famous places to visit in nashville

Nashville   Travel Guide

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28 Best Things to Do in Nashville, Tennessee

There’s more to Nashville than the live entertainment and bars on Broadway (though those are very much worth experiencing – especially on a guided tour ). In recent years, Nashville has propelled its "It City" status by becoming a beacon for

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
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• 3-Day Itinerary

Grand Ole Opry Grand Ole Opry

U.S. News Insider Tip: Take the “Women of Country” tour to learn about the women who shaped country music, from Dolly Parton to Carrie Underwood, complete with mimosas and petit fours. – Kellie Walton

The Grand Ole Opry began as a radio show in 1925, and it put Nashville on the map as the "Country Music Capital of the World." Throughout its history, the Grand Ole Opry has called several different places home (including the Ryman Auditorium ), but has always hosted country performers from legends like Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton to favorites like Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban.

Ryman Auditorium Ryman Auditorium

IU.S. News Insider Tip:  Take the tour to learn of this building's fascinating history, and check the calendar to see if you can experience a live performance. The intimacy of the space and amazing acoustics are one-of-a-kind. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

There's no better place to start absorbing Nashville's musical heritage than the Ryman Auditorium. It's no longer home to the Grand Ole Opry , but the venue continues to host contemporary acts like Trace Adkins, Blake Shelton and Luke Combs. The Ryman is not only for country stars however; it has hosted musicians like Paul Simon and comedians such as John Mulaney. Recent visitors suggest opting for a tour to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the legendary music venue. Sit in on the "Soul of Nashville" screening for a multidimensional experience that uses archival images and footage of performers from the Ryman's past to illustrate its role in music history. Plus, you can learn about the building's backstory with its "Workin' on a Building" exhibit, which displays artifacts from the Ryman's construction. What's more, you can test out your own pipes at the recording studio (subject to availability). The Ryman is also a featured stop on many of the city's top guided tours .

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Check the calendar for Songwriter Sessions (typically on Saturdays) in the Ford Theater, for a glimpse into the songwriting process. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Music and history lovers can mix and mingle over the exhibits found at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Peruse the plaques dedicated to country music's finest – from Patsy Cline to Reba McEntire to Alan Jackson – and walk among artifacts like Johnny Cash's guitar and Elvis Presley's "solid gold" Cadillac limo. For an interactive history lesson on the roots and evolution of country music, take a self-guided walk through the "Sing Me Back Home: A Journey Through Country Music" exhibit. In addition to its permanent exhibit, the museum hosts various revolving temporary exhibits, which often focus on particular artists. Stop to browse the two-story wall plastered gold and platinum country records, and then head to Historic RCA Studio B . One of the world's most influential recording studios and a Music Row landmark, Studio B produced more than 35,000 songs by legends like Dolly Parton, Waylon Jennings and Roy Orbison. (Note: Studio B is about 1.5 miles southwest of the museum.)

Popular Tours

Grand Ole Opry Show Admission Ticket in Nashville

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from $ 57.70

Nashville Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour

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from $ 52.39

Nashville Biggest & Wildest Party Public Tractor Tour (Ages 21 + )

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from $ 44.95

Broadway Broadway free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Bar hop among the different Broadway bars to hear some of the most talented singers in the city. Bring some cash to tip the musicians and request your favorite country songs. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

While many people visit Nashville to soak up the history of country music at the city's museums (like the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum ), others prefer enjoying the tunes in person. The best way to do that is to visit Broadway, downtown Nashville's main thoroughfare. Lower Broadway is nicknamed the "Honky Tonk Highway" because of the numerous spots that host live acts daily. What's more, there's no cover charge to the establishments, so you can bar hop as you please.

National Museum of African American Music National Museum of African American Music

The city of Nashville embodies more than just country music, and nowhere is this more apparent than at the National Museum of African American Music. Opened in 2021, the museum aims to educate visitors on the influence of African American people on more than 50 genres of popular music, including jazz, gospel and hip-hop.

Each of the museum's galleries focuses on how African American music changed through specific time periods. The "Wade in the Water" gallery highlights the call-and-response spirituals of the 1600s, while the "Crossroads" gallery showcases the emergence of blues music. The "A Love Supreme" gallery teaches museumgoers about the musical traditions of New Orleans and the emergence of the music now known as jazz, and the "One Nation Under a Groove" gallery details the emergence of R&B starting in the 1940s and chronicles music popularized by the civil rights era. Finally, "The Message" gallery offers a detailed look into hip-hop, rap and youth culture up until the present day. Interactive elements and musical artifacts like sheet music and costumes add to the informative displays. Recent visitors came away deeply impressed with everything from the comprehensive history presented to entertaining interactive exhibits.

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge Tootsie's Orchid Lounge

After a day exploring the roots of the "Country Music Capital of the World," why not experience the sounds of Music City first-hand? If you're looking for a fun atmosphere with top-notch performances, Tootsie's "World Famous" Orchid Lounge on Broadway is the place to go. Since the days when the Grand Ole Opry  called the  Ryman Auditorium  home, this downtown bar has been featuring performances by both world-renowned and up-and-coming artists. Indeed, the place abounds in country music history: part of the Loretta Lynn biopic "A Coal Miner’s Daughter" was filmed here, and legend has it that Willie Nelson got his first songwriting job after performing at Tootsie's.

Patrons have mixed opinions about Tootsie's with some complaining about average food, expensive drinks, and musicians assertively soliciting tips, while others say the multiple floors of first-rate music make up for the woes. Though some travelers bemoan the bar's cramped atmosphere, many believe it's part of the Tootsie's experience.

Best Nashville Tours

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Bluebird Cafe Bluebird Cafe

U.S. News Insider Tip: This intimate venue is where stars like Garth Brooks were discovered. Check the calendar at least a month prior to your visit to get tickets in advance. There's a very limited amount of tickets that might be released the day of, but it's a must-experience spot in Music City. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

The Bluebird Cafe is an intimate, 90-seat music venue that presents two shows per night every night of the week. Despites its unimpressive appearance, location in a strip mall outside of downtown and small size, the Bluebird achieved a reputation as a songwriter's space, and many significant performers have graced its stage over the years. Garth Brooks, for instance, performed at its open mic night before hitting the big time. Be aware that the cafe has a "Shhh policy" which encourages folks to stay quiet during all performances. (As souvenir you can buy a T-shirt with "Shhhh!" printed on the back.)

Centennial Park Centennial Park free

Encompassing the site of the 1897 Tennessee Centennial Exposition, 132-acre Centennial Park boasts an art center, a lake, a walking trail, a band shell, volleyball courts, a dog park and various historical monuments. It's also home to the Parthenon as well as the Centennial Sportsplex, a facility for swimming, tennis and year-round ice skating. The park hosts numerous festivals as well as free concerts on Saturdays in spring and fall.

Reviewers frequently say that this peaceful, well-maintained greenspace is a lovely place to take a walk. Many say the Parthenon is the must-see attraction here.

General Jackson Showboat Lunch or Dinner Cruise in Nashville

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Grand Ole Opry House Guided Backstage Tour

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Discover Nashville City Tour with Entry to Ryman & Country Music Hall of Fame

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Historic RCA Studio B Historic RCA Studio B

In its heyday, this recording studio welcomed greats like Elvis Presley, Chet Atkins, and the Everly Brothers through its doors. It is now part of the nonprofit Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum , and has been restored and renovated to reflect its historic roots. Built in 1957, the studio became famous for promoting the "Nashville sound" and put the city on the map as an international recording center. Today, visitors can take a tour of the studio to see where the stars recorded their music. Visitors give high marks to informative and engaging guides, with many saying the tour was a highlight of their visit to Nashville.

The studio is about 1.5 miles away from the Country Music Hall of Fame, where the tours depart (transportation is included). One-hour tours of Studio B are offered between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Tickets for adults are $51.95 and include admission to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Youth tickets are $41.95. More information can be found on the website .

Nelson's Green Brier Distillery Nelson's Green Brier Distillery

Fans of Tennessee whiskey and bourbon should make time for a stop at Nelson's Green Brier Distillery during their visit to Nashville. The distillery's roots reach back to the late 1800s, when Charles Nelson, a German immigrant, started producing whiskey in Greenbrier, Tennessee. It became so popular he ended up selling about 2 million bottles of whiskey in 1885 alone. Nelson was one of the first distillery owners to sell whiskey in bottles rather than more cumbersome jugs or barrels, which allowed him to achieve wide-spread distribution. He died in 1891 and his wife Louisa took over, though in 1909, Tennessee’s statewide Prohibition forced her to shutter the operation. Nearly 100 years later, the couple's great-great-great-grandsons, brothers Andy and Charlie Nelson, restored the business and brought the operation to Nashville. Today, the venue features the distillery, a tasting room, an event space and a gift and bottle shop. Tours of the distillery run on weekends.

Past travelers called the tasting fun and informational. Others said to sign up for a tour. Visitors said the friendly staff members were particularly knowledgeable and all the whiskey samples were excellent.

The Hermitage The Hermitage

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're a history buff, be sure to visit this historic site for a glimpse into the life of Andrew Jackson, as well as the realities of the lives of the enslaved people of the estate. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Constructed between 1819 and 1821 for President Andrew Jackson, this Federal-style mansion stands as a National Historic Landmark and a preserved window into the home life of Jackson. Many may be familiar with Jackson from his role in the War of 1812, his stint as president and his appearance on the $20 bill, but a tour of the massive estate provides a more up-close-and-personal look. Along the guided tour you'll see the main house, plus have (unguided) access to the garden, the quarters where enslaved people lived, Jackson's tomb and the Old Hermitage Church. 

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

U.S. News Insider Tip: While the blooms may fade in colder weather, the grounds are just as stunning when covered in mums and pumpkins each fall and draped in one million dazzling lights each holiday season. – Kellie Walton

Art aficionados and nature lovers alike should plan on making a stop at the Cheekwood Estate & Gardens. With its greenhouses, sculpture trail and chromatic flower display, the 55-acre Botanical Garden offers sanctuary from downtown's bustle. In fact, the garden comprises multiple distinct gardens, including one dedicated to boxwoods, another focused on dogwoods, a rose garden, a Japanese garden, an herb garden and one intended to inspire writing that features a small amphitheater for literary events. The on-site art museum is just as striking. Housed in the original Georgian-style Cheek family mansion, the museum boasts an impressive collection of 19th- and 20th-century American paintings as well as antique furniture, photographs, prints, sculpture and artifacts from around the world.

Fifth + Broadway Fifth + Broadway free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Prolific restaurateur Sam Fox debuted a multistory restaurant concept that connects to Fifth + Broadway. Keep your eyes peeled for a hidden door on the street level that leads to an underground margarita bar, Pushing Daisies. – Kellie Walton

Broadway is one of Nashville’s top destinations, made even more desirable through the addition of the city’s largest mixed-use development, Fifth + Broadway. From retail shops to restaurants and residential space, Fifth and Broadway offers a plethora of options adjacent to Music City’s famed honky-tonk bars. Stroll the outdoor plaza to shop at retailers like Apple, Tecovas, Free People, and locally-loved boutiques like REVV and The Nash Collection, then stop for a pick-me-up at Elixr Coffee Roasters or Jeni’s for a sweet treat. 

Nashville "Homes Of The Stars" Narrated Bus Tour with 30+ Celebrity Homes

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Radnor Lake State Park Radnor Lake State Park free

Though Nashville is a bustling metropolis, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors right on the outskirts of town. Located less than 15 miles south of downtown, Radnor Lake State Park is a calm and serene getaway for those looking to go for a walk and observe nature. The 1,368-acre park features a variety of plants and animals, including owls, waterfowl and herons. Plus, there are numerous jogging, hiking and biking trails in the park, many of which provide impressive lake views. If you're looking to learn more about local birds in the area, check out the Barbara J. Mapp Aviary Education Center for interactive displays, ranger-led programs and panoramic views of the surrounding hillside.

Parkgoers say they loved going on peaceful walks in this park and were astonished at the amount of wildlife they saw. Some people advise getting there early to get parking if you drive.

The Johnny Cash Museum The Johnny Cash Museum

Uncover the enigma behind "The Man in Black" with a visit to The Johnny Cash Museum. The museum boasts the world's largest collection of Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia, including items from the film "Walk the Line" (which is about Cash's life), handwritten notes and letters penned by Cash and costumes worn during his career. Exhibits spotlight different periods in Cash's life, including his years in the Air Force, his marriage to June Carter and his famous prison concert tour. And because the museum is officially endorsed by the Cash family, you can bet you'll stumble across other personal mementos not available to the public anywhere else, like a stone wall excavated from Johnny and June's Hendersonville house.

Fans love the wealth of information on display at this museum. Not much of a Cash devotee? Museumgoers say you should still make time to visit. Some warn, however, that it can get crowded. Others complain that admission fees were too high for the small museum.

Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery

U.S. News Insider Tip: The historic home tour is worth the trip, and be sure to allow time to visit the winery for a tasting. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Belle Meade, which sits 8 miles southwest of downtown Nashville, offers a look into the lives of Tennesseans throughout the 1800s. The Greek revival-style mansion was built in 1853 and 1854 and is centrally located on the historic site's 32 acres of manicured grounds. Guides offer tours of the mansion's interior. 

Nashville Bus Tours Nashville Bus Tours

Bus tours offer almost effortless means of taking in what Nashville has to offer, whether you simply want to see the city's top attractions or have specific interests, such as music, comedy, celebrities or a certain adult beverage. Here are some to consider:

Old Town Trolley Tours – Nashville Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour: Explore the sights and sounds of Nashville at your own pace on this hop-on hop-off excursion. Vehicles stop at 13 prime attractions, including the Country Music Hall of Fame , Ryman Auditorium , Belmont Mansion and Centennial Park . Tours feature live commentary. They occur daily between 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets cost about $55 for single-day tours. You may be able to score discounted tickets if you book online in advance. Riders say this tour offers a great way to learn about the city and praise its knowledgeable, entertaining guides.

Arrington Vineyards Arrington Vineyards

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you’re a fan of Arrington Vineyards, join Kix’s Wine Club to receive select bottles quarterly (with shipping available), and unlock discounts and special pricing for your next visit to the grounds. – Kellie Walton

Nestled in a south Nashville small town, Arrington Vineyards is a stunning winery co-owned by Kip Summers and country music star Kix Brooks (formerly of Brooks and Dunn). The rustic retreat boasts a primary farmhouse for wine tastings and multiple retail areas to grab a bottle or a flight of the brand’s signature wines, which range from red blends to white varietals and sparkling wine. Arrington Vineyards also offers a rotating seasonal frosé, which is especially refreshing during scorching Tennessee summers. 

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Grand Ole Opry Admission with Post-Show Backstage Tour

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Belmont Mansion Belmont Mansion

If you love history or art, make time for a tour of Belmont Mansion – the largest house museum in Nashville. This Italian-style villa was constructed in the 1850s for Adelicia Acklen, one of the wealthiest women in the country at the time and, according to some, Nashville's own Scarlett O'Hara. Although it was originally built to be a summer home, the mansion was quite stately and featured an art gallery, a bowling alley, a zoo and gardens. A tour of the approximately 20,000-square-foot mansion leads visitors through rooms ornately decorated with 19th-century antiques and lavish art.

Visitors praise the nicely preserved interior and knowledgeable docents stationed throughout the mansion. However, some visitors felt their guides did not spend enough time acknowledging the backbreaking work of the property's enslaved workers, who, along with European immigrant servants, built and maintained this opulent mansion. Unfortunately, many physical remnants of the enslaved people at Belmont Mansion were destroyed over the course of history, but you can still learn some information about some of the property's enslaved families on the Belmont Mansion website .  

The Parthenon The Parthenon

Nashville is a city of many nicknames and most of them have to do with music. Still, the city is also known as the "Athens of the South" thanks to the numerous higher education institutions established there. This identity is reinforced with the Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the one found in Athens . Although Nashville's Parthenon was only meant to be temporary – it was built for the Tennessee Centennial Exposition in 1897 – it has since become a beloved attraction, housing models of the statues found in the original structure as well as an impressive art collection. Travelers praise the well-kept grounds, peaceful atmosphere and magnificent building, recommending an evening visit to see it illuminated. Others rave about the fascinating exhibits and love the giant statue of Athena.

Located in Centennial Park about 2 miles west of Music Row , the Parthenon is open every day, though hours can vary by the week and the season. Check its website before you visit for current hours. Admission costs $10 for adults and $8 for seniors (older than 62) and children ages 4 to 17. However, you can tour the exterior of the building and its grounds for free.

John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Grab your camera (or phone) and walk this picturesque bridge, stopping midway for a fantastic selfie with the Nashville skyline. If it looks familiar, it's likely because many music videos have utilized the vantage point from this spot. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Formerly called the Shelby Street Pedestrian Bridge (and before that, the Sparkman Street Bridge), the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge – which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places – was built from 1907 through 1909. It was constructed to connect downtown Nashville to the suburbs of East Nashville. Designed by Howard M. Jones, the chief office engineer of the Nashville, Chattanooga, and St. Louis Railway, the bridge contains 48 spans, including four steel trusses and two reinforced concrete trusses. They're the only concrete trusses to be known of in Tennessee. In 1998, the city stopped allowing vehicles on the bridge due to its poor condition, and in 2003 it was restored and became a pedestrian-only walkway. There is also 15-foot-wide central bike lane in the middle of the bridge. Pedestrians can stop and relax at one of four overlooks along the bridge, which offer panoramic views of Nashville to the north and south. 

Music Row Music Row free

With record companies, recording studios, music publishers and related organizations as well as the Historic RCA Studio B , Music Row stands as the center of Nashville's storied music industry. In addition to the sites where musical history was made, this area southwest of downtown also has plenty of eateries and shops.

Music Row may not be as flashy or brassy as Broadway , but the area is a must-see destination for music lovers. Because the neighborhood is comparatively nondescript, many travelers recommend taking a guided tour to learn the history of the area. Several of the best tours in Nashville visit Music Row.

Tennessee State Museum Tennessee State Museum free

Located in downtown Nashville next to the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park and the Nashville Farmers' Market, the Tennessee State Museum preserves the unique and storied history of the Volunteer State. The large museum showcases permanent exhibits that display the heritage of Tennessee's natural history; Native American history; military and sporting history; and Civil War history. Plus, there are rotating temporary cultural and art exhibits on display as well. Several attractions at this museum specifically cater to children. The museum's Children's Gallery is specifically geared toward kids aged 3 to 8. In addition, the museum hosts many events and educational programs on-site throughout the year.

Museumgoers say the exhibits are well organized and highly informative. Many also appreciate the free admission.

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Nashville Zoo at Grassmere Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

If you're an animal lover or in the mood for a family outing, then the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is an excellent spot to visit. The zoo boasts more than 325 different animal species and more than 3,000 animals, including clouded leopards, monkeys, meerkats, red pandas, white rhinoceroses, alligators and anacondas. Plus, there are fish and bird exhibits showcasing both local wildlife and exotic creatures. There are a number of hands-on exhibits that are popular among kids, including the Critter Encounters (where you can get up close with various animals), Kangaroo Kickabout (where you can pet kangaroos) and Lorikeet Landing (where you can see Australian parrots and feed them for a small fee). What's more, the zoo also features a historic home and garden, a zip line, a 4D theater, an animal-themed carousel and a Wilderness Express Train.

Recent visitors were impressed with this zoo, with many reviewers complimenting the well-designed and well-kept facilities. Several families recommend this attraction when visiting Nashville with kids because of its various on-site activities.

Adventure Science Center Adventure Science Center

Take a break from history and country music and treat your kids to some hands-on educational entertainment. Interactive displays at the Adventure Science Center allow little ones to learn about science, from how beekeepers do their jobs to what goes on thousands of light-years above our heads. Kids can learn what it takes to become an astronaut and use an augmented reality mirror to get a peek at what their muscles and bones look like. Regular demonstrations and crafts further keep children engaged and shows in the planetarium are entertaining for the whole family. The facility also features a flight simulator. Museumgoers say this is a must for kids, as the facility has plenty of activities to keep children interested. They also laud the friendly staff. However, some say the exhibits could be better maintained.

Located almost 3 miles south of downtown Nashville, the Adventure Science Center is open Monday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with extended hours to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Adults pay $22; youths ages 2 to 12 enter for $18 and children younger than 2 get in for free. Admission to the planetarium and certain simulation activities costs extra. Free parking is available. For more information about the exhibits and upcoming events, visit the Adventure Science Center website .

Frist Art Museum Frist Art Museum

Located in a gorgeous 1930s art deco building that was once the city's main post office, the Frist Art Museum offers an ever-changing set of exhibitions, covering everything from paintings to sculptures to photography. Past exhibits have featured European armor, works of Albrecht Dürer and Picasso's renderings of the human form. Artwork by local artists and students are regularly in rotation as well. The museum runs programs, talks and activities to complement the exhibits. Families will want to make sure to visit the Martin ArtQuest Gallery, which offers interactive stations and creative hands-on learning. Recent visitors say even if you are not a big art lover, seeing the building alone is worth a visit. Multiple travelers were disappointed by how small the traveling exhibitions are. Many observe that staff members are friendly and knowledgeable.

Located downtown, the museum is just a few blocks from the Country Music Hall of Fame . The museum opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 5:30 p.m. Thursday through Monday except for Sunday, when it opens at 1 p.m., and Thursday, when it closes at 8 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for seniors and college students. Those 18 and younger can enter for free. Parking in the museum's lot costs $2 per hour. For more information, visit the museum's website .

Shelby Bottoms Nature Center & Greenway Shelby Bottoms Nature Center & Greenway free

Located on an expansive stretch of the Cumberland River about 5 miles east of downtown Nashville, the Shelby Bottoms Nature Center & Greenway is a sprawling green space where visitors can learn about the local landscape and take advantage of outdoor recreation opportunities. When you visit, start at the nature center, where you can view cultural history exhibits and artwork. You can also rent a bicycle from the on-site BCycle station to explore or participate in an environmental education program and learn about things to do on the greenway. The 950-acre Shelby Bottoms Greenway has about 17 miles of unpaved and paved pathways (perfect for strolling and biking) that pass through wetlands, streams, forests and fields.

Parkgoers say the atmosphere is relaxing and quiet; the trail system is easy to follow and clean. Many say cycling is quite fun here. Indeed, Shelby forms part of the 26-mile Music City Bikeway that connects Percy Priest Dam and the Warner Parks. Visitors also report glimpsing deer and other wildlife here.

Soundwaves at Gaylord Opryland Soundwaves at Gaylord Opryland

The Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center stresses that its SoundWaves is an "upscale" water park. The indoor/outdoor facility features a variety of water rides, including a total of 11 slides, and wave pools complemented by music. It also boasts waterfalls, lazy rivers, play structures and a surfing simulator, among other heart-pumping attractions. There is also a splash pad and activity pool for small children. Adults can enjoy two pools all to themselves (one indoor and one outdoor) plus a bar. Cabanas and private party rooms are available for rental. Soundwaves at Gaylord Opryland is also featured in a list of best bachelorette party destinations .

Parkgoers deem this water park exceptionally fun with a great deal to do for people of all ages. It's frequently described as clean and well attended by lifeguards. While the park is open exclusively to those staying in the resort, some say this helps keep it from becoming overcrowded.

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17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nashville, TN

Written by Bryan Dearsley , Colin J. McMechan and Catherine Hawkins Updated Mar 18, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Nashville is the capital of Tennessee and is centrally located in the state along the Cumberland River. One of Nashville's top attractions—a replica of the Parthenon—along with its many universities and colleges has earned it the nickname the "Athens of the South."

Nashville began building its reputation as the capital of country music around 100 years ago with the creation of the radio station dedicated to the Grand Ole Opry. The city is now home to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Music Row . One of the most popular music-themed walks is the Music City Walk of Fame located on Nashville's "Music Mile."

Keep walking to one of Nashville's greenway trails that includes spans over the Cumberland River: John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge and Cumberland River Pedestrian Bridge. Another popular attraction and wandering place is Bicentennial Capitol Mall. Grab a beverage and pastry from the adjacent Nashville Farmers' Market.

The city is a jumping-off point to explore the rest of Tennessee. Many historical attractions, including old plantations and Civil War sites, are no more than a half-hour drive away. Numerous hiking trails around Nashville offer a chance to get active.

Learn about the best places to visit with our list of attractions and things to do in Nashville.

See also: Where to Stay in Nashville

1. Grand Ole Opry

2. country music hall of fame & museum, 3. ryman auditorium, 4. make the scene in downtown nashville, 5. learn about the man in black at johnny cash museum, 6. belle meade historic site, 7. groove in glorious gardens at gaylord opryland resort, 8. andrew jackson's hermitage, 9. nashville parthenon, 10. rca studio b, 11. visit exotic friends at nashville zoo, 12. cheekwood estate and gardens, 13. make a recording at musicians hall of fame and museum, 14. belmont mansion, 15. tennessee state museum, 16. view vintage cars at lane motor museum, 17. cruise on the general jackson showboat, where to stay in nashville for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to nashville, best time of year to visit nashville.

The Grand Ole Opry radio show is the longest-running radio program in the United States . Since its first broadcast in 1925, the Opry has presented more than 5,000 shows. It continues to contribute to Nashville's identity as Music City.

In 1974, the venue for the show shifted from the Ryman Auditorium to the 4,000-seat Grand Ole Opry House northeast of downtown. Throughout its history, performers have entertained fans of country, bluegrass, gospel, and old-time music, along with popular music and comedy.

Join in the fun by attending one of the broadcasts. Purchase your Grand Ole Opry Show Admission Ticket in Nashville in advance to assure your seat and free parking in nearby Opry Mills Mall. Consider a scheduled backstage tour to experience the bright lights of show business from a different angle. The Grand Ole Opry House Guided Backstage Tour in Nashville is your VIP pass.

Address: 600 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville, Tennessee

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is located in the heart of downtown. The tall windows of this striking building cleverly resemble the keys of a piano.

The museum features a multimedia display of historical performances, costumes, instruments, gold records, and memorabilia. Other highlights include a Cadillac that belonged to Elvis, a massive 40-foot guitar, a tour bus, and a recording booth. Guided tours of the nearby historic RCA Studio B are also available.

Tour yourself through the museum and enhance the experience with the audio backup of stars such as Dolly Parton. Visit a replica of a tour bus to record your own country music song. And look for the gold record of your favorite bestselling country music album from the thousands on display along many walls.

Address: 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S., Nashville, Tennessee

The Ryman Auditorium , home of the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974, is still being used to host broadcasts of the famous radio show. Originally opened in 1892 as the Union Gospel Tabernacle, the Ryman offers superior acoustics for regular performances of classical and bluegrass music, musical theater, and television shows.

The Ryman is often referred to as the " Carnegie Hall of the South ." Located just off Honky Tonk Row, the auditorium features a museum with exhibits related to its rich musical past. Guided and self-guided tours are available. Try your hand at cutting a record of your own in the Air Castle Studio. Fun backstage tours are available but book ahead to avoid disappointment.

Address: 116 Rep. John Lewis Way N., Nashville, Tennessee

In the heart of every city are areas that have become a destination. Manhattan has Midtown, Miami has Little Havana, and Music City has Downtown Nashville.

Many of the go-to music attractions in the city are located in Downtown Nashville: Ryman Auditorium, Honky Tonk Row, museums honoring the best-known country music performers such as Johnny Cash and Patsy Cline, and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Broadway is the hub for nightlife in this neon-lit district, where live country music wafts out into the street.

While strolling through Downtown Nashville and experiencing its contemporary tourist attractions, you are following in the footsteps of the city's past. Evidence of the earliest settlers can be found along the shores of the Cumberland River at Fort Nashborough , which offers self-guided tours. The views in Downtown Nashville feature landmarks that you can see from the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge.

Johnny Cash, known as the "Man in Black," had a hardscrabble life that he surmounted to win the Grammy award 13 times (and earn an impressive 35 nominations!), becoming one of the most beloved stars of country music. Visit the museum in his honor in downtown Nashville.

Among the exhibits, the museum features handwritten lyrics for two of the most famous of the 1,500 songs Cash recorded: "Folsom Prison Blues" and "I Walk the Line." Johnny Cash's costumes, instruments, letters, artwork, marriage licenses, and songs are on display. There's also a museum store, where you can buy souvenirs, and a café next door, where you can buy whatever you need to fuel an extra hour of touring the museum.

Consider a trip upstairs to visit the Patsy Cline Museum . View videos, memorabilia, and personal items of this gifted country music star. Her career as a country music star tragically ended in a plane crash when she was only 30.

Address: 119 3rd Ave. S. Nashville, Tennessee

Constructed in the mid-19th century, the Belle Meade Mansion is designed in the Greek-Revival style and surrounded by what remains of the former antebellum plantation. During the two-day Civil War Battle of Nashville in 1864, Union and Confederate forces fought on the front yard of the mansion. Evidence of gunfire can still be seen in its tall stone columns.

Guided tours are available, including one that's devoted to telling the history of the estate from the perspective of the slaves forced to work and live here. Attend one of the culinary experiences and seasonal programs offered at Belle Meade. Explore the plantation stables, gardens, and grounds. If time allows, be sure to grab a bite to eat at the on-site Belle Meade Meat & Three restaurant (a popular spot for lunch), or an ice cream at the Coop N' Scoop, located in a 160-year-old chicken coop. Belle Meade Historic Site is nine miles from downtown.

