Join the Cumberland River Compact for a walking tour along the Cumberland River! You’ll learn all about the powerful connection between water stewardship and the growth of Nashville from experienced Compact staff. From the earliest developments on the river to modern innovations in green infrastructure, this tour uncovers how water has shaped the city – and vice versa – for over 300 years.
Discover how Downtown Nashville sits within the broader Cumberland River basin and how past industries, from steamboats to sawmills, helped forge the city’s riverfront identity. Stand where early settlers once arrived, explore how river-powered commerce sparked a rivalry with railroads, and hear about how historic floods prompted bold new solutions.
You’ll visit iconic landmarks like Fort Nashboro, the steamboat mural, the Bridge Building, and Ascend Amphitheater – each revealing a layer of Nashville’s evolving relationship with the Cumberland River. Plus, learn how the Cumberland River Compact’s water conservation and stewardship efforts across the basin are intertwined with shaping a cleaner, greener Nashville.
Whether you’re a history buff, an environmentalist, or just curious, you’ll love this immersive tour that blends ecology and urban planning to create a compelling story of resilience and renewal. No matter how much Nashville changes, clean and abundant water will always be essential.
Please note that this is a walking tour along the Cumberland River in Downtown Nashville. Participants should be prepared to traverse approximately 0.8 miles with a group, stopping at historical markers along the way. Bring a hat, reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and other sun-protection as needed. Accessibility inquiries can be made to info@cumberlandrivercompact.org.
*Please register at the link above so we have an accurate headcount.
