Centennial Park and the Parthenon: is it worth it?
Our score, honest verdict, what it costs, how to avoid the crowds, and what to do instead if it is not for you.
Our verdict: worth it, especially on a nice day
The Parthenon is a quirky, memorable stop that does not take all day. Pair it with a walk around the park. Hours change by day, and Thursdays are short, so check the official hours before you go.
Adult admission is $15 on the official site; youth and seniors are $10. The surrounding park is a bonus.
Rarely overwhelming, though special events can fill the park.
There is no other full-size Parthenon replica like it in the country, and it sits in the middle of a city park.
Easy to reach from West End. Admission is on-site only. Parking details were not on the official pages we opened.
Who should go, and who should skip it
- You want something different from the music attractions
- You like architecture, history or a park stroll
- You only have time for one big Nashville experience
- You are looking for a free indoor activity (try the Tennessee State Museum)
To compare, read our review of Pedestrian Bridge at sunset, Tennessee State Museum and Cheekwood Estate and Gardens.
Better alternatives and what pairs well
VIEWSPhoto: Kaldari, CC0Pedestrian Bridge at sunset
A free walk over the Cumberland River on the historic John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge, with the downtown skyline behind you.
MUSEUMPhoto: Antony-22, CC BY-SA 4.0Tennessee State Museum
A free museum of Tennessee history, from early peoples to the present, in a modern building near the Farmers' Market.
PARKSPhoto: Sharon Mollerus, CC BY 2.0Cheekwood Estate and Gardens
A 55-acre estate with gardens, a historic mansion and an art collection.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Nashville Parthenon?
2500 West End Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203, in Centennial Park.
How much does it cost?
Adults are $15, youth (4 to 17) and seniors (62 and up) are $10, and children under 4 are free. Tickets are bought on site.
What are the hours?
Monday to Wednesday and Friday and Saturday, 9 AM to 4:30 PM. Thursday 9 AM to noon. Sunday 12:30 to 4:30 PM. It closes on several holidays, so check the official page.