Address: 110 Leake Ave., Nashville, Tennessee

You don't need to be staying at the Gaylord Opryland Resort to enjoy its most famous asset: its collection of 50,000 tropical plants, many of which are rare international specimens. This magnificent exhibition is a visual and olfactory feast, housed on nine acres of indoor space and tended by 20 full-time horticulturalists.

One-fifth of the collection is in the Garden Conservatory, which features palms and banana trees 60 feet tall. These plants were so tall, they had to be installed in the glass-topped atrium before its construction.

Florida was the source of more than 8,000 tropical ornamentals chosen for the Cascades Atrium. You'll find a 40-foot palm tree, and ginger bushes as tall as the average man.

Delta Atrium, the third large garden, ushers you into a zone of subtropical plants that you can explore in a delta flatboat. Pass beneath the Wishing Banyan tree and make a wish. Admire exotics such as black olive trees and mahoganies dripping with Spanish moss, more than 100 palm trees, banana trees, gardenias, and camellias. Marvel at the entrance to the Delta Mansion, glorified by two 40-foot Southern magnolias.

Address: 2800 Opryland Drive, Nashville, Tennessee

The Hermitage was the home of America's seventh president, Andrew Jackson . The estate is one of the most picturesque spots in Nashville. Located 14 miles from downtown, the Hermitage was originally constructed in 1819 and rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1834.

Visitors to the Hermitage experience the place as it would have looked when Jackson lived here from 1837 to 1845. The mansion includes a museum with exhibits of Jackson's private and public lives.

Participate in a formal guided tour of the property. Other fun activities include draft horse-powered wagon rides and themed events such as ghost tours. The grounds are well-maintained and include the burial site of Jackson and his wife. Visit the nearby Tulip Grove mansion, the one-time home of family members Emily and Andrew Jackson Donelson.

Address: 4580 Rachel's Ln., Hermitage, Tennessee

If you're looking for one of the best free things to do in Nasvhille , see the iconic landmark of Nashville , a reproduction of the Parthenon in Athens. Located in Centennial Park and a short walk west of the city center, the original Parthenon replica was built of wood, plaster, and brick in 1897 to commemorate the state's first century. The current full-scale replica of the original Greek temple is made of concrete.

Inside the Parthenon is a permanent art collection of 63 works by 19th- and 20th-century American painters. Admire the 42-foot-high model of the statue of the goddess Athena Parthenos covered with gold leaf. Replicas of the famed 5 th century BCE Parthenon Marbles are also on display.

Address: 2500 West End Ave, Nashville, Tennessee

RCA Studio B is near Music Square in the area known as Music Row . This is the heart and soul of the nation's music industry, and RCA Studio B is its most protected historic landmark. The "home of 1,000 hits" thrived for about 15 years starting in 1957.

This recording facility is credited as the birthplace of the unique "Nashville sound" that defined so many big hits of the 1950s and 1960s. While the site closed as a recording studio in 1977, it has become a teaching facility. Visitors come on scheduled tours arranged by RCA Studio B's owner, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

Address: 1611 Roy Acuff Place, Nashville, Tennessee

The Nashville Zoo is a great place for tourists to visit with children. Explore the plains of Africa, delve into the rainforests of South America, and discover the many animals of Asia. More than 3,000 animals from 350 species can be viewed, including clouded leopards, Baird's tapirs, toucans, and Sumatran tigers. Animals at Nashville Zoo reside in habitats that represent their natural environments.

Lorikeet Landing allows you to enter an aviary and be surrounded by around 85 Australian parrots. Come to the zoo to ride the Wild Animal Carousel and Wilderness Express Train. Kids naturally know what to do on the zoo's large Jungle Gym, where they slide, swing, climb, crawl, and explore. The Soaring Eagle Zip Line takes your visit to the zoo to new heights.

Address: 3777 Nolensville Pike, Nashville, Tennessee

Cheekwood Estate and Gardens is a sumptuous 55-acre haven of peace and grace. This elegant park-like setting is a tranquil place to visit on a sunny day. Galleries of contemporary art in the historic mansion exemplify the Cheekwood's commitment to the arts and arts preservation.

After your tour of the mansion and the Cheekwood's indoor collection, step onto the Sculpture Trail to experience creatively landscaped installations, including "The Glass Bridge for Nashville." Marvel at the diversity of garden designs and influences and range of trees and shrubs, especially when flowering in season.

This historic attraction also hosts regular music performances, including an "under the stars" concert series in the summertime.

Address: 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville, Tennessee

Not to be confused with the Country Music Hall of Fame is the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum , which honors the musical heroes who helped to create the stars . These talented session artists hail from Nashville, Motown, Muscle Shoals, New York, Los Angeles, and recording studios.

Along with their instruments, these are the fellows that made the hits happen. That's why there's so much emphasis at this 30,000-square-foot museum on the presentation of studios, stages, and guitars.

View the studio where Elvis recorded hits such as In the Ghetto . Behold the stage where young Jimi Hendrix performed, as well as one of his guitars. See guitars played by Glen Campbell, who was a session musician before he became a star. Other instruments on display were played by Johnny Cash, Garth Brooks, and Elton John.

If you're into the process that creates superstars of all musical stripes, you can happily learn and experiment at this interactive museum. Here you can try things out–from mixing music and trying out instruments to making your own recording.

Address: 401 Gay Street, Nashville, Tennessee

Built in the 1850s, the Belmont Mansion is the largest antebellum house in Tennessee. It is considered one of the finest mansions of its kind in the United States. Many rooms have been preserved with much of their original décor and furnishings. Designed in the style of an Italian villa, the mansion features elaborate gardens with outbuildings. Belmont also has permanent art exhibits.

Entering Belmont Mansion, the historic splendor of the building is enhanced by furniture, paintings, and original statues by American artists. Following a guided introduction, you are free to explore the mansion on your own.

During the holidays, one of the top things to do at Belmont is attending its Christmas Tour. You'll get to see the mansion dressed up in Victorian decorations and learn about 19th-century holiday traditions.

Address: Belmont Blvd. & Acklen Ave., Nashville, Tennessee

Learn more about the rich history of Tennessee's social and natural history at the Tennessee State Museum . Located adjacent to Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, this spacious state-of-the-art museum covers an area of 137,000 square feet that efficiently accommodates the large collection of original items, interactive exhibits, and multimedia displays.

The museum's diverse collections are considered the "Smithsonian of Tennessee" and filled with artifacts relating to the state's role in the Civil War, including period weapons and furniture. There's also a vast collection of artworks and paintings, in addition to displays related to music and musicians. Notable features that bring the state's past to life include a theater, an education and learning center, and on-site gift shop.

Address: 1000 Rosa L Parks Blvd, Nashville, Tennessee

Lane Motor Museum showcases a large collection of vehicles, most of which are from Europe, but also includes exhibits from Japan and the United States. The collection includes the tiniest French-made minicar, with room for only one person and requiring no driver's license. Among vintage cars, there are streamlined Adler coupes dating back to the 1930s. The motorcycle collection includes a 1964 folding scooter.

The museum is not just a space for displaying vehicles. It's a showplace for vehicles that have been restored, as closely as possible, to their original condition. The museum also put its engineering expertise into creating a replica of one of the most unusual cars ever made–a 1933 Dymaxion. The brainchild of Buckminster Fuller, designer of the geodesic dome, this streamlined vehicle is so unusual, it looks like it could power an extra-terrestrial. Only three prototypes were ever produced.

The museum displays about 150 vehicles from its collection of more than 580. To view some of the other cars, consider hopping on one of the guided vault tours on the weekends.

Address: 702 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville, Tennessee

The General Jackson Showboat is the modern version of the 1800s classic four-deck paddle-wheel steamship. This showboat is a great way to get your country music fix while cruising on the Cumberland River.

If you're looking for fun things to do in Nashville at night, this pleasant outing offers a unique view of the cityscape from the water. A highlight is passing under the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge.

Simplify your planning by booking the General Jackson Showboat Lunch or Dinner Cruise in Nashville . Everything is included: Southern cooking during a lunch or dinner cruise, onboard entertainment, and unsurpassed views of Nashville and the Cumberland River.

Address: 2812 Opryland Drive, Nashville, Tennessee

Downtown Nashville beats with a country heart, and this is where first-time visitors will want to stay. This area is home to music venues, the historic 2nd Ave, the Tennessee Performing Arts Center, the world-famous Ryman Auditorium, and Printer's Alley. At the southern end of downtown, sports fans will find Bridgestone Arena. Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• Nashville's The Hermitage Hotel , housed in a Beaux Arts building dating from 1908, is right by the State Capitol and offers an experience in grandeur from the turn of the century.
• Opened in late 2022, the Four Seasons is one of Nashville's newest five-star properties. Its large suites are outfitted with music-inspired touches, like lamps that resemble recording studio microphones. It offers packages that immerse tourists in Nashville's music scene.
• Next door to the Bridgestone Arena and steps to Ryman Auditorium, the recently renovated all-suite Hilton Nashville Downtown offers large rooms, and may be a good option for families.
• Fully integrated with the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Omni Nashville Hotel is well located just a short stroll from the hip and lively Broadway Avenue.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Mid-range hotels tend to be clustered near Vanderbilt University, an easy drive two miles southwest of downtown on Broadway Avenue. This is a nice area, with lots of parks and The Parthenon historical site, a full replica of the original Greek Athenian Temple. Great for families, the Homewood Suites Nashville Vanderbilt offers full kitchens. This hotel has an indoor pool.
• Another all-suite option is the Home2 Suites by Hilton , located in the same area and offering similar amenities.
• The Hilton Garden Inn Nashville/Vanderbilt has standard rooms, a fitness center, and an indoor pool.

Budget Hotels :

• The fully-renovated Red Roof PLUS+ Nashville Airport offers decent rooms and a shuttle to/from the airport. A convenient base for the budget-minded is the area near the airport. It's a straight shot down Interstate 40, seven miles from the attractions downtown
• A few miles farther out, and featuring an outdoor pool, is the Sleep Inn .
• Just across the street is La Quinta Inn & Suites Nashville Airport , with basic rooms and an outdoor pool at a fair price. Surrounding both hotels is a good selection of chain restaurants.

City Sightseeing :

• Depending on your schedule, you can choose between a morning or afternoon departure for the half-day Discover Nashville tour, which packs in all the city's top attractions in a 3.5-hour tour. Music Row, Riverfront Park, and the Tennessee State Capitol are included on the itinerary, and the cost includes admission to Ryman Auditorium and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
• If you prefer to do things at your own pace, opt for a Nashville Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour . This handy option allows you to stop wherever you choose, and spend as long as you like exploring favorite attractions including Music Row, the Parthenon at Centennial Park, and Vanderbilt University, all accompanied by a guide's informative commentary.
• When you're on a tight schedule or just want to get your bearings at the start of your visit to Music City, opt for the one-hour Best of Nashville City Tour on a Double Decker Bus . This tour will zip you by 100 of the top landmarks and attractions, and offers live commentary by your driver.

Helicopter Tour :

• Fly above the skyscrapers and crowds on Honky Tonk Row while scanning the city like an eagle in the Helicopter Tour of Downtown Nashville . During the 15-minute ride, you learn about Music City from your pilot while experiencing Nashville in your own whirlybird.

The spring and fall are the best times of the year to visit Nashville , when the weather is pleasant and the temperatures are comfortable. You will also encounter slightly fewer tourists on either side of the booming summer season, which can be a relief for those who want to avoid crowds.

Fewer tourists also means more availability for tickets to high-demand places like the Grand Ole Opry , and easier access to other music venues. Hotel rates will be slightly lower in the spring and fall than they are in the summer when prices are inflated.

During the spring and fall, weather is nice enough to go to the many outdoor concerts around the city and enjoy patio dining at local restaurants. Spring is the start of fun free outdoor events , like Musicians Corner with live music at Centennial Park, and outdoor concert dates continue into the fall.

If you cannot decide between spring and fall, it is best to scout out the Nashville festival scene and pick dates based on what strikes your interest.

While summer has some exciting events in Nashville like the CMA-festival, if you are not going for a specific reason during this window of time then it is best not to. Summers in Nashville are sweltering. In contrast, the spring and fall temperatures average in the 70s.

Even in the more comfortable months there can be occasional unpredictable storms and high humidity, so it's a good idea to pack for a range of weather conditions.

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Popular Nashville Day Trips : When you're done exploring Nashville, be sure to spend at least a little time exploring the surrounding area. Top-rated day trips within an easy drive include a visit to the Carter House and Carnton Plantation, as well as the Historic Sam Davis Home and Plantation, both of which became famous as battlegrounds during the Civil War.

Another great destination with a rich musical history, Memphis is perhaps most famous as the home of Elvis Presley's Graceland. Memphis is also famous for its fun Beale Street Entertainment District, as well as the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum.

The Great Outdoors : For a fun back-to-nature experience, head to the Smoky Mountains , home to the country's most visited national park. Popular outdoor activities include hiking, biking, camping and white water rafting. And if fishing's your thing, Tennessee is famous for its superlative fly fishing , boasting an impressive 22,000 miles of streams and some 29 reservoirs in which to cast a line.

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The 20 best attractions and sights in nashville.

Whether you’ve lived here for years, just moved to town, or are visiting for the weekend, there’s no excuse for being bored in Music City. From must-see museums to iconic music venues, consider this your Nashville bucket list.

Nashville Zoo

Kids of all ages can enjoy a field trip to the Nashville Zoo , which has grown leaps and bounds since taking over the Grassmere property in 1996. Interactive exhibits like Critter Encounters and Lorikeet Landing as well as exhibits dedicated to flamingos, and meerkats keep local animal lovers intrigued.

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Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

Perhaps the most gorgeous 55 acres in the greater Nashville area, Cheekwood is a hit with locals and visitors year-round. From the Cheekwood Mansion art gallery to the estate’s 12 sprawling gardens to special exhibits from world-renowned artists, you could spend hours taking in all kinds of stunning visuals. Cheekwood also has a variety of seasonal installations including Cheekwood in Bloom , Cheekwood Harvest , and Holiday Lights at Cheekwood .

Frist Art Museum

With exhibits that rotate every six to eight weeks, no visit to the Frist Art Museum is ever the same—but you’re always guaranteed to leave inspired. Housed in an art deco building, Nashville’s hub for visual art displays works from local, state, and regional artists as well as national and international exhibitions.

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The Hermitage

The home of Andrew Jackson, located on the outskirts of town, is one of the most popular attractions in the state. Open as a museum since 1889, The Hermitage sits on more than 1,000 acres and comprises the seventh U.S. president’s stately mansion, its surrounding gardens and grounds, and the Jackson family tomb. The million-dollar exhibit, Andrew Jackson: Born for a Storm , features interactive displays and a deep dive into his multifaceted life.

GEODIS Park

GEODIS Park , situated in the heart of Wedgewood-Houston, is home to the Nashville Soccer Club. This 30,000-seat stadium is the largest soccer-specific stadium in the United States and Canada. Looking to catch a match? See the Nashville SC’s home game schedule here .

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Fifth + Broadway

Fifth + Broadway is a mixed-use development conveniently located on Broadway in Downtown Nashville. The building combines restaurants, shops, office space, a museum, and residential units. Restaurants include local favorites like Slim + Husky’s and Hattie B’s as well as nationally-known eateries like Shake Shack and Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. On the retail side, visitors can purchase Nashville-centric apparel at The Nash Collection or shop at one of the only brick-and-mortar Ariat stores in the world. Explore the 55,000-square-foot National Museum of African American Music or stay indefinitely at The Place.

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Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum

It’s known as “the Smithsonian of country music” for good reason, The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum spans 350,000 square feet of prime Downtown Nashville real estate, which it packs with thousands of artifacts, two performance theaters, and countless rotating special exhibitions. The museum’s permanent installation, Sing Me Back Home , takes visitors through the evolution of country music from its roots in the nineteenth century to today’s biggest hitmakers.

Bluebird Cafe

The world-famous and incredibly intimate Bluebird Cafe is where you go to hear your favorite songs—and their backstories—straight from the people who wrote them. (Yes, just like on TV.) Nearly every night, this tiny cafe hosts a group of songwriters who play and banter their way through acoustic rounds, captivating those who got lucky enough to score a seat.

Grand Ole Opry

An essential Nashville music experience is a trip to the historic Grand Ole Opry —it’s the only place where country music stars of past, present, and future have shared the same stage. Spring for the backstage tour, where you can see the Opry’s 18-themed dressing rooms, learn behind-the-scenes secrets, and, if you’re lucky, step foot in “The Circle” yourself.

John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge , completed in 1909, is a steel-trussed bridge that connects East Nashville with the hustle and bustle of Downtown Nashville. Runners, commuters, and sightseers alike can be found crisscrossing this skyline landmark at all hours of the day, often pausing to admire the picturesque Cumberland views.

Ryman Auditorium

Your first show at the prestigious Mother Church—famed for its acoustics and pew seating—will be a turning point in your concert-going experience. Formerly the home of the Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman now shines on its own as a hallowed performance hall for all genres of musicians as well as comedians and authors. Self-guided tours are available daily, tickets are $27+ for adults and $18+ for children (4-11).

Broadway Honky-Tonks

Though they might complain about it, even locals have a hard time staying away from Nashville’s glittering main strip—it’s that much of a good time. Lined with perennial honky-tonks like Robert’s Western World and Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge , Lower Broadway has seen a revitalization with trendier establishments like Acme Feed and Seed and Miranda Lambert’s Casa Rosa .

Radnor Lake State Park

Offering 1,300 acres of serene forests, trails, and wildlife, the Radnor Lake area is a literal breath of fresh air for cooped-up Nashvillians. And this natural treasure offers even more than just exercise and a break from daily stressors—The Barbara J. Mapp Aviary Education Center can turn your visit into a full-on learning experience.

Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery

Stop at Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery for a part history lesson and part good old-fashioned whiskey tasting. Brothers Andy and Charlie Nelson revived their great-great-great-grandfather’s family business in 2009. The tour guides here will take you back to the start over a century ago and its subsequent shutting down during Prohibition—cheers to the Nelsons’ happy ending!

The Parthenon

The Parthenon , originally constructed as a temporary exhibit for Tennessee’s 1897 Centennial Exposition, is a full-scale replica of the iconic Athens structure that became so popular it is now a permanent Nashville fixture. Updates over the years have included the creation of the surrounding Centennial Park, a complete overhaul of the structure’s exterior, and the installation of a 42-foot-tall Athena statue. When you visit, don’t miss the fine art museum on the lower level.

Goo Goo Shop and Dessert Bar

The Goo Goo Cluster isn’t just your ordinary sweet treat—it’s the world’s first-ever “combination candy,” a swirl of caramel, marshmallow nougat, peanuts, and chocolate. Fittingly, the Goo Goo Shop and Dessert Bar’s headquarters isn’t just a shop—it’s a decadent destination, featuring Goo Goo’s rich history, a dessert and coffee bar, and a clear view of the confectionary kitchen’s skilled candy makers.

“I Believe in Nashville” Murals

You won’t find a more “Nashville” photo-op than the “I Believe in Nashville” murals . Music City native Adrien Saporiti has created two of them across town, one each in 12 South and Marathon Village —both neighborhoods are a must-visit!

Johnny Cash Museum

Whether you’re a casual listener or a die-hard fan of the Man in Black, it’s hard not to be emotionally moved as you walk through the Johnny Cash Museum . From his humble beginnings in Arkansas to his groundbreaking Folsom Prison performance to his love affair with June Carter, this is a fully-encompassing journey of Cash and his legacy.

First Horizon Park

First Horizon Park , is home to The Nashville Sounds, a Minor League Baseball team of the International League. This massive ballpark situated in Germantown, boasts an unrivaled view of the field, a guitar-shaped scoreboard, and limitless concessions. The stadium also hosts occasional concerts, events, and festivals.

Soundwaves + Gaylord Opryland

SoundWaves , the upscale indoor-outdoor water attraction at  Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center , offers over four acres of entertainment, including 11 slides, a wave pool, FlowRider wave simulator, rapid and lazy rivers, an activity pool, a restaurant, adults-only pool and bar, private cabanas, and kids areas. This attraction is open year-round.

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7 Comments on "The 20 Best Attractions and Sights in Nashville"

looking forward to visiting

I need to see my beautiful city! Summer 2001 here we come!!!!!

Hello, thank you for the information. I would like to suggest one more place to enjoy night life in Nashville and it is called as Legend’s Corner.

Free 1910 year old car factory museum showing how they made car in the early 1900s

I will be visiting Nashville soon, so excited can’t wait!!!

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Nashville

By Margaret Littman

Music City is a quirky place: It's a big place with a small-town feel—a little bit country, a little bit rock and roll, if you will. That makes for an all-encompassing list of things to do in Nashville. The music scene here obviously draws both travelers and aspiring song writers alike, and Honky Tonk Row beckons with ‘round the clock live shows and cheap beer in plastic cups. But don’t forget to venture off of Broadway—way off Broadway. Look around and you'll find a burgeoning art community, eclectic indie boutiques, and a food scene that has grown immensely from its local Southern roots and into one of America's most exciting dining destinations. Tick as many of these places as you can off your list if you want to feel the real heart and soul of this city: These are the best things to do in Nashville on your next visit.

Click the link to read our complete Nashville city guide .

Hatch Show Print Arrow

Part of the Country Music Hall of Fame, Hatch Show Print has been churning out show posters for some of Nashville’s biggest venues and most celebrated artists for more than 140 years. The shop still prints more than 500 posters per year, but visitors can also snatch up a token of Nashville history in the form of replica vintage posters like the one founder William Hatch made for the Grand Ole Opry in 1941. It's not just a place to pick up souvenirs, though. Temporary exhibitions and displays of archival posters are in rotation, and real letterpress geeks can sign up for tours and workshops. Ultimately, the crowd is pretty touristy, but there are plenty of locals who have a piece of Hatch history in their homes.

National Museum of African American Music Arrow

NMAAM covers the whole of the Black music experience. The collection, which includes audio and video files, costumes, posters, instruments, photographs and more, is organized by genre and chronology. The material is designed to be interactive, and visitors can see where musicians got their influences and then who influenced them. The museum goes in-depth, covering both well-known performers and those whose names are otherwise lost to history. The entire collection is permanent, but because so much of it is how you interact with it—do you try to record your own song, listen to different artists—it never feels like the same place twice. And as the cornerstone of the mammoth Fifth + Broadway complex (a destination in and of itself with restaurants, live music venues, and shops), it still never feels crowded thanks to timed ticketing. 

Arnold's Country Kitchen Arrow

Yes, Arnold's Country Kitchen is essentially a glorified cafeteria—albeit, one with a James Beard Classic award ( one of two in the city ). Expansions have somewhat shortened the long lines, but because everyone in town, from musicians to politicians to tourists, eats here, expect to wait for the Southern-style "meat ‘n’ three." For decades, Arnold's was only open for weekday lunch, but it now has dinner hours (the popular Arnold’s After Dark), weekend hours, and even a new bar. Whether you're a born-and-bred Tennessean or a Southern-food novice, the meat ‘n’ three is a rite of passage.

Frist Art Museum Arrow

Nashville had a dearth of art museums, but the Frist—which opened in 2001 in a stately Art Deco building that was once the city's main post office—helped fill that void. The art museum has no permanent collection, so you never know what will be on view—and that's why locals love it. The exhibits run the gamut, from vintage automobiles to Japanese art to relics from the Houghton Hall country estate in England . Each one is thoughtfully laid out in a well-illuminated gallery space and there's also a free music show, Music at the Frist, about once a month.

Jessica Puckett

Harrison Pierce

Kristi Kellogg

Madison Flager

RCA Studio B Arrow

Everyone from Elvis Presley to Roy Orbison and Carrie Underwood have laid down tracks at this historic recording studio, now a museum operated by the Country Music Hall of Fame. The only way to visit Studio B is on a guided tour, hosted hourly from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. It's a tourist hotspot though, so don't be surprised to see some Elvis diehards who drove over from Graceland in Memphis. It's a whirlwind glimpse of Nashville's music scene , and you'll be sure to leave feeling that Music City magic.

The Station Inn Arrow

The Station Inn isn't just Nashville's best bluegrass club; rather, it's the country's best. If you want to hear fast pickin', down-home excitement every night, played by many of the genre’s best musicians, high-tail it here. The drinks are cheap, and the cinder-block building might not gleam like its high-rise neighbors, but everything about the Station Inn is true-blue Music City. You never know who will show up for the Sunday Bluegrass jam, but you do know it’ll be a night to remember. Come and explore the Nashville music scene beyond the honky tonks.

Civil Rights Room at the Nashville Public Library Arrow

Tucked away on the second floor of the main downtown public library, the Civil Rights Room honors Nashville's role in a seminal period of American history. The collection here includes photographs of school desegregation, sit-ins, and marches. A circular table is symbolic of the lunch counters where  college students sat, peacefully protested, and demanded change. The table is engraved with the 10 rules of conduct set out for sit-in participants. The centerpiece of the room is a glass inscription by Martin Luther King, Jr., who visited the city in 1960. Across the hall, you’ll find the  Votes for Women room, a similar tribute to Tennessee’s role in the passage of the 19 th amendment. Browse hear to see propaganda, posters and photos from the divisive time in America’s history a century ago. 

Robert’s Western World Arrow

Lower Broadway is lined with honky tonks, all-day and all-night watering holes, and dance halls that make Nashville Music City. While some have expanded into bachelorette -pleasing cover bands and rock sing-a-longs, Robert’s Western World has remained a legit place to hear Western swing from the best musicians in the city. Come here to kick up your heels, drink PBR, eat a fried bologna sandwich, and have a good time. It’s perfectly acceptable to wander from stage to stage (Layla’s Honky Tonk, the only woman-owned bar on Lower Broad, is another good choice.) As is the case at all honky tonks, don't forget to tip—both your server and the band.

Jefferson Street Sound Museum Arrow

A small house-turned-museum on one of Nashville’s most historic streets, the Jefferson Street Sound Museum sort of looks and feels like you're in someone’s house with their chock-full music collection… because it sort of is. Lorenzo Washington took over the former home and converted two stories into a museum with exhibits based largely around his own collection of artifacts. This museum is oft-overlooked by visitors to Nashville, perhaps because it's small and it is only open one day a week (otherwise, you can come by appointment). But just walking in the front door makes you feel like an insider privy to the secrets of Jefferson Street’s musical legacy.  Much of the signage is handwritten, and going through with Washington as guide is really the only way to understand what’s what. Items on display include many, many autographed photos, instruments, costumes, sheet music, and playbills. The emphasis is on Nashville’s Black music scene from 1940 to 1970, from Jimi Hendrix to Marion James.

Backstage Nashville at 3rd & Lindsley Arrow

Like many time-loved Nashville venues, 3rd & Lindsley is nondescript. From the outside it looks like the DMV, and inside it's basic square tables and ladder-back chairs. All the lighting and sound mechanics are unhidden, but it has good sound and a stage visible from almost any spot on both floors of the bar—and that’s what matters here. If you want to understand Nashville's music, Backstage Nashville's focus on the singer-songwriter is the place to do it.  The weekly event takes place from 12:30 p.m.–2:30 p.m. on Saturdays. Kids of all ages are welcome, and it's the perfect place to expose them to Nashville music without all the age inappropriateness of Lower Broad.

Lane Motor Museum Arrow

This is not your normal museum . The idea behind the private Lane Motor Museum is to display vehicles from Europe, Asia, and North and South America from the 1920s to present day. Every vehicle is in working order and there are more than 150 cars, motorcycles, even some amphibious vehicles. Even if you've been before, you might want to return. The collection rotates; you can see something today that wasn’t shown last week. Labels explain each car's significance, and visitors can peer into the garages where the museum's ongoing restoration efforts take place. 

Carl Van Vechten Gallery Arrow

The Van Vechten Gallery at Fisk University, the historically Black university on the city’s north side, has a world-class collection of art that once belonged to photographer and art promoter Alfred Stieglitz. Stieglitz’s wife, Georgia O’Keeffe, donated a portion of this collection to Fisk on his death. Fisk and the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas, now take turns exhibiting the collection in its entirety, with it moving back and forth every two years. It is amazing to think about the foresight Stieglitz had when he compiled this collection, with works by Pablo Picasso, Paul Cézanne, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Diego Rivera, Arthur Dove, Gino Severini, and Charles Demuth. When the collection is at Crystal Bridges, though, it's still worth visiting the Van Vechten to see exhibits like its impressive Harlem Renaissance collection.

Grand Ole Opry Arrow

Chances are, you've heard of The Grand Ole Opry, and with good reason. The historic live broadcast changed locations a few times and moved to its current location—and first dedicated space—at the Opry House in 1974, after more than 30 years as a resident of the Ryman Auditorium . Famously, it has no bad seats, balcony, or floor. The biggest names in country music headline and even make surprise appearances here regularly, but it's still open to fresh up-and-coming talent. To get the full depth and breadth of the Opry experience, book one of the backstage tours before you see a show. They’re chockful of facts and artifacts.

Plaza Mariachi Music City Arrow

Every day is different at Plaza Mariachi, a buzzing gathering place that had a former life as a Kroger grocery store. It's a bit different than some of Nashville's music venues . Mariachi bands and DJ shows are a sure bet, often accompanied by silk dancers. But you may also catch salsa dancing classes, mariachis playing Rocky Top, big-name Latinx stars, guitarists, kids’ shows, and more. The shows are always hopping, so you don't need to seek a specific one. Just come because you have some free time and you're looking for good energy and live music.

