Cheekwood Holiday Lights: What to Know Before Visiting

The display is fun for all ages

There’s just something about holiday lights that seems to put everyone in a good mood.

From beautiful displays to warm cocktails, there’s lots to see here for adults. There are also plenty of things catering to younger visitors. The two-acre Bracken Foundation Children’s Garden comes to life as lights on the trees move in time with music. Plus, the biggest draw for kids is without a doubt the TRAINS! exhibit. It features model trains making their way through different landscapes under colorful lights. There is even an expert on-hand to answer questions from the curious.

There’s lots of food and drink to keep you warm

Café 29, Cheekwood’s on-site restaurant, is always a good bet for dinner, serving flatbreads, salads, and sandwiches. There are also other spots around the grounds to grab a bite, so you’re sure not to be hungry as you explore.

For something fun, don’t miss the seasonal specialties. There are s’mores stations at the fire pits, which are a great way to warm up and make something delicious. There are also several kiosks throughout the garden selling warm drinks like hot chocolate, spiced apple cider, and hot toddies.

Choose appropriate footwear

There is a lot of ground to cover to see all the great holiday exhibits. With 55 acres of gardens and one mile of lights, make sure to select comfortable, warm footwear. There’s nothing worse than having your feet hurt or being cold for the evening.

Not every area of Cheekwood is lit

Some lovely parts of the garden aren’t on the light trail, including the Family Sculpture Trail and the Japanese Garden. If you want to explore there, it might be a good idea to bring a small flashlight, though it’s not strictly necessary.

There are lots of photo opps

From the candy cane forest to the light show outside the mansion, there are lots of spots to take great photos around the grounds. Don’t miss the poinsettia tree and the glowing arch, which are always popular.

Mansion tours are extra

One of the top attractions in Nashville, part of what makes Cheekwood special is its historic mansion that dates from 1932. The 36-room building that once belonged to the Wood family is now an art gallery.

During the holidays, the mansion has special, seasonal-themed exhibits. This year features the work of Laura Dowling, former Chief Floral Designer for the White House, who has created grand wreaths, Christmas trees, and garlands for the space. Dowling’s work is alongside an exhibit highlighting nearly 60 years of holiday decorations at the White House as conceptualized by First Ladies from Jacqueline Kennedy to Michelle Obama.

Visiting the mansion requires a specific mansion and garden ticket, which is just $3 more than the gardens-only ticket.

Discounted tickets are available

If you don’t mind visiting on weeknights or on the later side, it’s possible to save a few dollars and still have a premium experience. Admission on Monday through Thursday nights is $6 less than weekends. Late Night Lights tickets–which are an additional $6 cheaper–are available for guests arriving at the 8:30pm time slot during the week.