Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park Map
About Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park in Nashville
Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park is a 19-acre urban state park located in downtown Nashville, Tennessee. Opened on June 1, 1996 to commemorate Tennessee's 200th anniversary of statehood, the park provides visitors with a taste of Tennessee's history and natural beauty.
The park is situated in the shadow of the State Capitol building, offering dramatic views of the Capitol and downtown Nashville skyline. It was designed to be a smaller-scale version of the National Mall in Washington, D.C., incorporating elements that showcase Tennessee's heritage and geography.
A central feature of the park is the 200-foot-wide granite map of Tennessee, one of the largest geographical maps in the world. This map highlights the state's major cities, counties, rivers, and transportation routes. Nearby, the Rivers of Tennessee Fountains represent the state's major waterways with 31 vertical water jets.
The park includes several monuments and educational exhibits. The Pathway of History features a 1,400-foot wall engraved with key events from Tennessee's past. The World War II Memorial honors Tennesseans who served, with black granite pillars surrounding a large granite globe. At the northern end, the Court of 3 Stars contains a 95-bell carillon representing Tennessee's musical heritage and 95 counties.
Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park serves as both a public gathering space and an outdoor history museum. It hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts at its 2,000-seat amphitheater and educational programs led by park rangers. The park's location adjacent to the Nashville Farmers' Market provides visitors with additional amenities and local flavor.