Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is one of Nashville’s most enchanting destinations, combining history, art, and natural beauty into one spectacular location. This 55-acre estate was once the private home of the Cheek family, known for their wealth from the Maxwell House coffee fortune. Today, it serves as a public botanical garden, art museum, and historic landmark. Visitors can explore the stunning mansion, view rotating art exhibitions, stroll through beautifully manicured gardens, and attend seasonal events, all while soaking in the tranquil surroundings.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, nature lover, or history buff, Cheekwood offers a rich, multifaceted experience. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful day of exploration, with activities that cater to visitors of all ages.
History and Culture
The history of Cheekwood dates back to the early 20th century when the Cheek family, who made their fortune from the successful Maxwell House Coffee brand, commissioned the estate. In 1929, Leslie Cheek and his wife Mabel Wood Cheek began building their grand Georgian-style mansion and surrounding gardens. The estate was designed by architect Bryant Fleming, who integrated the home and landscape into a seamless design.
Completed in 1932, Cheekwood became a symbol of luxury and refinement. The family lived in the mansion until the 1950s when they donated the estate to be used as a museum and botanical garden. In 1960, Cheekwood opened to the public, showcasing not only the historic home but also its expansive gardens and a growing art collection.
Today, Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is one of Nashville’s premier cultural institutions. The mansion houses an impressive collection of American and contemporary art, while the gardens are renowned for their diverse plantings, seasonal displays, and beautiful design. The estate also hosts numerous events, exhibitions, and educational programs throughout the year.
Top Attractions
A visit to Cheekwood Estate & Gardens offers a variety of attractions, from historic architecture and art to breathtaking gardens and seasonal displays.
- The Mansion
The Cheekwood Mansion is a beautifully preserved Georgian-style home that showcases the elegance and luxury of early 20th-century living. Visitors can explore the mansion’s grand rooms, which feature original furnishings and decor, and learn about the history of the Cheek family. The mansion also serves as an art museum, displaying an impressive collection of American art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. - The Botanical Gardens
Cheekwood’s expansive Botanical Gardens cover 55 acres and feature a wide variety of themed gardens, each with its own unique design and plantings. Visitors can explore the Japanese Garden, Herb Garden, Rose Garden, Seasonal Gardens, and more. The gardens are meticulously maintained and change with the seasons, offering something new to see throughout the year. Spring is particularly stunning, with thousands of tulips in bloom. - The Sculpture Trail
Winding through the gardens is the Sculpture Trail, a 1.5-mile walking path that features contemporary sculptures integrated into the natural landscape. The trail provides a peaceful and reflective experience, allowing visitors to enjoy both nature and art simultaneously. The trail is well-marked and accessible to all visitors, making it a favorite for art lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. - Cheekwood’s Art Exhibitions
The mansion houses rotating exhibitions of contemporary and historical art, ensuring that there’s always something new to see. Past exhibitions have included works by artists such as Andy Warhol, Dale Chihuly, and Monet. In addition to the permanent collection of American art, Cheekwood regularly hosts traveling exhibitions, lectures, and art-related events. - The Ann & Monroe Carell Jr. Family Sculpture Trail
The Family Sculpture Trail offers a unique outdoor experience with interactive and thought-provoking sculptures set amidst the natural beauty of the estate. This trail is designed to engage visitors of all ages, with sculptures that invite exploration and interaction. - Cheekwood’s Seasonal Events
Throughout the year, Cheekwood hosts a variety of seasonal events that draw visitors from across the region. In the spring, the Cheekwood in Bloom festival celebrates the arrival of spring with over 150,000 blooming bulbs. During the summer, visitors can enjoy Twilight Tuesdays, with live music and extended hours in the gardens. In the fall, Cheekwood Harvest showcases autumn foliage, scarecrow displays, and pumpkin houses. Winter brings Holiday Lights at Cheekwood, a spectacular light display that transforms the gardens into a magical winter wonderland.
Practical Information:
- Hours of Operation: Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; closed on Mondays.
- Entry Fees: Adults: $25; Seniors (65+): $22; Youth (3-17): $18; Children under 3: Free. Tickets include access to both the mansion and the gardens.
- Tip: If visiting during a seasonal event, consider purchasing tickets in advance, as popular events like the Holiday Lights often sell out.
Dining
Cheekwood offers a lovely on-site dining option, as well as nearby restaurants that are perfect for a meal before or after your visit.
- Café 29
Located on the Cheekwood grounds, Café 29 offers a selection of light fare, including salads, sandwiches, and soups, as well as coffee and pastries. The café has both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing visitors to enjoy their meal while taking in the beautiful views of the gardens. It’s a great spot for a casual lunch or snack during your visit. - The Loveless Café
Just a short drive from Cheekwood, the Loveless Café is a Nashville institution known for its Southern comfort food, including biscuits, fried chicken, and country ham. The café offers a hearty meal in a charming, down-home setting, making it a great place to enjoy a taste of Tennessee after a day of exploring Cheekwood. - Pinewood Kitchen & Mercantile
For a farm-to-table experience, Pinewood Kitchen & Mercantile offers seasonal dishes made from local ingredients. The menu includes a variety of Southern favorites with a modern twist, and the restaurant’s cozy atmosphere makes it a perfect stop for a relaxing meal near Cheekwood.
Shopping
While visiting Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, you can stop by the Gift Shop, which offers a selection of unique souvenirs and locally made products.
