Japanese Garden on a January day.

Cheekwood Gardens is Nashville’s fine garden. 55 acres of manicured gardens, including a traditional Japanese garden and a mile long sculpture trail, surround the 1932 home of Leslie & Mabel Cheek, who made their fortune in the sale of their family’s Maxwell House coffee.

Winter At Cheekwood

Winter time brings many changes to these gardens. Many plants lose their color and their visual appeal. The Winter garden, Japanese garden, and sculpture trail with its glass bridge are as stunning, if not more so, in the winter than other months. The art museum housed inside the Cheekwood Manor is equally impressive no matter what season you visit. My favorite exhibits are the impressive Faberge collection that goes way beyond his famous eggs, and the carvings of 20th century self taught artist William Edmondson. The one thing that isn’t as impressive is the cost.

Cheap At Cheekwood

Usually, a family of four visiting will pay $30. However, during January Dollar Days means that for the rest of this month you can experience the garden and grounds for only $1 a person! Yes, there is a catch. The garden colors are muted and the activities are reduced. Really, the only three areas of outdoor interest during the January are the Carell Woodland Sculpture Trail, the Japanese Garden, and the Turner Seasons Garden. Inside remains as attractive as ever and the smaller crowds mean more time to query the docents about the intriguing tapestry or the history behind Maxwell House coffee.