Centennial Park
A grand urban park featuring a full-scale Parthenon replica, serene gardens, walking trails, and a dog park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Centennial Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand urban park featuring a full-scale Parthenon replica, serene gardens, walking trails, and a dog park.
"Centennial Park is such a gem here in Nashville—spacious, pretty, and always something going on."
🎯 Parthenon Hours Check
Always check the Parthenon's hours online before visiting, as they can change.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking! Wear comfy shoes for exploring the trails and grounds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Parthenon Replica
Center of the park
A full-scale replica of the Athenian Parthenon, housing an art museum. A truly unique Nashville landmark.
Gardens and Lake
Throughout the park
Beautifully landscaped gardens surround a serene man-made lake, perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls.
Walking and Jogging Trails
Circumferential path
Paved trails offer a pleasant route for walking, jogging, or cycling amidst scenic park views.
Dog Park
Designated area
A dedicated space for furry friends to roam and play off-leash, a hit with local dog owners.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Parthenon Entry & Park Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Parthenon Hours Check
Always check the Parthenon's hours online before visiting, as they can change.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking! Wear comfy shoes for exploring the trails and grounds.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Pack a picnic to enjoy the spacious lawns and beautiful scenery. Great for families!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leash your dog and enjoy the park! There's also a dedicated dog park for off-leash play.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Parthenon Hours Check
Always check the Parthenon's hours online before visiting, as they can change.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking! Wear comfy shoes for exploring the trails and grounds.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Pack a picnic to enjoy the spacious lawns and beautiful scenery. Great for families!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leash your dog and enjoy the park! There's also a dedicated dog park for off-leash play.
📸 Capture the Sunset
The park offers beautiful sunset views, especially around the lake.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Centennial Park is widely praised as a beautiful and spacious urban oasis, with the Parthenon replica being a major highlight. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained gardens, walking trails, and family-friendly atmosphere. While the park itself is free, the Parthenon museum has an entry fee. Some visitors note that finding specific features like a dedicated bench can be challenging.
"I haven’t been to the Parthenon in over 20 years! Absolutely beautiful! Greek history! The layout of centennial park has always been grand! 10 dollar entry. Lots of free parking and other great sites outside the Parthenon, even a walking sidewalk trail if you enjoy jogging! Great for picnics, kite flying and a man made pond/lake for fishing. Very peaceful and lovely landscaping. Will definitely recommend!!!"
Sherrie Storey Dramagirlbooks (Writer & Film Producer)
"Nice park with paved trails. Great for walking or jogging. We saw people fishing in the large pond. Nice trees and flowers throughout. Love the kid's story signs along the way. Check online for Parthenon hours of you want to go inside."
Jana Patterson
"Centennial Park is such a gem here in Nashville. My family always enjoys coming out — it’s spacious, pretty, and there’s always something going on. The Parthenon is the big highlight, a full-size replica of the one in Athens that was built for the 1897 Centennial Exposition. It’s such a cool (and kind of unexpected) landmark to have right in the middle of the city.
We’ve made a lot of great memories here, and most recently we went for the Walk to End Lupus. It honestly couldn’t have been a better spot for it — the space, the atmosphere, everything just fit perfectly. Definitely one of our favorite places in town."
Liz Haugen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Centennial Park is easily accessible by car, with ample free parking available. Public transportation options are also available, though routes and schedules may vary. Many visitors find it convenient to use ride-sharing services.
Yes, Centennial Park offers a significant amount of free parking, which is a major convenience for visitors.
While it's a bit of a walk, it's possible to reach Centennial Park from downtown Nashville. Alternatively, you can take a short drive or public transport. Some neighborhoods like Long Blvd and Acklen Park Drive are within walking distance.
The park is best explored on foot. Paved walking and jogging trails make it easy to navigate. Biking is also popular on designated paths.
For those looking to live near Centennial Park, neighborhoods like Long Blvd and Acklen Park Drive are recommended for their proximity and pleasant atmosphere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Centennial Park itself is free to enter and explore. However, there is an admission fee to enter the Parthenon museum.
The entry fee for the Parthenon museum is typically around $10, but it's always best to check their official website for the most current pricing.
Centennial Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. The Parthenon museum has specific operating hours, which you should verify online before your visit.
