When you think of Nashville, you probably think of the Grand Ole Opry, The Country Music Hall of Fame, or even the Ryman Auditorium. But what about those off-the-beaten-path places in and around Music City? Here are a few of our favorites.
The Hermitage Hotel
Opened in 1910, the Hermitage Hotel has played host to many illustrious guests, from Hollywood stars (Gene Autry once walked his horse through the grand lobby!) to presidents, to Prohibition-era gangsters like Al Capone. Known for its deluxe accommodations and excellent service, the Hermitage has many not-to-be-missed features, such as the grand staircase and the painted glass ceiling. If you get a chance, also take a peek at the men’s restroom, which has been voted Best Bathroom in America. There you’ll find decadence unheard of in present day, complete with a shoeshine station and art-deco emerald and black fixtures.
Lane Motor Museum
Is there a car enthusiast in your group? If so, he or she could get lost in automobile nostalgia at the Lane Motor Museum. There you’ll find over 150 cars and motorcycles. They have everything from microcars to military vehicles and everything in between. There are many prototypes and one-of-a-kind vehicles here from all over the world. The best part is that the staff strives to keep all of the automobiles in working order. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Monday; it’s closed Tuesday and Wednesday. There is a small entry fee.
Cheekwood Estate and Botanical Gardens
Originally home to Leslie and Mabel Cheek, this estate was built in 1929. It was converted into a museum and botanical garden in 1960 and is over 55 acres in size. The grounds feature 11 different botanical gardens, each with a unique theme. There is also a sculpture trail. It’s a 1-mile walking loop featuring contemporary sculptures in a wooded setting. The museum offers seasonal festivals and family activities and programs for all ages. Its hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday; it’s closed Monday. There is a small entry fee for nonmembers.
The Parthenon
Built in 1897 as part of Nashville’s Centennial Exposition, the Parthenon is an exact replica of the same in Athens, Greece, right down to the giant statue of Athena in the center of the grand hall. After the Exposition, rather than take on the costs to demolish the building, city leaders decided to make it a permanent structure. Now it serves as a museum, housing paintings by American artists of the 19th and 20th centuries. Its hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday; closed Monday. There is a small entry fee.
Next time you’re in the Nashville area, spend some time at one of these lesser-known places. We know you won’t be disappointed. And while you’re out and about, stop by Wyatt Johnson Ford. We can put you in a vehicle to take you on all your off-the-beaten-path adventures!
Image by MichaelGaida, used under CCO 1.0
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