Fannie Mae Dees Park

The Dragon Park Legacy

Located in Nashville is Fannie Mae Dees Park, which most residents simply call "Dragon Park." Established back in 1978, it honors the legacy of Fannie Mae Dees, a passionate civic leader who stood her ground against urban renewal projects threatening the neighborhood in the 1970s.

What really makes this park special? Without a doubt, it's the 200-foot-long mosaic sea serpent sculpture winding through the grounds. Though everyone calls it a dragon, this colorful creation came to life in the early 1980s through the vision of Chilean artist Pedro Silva, who turned it into a true community project. Local residents rolled up their sleeves and helped craft the intricate mosaics that cover the creature. Take a closer look and you'll discover delightful details - tiny people, fish, writings, and whimsical surprises embedded throughout the dragon's body.

Playground Paradise

The park recently got a major facelift with its playground areas. Gone is the dated equipment, replaced by modern, inclusive structures that welcome children of all abilities. You'll find thoughtfully designed zones including a toddler playground with pint-sized equipment meant for the little ones, while the separate "big kid" area offers more challenging adventures for older children.

Kids won't be bored here with at least seven slides scattered throughout the playground, various swing options (including two baby swings and four standard ones), and extensive climbing structures featuring rope elements. The large rock climbing area with its fun tunnel tends to be a favorite spot. The playground features soft turf surfaces - gentler on knees and elbows when tumbles happen.

Park Features and Amenities

The park spans several acres, with a mix of open spaces and shady spots beneath mature trees. Its location near Vanderbilt University makes it a natural gathering place for both students and families from the surrounding neighborhoods.

Beyond the playground, you'll find tennis courts that double as pickleball courts, open fields meant for impromptu soccer games, and plenty of seating options throughout. Need shelter from the sun or a sudden shower? Several covered pavilions provide protection and come equipped with picnic tables - some even offer power outlets for charging devices or powering small appliances.

The park includes clean restrooms with changing tables, making it much easier to spend a full day here with young children. Water fountains scattered within the grounds help everyone stay hydrated during those hot Tennessee days.

Community Heart

In 2017-2018, the treasured dragon got some much-needed TLC through a major renovation project led by the Hillsboro-West End Neighborhood Association, ensuring this unique piece of public art continues to delight future generations.

The park brings together different parts of Nashville's community. On any given day, you might see birthday celebrations, study groups, picnics, and playground playdates happening simultaneously. Finding street parking can sometimes be a challenge, but the park's central location makes it a popular spot in Nashville.