- Cheekwood Gift Shop
The gift shop at Cheekwood offers a variety of items related to the estate, including gardening tools, home décor, books, and art-inspired gifts. You’ll also find locally made jewelry, pottery, and seasonal gifts, making it a perfect stop for those looking to take home a piece of Cheekwood’s charm. - Green Hills Mall
Located just a short drive from Cheekwood, Green Hills Mall is one of Nashville’s premier shopping destinations, featuring high-end retailers like Nordstrom, Louis Vuitton, and Apple, as well as local boutiques and specialty stores. It’s a great option for visitors looking to indulge in some shopping after their visit to the estate.
Accommodations
For those planning to stay overnight in the Nashville area, there are several excellent accommodation options near Cheekwood Estate & Gardens.
- Belle Air Mansion and Inn
This historic inn offers a charming, luxurious stay just a short drive from Cheekwood. The Belle Air Mansion is set in a beautifully restored antebellum home, offering elegant rooms and a peaceful setting for a relaxing getaway. - Hampton Inn & Suites Nashville-Green Hills
Located near Green Hills Mall and about 10 minutes from Cheekwood, this Hampton Inn offers comfortable accommodations with modern amenities. The hotel provides a free breakfast and easy access to both Cheekwood and Nashville’s top attractions. - Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center
For a more resort-style experience, the Gaylord Opryland Resort is a family-friendly destination with extensive amenities, including indoor gardens, restaurants, pools, and entertainment options. It’s located about 25 minutes from Cheekwood but offers a luxurious stay for those looking to explore more of Nashville. - Airbnb
Visitors may also want to explore Airbnb options in the Belle Meade and Green Hills neighborhoods, where they can find charming cottages, guest houses, or modern apartments that provide a more personal experience close to Cheekwood.
Activities and Tours
Cheekwood offers a variety of activities and tours that enhance the visitor experience, from guided tours of the mansion and gardens to special events that celebrate the estate’s history and beauty.
- Guided Mansion and Garden Tours
Visitors can take a guided tour of the Cheekwood Mansion, where docents provide in-depth information about the architecture, history, and art collections on display. Guided tours of the gardens are also available, offering insight into the estate’s landscape design, plantings, and seasonal displays. - Cheekwood Art & Gardens Camps
For younger visitors, Cheekwood offers seasonal art and garden camps where children can learn about gardening, art, and nature through hands-on activities and exploration. These camps are popular among locals and offer a fun and educational experience for children during school breaks. - Seasonal Events and Workshops
In addition to its major seasonal events like Cheekwood in Bloom and Holiday Lights, Cheekwood hosts workshops and classes throughout the year, including gardening demonstrations, art classes, and floral arrangement workshops. These programs offer visitors a chance to engage with the estate’s offerings on a deeper level. - Photography and Picnicking
Cheekwood’s stunning landscapes make it a favorite spot for photography, whether you’re capturing the blooming tulips in spring or the autumn foliage during Cheekwood Harvest. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic and enjoy lunch on the estate’s rolling lawns or in designated picnic areas.
Events
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is known for its dynamic schedule of events, which draw visitors year-round to experience the beauty and culture of the estate in new ways.
- Cheekwood in Bloom
Every spring, Cheekwood celebrates the arrival of the season with its Cheekwood in Bloom festival. This event features over 150,000 blooming tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, and other spring flowers. Special events during the festival include guided garden tours, live music, and children’s activities. - Cheekwood Harvest
In the fall, Cheekwood Harvest transforms the estate into a celebration of autumn with seasonal displays of pumpkins, chrysanthemums, and scarecrows. Visitors can explore the Pumpkin Village, take hayrides, and enjoy fall-themed events like craft fairs and harvest markets. - Holiday Lights at Cheekwood
One of Nashville’s most beloved holiday traditions, Holiday Lights at Cheekwood features over a million twinkling lights that illuminate the estate’s gardens and pathways. The event also includes festive activities like s’mores roasting, caroling, and visits with Santa Claus, making it a must-see for families during the holiday season. - Art on the Grounds
Throughout the year, Cheekwood hosts Art on the Grounds, an event that showcases local and regional artists who display and sell their work on the estate. This event is perfect for art lovers looking to discover new talent and purchase unique pieces in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Practical Information
Getting There:
- By Car: Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is located at 1200 Forrest Park Dr, Nashville, TN 37205, about 8 miles southwest of downtown Nashville. Free parking is available on-site.
- Public Transportation: While Cheekwood is best accessed by car, WeGo Public Transit offers limited bus service to the area. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available.
Best Time to Visit:
- Cheekwood is beautiful year-round, but spring and fall are particularly popular times to visit due to the blooming flowers in spring and the vibrant foliage in autumn. Winter visitors will enjoy the Holiday Lights, while summer brings lush gardens and outdoor events.
Accessibility:
- Cheekwood is fully accessible to visitors with mobility impairments, with paved paths throughout the gardens and elevators available in the mansion. Wheelchairs are available upon request, and accessible restrooms are located throughout the estate.
Booking Information
- Official Website: www.cheekwood.org
- Phone: (615) 356-8000
- Address: 1200 Forrest Park Dr, Nashville, TN 37205
Ticketing and Tours:
- Tickets can be purchased online or at the Cheekwood visitor center. Specialty tours, such as the Garden Tour or Holiday Lights, may require advance reservations.
Final Thoughts
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is a true gem in Nashville, offering a rich combination of history, art, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the grand mansion, strolling through the meticulously maintained gardens, or attending one of the estate’s seasonal events, a visit to Cheekwood promises an immersive and unforgettable experience. Its blend of culture and tranquility makes it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike, providing a peaceful retreat just minutes from the hustle and bustle of downtown Nashville.
