7 Must-do's When You Move to Bellevue
Enjoy a free refill ICEE at the “Reclining Theater” -
My wife calls it “the reclining theater”. It always makes me chuckle, but I know what she’s talking about. It’s one of our favorite date-night spots. If you’re new to Bellevue, here’s a little history: There used to be zero theaters, then there were two (a Regal and a Carmike), then the Regal theater was flooded during the Great Nashville Flood and for years, Bellevueans had only one option. Then, Bellevue One came along - and with it, a whole new movie viewing experience - the AMC 12. Every seat in the Bellevue One’s AMC 12 has fully reclining, really comfortable, and great-view seating. Meaning, you get the same seating experience for every movie, in every theater, every time. Additionally, they also have an expanded concessions menu (ie. hotdogs, pretzels, chicken tenders, etc.), and a full bar. Oh, and in case the title didn’t give it away: free refills Icees - the best part.
Side note: Since we can never choose, we’ve settled on our favorite flavor being half-Cherry and half-Coke.
Healthy side note: their “Cherry” flavored Icee doesn’t have food coloring (red #40), which many parents have noticed has negative side effects on their children. So no frets parents, brain freeze is your only concern.
The Warner Parks (Edwin Warner & Percy Warner)
People often ask, “what’s the difference between Edwin Warner and Percy Warner park?”. In reality, not much as they are side-by-side. But if you’re interested in the technicality, Old Hickory Blvd. separates the two and Edwin is much smaller than Percy. Both serve each other and offer unique activities and features. The parks have great hiking trails on both sides, but Edwin Warner offers a beautiful Nature Center, a model plane field, soccer and baseball fields, and large rentable pavilions for birthday parties and get-togethers. Percy Warner differs by offering cozy shelters as opposed to the party-styled pavilions at Edwin and is famous for it’s often-Instagrammed Allée / Belle Meade Steps.
Additionally, there are amazing events that take place at both locations throughout the year. Below you’ll find some information on each one.
Full-Moon Pickin’ Party - Bring an instrument and hangout with your friends under a Tennessee moon. Even though guests get a discount for bringing an instrument non-musicians are the majority. Admission often includes two drink vouchers too. #paddlefasterwehearbanjomusic
Warner Park Nature Center - There are endless events each year at the Warner Parks. Reference this site routinely and check their seasonal calendar for upcoming events for all ages.
Visit Cheekwood’s Estate and Gardens
Just North of the Warner Parks you’ll find a splendid estate surrounded by perfectly manicured gardens and rotating art exhibits. Cheekwood Estate and Gardens is a beautiful oasis amidst Nashville’s busy streets. Whether a romantic date or a summer field trip with your little ones, Cheekwood is both educational and mystical. Take the tour or walk the grounds, but either way, it’s quite magical to see what was created for a single mirror.
Go to the Annual Steeplechase
This one is for your classier side. Ladies grab your hats and gentlemen grab your bowties. The annual Iroquois Steeplechase shuts down Old Hickory Blvd. for a day while people flaunt their party’s best and watch the racing thoroughbreds. Located in Percy Warner Park, the “Steeplechase” offers a variety of ticket options and seating views. Whether you enjoy the skyboxes with binoculars or the centerfield with mud on your boots, the Steeplechase is one of Nashville’s most popular “see and be seen” events.
Local tip: If the Steeplechase isn’t your thing, make sure to avoid getting anywhere close to Old Hickory Blvd. on race day. Save yourself an hour and take Hwy 70 S or Snead Rd.
Go to a Fall Ensworth High School Football game
One of Bellevue’s most distinguished neighbors is Ensworth High School. Founded in 2004 as an extension of Ensworth’s "Red Gables” K-8 campus, Ensworth built its high school next door to the Edwin Warner park and Harpeth River. The $60 million capital campaign that launched the high school’s conception is the foundation for an award-winning campus. In addition to its educational and architectural accolades, Ensworth’s athletic department has been highly competitive across the state. Their Tigers football team has won four out of five state-championship games and has produced NFL players from it’s bench. The combination of it’s gorgeous campus, football field, and surrounding scenery make it one of the best high school football experiences in Nashville and possibly the state of Tennessee. Bring a blanket, some hot cocoa, and experience the gridiron at one of Nashville’s most prestigious private schools.
Local note: Although development for the relocation of Metro’s Hillwood High School is set to begin in soon, Ensworth is currently Bellevue’s only high school.
Hang out at Loveless for a long lunch or dinner
Iconic and historic Loveless Cafe used to be an “economy motel” that served chicken on picnic tables. The motel was closed in the 80’s but its rooms now serve as shops and special dining areas (and thankfully their food offerings have expanded). The “old house”-look still remains for dining guest but the grounds are updated for outdoor afternoon fun. From cornhole boards to bike-shops, Loveless has a wonderful campus to walk around and enjoy while you wait for your table to be prepared. Warning, that last part can be as long as two hours. Hot biscuits, jams, and sweet iced tea make this local southern icon on staple for tourists and locals alike. The portions are huge so come with a hungry appetite!
Local tip: Loveless Cafe now takes reservations on weekdays only. Call (615) 646-9700 to reserve.
Additionally, the entrance to the Natchez Trace Parkway is next door to Loveless. If you finish dinner or lunch early and there is still some daylight, a scenic drive is highly encouraged.
Go to Tailgate Brewery’s Movie Night
Southern nights in Bellevue have been a lot more fun since Tailgate Brewery took over the old Moose Lodge. Located right of Charlotte Pike in what some may refer to as “North Bellevue”, Tailgate offers a plethora of events at their headquarters location. Their summer outdoor movie nights are the perfect way to spend a laid-back night in Nashville’s western suburbs. Bring a blanket and enjoy great craft bear on top of the hilltop location while enjoying classic movies like Back to The Future, Space Jam, and Princess Bride.