Monroe Carell Jr. Children'S Hospital At Vanderbilt

Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Information in Nashville

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: About Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt

Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt is a leading pediatric medical center in Nashville, Tennessee, renowned for its commitment to exceptional child health care and community engagement. The hospital’s roots trace back to 1923 with the founding of the Home for Crippled Children. Through the philanthropic efforts of Monroe Carell Jr. and Ann Scott Carell, it became Middle Tennessee’s first freestanding children’s hospital in 2004. Today, it stands as a premier institution dedicated to both clinical excellence and family-centered support.

This comprehensive guide details the hospital’s history, visitor policies, amenities, accessibility features, and nearby attractions. Whether you are a patient’s family member, a prospective volunteer, or simply want to learn more about one of Nashville’s most important healthcare landmarks, this resource will help you navigate your visit with confidence. For up-to-date information on visiting hours and special events, always refer to the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital official website.

Introduction and Historical Overview
Hospital Growth and Facilities
Visiting Information
Getting to the Hospital
Guided Tours and Special Events
Family and Visitor Services
Parking and Transportation
Visitor Conduct and Safety
Nearby Attractions in Nashville
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Key Visitor Tips
Sources

Historical Overview

The hospital’s journey began in 1923 through a partnership between the Junior League of Nashville and Vanderbilt University, establishing the Home for Crippled Children. Over the decades, pediatric care at Vanderbilt expanded, culminating in the 2004 opening of Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital, thanks to the Carell family’s significant philanthropic contributions. Since then, the facility has grown from 206 beds to over 325, with ongoing expansions—including the Ann Scott Carell Pavilion—projected to bring capacity to over 400 beds and 1 million square feet of space.

The hospital now operates more than 30 off-site clinics across Tennessee, Kentucky, and Alabama, further extending its reach and impact.

The Hospital Today: Facilities, Recognition, and Excellence

Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital is nationally recognized in all 10 pediatric specialties by U.S. News & World Report and leads the state in pediatric care and research. The hospital’s Department of Pediatrics secures significant NIH funding and is recognized with multiple Magnet designations for nursing excellence. Family-centered care, innovative treatments, and a welcoming environment are central to its mission.

Visiting Information

Visiting Hours and Policies

General Visiting Hours: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily for most visitors.
Parents/Guardians: Considered essential caregivers, parents and legal guardians have 24/7 access.
Special Units: Areas like the PICU and NICU may have more restrictive access—contact staff for specific guidelines.
Health Screening: All visitors undergo health screening at entry. As of July 2025, masks are optional except for those with respiratory symptoms.

For the latest updates and policy changes, check Visitor Policies at Monroe Carell.

Admission and Ticketing

General Admission: Free for all visitors and families of patients. No ticket is required for routine visits.
Special Events/Tours: Some events and guided tours require advance registration. Check the hospital’s event calendar for details.

Accessibility and Amenities

Physical Accessibility: Fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and designated parking.
Wheelchair Assistance: Available at entrances.
Interpreter Services: For non-English speakers, available by calling (615) 322-7378.
Amenities: Playrooms, family lounges, dining options, and gift shops are available throughout the hospital.

Getting to the Hospital

Address:
Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt
2200 Children’s Way
Nashville, TN 37232

Directions:

By Car: Accessible via I-65 and I-40; follow signs to Children’s Way.
Parking: Use the South Garage (Children’s Way between 23rd and 24th Avenues). Free valet available weekdays, 5 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Public Transit: Multiple bus routes serve the Vanderbilt area.
Airport: Nashville International Airport is about 10 miles away.

For detailed transportation info, visit Hospital Location & Parking.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Tours: By appointment only. Ideal for groups interested in hospital history, architecture, or pediatric care.
Special Events: Includes fundraising galas, health fairs, and community engagement programs. See the online events calendar for the latest schedule.

Family and Visitor Services

Patient Relations: (615) 322-6154 (8 a.m. – 5 p.m.); after hours, call (615) 936-1000.
Pharmacy: Located on the second floor for outpatient needs. (615) 936-6337.
Playrooms: On each floor, staffed by volunteers.
Spiritual Care: Chaplaincy services at (615) 936-0425.
Mail & Deliveries: Address with patient’s full name and room number.

Family and Visitor Services

Parking and Transportation

Short-Term Parking: Use the South Garage. Free valet on weekdays.
Long-Term Parking: Call (615) 936-1215 for arrangements.
Shuttle Service: Hospitality shuttle serves Ronald McDonald House and Hospitality House; call (615) 936-1215.
RV Parking: Available at Lot 75; call for details.

Visitor Conduct and Safety

Prohibited Items: Weapons, alcohol, illegal drugs, tobacco, latex balloons, large plants, and unapproved food.
General Conduct: Quiet, respectful behavior expected. Cell phones must be silenced; photography is not allowed without permission.
Family-Centered Care: Families are encouraged to participate in care discussions. Child Life specialists and the Family Resource Center support families.

Visitor Policies

Food, Amenities, and Accommodations

Patient Meals: Coordinated by food services at (615) 936-4780.
Visitor Dining: Cafeterias and vending machines available.
Gift Shop: The Friends Shop (615) 936-6186 for snacks, gifts, and essentials.
Accommodations: Ronald McDonald House (615-343-4000), Hospitality House, and other local hotels. Shuttle service available.

Nearby Attractions in Nashville

Take advantage of the hospital’s central location to explore:

Vanderbilt University Campus: Historic and scenic.
Centennial Park: Features the Parthenon replica.
Country Music Hall of Fame: Celebrating Nashville’s music heritage.
Adventure Science Center and Nashville Zoo: Family-friendly options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the general visiting hours?
A: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM for most visitors; parents/guardians have 24/7 access.

Q: Are masks required for visitors?
A: Optional, but may be required for those with respiratory symptoms.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, South Garage offers convenient visitor parking with free valet on weekdays.

Q: Can I bring food for a patient?
A: Only with prior approval from medical staff.

Q: Are there nearby accommodations?
A: Yes, including Ronald McDonald House and other hospitality houses, plus hotels.

Q: Is the hospital accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, including wheelchair access and interpreter services.

Q: Can I bring gifts or flowers?
A: Some units have restrictions; check with staff before bringing items.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Only service animals are permitted.

Summary of Key Visitor Information and Tips

Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt is a beacon of pediatric healthcare, combining a rich legacy, clinical excellence, and robust family support services. Visitors benefit from clear policies, comprehensive accessibility, and a range of amenities that make the hospital experience as comfortable as possible. With its central Nashville location, families can also enjoy nearby cultural and recreational attractions during their stay.

For a smooth visit:

Always review the hospital’s latest visitor guidelines before arriving.
Plan ahead for parking and accommodations.
Take advantage of support resources such as the Family Resource Center and hospitality shuttle.
Use the Audiala app for real-time updates and hospital navigation.

For more information and updates, visit the official hospital website.

Sources

Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt: A Visitor’s Guide and Historical Overview, 2025 (https://www.childrenshospitalvanderbilt.org)
Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt: Visiting Information and Visitor Guide, 2025 (https://www.childrenshospitalvanderbilt.org)
Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt Visiting Hours and Visitor Guidelines, 2025 (https://www.childrenshospitalvanderbilt.org)
Vanderbilt Visitor Policies, 2025 (https://www.vanderbilthealth.com/information/visitor-policies-vanderbilt-hospitals-and-clinics)