Nashville’s Best Outdoor Adventures This Spring 2023
Spring has (almost) sprung, and we’re more than ready to get out and embrace the sunshine and good vibes. While many people know Nashville for sights like the Grand Ole Opry and Country Music Hall of Fame, there’s much more to discover. In fact, there’s just as much to do indoors in Nashville as there is outside.
That’s why we’re rounding up the best outdoor activities to do in Nashville in spring 2023. Grab your shades, and don’t forget the sunscreen, because you’ll be spending plenty of time under the sun after you finish this list.
Visit Centennial Park
This sprawling urban park is just two miles from downtown Nashville. Spanning 132-acres, Centennial Park dates back to the Civil War area. Once private farmland, it’s now a nature refuge for Nashville’s most city-centered residents.
Take a scenic walk, enjoy a picnic on the grounds, or visit Tennessee’s historic Parthenon. The full-scale replica of the same landmark in Athens, Greece, is a sight to behold, and absolutely worth visiting when you’re in town.
Bike the Greenway
The heart of Nashville is encircled by 23 relaxing miles of greenway. Rent a bike and experience beautiful parks, rivers, and creeks on your way downtown or to East Nashville. There are options for both casual cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts who crave an adventure akin to The Amazing Race. Whatever your fancy, the trails of the Greenway await, and they promise incredible views and plenty of fresh air.
Take Your Family to the Nashville Zoo
Red panda, lemurs, tigers, and two-toed sloths are just a few of the 3,000 animals on display at the Nashville Zoo. With over 325 species in beautiful habitats across 200 acres, the zoo promises an incredible day of adventure and excitement for all ages.
The zoo frequently hosts special events and attractions. From March 10th to July 30th, you can traverse DinoTrek, a prehistoric encounter that brings dinosaurs to life using life-sized animatronics. There are also year-round backstage passes you can purchase to get up close and personal with some of the zoo’s most beloved residents. Zookeepers will guide you and your family behind the scenes as you get to meet and greet animals like the clouded leopard or rhino.
Explore a Local Waterfall
Bet you didn’t expect to find waterfalls in the heart of Nashville, did you? There’s no need to head all the way out to the Smoky Mountains to appreciate one of Mother Nature’s masterpieces.
Fall Creek Falls
The name may seem redundant, but if it ain’t broke, why change it? Situated in one of Tennessee’s most famous state parks, Fall Creek Falls is a 256-feet marvel. Throughout your journey to the prestigious sight, you’ll take in seemingly endless views of trees, streams, and gorges.
Machine Falls
More experienced hikers will enjoy the 1.6-mile trek to Machine Falls in Short Springs Natural Area. The steep descent into the gorge that receives the waterfall makes this a bit too challenging for newcomers. However, it’s well worth working up to. On top of the photogenic view, you’ll also get to take a trip to Tullahoma, a city one hour from Nashville.
Cummins Falls
This scenic spot and watering hole has been loved by local residents for more than 100 years and is Tennessee’s eight largest waterfall! Not only is the trip to Blackburn Fork River worth it by itself, but you can also splash around in the gorge fed by the 75-foot waterfall.
Grab a Drink at Arrington Vine’s Music in the Vines
Imagine it: You’re sitting in a breathtaking vineyard, sipping on some local wine while a talented jazz band plays their best set against the backdrop of a Tennessee sunset. Sounds like paradise, doesn’t it? Arrington Vineyards’ “Music in the Vines” meals are served as picnics, complete with a tablecloth, dinnerware, wine glasses, and a basket with your selected meal.
See the Best of Nashville with Tommy’s Tours
Come see the best of East Nashville like it’s ever been done before! Tommy’s Tours are an independently owned and operated excursion to some of the city’s biggest hotspots and celebrity homes. See where the likes of Dolly Parton, Brooks and Dunn, and Taylor Swift make themselves at home in Nashville; then, head downtown to see sights like The State Capitol and The Ryman Auditorium. One thing’s for certain: If you’re going to see Nashville right, it’s on Tommy’s bus.
