10 free outdoor activities in and around Nashville

By Jade Spilka on 13th May 2020

Man in a garden

Nashville’s cool, urban scene is not the only thing Tennessee’s capital city has to offer. The growing city still has several (free!) outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy. As Tennessee slowly opens up, Jade Spilka looks at the options.

Parthenon in Centennial Park
The Parthenon replica located in Centennial Park is a grand reminder that Nashville is indeed the Athens of the South. The full-scale replica was built in 1897 and intended to only be a temporary structure. The building’s popularity paired with the high cost of demolition caused the Parthenon to still be standing to this day. The gorgeous replica was given a makeover in 2002 and continues to be enjoyed by several locals and tourists alike.

Arrington Vineyards
Arrington Vineyards, located thirty minutes outside of Nashville, is a beautiful, rural retreat. Enjoy a free wine tasting, have a picnic, and do a little shopping all while relaxing in a peaceful environment. Though Arrington is a bit of a trip, the scenic views during the ride will be a great experience for you and your loved ones to share.

Cumberland River Pedestrian Bridge
If you love having the city skyscrapers as your backdrop, the Cumberland River Pedestrian Bridge is a great location for pictures. Take a walk with friends, snap pictures, and enjoy the Nashville weather.

Nashville Farmer’s Market
The farm-to-table movement has hit Nashville big time and there’s no better (or fresher) selection than the wide variety of fruits and vegetables at the Nashville Farmer’s Market.

Music City Walk of Fame
The Music City Walk of Fame is located on Nashville’s Music Mile and is a tribute to legends in the music industry. Stroll down the walkway and take pictures with your favorite celebrities’ stars.

Opryland Hotel Gardens
Okay, this isn’t really outdoors, but as you take a stroll through these grand gardens, you’ll forget you are indoors. The lush greenery and natural sunlight peeping through the glass ceilings make for a magical experience. The hotel is a popular location for celebrations. You are likely to run into a wedding or convention while merely exploring the hotel.

Radnor Lake State Park
Radnor Lake is a 1,322-acre park and is the perfect place to observe various types of birds, amphibians, mammals, and reptiles. Hundreds of species of plants are also present on the park’s spacious grounds.

Percy Warner Park
Percy Warner is composed of 9 color-coded trails that range from 150 yards to 4.5 miles. The variety of trails means there is a path for anyone. Enjoy the outdoors while staying close to the city.

Montgomery Bell State Park
Forty minutes outside of Nashville is Montgomery Bell State Park. The park has an option to stay overnight. The trail is a 10.35 mile circle around the entire park. Set up camp and stay overnight with friends after a long hike.

Natchez Trace Parkway
The Natchez Trace Parkway runs from Nashville to Natchez, Mississippi. Drive through rural towns and secluded roads down the famous southern parkway.

Related articles: Nashville’s best hikes

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