Fannie Mae Dees Park, known as Dragon Park, is a family-friendly green space at 2400 Blakemore Ave in Nashville, near Vanderbilt. Its centerpiece is a large mosaic sea serpent that children can climb and explore. Play areas include swings, slides, climbing structures and equipment for different ages, with an all-abilities section. Shady trees, picnic tables and open grass make it easy to take a break while children play; tennis courts and a small wooden play structure with a bridge and tunnel add more to explore.
Why it is called Dragon Park
Fannie Mae Dees Park is named for a Nashville woman who grew flowers for patients at local hospitals and nursing homes. Its better-known nickname comes from the large mosaic sea serpent in the children’s play area. Created by artist Pedro Silva and decorated by local artists and volunteers, the sculpture has been in the park since the 1980s.
The dragon’s segmented form winds across the play area, with colorful mosaic details that children can examine as they climb. It is also a natural place to take photographs. The sculpture is the park’s central landmark, but the surrounding play spaces give families room to spend more time here.
Play areas and places to pause
The park has play equipment for different ages, including a larger structure with climbing equipment and slides, swings, and a separate area for younger children. An all-abilities play area includes wheelchair-accessible equipment and swings designed for children with disabilities. The equipment and layout make it possible for children with different needs to use the park.
Beyond the main playground, families can find a wooden structure raised on stones, with a small bridge and a circular tunnel beneath it. Open fields provide space to run or throw a frisbee, while mature trees offer shade. Picnic tables and covered shelters give adults a place to rest nearby. The park also has tennis courts.
Planning a visit
The park is at 2400 Blakemore Ave, near Vanderbilt and the Hillsboro Village area. An early visit can mean fewer people in the play areas and a better chance of finding parking. Bring food if you plan to stay for a picnic, and allow time to explore the grounds beyond the dragon.
Dogs are allowed, and the park has walking paths, public restrooms and parking. Families with young children can make the playground the focus; anyone seeking a quieter stop can use the shaded seating and open green space. The range of play equipment and outdoor areas makes the park useful for a short break or a longer family visit.
FAQ
Why is Fannie Mae Dees Park called Dragon Park?
The nickname comes from the large mosaic sea serpent in the children’s play area. The sculpture has been at the park since the 1980s.
Is Fannie Mae Dees Park suitable for children with disabilities?
The park has an all-abilities play area with wheelchair-accessible equipment and swings designed for children with disabilities.
Are dogs allowed at Fannie Mae Dees Park?
Yes. Dogs are allowed in the park.
What can you do at Fannie Mae Dees Park besides visit the playground?
You can picnic at the tables or on the grass, walk through the park, use the tennis courts, or explore the wooden bridge and tunnel structure.
