|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cheekwood Keeps On Rollin' as It Gears Up for America's 250th Birthday Celebration
Cheekwood keeps on rollin' as it gears up for America's 250th birthday, and the celebration is already in full swing. It all began in March with Red, White & Blooms, where 250,000 red and white tulips burst into patriotic patterns alongside purple‑blue violas and hyacinths. From there, the momentum carried into America the Beautiful, which opened in May and runs through September 6, 2026.
America's National Parks and Landmarks By Rail at Cheekwood. This expansive outdoor exhibition spotlights America's National Parks and Landmarks By Rail. With 10 trains, 850 feet of track, and 25 iconic destinations - it's Cheekwood's largest outdoor train installation to date, stretching across the entire Bradford Robertson Color Garden. It's also completely separate from their beloved permanent TRAINS! exhibit, which will be running all summer for double the delight. This immersive experience carries visitors coast to coast through some of the nation's most treasured sites. Designed by Applied Imagination the creative force behind Cheekwood's year‑round TRAINS! Each miniature structure is a handcrafted marvel made from natural materials like willow branches, cedar, pinecones and carved logs. Tracks weave overhead and at ground level, threading through flowers, shrubs, caves and tunnels to create a living landscape where trains glide through a botanical celebration of America.
Kids of all ages were enjoying the trains on a Friday morning in May. Among the standout creations: a 22‑foot Golden Gate Bridge with bark‑textured piers and delicate willow "ironwork", and a striking Statue of Liberty fashioned from palm leaves. The Southwest comes alive with The Alamo and Taos Pueblo, while the Civil Rights movement is honored through Dr. King's Birth Home. Tennessee landmarks shine too, including a Tri‑Star tribute to Graceland, the Ryman Auditorium and charming Smoky Mountain structures. Every piece is rich with details and craftsmanship so take your time to fully appreciate this one-of-a-kind display that celebrates what is great about America. "This summer's blockbuster train exhibition is designed to spark curiosity and wonder for guests of all ages," said Jane MacLeod, President and CEO of Cheekwood Estate & Gardens. "From the intricate craftsmanship to the recognizable landmarks, it's an experience that blends learning, creativity and fun in a way only Cheekwood can offer." Beyond America the Beautiful, Cheekwood offers plenty more to explore: the serene Japanese Garden, stone sculptures tucked into lush summer pathways, and an ever‑changing array of seasonal plantings. The Historic Mansion is also a must‑see, showcasing the Cheek family's elegant home, personal artifacts - and both permanent and rotating art collections. Throughout the year, Cheekwood hosts camps, concerts, horticulture workshops and special events making every visit a new experience.
A replica of the Ryman Auditorium is one of many national landmarks featured at the exhibit. And mark your calendar now: Cheekwood's Community Celebration returns June 4-7, 2026. This four‑day festival features daytime and evening concerts, family‑friendly activities and seasonal experiences woven throughout the gardens and historic estate. Programming includes a concert series inspired by iconic Tennessee landmarks and musical traditions from Memphis' legacy to Nashville's sound to the bluegrass of the Smokies. Inside the Mansion and Museum, visitors can explore American art exhibitions including An American Story: Paintings from The Parthenon's Cowan Collection and Common Ground: The Hainsworth Collection in Conversation with Cheekwood's Permanent Collection. Outside, guests can enjoy food trucks, specialty cocktails, a passport scavenger hunt and hands‑on art activities for all ages. For more details and tickets to the Community Celebration please visit Cheekwood's website at https://cheekwood.org
The Bradford Robertson Color Garden was in full blooms with trains in 2026. Related Links: For more information on CHEEKWOOD and the other organizations mentioned please visit the following links - Cheekwood Estate and Gardens
|
|
. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
All Rights Reserved |
