Shelby Bottoms Greenway & Nature Center

Shelby Bottoms Greenway is Nashville's best-kept secret for active families, and it is the place local parents bring their kids for weekend bike rides, nature walks, and the kind of unstructured outdoor time that does not cost a cent. Located in East Nashville along the Cumberland River, this 960-acre park and greenway system combines paved multi-use trails with natural wetlands, a free nature center, and connections to Nashville's growing greenway network.

The paved greenway trail is the main attraction for families with young kids. At roughly 5 miles for the full loop, the flat, smooth surface is perfect for kids on training wheels, balance bikes, scooters, or tricycles. Parents can walk alongside at a comfortable pace or ride their own bikes.

The trail winds through open meadows and alongside the Cumberland River, with enough visual variety to keep kids engaged. There are no road crossings on the main loop, which gives parents one fewer thing to worry about.

The pedestrian bridge connecting Shelby Bottoms to the Stones River Greenway is a highlight. Crossing the Cumberland River on foot or bike with the Nashville skyline visible to the west is scenic and slightly thrilling — the bridge has a gentle sway that kids notice and find exciting. The bridge connection also opens up miles of additional greenway riding for families who want a longer outing.

The Shelby Bottoms Nature Center is a free facility with live animal exhibits, educational displays about local ecosystems, and Saturday nature programs for kids. The live animal room has native Tennessee turtles, snakes (safely behind glass), and aquarium tanks with local fish species. The staff runs seasonal programs that include guided nature walks, animal encounters, and environmental education — all free.

Check their schedule before visiting.

Behind the nature center, a boardwalk trail extends into the wetland area. This short, accessible path passes through marshland where great blue herons fish, turtles sun on logs, and during spring, the chorus of frogs is deafening. The boardwalk is stroller-accessible and flat, making it manageable for families with very young children.

The park's proximity to East Nashville's dining scene is a bonus. After a morning ride or nature walk, families can drive 5 minutes to Five Points for pizza, burgers, or tacos at some of Nashville's most celebrated casual restaurants.