Whether you choose to walk, cycle, or ride a Segway, there’s plenty to see at the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. Start at the central plaza, where the 95-bell carillon (representing the Volunteer State’s 95 counties) plays part of the Tennessee Waltz each quarter hour, and the views extend all the way to the State Capitol Building.
From there, stroll the tree-lined walkways past the World War II Memorial; follow the Pathway of History, where towering pillars mark key events in Tennessee history; and explore the Walkway of Counties, showcasing native plants and flowers from around the state. At the south end of the park, a 2,000-seat amphitheater hosts open-air concerts during the summer months, next to the Rivers of Tennessee Fountains and a gigantic granite map of the state.
The Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park is located just north of the Tennessee State Capitol Building in downtown Nashville. The park is easy to reach on foot from many of Nashville’s central attractions, or else buses #22 and #64 stop on James Robertson Parkway at the south end of the park. Free parking is available along the park’s eastern border.
The park is at its most picturesque in spring and autumn, highlighted by the flush of spring flowers and fall foliage. The park hosts a variety of special events, guided walks, and festivals on weekends throughout the year.
At the northwest border of the park, the Tennessee State Museum is devoted to Tennessean history, with exhibitions covering the Civil War, ancient civilizations, and the region’s natural landscapes. History buffs can also take a guided tour of the Tennessee State Capitol building and stroll around the Victory Park, home to the tombs of President and Mrs. James K. Polk, as well as statues of Presidents Andrew Jackson and Andrew Johnson. Right next door is another one of Nashville’s most popular museums, the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum, where music fans can see instruments, personal items, and memorabilia from artists such as Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan, and Hank Williams.
