Sometimes, there is nothing as revitalizing as stepping away from our busy lives to spend the day in nature with our closest friends. If you’re looking for the perfect place to do so, look no further than Cheekwood Estate and Gardens.
Located just a few miles from Vanderbilt’s campus is Cheekwood, the historical estate belonging to the Cheek family. Originally built in 1929, the 55-acre estate features the luxurious Cheek mansion as well as enchanting gardens sprinkled throughout the expansive grassland. Today, the estate hosts dozens of seasonal festivals and events that make it a popular weekend destination for Nashville for tourists and locals alike.
Sitting atop a distant hill is the gorgeous family mansion that is open to Cheekwood guests. Much of the home’s interior has been preserved and now serves as a museum housing a selection of original Cheek items, including silverware and furniture. One of the most spectacular pieces on display is an ensemble of metal chalices. They are arranged in layers, with the chalice at the peak connected to intricate wirework shaped into swirls, flowers and birds. This piece is just one of many unique and captivating works in the estate’s collection. Each room in the house contained a display of exquisite paintings and detailed furnishings that made it easy to forget I was minutes from my 21st-century college campus. Even the gift shop was full of various antique items fitting the 18th-century aesthetic.
I walked down from the mansion through the Martin Boxwood Gardens that encircle the house. The garden is filled with stonework and classical statues, drawing the eye to its main element: a long reflective pool surrounded by trees and shrubs. Overlooking the pool is a column balcony encompassed by the greenest leafy stems from surrounding plants, making for an incredible photo op.
I had the pleasure of visiting Cheekwood during their famous Harvest. Upon walking in, I was greeted by the Pumpkin Village, which consists of many wood and straw huts. The outside of each hut is lined with pumpkins ranging in size and color. They have openings on the sides in the shape of windows and a big open arch in the front, making them ideal for fall pictures. One sign caught my eye as I strolled through the various huts: “Happy Fall with love, the Kidman Urban family.” I knew I had to snap a picture for the biggest Nicole Kidman fan I know — my mom.
Every weekend from Sept.14 to Oct. 27, there were bands playing live music in the Beer Garden, and a few local food trucks were set up serving amazing food and refreshing drinks. The atmosphere of the event was warm and inviting, with string lights hanging above us as we walked past picnic tables where dozens of families gathered, sharing everything from barbeque to charcuterie boards and singing along to the music. Between the band and people relaxing on blankets on the grass, orange and white pumpkins added to the charm. It felt like a scene straight out of a cozy fall movie.
But fun at Cheekwood is year-round. Even though their fall season has ended, they are ringing in the start of winter and the holidays with their upcoming special events. Their Christmas festivities begin on Nov. 22 with their 10th Annual Holiday LIGHTS event. It is a one-mile walk through the estate’s gardens, which are lit up with over a million shiny lights. You’ll be able to enjoy some s’mores and visit the Holiday Marketplace, where they sell everything holiday-related, from toys and games to home decor. Additionally, they will have a fascinating exhibit called “Holidays at the White House with the First Ladies: Jacqueline Kennedy to Michelle Obama” that will showcase White House Christmas decor and special moments shared by the first families during the holidays.
After visiting Cheekwood, I understand why it remains so popular. With art exhibits, live entertainment and delicious food, it’s an ideal spot to take a break from schoolwork and enjoy the vibrant gardens with friends. With all its seasonal events, it is a place you can visit many times and never get bored of. Make sure you don’t skip out on this Nashville gem!
