Alright, buckle up folks—let’s talk about one of the most underrated, weirdly peaceful, and low-key legendary outdoor spaces in Nashville: Cornelia Fort Airpark. Tucked away in the heart of East Nashville inside Shelby Bottoms Greenway, this place used to be a real-deal airport, but now it’s basically the best hidden oasis where history and nature cross paths in the chillest way possible. It’s quiet, a little eerie in the coolest sense, and somehow still feels like a secret—even though it's right there off the greenway trail. If you love a mix of storybook past, Instagram-worthy vibes, and wide-open skies, Cornelia Fort is calling your name.

🛬 A Little Backstory (Because This Ain’t Just a Park)

• Named after Cornelia Fort, Nashville native and the first female pilot to die in active military duty during WWII

• Originally built in the 1940s as a private airstrip, later transformed into a public-use airport

• Abandoned after the 2010 Nashville flood, then reimagined into part of Shelby Bottoms for walking, biking, and exploring

• You can still see runway lines, old hangar pads, and ghosty outlines of what once was—super atmospheric stuff 👻
  

🚶‍♂️ Why It’s the Perfect Day Out Spot

• Flat, paved paths = ideal for cycling, rollerblading, and chill walks 🚴‍♂️

• Surrounded by woods and river views—hello, perfect picnic backdrop 🌳🌊

• Absolute birdwatching goldmine—bring binoculars or just vibe to the nature soundtrack 🐦

• Not overly crowded = peaceful, introspective energy if you’re needing to unplug

• Great access to Shelby Bottoms Greenway, connecting to other parts of East Nashville 🛤️
  

📷 Instagram Alert: Yes, It’s Aesthetic AF

• Empty runway stretching into the trees? Instant vibe

• Faded “NO ENTRY” signs and runway markers? Feels like a movie scene

• Foggy mornings here? Unreal
  Bring a drone if you’ve got one, because the aerial shots here look straight outta Stranger Things (minus the monsters... probably)
  

🥤 What’s Around the Area?

Just minutes from Five Points, so you’ve got access to all the post-park goodies:

• Bongo East for some seriously good coffee ☕

• Rosepepper Cantina—because tacos and neon signs fix everything 🌮💡

• Five Daughters Bakery—because life is better with a 100-layer donut 🍩

• Plus, you're like 10 mins from downtown Nashville... can we say prime real estate?! 🎸
  

🧠 Bonus Trivia to Impress Your Friends

• Elvis Presley once landed at this airstrip (yes, that Elvis)

• The park is named in honor of a real badass pilot—Cornelia Fort flew in the Women’s Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron during WWII

• Rumor has it, the place gives off some serious historic energy during sunrise. Go see for yourself 🌅

🚘 Need a Car to Cruise Around Nashville Like a Local?

Whether you're jetting off to secret greenways, food-hopping through East Nashville, or taking the scenic route along the Cumberland River, Athena Car Rentals has the ride to match your vibe. We keep things smooth, simple, and seriously stylish. Reserve your car now at Athena Car Rentals or give us a shout at +1 615-471-7071—and let’s get you exploring Music City the right way.