3 Best Outdoor Activities in Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville is a city renowned for its vibrant music scene, but it also boasts a wealth of natural beauty that is worth exploring. The rolling hills, lush green forests, and sparkling bodies of water make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, or just taking a leisurely stroll, Nashville offers a range of activities to suit all levels of experience and interest. From the stunning views atop the nearby Radnor Lake State Park to the tranquility of the Cumberland River, the city’s natural wonders provide an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. So, if you’re looking to get outside, breathe in some fresh air, and soak up the natural beauty of Nashville, there’s no better time to do it than now.

Here are the 3 Best Outdoor Activities in Nashville, Tennessee

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens 
Nashville Zoo
Historic Mansker’s Station

Each of these establishments was chosen based on personal experience, as well as online reviews. Continue reading on to learn more about the 3 best outdoor activities in Nashville, Tennessee. 

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens 

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is a historic mansion and botanical garden located in Nashville, Tennessee. The estate was originally built in 1929 by the Cheek family, who made their fortune in the Maxwell House coffee business. Today, the estate is open to the public and features over 55 acres of immaculately landscaped gardens, including a Japanese garden, a color garden, and a water garden. 

Visitors can also tour the mansion, which is filled with art and antiques collected by the Cheek family. Throughout the year, Cheekwood hosts a variety of seasonal events and exhibits, including the popular Holiday Lights display during the winter months. With its beautiful gardens, fascinating history, and year-round events, Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Nashville.

Location of Cheekwood Estate & Gardens 

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens 
1200 Forrest Park Drive
Nashville, Tennessee 37205
(615) 356- 8000
Historic Estate in Nashville | Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

Review of Cheekwood Estate & Gardens 

“Perfect place for a date or for a family outing! The garden was beautiful! I spent 2 hours just wandering around but could’ve easily spent 3 hours there. There is a walking trail in the woods, Japanese garden, a children’s learning area, more gardens and the mansion! The mansion is an additional fee, but is worth it if you’re a first time goer. Interesting to learn more about the history of the Cheeks and there is also a traveling art exhibit in the mansion.” – Sara C. 

Nashville Zoo

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is a fun and educational destination for families and animal lovers. The zoo spans 188 acres and is home to over 2,700 animals from all over the world, including Bengal tigers, red pandas, and giraffes. The zoo offers a variety of interactive experiences, such as feeding the lorikeets, petting kangaroos, and getting up close with the zoo’s resident camels. 

Visitors can also take a ride on the Wilderness Express Train or the Soaring Eagle Zip Line for a unique perspective of the zoo. In addition to its animal exhibits, the Nashville Zoo also focuses on conservation efforts and offers educational programs and workshops for all ages. With its diverse collection of animals and interactive experiences, the Nashville Zoo is a great place to spend a day with family and friends.

Location of Nashville Zoo

Nashville Zoo
3777 Nolensville Parkway
Nashville, Tennessee 37211
(615) 833- 1534
Nashville Zoo at Grassmere | Nashville, TN

Review of Nashville Zoo

“I loved going to this zoo with a friend. There is a lot of walking and the enclosures were larger than I have seen in a while. The playground was massive, great food options and appreciated that the animal show was very educational. Also being a vet tech, I enjoyed going to the vet building and seeing the babies and a surgery that was taking place. The carousel was amazing as well, fun for all ages.” – Esther R.

Historic Mansker’s Station

Historic Mansker’s Station is a living history museum located in Goodlettsville, Tennessee, just 20 minutes north of Nashville. The museum is centered around a reconstructed frontier fort that was originally built in the late 18th century by German immigrant Kasper Mansker. The fort served as a vital trading post and refuge for early settlers in the area. Today, visitors can tour the fort and experience what life was like for early pioneers in Middle Tennessee. 

The museum also includes a replica log cabin, a blacksmith shop, and a herb garden, as well as a variety of exhibits on frontier life and the history of the area. Throughout the year, Historic Mansker’s Station hosts a range of events and programs, including reenactments, living history demonstrations, and workshops. With its fascinating history and educational opportunities, Historic Mansker’s Station is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the early history of Middle Tennessee.

Location of Historic Mansker’s Station

Historic Mansker’s Station
705 Caldwell Drive 
Goodlettsville, Tennessee 37072
(615) 859- 3678
Historic Mansker’s Station | Goodlettsville, TN – Official Website

Review of Historic Mansker’s Station

“We had a Monday morning free and decided to go do the tour. Our guide was great. We had her all to ourselves and was very patient with all my kids’ questions. I would definitely recommend this for any small group. Wish we could come when they are doing reenactments.” – Gerald H.

Find an Outdoor Activity Near You

I hope this article helped to encourage you to get outdoors this Summer season. Consider visiting one or all of the previously listed locations. For more outdoor activities in Nashville, Tennessee, visit this link.