FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are the grounds accessible?
Cheekwood is a historic property with hills and uneven footing. There are several areas where wheelchairs and strollers are not accessible.
- Do you have a shuttle?
Cheekwood has a shuttle that runs from 10 AM until 2 PM and can transfer you between all buildings. Please note that not all areas of the grounds are accessible by shuttle. Simply ask any of the staff at the Visitor Services Center or Gift Shop to call it for you.
- Can we use a ride share service to access Cheekwood?
We’ve partnered with Lyft to offer exclusive ride discounts to Cheekwood!
New to Lyft?: Get $5 off 3 rides at http://lyft.com/i/cheekwoodnash or download the app and enter code CHEEKWOODNASH.
- Do you have wheelchairs available?
Yes, wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis in Botanic Hall and the Museum of Art.
- What are my dining options while visiting Cheekwood?
Officially open to the public, the new Café 29 at Cheekwood. The café is located inside the newly restored Frist Learning Center Courtyard, and is open during Cheekwood’s operating hours, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday – Sunday, and offers a casual, made-to-order menu including soups, sandwiches, salads, smoothies, baked goods, a children’s menu, snacks, coffee selections and alcoholic beverages.
You are also welcome to bring your own picnic meal. We have several benches on the grounds or you can bring a blanket. There is a vending machine in the Visitor Services building.
- Can we rent Cheekwood for a wedding?
Absolutely! Click here for more information.
- Do you have something kids will enjoy?
Yes! Cheekwood is very kid-friendly with fun activities for children of all ages. On the grounds, make sure to visit our two model trains running on three separate tracks and our whimsical treehouse. Botanical bingo is also available at Visitor Services. Throughout the year we offer many special activities for kids including Tuesdays for Tots and Summer Camp.
- Do you offer guided tours?
Tours can be arranged for groups of 15 or more. Click here to learn more about our Tour options. Public Tours for individuals and families are offered throughout the year.
- Are pets allowed at Cheekwood?
Animals are not allowed unless they are service animals. We have several dog-friendly events throughout the year such as our Dog Days of Summer and Halloween Pooch Parade. Check our calendar for our upcoming dog events.
- What does my membership include?
Unlimited free admission to Cheekwood for one full year (A surcharge may apply for special exhibitions or events).
Free Parking, excluding select special events.
Reciprocal admission to nearly 200 botanical gardens, arboreta, and conservatories nationwide, and over 60 museums in the Southeast.
Invitations to Member-Only events and exhibition previews.
Discount for select special events, including Spring Art Hop and Holiday LIGHTS.
Discount for classes and workshops.
Discount and priority registration for children’s camp programs. All levels receive priority registration. Only Household and Society level memberships will receive a discount.
Discount on Lunch & Lecture.
10% discount at the Cheekwood Gift Shop and advance notification of sales throughout the year.
Personalized membership card.
- How do I volunteer?
Click here if you are interested in volunteering at Cheekwood or call 615-353-6966.
- What are the closest hotels to Cheekwood?
Since Cheekwood is in a residential neighborhood, the closest hotels are a few miles away.
Holiday Inn – Vanderbilt/Downtown
615-327-4707
615-321-1300
Hampton Inn & Suites – Green Hills
615-777-0001
- Can I bring a camera?
Photography is allowed on the Cheekwood grounds and in all buildings. Non-flash photography is sometimes allowed in the Museum of Art depending on the exhibition taking place.
Cheekwood charges a sitting fee for any pre-planned or posed photography or videography taken on the Cheekwood grounds including (but not limited to): commercial, bridal, engagement, pregnancy, birthday, family, senior or prom pictures, and corporate groups. For more information, visit our Photography & Film section.
- Is smoking allowed at Cheekwood?
Cheekwood is a smoke-free environment. Use of all smoking materials, including e-cigarettes, is prohibited on Cheekwood grounds.
- Are firearms allowed at Cheekwood?
No, firearms are not allowed on the Cheekwood property.
- What if it rains?
Cheekwood is open rain or shine. There are indoor air conditioned and heated areas for visitors including the Visitor Services Building, Gift Shop, Café 29, Mansion and the Frist Learning Center. Refunds or rain checks on admission ticket purchases are not granted for weather related reasons.
- How long does it take to see everything?
Allow yourself at least two hours to see everything. Remember, Cheekwood sits on 55 acres and the Mansion is 30,000 square feet!
- Is the Permanent Collection always on display?
The Cheekwood Permanent Collection of Fine Art includes paintings, prints, drawings, photographs, and sculpture, with an emphasis on American art produced between 1910 and 1970. The Cheekwood Permanent Collection regularly rotates. Please visit Current Exhibitions to learn what is currently on view, or contact our Museum staff with specific questions at museum@cheekwood.org.
- Are backpacks and strollers allowed at Cheekwood?
Backpacks and strollers are allowed on the grounds. However, in order to preserve the historic Cheek family home and protect the works of art, they are not allowed in the Mansion. You may return these items to your car while visiting the Mansion or temporarily stow the large items in the coat room located on the Mansion’s ground floor. Please note that Cheekwood is not responsible for the safety or security of items stored in this area.
- What if I lose something while visiting?
Please call our Security Department at 615-354-6386 for lost and found items.
- Is there a discount for memberships?
Guests may present your receipt for a discount on a year-round Cheekwood membership if purchased on the same day as entry. Redeemable in person at Visitor Services. Valid on receipt date only. Cannot be combined with any other discounts.