Silver Sands Cafe Arrow

Even more than hot chicken, Nashville is known for the meat-and-three–a cafeteria-style diner where you order one meat and three sides. And for more than 70 years Silver Sands has been a Nashville meat-and-three soul food institution. It is nothin’ fancy inside or out, and that utilitarian time-loved ambiance fits the place. The food, made daily by Sophia Vaughn, changes based on the day of the week; meatloaf on Wednesdays and barbecue chicken on Thursdays, for example, and each day includes several lunch options. At breakfast, biscuit sandwiches are built to order, as are pancakes, bacon and other classics. While the word is out among visitors who travel for good food, the majority of customers lining up for breakfast and lunch are locals. The wait can be long, but the vibe is convivial and you'll get to know your neighbors. Nothing here is fancily plated or garnished—it's just classic, delicious eats.

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15 essential Nashville experiences

Apr 14, 2023 • 7 min read

Nashville’s skyline is home to a number of spectacular rooftop bars delivering 360-degree views of the city © Nina Dietzel / Getty Images

Nashville may be best known as the home of country music, but this dynamic city contains multitudes – you can catch up-and-coming talent on intimate stages, eat at some of the South’s best restaurants or hike through gorgeous wetlands bursting with wildlife. 

Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Nashville .

1. Make a pilgrimage to the Mother Church of Country Music

The Ryman Auditorium is Nashville’s premier music venue – this historic stage was the original home of the Grand Ole' Opry and where superstars like Dolly Parton, Hank Williams and Johnny Cash jump-started their careers. Today it continues to welcome an impressive roster of country royalty, indie artists and internationally renowned speakers to its hallowed halls.

2. Discover Nashville rock ‘n’ roll at Basement East

Nashville may be known for its country scene, but Music City rocks hard. If you’re more into electric guitars than banjos, head to the Basement East . This local venue survived an encounter with a 2020 tornado and continues to churn out high-energy shows ranging from national touring acts to local cover bands. And if you’re lucky, one of Nashville’s rock elite just may make a surprise guest appearance.

3. Explore the artsy neighborhood of Wedgewood-Houston

This former industrial area is experiencing a major boom, but luckily it’s managed to hold on to some of the quirkiness that originally made it a haven for Nashville’s local art scene.

Edgy galleries like Zeitgeist and the Packing Plant commingle with unique bars – Diskin Cider ,  Flamingo Cocktail Club and Never Never , to name a few – and a growing number of delicious restaurants. Stop by on the first Saturday of every month for the neighborhood’s buzzy art crawl . 

Detour: Just because Nashville loves its down-home cooking doesn’t mean it doesn’t appreciate inventive high-end food, and the kitchen at Bastion delivers one of the best chef-curated tasting menus in the city.

4. Catch an MLS game at the new Geodis Park

Nashville’s newly minted Major League Soccer team has shown that this southern city embraces all versions of football. Locals show up en masse to cheer on the Coyotes at the sparkling new Geodis Park ; come decked out in team colors and revel in a spirited night of soccer alongside a raucous crowd. 

5. Learn about music history at the National Museum of African American Music

Black music has been – and continues to be – the driving force behind the American music scene at large, and this expertly curated museum takes you through the history of these contributions, from jazz and blues to today’s rock and hip-hop scenes. Expect a hands-on approach – you can record yourself singing with a gospel choir, compose your own blues ballad or even participate in a virtual dance battle.

6. Go for a float on the Harpeth River

Nashville is a river city crisscrossed by large water thoroughfares and a circulatory system of smaller rivers and creeks. You can find some relief from the southern heat by paddling your way down the Harpeth River, an easygoing waterway perfect for lazy floats in the sun. If you’ve got your own boat, you can access the river at several different locations in and around Harpeth River State Park ; if you need to rent a vessel, try booking with Foggy Bottom Canoe or Canoe Music City .

Planning tip: Always check the forecast for the day before your outing – heavy rains can make the water levels rise to dangerous levels. Follow Foggy Bottom or Canoe Music City on social media for updates on weather-related closures.

7. Listen to the next big thing at the Bluebird’s famous songwriter rounds

Even before the show Nashville made it a household name, the Bluebird Cafe has been a legendary locale for singer-songwriter rounds featuring the best of the best – Garth Brooks, Taylor Swift and Keith Urban all graced this stage before they hit it big. It’s all about the listening experience at this bar-restaurant, which puts audiences up close with both rising and established talent. 

Planning tip: The Bluebird’s storied status makes it a hot ticket – always book ahead.

8. Take a hike at one of Nashville’s green spaces 

Nashville may be an urban metropolis, but it’s also a place that values its green spaces . Head to Percy and Edwin Warner Parks to clock some miles on trails that feel far more remote than you’d think, or walk the extensive greenway at Shelby Bottoms , alongside East Nashville families. If you’re a wildlife fan, don’t skip Radnor Lake State Park , a striking nature reserve home to critters like barred owls, bald eagles, beavers, turtles and wild turkeys. 

Planning tip: Outdoor Nashville is so much fun to explore, but be careful during the hot months of July and August – temperatures and humidity levels soar and can be dangerous . Always bring water with you.

9. Learn to salsa dance at Plaza Mariachi

Managed by the Hispanic Family Foundation, this cultural center /music venue/food hall hosts everything from mariachi concerts to ballet folkórico performances to thumping DJ sets, but our favorite is the Bailamos party. Come early to learn salsa, bachata and merengue, and then test out your new skills on the dance floor the rest of the night.

Detour: Nashville is home to the country’s largest Kurdish community, and just across the street from Plaza Mariachi you’ll find  Edessa Restaurant  serving Kurdish and Turkish cuisine. Order the kabob festival for an indulgent culinary journey you won’t soon forget. 

10. Admire exhibitions at Nashville’s art deco treasure, the Frist Art Museum

At the center of Nashville’s thriving art scene sits the Frist Art Museum , a stunning space featuring rotating art exhibitions that range from exuberant contemporary installations to mid-century Italian concept cars to illustrated medieval textbooks. Housed in an art deco–era post office, this museum also hosts art workshops, live music events, lectures series and more.

11. Support local at Honeytree Meadery

Local businesses are Nashville’s beating heart, and the network of friendly folks working at and with Honeytree Meadery exemplify the camaraderie that can be found among business owners here. Their perfectly balanced mead is made with honey from East Nashville beekeepers; a favorite is the Flower Garden, a floral take on the old classic made with tea from local herbal experts High Garden , who lost their building across the street during the 2020 tornado.

If you’re hungry, snag a delectable creation from Alebrije truck parked out front, specializing in Mexico-City-style tacos made with heirloom corn tortillas.  

12. Test your taste buds at Prince’s Hot Chicken

Nashville hot chicken is an institution, and it all started with Prince’s , the city’s original hot-chicken shop. Still run by the great-niece of the founder, Prince’s brings the heat. Go easy with mild spice or give it all you’ve got with XXX hot – either way, you’ll be indulging in a quintessentially Nashville experience.

13. Join a dance party at the Blue Room

Part of Third Man Records' headquarters – owned by Nashville’s most eccentric frontman, Jack White of the White Stripes and the Raconteurs – the Blue Room is a surreal art space/bar that hosts poetry readings, theater performances, film screenings and curated dance parties. It also features a cool “infinity wall,” a giant (fake) elephant head and a lush outdoor space, making an atmospheric setting for a night out.

Detour: Just around the corner from Third Man and the Blue Room is Tennessee Brew Works , one of the few local breweries that has truly nailed the art of having both excellent beer and excellent food. Open mics and live music also hit the small stage throughout the week – we love Bluegrass Wednesdays.

14. Watch the sunset from a downtown rooftop

Nashville’s ever-growing skyline is home to a number of spectacular rooftop bars delivering 360-degree views of Music City, each one with its own distinct personality. Channel your inner rockstar at the Bobby Hotel rooftop lounge, check out the latest themed pop-up at the Fairlane or swim in the infinity pool of the L27 Rooftop Lounge .

Detour: Nashville has bars in the sky – and bars down below. Seek out the Noelle’s Hidden Bar for a magical treat.

15. Tour the famous RCA Studio B

Now a branch of the Country Music Hall of Fame , RCA Studio B is a must-see for anyone interested in Nashville’s music history – you can tour the birthplace of what became known as the Nashville Sound, a particular recording style that highlighted background vocals and string instruments. Industry titans like Dolly Parton and Elvis Presley recorded some of their biggest hits here. 

This article was first published June 2021 and updated April 2023

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The best Nashville attractions

Understand locals' devotion to music, civil rights, sports and Southern food when seeing the best Nashville attractions

When most people think of Nashville, the first words that come to mind are Music City. 

True, this city is one of the best places in the world to enjoy live music and revel in its history. However, it has also become a thriving hub of many other types of culture from cuisine (you’ll want to keep our list of the city’s best restaurants handy and make sure to try some Nashville hot chicken ) to art (don’t miss the Carl Van Vechten Gallery at Frisk.)

If you’re partial to activities, events and things to do , consider kicking off your tour of the city at the famous Country Music Hall of Fame or the Grand Ole Opry. Both sites offer essential looks at America’s proud country music heritage.

Home to more than 20 colleges and universities, the Tennessee town is also drenched in a rich tradition of academia, as evidenced by the many libraries and cultural institutions you’ll see at every corner. 

Sport fans will be amazed by the loudest fans in the NHL (for real), who even throw catfish on the ice when possible (true story) at Bridgestone Arena. 

Basically, everyone will find something to adore in Nashville. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Nashville

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Nashville attractions

1.  Madame Tussauds

A wax museum themed around music and its stars – Taylor Swift, Billie Holiday, Bob Dylan and country stars galore are preserved for the ages in wax.  While there are Tussauds wax museums all over the world, this is the only one focused on music. And it isn't just a museum as you actually get to interact with the figures: sing with them on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry or record an album in the studio.

2.  Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

The starting point for all things country music, this interactive museum will appeal to fans of all music genres. Even a quick walk-through will illuminate how all music derives from Nashville’s favorite tunes.  The multi-story building (designed to look like piano keys) is rammed to the rhinestone rafters with show-stopping musical memorabilia, such as Elvis Presley’s 24-karat gold Cadillac and Johnny Cash's Martin D-355. You’ll end your perusal in the Hall of Fame Rotunda, where you can honor the greats. Pay extra for the add-on Studio B tour: it’s the best way to experience a piece of sonic history on Music Row.

3.  Parthenon

Built in 1897 as a celebration of the state’s Centennial, this is a replica of Greece’s Parthenon (complete with gold Athena sculpture) and perhaps Nashville’s most iconic landmark. It is a nod to the town’s reputation as the Athens of the South, a city that truly champions education.  In addition to the great photo op, a visit here is a history lesson of sorts. Check out the lovely galleries inside as well as the 42-foot statue of the goddess Athena by local sculptor Alan LeQuire. The interior, accessible after paying an admission fee, is only open during the day, but the exterior can be visited from dawn to 11pm and, take note, is breathtakingly lit at night.

4.  Fort Negley Visitors Center and Park

Fort Negley was built largely by slaves and used to defend the city during attacks.  Named an UNESCO Slave Route Destination, this is an important site for understanding both the African American experience and Nashville’s development. The walking trails offer great views, with pretty wildflowers in season and a lovely, easy hike in the city.  Because it is on a hill, it also affords some of the best views of Nashville. Plus, the entire experience is free.

5.  Civil Rights Room at the Nashville Public Library

A freestanding exhibit on the second floor of the main public library illustrates Nashville’s essential role in the U.S. Civil Rights movement and history of desegregation. The powerful photographs, videos and displays teach about the sit-ins and other protests that changed the face of America. Afterwards, walk over to  Woolworth on 5th, the restored five-and-dime lunch-counter that was the site of 1960s sit-in demonstrations and is now a restaurant serving Southern specialties.

6.  Ryman Auditorium

Built in 1892 by Capt. Thomas Ryman, the then-Union Gospel Tabernacle is now one of the premiere live music venues in the country.  Amazing acoustics and a revered history—it was home to the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974—make for a near-sacred experience for musicians who play here. In addition to seeing a show, visitors should take a backstage tour for the chance to step on the hallowed stage.

7.  Grand Ole Opry

The weekly music stage concert has been around since 1925, hosting a roster of performers playing gospel, country, bluegrass and more.  The Opry performs at least two times a week, Fridays and Saturdays, with additional shows on Tuesday nights most weeks. During the majority of the year, it is held at the Opry House in Music Valley (backstage tours are available) but between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, the shindig returns to its historic home at the Ryman Auditorium. 

8.  Plaza Mariachi

To call Plaza Mariachi a strip mall is like calling the Grand Ole Opry a stage. This mega Mexican marketplace includes a number of restaurants, a bar, a live music stage, a grocery store, a soccer jersey shop and much more.  Visit at night to take free dance lessons or opt for a daytime adventure complete with live music, silks performers hanging from the ceiling and delicious food. The atmosphere may inspire thoughts of cruise ships—lots of flashing lights and faux scenic backdrops—but it is fun and festive, and a lot less expensive than a cruise. Come hungry, as you’ll want to sample the elote, tacos, baked goods and other treats from the various vendors that set up shop here.

9.  Carl Van Vechten Gallery

An intimate gallery on the campus of  Fisk University , it's  named after the art collector who convinced artist Georgia O’Keeffe to donate a large portion of the work and personal collection of her late husband Alfred Stieglitz to the school.  This is a world-class American art collection, now shared with Fisk and Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Arkansas. It includes works by Stieglitz and O’Keeffe, as well as acclaimed European and American art­ists including Pablo Picasso, Paul Cézanne, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Diego Rivera, Arthur Dove, Gino Severini and Charles Demuth. The rest of the beautiful, historic Fisk campus is also worth exploring, particularly the Aaron Douglas murals in Cravath Hall.

10.  Tennessee State Museum

This   137,000-square-foot building houses a wide array of interactive exhibits about the Volunteer State.  The museum’s location near  Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park and the  Nashville Farmers' Market makes it an ideal place to wander around. Expect exhibits about pioneers, settlers, musicians and more. Don’t miss the jawbone of a mastodon that called Tennessee home some 10,000 years ago or the brightly colored children’s area designed by local illustrator Lucie Rice. Bonus points: it’s free.

11.  Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge

A beautiful yet asymmetrical arched bridge that marks the end of the 444-mile National Park historic road, Natchez Trace Parkwaywinds its way from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville.  The Northern Terminus of this route boasts a breathtaking arched bridge that affords views of beautiful scenery. Take in some lovely hikes and waterfalls but remember that bicycles get right-of-way here—which means that if you prefer to travel on two wheels, you’ll have plenty of company.

12.  Lane Motor Museum

Located in an old, renovated Sunbeam Bakery, this museum is home to the largest collec­tion of European cars and motorcycles anywhere in the country. The autos on exhibition rotate, so you have an excuse to come back again and again.  You’ll find all manner of cars, from early hybrids and steam engines to one that’s so small it can be “reversed” by picking it up with a lever and putting it down facing the other direction. The amphibious cars are crowd pleasers, too.

13.  House of Cards

Nashville's answer to Los Angeles’ Magic Castle (a club for magicians), this space is hidden in the basement below the Johnny Cash Museum. Expect a restaurant, bar and performance space that will entice all your senses.  The price of dinner includes the magic shows, which aren't at all hokey. The space is 21-and-up, so we're not talking kids' birthday party-type stuff. There's a dress code (jacket, dress shoes, no tank tops or flip flops, please) and no photography is allowed, so you get to focus on the experience. Don’t miss the ghost playing the piano and the amazing collection of magic memorabilia.

14.  Frist Art Museum

An art museum located in an old post office near downtown, Frist Art Museum houses an impressive collection of rotating exhibits.  If you are traveling with kids, check out the Martin ArtQuest gallery, an excel­lent hands-on arts activity area with, among other things, a sound station that allows visitors to manipulate frequencies to create patterns with sand on metal plates.

15.  Johnny Cash Museum and Patsy Cline Museum

A duo of small but very important museums honoring two of country music’s greats, with support from the musicians’ families. The Johnny Cash Museum and the Patsy Cline Museum are in the same building, the former on the first floor and the latter upstairs, so it is fairly easy to visit them both in a single afternoon. The  two museums highlight their professional accomplishments as well as their personal lives. Look through letters to their loved ones, wedding albums and other memorabilia and listen to their legendary music.

16.  Bridgestone Arena

With a seating capacity of 20,000, Bridgestone Arena hosts concerts, the CMA Music Fest and other televised shows. It is also home to the Nashville Predators, the local hockey team.  In addition to being a music venue, Bridgestone is home to a  Visitors Center and the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame. But if you are in town during hockey season, grab a Preds ticket, so you can hear the loudest cheers in the sport, live country music at each break between periods, and see fans throw catfish on the ice. True story.

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30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Nashville (Tennessee)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: October 11, 2019  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Known for its energy and vibrancy, Nashville is one of the most famous music destinations in the world.

It’s actually nicknamed “Music City” because of its significance to the biz.

Its streets are filled with bars, clubs, concert halls, music studios and more recording stations than you can shake a microphone at.

There are other sides to Nashville, however.

It’s located on the river, so it has gorgeous natural landscapes filled with forests and ravines.

It was the birthplace of several notable figures, so there’s history to be learned from its landmarks and memorials.

A well-rounded vacation will take advantage of all of the attractions that the city has to offer.

If you’re looking for the most awesome things to do in Nashville, Tennessee, here are just a few suggestions for your bucket list!

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a booking through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

1. Grand Ole Opry

jejim / Shutterstock

Grab your stetson. Pull on your spurs. It’s time to visit the Grand Ole Opry .

Hailed as “the show that made country music famous,” the Grand Ole Opry has been running for almost a century.

It offers all of the latest and greatest in country, folk, gospel and bluegrass music, and it’s easily one of the best things to do in Nashville.

Catching a show is almost like a rite of passage in the South!

Visitors to the Grand Ole Opry can take a tour of the stage and dressing rooms before settling in for the night’s entertainment.

In addition to toe-tapping music, they also broadcast skits, comedy routines and other live performances.

When the curtain falls, you can grab a bite to eat at the Opry Back Porch BBQ or catch some ZZZs at the Opryland Hotel.

You’re sure to have a grand ole time at the Grand Ole Opry.

Swing by the famous red-barn stage if you’re looking for the very best in Nashville attractions!

Check details, prices and reviews here.

Address:  2804 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214, United States

2. Broadway

f11photo / Shutterstock

Broadway is the beating heart of downtown Nashville.

Covering several neon-lit blocks, it’s a neighborhood where there are bars, clubs, restaurants, shops, saloons and honky-tonks as far as the eye can see.

During the day, Broadway serves as one of the more typical tourist attractions of Nashville.

Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining and sightseeing as they hop on old-fashioned trams and trolleys and explore the streets.

At night, Broadway transforms into something else entirely.

Live music spills out of dozens of bars and pubs.

Rooftop bars glitter with everything from lights to swimming pools.

You can find places to eat, drink, dance, sing karaoke, ride a mechanical bull or try on a jumpsuit covered in rhinestones.

Broadway is at the center of all of the action, so it’s easily one of the best things to do in downtown Nashville.

Grab your dancing shoes and get there tonight! You won’t want to miss a thing!

3. Parthenon

Before it became known for country music, Nashville used to have a reputation for higher learning.

It offered the largest number of colleges and universities in Tennessee and was sometimes referred to as “the Athens of the South.”

In 1897, builders decided to run with that nickname and raise a full-scale replica of the Parthenon right in the middle of Nashville.

Today, the Parthenon functions as an art museum and cultural center.

It hosts a number of paintings, texts, statues and sculptures from the classical era.

It’s one of the major points of interest in Nashville, especially for patrons of the arts; you can often find theater troupes performing Greek plays on the front steps.

The Parthenon is definitely one of the top things to do in Nashville, Tennessee.

It’s such a unique attraction that it deserves a visit even if you aren’t the type to wear a toga and philosophize about the stars.

How often do you get the chance to visit a Parthenon?

Experience it while you can!

Address:  2500 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

4. Cumberland Park

4kclips / Shutterstock

Nashville has beautiful views of the Cumberland River, a 700-mile waterway that winds through Tennessee and Kentucky .

One of the best places to travel and see it is Cumberland Park .

Officially called a “riverfront play space,” Cumberland Park is basically a stomping ground for families who want to have fun both in and out of the water.

Its biggest attraction is a gigantic splash pad where you can cool off on hot summer days, but there are also bike paths, climbing structures and butterfly gardens.

There’s even an amphitheater for outdoor concerts that are held in Nashville.

If you want to gaze at the Cumberland River during a romantic date, that’s an option, too.

The park sits right on the riverfront; you can even take a stroll down the famous pedestrian bridge that stretches across the water.

One thing is for sure: Cumberland Park should be on your list of awesome things to see in Nashville.

Whether you’re honeymooning or just looking for ways to entertain the kids, it’s a great destination for a Tennessee vacation.

Address:  592 S 1st St, Nashville, TN 37213, United States

Planning to visit other parts of Tennessee? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Chattanooga and things to do in Pigeon Forge !

5. Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center

Joe Hendrickson / Shutterstock

You’ve never seen a hotel like the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center .

Not only does it offer luxury suites in the most hopping, bopping parts of downtown Nashville, but it’s also home to activities and amenities that make it a vacation destination in its own right.

For starters, the resort is filled with pools, plants, gardens, fountains and waterfalls in a glass atrium.

Boat tours are available if you want to drift along the water and enjoy all nine acres of the indoor jungle.

There’s also a spa, gym, golf course and several different ballrooms for banquets and other special events.

More than a dozen bars and restaurants line the corridors if you work up an appetite.

Long story short, the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center isn’t your usual hotel in Nashville, Tennessee.

It’s more like an adventure that you can take during any time of the day or night.

If you’re looking for amazing things to do in Nashville this weekend, book a room at Opryland.

It’s the best of the best in terms of accommodation!

Address:  2800 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214, United States

6. Music Row

BrandonKleinVideo / Shutterstock

Music Row is the single most famous street in Nashville.

Packed with record labels, radio stations, recording studios and music production companies, it offers a top to bottom look at the thriving music scene of the city.

What can you do at Music Row? It depends on your interests.

Lots of tours are available for recording booths and radio towers, and there are several local landmarks for sightseeing, including the statue of a famous producer in front of a grand piano.

It can also be fun to play “spot the star” with street names: Many avenues are named after country singers.

If you’re willing to venture a little outside of the neighborhood, Music Row is centrally located enough that many stores and restaurants are within walking distance.

You can eat, drink and shop while visiting the best parts of the area.

Music Row is one of the most iconic places to go in Nashville, Tennessee, so consider it a must see when you’re visiting the city.

Even if you only have time to snap a few selfies on the boulevard, it’s a destination that you’ll want to check out at least once.

Address: 16th/17th Ave. South – Division Street and Music Square, Nashville, TN, USA

7. Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory

Larry Darling / flickr

It’s easy to spot the large white dome of the Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory .

It’s one of the biggest astronomy centers in Tennessee, and it stands on top of a large hill that provides clear, unobstructed views of the night sky.

Tours and telescopes are open to the public if you want to learn a few constellations while you’re in Nashville.

The observatory also hosts all kinds of special events like summer camps and eclipse parties.

They even open the grounds for outdoor concerts; you can bring snacks and a blanket to lay on the grass while you enjoy the music.

And when the performers have taken their final bow, the observatory staff will bring out the telescopes and let you cap off your evening with a look at the moon.

The Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory is one of the most fun things to do in Nashville, Tennessee.

You might be drawn in by the dome; you might be irresistibly tugged by the music.

Either way, you’ll have a great time under the stars.

Address:  1000 Oman Dr, Brentwood, TN 37027, United States

8. Nashville Zoo

Grace Cureton / Shutterstock

The Nashville Zoo is one of the most unique attractions in Tennessee.

Located about 6 miles south of downtown Nashville, the zoo we know today was a standard farm home in the 1800’s on a land that was later donated to the city by the Croft family.

The standard home, that paved way for the country’s 9th largest zoo, still stands on the property and available for tours.

There are approximately 3,000 animals in total, that represent about 350 different species.

Some animals are even available for feeding and taking pictures with!

There are also zoo-sponsored camps and classes if you’re looking for fun stuff for your kids to do on the weekend.

For example, “Night Owls” is an overnight sleepaway adventure, and “Zoo Tots” has games and lessons for tiny zookeepers.

Consider a trip to the Nashville Zoo if you’re looking for the best attractions to put on a to do list.

With everything from a rich history to a delightful menagerie of animals, it’s one of the top places to visit in Nashville for sure.

Address:  3777 Nolensville Pike, Nashville, TN 37211, United States

Visiting other parts of Tennessee? You’ll love our lists of things to do in Gatlinburg and things to do in Memphis !

9. Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and Museum

Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame

Many award-winning athletes have come out of Tennessee, including Daren Bates, Reggie Grimes and Jalen Reeves-Maybin.

The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and Museum celebrates them all, and it’s conveniently located in downtown Nashville.

Browse the displays and exhibits that showcase the history of the state’s finest sportsmen.

Let your kids dress up in jerseys, helmets and pads for photo ops.

There are even a few rides that will keep your little ones entertained while you read up on all of the Olympic champs that have come from the Volunteer State.

The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and Museum isn’t a large museum, but it’s a significant one.

You won’t find another destination like it in the Nashville area.

You should definitely bookmark it in your “what to see” tab when planning your Nashville vacation.

Address:  501 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

10. Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge

Kevin Oliver / flickr

You can’t miss Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge .

It has a bright purple building located in downtown Nashville, and at night, the line stretches down the entire street.

Everyone wants to toss back a drink at the oldest honky-tonk bar in Tennessee!

Tootsie’s has a long, colorful history in the country music scene.

Patsy Cline and Waylon Jennings were among its most famous customers.

Willie Nelson got his first gig after performing on its live stage.

It’s even been featured in a documentary called Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge: Where the Music Began.

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is still thriving today.

It’s a place to see and be seen in Nashville, especially for up-and-coming musicians, and there’s always a lively crowd ready to buy another round.

Stop by Tootise’s when you want fun things to see and do in Nashville, Tennessee.

You never know when the next act will be the hottest thing in country music in a few years!

Address:  422 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

11. Warner Parks

Joseph Guerre / Shutterstock

Nashville is such a busy metropolitan area that it can be easy to forget about its green places.

Fortunately, the Warner Parks are here to remind you of the beauty and majesty of Nashville’s natural landscapes.

The Warner Parks are actually twin parks, Edwin Warner Park and Percy Warner Park, that span thousands of acres in the wilderness near Nashville.

Their beautiful lush hills are filled with everything from nature trails to picnic areas.

You can walk, tour, hike, bike or even go horseback riding among the sights.

If you like working up a sweat, check out the playgrounds, golf courses, tennis courts and mountain bike trails.

If you prefer more low-key activities, stroll to the top of an observation point and see for miles as the leaves fall and the sun sets.

There are a lot of outdoor activities to enjoy here, so if you’re a nature buff wondering what to do in Nashville, Tennessee, consider a trip to the Warner Parks.

They’re some of the most beautiful places in USA , and even though they’re free, you’ll enjoy a “two for the price of one” feeling when you hop between them.

Address:  50 Vaughn Rd, Nashville, TN 37221, United States

12. Hatch Show Print

Gerry Matthews / Shutterstock

Hatch Show Print is another one of those uniquely Nashville destinations.

While other cities might have similar establishments, this one is firmly rooted in the one-of-a-kind color, charm and kitsch of Music City.

What is Hatch Show Print?

It’s a letterpress print shop that has been making posters for local musicians since the turn of the century.

Some of its earliest works have become famous for advertising young stars that grew into legendary figures; these posters are now priceless collector’s items.

Visitors to Hatch Show Print can tour the facilities and see how the old-fashioned printing machines work.

They’re still functional, and for a fee, they can print your own customized posters to take home.

Everything is done in the distinct and signature style of Hatch Show Print.

If you’re looking for the coolest things to see in Nashville, this is the site for you.

It’s almost like the birthplace of country music advertising.

It’s a little slice of history in the city, and it’s yours for the exploring.

Address:  224 5th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

13. Tennessee State Prison

Phillip Foster / Shutterstock

You’ve seen the Tennessee State Prison even if you’ve never been there before.

Looking like a medieval castle with its spiked towers and chamber windows, it’s been featured in countless movies, including The Green Mile, Against the Wall and Ernest Goes to Jail.

In its heyday, inmates at the Tennessee State Prison were subjected to harsh manual labor and long periods of solitary confinement.

They were even forced to wear striped uniforms like they really were in the movies.

Today, the Tennessee State Prison is an abandoned facility.

You aren’t allowed to go inside, but you can drive up to the fence and take pictures, or you can sign up for marathons and ghost tours that are given permission to operate on the grounds.

It’s an especially eerie place at night.

If you’re looking for unusual Nashville attractions, try a medieval castle prison that’s a favorite of Hollywood directors.

Stop by the Tennessee State Prison for a hair-raising time!

Address: 6404 Centennial Blvd, Nashville, TN 37209, USA

Planning a road trip around Tennessee? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Tennessee !

14. Hermitage

Zack Frank / Shutterstock

The Hermitage is one of the most important sights in the U.S. when it comes to the history and heritage of the American South.

As the home of former president Andrew Jackson, it’s a stunning example of grandiose, plantation-style architecture, and it’s been carefully preserved as a testament to the way that wealthy Nashville residents used to live.

