Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is a stunning 55-acre estate located in Nashville, Tennessee, offering a perfect blend of art, history, and nature. Once the private home of the Cheek family, the estate is now a public botanical garden and museum, showcasing beautiful landscapes, an impressive art collection, and a rich history. Visitors can enjoy the lush gardens, explore the mansion, and experience rotating art exhibits, making it a perfect destination for those seeking culture, beauty, and tranquility in the heart of Nashville.

Why Visit Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

• Impressive Gardens: The estate boasts a variety of beautifully landscaped gardens, including a Japanese Garden, Rose Garden, and Woodland Sculpture Trail, offering year-round beauty and inspiration for garden lovers.
• Historic Mansion: The Cheekwood Mansion, built in 1929, is a classic example of Georgian Revival architecture and offers a glimpse into the luxurious life of the Cheek family with its well-preserved rooms and period furnishings.
• Art Exhibitions: The estate hosts a range of rotating art exhibits, featuring both traditional and contemporary artists. The Cheekwood Museum of Art is housed within the mansion, showcasing significant collections of American art, including works from the 19th and 20th centuries.
• Family-Friendly Activities: With its interactive exhibits, beautiful open spaces, and seasonal events, Cheekwood is perfect for families looking to enjoy a day outdoors or introduce children to art and nature.
• Seasonal Events: Throughout the year, Cheekwood hosts special events, such as the Cheekwood in Bloom spring festival, holiday light displays, and art-focused programming, ensuring there is always something exciting to experience.
• Sculpture Trail: The estate features an outdoor sculpture trail, where visitors can walk through beautifully manicured gardens while enjoying contemporary sculptures displayed throughout the landscape.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). Spring offers vibrant blooms in the gardens, particularly during the Cheekwood in Bloom festival, when the gardens are full of colorful flowers. Fall is equally stunning, with the foliage turning brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. However, Cheekwood is a beautiful destination year-round, offering seasonal displays and events, so any time of the year can provide a unique experience.

How to Get There

• By Car: Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is located at 1200 Forrest Park Dr, Nashville, Tennessee, easily accessible by car. It is about 10 minutes from downtown Nashville via Highway 70S and is well-signposted for visitors.
• By Public Transport: Public transportation options to Cheekwood are limited, but you can take Nashville's bus system (Route 1) to a nearby stop and walk to the estate. For a more convenient experience, consider taking a taxi or rideshare service.
• By Air: Nashville International Airport (BNA) is about a 25-minute drive from Cheekwood Estate. From there, visitors can rent a car or take a taxi or rideshare service to the estate.

Tips for Visitors

• Check for Special Events: Cheekwood offers seasonal events and temporary exhibits, so check the website before your visit to ensure you don't miss any exciting activities or programs.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The gardens and grounds of Cheekwood are extensive, so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the property.
• Allow Time to Explore: There’s a lot to see and do at Cheekwood, so plan to spend several hours or even a full day to enjoy the gardens, mansion, and art collections.
• Bring a Camera: With its beautiful gardens, architecture, and outdoor sculptures, Cheekwood is a photographer’s paradise. Don’t forget your camera to capture the beauty of the estate.
• Visit the Gift Shop: Cheekwood has a wonderful gift shop that features local crafts, books, and art-related items, perfect for finding unique souvenirs from your visit.

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is a remarkable blend of art, history, and nature, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring world-class art collections, enjoying a peaceful walk through stunning gardens, or attending one of its many seasonal events, Cheekwood provides an enriching experience that combines cultural heritage and natural beauty. It’s a must-visit for anyone exploring Nashville or seeking a serene escape into nature.