On a hot day in Nashville, the sight of the fountains of the Legislative Plaza are a blessed relief. Serving as the front yard of the Capitol, the State Museum and the War Memorial, the stone-paved expanse is a great place for a break in between visiting the city’s biggest attractions. Sit in the shadow of the stark neoclassical façades of the three buildings and snack on a Nashville chicken sandwich, or just sip a cool drink as the water of the fountains gurgles.
Wander around the plaza, appreciating the monumental civic architecture that rises up on three sides. Notice the controversial statue dedicated to the Women of the Confederacy, sculpted by Belle Kinney. Meditate on the role that women played in the Civil War, on both sides of the conflict, and on the special symbolic role that they played in the Confederacy. Continue on to the plaza’s other monument, by sculptor Russell Faxon, of the Tennesseans who served in the Korean War.
Imagine the activity that is going on underneath the paving stones, where the Motlow Tunnel connects state workers to the Tennessee Capitol. Since there are no benches, sit on the steps or on the edge of the fountain and watch as politicians enter and leave the Capitol, or as visitors from all around the country come to pay respects to the War Memorial or visit the exhibits of the State Museum. Keep an eye on the calendar to see what events may be taking place on the wide expanse, which is often taken over by cultural groups. Otherwise, just take advantage of the relative peace and quiet before heading back into the hubbub of the city.
Legislative Plaza is located in the middle of Nashville’s government center, just north of Broadway. Walk from the Ryman Auditorium in 10 minutes or from Riverfront station in 17 minutes. Take a cab from Riverfront station in 7 minutes. The plaza is accessible to visitors daily during regular business hours. Special events may change these hours, and may charge admission. There are security checks on most of the buildings surrounding the plaza.
