Nashville is best known for being called Music City with more than 180 recording studios and 5,000 working musicians living in the city. Many non-music based attractions exist in the southern city rich with historical history and inspired by art and the outdoors.
Nashville's botanical garden and museum is in one location. The centers sit on 55 acres of rolling hills, and the Georgia mansion art museum has more than 33,000 square feet of gallery and exhibition space. The Cheekwood website suggests visitors plan two hours to see all the sites---a shuttle take visitors throughout Cheekwood. Year-round activities are available for children; Tuesdays and Thursdays are designated as family days with activities for all ages. The art center includes the largest collection of Worcester porcelain in the United States. Art ranges from American and contemporary style paintings and sculptures. A variety of traveling exhibits visit the museum throughout the year. View a Japanese garden, herb garden and a variety of perennial gardens. Find pools, fountains and statues throughout the gardens.
Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art
1200 Forrest Park Dr.
Nashville, Tenn. 37205
615-356-8000
Cheekwood.org
The General Jackson showboat offers midday, evening or special occasion cruises along the Cumberland River. Cruises offer full meals along with a variety of country and theatrical shows. The 300-foot-long river paddle boat has four decks. The boat includes a two-story Victorian theater and dining area that seats 480 guests. Heritage Hall, a small bar and grill area, is located on the boat as well as a gift shop. The Hurricane Deck is the top level of the showboat where a full bar, DJ booth and dance floor is available for late night and evening events. You can view downtown Nashville during the day or evening during the approximately two-hour-long floats.
General Jackson Showboat
2812 Opryland Dr
Nashville, Tenn. 37214
615-458-3900
866-567-JACK
Generaljackson.com
Six miles west of Nashville, the historic 1853 Belle Meade Mansion and Plantation sits on 30 acres of Tennessee land. The site offers daily tours, an active winery as well as dining opportunities. Special events include a monthly book discussion group, educational activities and summer camps. The Belle, the onsite cafe, presents American and European cuisine food with a hint of southern inspiration. The menu includes Ashley Farms pheasant and fried gulf oysters. Brunch, lunch and dinner are available through the week.
Belle Meade Plantation
5025 Harding Pike
Nashville, Tenn. 37205
615-356-0501
Bellemeadeplantation.com
