Cheekwood Estate and Gardens: 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: do it smarter
Cheekwood is lovely, but the ticket price and parking fee add up and the price changes by day. Check the date you plan to go, decide whether you want the mansion included, and note the sculpture trail is closed for construction.
Prices vary by day and program: adults $20 to $26 for gardens only and $26 to $29 with the mansion, plus a parking fee for non-members.
Busy on peak garden days and during Holiday LIGHTS.
Large botanical gardens with a mansion and art, unlike most Nashville attractions.
Outside downtown; you pay for parking.
Who should go, and who should skip it
- You love gardens and want a long, relaxed outing
- You want a holiday lights evening
- You want a quick, low-cost stop
To compare, read our review of Centennial Park and the Parthenon and Belle Meade Historic Site.
Better alternatives and what pairs well
PARKSPhoto: Warren LeMay, CC BY-SA 2.0Centennial Park and the Parthenon
A full-size replica of the Greek Parthenon in Centennial Park, with a museum and a large gold statue of Athena inside.
MUSEUMPhoto: NatureBoyMD, public domainBelle Meade Historic Site
A historic estate and 1853 Greek Revival mansion with guided tours and wine and bourbon experiences.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Cheekwood?
1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville, TN 37205.
What is open year-round?
Regular hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM, with shorter holiday hours from Nov 3, 2026 to Jan 29, 2027 and Holiday LIGHTS evenings from Nov 20, 2026 to Jan 3, 2027.
Is the sculpture trail open?
The official page says the sculpture trail is closed until further notice because of construction.
