Shelby bottoms Nature Center

If you want to escape from the city right in the heart of Nashville, Shelby Bottoms is the place to explore.

The Shelby Bottoms Nature Center is a place to learn about Nashville’s natural and urban ecology. The SBNC is home to natural and cultural history exhibits; a library with many field ID guides, natural and cultural history titles, and children’s books; as well as an art exhibition and program space.

The campus includes several gardens, beehives, and the children’s Nature Play area.

The nature center is the southern trailhead for approximately five miles of paved ADA accessible trails and 5 miles of primitive trails that take you through the wetlands and forest of the Shelby Bottoms Natural Area.

Hours
Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday:
9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Wednesday and Friday:
12:00-4:00 p.m.
Sunday and Monday:
Closed

Address
1900 Davidson St.
Nashville, TN 37206
(615) 862-8539
shelbybottomsnature@nashville.gov

Public Programs

The center offers a wide range of free public nature and environmental education programs, school field trips, educator training workshops, outdoor recreation programs, individual and group volunteer opportunities, student internship possibilities, Girl and Boy Scout programs, and other special activities for people of all ages.

Getting Around

The Shelby Bottoms trails are great for walking, running, and biking. Note: bicycles are not permitted off of paved trails to protect the sensitive natural wetlands found in Shelby Bottoms

Need a bike? Nashville B-Cycle has a rental station where residents and visitors can grab a bike to ride on the Shelby Bottoms and other connected Greenways and bike lanes.

Other Information and Park Rules

  • Free admission

  • Pets allowed; must be on 6 foot or shorter leash

  • Collecting of plant, fungi, wildlife, or other natural or historic items prohibited without permit from Metro Parks (Contact Nature Center for permit information)

  • 15 MPH bike/pedestrian speed limit on the greenway

  • Bike on paved trails only

  • 20 MPH vehicle speed limit on park roads

  • Motorized vehicles not permitted on greenway

  • Camping not permitted in parks

  • No alcohol, drugs, or firearms allowed in parks at any time

  • No hunting or trapping permitted