While not always required, booking Parthenon tickets in advance can save you time, especially during peak seasons or weekends. Check the Parthenon's official website for booking options.
Centennial Park frequently hosts events, from community walks to festivals. It's advisable to check the park's official calendar or local event listings for what's happening during your visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Centennial Park offers a variety of activities including visiting the Parthenon replica, exploring gardens, walking/jogging on trails, picnicking, fishing in the lake, and enjoying the dog park.
Absolutely! Centennial Park is very family-friendly, with spacious areas for play, kid-friendly story signs along trails, and the Parthenon as an educational attraction.
Yes, Centennial Park is dog-friendly. Dogs must be kept on a leash in most areas, but there is a dedicated dog park for off-leash fun.
You can often spot various bird species, and the lake may have fish. Keep an eye out for local wildlife during your strolls.
Yes, there are playgrounds within Centennial Park, making it a great spot for children to play and burn energy.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no full-service restaurants directly within Centennial Park, there are often food trucks during events. The park is ideal for picnics, and there are cafes nearby, such as Centennial Homestead in Sydney.
Yes, Centennial Park is a fantastic spot for picnics. There are plenty of open green spaces perfect for spreading out a blanket and enjoying a meal.
The area surrounding Centennial Park offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants. For a specific park-adjacent cafe experience, consider Centennial Homestead.
There are typically water fountains available for refilling bottles. For purchased beverages, you may need to visit nearby establishments or bring your own.
Park regulations regarding alcohol can vary. It's best to check the specific rules for Centennial Park regarding alcohol consumption to avoid any issues.
📸 📸 Photography
The Parthenon replica is a must-capture. The gardens, lake, and scenic trails also offer beautiful backdrops. Sunsets can be particularly photogenic.
With its diverse scenery, including the Parthenon, gardens, and lake, Centennial Park is a popular and picturesque location for engagement and wedding photos.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for photography. Sunsets can be particularly stunning.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial shoots or large events, permits might be required. It's always wise to check with park management if you have specific professional photography plans.
The unique blend of urban green space with the striking Parthenon replica provides a distinctive photographic opportunity not found in many city parks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds. The park is generally dog-friendly, so your furry family members can join in on the fun (on leash, except in the dog park). The overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming for all ages.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to always keep your dog on a leash outside the designated dog park area and clean up after them. The paved trails are perfect for a leisurely walk with your canine companion, offering plenty of sights and smells.
🚶♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
Many visitors use the park for light exercise, and the relatively flat terrain makes it accessible for various fitness levels. The beautiful surroundings add an extra layer of enjoyment to your workout routine.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Parthenon: A Nashville Icon
Visiting the Parthenon requires an admission fee, and its hours can vary, so it's recommended to check the official schedule before your visit. The exterior alone is impressive, offering a unique photo opportunity and a glimpse into classical architecture. Many visitors find it a surprisingly grand and unexpected feature of the park.
Historical Significance
The 1897 Centennial Exposition celebrated Tennessee's 100th year of statehood. The Parthenon was the exposition's centerpiece and a symbol of Nashville's aspiration to be the 'Athens of the South.' Its enduring presence highlights the city's cultural ambitions and historical ties.
Exploring Centennial Park's Green Spaces
The park is also a haven for dog lovers, boasting a dedicated dog park where canine companions can play off-leash. Families will appreciate the playgrounds and the charming 'kid's story signs' found along some of the walking paths, adding an educational and fun element for younger visitors.
Seasonal Beauty
During spring, the park can be particularly beautiful with blooming flowers and trees. While not as famous as some other locations, there have been mentions of cherry blossoms in similar Centennial Parks, suggesting the potential for seasonal floral beauty.
Community and Events at Centennial Park
For instance, the park has been a venue for events like the Walk to End Lupus, highlighting its capacity to support meaningful community initiatives. The atmosphere is often described as welcoming and conducive to shared experiences, making it a cherished spot for locals and visitors alike.
Volunteerism and Giving Back
There are also instances of community members engaging in volunteerism within the park, such as clean-up efforts or beautification projects. This reflects a strong sense of stewardship and pride in maintaining Centennial Park as a valuable community asset.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit