Established in 2002, the Lane Motor Museum in Nashville began with the donation of 70 vehicles from avid car enthusiast, Jeff Lane. Since its inception, the LMM has come to acquire over 300 unique and rare automobiles to the delight of visitors. Housed in the former Sunbeam Bakery, this large, 40,000 foot warehouse perfectly showcases one-of-a-kind vehicles like a 1975 Maserati Bora which can go 0-60mph within six and a half seconds and tops out at 165mph. The indoor kid's play area is a great distraction for the little ones while parents enjoy looking around.
The exterior of the Cumberland Park can deceive you to believe that it is just another local park; but its several unique features makes the Cumberland Park nothing less than a popular tourist attraction. When the weather is hot, this is a place where locals come to cool off at the on-site spray ground. Children can be seen frolicking in the water while adults take time to unwind and relax. In addition to the spray ground, Cumberland Park also has a wonderful green maze where amid all the fun rides children become oblivious to time. A climbing wall and an explorer trail also form a part of Cumberland Park.
Loved by locals and tourists alike, this 1853 mansion was once the centerpiece of a 5,400-acre (2,185 hectares), 19th-century thoroughbred farm and nursery that back then sheltered president Andrew Jackson's thoroughbred. Awash in a stately Greek Revival style, the plantation boasts a dramatically-picturesque landscape that is dotted by many plantation remnants like a stable, the Hardings Cabin and the restored slaves quarters. Still referred to as the “Queen of Tennessee Plantations,” the present 30-acre (12-hectares) environs includes many of the original outbuildings and an antique carriage collection. The plantation has also played host to many famous guests including Presidents Grover Cleveland and General Sherman. Lending insights into the indelible plantation legacy left behind by John Harding, the Belle Meade Plantation is deeply entrenched in a long-standing lineage which has been an important part of the cultural history of America.
This landmark was once home to Adelicia Acklen, one of the wealthiest women in 19th century America. Built in 1850 in the style of an Italian villa, it was originally intended to be the summer home of the Acklens. The guided tour showcases a variety of original furnishings of the period as well as Mrs. Acklen's valuable, one-of-a-kind collection of artwork and statues. A personalized tour offers interesting anecdotes along with insights about the mansion's splendid architecture. Belmont Mansion also offers unique wedding packages.
A striking glimpse into America's antebellum eon, the Hermitage tells tales of the life of the country's seventh president, Andrew Jackson. Built in 1835, this historic edifice is a confluence of culture and long-standing history. While living at the Hermitage, Jackson ran a general store, tavern and thoroughbred horse racing tracks nearby, which eventually inspired him to cease his work on the Supreme Court and focus on the Hermitage and its nearby enterprises. This classic Greek Revival mansion retains Jackson's original architecture and furnishings. Permeated with the sounds of a biographical film and museum exhibits, the site of the mansion preserves the original 1804 slave cabins, Jackson's tomb, Tulip Grove Mansion, Old Hermitage Church, and Tennessee Confederate Soldier Cemetery. The estate grounds also shelter a delightful plantation. An integral chapter in the course of American history, the Hermitage greatly immortalizes the 'People's President'.
It is fitting that the "Athens of the South" is home to the world's only full-size replica of the ancient Parthenon. Forty-six Doric columns encircle the building. The largest bronze doors in the world, weighing 7.5 tons each, stand at the East and West entrances. Featured is Athena Parthenos, the tallest indoor sculpture in the Western world. Sculptures and friezes are modeled from Elgin Marbles at the British Museum in London. There are also four art galleries. While the prices are reasonable, you can avail discounts for groups of ten or more with a reservation.