Art aficionados and nature lovers alike should plan on making a stop at the Cheekwood Estate & Gardens. With its greenhouses, sculpture trail and chromatic flower display, the 55-acre Botanical Garden offers sanctuary from downtown's bustle. The on-site art museum is just as beautiful: Housed in the original Georgian-style Cheek family mansion at the heart of the grounds, the museum boasts an impressive collection of 19th- and 20th-century American art, as well as antique furniture, temporary exhibitions and artifacts from around the world.

Recent visitors recommended a spring or summer visit since that's when the gardens are at their most beautiful. Some who visited in the winter and fall were disappointed with the limited blooms to see; however, many said the December holiday lights display was enchanting. Overall, travelers said Cheekwood offers lovely walking trails and well-manicured gardens.

Located approximately 8 miles southwest of downtown Nashville, Cheekwood is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission for adults costs $20, seniors (older than 65) pay $18 and children ages 3 to 17 enter for $13. The museum also hosts numerous festivals; for more information, check out the Cheekwood website.