The 7 Best Places To Go Swimming In Nashville
It may seem weird to talk about swimming in Nashville in October, but our weather forecasts don’t care what month it is. Spoiler alert: It’s still hot outside. Summer may last forever but that doesn’t mean there aren’t activities to beat the heat. In fact, this is your chance to cram in whatever summer activities you might have missed this year. One of the great things about the area is that there are plenty of opportunities for swimming in Nashville. In the mood to take a dip while having a drink with a friend? Want to get in some exercise at a lake? How about kayaking down a river? We look at all the best options to get you outside a few more times before winter realizes what month it is.
1. Anderson Road Recreation Area – Percy Priest Lake
Percy Priest Lake is beautiful. This beach affords a wide view of the islands and forests that make the whole area so picturesque. The swimming area is wide. This allows a large amount of people to swim at the same time without feeling cramped. Whether you want to play games and splash around or simply float and enjoy the sunshine, this is one of the best places around Nashville to go. Camping is also available if you just can’t bring yourself to leave.
2. Old Hickory Beach
Old Hickory Beach is a short drive northeast of Nashville. This little gem is tucked away near the Old Hickory Lock and Dam. It is quite a bit less busy than the beaches of Percy Priest Lake, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less beautiful. Old Hickory Lake is a frequent destination for boaters, fishers, and any other water-based activity. The beach offers grills and a large picnic shelter. This makes it a great destination for large group get-togethers. Wildlife is abundant as the beach is tucked fairly far away from the city. Deer, turkeys, and an abundance of waterbirds make this a great destination.
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3. Nashville Shores
Nothing screams summer more than a water park. Nashville Shores is located on the northern shore of Percy Priest Lake. Hop in the massive wave pool. Or, enjoy one of their eight water slides. In the mood for something a little more relaxing? Kick back and enjoy the lazy river or lay out on the beach. Nashville Shores is a great destination for the whole family. No matter what your mood you’re in, there’s something here that will provide what you’re looking for.
4. Pinewood Social
Looking to take a quick dip while relaxing with friends? Pinewood Social offers two “dipping pools” (meant for sitting or standing as they aren’t large enough to fully swim). The outside patio also hosts a 30-foot Airstream food truck. Food is served all day and night while you enjoy the outdoor patio and soaking in one of the two dipping pools. Pinewood is located downtown so no matter where you live in the city, it won’t be a far trip.
5. Long Hunter State Park
Long Hunter State Park is located east of the Anderson Road Recreation Area in the sprawling Percy Priest Lake. The state park affords many options for hiking and recreation. After working up a sweat on the trails, hop in the lake to cool down. This location proves that no matter where you are on this giant lake, it’s going to be beautiful. Not only that, but also refreshing for a hot afternoon in these endless Tennessee summers.
6. Wave Country Water Park
Located within Two Rivers Park, Wave Country is very accessible. Staying at the Opryland Hotel? Good news: Wave Country Water Park is a five minute drive away. The main attraction is a large wave pool. The park provides floats on a first-come-first-served basis. There are also several water slides and a large assortment of food options. There’s no better way to soak up a summer day than at the water park.
7. Harpeth River
Harpeth River is a winding 115 mile tributary to the Cumberland River. The Harpeth River State Park is a little north of Franklin and spans 40 of those miles. There are many places where you can take a dip. More than that, they offer kayaking, canoeing, fishing and hiking. Enjoy the beautiful views while participating in your favorite outdoor activity. Feel free to bring your own canoes and kayaks. Don’t have one? That’s no problem. Rentals are available.
No matter where you are in the city, there are plenty of nearby options to go swimming in Nashville. So get out there while you still can. You don’t have to stay indoors just because it’s hot. There are plenty of options for you to enjoy.
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