby Bottoms is also a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. You’ll likely spot herons, turtles, and other creatures as you explore the park’s winding paths. At the nature center, visitors can learn about the local ecosystem and take part in educational programs. Whether you’re on a solo nature walk or looking to immerse yourself in an urban wilderness, Shelby Bottoms is an ideal retreat.
Shelby Bottoms is also a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. You’ll likely spot herons, turtles, and other creatures as you explore the park’s winding paths. At the nature center, visitors can learn about the local ecosystem and take part in educational programs. Whether you’re on a solo nature walk or looking to immerse yourself in an urban wilderness, Shelby Bottoms is an ideal retreat.
Radnor Lake State Park
The 1,368-acre Radnor Lake State Park is one of Nashville’s top spots for those who want to reconnect with nature. A short drive from downtown, this peaceful park offers a pristine environment for wildlife watching, hiking, and scenic views. The star of the park is Radnor Lake, a serene body of water surrounded by lush forests that reflect beautifully on its surface.
With over seven miles of trails, Radnor Lake is perfect for both casual walkers and avid hikers. Keep an eye out for wildlife like deer, otters, and a variety of birds as you explore the landscapes. The trails wind through dense woodlands and around the lake, offering a chance to truly disconnect and enjoy the quiet of nature. Radnor Lake’s commitment to conservation makes it a beloved spot for those who appreciate the natural world at its finest.
With over seven miles of trails, Radnor Lake is perfect for both casual walkers and avid hikers. Keep an eye out for wildlife like deer, otters, and a variety of birds as you explore the landscapes. The trails wind through dense woodlands and around the lake, offering a chance to truly disconnect and enjoy the quiet of nature. Radnor Lake’s commitment to conservation makes it a beloved spot for those who appreciate the natural world at its finest.
Two Rivers Park
For those who enjoy staying active, Two Rivers Park is a must-visit destination. This 374-acre park, located along the Cumberland River, is known for its wide variety of recreational facilities. Whether you want to cool off at the wave pool, challenge yourself at the skate park, check out the Two Rivers Golf Course, or play on the sports fields, Two Rivers has it all.
A scenic greenway connects Two Rivers Park to the Shelby Bottoms Greenway, offering even more opportunities for biking or running. The park also boasts beautiful views of the river, perfect for a peaceful pause during an active day. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to combine fitness with a sense of outdoor adventure.
In the end, Nashville’s parks offer much more than just places to stretch your legs — they’re a chance to experience the city’s beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re a fan of peaceful nature walks, outdoor recreation, or historical exploration, there’s a park in Nashville that’s perfect for you. Get started today in Nashville real estate with Onward Real Estate.
A scenic greenway connects Two Rivers Park to the Shelby Bottoms Greenway, offering even more opportunities for biking or running. The park also boasts beautiful views of the river, perfect for a peaceful pause during an active day. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to combine fitness with a sense of outdoor adventure.
In the end, Nashville’s parks offer much more than just places to stretch your legs — they’re a chance to experience the city’s beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re a fan of peaceful nature walks, outdoor recreation, or historical exploration, there’s a park in Nashville that’s perfect for you. Get started today in Nashville real estate with Onward Real Estate.