It’s also an uncomfortable look at how the slave trade was normalized in the South in the 1800s.

Andrew Jackson owned dozens of slaves, and they were housed in log cabins behind the estate.

The dual nature of the Hermitage is why it’s considered one of the best tourist spots in Nashville.

It’s beautiful and culturally significant, but at the same time, it doesn’t let you forget about its dark past.

Consider a visit to the Hermitage if you’re wondering where to go during your trip to Nashville, Tennessee.

The best history lessons are ones that show you both sides of the story.

Address:  4580 Rachels Ln, Hermitage, TN 37076, United States

15. Radnor Lake

laura_rambles_on / Shutterstock

Radnor Lake is another one of those breathtaking places that you can only find in Tennessee.

With sparkling waters that lap sandy shores and jagged rocks, it’s actually considered a Class II Natural Area because of its beautiful, rugged scenery that’s protected from commercial development.

Activities at Radnor Lake are mostly centered around sightseeing.

Wildlife is abundant, so if you like observing animals in their natural habitats, you’ll be in for a treat.

Turtles waddle in the dirt; red-tailed hawks soar in the sky; deer can always be seen darting through the trees.

Swimming in the lake is prohibited because of its protected status, but you can arrange for special, supervised canoe trips in the springtime.

You’ll just need advanced permission, so if you’re wondering how to plan a trip to Radnor Lake, calling the visitor’s center should be your first step.

Grab your binoculars and head out to Radnor Lake so that you can experience one of the best sites in Nashville.

The views alone will be worth the trip!

Address: 1160 Otter Creek Rd, Nashville, TN 37220, USA

Planning on a road trip around Tennessee? Why not check out some of the things to do in Knoxville, TN  & some of the top Johnson City attractions ?

16. Adventure Science Center of Nashville

Kirill Kulakov / Shutterstock

If you’re traveling to Nashville with kids, you won’t want to miss the Adventure Science Center .

It’s an interactive, hands-on museum where learning is done without tests and textbooks.

Instead, children are encouraged to let their imaginations run wild with things like painting classes, building stations and excavation exercises!

Many different topics are covered at the museum, and many different activities are available for kids of all ages and interests.

Do they like animals?

Maybe they can learn how to harvest honey from a real beehive.

Are they addicted to tech gadgets?

Let them watch a laser show or put on a virtual reality helmet.

Adults can have fun at the Adventure Science Center as well.

The planetarium hosts “yoga classes under the stars” on the weekends, and there are workshops on the science of beer or the creation of famous movie monsters.

If you’re looking for lively places to visit around Nashville this weekend, consider the Adventure Science Center.

The whole family can have a good time, and if you play your cards right, your kids might even learn something new.

Address:  800 Fort Negley Blvd, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

17. Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary

Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary

Despite the name, there are a lot more than just owls at Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary .

It’s a protected area for many species of Tennessee wildlife, including birds, reptiles, amphibians and small mammals.

If you want to go exploring, tours are available through the crunchy leaves of its nature trails.

If you like more structured activities, you can sign up for a basket-weaving class or a sunny picnic in the grass.

If you’re interested in special events in Nashville, you can swing by during a seed sale or a “movie in a meadow” feature.

All proceeds go towards conservation.

The sanctuary is a nonprofit with a good reputation, and its goal is to rehabilitate animals, repopulate plants and reignite the public passion for the environment and everything living within it.

If you love animals but hate seeing them in overcrowded, underfunded places, your heart can rest easy at Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary in Nashville.

Not only does it offer some of the best views that you’ll ever see of Tennessee flora and fauna, but your ticket sale will go towards a good cause.

Address:  545 Beech Creek Rd S, Brentwood, TN 37027, United States

18. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

If you’re a fan of country music, you won’t want to miss the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum .

It boasts one of the largest musical collections on the planet, so not only is it a worldwide marvel, but it’s also a distinctive hallmark of Nashville, Tennessee.

There’s a lot of fun stuff to do at the museum.

You can take in photos, plaques, musical instruments and memorabilia.

You can watch archived footage of famous performances and interviews.

You can take in a biographical film reel or explore interactive displays and exhibits on country music.

There are also some famous sites at the museum, including the historic RCA Studio B.

Everyone from Dolly Parton to Elvis Presley has recorded there, and you can take a tour of the studio like you’re the next artist in line.

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum if you’re putting together a list of vacation ideas for Nashville.

It offers such a fun and interesting experience that it should be at the top of the page!

Address:  222 5th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

19. Bootleggers Inn

Bootleggers Inn

Tucked away near several other buildings in downtown Nashville, Bootleggers Inn is a quiet, dimly-lit bar that might not catch your eye right off the bat.

It isn’t painted purple or flashing with neon lights.

You might need to circle the block before you even find it.

Once you’re inside, however, Bootleggers Inn will offer an extremely atmospheric vibe that befits Nashville’s underground music scene.

Its wooden tables soak in low lighting from vintage chandeliers.

Its crowd is very casual, and its live music comes in the form of guitar strummers and indie crooners.

Another nice thing about Bootleggers Inn is that it’s one of the only places in Nashville that sells moonshine, so if you’ve always wanted to try the real deal from a Southern speakeasy, this is the place to do it.

Nashville is no stranger to bars and clubs, but if you’re looking for something in the top 10 of fun, boozy establishments around the city, stop by Bootleggers Inn.

It’s a must do when you’re in downtown Nashville.

Address:  207 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201, United States

20. Honeysuckle Hill Farm

Honeysuckle Hill Farm

Located a few miles north of Nashville, Honeysuckle Hill Farm is one of the best places to visit when you’re looking for clean, family-oriented entertainment.

People of all ages and genders can find something fun to do!

Toddlers can shriek with laughter when they take a hayride or feed an animal at the petting zoo.

Kids will enjoy running around the fun house, getting lost in the corn maze or picking out pumpkins for arts and crafts.

Adults will appreciate sweet but healthy refreshments like candied fruits and ciders.

If you’re contemplating what to do during a vacation to Nashville, Tennessee, consider Honeysuckle Hill Farm.

It’s one of our top vacation ideas for families, especially in the fall.

There’s nothing like bobbing for apples to put you in an autumn mood!

Address:  1765 Martins Chapel Church Rd, Springfield, TN 37172, United States

Doing a road trip around Tennessee? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Franklin ?

21. Nashville Shores

Nashville Shores

Laugh in the face of danger when you visit Nashville Shores .

Offering a waterpark and a treetop adventure course, it’ll provide hours of fun whether you’re soaring on top of the world or diving deep into underwater pools.

The waterpark uses more than one million gallons of water in slides, rivers, wave pools and splash pads.

The treetop adventure course offers everything from ziplines to rope ladders and cargo nets that stretch between canopies.

Something to note about Nashville Shores is that it isn’t open year-round.

If you’re headed to Tennessee during the off-season for tourist attractions, make sure to book your tickets for this weekend!

All things considered, however, Nashville Shores is a wonderful destination for family-friendly fun.

Whether you’re a fan of water slides or ziplines, it’s one of the best places to visit near the city of Nashville.

Pull some goggles over your eyes and have a blast!

Address:  4001 Bell Rd, Hermitage, TN 37076, United States

22. Sri Ganesha Temple

HiFi123 / flickr

You might not expect to see a Hindu temple in a place like Nashville, but the Sri Ganesha Temple is proof that multiculturalism is alive and well in the city.

With a beautiful temple that showcases everything from botanical gardens to bejeweled elephant statues, the Sri Ganesha Temple will dazzle you as soon as you walk through its doors.

Things only get more impressive on the inside; drums pound, disciples pray and homemade charms wave in the wind.

Visitors are encouraged to wander the grounds and learn more about the Hindu way of life.

A canteen will feed you if you’re hungry, and tour guides can explain the meanings of various shrines and statues.

If you go on a weekend, you might be able to sign up for a dance class or a dinner event.

The Sri Ganesha Temple is one of the best things to do in Nashville.

It’s a fascinating place that can teach a lot to open-minded visitors, and it’s worth a trip just to experience real Hindu culture in the heart of Tennessee.

Call and find out if they have anything fun planned for this weekend!

Address:  527 Old Hickory Blvd, Nashville, TN 37209, United States

23. Johnny Cash Museum and Cafe

Konstantin L / Shutterstock

You can’t talk about country music without talking about Johnny Cash.

He’s an absolute legend in the industry, and if you don’t believe that fact before you walk into the Johnny Cash Museum and Cafe , you’ll believe it afterwards.

Photos, records and artifacts tell his story.

Listening stations have samples of his most famous songs and demos.

Priceless guitars are protected in glass cases underneath wall-to-wall posters.

When you’re done with the displays, a live band covers Johnny Cash songs in a cafe near the museum.

Souvenirs are available at the gift shop, including the chance to “take a picture with Johnny.”

You don’t have to be a fan to appreciate what the Man in Black has done for the music industry.

Even if you’re just looking for fun things to do in Nashville, you’ll want to make some time for the Johnny Cash Museum and Cafe.

Address:  119 3rd Ave S, Nashville, TN 37201, United States

24. Printer’s Alley

Bo Arrington / Shutterstock

Originally the home of newspaper stands and publishing companies, Printer’s Alley has transformed itself into a busy area for Nashville’s nightlife.

No one is quite sure how it happened, but it might’ve had something to do with the dark, gritty atmosphere of the alley or the way that many local restaurants smuggled in liquor during the Prohibition era.

Today, however, Printer’s Alley is home to all kinds of bars, clubs and burlesque joints.

Their lights glitter through the darkness and beckon people to come and visit.

No cars are allowed in the alley, so there’s always a crowd.

Printer’s Alley isn’t for everyone.

For example, you’ll want to leave the kids at the hotel before you venture into the thick smoke clouds that hover over the red bricks and flashing signs.

If you’re looking for jazzy places to see, however, Printer’s Alley is definitely near the top of the list of Nashville attractions!

Address: Between 3rd Ave N & 4th Ave N, An alley from Union St to Commerce St, Nashville, TN 37201, USA

25. Schermerhorn Symphony Center

Brian Wilson Photography / Shutterstock

A little-known fact about Nashville is that it celebrates all genres of music.

It isn’t limited to country and bluegrass.

This is why classical fans flock to the Schermerhorn Symphony Center .

Towering above downtown Nashville with white columns and ornate clerestory windows, the Schermerhorn Symphony Center is a pillar to the community.

It’s most famous for its violin concertos and string orchestras, but it also welcomes other types of performers.

It isn’t uncommon for the venue to host jazz shows, ventriloquists, drum lines, mariachi bands or Disney musicals.

Between its size and versatility, the Schermerhorn Symphony Center is one of the best things to do in Nashville.

It doesn’t matter if you’re seeking a black-tie opera event or a fun night on the town with the kids.

The Schermerhorn Symphony Center can do it all.

Address:  1 Symphony Pl, Nashville, TN 37201, United States

26. Long Hunter State Park

KennStilger47 / Shutterstock

There are many parks and wilderness areas in Tennessee, but only some pay homage to the Native Americans that worked the land before the Europeans.

Long Hunter State Park is one of them.

Home to the annual NAIA Education Pow Wow, the park is known for the mounds and relics of its original Native American inhabitants, and the pow wow brings together thousands of people each year to celebrate that fact.

You can find all kinds of lectures, workshops, demonstrations and souvenirs when you visit.

Another nice thing about Long Hunter State Park is that it offers a full roster of activities even when special events aren’t being held.

You can hike, swim, boat, bike or camp among the nature sites.

It’s also one of the best places in Nashville to go fishing!

If you’re wondering what to do to “get away from it all” in the Nashville area, Long Hunter State Park is a great destination for relaxing and recharging.

Visit at the right time and you can even enjoy authentic Native American culture!

Address:  2910 Hobson Pike, Hermitage, TN 37076, United States

27. Belle Meade Plantation

legacy1995 / Shutterstock

If you’re interested in revival-style architecture, you’ll die and go to heaven at the Belle Meade Plantation .

It covers more than 30 acres and is filled with 18th and 19th century hallmarks, including cabins, stables, carriage houses, mausoleums and slave quarters.

You can tour the grounds at your leisure or stop at the visitor’s center for a more guided experience.

A winery is nearby if you want to take in the sights while sipping on a red.

Some of the plantation’s points of interest are fun, like the carriage house that stored everything from plain picnicking carriages to elaborate Victorian carriages meant for showing off within the city.

Other points of interest are uncomfortable but necessary, like the educational exhibits on the slaves that built the estate from the ground up.

The Belle Meade Plantation is located a few miles south of Nashville in the city of Belle Meade, so you’ll need to take a short road trip to reach it.

However, if you’re willing to explore attractions near Nashville and not just within it, the plantation is a wonderful place to go!

Address:  5025 Harding Pike, Nashville, TN 37205, United States

28. Timothy Demonbreun House

Timothy Demonbreun House

If you’re hankering for grits and gravy, the Timothy Demonbreun House is one of the best bed-and-breakfast joints in Nashville.

It offers soft, comfortable rooms in a vintage-style mansion, and its menu is filled with all of the Southern cuisines that you can eat!

Romantics, you should also know that the Timothy Demonbreun House is renowned as a wedding and honeymoon destination in Nashville.

It sits on beautiful, picturesque fields of vibrant green grass, and the white neoclassic mansion is a favorite backdrop for engagement photos.

Another fun fact about the Timothy Demonbreun House is that it’s named for Timothy Demonbreun, the so-called “first resident” of Tennessee who lived in a cave on the river.

His great-great-great grandson was tickled by the story and decided to name the business after his most famous ancestor.

Don’t worry, however; you won’t have to sleep in any caves as a visitor!

Book a room at the Timothy Demonbreun House if you’re looking for nice places to visit in the greater Nashville area.

Do it soon; do it this weekend.

It’s a popular destination, especially when love is in the air, so the suites fill up fast!

Address:  746 Benton Ave, Nashville, TN 37204, United States

29. Shelby Bottoms Greenway

Jeremy Christensen / Shutterstock

The Shelby Bottoms Greenway is one of the best places for nature lovers in Nashville, Tennessee.

It boasts forests, swamps, streams, fields and wetlands, so there’s something beautiful to see during every season.

It’s also home to more than five miles of paved trails, so you can enjoy the sights on foot or with a bike or skateboard.

Do you like a challenge?

Shelby Bottoms Greenway has a golden pheasant that scurries around the marshes at certain times of the year.

It’s something of a hobby among naturalists in Nashville to try and spot him before he disappears.

Do you want to slow down and just enjoy yourself in nature?

Spread out a picnic blanket by the river.

No motorized vehicles are allowed in the park, so nothing will disturb your peace and quiet.

Tennessee has some of the most gorgeous scenery in the South, so make sure to visit the Shelby Bottoms Greenway when you’re in Nashville.

It isn’t the only place to stop and smell the roses, but it’s one of the best.

It’s worth a day trip to experience it all.

Address: 1900 Davidson St., Nashville, TN 37206, USA

30. Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant

Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant

Housed in a blocky building straight out of the 1950s, Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant is one of the oddest Nashville attractions that you’ll ever visit.

On one hand, it’s a grocery store where you can stock up on the essentials.

On the other hand, it’s a restaurant where you can order plate lunches and ice-cold pitchers of beer.

On the other other hand, it’s a music hall where you can enjoy live performances from local rock and country bands.

Despite its identity crisis, however, Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant is a hot destination in Nashville.

People come from all over to enjoy its barbecue platters and music shows.

If you’re wondering what to do in the Nashville area on a Friday night, this is a location to consider.

Stop by Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant if you’re looking for the best, most memorable things to do in Nashville.

None of your friends will even believe that you ate dinner and watched a concert in a grocery store.

You’ll have to take pictures to prove it!

Address:  500 Church St, Nashville, TN 37219, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Nashville

These are just a few of the most fun things to do in Nashville, Tennessee.

Whether you’re interested in high-energy concerts or low-key nature retreats, this city has it all.

Happy travels!

The Best Things to Do in Nashville (Even If You're Not a Partier!)

See country legends perform, visit beautiful state parks, taste the best hot chicken, and more.

Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

Nashville has a reputation for being a prime destination for partiers. It's one of the top spots for bachelorette parties, after all! But while there are certainly many honky-tonks open until the wee hours of the morning—and bar bikes riding up and down Broadway all day long—this historic city has even more to offer that you may not know about.

So make your way down Honky Tonk Highway for a quintessential Nashville experience. Or if you'd rather have a quiet night listening to live country music, wait in line for the best hot chicken sandwich (ever!), enjoy a day at a distillery or winery, go zip lining, have a peaceful day at a state park, or take in Nashville views on a hot air balloon, we're happy to report you can do that here too.

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

You can't go to Nashville without learning about country music, and one of the best places to do that is the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum . Located on Music Row in downtown Nashville, this large museum celebrates all things about the genre.

Meet animals at the Nashville Zoo.

Whether or not you're traveling with little ones, it's worth a trip to the Nashville Zoo . Not only are there plenty of animal exhibits, but there are also fun family-friendly experiences, like zip lining, a carousel, and animal shows. Make a day out of it by enjoying some of the dining options, including a pizza kitchen and a creamery.

Stop by the Johnny Cash Museum.

Fans of Johnny Cash will not want to miss the Johnny Cash Museum , which features the world's largest collection of Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia. It's one of the top attractions in the area—and right next door, you can grab something to eat at Johnny Cash's Bar & BBQ .

Find snacks at the Nashville Farmers' Market.

A stop at the Nashville Farmers' Market is a must for anyone who wants to do something low-key. The large market features artisanal food, fresh produce, restaurants, shops, and crafts. Grab some snacks or something to cook later if you need a break from eating out.

Walk the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge.

Take in incredible views of the river and downtown skyline by walking the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge , which is closed to car traffic. The historic bridge built from 1907-09 connects downtown Nashville to East Nashville.

Explore the Adventure Science Center.

If you're looking for a way to entertain the kids, head to the Adventure Science Center , a non-profit science museum for children. There, you'll find over 175 hands-on interactive exhibits, from climbing structures to the Sudekum Planetarium.

Experience the Honky Tonk Highway.

One of the most famous streets in Nashville, the Honky Tonk Highway (aka lower Broadway) is a stretch of honky tonk bars known for their music and atmosphere. For a more family-friendly vibe, go before 8 p.m. If you want to get a little wild, head there after dinner. You'll find iconic spots, like Tootsie's Orchid Lounge and The Second Fiddle.

Enjoy the outdoors at Cumberland Park.

If you want to get out of the city for a bit, Cumberland Park is a great spot to walk along the water and enjoy river views. You can walk The Explorer Trail if you want to see butterflies, or take the kids to the play area.

Get a glimpse of (or go inside!) the Parthenon.

Located in Centennial Park, the Parthenon in Nashville is the world's only exact-size and detail replica of the original in Athens, Greece. It was once created for a celebration—but it was so popular, it stuck around. Today, the building regularly hosts art exhibits.

Browse the Nashville Flea Market.

The Nashville Flea Market at The Fairgrounds is only open during the fourth weekend of each month (with some exceptions), but if you catch it, it's worth a visit. It features a wide variety of shopping booths—and if you're looking for unique antiques and vintage items, it's a great place for browsing.

Catch a show at The Bluebird Cafe.

The tiny Bluebird Cafe isn't just a place to get something to eat: It's one of the most iconic listening rooms in the world. Artists like Taylor Swift and Faith Hill have had career-defining moments there, and the place is teeming with country music history. There are two shows a night and reservations are highly recommended.

Stay at the iconic Hermitage Hotel.

There are a lot of hotels to choose from in Nashville, but an iconic and classic option is The Hermitage Hotel —where music greats like Patsy Cline and Johnny Cash have stayed. It's located in a prime downtown Nashville spot and offers gorgeous rooms and luxury amenities.

Watch country legends perform at the Grand Ole Opry.

The Grand Ole Opry , one of the biggest attractions in Nashville, is one you won't want to miss. Catch a two-hour live show multiple nights a week, with performances by country legends and rising stars—or just take a tour . And if you need somewhere to stay, the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center is a popular hotel, with a spa, golf course, and water attraction.

Visit the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame.

The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame honors teams, coaches, athletes, and more from the state of Tennessee. Even if you don't actively root for a Tennessee team, diehard sports fans will enjoy browsing the memorabilia and taking in sports history.

Fly high in a hot air balloon.

Adventure seekers will want to reserve a seat in a hot air balloon for arguably the best views of middle Tennessee.

Eat at The Grilled Cheeserie.

There are tons of great restaurants to choose from in Nashville, but The Grilled Cheeserie can't be missed. The food-truck-turned-restaurant is known for—of course—grilled cheese. Try one of the popular gourmet options, like the Buffalo South Melt, or make your own.

Spend time in The Warner Parks.

There's so much to do in the city of Nashville that it's easy to forget that there are a lot of nature-centric things too. Edwin and Percy Parks, collectively known as " The Warner Parks ," create one of the largest parks in Tennessee. You'll find these iconic Allée steps, hiking trails, golf courses, dog parks, horse trails, scenic overlooks, and more.

Have lots of fun at Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort.

If you visit Nashville during the spring or summer months, wear the kids out at Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort , a waterpark (with 1 million gallons of water!), adventure course, and campground located on Percy Priest Lake—just 10 miles from downtown Nashville. You can rent a lakeside cabin, go zip lining, rent a pontoon boat, go on the water slides...the list of activities is basically endless.

Embrace music culture at the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum.

There's a lot to see at the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum , so plan accordingly! See instruments used by famous artists, like Simon and Garfunkel, The Beach Boys, Stevie Wonder, and more—and actual studio booths used by the likes of Elvis.

Spend an evening at the Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory.

Visit Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory at Vanderbilt University for tours, telescope nights, meet the astronomer evenings, and more. It's not open all year round, so check the website for hours and ticket information.

Jessica is a freelance writer from New York who loves kale salads and hanging out with her cats.

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32 Best Things To Do In Nashville, Tennessee

The ultimate guide for a trip to the Music City.

John Coletti/Getty

Nashville’s Honky Tonk culture makes it a favorite among bachelorette parties, friend groups, and those who simply travel for a good time. With live music pulsing through the city 24/7—no really, there’s rarely a time you’ll stroll the streets without live music emanating from Broadway’s many multi-level bars, restaurants and honky tonks—it’s the perfect destination for those looking for round-the-clock fun.

But there’s more to Music City than the thrum of Lower Broad and Downtown. The city’s tourist draws have spilled over into neighboring commerce districts like East Nashville, with its plethora of concept bars and indie shops, and Wedgewood-Houston, home to tech hubs, SoHo House, and plenty of spots to quench your thirst— Diskin Cider , Nashville Craft Distillery , and Jackalope Brewing Co.’s The Ranch , to name a few. 

The Nations has long been a bastion of more affordable housing for young families and entrepreneurs, but it’s now a place to eat, drink, and see art too. Its adjacent Charlotte Avenue corridor could not be more vibrant thanks to the evolution of adaptive re-use developments like L&L Market and Sylvan Supply . All that, and Nashville’s food scene is absolutely not to be missed. 

Traveling to Tennessee? Here’s your ultimate list of things to do in Nashville , whether you’re traveling alone, with family, or with a group of friends in tow.

Attend A Live Show At The Opry

Tony R. Phipps / Contributor / Getty

There are few experiences that are more Nashville than attending a show at the Grand Ole Opry , which bears the distinction of being the longest-running radio broadcast in the world and has multiple shows a week year-round. Formatted like a variety show, the Opry puts musical royalty like the Oak Ridge Boys and Carrie Underwood on the lineup alongside newcomers, many taking the circle for the first time. It’s a great opportunity to see your favorites while learning about the next generation of country stars .

Grand Ole Opry ; 600 Opry Mills Dr, Nashville, TN 37214; (615) 871-6779

Visit The Mother Church Of Country Music

Jason Kempin / Staff / Getty

Built in 1892 as the home of the Union Gospel Tabernacle, the Ryman Auditorium remains relatively unchanged in appearance and ambiance with its iconic pews holding as much history as the building itself. The home to the Opry in winter months, the Ryman also hosts shows from world-renowned acts like Foo Fighters and Harry Styles, comedians like Trevor Noah on tour, and live lectures and readings from visiting authors such as Michelle Obama. It’s also open to visitors daily.

Ryman Auditorium ; 116 5th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37219; (615) 889-3060

Cover The City By E-Bike

Raymond Boyd / Contributor / Getty

While public transportation in Nashville is hard to come by, if you don’t have access to a car, you can easily rent a pedal-assist BCycle bike at one of 30+ docking stations and use the city’s growing number of bike lanes and paths to see Nashville from a different angle.

See A Full-Scale Replica Of The Parthenon

Chuck Koehler / Contributor / Getty

One of Nashville’s greatest architectural marvels, the Parthenon is a replica of the Athens original that was built for Tennessee's 1897 Centennial Exposition. It’s now the centerpiece of the 132-acre Centennial Park, which spans a walking trail, Lake Watauga, sports facilities, and gardens.

The Parthenon ; 2500 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203; (615) 862-8431

Enjoy A Free Outdoor Show

Rick Diamond / Staff / Getty

Visitors to Nashville get a front-row seat of all manners of music—from country and Americana to pop and gospel—and among the many outdoor concert options is Musicians Corner , a series of free shows in Centennial Park in late-spring and early-fall.

Musicians Corner ; 2500 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203

Take A Selfie In Front Of The State Capitol

Perched on a hill overlooking the downtown core, Tennessee’s State Capitol opened in 1859 and bears the distinction of being one of the oldest working capitols in the country. It’s open for guided tours on weekdays. Equally impressive to architecture buffs is the Neoclassical War Memorial , a concert venue that sits adjacent to the capitol.

Tennessee State Capitol ; 600 Dr. M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Nashville, TN 37243; (615) 360-4326

Honor Civil Rights Heroes

Paul Natkin / Contributor / Getty

Pivotal to the civil rights movement, Nashville was the site of many sit-ins and protests. The stately downtown branch of the Nashville Public Library lays claim to a Civil Rights Room where you where you can read protestors’ Ten Rules of Conduct and learn more about the influence of key leaders like the late Congressman John Lewis.

Nashville Public Library ; 615 Church St, Nashville, TN 37219; (615) 862-5800

See The Witness Walls

Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp.

Art is a powerful storyteller, and the events that took place during the civil rights movement following the segregation of Davidson County Schools are visually depicted through the Witness Walls at Public Square Park beside the Historic Metro Courthouse.

Witness Walls ; 1 Public Sq, Nashville, TN 37201

Learn About Local History At The Tennessee State Museum

The interactive Tennessee State Museum , next to the farmers’ market and just blocks away from the State Capitol, features permanent exhibits that tell the stories of the First Peoples and take viewers through times of conflict like the Civil War and Reconstruction. Take a stroll along Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park out back to unwind when you’re done at the museum.

Tennessee State Museum ; 1000 Rosa L Parks Blvd, Nashville, TN 37208; (615) 741-2692

Sip Your Way Through The Tennessee Whiskey Trail

Linking the state’s deep distilling history to its modern-day whiskey culture, the 28-stop Tennessee Whiskey Trail weaves its way from Memphis in far West Tennessee to Bristol up at the Virginia border. There are a handful of stops in Nashville—including the largest and recently upgraded Nelson’s Greenbrier Distillery —that you can visit without ever leaving the city’s confines.

Nelson’s Greenbrier Distillery ; 1414 Clinton St, Nashville, TN 37203; (615) 913-8800

Learn About African American Music Makers

Opened in 2021, the National Museum of African American Music offers a look at how African American trailblazers shaped and paved the way for more than 50 musical genres . The sprawling 56,000-square-foot museum sits right in downtown Nashville on Broadway.

National Museum of African American Music ; 510 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203; (615) 301-8724

Peruse Art Exhibits At The Frist

John Schweikert

In a city more dominated by music than visual art, the Frist Art Museum filled a much-needed void when it opened in 2001 and started bringing world-class exhibits—from vintage automobiles to the works of greats like Pablo Picasso and Frida Kahlo—to Nashville. Housed in the opulent old Art Deco post office, the art on the walls aren’t the only stars of the show here.

Frist Art Museum ; 919 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203; (615) 244-3340

Stroll Across The Pedestrian Bridge

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge connects downtown Nashville to Nissan Stadium on the east side of the Cumberland River. For those attending a concert, a Titans game or the annual CMA Fest each June, the footpath is a convenient way to reach the stadium while avoiding traffic. Visiting during the day? The bridge offers one of the best perspectives of the city skyline.

Soak Up The Sun In The City’s Many Green Spaces

Nashville may be a big city , but it’s still got green space in spades. In Davidson and adjoining Williamson County, you’ll find parks aplenty; among them, Harpeth River State Park, Edwin and Percy Warner Parks, Centennial Park, Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary, Bells Bend Nature Park, Montgomery Bell State Park and Radnor Lake. Traveling with kids and stuck downtown? You can walk over to the other side of the river to the 6.5-acre Cumberland Park with playground equipment and water features.

Cumberland Park ; 592 South First Street, Nashville, TN 37213

Check Out The City’s Mural Scene

Nashville’s public art has come a long way since the famed “I Believe in Nashville” in 12South was the only mural in town. Now, the city brims with public art from international artists like Guido van Helten (check out his 160-foot-tall Silo mural in the Nations) and hometown favorites like Mobe, who painted the city’s longest mural for the Tennessee Titans right across from the Music City Center on Korean Veterans Boulevard.  

