Centennial Park and the Parthenon in Nashville, Tennessee, are definitely worth a visit. This urban park is a peaceful escape in the city, featuring a full-scale replica of the ancient Greek Parthenon. It’s a great mix of history, art, and nature, making it a top spot for both locals and visitors.

History

The Parthenon was originally built for the 1897 Tennessee Centennial Exposition, which is why Nashville is sometimes called “”The Athens of the South.”” Although it was meant to be temporary, the structure was preserved and turned into an art museum. Inside, you’ll find a 42-foot-tall statue of Athena, crafted by Alan Le Quire in 1990, along with sculptures and paintings by American artists from the 19th and 20th centuries. The park itself has a colorful past, having served as a fairground, racetrack, and event venue over the years.

How to Get There

Centennial Park is conveniently located about ten minutes east of downtown Nashville, between West End Avenue and Charlotte Avenue. Driving there is easy, and there’s a large parking lot next to the Parthenon. However, parking can get crowded, so using the Old Town Trolley service is a smart choice. It offers a fun and informative tour of Nashville’s attractions, including the park.

Things to See

1. The Parthenon: This full-scale replica of the ancient Greek temple houses a massive statue of Athena and features American art.
2. Athena Statue: On the second floor, you’ll find the impressive Athena statue, adorned with gold leaf.
3. Mosaic Art Exhibit: Check out the creative mosaic art, including a pomegranate made from broken glass and a Day of the Dead skull.
4. Sunken Garden: A peaceful spot for meditation, surrounded by lush greenery.
5. Lake Watauga: A man-made pond with fountains, ducks, and other aquatic life.
6. Centennial Dog Park: Separate areas for large and small dogs to play.
7. Volleyball Courts and Children’s Playground: Great for family fun and outdoor activities.
8. Band Shell: Hosts children’s theater, summer concerts, and outdoor movies.

Ticket Information

– Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for children (ages 4-17) and seniors (62+).
– Guided tours include the Architecture Tour, available on the first Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday of each month, lasting 45 minutes. The Centennial Park History tour runs seasonally every Wednesday from May through October, lasting 30 minutes.
– Self-guided tours are also an option, with pamphlets and docents available to help.

Tips for Visiting

1. Parking: The parking lot can fill up quickly, so consider using the Old Town Trolley service for convenience.
2. Hours of Operation: The Parthenon is open Tuesday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sunday from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. It’s closed on Mondays, Thanksgiving Day, the following Friday, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
3. Accessibility: Pets, food, drinks, backpacks, and oversized bags aren’t allowed in the museum, but strollers are welcome.
4. Events: The park hosts various events throughout the year, like festivals, concerts, and Shakespeare in the Park. Check the schedule for what’s coming up.
5. Photography: There are plenty of photo opportunities, so don’t forget to capture the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.

By following these tips and exploring the attractions in Centennial Park and the Parthenon, visitors can enjoy a rich experience of Nashville’s history, art, and natural beauty.