Horse racing, cycling and golf are among the fun activities in this green Nashville suburb featuring pretty parks and a glorious country estate.

Bellevue is a serene neighborhood in western Nashville known for its extensive nature trails. Cyclists and hikers love exploring the leafy parks and gardens, surrounding golf courses and former plantations. Get away from the hubbub of the city center when you visit Bellevue, a tranquil, green suburb.

For a sense of the majesty and bucolic splendor of Bellevue, bring your family to visit Cheekwood Estate and Gardens. Admire temporary art exhibits presented in the mansion and study the works in the permanent collection, which is composed of drawings, photos, sculptures and paintings.

Read the pages of a favorite children’s book as you walk along the Storybook Trail in the botanical garden of Cheekwood Estate. Colorful native wildflowers fill Howe Garden while poetry reading is offered in the Sigourney Cheek Literary Garden.

Edwin and Percy Warner Parks are south of the estate. Stroll along meandering trails leading through tranquil woodland thickets. Enjoy a meal at one of the picnic tables. Climb the Percy Warner Park Stairs and enjoy the view from the nearby Luke Lea Heights Scenic Overlook. This hilltop vantage point allows you to peer above the trees to see Nashville to the northeast.

Play a round at Percy Warner Golf Course or Harpeth Hills Golf Course. Watch horse racing at the annual Iroquois Steeplechase event at Percy Warner Park every May. Be sure to wear a wide hat and brightly colored clothing.

For a change, head northeast to the Sri Ganesha Temple. Marvel at the ornate architecture and step inside for blessings surrounded by multiple Hindu gods.

The neighborhood of Bellevue is along the western part of Nashville. From the city center, travel by bus southwest for about 45 minutes to a station in the heart of Bellevue. While you’re in the area, see other nearby districts, such as Green Hills, Belle Meade and Franklin.

With its temple and large parks, Bellevue offers a quiet and scenic getaway in the western outskirts of Nashville.