See The Seasonal Exhibits At Cheekwood

Courtesy of Cheekwood Estate and Gardens

Nashville’s botanical garden, Cheekwood , is situated among the leafy lawns of Belle Meade, one of Nashville’s oldest and most stately neighborhoods. Among the 55 acres of garden, you’ll find a model train, a permanent art museum and rotating seasonal exhibits, like tulips every spring and pumpkins in the fall.

Cheekwood ; 200 Forrest Park Dr, Nashville, TN 37205; (615) 356-8000

Take Home A Concert Poster From Hatch Show Print

Robert Alexander / Contributor / Getty

Nashville’s ultimate souvenir? A letterpress concert post from Hatch Show Print , a Nashville icon for more than 140 years. The shop that was originally a Broadway staple moved into the Country Music Hall of Fame a handful of years ago and now has a much larger studio space that can accommodate both shoppers and those who want to take a letterpress class.

Hatch Show Print ; 224 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN 37203; (615) 577-7710

Make Your Own Goo Goo

Goo Goo Cluster

Nashville’s century-old candy brand , Goo Goo Chocolate Co. has a storefront right off Broadway that has undergone a major renovation in recent years. In addition to buying Goo Goo-themed merch like the popular “What a Cluster!” Tees, you can pick up treats only available at the store and even make your own Premium four-ounce candy at electronic stations that allow you to choose what ingredients you sandwich among the chocolate and nougat. 

Goo Goo Chocolate Co. ; 116 3rd Ave S, Nashville, TN 37201; (615) 490-6685

Catch A Bluegrass Jam At Station Inn

Erika Goldring / Contributor / Getty

While many of Nashville’s storied haunts have shuttered as the city’s growth explodes, Station Inn has remained untouched and true to its roots. Go for the weekly Sunday night Bluegrass Jam, in which a mishmash of pickers and players take the stage for the ultimate jam session; all are welcome to bring an instrument and participate. Bonus: It’s free to attend, and you never know who might show up.

Station Inn ; 402 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203 ; (615) 255-3307

Time-Travel Back Through Country Music History

Whether you consider yourself a country music scholar or are merely an enthusiast, you’re guaranteed to learn something—or maybe simply gawk at costumes and memorabilia from your favorite artists—at the Country Music Hall of Fame . The CMHOF also manages RCA Studio B —known as the birthplace of the Nashville sound and where Elvis Presley once recorded—and Hatch Show Print and offers a combo tour pass to all three attractions.

Country Music Hall of Fame ; 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN 37203; (615) 416-2001

Visit The Nashville Farmers’ Market

For a taste of everything the city has to offer under one roof, the Market House at the Nashville Farmers’ Market is open seven days a week and features a variety of food from bulgogi bibimbap at Bowl & Roll to Chicago-Style Gyros to Bubble Love tea. Be sure and check out the outdoor farm sheds where more than 150 farmers, bakers, and makers from all walks set up shop several days a week.

Nashville Farmers’ Market ; 900 Rosa L Parks Blvd, Nashville, TN 37208; (615) 880-2001

Go To Space Via The Adventure Science Center

Adventure Science Center

The Adventure Science Center is not just for kids (though, of course, it’s got plenty for them, too!). The museum’s Sudekum Planetarium soars with laser shows, skies that change with the seasons and educational films lighting up its 63-foot dome theater.

Adventure Science Center ; 800 Fort Negley Blvd, Nashville, TN 37203; (615) 862-5160

Test Your Taste Buds With Nashville Hot Chicken

COURTESY OF HATTIE B'S HOT CHICKEN

A deep-fried bird, smothered in spices and served on white bread, Nashville hot chicken has become a global sensation, spotted on menus in cities around the world. While Prince’s is oft-credited with making Nashville hot chicken a household name, Bolton’s and 400 Degrees also are worthy contenders.

Prince’s ; 5814 Nolensville Pike, Nashville, TN 37211; (615) 810-9388

Bolton’s ; 624 Main St, Nashville, TN 37206; (615) 254-8015

400 Degrees ; 3704 Clarksville Pike, Nashville, TN 37218; (615) 244-4467

Find Your New Favorite Barbecue Spot

COURTESY OF PEG LEG PORKER

Chicken not your jam? There’s no shortage of barbecue in Nashville either. If you love brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, you’ll likely have decision paralysis when deciding where to go. Peg Leg Porker is a perennial favorite, Edley’s , Martin’s , Jack’s , Whitt’s , and Central BBQ are just a few that consistently get top marks from visitors and locals alike.

Peg Leg Porker ; 903 Gleaves St, Nashville, TN 37203; (615) 829-6023

Central BBQ ; 1601 21st. Ave. S., Nashville, TN 37212; (615) 610-3440

Martin’s ; multiple locations

Jack’s ; multiple locations

Whitt’s ; multiple locations

Indulge In Nashville’s Ultimate Tasting Experience

Minnie Morklithavong

BBQ and hot chicken are great and all, but the ultimate foodie adventure can’t arrive in Nashville without having booked a table at Tailor , Chef Vivek Surti’s supper club-turned-restaurant. Four nights a week, the first-generation American guides diners through Indian dishes he grew up on—with his own spin. The result is one unforgettable and intimate journey through culture and cuisine via a dozen or so courses.

Tailor ; 620 Taylor St, Nashville, TN 37208

Check Out The Vintage Cars At Lane Motor Museum

Boasting 150 cars and motorcycles on its showroom floor, Lane Motor Museum is home to the United States’ largest collection of European cars. This working museum aims to keep all its cars in running condition, and a daily demonstration at 11am is included in the price of admission.

Lane Motor Museum ; 702 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville, TN 37210; (615) 742-7445

Explore Nashville’s International Corridor

JOHNNY AUTRY; PROP AND FOOD STYLING: CHARLOTTE L. AUTRY

Head down Nolensville Road, and you’ll find international restaurants galore, as well as the largest Kurdish population in America. Start your culinary adventure with fresh-baked good from Azadi International Food Market, then craft a taco crawl among the many stands and trucks that pepper the neighborhood.

Azadi International Food Market; 391 Elysian Fields Ct, Nashville, TN 37211; (615) 315-0940

Sample Nashville’s Craft Beer Scene

ANDREA BEHRENDS

Nashville’s beer scene has long been on the rise thanks to the OGs like Yazoo , established way back in 2003, and the many others who followed like Fat Bottom , Southern Grist , and Jackalope , which was named one of the South's best breweries .

Jackalope ; 429B Houston St, Nashville, TN 37203; (615) 873-4313

Southern Grist ; multiple locations

Fat Bottom ; 800 44th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37209; (615) 678-5715

Take A Day Trip Along The Natchez Trace Parkway

Odinn Media

Nashville is the northern terminus of the 444-mile Natchez Trace Parkway that ends in Natchez, Miss. Even if you don’t have the time to make the multi-day trip, it’s less than 10 miles from the start to one of the parkway’s most photographed scenes: the double-arch Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge. While you’re already in Williamson County, you might as well browse the art galleries of Leiper’s Fork and explore Franklin ’s historic Main Street.

Try The Biscuits At Loveless Café

ROBBIE CAPONETTO

Right next to the start of the Natchez Trace Parkway, the Loveless Café has been slinging up steamy plates of country ham and the very best buttered biscuits since it first opened in 1951. Even if you don’t have time for a full sit-down breakfast—and the line is often long, especially on weekends—stop by the on-site country market and take some goodies to go.

  Loveless Café ; 8400 TN-100, Nashville, TN 37221; (615) 646-9700

Rent A Paddleboard On Percy Priest Lake

Mickey-Bernal

Nashville’s a rare big city that’s flanked by both rivers and lakes , Percy Priest being one of the most popular recreational spots for water sports during warmer months. For more than a decade, Nashville Paddle Company has been getting people out on the water, both via board and kayak rentals, as well as classes like SUP Yoga and guided group paddles.

Nashville Paddle Company ; 2901 Bell Rd, Nashville, TN 37217; (615) 682-1787

See A Professional Sporting Event

Wesley Hitt / Contributor / Getty

No matter the time of year, Nashville has a pro team taking the turf, pitch or field. The Tennessee Titans play at Nissan Stadium during football season, the Nashville Predators take the ice at Bridgestone Arena during hockey months, and Nashville SC breaks out the cleats at GEODIS Park. Spring months also see the Triple-AAA Nashville Sounds step up to the plate at First Horizon Park right in the heart of downtown.

Related Articles

The 15 Best Things to do in Nashville, Tennessee

Like a siren’s song for country music lovers, Nashville has long attracted visitors eager to walk in the footsteps of legends. For decades, this was the place where aspiring artists came to be launched into fame and fortune. But America’s line dancing capital has changed dramatically in the last decade, attracting more and more visitors every year! 

No longer is it just a dream destination for country crooners – this city is getting well-deserved attention for everything else it has to offer. Nashville’s vibrant Lower Broadway nightlife scene, rich American history, finger-lickin’ hot chicken, and natural playground of rolling hills make it a destination even for travelers who can’t stand the sound of a twangy guitar. 

Sure, it has remained true to its boot-stompin’ and rowdy honky-tonk reputation, but a visit to Nashville will take you places you didn’t know existed in Tennessee .

With so many different things to see and do, you might not know where to begin. So we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do in Nashville for you. Stick to these fun and unique Nashville bucket list recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have the trip of a lifetime to Music City! 

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to do in Nashville, Tennessee

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 cool and unique things to do in Nashville

1. walk in the footsteps of the stars at ryman auditorium.

If a love of country music beckons you to Nashville, visiting  Ryman Auditorium  will be like walking into a dream. You’ll enter the big white doors and be standing in the very place bluegrass music began. Take the backstage tour, and you’ll trace the footsteps of legends like Elvis Presley, Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, and Patsy Cline.

Ryman Auditorium was the long-time venue of the Grand Ole Opry and still regularly hosts live music acts today. Don’t like country? You’re in luck as artists of all genres play here today. The Wu-Tang Clan made history as the first hip-hop group to appear on the Ryman stage in 2019!

If you don’t have the time to catch a show, you can opt for the self-guided tour and geek out on costumes and memorabilia that belonged to the stars, as well as get your photo taken on stage.

Even if you aren’t a music buff, the building is a museum in its own right! Built in 1892, Ryman Auditorium was originally a place of worship, which is how it got its nickname “Mother Church.” The original oak pews still line the venue, which is lit beautifully by tall stained-glass windows.

2. Pedal the 26-Mile Music City Bikeway

Nashville may be known for its country ballads, but it’s also gaining a reputation for being one of the best cities to bike in the South. 

Nashville’s many greenways allow for endless opportunities to explore the city on two wheels and will take you on scenic routes past the Cumberland River, historic neighborhoods, and even to a pit stop at the best local watering holes. 

Cyclists hungry for a long ride will enjoy the  26-mile Music City Bikeway , which serves as a connection for many of the city’s greenway systems. Most of the route is on the paved greenway and removed from traffic, but some segments in highly-trafficked areas are separated bike lanes.

If you take the ride, expect to pedal past some of the city’s most iconic murals and historic hidden gems, like Fort Nashorough, a pioneer-era fort built in the 1700s! Exploring the Music City Bikeway is truly one of the most unique to do in Nashville.

3. Visit a Speakeasy on Printer’s Alley

In the days of Prohibition, Nashville’s historic Printer’s Alley was home to the swankiest secret party spots. Luckily, the former speakeasies are now back in action in this nightlife district, giving you a chance to party like it’s 1909! 

Today Printer’s Alley is lined with shops, bars, and restaurants that pay homage to the alley’s storied past. Walk under the neon signs (many of them are restored versions of the originals) that hung above the music icons during their late-night frolics after a big show. Today, you’ll find elegant but refined dive bars, speakeasies that offer nightly burlesque shows, and karaoke spots frequented by some of the stars.

If you’re seeking a daytime way to experience this piece of Nashville history, you may consider stopping by on the first Saturday of the month for the FirstBank First Saturday Art Crawl. Artists set up shop outside, and you’ll get a chance to see them in action creating their masterpieces! 

4. Zipline through an Old-Growth Forest

Surrounded by ancient forests, Nashville has plenty of options to get away from the hustle and bustle of Lower Broadway. If it’s an outdoor adventure you’re after, you’ll find it in the treetops. 

Make the trip even more memorable by planning your fly through the forest during the first weeks of June when fireflies take over the Tennessee forests. Grab a helmet and clip into a safety harness to zip through the air with nothing but a steel cable above you. You’ll zoom through the air at dusk as the forest lights up around you!

Adventureworks Zipline Forest also offers seasonal packages that are geared toward couples. Zip tours are available year-round. 

5. Dance Down Honky Tonk Highway

If you’re headed to Nashville, chances are you love music so much you’re willing to dance in public to it!

There’s no shortage of places to bust a move in Music City, including some stops that are known around the world for their dance floors. The Wildhorse Saloon  offers complimentary line dancing lessons on the largest dance floor in Nashville. 

No worries if you’ve never done it before. The instructors tailor the lessons to dancers of any age or ability. Plus, classes are held on the hour. 

Once you know the steps, you can take your dancing boots to Lower Broadway, also known as Honky Tonk Highway. Follow the neon lights to the dance floor and two-step until it’s time to head back to your swanky  Nashville hotel !

6. Kayak Past the Nashville Skyline 

The neon lights of Nashville will get anyone’s heart pumping, but there’s another view of the city few people have the opportunity to see – Music City’s skyline from the water! If you don’t have your own watercraft, several outfitters will rent them to you and even offer shuttle services from Shelby Park to Cumberland Park. Routes vary from a short and sweet one-hour tour to a four-hour excursion.

Along the way, you’ll be treated to views of Tennessee’s vibrant wildlife. You’ll travel under bridges where you’ll have the opportunity to spot blue herons, turtles, and kingfishers.

If you’d rather pedal than paddle and keep your hands free to hold a drink, you can even climb aboard a  Pedal Pontoon Party Boat and make this outdoor adventure a party! 

7. Peruse Works of Art at the Parthenon

Who knew traveling to Nashville could give you a taste of Athens in the 5th century BCE? The  Parthenon in Nashville  is the only place in the world where you can visit an exact-size and detailed replica of the original temple in Greece! 

Back in the early days, Nashville was called the “Athens of the South,” so in 1897, the residents decided to spruce the city up with a massive look-a-like of one of the most famous structures in Greece. Although it was meant to be temporary, people loved it so much that it’s still considered a must on everyone’s Nashville bucket list. The current structure was rebuilt in the 1920s and now houses a wide range of art and history exhibits.

Time your trip out perfectly, and you might even be able to swing by one of the Parthenon’s themed programs geared to immerse guests in arts and 2,500 years of history! The crown jewel for most visitors is the 42-foot statue of Athena – a full-scale replica of the Athenian original.

The museum is inside Centennial Park, a popular place for a pop-up picnic or a leisurely walk through the gardens. 

8. Hike the Radnor Lake Loop

If you need a chance to stretch your legs and burn off some calories from all the hot chicken you’re consuming,  Radnor Lake  is home to some of the highest hills in the area and is located within an easy 20-minute drive from Nashville. Radnor Lake is considered a tranquil oasis from Music City and is brimming with wooded trails and diverse wildlife. 

The natural area has 7.75 miles of trails, so you can choose your own adventure. Options range from a short, easy hike to more of a challenge on rugged terrain.

The ADA-accessible trail is the short .25-mile Spillway Trail that will take you to the beautiful observation deck of Radnor Lake. If you’re looking for more of a challenge, opt for the Ganier Ridge Trail, a 1.6-mile hike that will take you up into the forested hills that surround Radnor Lake.

Bikers, joggers, and people with pets will enjoy Otter Creek Road, which offers a beautiful view of the lake. Time your trip right, and you could even participate in one of the many ranger-led programs at the park, including canoe floats and astronomy night hikes.

9. Do a Biscuit Crawl through Music City

Hungry for a Nashville culinary staple? Nashville is known for its hot chicken, but that isn’t always easy to binge on. If you want a foodie adventure, you’re going to want to become a Nashville biscuit connoisseur! 

Biscuits are like the cookies of the South, and many restaurants compete to be considered the maker of the city’s most buttery, melt-in-your-mouth version. They find there’s plenty of demand for competition. It’s no secret that Nashvillians love biscuits!

One of the most popular places for those who like their treats on the sweeter side is  Biscuit Love , a food truck turned brick and mortar store that offers sweet and savory takes on this Southern classic. They’ve created a donut-biscuit hybrid stuffed with fruity filling, affectionately referred to as a “bonut.”

Loveless Cafe  is famous for its secret biscuit recipe if you’re craving a classic taste of Nashville. The rustic-chic restaurant is inside a former motel, and the original rooms now serve as shops and event spaces.

You will stay busy playing the yard games on the property at Loveless Cafe for hours. Several vendors are on-site, so you can also find a piece of Nashville to bring back home with you. The biscuits here are famous, and approximately 10,000 hot and fluffy bites are made each day!

10. Sip Wine at President Andrew Jackson’s House 

While there are several places to sample wine in Nashville, only one of them is on the property of the seventh president of the United States. 

The Natchez Hills Winery is a boutique, family-run vineyard located inside of  Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage estate . The vineyard produces small-batch, old-world style wines. A tasting room at the Hermitage gives you the chance to visit the estate and learn more about the former president, all while enjoying a wine flight!

The venue also offers wine slushes that can be carried throughout the property on tours. A discount is given if you choose to take the mansion tour and follow an interpreter through the house and farmland that belonged to the Jacksons. 

Visitors can also learn more about enslaved people’s lives at the Hermitage by taking an “In Their Footsteps” tour. During this tour, you will learn how vital slaves were to the operation of the farm, the harsh reality of the system they were trapped in, and how these men and women endured until gaining their freedom.

11. Go “Rollin Down the River” on a Showboat

If you want to get as much out of your trip as possible, combine a Southern-style meal, scenic views of the Nashville skyline, and live entertainment into one exciting adventure! 

The General Jackson Showboat is one of the largest paddlewheel riverboats in the country. You can climb aboard this historically recreated paddleboat for lunch or dinner and catch a show in the two-story Victorian theater. 

That boat has a rotating schedule of performances, and the cruises range from 2 1/2 to 4 hours long. The ship has a full-service bar and kitchen with several different meal options for each cruise. Book a seat at the Captain’s Table, and you’ll also get a special tour of the boat’s Pilothouse.

The paddleboat has several outdoor patios and docks to view the city’s skyline from the water, making it one of the coolest things to do in Nashville!

12. Take a Boozy Tractor Ride

Nashville may be the only major US city where it’s acceptable to party while rolling down the street behind a tractor. Amid a crowd of pedaling pubs, the new trend in Music City is country-chic farm parties!

Several companies have versions of the service, and most include a 75-minute ride on the back of a tractor with dance music and flowing drinks. 

If the nightlife scene has attracted you to the city, a boozy tour on wheels is one way to get the party started and one of the top things to do in Nashville. A tractor booze cruise will take you past the most famous sights in the city in style. 

If tractors aren’t your thing, there are several other boozy options like bus or limousine tours through Lower Broadway. 

13. Visit the Legends at the Country Music Hall of Fame

The Country Music Hall of Fame has one of the world’s most extensive music collections, making it a country music lover’s paradise! Created as a way to preserve and honor America’s love of country music, the Hall of Fame has nearly 150 inductees, including Garth Brooks, Johnny Cash, Reba McEntire, and Hank Williams. 

It’s one big museum in honor of the country crooners and offers live music, educational family programs, and exhibits with thousands of artifacts on display. 

While the Country Music Hall of Fame is home to objects associated with historical moments in the country’s creation of western music, several rotating exhibits feature the behind-the-scenes stories about current stars.

Expect to spend a lot of time in this timeless vault as there are more than 2.5 million artifacts. You may be surprised just how many artists are considered “country,” and you never know who you’ll find inside this maze of history. Expect to see gold records, a Cadillac owned by Elvis, elaborate costumes, and handwritten notes on the sheet music for iconic American songs.

An additional ticket package will also give you the option to spend an extra $20 and take the Historic RCA Studio B Tour. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to stand right where the legends like Waylon Jennings and Dolly Parton recorded their hits. 

Elvis was something of a regular in the studio and recorded a whopping 200 songs here. Take the tour, and you’ll hear the true behind-the-scenes stories about the creation of the songs you know every word to. If you’re a country music fan, this tour should be at the top of your Nashville bucket list!

Buy your Entry Ticket

14. Find the Waterfall at Narrows of the Harpeth

If you need a break from the music, biscuits, and booze,  Narrows of the Harpeth  is one of the most unique things to do in Nashville. The natural area features several options to get some fresh air while learning about this part of the country’s history.

The trails are located about a 30-minute drive from Nashville. The trailhead at the park entrance splits into three different directions. 

The most popular hike is the overlook trail, consisting of a steep ascent to a bluff along a .25-mile path with about 125 feet of total elevation. If you can make it to the top, you’ll be treated with a view of Harpeth River from above, a sight that is truly stunning during the fall peak season! 

The second half-mile trail follows the backside of a limestone bluff that leads to the Montgomery Bell’s Pattison Forge. Here, a small manmade waterfall from an iron forge operation is nestled in the trees.

This isn’t your average waterfall – it’s more like a piece of history. Montgomery Bell owned the land in 1818 and had his slaves excavate a tunnel through the rock ridge that separated the riverbeds 200 years ago. The tunnel was designed to convey water for power and was completed in 1820. 

Today, the area is maintained by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation. Time your visit right as views of the waterfall are best after significant rainfall. Harpeth River State Park also has many other recreational activities, including kayaking, canoeing, bird watching, and fishing. 

15. See a Show at the Grand Ole Opry

What started as a radio broadcast eventually became one of today’s most successful live stage shows! For the past 95 years, the Grand Ole Opry has been in the dreams of every aspiring country artist. 

It’s the world’s longest-running broadcast and serves as a milestone for every country music artist. Many even consider it to be the “home of American music.” 

The Opry left Ryman Auditorium in 1974 for its current building, but if you don’t have time to see both, you could figuratively stand in both venues at once. A 6-foot circle of hardwood from the Ryman Auditorium was placed on center stage and is where most acts stand while performing today. Quite a few celebrities have graced this spot, including President Nixon, who performed at the new Grand Ole Opry during its first show.

Opry shows may have one or two headliners with a handful of other acts that perform before the main event. If you want the ultimate chance to brush elbows with the rich and famous or soon-to-be rich and famous, you can purchase a VIP backstage tour. 

On this tour, you’ll have the chance to stand in the 6-foot Ryman stage circle, explore the artist entrance where the superstars walked before their chance at fame and glory, and even get a quick look at the empty artists’ dressing rooms. 

A show at the Grand Ole Opry usually lasts about two hours and makes for an action-packed Nashville bucket list evening!

Get a Ticket to the Show!

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Nashville. What’s your favorite thing to do in Music City?

Planning a trip to Nashville? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Nashville may be known for its country ballads, but it’s also gaining a reputation for being one of the best cities to bike in the South. Cyclists hungry for a long ride will enjoy the 26-mile Music City Bikeway, which serves as a connection for many of the city’s greenway systems. Most of the route is on the paved greenway and removed from traffic, but some segments in highly-trafficked areas are separated bike lanes.

Make the trip even more memorable by planning your flight through the forest during the first weeks of June when fireflies take over the Tennessee forests. Grab a helmet and clip into a safety harness to zip through the air with nothing but a steel cable above you. You’ll zoom through the air at dusk as the forest lights up around you!

If you need a chance to stretch your legs and burn off some calories from all the hot chicken you’re consuming, Radnor Lake is home to some of the highest hills in the area and is located within an easy 20-minute drive from Nashville. Radnor Lake is considered a tranquil oasis from Music City and is brimming with wooded trails and diverse wildlife. The natural area has 7.75 miles of trails, so you can choose your own adventure. Options range from a short, easy hike to more of a challenge on rugged terrain.

Hungry for a Nashville culinary staple? Nashville is known for its hot chicken, but that isn’t always easy to binge on. If you want a foodie adventure, you’re going to want to become a Nashville biscuit connoisseur! Biscuits are like the cookies of the South, and many restaurants compete to be considered the maker of the city’s most buttery, melt-in-your-mouth version. They find there’s plenty of demand for competition. It’s no secret that Nashvillians love biscuits!

The Country Music Hall of Fame has one of the world’s most extensive music collections, making it a country music lover’s paradise! Created as a way to preserve and honor America’s love of country music, the Hall of Fame has nearly 150 inductees, including Garth Brooks, Johnny Cash, Reba McEntire, and Hank Williams. It’s one big museum in honor of the country crooners and offers live music, educational family programs, and exhibits with thousands of artifacts on display.

If you want to get as much out of your trip as possible, combine a Southern-style meal, scenic views of the Nashville skyline, and live entertainment into one exciting adventure! The General Jackson Showboat is one of the largest paddlewheel riverboats in the country. You can climb aboard this historically recreated paddleboat for lunch or dinner and catch a show in the two-story Victorian theater.

About the Author:

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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Home » North America » USA » Tennessee » 39 Best Things to Do in Nashville

39 Best Things to Do in Nashville

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: November 1, 2023

Music City (aka Nashville) seems to have it all. There is live music basically any hour of the day, fun places to hang out and relax, and history stretching back to the early days of America. And don’t forget the incredible food. We’ve spent a lot of time exploring the city and learning about all the best things to do in Nashville, Tennessee.

Whether you’re looking to booze it up at a rooftop bar on Broadway, settle in for a night of acoustic music, or uncover the quirky side of the city, there is plenty to choose from. From finding cool street art to checking out the city’s museums, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s a look at some of our favorite ways to spend time in the city. 

Try hot chicken

See the parthenon, visit robert’s western world, hang out at pinewood social, visit the hermitage hotel, shop at marathon village, seek out street art, try biscuits at loveless cafe, see a show at a listening room, sink your teeth into a goo goo cluster, tour belle meade historic site, enjoy the view at a rooftop bar, visit the ryman auditorium, see hatch show print, play around at tee line, get outside at cheekwood estate & gardens, sample spirits at a local distillery, try artisan chocolate at olive and sinclair, stroll the seigenthaler pedestrian bridge, visit the national museum of african american music, hang out in printers alley, indulge at five daughters bakery, browse five points alley shops, tour belmont mansion, go wine tasting at arrington vineyards, see an exhibit at the frist art museum, visit the johnny cash museum, browse nashville farmers market, learn about history in the civil rights room, explore l&l market, have a drink at the patterson house, take a walk at the warner parks, explore gaylord opryland, visit andrew jackson’s hermitage, try a flight at diskin cider, eat dinner in a former theater, see the country music hall of fame, enjoy a game at game point cafe, wander hillsboro village.

Trying hot chicken is at the top of the must do list in Nashville. The succulent meat is marinated, floured, and fried. But the last couple of steps are what set it apart from other fried chicken.

Right before serving, a cayenne pepper sauce is added to the hot chicken before it is neatly positioned between a slice of white bread and pickle chips. Depending on your request, the sauce can vary from mild to sweet-Jesus-this-is-spicy. Add black eyed peas, baked beans, French fries, or pimento mac-and-cheese, and you’re good to go.

Prince’s Hot Chicken is the original place to try Nashville hot chicken. They’ve been making it delicious and down home for over 80 years. Bolton’s also comes highly recommended. My choice is Hattie B’s , which has quickly become a local staple.

Centennial Park is home to a full-size replica of the Parthenon , originally built in 1897. Now an art museum, it houses a group of paintings by 19th- and 20th-century American artists and provides space for temporary exhibits.

The centerpiece of the building is an imposing 42-foot-tall statue of Athena covered in gold leaf, as it would have been in the Parthenon in Athens . Not exactly an expected sight in the American South.

See The Parthenon and other landmarks the easy way on a half-day city tour or this 2.5-hour Segway tour . To do it all at your own pace, the hop-on hop-off trolley is a great option.

On our first trip to the city, a Nashville native told us that the only honky tonk on Broadway that locals go to is Robert’s Western World . We can’t confirm that, but the recommendation made us change our plans and head for the place with the boot and guitar sign.

Honky tonks don’t have a cover charge, so you can grab a stool, order the house specialty—a fried bologna sandwich—and pay what you wish when the band passes the tip jar. Live bands play essentially all day, providing the soundtrack for visitors two-stepping just in front of the stage.

The classic country tunes give the place a laid back but fun atmosphere if you want to have a good time without feeling like you’re in the middle of a rock concert. You can’t have an experience like this just anywhere, which makes visiting Robert’s Western World one of our favorite Nashville activities.

Pinewood Social is…well, it’s almost impossible to come up with a short phrase to describe this distinctive, genius space. A restaurant, coffee shop, bowling alley, outdoor oasis, and co-working space all rolled into one, Pinewood Social serves just about every need morning, noon, and night. It’s one of the best places to visit in Nashville.

Pinewood Social is a great place to have a cup of coffee and get some work done during the day before visiting the pool and grabbing dinner and a cocktail in the evening. And don’t forget the bocce ball.

If we lived in Nashville, we’d be here all the time. Instead, we have to settle for having the smashburger and crispy tater tots on every visit.

The Hermitage Hotel is one of the finest places to stay in Music City. At over 100 years old, the hotel has welcomed just about everybody who’s anybody into its well-appointed rooms (there was a Keith Urban sighting during our visit!).

The lobby is spectacular, and the food is delicious, but one of the quirkiest reasons to visit the Hermitage Hotel is the Art Deco men’s bathroom. Located just off the hotel lobby, it has consistently been noted as the best bathroom in America.

