Nashville is a major metropolitan city, but we’re so much more than honky tonks and highrises. Get outside with a visit to one of the city’s incredible parks.

Centennial Park

Located in the heart of Nashville, Centennial Park is a sprawling urban park featuring a full-scale replica of the Parthenon, complete with an art museum inside. The park also offers scenic walking trails, a beautiful lake, and vibrant gardens, making it a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities. (Taylor Swift fans: be sure to check out the bench the city dedicated to the singer in honor of her lyric “green was the color of the grass where I used to read at Centennial Park” from her song “Invisible String.”)

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

This 19-acre park offers a unique history lesson with its large-scale map of Tennessee, a World War II Memorial and a Pathway of History detailing significant events. Bicentennial Park also provides stunning views of the State Capitol and a peaceful place to stroll through lush green spaces and gardens.

Shelby Bottoms Nature Center & Greenway

Located along the Cumberland River in East Nashville, Shelby Bottoms offers over 950 acres of diverse habitats and a variety of recreational activities, including hiking and biking trails. The nature center provides educational programs and exhibits about the local wildlife and environment.

Percy Warner Park

Part of the Warner Parks system, Percy Warner Park is known for its extensive trail system, ranging from challenging hiking paths to easy walking trails. The park’s rolling hills and scenic overlooks make it a favorite for nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts alike. Tackle the park’s famous (or infamous) stairs for an extra boost to your workout routine.

Radnor Lake State Park

This serene natural area is renowned for its abundant wildlife and tranquil lake, ideal for bird watching and photography. Radnor Lake State Park offers several miles of hiking trails through lush forests, providing a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle—and ample animal sightings.

Edwin Warner Park

Adjacent to Percy Warner Park, Edwin Warner Park offers additional trails, picnic areas, and educational programs at its nature center. The park’s natural beauty and well-maintained facilities make it a popular destination for family outings and outdoor enthusiasts.

Sevier Park

Located in the 12 South neighborhood, Sevier Park features playgrounds, walking paths, and historic buildings like the Sevier Mansion. The park also hosts community events and a bustling farmers’ market, making it a true neighborhood park.

Fannie Mae Dees Park

Affectionately known as “Dragon Park” due to its whimsical mosaic dragon sculpture, Fannie Mae Dees is a family favorite. It offers playgrounds, picnic areas and open spaces for children to play and explore.

Cumberland Park

Situated along the riverfront, Cumberland Park is a modern urban park designed with interactive water features, a climbing wall, and an outdoor amphitheater. Part of the Riverfront Revitalization Project, the park provides scenic views of the downtown skyline and the river.

Two Rivers Park

This 374-acre park is known for its disc golf course, skate park, and easy access to the Stones River Greenway. Two Rivers also features picnic areas, playgrounds, and a full-on water park, Wave Country, making it one of the most eclectic parks in Nashville.