Garden-Lou Journey to Cheekwood Estate and Gardens -

Nashville, TN

The 55 acres surrounding Cheekwood Estate are home to diverse plantings, a vast range of water features, fun family attractions, and quiet spots for contemplation. Saying there is something for everyone is an understatement. Although my visit was timed to take in the stunning holiday floral display inside the historic mansion (A Holiday Journey to Cheekwood Estate –), I was pleasantly surprised by the gardens, given it was December and not exactly peak garden season. Nashville sits in US Growing Zone 7, and although most trees were bare, there was ample fall color, blooming perennials, and camellias to enjoy.

Artwork abounds around every bend in this garden, always a plus to me. (There is even a nicely done art gallery on the top floor inside the mansion-bonus points!) The map and signage were easy to navigate, and the staff had the delightful Southern Hospitality you would expect in Tennessee.

For families, there is plenty to entertain children and adults alike. The Bracken Foundation Children’s Garden was top-notch with creative, interactive activities like water painting as well as plenty of nooks and crannies to explore and climb through. The outdoor living library is unique, and I’m anxious to get back during the growing season to see how it’s enhanced.

The eight-track Cheekwood Train Garden is an over-the-top, immersive experience for all ages, and the best I’ve ever seen. The garden includes a storybook trail and an enchanted train depot.

I had not heard of, nor had the pleasure of meeting, Mrs. Cora Howe, but after visiting the charming Howe Garden that pays tribute to this plantswoman, I feel that I know her.

For Japanese Garden lovers, the Blevins Japanese Garden (Shōmu-en) is small, but mighty with dry gravel beds, a stunning viewing pavilion, and a bamboo walk.

Notable plant collections include dogwood, daylily, iris, ferns, magnolias, and hydrangeas among the 130 species of trees and shrubs.

What I love about this garden;

-Historic Estate, Botanical Garden, AND Arboretum.

-Great art collection, both outdoors and inside the Estate’s Gallery.

-A year-round calendar full of events, music, and special exhibits.

-Multiple independently owned gift shops.

-Great website with info, downloadable brochures, maps, and searchable plant collections.

-Plenty to enjoy for kids, adults, and plant-geeks on every level.

Know before you go;

-Parking is limited. Rideshare is encouraged, and garden discounts are provided. Online parking reservations are available and are the only way to ensure parking in the lot during busy times.

-Open year-round Tuesday-Sunday 9-5, but closed for holidays-always check website for details.

-Admission varies with age. As of posting, adult pricing ranged from $20 to $29 for Estate admission also. Discounts for Seniors, children, and students.

-Café 29 is the on-site restaurant providing sandwiches, soups, baked goods, beverages, and adult drinks. Picnic tables are available, and blankets for picnics are welcome.

-The map has accessible paths marked. Plenty of stairs and uneven surfaces on this hilly terrain.