The large loo is decorated with bright green and black glass tiles and green fixtures. If you’re in the mood, you can stop a moment in the two-seat shoeshine station that greets you when you pass through the door. At this point, it’s so famous that the bathroom is also open for women. And photos. A visit here is one of the best free things to do in Nashville.

At Marathon Village , a former automobile plant has been re-purposed into a cool shopping center and creative community in the North Gulch neighborhood. There are art studios, galleries, and home decor and gift shops. You’ll even find Antique Archaeology—the shop owned by the guy in the History Channel’s American Pickers show—and one of the famous “I Believe in Nashville” murals.

The building renovation was a decades-long labor of love resulting in a contemporary space that’s full of history. In open spaces throughout the building, there is old equipment from the original factory and panels describing the building’s illustrious past.

Nashville is packed with street art. Hidden in alleys, under bridges, in parking lots—murals and artworks seem to be everywhere. Finding them around the city feels like a scavenger hunt. Luckily, you never have to look too far.

One of the most popular murals in town is the “WhatLiftsYou Wings mural ” by Kelsey Montague, which you can find in The Gulch. There’s even a painted line on the sidewalk to show people where to patiently wait a turn for a photo. When you’re done there, take a walk down 11th Avenue South to see what other murals you can find.

Beyond The Gulch, the Germantown and East Nashville neighborhoods have lots of street art. Wander the area near Werthan Lofts or take a drive down Gallatin Pike to see some of the highlights of the ever-changing canvas.

Loveless Cafe in southwest Nashville, Tennessee, is the place to go for Southern cooking. It’s known for all things heavenly from country ham to red-eye gravy and especially its all-day breakfast. But what people line up for just about every day of the week are the biscuits at Loveless Cafe .

The flaky pillows of love—served with homemade preserves, of course—come alongside almost everything on the menu. That’s because they’re delicious and rival the cooking of any Southern grandma. Made from scratch every day, the biscuits are worth the 25-minute trip outside of town.

See our recommendations for a weekend itinerary in Nashville .

There’s no shortage of great music in Nashville, but the bars and honky tonks—especially downtown—can get a little crazy. If you’re looking for a more relaxing environment, consider one of the venues featuring song writers and up-and-coming performers.

Bluebird Cafe is the classic listening room. It’s super popular, and even their open mic nights sell out faster than you can say “Music City.” The aptly-named The Listening Room Cafe is a great alternative for hearing works straight from the song writers of both new songs and chart-topping hits. They also serve good food and have valet parking. It’s a great date night spot .

Take peanuts, caramel, and marshmallow, and coat it in milk chocolate, and you get what is essentially the perfect candy bar—a Goo Goo Cluster. Invented in 1912, this classic candy has its own outpost in the heart of downtown.

At the Goo Goo Chocolate Co., you can find varieties of the clusters or go all-out at their dessert bar with different kinds of fudge, ice cream, and other treats. I did the classic with a spin—premium vanilla ice cream topped with a chopped peanut butter Goo Goo Cluster. It was heaven.

To immerse yourself in this chocolate world even more, consider their make-your-own chocolate bar classes or a class that pairs chocolate with wines and spirits.

Once home to the wealthiest family in Nashville and the largest thoroughbred horse farm in the US, Belle Meade plantation welcomed celebrities, presidents, and countless notable people at its height.

Today, a tour of Belle Meade offers a glimpse into the life of the moneyed class around the time of the Civil War and beyond. Visitors can wander the grounds to see original buildings, tour the mansion, and learn about the lives of the enslaved people who built the family’s fortune. It’s an interesting and educational experience to get a brief peek into the Old South at one of the top places to go in Nashville.

Nashville is blessed with dozens of rooftop bars with picturesque views and lots of ambiance. From pool decks and live music to seating in swings and private cabanas, they are great places to chill out and enjoy your beverage of choice.

On Broadway, Lookout at Ole Red is our go-to spot—it’s a bit more refined than some places and has a great view of the action. In The Gulch, our choice is Up , a rooftop lounge where you can relax on the couches or chat over the fire pits.

In the Arts District, the super cool Bobby Hotel has a premium rooftop lounge. You can grab a seat at the bar or hang out in the bus. In winter, you may even find yourself in one of their igloos or chic cedar cabins like we did.

In many ways, the Ryman Auditorium made Nashville the capital of country music. Opened in 1892 as the Union Gospel Tabernacle, the Ryman was the home of the Grand Ole Opry, which was broadcast from the stage every week for 30 years.

Today, visitors can tour the hallowed auditorium and hear Trisha Yearwood, Nicole Kidman, and others talk about the history of the building and its performers on audio information panels. You can take a photo on the Ryman’s famous stage and even make a record. The self-guided tour of one of the top Nashville attractions is at your own pace.

If a tour isn’t quite your speed, you can grab a ticket to one of the performances (country music and beyond) that still happen here almost every night of the week.

Hatch Show Print’s distinctive letterpress printing style is known throughout the South. Its images of Americana—especially those related to music and art—and its vintage lettering have made it sought after by entertainers and businesses. One of the oldest working letterpress print shops in America, Hatch Show Print is open for tours, and you can even make your own prints at one of their regular block parties.

We loved browsing all the examples from art through the years and seeing presses and fonts on display. When you’re finished, pop into Bajo Sexto Taco (in the same building) for great street tacos. We loved the carnitas and the coconut shrimp tacos. You can even grab a margarita to-go.

For something a little unexpected, head to Tee Line . A visit to the city’s first curling venue is what to do in Nashville when you want something off the typical tourist track. This fun space has classes where you can learn to curl, bowling lanes, and lots of food, drink, and TVs for when you want a break from the recreation.

Tee Line features daily happy hour specials, and there is always something fun happening here, so it’s great to visit even if you only want to be a spectator.

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is a must if getting outdoors is on your Nashville to do list. The beautiful botanical garden spans 55 acres and features 12 distinct gardens and a woodland walking trail. It’s an easy place to lose yourself for hours among the trees and blooming flowers. We’ve been in spring and winter, and it was stunning in both seasons.

There are seasonal festivals and events like the spring Cheekwood in Bloom that features over 150,000 blooming bulbs and Cheekwood Lights , which includes over one million lights during the holiday season.

The estate’s art galleries showcase some of the 7000 works in its permanent collection—including sculpture, paintings, and artifacts from around the world—as well as temporary exhibitions.

Distilleries are always on the top of our list any time we visit a new destination. About 90 minutes from Nashville in Lynchburg, you’ll find the home of the top-selling American whiskey in the world—Jack Daniel’s. A tour of the Jack Daniel’s distillery demonstrates the care and craftsmanship that goes into this line of incredibly popular beverages.

Whether you’re a Jack drinker or not, we couldn’t recommend the tour here more highly. And, if you are a Jack drinker, definitely take the tasting tour. It’s one of the best things to do in Tennessee !

If you’d like to visit Jack Daniel’s but don’t want to drive yourself, check out this convenient transportation option.

If you want to stick a little closer to Music City, there are several great Nashville distilleries to visit . Three of our favorites are Corsair Distillery, Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, and Nashville Craft Distillery.

At Corsair’s location on Merritt Avenue, visitors can sample absinthe, whiskey, gin, or any of the other spirits at the bar or take a behind-the-scenes tour. Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery offers tours, tastings, and cocktail experiences featuring their bourbons that are made using pre-Prohibition family recipes. Nashville Craft Distillery produces small-batch spirits like gin and bourbon as well as unique offerings made from sorghum. I particularly liked their spiced honey liqueur.

Located in a 19 th -century building in East Nashville, Olive and Sinclair is the city’s premier chocolate maker. They pride themselves on being Tennessee’s first “bean-to-bar” chocolate company, roasting and grinding the cacao and making their unique flavors on-site. Stop by to try their sea salt chocolate, duck fat caramels, or other specialties.

If you want to see the process at work, take one of the Saturday tours. There are plenty of samples available on the 45-minute tour, and you’ll learn all there is to know about how the artisan chocolate is made.

The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge spans the Cumberland River and connects downtown to the football stadium. There is no automobile traffic, so cyclists and walkers move at their own pace, often stopping to take photos of the river and downtown. It’s a very pleasant place for a walk.

From spirituals to hip hop, the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) traces the evolution and impact of Black music in America. The 56,000-square-foot space is full of interactive exhibits that let visitors hear a huge range of songs and see how artists across generations and genres collaborated and influenced each other to create some of the best songs ever written.

Visitors can curate their own playlist of songs they like by scanning personalized bracelets as they move through the exhibits. They can also make their own beats and sing along with a gospel choir. In addition to the interactive elements, NMAAM has lots of memorabilia ranging from early hymnals and songbooks to costumes and platinum records.

Once the center of the city’s printing industry (hence the name), Printers Alley is a National Historic District. But, more importantly for visitors, it’s a center of nightlife in the heart of downtown.

With nightclubs, karaoke joints, bars, and places for live music, Printers Alley is a fun place for a night out. Check out Bourbon Street Blues & Boogie Bar for blues music and a Hurricane or grab a bite to eat at Skull’s Rainbow Room.

The donuts at Five Daughters Bakery are the best I’ve ever had. Ever.

With three locations, this family-run bakery makes a variety of donuts. There are traditional yeast donuts and vegan and paleo options. But what they’re known for is their 100-layer donut–the combination of a donut and croissant is rolled in sugar, filled with cream, and glazed. I’m head-over-heels for the maple glazed donut. SO. GOOD.

The Five Points Alley Shops are a hub of creativity. This collection of small businesses in one shopping center makes it easy to see lots of unique offerings in one spot. See the treasures at the unconventional fine jewelry store Riveter or browse used, rare, and out-of-print books at Defunct Books . See artistic exhibitions at Raven & Whale Gallery or shop for amazing vintage cowgirl boots and other stylish finds at Goodbuy Girls.

Belmont Mansion was the antebellum summer estate of Adelicia Acklen, who was the wealthiest woman in Tennessee in the mid-1800s. Once in the countryside, the home is now right in the heart of the city on the campus of Belmont University.

The house is sumptuously furnished in period pieces, including Roman sculptures, gifts from a US President, and treasures brought back from a Grand Tour of Europe. A visit to Belmont Mansion is a look at the luxuriant lifestyle of a family who seemingly sailed through the Civil War with little repercussion, which was uncommon in the South. Unfortunately, due to the lack of record keeping at the time, information about the enslaved workers who built that fortune is scant, which means visitors only get a part of the story. But an opulent story it is.

Just a half-hour from downtown, a visit to Arrington Vineyards is one of the fun things to do near Nashville. On weekends and nice days, it seems like the whole property is full of families and groups of friends having picnics, playing games, and drinking wine from Arrington.

With about 20 reds, whites, and dessert wines to choose from, the vineyard offers tastings and bottles for sale. There is frequent live music and a rotating list of food trucks on Fridays.

The Frist Art Museum is unique in that it doesn’t have a permanent collection. Instead, it showcases the work of artists from across Tennessee, the US, and the world in rotating exhibits. The museum has featured everything from art from the American West to the best works of Picasso.

The Frist is also the home of the Martin ArtQuest Gallery which allows guests of all ages to create art at 30 interactive stations and features regular classes and educational programs.

The Johnny Cash Museum is dedicated to the life and music career of the country legend. In this small space, you can listen to a retrospective of Cash’s music through the years and see exhibits like his costumes, instruments, photos, and handwritten lyrics. Personal items like his high school yearbook and his marriage certificate with June Carter Cash are also on display.

One of the more unexpected items is a stone wall that was part of Cash’s home before it burned down in 2007. The museum is well-done and interesting, but with a $26 admission fee, the Johnny Cash Museum may be best reserved for Cash’s most enthusiastic fans.

Next door, you’ll find Johnny Cash’s Bar & BBQ. Each of the two floors of this Southern restaurant has a stage for live music and a bar, so you can eat pulled pork and mashed potatoes, sip whiskey, and listen to some of the city’s best music all at once.

Open year-round, Nashville Farmers Market is home to a variety of not only farmers but artisans, restaurateurs, crafters, and more. Since it began in the early 1800s, the market has been a bustling place and a must see in Nashville.

The Farmers Market covered farm sheds host up to 100 farmers–depending on the season–along with dairies, cheese-makers, and others selling their products. Inside the market are 20 restaurants and shops. Whether you’re looking for gourmet pizza, Jamaican specialties, or anything in between, you’re likely to find it here.

The Civil Rights Room on the second floor of the Nashville Public Library focuses on the protests against Jim Crow laws that took place in the city. Visitors can read about activists’ efforts to end segregation and can sit at a symbolic lunch counter of the kind occupied by protesters in 1960. Reproductions of the arrest records of future Congressman John Lewis, who played a leading role in the sit-ins, are also in display.

In West Nashville, L&L Market is a fun place for a little shopping and a lot of eating. There’s great coffee at Honest Coffee Roasters, over-the-top milkshakes at Gracie’s Milkshake Bar, and charcuterie on a cool conveyor belt at Culture & Co.

If you need a break from eating, browse around for jewelry, home furnishings, and gifts.

L&L Market is great any time, but it’s a particularly nice place to go in Nashville when it’s raining or cold because there’s so much to choose from.

At this speakeasy on Division Street, a floor-length, velvet curtain separates the entryway from the main bar. It’s the first sign that the Patterson House is a kind of cool you don’t experience many places. To get in, there must be a seat for you. No seat, no drink. It all contributes to the upscale but relaxed environment where the bartenders will engage with you at length before recommending one of their custom-crafted cocktails.

In addition to the drinks, you’ll also find a menu featuring delicious bites like shrimp corn dogs, fried brie, and fried chicken po’ boy sliders. It gets busy here, so show up near opening or closing time if you don’t want to wait. It’s worth it to see this institution when you visit Nashville.

At more than 3100 acres, the Edwin and Percy Warner Parks—collectively known as “The Warner Parks”—are where to go in Nashville for getting some fresh air not far from downtown. Go for a hike, take a picnic, take advantage of the golf course, or challenge yourself on the massive staircase that welcomes visitors to Percy Warner Park.

The Gaylord Opryland is like an indoor city. With more than 15 restaurants and bars, 2800+ rooms, and lots of shops and other features, I’m embarrassed to say how many times we got lost during our stay here.

If you’re looking for an easy-to-manage adventure with everything you need in one spot, this is it. Take a boat ride through the hotel, watch a radio broadcast in the on-site studio, or check out their water park called Soundwaves where you can slide, swim, or float the lazy river. The choices for things to see and do here are insane.

A visit to the Gaylord is a must do in Nashville at Christmas . From decorations to ice sculptures to indoor snow tubing, all the wintery things are available here.

The Hermitage plantation was the home of Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States, and his family from 1804 until his death in 1845. The 1100-acre property includes the mansion and garden (including a tomb), former cotton fields, and several 19th-century cabins that housed enslaved people.

One of the more historical things to do in Nashville, a tour of the Hermitage’s museum and grounds paints a picture of a popular but complicated president with a fiery personality and provides information about the lives of the enslaved people on the plantation. Guides inside the mansion provide commentary about life in the house and are proud to point out that the Hermitage is the most accurately-preserved of the early Presidents’ homes .

Diskin Cider is Nashville’s first (and only!) craft cidery. Using fresh pressed apples, they make a range of cider flavors ranging from traditional dry to hopped to fruit flavors and even fruit tea. Our favorites were the semi-sweet and the seasonal cinnamon flavor.

The key to Diskin Cider’s product line is that none of the ciders is overly sweet—there’s no sugar or anything artificial added. Plus, they’re gluten free.

There are about 10 ciders on the menu at the tasting room , plus a couple of beers and lots of cocktail choices (some incorporating the ciders). Food offerings include a cheese board, salads, grilled flatbreads, and a burger.

Located in the historic Melrose theater, Sinema is an upscale restaurant with a distinctive theme. The moment you enter, you see a movie playing in the bar, the staircase leading to the mezzanine, and walls lined with throwback photos of the stars from the ‘40s and ‘50s—the Melrose’s heyday.

Sinema’s eclectic American menu and unique setting make it a popular special occasion restaurant, but it’s also great for people looking for something a little different from the downtown hotspots. The food is delicious, and the setting is packed with nostalgia.

You certainly don’t have to be a country music fan to appreciate the Country Music Hall of Fame , but a visit here is one of the quintessential best things to do in Nashville. One of the world’s largest museums, it is home to 2.5 million artifacts, including recordings, photos, instruments, and so many other things.

Just the collection and variety of cowboy boots and clothes alone is kind of mind-blowing. There are also larger, one-of-a-kind items like Elvis’ “Solid Gold” Cadillac painted with crushed diamonds and fish scales.

The Country Music Hall of Fame makes an effort to pay tribute to county music’s heritage while also having a focus on contemporary and even cross-over artists. While there is a permanent collection, some of the exhibits rotate.

A cute cafe in East Nashville, Game Point Cafe is fun whether or not you’re into the 400+ games they offer. There is a sizable food menu in addition to lots of coffee and select beer offerings, and there’s lots of space for people to work, chat, or chill out.

Unlike many game-focused cafes, Game Point Cafe doesn’t charge an entry or playing fee. They offer game coaches on weekday evenings and weekends and host regular events. The whole environment is laid-back and designed to encourage fun. If you’re in the area, don’t miss it.

Near Vanderbilt and Belmont Universities, Hillsboro Village is a neighborhood filled with boutiques and restaurants to explore. Punctuated by fun works of street art, you’ll find favorites like Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, Impeccable Pig, and Rebecca James Clothing here. Bonus: If Biscuit Love restaurant is on your list and you don’t wait to wait at the Gulch location, you might find a shorter line at the Hillsboro Village location.

Where to Stay The Hermitage Hotel : Historic elegance Omni Nashville : Music at your doorstep Gaylord Opryland Hotel : Resort complex with endless options See our full guide to the best downtown Nashville hotels . Where to Eat Husk : A celebration of Southern ingredients The Southern Steak & Oyster : Seafood, steak, and locally-grown produce Josephine : Regularly-changing menu of the best produce and meats available daily Check out other choices for great restaurants in Nashville .

Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.

In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.

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Friday 29th of October 2021

Some things we missed

Sara Albert

Friday 20th of August 2021

Been to Nashville 8 times but still haven't seen it all. I'm a huge country music fan & it's my #1 place to visit.

Bryson Fico

Thursday 4th of March 2021

I couldn't ask for a more detailed guide to Nashville, TN. You hit everything a visitor could want to know and do. I will bookmark and share your blog for sure.

Laura Longwell

Thanks! So glad you found it helpful. It's a great city.

Elaine Marble

Wednesday 12th of February 2020

Planning a trip in Sept. Thanks for great ideas!!

Puja Sheth Sheth

Sunday 9th of February 2020

Thank so much for this great list! I got a lot of great ideas. Keep at it! :)

38 Things to Do in Nashville for First Timers (with hidden gems)

By: Author Aly Smalls

Posted on Published: November 1, 2022  - Last updated: September 22, 2023

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Although Nashville is the bachelorette capital of the USA and known for the birth country music, after spending a week here, I learned that it’s SO much more than that. 

History, hospitality, food, all genres of music…the energy here is unmatched.

Here are the top things to do in Nashville, Tennessee, especially if you’re a first time visitor.

This list includes the main attractions as well as a few hidden gems, and nothing that’s not worth seeing.

Because I don’t want to waste your time by listing absolutely everything possible you can do in Nashville (hint, there’s too much).

These are only the places, sights, experiences and activities that are worth your valuable time in Nashville.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase I may make a small commission. I only share information about things I know, love and trust!

Lower Broadway Honky Tonks

Nicknamed the honky tonk highway, in downtown Nashville you’ll find Lower Broadway, home of the honky tonks and the best place for nightlife.

This street full of live music is probably the number one attraction in Nashville.

Along 6 blocks you’ll find over 40 bars, and they all have live music every day!

It’s not just nightlife here, the music runs from 10am to 3am everyday.

Some of these bars are even 2 or 3 stories high with a different band or musician on each floor.

The live music is free, but tips are encouraged and appreciated.

And don’t miss checking out the side streets.

For example, the Wildhorse Saloon has the largest dance floor downtown and offers free line dancing.

Doc Holiday’s Bar

Pay a visit to Doc Holiday’s Bar and add your name to a dollar bill and put it up anywhere in the bar. The entire place is covered in money.

It’s also the only bar left in downtown Nashville where you can smoke.

Printer’s Alley 

Printer’s Alley is a hidden gem that a lot of tourists miss. You’ll find it on church street between 3rd and 4th ave.

The narrow alley and all the lights and neon signs make this a magical spot.

It’s a little more lowkey than Broadway where you’ll find a little less country music and little more blues and jazz music. 

But beyond that, there’s so much history here.

During prohibition, the various print shops here turned into speakeasies which blossomed into an underground bar scene and the reason why you’ll find quaint bars and pubs still there today. 

Rascal Flatts and Gretchen Wilson were discovered at venues in Printers Alley. 

Fun fact: Toby Keith recorded “I love this bar” at Lonnie’s in Printers Alley.

The Arcade is a historic shopping area in Nashville with Diagon Alley vibes!

It’s a hidden gem that everyone misses because it’s tucked away 2 blocks behind Broadway between 4th and 5th Avenues.

It was Nashville’s first enclosed shopping district, opened in 1902.

Ryman Auditorium

The Ryman Auditorium is known as the mother church of country music and the birthplace of bluegrass and where the Grand Ole Opry was born.

Legends that have performed here include Elvis Presley, Patsy Cline and Hank Williams.

It’s also where June Carter first met Johnny Cash.

While the grand ole opry has since moved locations, you can still buy tickets for live concerts as well as take a tour of this historic building.

View tour info here.

Ryman Alley

And while you’re there, walk down Ryman Alley, where you can literally walk in the footsteps of country music legends.

Performers would use the back door of the Ryman Auditorium to sneak through the back alley to tootsie’s orchid lounge for a drink after their shows.

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is arguably the most famous honky tonk on Broadway, and you can’t miss the bright purple colored building.

It’s where Willie Nelson got his first songwriting job after performing here.

The most famous patrons who frequented here were Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, and since I’m Canadian, a plug for Terri Clark who got her start here.

Grand Ole Opry

You definitely need to enjoy a night at the Grand Ole Opry, which is not only a concert, but a live radio show that’s been running since 1925.

It’s the longest running radio broadcast in US history.

It’s known as the show that made country music famous.

Each Opry show features live performances by 8 or more artists that range from country music legends, up and coming artists and legendary songwriters.

On this night we saw Terri Clark and Jon Pardi perform among others!

You can also tour the building, learn about the history and go backstage if you didn’t manage to get concert tickets. 

There are two ways for you to enjoy the Grand Ole Opry! The first one is to buy Grand Ole Opry Show Ticket . Another one is to take this Grand Ole Opry Admission with Post-Show Backstage Tour . Choose the best one for you and enjoy the time spent there!

Gaylord Opryland Hotel and Conservatory

The Gaylord Opryland Hotel is the largest non-casino resort in the United States.

Not only is the hotel impressive, inside you’ll find a massive indoor garden and conservatory complete with a boat ride and waterfalls.

They also have stores and restaurants inside to complete your visit if you’re not an overnight guest.

Johnny Cash Museum

If you’re a fan of the man in black, the Johnny Cash Museum is a must see in Nashville.

It’s small, but packed with history and all kinds of items from his personal and professional life. 

Combine it with a meal at Sun Diner

For an exceptional breakfast or lunch before or after your visit, try out Sun Diner next door.

It pays homage to Sun Records’ legendary artists, including Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash.

I may have ordered the crème Brule French toast more than once which is cinnamon bread dunked in a Rumchata batter.

Ernest Tubb Record Shop

Opened in 1947, this is the ultimate record shop where you’ll find almost every piece of country and bluegrass music. 

Country Music Hall of Fame

The country music hall of fame takes you through the origin of country music and bluegrass music all the way to current country rock stars.

This museum is massive and provides an in depth look at the most celebrated genre of music here in Nashville.

After exploring the exhibits, you can also take the Historic RCA Studio B tour.

Historic RCA Studio B

RCA Studio B is the famous recording studio which gave birth to the Nashville sound.

Many famous artists record here including Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, Dolly Parton and many other legends.

Tip: save money and buy the combined Country Music Hall of Fame and RCA Studio B Tour ticket combo

Hatch Show Print

Hatch Show Print is the original letter press and poster print shop in Nashville, operating since the 1800s (and still going today).

On a tour here you’ll see the printmaking process in action, view iconic posters they’ve made for country music legends, as well as a chance to design and make your own print.

National Museum of African American Music

According to their website , the National Museum of African American Music is: “the only museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating the many music genres created, influenced, and inspired by African Americans.”

This is a brand new museum in Nashville and a must visit for any music fan.

Old Town Trolley Tour

One thing I really enjoyed was taking the Old Town Trolley tour of some of Nashville’s biggest attractions.

It’s a hop on hop off style sightseeing tour full of all kinds of fun facts and history from your driver who narrates the whole way.

I recommend this for first time visitors and early on in your trip to get the lay of the land.

There’s 13 stops so you can see many different parts of the city and you can ride as many times all day.

Many of the Nashville attractions listed within this post are accessible from stops on the Trolley Tour. 

View trolley tour prices & info here .

Bluebird Café

The Bluebird Café is one of the most iconic spots for live music in Nashville – you might recognize it from the famous show of the same name.

Established in the early 1980s, this small venue features up-and-coming as well as hit songwriters in an intimate setting.

The vibe here is a listening room where the songs and the stories are the stars of the show.

It was here that I really came to appreciate how respected the songwriting community in Nashville is.

You might recognize some country stars that were discovered here, including Keith urban, Garth Brooks and Taylor Swift.

General Jackson Showboat Dinner Cruise

Cruise the historic Cumberland River on one of the country’s largest paddle-wheel boats, the General Jackson.

Enjoy the Nashville scenery from a different angle and catch the sunset if you do the dinner cruise and indulge in a home cooked southern meal on board.

After dinner, sip drinks and listen to live music from the boat decks.

This is another highly rated experience in Nashville. 

View tour prices and info here.

Tour the Homes of the Stars

Did you know there are tons of famous country stars and musicians that call Nashville their home?

On this comfortable bus sightseeing tour you’ll pass by some of the most beautiful neighborhoods and homes of past and present Nashvillians, including Dolly Parton, Taylor Swift, Reese Witherspoon, Garth Brooks and many more. 

Even if you’re not a fan of the rich and famous, this tour provides an in depth tour of some of Nashville’s most varied neighborhoods that most tourists miss. 

Cowboy Boot Shopping

Now, a lot of locals will tell you that the way they can spot tourists is those who wear cowboy boots and hats.

Because of this I was almost not going to bring my boots, but I’m so glad I did.

I ended up wearing them every single day – because I was tourist and so was everyone else who were rocking their boots.

And there’s no shame in that.

One of my favorite things to do was to go boot shopping and check out all the different and outrageous designs (and price tags) among the fresh leather smell.

Line Dancing Class

If you’re in Nashville, there’s no way you’re leaving this town without hitting a dance floor and joining in on a line dance!

If you need a little help or want to brush up on your moves, you can take part in a one hour line dancing crash course.

This is a really fun activity if you’re in town with some friends for a bachelorette or a birthday party.

Check out line dancing lessons here . 

Tip – you can also learn to line dance for free at the Whiskey Saloon, just off Broadway where they offer line dancing lessons almost every night of the week on downtown’s largest dancefloor.

AA Foot Spa

After a couple days of walking around town in your cowboy boots, this place is much needed.

This one is a major hidden gem in Nashville, it’s called AA Foot Spa, and it came recommended to us from a friend who regularly works the country music awards.

It was $40 for the most heavenly foot massage I’ve ever had. It’s a good 20 minutes south of downtown but well worth the drive or Uber ride.

You can find it at 224 Thompson Ln #B.

East Nashville

East Nashville is across the Cumberland River and offers a really different vibe from the honky tonk country music atmosphere in downtown Nashville.

One of my favorite ways to tour this neighborhood was by going on the Brew Hop Brewery Trolley Tour.

It’s a hop on hop off trolley bus that takes you to 7 different breweries. 

View prices & info for the Brewery Tour here .

Go Mural Exploring

Nashville’s art scene was one of the biggest surprises about visiting this city.

I knew it had a few famous murals, but I didn’t realize you can find them on almost every corner it seems.

If you’re looking for a fun and free activity in Nashville, plan a day or an afternoon with your camera and go mural hopping.

If you don’t have a car, there are some fun guided mural tours you can join, like this one that brings you around in a golf cart .

Try Hot Chicken 

While some Nashville locals will tell you to visit Prince’s Hot Chicken, others will tell you to visit Hattie B’s.

Either way, you must try Nashville’s most famous food while you’re here – hot chicken.

We tried Hattie B’s where they’ve got different heat levels ranging from mild to shut the cluck up.

I went for the classic bone-in which is the most traditional way to get hot chicken and went for medium which had a bit of kick but not over the top.

Goo Goo Chocolate Co.

Goo Goo Chocolate Co. was the first company to make a combination chocolate bar in the USA.

If you love chocolate and want a taste of history, stop in for a goo goo cluster.

White Limozeen (Dolly Parton’s Bar)

A unique place to have some drinks and small bites (especially if you’re on a girls trip) is White Limozeen, which is Dolly Parton’s bar.

Everything is pretty in pink. In the summer there’s also the rooftop patio with a pool.

You can find it at the top of the Graduate Hotel in midtown which is about 10 minutes west of downtown.

