Plus, Big Machine Music City Grand Prix changes locations.
 
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65º | 4% chance of precipitation | Sunrise 6:35 a.m. | Sunset 5:28 p.m.
 

🌳 No gatekeeping this gem

Explore Nashville’s Ellington Agricultural Center
A grassy hill and walking path lined with trees in the background on a sunny day.
Ellington Agricultural Center’s trails feature a variety of terrain, from wooded areas to grassy hills. | Photo by @aerialhiking
Just 10 miles south of downtown, tucked away in the Crieve Hall neighborhood, is the Ellington Agricultural Center.

A quick Google search will tell you it’s the headquarters for the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, home to the Tennessee Agricultural Museum. Beyond its administrative offices, this 207-acre property offers plenty of open green space, walking trails, and historical points of interest.

A brief history

Originally known as Brentwood Hall, the estate was constructed in the early 1920s by financier Rogers Caldwell. The property’s 23-room mansion (known as the Brentwood House) was modeled after President Andrew Jackson’s home, The Hermitage. However, Caldwell’s fortunes dwindled during the Great Depression, leading to the transfer of ownership of the state.

In 1961, Tennessee renamed it the Ellington Agricultural Center for former Governor Buford Ellington, making it the new headquarters for the Tennessee Department of Agriculture. Several of the original buildings (read the history of each) have been restored and remodeled.

A barn-shaped "community agriculture library," similar to a Little Free Library, post surrounded by fall foliage.

The centers “Community Agriculture Library” launched as a way to share educational books with visitors. | Photo by NASHtoday

Exploring the grounds

If you’re new to the center, here’s a few things to know before you go:
  • The hilltop area offers open green spaces and mature trees near the museum, garden, and log cabins.
  • The center is listed as an official arboretum by the Nashville Tree Foundation and is home to an official iris garden near the Hogan Road entrance. Pro tip: Iris blooms typically appear in April and reach their peak in May.
  • Looking to check out the scenic 2.4-mile Rogers Walk loop along the Seven Mile Creek? Download a trail map for easy navigation.
  • Fun fact: The TDA was the first state department of agriculture in the US to be located on a working farm.
A bed of purple flowers and bench is in focus, with a white barn housing a museum in the background.

Learn all about Tennessee’s agricultural past and present at the museum. | Photo via Tennessee Agricultural Museum

Visit the museum

Housed in a former horse barn, the free Tennessee Agricultural Museum boasts over 3,000 artifacts throughout two levels of exhibits, including a children’s play area. The museum also hosts educational events year-round, from First Friday educational programs to the annual Farm Fun Day festival. It’s open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays.
Asked

