Shelby Park

A Glimpse into the Past

Shelby Park has a pretty fascinating origin story. What started as a private amusement park back in the 1890s officially became public property on July 4, 1912. Over the decades, it's transformed into a beloved green space for East Nashville locals and anyone looking for a breath of fresh air.

You can still spot bits of history around the park, like the cast-concrete water fountain shelter near the Lillian Avenue entrance. It was designed by Major Eugene Lewis, who headed Nashville's Parks department when the park was established. While many of the original architectural "follies" haven't survived the test of time, you can still discover remnants like the Cave Spring area if you know where to look.

For many Nashvillians, this park holds cherished memories. Some locals reminisce about playing little league football and baseball here on Saturday mornings back in the 1970s. The land originally belonged to the Shelby family, and a few structures from that era continue to stand today.

What You'll Find Here

Covering nearly 361 acres, Shelby Park offers an impressive variety of landscapes - from bluffs and rolling hills to floodplains. It sits about three miles east of downtown Nashville along the Cumberland River, making it accessible yet feeling worlds away from city life.

At the heart of the park lies Lake Sevier, surrounded by winding drives and footpaths that largely follow the original 1919 design. It's common to see people watching the ducks and geese that call the lake home. Near the water, you'll notice a distinctive bird sculpture (affectionately nicknamed the "drippy bird") that's become something of a park icon over the years.

The park balances natural areas with recreational facilities, and you'll discover plenty of parking spots scattered throughout the grounds.

Get Moving

For the active visitor, Shelby Park offers several options. The grounds feature tennis courts, basketball courts, baseball fields, and soccer fields for team sports enthusiasts. Golf lovers can enjoy the 9-hole course, while the popular disc golf course draws players year-round regardless of the weather.

There's a playground with swings, slides, and climbing structures. Parents will appreciate the safety-focused padded ground material and the convenient picnic areas nearby.

Water enthusiasts can take advantage of the boat ramp for Cumberland River access, fantastic for fishing or taking your boat out for a spin. The lake area also attracts fishing fans looking for a peaceful spot to cast a line.

Gather and Feast

Throughout the park, you'll discover numerous picnic areas with tables, many featuring grilling facilities for impromptu cookouts. Several pavilions and gazebos provide shelter, making this an ideal spot for family reunions or casual get-togethers. Look for the larger gazebo with grills at the bottom of a hill, with additional picnic tables situated near the playground and tennis courts.

Hit the Trails

One of Shelby Park's highlights is its network of walking and biking trails. Both paved and natural paths wind through the property, with the paved ones circling Lake Sevier and connecting different park sections. Worth noting: some pedestrians mention that not all paths connect seamlessly, so you might need to chart your route beforehand.

Many trails offer ample shade - a blessing during Tennessee's sweltering summer months. As you explore, you might catch glimpses of deer and other wildlife, especially in the no-mow zones and natural areas that provide habitats for local creatures, including bees and various bird species.

Bring Your Four-Legged Friends

Dog owners particularly love Shelby Park. While your pup needs to stay leashed in most areas, there's a dedicated dog park where they can run free. This fenced space offers plenty of room with trees and grass, plus benches where you can relax while your dog socializes. You'll find it conveniently located near a playground and the local elementary school.

Nature Escapes

Despite being relatively close to downtown, Shelby Park feels like a genuine escape into nature. Extensive wooded areas and open fields create a peaceful atmosphere that lets you temporarily forget you're in the middle of a major city.

The park provides access to the Cumberland River, offering both fishing opportunities and lovely views of the waterway. Keep an eye out for the wetland areas that become hotspots for migratory birds during fall and winter.

Beyond the Boundaries

Shelby Park connects to the larger Shelby Bottoms Greenway and Natural Area, essentially extending your outdoor adventure possibilities. This connection opens up even more hiking and biking options, linking the park to Nashville's broader network of green spaces.

The Practical Stuff

The park includes a Nature Center where you can check out educational displays about local plants and animals. Clean restrooms are available near the visitor center entrance, with portable toilets stationed at various points throughout the park. You'll discover water fountains in select locations, particularly near the visitor center - handy for refilling your bottle on hot days.