A visit to White Limozeen is only 1 of 16 unique things to do in Nashville on your Bachelorette party !

Hermitage Hotel

The Hermitage is an upscale, swanky hotel that’s been in downtown Nashville since 1910.

But the most interesting thing about them are the fancy bathrooms, decorated in art deco style. Stop in and ask to see them.

Belle Meade Plantation and Historic Site

The Belle Meade Plantation dates back to the 1840s but was no ordinary plantation.

Here, they bred thoroughbred race horses, where famous bloodlines originated from including Seabiscuit.

There are a few different tours onsite – we chose to tour the mansion, which doesn’t allow photos or video inside, but I can assure you it was fascinating.

But the best part is that there’s a winery onsite, and you can tour the grounds with a glass of wine.  View tour info and prices here.

The Parthenon

Nashville has a full scale replica of the Parthenon, which has earned this city the nickname, Athens of the South.

Inside, you’ll find beautiful art galleries.

Tip – this is included as a stop on the Old Town Trolley tour.

12 South Neighborhood

The 12 South neighborhood was one of my favorite areas to visit, home to locally owned shops and restaurants, vintage stores and of course more murals.  

The Gulch 

Closer to downtown is the Gulch – a higher end neighborhood with boutique shops, famous murals and great eateries.

You’ll find Biscuit Love which is very famous, and also Milk & Honey which was our go-to breakfast spot more than once.

But it’s very popular – sometimes there was a 2 hour wait!

We got lucky and got first come first serve bar seating both times. 

Tip: book a golf cart neighborhood shopping tour and hit all the hot spots without having to walk. 

Frist Art Museum

The Frist Art Museum is home to some of the most prestigious art exhibits in the country and the rotating exhibits are exceptional.

But not only that, the building itself is historically significant. Built in 1934, his building was originally Nashville’s main post office.

Marathon Motor Works

Marathon Motor Works is a former automobile plant that’s been resurrected into a district full of shops, restaurants, distilleries, wineries,  recording studios and more.

The old brick building is unique and is one of the most popular stops on the Old Town Trolley tour.

Belmont Mansion 

The Belmont Mansion is an ornate Italian-style villa that almost reminds one of a mini-Versailles.

It’s been beautifully preserved and it’s not far from downtown.

If you don’t have much time to get out of the city to see other mansions from the 1800s, this one is a great choice.

Jack Daniels Distillery

It doesn’t get more Nashville than this – take a tour of Tennessee Whiskey at the Jack Daniel’s distillery.

It’s about 1.5 hours from Nashville (in Lynchburg), so the easiest way to enjoy the tour and tasting is to join this day trip bus tour.

Visiting the Jack Daniel’s Distillery is one of the best and highest rated day trips from Nashville, and I definitely recommend making time to do this one.

View tour prices & info here.

Arrington Vineyards

If you’re in need of some stunning scenery and a glass of wine, Arrington Vineyards will take your breath away.

With picnic areas and live music throughout the summer months, this place is more than just your typical wine tasting experience. 

🍷 Book your transportation to the Arrington Vineyard

Visit award-winning winery with this Arrington Vineyard Winery Round-Trip Shuttle Transportation from Nashville . Luxury round-trip transportation from Nashville will take you right to the Arrington Vineyards Winery!

Wille Nelson and Friends Museum 

This place is a quirky little museum combined with a massive gift and souvenir shop.

Buy your admission tickets online to save a little money.

Catio Cat Lounge

The Catio Cat Lounge is a rescue agency that houses cats until they get adopted.

Until then, visitors are able to book a one hour session (for $12) to play and snuggle with the cats and kittens in their cat café. Check out their website for more info.

Where we Stayed in Nashville (first timers)

Since we were in Nashville for 8 days, we wanted to stay in two different hotels.

We stayed at the Graduate Nashville (fancy) which is the perfect place for a girls trip because it’s home to White Limozeen – Dolly Parton’s all-pink rooftop bar!

We also stayed at Element Nashville Vanderbilt West End (budget).

We liked it because it was low cost, brand new and only a 10-minute drive to downtown/Broadway.

Each of these hotels worked really well for us even though we didn’t have a car.

We just used Uber everywhere and it was easy!

If you’re coming to Nashville on a girls trip, here are the Best Hotels in Nashville for a Bachelorette Party

Touring more of Tennessee?

Read my list of 11 Unique Places to Stay in Tennessee (that you can actually afford)!

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Home » North America » Nashville

11 BEST Places to Visit in Nashville (2024)

Nashville is known for its electric atmosphere, and it’s little surprise that country singers and wannabe stars have been making a pilgrimage to the city since the early 20th century. Thankfully, it has lost none of that magic and the city is continuing to grow, especially when it comes to tourism! Obviously, the main attraction is the music, but there’s more to Nashville than that. A thriving food scene, great nightlife, and plenty of cultural attractions mean that the capital of Tennessee is the place to be!

In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the best places to visit in Nashville. We hope that you’ll find the list informative and helpful and you’ll find it easier to plan your break after reading our list. First though, let’s take a look at where to stay in Nashville!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Nashville:

These are the best places to visit in nashville, faq on the best places to visit in nashville.

Located west of the city centre is the bustling Midtown neighbourhood. Home to Vanderbilt University and a thriving student population, Midtown is known for hosting some of the most exciting and fun nightlife in the city. It is where you’ll find a myriad of great bars, pubs and clubs offering up music, drinks, dancing and fun for travellers of all ages and styles.

• Enjoy a rowdy night at Rebar.
• Explore the grounds of Vanderbilt University.
• Spend a night at the Patterson House, an old-speakeasy with an upscale twist.

Although Midtown is great, there’s a whole lot more in Nashville when it comes to awesome areas to explore! Be sure to check out where to stay in Nashville before diving into the fun below.

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#1 – Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum – One of the most amazing places in Nashville

• One of the world’s largest museums and research centres
• Dedicated to the preservation of American country music
• One of the major hotspots in Nashville

Why it’s awesome: Many Nashville tourists come here for the music. It’s one of the largest museums in the world with over 2.5 million artefacts. That’s pretty awesome, even if country music isn’t your jam! The country music hall of fame inducted its first members in 1961 (some useful pub quiz information – they were Hank Williams, Fred Rose, and Jimmie Rodgers). Each year 3 new members are added, and at the time of writing, there are 139! Some of the most famous include Johnny Cash, Glen Campbell, and Emmylou Harris.

What to do there: As you’d expect from one of the world’s largest museums, there’s more here than just the Country Music Hall of Fame. You can also visit the gallery and there’s even a digital archive of the photos in it. There are also several rotating exhibitions, which showcase the work of current country artists too, so it’s a great way to get some ideas for what to download on Spotify for your onward journey. There are three restaurants on-site too, so if you get hungry you don’t have to leave the museum! This really is one of the top attractions in Nashville.

#2 – Centennial Park and the Parthenon – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Nashville

• Check out a full sized replica of one of the most important monuments in Ancient Greece!
• One of the most recognisable landmarks in Nashville
• Find some peace and quiet in the park

Why it’s awesome: Centennial Park is a favourite park of both tourists and locals alike. This is in no small part due to the full sized Replica of the Greek Parthenon based there. This recreation isn’t quite as old though, having been created in 1897 for Tennessee’s Centennial Exposition. The Parthenon is not just for show though, it’s one of the top art museums in the city, with a permanent collection of American artworks from the 19 th and 20 th centuries!

What to do there: Of course, you can’t go to Centennial Park without checking out the Parthenon. And you’ll want to enter as there’s not only an art museum but a full size Athena statue too – another recreation from Athens. When you’ve seen everything there is to see at the Parthenon, take a walk around the park. It’s the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of Nashville. Take a book or a picnic and spend a day in the sun by Lake Watuga!

With a Nashville City Pass , you can experience the best of Nashville at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#3 – The Hermitage

• Visit the former mansion of a US President
• Constantly changing exhibits keep the museum exciting
• One of the major points of interest for history in Nashville

Why it’s awesome: Not to be confused with our best luxury hotel in Nashville (The Hermitage Hotel), the Hermitage is actually a history museum! It’s the former home of the 7 th President of the United States, Andrew Jackson, and it’s dedicated to the life of the People’s President. Jackson ruled from 1829 – 1837 and was a veteran of both the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. He aimed to represent and protect the common man, which may explain where his nickname comes from!

What to do there: Andrew Jackson was known for welcoming people into his home during his lifetime, and that tradition still continues today! Enter his old mansion to see exhibits which tell you more about the man’s life and what life was like in the early 19 th century. If you want a really memorable experience, there are a range of tours you can take. A self-guided audio tour is great for learning the facts, but to make the experience come alive why not consider a Hermitage by wagon tour? This will take you all around the plantation and you’ll also learn about the lives of enslaved people here too.

#4 – Belle Meade Plantation – An awesome place to visit in Nashville for half a day

• Visit the “Queen of Tennessee Plantations”
• One of the most renowned stud farms in the US
• One of the best places in Nashville for a day out

Why it’s awesome: The Parthenon isn’t the only Greek-influenced attraction in Nashville. No, the Belle Meade Plantation is centred around a Greek revival mansion! But there’s so much more to it than that. Indeed, many famous racehorses can trace their lineage (well their owners can) back to this plantation, including Sea Biscuit and War Admiral. That’s because it’s one of the most renowned stud farms in the entire United States! The farm is also well known for its hospitality and has hosted 5 US Presidents.

What to do there: Although the plantation is now known for more positive reasons, it’s impossible to ignore that slavery is part of its history too. A Journey to Jubilee showcases the 100-year journey of an enslaved family to freedom throughout the 20 th century. There are other tours you can enjoy here, including a mansion tour with wine tasting. If you prefer something a little stronger, there’s a Bourbon tasting room complete with comfortable leather chairs and an ice house!

#5 – The Ryman Auditorium

• See where Aretha Franklin and Charlie Chaplin have performed
• A great place to catch a gig
• A Nashville must see

Why it’s awesome: Dating back to the late 19 th century, this building is the work of Thomas G. Ryman. Although initially, it wasn’t for the purpose that it’s used for today or has been for the last few decades! No, he was converted to Christianity by Reverend Sam Jones, a popular evangelist at the time. So, the Ryman Auditorium was constructed to be a tabernacle! It was the largest structure in the area at the time, and has been used for political rallies as well as entertainment events and concerts!

What to do there: A trip to this award-winning music and event venue should be high up on your Nashville itinerary. Check out the events calendar to see if any of your favourite artists or performances or coming up while you’re in town! If not, don’t fret, you can still enjoy the magic of the Ryman Auditorium as guided tours are offered on a daily basis between 9am and 4pm. If you’re planning on popping the question, you can even arrange a special tour to make it as romantic as possible. Pretty cool, right?!

#6 – The Grand Ole Opry

• See a live recording of the world’s longest-running radio show
• Enjoy live country music performances
• One of the top Nashville vacation ideas for music lovers

Why it’s awesome: Formerly hosted at the Ryman Auditorium, the Grand Ole Opry is another of the top attractions in Nashville that you can’t miss off your itinerary. The world’s longest-running radio show dates all the way back to 1925 – that’s 94 years! It hasn’t remained so popular for so long without good reason though. The Grand Ole Opry is actually credited with bringing country music into the American mainstream and is still uncovering and promoting the hottest country music stars of today!

What to do there: If you’re in town on a Tuesday, Friday, or Saturday, then we definitely recommend catching a live recording of this incredible show. Each night, there are at least 8 live performers so you’re sure to find someone who could become one of your new favourite artists! Really big country music fans will be happy to know that VIP tours mean you can actually be on stage when the big red curtain rises. However, even if you’re not a country fan, this is a highly recommended activity!

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#7 – Broadway – A great place in Nashville to visit at night

• Enjoy the honky tonk Tootsie’s World Famous Orchid Lounge
• One of the nightlife hotspots in Nashville
• Indulge in soul, jazz, and of course country as you barhop!

Why it’s awesome: Broadway is probably the coolest hotspot in Nashville. It’s a great place for shopping and dining during the day, but it’s at night this place really comes alive. Lower Broadway is known for its honkytonk performances and live country music (who’d have thought it, yet another spot for music lovers?!) The most famous of them all is Tootsie’s World Famous Orchid Lounge, which blasts honky tonk 10am till the early hours of the morning. The atmosphere here simply has to be experienced to be believed!

What to do there: If you’re heading to Broadway during the day, do enjoy the honkytonk music and perhaps stop for a coffee or the Tennessee staple of fried chicken or biscuits and gravy. After all, Broadway does boast some of the best places to eat in Nashville! Broadway is also known as the Honkytonk Highway, and some of the bars here have live music going all through the day. The perfect backdrop to a tasty meal!

#8 – Adventure Science Center – A fascinating educational place to visit in Nashville

• Be amazed on the onsite planetarium
• Fun for the entire family
• One of the coolest museum attractions in Nashville

Why it’s awesome: This cool and independent museum has been open since the end of the Second World War. Its mission is to give a dynamic and innovative learning experience to get people of all ages interested in science and how it affects our daily lives. Not only is the inside of the museum extremely impressive, but the views from outside are too. That’s because the museum is perched atop a hill overlooking the city! It’s one of the best places in Nashville for a day out, no matter how old you are!

What to do there: There are over 175 exhibits over 44,000 square feet of space, so there’s no shortage of things to do. Whether it’s biology, physics, or chemistry that interests you, you’re sure to find an exhibit for you! Not only are there exhibits, but there are also live demonstrations which are pretty cool and workshops where you can get involved in experiments yourself! We definitely recommend stopping off at the Planetarium which is home to a wide range of programs and laser shows!

#9 – Warner Parks – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Nashville

• Nashville vacation ideas for hikers and bikers!
• Tee off for a game of golf
• One of the largest municipal parks in the country

Why it’s awesome: These are a little bit of a trek out of the city centre, 9 miles away in fact, but you’ll certainly find that journey worth it, especially if you enjoy the great outdoors! That’s because Percy and Edwin Warner Parks combine to make one of the largest municipal green spaces in the entire United States. They’re set over 3,100 acres, so if you’re on your own you’ll be able to find a spot all to yourself. However, if you’re in a big group and you’re looking to start a sports game, then you can do that too!

What to do there: In such a huge green space, there are plenty of opportunities to take part in some cool activities. The parks are criss-crossed by paths which can be used for walking or cycling and getting some fresh air. If you fancy a bit of horse-riding while in Music City, then you’re in luck. There are over 10km of equestrian trails to take advantage of. The Warner Parks are definitely one of the best places in Nashville if you’re looking to get outdoors and active!

#10 – Nashville Farmers’ Market – A must-see for foodies

• See chef’s demoing their delicious recipes
• Try artisanal and fresh foods
• Find some of the best places to eat in Nashville

Why it’s awesome: Open all year round, the Farmers’ Market is a great opportunity to not only sample some of the most delicious food in Tennessee but to support the local and regional economy. The open-air market is home to more than 150 stalls where farmers, artisans, and small businesses sell their foods and wares. You’ll find fruit and veg stores, butchers, bakeries, everything you could think of under one roof. And each season offers a different character to the market!

What to do there: You can easily spend half a day strolling around the stores of one of the top attractions in Nashville, sampling the tasters and perhaps settling down at one of the best places to eat in Nashville! On the third Friday of each month, the Farmers’ Market tries something different. In true Southeast Asian style, it becomes a night market from 5 – 9pm, lending an exciting atmosphere that is a little more magical than in the daytime! If you’re visiting Nashville when the night market is on, don’t miss one of the coolest events in town!

If you really love food, you might want to consider taking a food tour in Nashville to sample all the local favourites.

Short on time and want to see as much as possible? Check out our sample  itinerary for Nashville  before visiting!

#11 – Tennessee Central Railway Museum

• Ride a historic Tennessee passenger train
• Learn about America’s railroads from a not for profit organisation
• One of the coolest historic attractions in Nashville

Why it’s awesome: Like the Adventure Science Center, the Tennessee Central Railway Museum offers a dynamic and entertaining experience. Rather than just walking around, looking at artefacts, and reading their explanation, you can really get involved here! In fact, you can ride a classic vintage 1950’s train through the beautiful and picturesque landscape of Middle Tennessee. Surely, that’s an activity not to be missed for children and adults alike!

What to do there: You can’t visit the Tennessee Central Railway Museum without taking part in its coolest activity: riding the vintage train! However, you can also see a collection of trains, carriages, freight cars, and locomotives that have been lovingly preserved over the years by volunteers. If you visit on a Saturday, you may even be able to have a chat with one of the volunteers and find out more about what it’s like to work with the museum!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Nashville

What should you not miss when visiting Nashville?

No trip to Nashville would be complete without taking a trip to Broadway at night.

What is the most fun place to visit in Nashville?

The Adventure Science Center is a fascinating and fun place to visit in Nashville that the whole family will enjoy.

What is a free place to visit in Nashville?

Warner Parks is a great place to enjoy some hiking and be outdoors in nature.

Is 4 days enough to spend in Nashville?

Yes, four days should be plenty of time to see the main highlights.

Final Thoughts

So, that concludes our list of the best places to visit in Nashville. We hope that you’ve found it useful and informative, and it’s given you a few ideas of cool activities that aren’t just centred around country music! You also might have a better idea of the coolest neighbourhoods in town, meaning you’ll be able to pick a suitable place to stay.

Whatever you want from a city break, you’re sure to find it in Nashville. Bubbling culture, great bars with live music, and fascinating museums are on the opposite street corner from relaxing green spaces where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city!

We hope that after reading our guide that you see not only some of the best places to visit in Nashville but get some idea of how to live like a local! So, with all that in mind, we just need to wish you a fantastic vacation in Nashville. Have a great time!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Downtown Nashville

Top things to do in downtown nashville.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Downtown Nashville
• Green Hills
• Historic Edgefield
• Bellmont/Hillsboro
• Bordeaux Area
• Hillsboro West End
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Kids
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Ryman Auditorium

2. Downtown Nashville

3. Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum

4. National Museum of African American Music

5. The District

6. Tennessee Performing Arts Center

7. Nashville Public Library

8. Tennessee State Capitol

9. Printer's Alley

10. Nashville Convention and Visitor's Bureau

11. The Escape Game Nashville (Downtown)

12. Assembly Food Hall

13. Nashville Repertory Theatre

14. St Mary's of the Seven Sorrow Catholic Church

15. Robert's Western World

16. Nashville War Memorial Auditorium

17. Escape Experience

18. Nashville Convention Center

19. The Stage on Broadway

20. Downtown Presbyterian Church

21. Tootsies Orchid Lounge

22. Legends Corner

23. Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar

24. Christ Church Cathedral

25. President James K Polk Tomb

26. Wildhorse Saloon

27. Savannah's Candy Kitchen

28. Layla's Bluegrass Inn

29. Big Bang Dueling Piano Bar - Nashville

30. Military Branch of Tennessee State Museum

What travelers are saying.

10 Best Things To Do In Nashville, TN for Community and Culture

Discover the richness of Nashville's heritage, culture, and community by exploring the city's music, cuisine, art, and history.

Aysia Morton • Mar 21, 2024

In Nashville, the heartbeat of Black culture and community resonates through its music, cuisine, art, and history. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of civil rights leaders or indulging in the soulful sounds of jazz and gospel, there is a lot to see and experience in the cultural fabric of the city. Discover Nashville and explore the richness of its heritage.

Here are 10 of the best things to do in Nashville.

Visit the National Museum of African American Music

The National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) offers a comprehensive exploration of the diverse Black music experience. Its collection features audio and video recordings, costumes, posters, instruments, photographs, and more, all organized by genre and chronology. Visitors are encouraged to engage interactively, tracing the influences of musicians and uncovering lesser-known talents alongside iconic figures. The e museum’s entire collection is permanent and encourages visitors to learn something new each visit. Located at the heart of the expansive Fifth + Broadway complex, it is surrounded by restaurants, live music venues, and shops.

Attend a Live Jazz Performance

Delight in a premier jazz venue like Rudy’s Jazz Room. Visitors can indulge in world-class live performances, authentic New Orleans cuisine, locally crafted brews, and prohibition-era cocktails. The atmosphere is inviting and relaxing and the venue has historic charm. Rudy’s Jazz Room offers a signature menu featuring dishes such as New Orleans chicken, andouille and shrimp gumbo, red beans and rice, po-boys, crawfish grilled cheese, creole seafood pies, and yummy beignets. They have live music six nights a week with a diverse array of jazz styles.

Support Black Business at The Nashville Black Market

Since 2018, the Nashville Black Market (NBM) has been a cornerstone of the local community. The market initially showcased Black-owned businesses at the farmer’s market. Now, the NBM has expanded its offerings with the introduction of a new retail store marking a new chapter. Patrons can browse and purchase products from a diverse range of Nashville’s Black-owned businesses daily, spanning home goods, bath and body essentials, and apparel. NBM co-owners opened the brick-and-mortar to sustain and uplift the local Black entrepreneurial community.

Indulge in Hot Chicken In Its Birthplace

Savor the iconic flavors of Nashville by indulging in hot chicken right in its birthplace. Nashville’s hot chicken is renowned for its fiery spice and crispy perfection, making it a must-try for visitors and locals. From historic eateries to trendy hotspots, you’ll find an array of restaurants serving up this beloved dish in various levels of heat. Spots like Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, Prince‘s Hot Chicken, and Bolton’s Spicy Chicken & Fish have become staples in Nashville.

Pay Homage at the Civil Rights Room at the Nashville Public Library

Discreetly located on the second floor of the downtown public library, the Civil Rights Room pays homage to Nashville’s pivotal contribution to a transformative era in American history. Visitors will encounter a collection of photographs capturing moments of school desegregation, sit-ins, and marches. A circular table in the room embodies the peaceful protests held at lunch counters by college students during that time. At the heart of the room is a glass inscription by Martin Luther King, Jr., commemorating his visit to the city in 1960. Guests can explore propaganda, posters, and photographs from the time.

Attend the Blavity House Party Music Festival

The ultimate concert experience meets an R&B house party. Prepare for an extraordinary celebration of music, culture, and community at the inaugural Blavity House Party Music Festival in Nashville. Blavity House Party will feature live performances by top R&B, hip-hop, and Amapiano artists in an intimate and inclusive environment. This year, anticipate performances from headliners such as Lil Wayne, Monica, and Victoria Monet.

Attendees are encouraged to disconnect from their phones and immerse themselves fully in the moment. More than just music, it’s an opportunity to forge meaningful connections and create lasting memories with old and new friends.

Join a Guided Tour of Historic Black Neighborhoods

Nashville is home to several historic Black neighborhoods, each with its own unique story and cultural significance. One such neighborhood is Jefferson Street, often referred to as Nashville’s “Harlem.” This vibrant area was a hub for African American businesses, entertainment, and activism during the segregation era. Today, visitors can explore its rich history through landmarks like the historic Woolworth Building, which played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement. Another notable neighborhood is Edgehill, known for its strong sense of community and resilience. Exploring these historic Black neighborhoods offers a glimpse into Nashville’s rich heritage and the contributions of its Black community.

Take a Praise Break at Gospel Brunch

Indulge in a Praise Break at Gospel Brunch and uplift your spirit with soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics. You can do this while enjoying a delicious breakfast filled with Southern flavors. This unique experience of Gospel Brunch in Nashville brings the warmth of community and the power of gospel music. Spots like At Skull’s Rainbow Room bring together the rich traditions of gospel music with the flavors of Nashville. Indulge in the delightful breakfast of Banana’s Foster French Toast or prime rib and eggs.

Discover Art at Fisk University’s Carl Van Vechten Gallery

The Van Vechten Gallery is a collection of art situated within Fisk University, the historically Black university. Artist Georgia O’Keeffe generously contributed a portion of her husband’s art collection to Fisk University. Today, Fisk and the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas alternate in exhibiting the collection in its entirety every two years, showcasing works by esteemed artists such as Pablo Picasso, Paul Cézanne, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. Visitors who go to the Van Vechten Gallery can enjoy other captivating exhibits like its noteworthy Harlem Renaissance collection, reflecting the enduring legacy of African American artistic expression.

Celebrate at the African Street Festival

Experience the essence of African culture at the immersive African Street Festival. This free music festival is also a marketplace that allows visitors to journey through heritage that bridges the gap from Africa to Nashville. Vibrant Afro music and melodies echo through the air, and an array of vendors offer traditional crafts, cuisine, and trinkets. The festival is a place to celebrate the resilience and richness of African heritage, along with the vibrant spirit of Nashville.

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The 12 Best Hotels in Nashville

Plan your stay in Music City with these editor-loved and award-winning hotels.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Four Seasons

If I were to ask you what defines Nashville, you'd probably say country music and honky tonks, right? Well, you wouldn't be wrong. Country music certainly runs deep in Nashville — it's not called Music City for nothing — and the honky tonks of Broadway are some of the city's signature attractions. But Nashville has so much more to offer, from museums like the Frist Art Museum to major- and minor-league sports teams to a world-class dining scene and beyond.

With so much drawing visitors to town, Nashville's hotel industry has boomed over the past decade, with both major brand properties and independent boutique hotels filling the city's real estate. We’ve rounded up this list of the best hotels in Nashville based on our firsthand experience in the city as well as winners of T+L’s It List and World’s Best Awards . If you're ready to dive into planning your next trip, read on for our favorite picks for where to stay.

The Joseph, A Luxury Collection Hotel

Also available to book at Expedia.com

The art collection — it comprises hundreds of works by Tennessean artists.

If you bring your own car, parking is $60 per day.

Voted the top hotel in Nashville in the 2023 World’s Best Awards — its second year in a row in the coveted spot — the Joseph, a Luxury Collection Hotel , checks all the boxes for a perfect Nashville vacation. Its location in SoBro (South of Broadway), puts it within a 15-minute walk of all major downtown attractions, from Broadway's honky tonks and shops to the Frist Art Museum to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, which is just a block away.

While it's close to the action, the 297-room, 21-story hotel is more of a refined retreat, noted for its impressive art collection highlighting Tennessee artists, the tranquil Rose Spa and Salon, and a saltwater rooftop pool with a living green wall. And it's a dining destination, too. Husband-wife duo Tony and Cathy Mantuano, a chef and a wine expert, respectively, lead four food and beverage outlets here, including the upscale Italian restaurant Yolan and the cocktail bar Four Walls.

The Details:

• Neighborhood: SoBro (Downtown)
• Distance from Airport: 7.7 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Bridgestone Arena, Music City Center, Frist Art Museum, Ryman Auditorium
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible facilities, handicap parking, hearing-impaired alarms
• Rates: Starting at $281
• Parking: Valet only, $60 per night
• Pet Policy: Dogs only

“I stayed at The Joseph shortly after it opened a couple of years ago, and I returned to the hotel in July 2023 — during both visits, the hotel impressed me with its fantastic food and beverage program, attentive service, and beautiful design. The Italian mid-century aesthetic and impressive art collection stand out (in a good way) in Music City, offering an elevated stay just blocks from Broadway's honky tonks. I especially love the rooftop pool and inventive cocktails at Four Walls.”

–Elizabeth Rhodes, Special Projects Editor

Bobby Hotel

Also available to book at Hotels.com

There's a Dog-In-Residence program that trains dogs to be emotional support animals for veterans.

The minimum check-in age is 21.

A 2021 World’s Best Awards winner, the Bobby Hotel can be found just off Printers Alley, a famed Downtown nightlife street north of Broadway that dates back to the 1940s. Now, when we say a hotel has personality, we don't necessarily mean that literally — but in the case of the Bobby, there's actually a "person" involved. The namesake of the 144-room hotel is a fictional character whose world travels inspire the hotel's decor, culinary options, and overall vibe.

Highlights here include four dining and drinking outlets, including Bobby's Garage Bar, which has an entrance right on Printers Alley; a spa; and a rooftop pool. Another fun feature is the Bobby Hotel's Dog-In-Residence Program, in which the hotel has partnered with the Nashville Humane Society to adopt dogs, train them to be emotional support animals through a stint as a hotel representative, then donate them to veterans in need. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the hotel is dog-friendly.

The Details: 

• Neighborhood: Downtown
• Distance from Airport: 9.4 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Ryman Auditorium, Broadway Tennessee Performing Arts Center, Johnny Cash Museum, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
• Rates: Starting at $213
• Parking: Valet only, $55 per night

The renovated 1930s building gives off a New York–in-Nashville vibe.

True to the New York City aura, the entry-level rooms are small.

Whereas Bobby might be the party animal on Printers Alley, its neighbor Noelle could be likened to a sophisticated New York gallerist. The 224-room hotel, a World’s Best Awards winner in 2021 and a top-five finalist in 2023, is housed in a renovated 1930s building in Downtown Nashville that feels as if it were plucked from the streets of New York City.

Though the interiors have been updated with all the modern amenities you'd expect today, many of the original grand architectural elements remain — plus, all throughout are works by local artists and artisans. In the hotel's various public spaces, notably the Drug Store coffee counter in the lobby, you'll find visitors and locals mingling. Head to the rooftop bar and lounge Rare Bird for drinks and bites or downstairs to Makeready L&L for a sit-down meal, though you should note that from time to time, the subterranean restaurant is taken over by an immersive experience, like an Alice in Wonderland–themed eatery. There's also a hidden bar at the hotel, somewhere deep below ground…

• Distance from Airport: 8.7 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Ryman Auditorium, Broadway Tennessee Performing Arts Center, Johnny Cash Museum, Country Music Hall of Fame
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible rooms and suites
• Rates: Starting at $216
• Parking: Valet only, $20 per day or $55 for overnight stays

Urban Cowboy Nashville

Urban Cowboy Hotel

The decor in this old Victorian mansion is on another level.