Where should we explore next outdoors?
With warmer weather on the way, we know Nashvillians are itching to get outside.
(Tree)t us with your suggestion
Events
Thursday, Feb. 15
  • Third Thursdays | Thursday, Feb. 15 | 4:30 p.m.-8 p.m. | Adventure Science Center, 800 Fort Negley Blvd. | $22 | Guests 18 years and older are invited to explore the Adventure Science Center after hours.
  • The Twisted Wool Lounge - Happy Hour | Thursday, Feb. 15-Friday, Dec. 5 | Times vary | The Twisted Wool, 223 Rep. John Lewis Way N. | Cost of purchase | A new Happy Hour experience awaits at the Twisted Wool Lounge, Thursdays + Fridays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Enjoy tasty small bites, $5 well drinks, beer and wine, and a discounted specialty cocktail menu.*
Friday, Feb. 16
  • Book Talk: Steve Fishell Discusses Buddy Emmons | Friday, Feb. 16 | 11 a.m.-12 p.m. | Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S. | Cost of admission | Steve Fishell discusses his book “Buddy Emmons: Steel Guitar Icon,” inspired by interviews and autobiographical writings from the pedal steel guitar legend.
  • LANY | Friday, Feb. 16 | 7:30 p.m. | Nashville Municipal Auditorium, 417 4th Ave. N. | $59+ | The pop rock band brings their “A Beautiful Blur” tour downtown.
Saturday, Feb. 17
  • Black History In Music: Work, Worship, and Celebration | Saturday, Feb. 17 | 1-4 p.m. | Jefferson Street Sound Museum, 2004 Jefferson St. | Free+ | Join the museum on Saturdays in February to see this art exhibit honoring the businesses that made Historic Jefferson Street a musical haven.
  • Puppy Prom | Saturday, Feb. 17 | 1-6 p.m. | Hi-Wire Brewing, 820 Division St. | Free | Bring your furry friends to Puppy Prom, which features a doggy kissing booth, costume contest, and local treats.
Sunday, Feb. 18
  • Happily Connected Wedding Showcase | Sunday, Feb. 18 | 1-4 p.m. | Hermitage Golf Course, 3939 Old Hickory Blvd. | $10 | This intimate boutique-style showcase allows you to explore, experience, and enjoy what local industry professionals have to offer for your wedding or event.
Monday, Feb. 19
  • Taylor Swift Trivia Night | Monday, Feb. 19 | 6:30 p.m. | Assembly Food Hall, 5055 Broadway | Free | Karma is a Hall Pass coming straight home with you if you’re a part of the winning team at this Swift-themed trivia night.
Events calendar here
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News Notes
Biz
  • Permits indicate fast-casual Mexican restaurant Little Rey “Al Carbon” is looking to Nashville for expansion. The concept by restaurateur Ford Fry is anticipated to take space at 2019 West End Ave., previously home to Qdoba Mexican Eats. (Nashville Business Journal)
Sports
  • The 2024 SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament returns to Bridgestone Arena from Wednesday, March 13 through Sunday, March 17. Tickets for Session 1 are available now, in addition to limited premium packages with suites and all-session tickets.
List
  • Brooklyn Bowl Nashville made Billboard’s list of 26 Top Music Venues. The locale, featured under the top central US club or theater category, is noted for having successfully brought together multiple genres under one roof. Plus, don’t miss the mention of the culinary program by chef Steven Stewart.
Closed
  • Hendersonville’s The Meat Sweats BBQ closed its brick-and-mortar restaurant this week after six years serving the area. The barbecue joint confirmed in a Facebook announcement that you can still get your fix via its food truck, or through catering services.
Try This
  • Want to advertise with us but not sure where to start? Check out our self-service advertising, a quick and easy way to get acquainted with our local audience through Listings, Banner Ads, and Articles. Get started today.
Health
  • Stay ahead of your heart health with a comprehensive couples Heart + Lung scan, available in February for just $99 in honor of American Heart Month. This painless + preventative procedure typically costs up to $2,720 and can detect early signs of heart-related issues like blockages and inflammation. Book your session.*
Wellness
  • Regain’s couples therapy is accessible via phone, text, and video call and is FSA/HSA-friendly. Get 25% off your first month for Valentine’s Day.*
 
Announced

🏎️ Start your engines and head to Lebanon

IndyCar moves from downtown to Nashville Superspeedway in 2024
A race car driver in uniform pumps his fist in the air on top of his blue and orange race car in front of a small stage that says "Victory Circle" as confetti falls around him.
Before the confetti falls, here’s what you should know about changes coming to the Big Machine Music City Grand Prix. | Photo via Big Machine Music City Grand Prix
Big Machine Music City Grand Prix, which returns to Nashville in September, is shifting gears. The NTT IndyCar Series race will temporarily move from downtown to Nashville Superspeedway amid construction of the new Tennessee Titans stadium, which is expected to be completed by the 2027 season.

“There just isn’t the space needed by the race teams — nor the proper access for downtown businesses and residences — to execute the world-class event that is expected by our amazing fans, IndyCar teams, and sponsors,” Big Machine founder Scott Borchetta said.

This change marks the ninth time IndyCar will wave the checkered flag at Nashville Superspeedway, including the track’s inaugural season. Details on the weekend’s festivities, schedule, and ticket options are forthcoming, but organizers say fans can still expect a race presence downtown between activations and entertainment.
The Buy

The Buy 2.15.24 (Affiliate + Six & Main)
Some stylish sunglasses by Rheos or I Am Girl Stephanie, because we’re dreaming about summer and soaking up sunny rays. Pro tip: With the days already getting longer, it’s never too soon to start protecting your eyes.
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The Wrap
 
Skylar

Today’s edition by:
Skylar
From the editor
If Valentine’s Day had you a bit distracted yesterday, here’s your friendly reminder that early voting for the March 5 primary election is now open through Tuesday, Feb. 27. Take a look at our guide for what’s on the ballot, when and how to vote, and other important information to know before hitting the polls.
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