Its location is fairly residential, though the restaurants and bars of East Nashville can be reached within a 10- to 15-minute walk.

Like so many other New York–based companies, Urban Cowboy made its way down south to Nashville, and with its eye-catching urban-meets-country aesthetic, the hotel is a perfect fit for the city. You'll find Urban Cowboy Nashville in East Nashville, more specifically in the residential Lockeland Springs neighborhood, which is rather unexpected in the Nashville hotel scene.

But pulling up to the hotel, you'll quickly understand why it's out here — it's housed in a Victorian mansion, and it has just eight suites. Of course, this is still Nashville, so there's a parlor wine bar with nightly live music, plus a pub in the carriage house. (Roberta's, another Brooklyn transplant, serves its pizza out back). As with the hotel brand's other locations, many of the suites here feature not only high-impact rustic decor, but also giant soaking tubs right in the bedrooms.

• Neighborhood: East Nashville
• Nearby Attractions: Five Points, The Basement East, Shelby Park, Nissan Stadium
• Accessibility: ​​Upper floors accessible by stairs only, visual alarms in hallways
• Rates: Starting at $228
• Parking: Free self-parking

Four Seasons Hotel Nashville

The Four Seasons brand lets its hair down at this laid-back yet attentively serviced hotel.

It's one of the most expensive hotels in town.

An It List winner in 2023, Four Seasons Hotel Nashville is my favorite luxury property in town. A long-time fan of the brand, I visited for an all-too-brief two-night stay just before the property opened to the public in 2022. What surprised me was that even though the Four Seasons name is associated with luxury, the Nashville hotel embraces the let-loose nature of its location (a few blocks off Broadway in SoBro). For example, if you ask the concierge for recommendations, they might point you to a dive bar with the best live music in East Nashville.

That said, service is still impeccable, whether that's at the front desk, the spa, or the standout Mimo restaurant, an Italian–meets–Southern American spot that blew me away with caviar linguine topped with fried okra. After my stay, the 194-room hotel opened its seventh-floor pool deck and outdoor lounge, Rivière, inspired by the French Riviera, and I'm looking forward to returning to experience it.

• Neighborhood: SoBro
• Distance from Airport: 7.3 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Broadway, Ryman Auditorium, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Music City Center, Johnny Cash Museum, Ascend Amphitheater
• Accessibility: Wider wheelchair-accessible doors, entry doors have a secondary door viewer that is at an accessible height, lighting controls and thermostats within accessible reach
• Rates: Starting at $500
• Parking: Valet only, $57 per night
• Pet Policy: Cats, dogs, and other domestic animals weighing less than 60 pounds

Hermitage Hotel

This hotel has a sense of grandeur unlike any other in Nashville.

There's no spa or pool.

Opened in 1910, the Hermitage Hotel is Nashville's Grande Dame, located downtown just across from the Tennessee State Capitol. The beaux-arts structure was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2020, after which it underwent a two-year restoration. While the hotel retains much of its original grandeur — just look at the ornate coffers in the lobby's ceiling — its public spaces and 122 guest rooms have been refreshed with a bright and airy palette of colors that blend tradition and modernity well.

Food and beverage are overseen by Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten; choose from the signature restaurant Drusie & Darr, known for its extensive bourbon collection, and the all-day café and wine bar, the Pink Hermit. In 2023, the Hermitage was a top-five finalist in the World's Best Awards.

• Nearby Attractions: Tennessee State Capitol, Tennessee Performing Arts Center, Ryman Auditorium, Broadway, Bridgestone Arena
• Accessibility: Accessible queen room with two queen-sized beds, accessible king room with one king-sized bed
• Rates: Starting at $290
• Parking: Valet only, $55 per night plus tax
• Pet Policy: Pets welcome, no restrictions on weight or number of pets

W Nashville

The rooftop bar has excellent views.

This is a very lively hotel.

The W hotel brand is known for its upscale, life-of-the-party atmosphere, and that's certainly true of the Nashville outpost in the Gulch. Its public spaces are vast, welcoming in both guests and locals to its eateries, including the Italian chophouse Carne Mare and the Barista Parlor coffee shop; its bars, including the WET deck pool bar (non-guests can book day passes for the pool, by the way) and the rooftop Proof bar, known for its late-night DJ sets; and fitness classes, including yoga on the yoga lawn (complimentary for guests, paid for visitors).

While many Ws feature rather stark, concrete-heavy interiors, W Nashville provides a more residential vibe in its 346 rooms and suites — though there's still a touch of edginess with details like emerald green subway tiles and comic book–inspired art.

• Neighborhood: The Gulch
• Distance from Airport: 8.1 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Rudy's Jazz Room, Music City Center, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Frist Art Museum
• Accessibility: Accessible main entrance, accessible restaurants, elevators
• Rates: Starting at $272
• Parking: Valet, $68 per day
• Pet Policy: Pets welcome

1 Hotel Nashville

The decor transports you to a boho-chic beach destination.

Valet is $62 per night.

It's all about biophilic design at 1 Hotel Nashville, a top-five finalist in the 2023 World's Best Awards. That means it's all about connecting with nature, and nowhere is that more evident than in the Bamford Wellness Spa, 1 Kitchen, and Harriet's Rooftop bar, each of which are lush spaces with live plants just about everywhere.

The 215 rooms also have a touch of greenery, but the emphasis is more on wood elements — the walls are wood, there are wood beams in the ceiling, and some of the furniture is made of wood. If you didn't look out the window, you might think you're at an eco-chic beach resort somewhere in the tropics, not between Broadway and the Gulch in Nashville.

• Distance from Airport: 8.4 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Frist Art Center, Broadway, Bridgestone Arena, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
• Accessibility: Hotel and guest room areas accessible
• Rates: Starting at $269
• Parking: Valet, $62 overnight
• Pet Policy: Dogs and cats allowed, may be able to accommodate other animals

The Germantown Inn

This is a true B&B, with breakfast and happy hour included.

Amenities are limited, since it's an inn rather than a full-service hotel.

The key things to know about the Germantown Inn are right in the property's name: this is, in fact, an inn rather than a hotel, and it's located in the historic Germantown neighborhood. Like Urban Cowboy, the Germantown Inn is set in a former home — in this case, a brick one dating back to the 1860s.

Its 10 suites might be named after historical figures (presidents, mostly), but the decor is anything but traditional. Instead, bright colors abound with punchy prints showcasing each suite's namesake. Since this is an inn, amenities are somewhat limited. However, breakfast is included each morning, there's a daily happy hour, and staff is available 24/7 if there are any issues. And perhaps best of all, there's free parking.

• Neighborhood: Germantown
• Distance from Airport: 9.1 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Tennessee State Museum, First Horizon Park, Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum, Tennessee State Capitol
• Accessibility: Wheelchair access and reduced mobility rooms
• Rates: Starting at $236
• Pet Policy: Two pet-friendly suites

The Russell

The hotel donates a portion of the room rate to local nonprofits helping those experiencing homelessness.

This is a self-service hotel, and pets are not allowed.

What happens when you transform a 115-year-old church in East Nashville into a boutique hotel? You end up with the Russell. This character-filled 23-room hotel retains plenty of design details from its previous life, including gorgeous stained-glass windows and repurposed pews. But it's now bursting with color and midcentury-inspired decor.

Now, the Russell has a bit of a quirk — it's largely self-service. There's no front desk, no daily housekeeping, and no on-site restaurant and bar. Instead, you're sent a code via email to unlock the door to the lobby, and there are free snacks and a Smeg coffee maker in the rooms. It's a bit of an unorthodox approach to hospitality, falling somewhere between a vacation rental and a hostel, but for low-maintenance travelers looking for a well-designed crash pad, this is the perfect stay.

• Distance from Airport: 7.9 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Five Points, Nissan Stadium, The Basement East
• Accessibility: No elevator
• Rates: Starting at $189
• Pet Policy: No

Fairlane Hotel Nashville

The '70s vibes are immaculate.

When you're housed in a former bank headquarters built in the 1970s, sometimes you just have to lean into the retro aesthetic — and that's precisely what the Fairlane Hotel did. The boutique property embraces a late midcentury design ethos in a way that's less kitsch and more refined, keeping original details like terrazzo floors and travertine columns and modernizing with contemporary furniture.

The on-site dining options include a lobby coffee bar (guests receive free drip coffee if they flash their room key) and a fourth-floor, indoor-outdoor eatery called Ellington's Restaurant. Something interesting about the Fairlane is that none of its 81 rooms are the same, and many of them have floor-to-ceiling windows that make them feel much larger.

• Distance from Airport: 8.6 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Tennessee Performing Arts Center, Tennessee State Capitol, Ryman Auditorium, Bridgestone Arena, Broadway
• Accessibility: Accessible entrance, restaurant, and rooms
• Rates: Starting at $280
• Pet Policy: Limited number of pet-friendly rooms

JW Marriott Nashville

This is a true luxury hotel.

It frequently caters to business travelers and has a more formal atmosphere.

When it opened in 2018, the JW Marriott Nashville introduced a new level of luxury to the city. Located between SoBro and the Gulch, the 33-story tower is a standout in the neighborhood, and its reflective exterior is a hint at the (tasteful) glitz you'll find inside — at least in the public spaces. The 533 rooms, on the other hand, are rather serene, done up in a neutral palette that allows the views from the floor-to-ceiling windows to shine.

Restaurants here include Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina and the adjacent Bourbon Sky bar, which have exceptional city views from their vantage point atop the tower; a casual all-day café Stompin' Grounds Restaurant and its associated grab-and-go market; a lobby bar; and the seasonal Cabana Club pool bar and grill. There's also an outdoor pool and a spa to round out the facilities.

• Distance from Airport: 7.6 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Frist Art Museum, Broadway, Bridgestone Arena, Ryman Auditorium, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
• Accessibility: Elevators, accessible entrance, accessible restaurants, accessible rooms
• Rates: Starting at $278
• Parking: Valet, $58 per night
• Pet Policy: Two dogs allowed per room

Know Before You Go

If you plan to visit during high season, book in advance.

Nashville is an extremely popular vacation destination with a lengthy high season — it begins as early as late April and runs through early October, peaking during the summer months. If you plan on visiting during this period, make sure to book your entire trip in advance , from accommodations and tickets to attractions, events, and dinner reservations. Could you do Nashville last minute? Absolutely! But give yourself the best odds of checking off your full wishlist (and doing so at a reasonable price) by booking ahead.

The city is surprisingly pet-friendly

You don't need to leave Fido at home when you come to Nashville. Many hotels are pet-friendly (though you might have to pay an extra fee), and many restaurants allow dogs in their outdoor dining sections. Plus, there's plenty of outdoor space for your dog to enjoy, from leash-free dog runs to the sprawling Centennial Park. Just be sure to call up a business in advance of booking or visiting to check their pet policies.

There’s more to Nashville than Broadway alone

It's true that most visitors to Nashville make a beeline for Broadway, with its famed stretch of honky tonks and live music pouring out of every business on the street. But there's plenty to explore elsewhere in Nashville, including world-class restaurants, museums, historic sites, and universities. Take some time to visit other neighborhoods, such as 12 South, where restaurants and boutiques line the main drag, or East Nashville, a bastion of nightlife beyond honky tonks.

How We Chose These Hotels

Stefanie Waldek is a freelance travel writer who has been vacationing in Nashville — and traveling there for work — for more than a decade. To select the hotels on this list, she relied on her own experiences, as well as the opinions of Travel + Leisure editors and other contributors. She also considered reader input, incorporating Nashville hotels that have won T+L’s World's Best and It List awards. Ultimately, she narrowed down the selection based on a hotel's location, amenities, decor, and value, choosing a range of properties that would suit a variety of travelers. And finally, she ensured that each hotel recommendation aligns with our T+L Hotel Values .

10 Best Nashville Bars on Broadway (We’ve Tried Them All!)

From the Author: I've lived in Nashville for 12 years, and my wife was born here. Alex worked downtown for five years. We love Broadway and know it well. If you have any questions, we respond quickly to comments!

Whether you're looking to dance and drink or sit down and enjoy delicious Southern food, Broadway has you covered.

My wife and I have been to almost every bar and honky-tonk on Broadway, and several simply stand out above the rest.

I want to start with a few helpful observations:

• Stairs! The honky-tonks on Broadway are on multiple levels, and you need to be ready to climb multiple flights of stairs unless you want to stay on the ground level. Some bars have elevators. I mention it where applicable below.
• There's no cover charge. You won't be charged to enter any bar on Broadway.
• The bars are surprisingly child-friendly. During the day, before 9 p.m., kids under 21 are welcome. Only two bars ask for ID all day. I've mentioned those below.
• The Broadway strip is surprisingly family-friendly. It's not just dancing and drinking. There is plenty of space to sit down, eat, and enjoy the best music in the world.
• There's no dress code. Unless it's completely outrageous, feel free to dress how you wish.
• There's a big difference between daytime Broadway and nighttime Broadway. You're more likely to get bumped and puked on at night; it's more rowdy. So, decide ahead of time what your preferences are.

After spending an entire afternoon on Broadway, I was surprised at how expansive and fun it was. It sounds a bit cliche, but there really is something for everyone, from huge restaurants where you can sit down and enjoy a meal to rowdy dancing and loud music to laid-back margaritas on the rooftop.

So, without further ado, here's a list of our favorite bars in order!

NOTICE  // We try our best to keep the information in this guide as up-to-date as possible. If you notice anything has changed, please leave us a comment down below.

LAST UPDATE :

November 4, 2023

1. Tootsies Orchid Lounge

Tootsies is my favorite purely for its historical value. In the days when artists came into town to play at the Ryman (right next door), they would play at Tootsies before or after.

The Wall of Fame (pictured below) has immortalized the greatest artists who have played here. To this day, the bands are always great. It's also a small venue and small stage, getting you up close and personal with artists.

Tootsies have multiple levels connected by stairs at the back. At the top, they have a rooftop bar with a fantastic view of upper Broadway and downtown Nashville.

Insider Tip:

Tootsies is a smaller venue than most, and it can be hard to find a seat. However, it can't be missed. You'll get really close to the band, which is unlike other bars on Broadway. Make sure you spend time on each level, as there are different bands. Before 6 pm, they will not ask for ID.

It has a really fun and friendly vibe. I had a really good time, highly recommend it!

422 Broadway (next door to the Ryman)

Open 9:30 am – 3:30 pm daily

Visit Website

2. Roberts Western World

Roberts Western World is a staple of Broadway and is the place to go for country music. It consistently wins the award for best country music on Broadway.

You will simply be blown away by the quality of musicians at Roberts. It's so much fun! You are welcome to dance even though the dance floor is small.

On the day I went, I was lucky to catch a set performed by Jesse Lee Jones (pictured below), who owns Roberts.

Like Tootsies, the bar is smaller than others and is always packed. The servers are really busy, so you need to be patient. A local favorite is the bologna sandwich, chips, and Moonpie. It's not exactly gourmet cuisine, but it is cheap.

Everyone is friendly, and you'll have a great time.

You'll find Roberts to feel less like a tourist trap than the other, larger venues, which I like. Roberts and Tootsies are the first places I recommend visitors see when coming to Nashville.

I asked singer, songwriter, and Broadway performer Emily McGill for some local advice, and she said to make sure you try the famous Recession Special. It’s just $6 for a Moonpie, Fried Bologna sandwich, and PBR Beer.

Be prepared for the band to step off the stage and hand a bucket around for tips, it's how they are paid, so be ready with some cash. There may be a line to get in at night. Also, try the Recession Special meal; it's cheap bar food and a unique Nashville experience.

Roberts is popular with the locals so it's always a bit busier.

The most popular band is Kelly's Hero's who play most nights at 6:30. Catch a set by them if you can; they are fantastic!

They don't ask for ID during the day.

422 Broadway

9:30 am – 3 am daily.

(615) 244-9552

3. The Stage

The Stage is the first bar I recommend after Tootsies and Roberts. If you are in Nashville for the first time, you have to visit the first two just for the experience.

The Stage is famous, and people are always in a good mood, and the bands are great.

My sister-in-law used to work at the Stage for a long time. Here's what she said:

• There are bands on every floor.
• You can order almost anything, but it's standard liquors, beers, wines,, and cocktails. Nothing fancy.
• The food is basic bar food that is heated up in an oven. Again, it's nothing fancy.
• The bathrooms are well maintained.
• The servers are quick, even in busy times.
• It's open to all ages until 6 p.m.

A little-known tip is that there is a backdoor entrance. Between the Stage and the Ryman is an alleyway. You don't have to stand in line or face the crowds. You can get in through the back door entrance.

412 Broadway

10 am – 2:30 am daily.

(615) 726-0504

4. Kid Rock's Big Ass Honky Tonk

The honky-tonks I mentioned above are places you have to visit at least once. They are classic, famous, and old places that you need to see.

Kid Rock's Big Ass Honky Tonk is different. It has multiple floors with open windows that give great views of Broadway in all directions. The open windows are great during the warmer months.

It's a huge venue with bands on every level. In typical Kid Rock style, it's adorned with flags and huge American Eagles.

Out of all the honky tonks I've visited, the music, in my opinion, is the best at Kid Rocks. The band pictured below was so good!

If you are bringing kids, Kid Rock's is ideal as it's kid-friendly, and they don't ask for ID before 9 p.m.

Kid Rock's is also the best place to see celebrities in Nashville. Kid Rock is known to make an appearance and even sing from one of the balconies on occasion.

We always have a great time!

221 Broadway

11 am – 3:00 am daily.

(615) 248-2706

5. Luke's 32 Bridge

Luke's 32 Bridge is where I would go if I want to sit down to enjoy a meal with some space to myself and listen to quality music.

The food doesn't disappoint. They specialize in sirloin, salmon, spaghetti, and wings.

Luke's 32 Bridge is a place it is easier to sit down and enjoy a meal and chill out a bit. Broadway isn't always rowdy and crazy.

They have four levels with bands on each level (of course) and the rooftop bar has great views of Broadway.

It's a great spot to bring families with kids during the day. It would also be a great location for a date. The food is delicious with good variety. Also, the bathrooms are clean, and the staff are friendly.

301 Broadway

11 a.m. – 2:00 a.m. Monday to Thursday. 10 am – 2 am Friday to Sunday.

(615) 514-2031

Ole Red is Blake Shelton's bar. When interviewed during the opening, he said he wanted the bar to be centered around the stage – which it certainly is.

When you walk through the doors, the stage is larger than the other honky tonks and is the center of attention.

It's one of the few bars that have elevators, which is a good thing. I walked to the top and had lost my breath by the time I got there.

The rooftop bar is really nice. As you can see from the picture below, it is family-friendly. They have all types of seating, including cushioned chairs and leather couches.

You might have to wait for a table on a busy weekend, but it won't be long. They have a balcony above the stage, which is perfect for watching the band if you can get one of those seats.

I was not asked for ID during the day.

300 Broadway

11 am – 12:00 am Sunday to Wednesday. 11 am – 2 am Thursday to Saturday.

(615) 780-0900

7. Honky Tonk Central

Honky Tonk Central is huge! It has three levels with open windows and balconies overhanging Broadway.

There is a bar on every level and ample seating.

Honk Tonk Central is by far one of the most popular bars on Broadway. I wouldn't recommend this spot for families.

Check out the view! 👇

Everybody raves about the huge nachos. It's the best spot for people-watching.

329 Broadway

11 a.m. – 3:00 a.m. daily.

(615) 742-9095

8. Miranda Lambert's Casa Rosa

Miranda Lambert's Casa Rose is a great place to eat and drink on Broadway. It also has the best margaritas in town!

The bar and restaurant have a fun vibe and are definitely more low-key than the other bars on the strip. There is a long bar (pictured below) to sit and drink and plenty of table space.

The restaurant is really popular and suitable for all ages (note the high chair pictured below). The decor, food, and drinks always get fantastic reviews, and the rooftop bar shouldn't be missed.

I will definitely be back to enjoy the restaurant.

Try the Bluebird Gunpower and Lead cocktails. If you want to eat quality food, I would visit Miranda Lamberts, Ole Red, Luke Brian's, or Acme Feed and Seed.

308 Broadway

11 a.m. – 2:00 a.m. Sunday to Thursday. 10 am – 2 am Friday and Saturday.

(615) 309-6295

9. Jason Aldean's Kitchen & Rooftop Bar

I love Jason Aldean's Kitchen and Rooftop Bar. In my opinion, it's the most laid-back bar and honky-tonk on Broadway.

As you can see from the images below, there is plenty of space to sit, enjoy a meal and a drink and listen to the music. Also, the bar is huge, and before 6 p.m., they allow all ages.

The bands are not so loud that you can't talk, and there are screens everywhere to watch the game.

The bar and restaurant are kid-friendly.

The food isn't gourmet. For really high-quality food, I suggest Luke Brian's, Ole Red, or Acme Feed and Seed. The food at Jason Aldean's is standard bar-type food, i.e., burgers, fries, and pizza.

After 6 p.m., it's common for there to be a line to get in. It can take up to 45 minutes to get a table. To avoid the line, consider going anytime before 6. The last time I went was 3 p.m. on a Friday afternoon, and there were plenty of seats and no waiting.

Also, make sure you check out the rooftop bar – it's great!

307 Broadway

11 am – 2:30 Monday – Thursday, 10 am to 2 am Friday to Sunday.

(615) 514-1537

10. Nudies Honky Tonk

I recommend Nudies because it's almost as famous as Roberts or Tootsies. They have three floors and recently added a rooftop bar.

The bar is fashioned after Nudie Cohn, who designed rhinestone-covered suits known as “Nudie Suits.” His clients included Johnny Cash, Glenn Campbell, Johnny Cash, and Hank Williams, to name just a few.

You can still see the suits and memorabilia in the bar today, including the car attached to the wall.

When I was writing this article, I asked my local Nashville friends where they would recommend people visit on their first time to Nashville. Nudies made the list every time.

The reason we recommend it is because it's like a Nashville museum with free admission. The memorabilia and history of Nashville have been captured perfectly.

The bands, drinks, and food are great, too 😉.

409 Broadway

10 am – 3:00 am daily.

Bonus Tips for Visitors

I've included some bonus tips for visitors below that, as a first-time visitor, you might be unaware of.

11. Friends in Low Places Bar & Honky Tonk

You've probably heard that Garth Brooks is opening a bar on Broadway. I walked by on November 3rd, 2023, and everything was closed. I could see a workman inside, but there was no access to the public.

According to the Tennessean , the latest information is that there will be a grand opening on November 24 at 7 p.m.

12. Twelve Thirty Club

This recommendation also comes from Emily McGill, a Musicians Hall of Fame employee and Broadway performer. 

Justin Timberlake’s 12/30 club bar has one of the best rooftop bars on Broadway, where you can get an awesome weekend brunch and dance to a live DJ.

The main floor has great food and specialty cocktails. The food is more like upmarket dinner food (rather than greasy bar food).

There are also a lot of visits from Justin Timberlake, so you’ll never know when you’ll get to see him live.

550 Broadway

11 am – 11:00 pm most days

5th & Broadway

At the top of Lower Broadway, across the street from the Ryman Auditorium and the Bridgestone Arena, is a shopping and eating complex called Fifth & Broadway.

It has a ton of shopping options, from boots, clothing, sunglasses, and an Apple store.

It also has the Assembly Food Hall, which is a massive, multi-floor complex with almost anything you can imagine. They have pizza, BBQ, hot chicken, and more. There's an abundance of chairs and tables, so it's easy to sit down.

I highly recommend you stop here while you are checking out the bars on Broadway.

Another highlight is that there is parking below Fifth and Broadway. If you have a car you park below, there is plenty of space and the most it will cost you is $40. It's cheaper depending on how long you stay. I've linked to the hours and prices here.

Author Alex Hawker

Hey. I’m Alex. I'm the founder and writer here at Nashville To Do. I've been living in and writing about Nashville for over a decade now, and I'm excited to share all I've learned! Learn more about me here.

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3 thoughts on “10 Best Nashville Bars on Broadway (We’ve Tried Them All!)”

Hi Alex, this is my first trip to Nashville. I’m coming with my brother who has been there before. He said he didn’t get to Coyote Ugly, I don’t see it on your list. What reviews do you have on this place? Thanks for creating this info site!

We love Coyote Ugly! We find it a fun vibe, the hosts are very friendly. It’s also a great place to dance. You’ll find it fun and clean. Thanks for reading!

Hello Alex Hawker,

This article seems to be written by someone knowledgeable and experienced. According to me, it’s helpful.

Regards, Rahul

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15 Unique Things to Do in Nashville, TN

Reading Time: 7 minutes

Nashville, Tennessee , embodies a harmonious blend of vibrant energy and Southern charm, making it an enticing destination for newcomers in search of homes for sale or apartments for rent in the city. Beyond its iconic skyline, Nashville invites you to immerse yourself in a cultural mosaic, surrounded by natural wonders and a thriving community that makes living in Nashville something certainly worth considering. In this Redfin article, we asked locals what some of the more unique things to do in Nashville were. Their responses paint  a city laden with hidden gems that goes beyond its famous music scene.

1. Nashville’s mural Photo opps 

“What I love photographing around Nashville are the many murals that can be found around town, namely around East Nashville,” says Tina Gionis-Nashville Event Photography . “I love posing people against these backdrops for fun and funky photos. Below is mural is located in front of Jerry’s Market on Gallatin Road.”

Courtesy of Tina Gionis-Nashville Event Photography

2. Beverages at House of Cards

“For a special downtown experience that’s a bit off the beaten path, escape into House of Cards , a speakeasy-style restaurant underneath the Johnny Cash Museum, recommends Silver Street Management . “Inside, you’ll find dim lighting, sumptuous decor, magical artifacts, and the best part—a dining room full of magicians performing sleight of hand and card tricks.”

2. Italian food at Nicoletto’s Italian Kitchen

“Tucked just outside of the heart of East Nashville is the original location of Nicoletto’s Italian Kitchen ,” suggests Silver Street Management. “The restaurant is small but mighty, with just a few tables inside, so takeaway is your best bet. Nicoletto’s features a rotating menu of fresh pastas, so you might want to call to place your order to see what’s on the menu for the day. 

Build your own bowl starting with the pasta noodle of your choice, add a sauce (try the pink sauce), and add a protein or veggies if you wish. The Nicoletto brothers hail from Chicago, so if sandwiches are your jam, don’t miss the Italian Beef. There is also a location in another lesser-known neighborhood, Donelson , that includes patio seating.”

3. Nashville’s green gem: Cheekwood

“ Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is a local treasure. While not a hidden gem per se, there are parts of the expansive botanical garden that are less known,” says Silver Street Management. “Once on the grounds, grab a map and find the Sculpture Trail, a 1.5-mile wooded trail featuring 10 works of art designed to play off their natural surroundings. It’s a beginner-level path, and so serene you may end up nose to nose with a squirrel or even a deer. The rest of Cheekwood is also not to be missed, so leave some time for the other gardens as well. Lastly, check out their website for upcoming events such as Cheekwood Harvest, Thursday Night Out, and Holiday Lights.”

4. Watch city landscapes

“My favorite photography spot is Cumberland Park and the Bridge Building ,” says Liz Courtney Photography . “I love that it’s one of the lesser known spots so you don’t have to dodge as many people but it gives a beautiful mix of city landscapes and nature. It’s the perfect place to take a few dressy, classic portraits and then change into something fun and have a picnic in the grass.”

Courtesy of Liz Courtney Photography

5. Dancing at the American Legion Post 82

“Who needs weekends when you’ve got Inglewood’s Honky Tonk Tuesday at the American Legion Post 82 ,” suggests Vector Travel . “Hipsters, seasoned veterans, and experienced country line dancers mix it up fueled by cheap drinks and world class music played by bands in residency or the occasional national act like Jim Lauderdale who grace the stage to test new material and play old hits. You can even get line dance lessons if you arrive at 7PM, before the music starts. For a modest cover, you’re sure to leave with memories that last a lifetime.” 

6. Lockeland Springs historical nature

There is an absolutely hidden gem of a three-acre park in East Nashville called Lockeland Springs ,” recommends Vector Travel. “Its sinuous loop path leads you by the historic spring water bottling site and it feels like you’re descending back in time as you disappear into the lush vegetation filled with berries, tree fruits, wetland grasses, and dozens of bird species that announce your arrival. It’s a great way to shake off last night’s fun and rejuvenate your mind and your body.”

7. Try out Falconry

“Have you ever heard of Falconry or maybe seen it in a movie where some medieval knight is riding on his war horse with a huge hawk on his wrist? There, in the sky, a small bird flies by, and the knight launches his hawk. Well, just outside of Nashville, you get to be that knight,” says Brody Hall Photography . “ Wing Blade Falconry , located about 20 minutes North of Nashville, has hawks, falcons, owls, and crows just waiting to sit on your wrist, or maybe hop on your head. This is something you want to do.

They have several different experiences to offer, and they are all fun. They use a lure hooked to a drone, a handheld lure, all kinds of things you get to experience. And yes, you get to hold and gently stroke the birds. Make sure you bring a camera.

The owner is incredibly knowledgeable and was trained by a falconer in England. The owner answers questions, shares information, and is an all-around great lady. And yes, you wear a glove and the birds will fly to your wrist. It’s an amazing feeling.”

Courtesy of Brody Hall Photography

8. Travel through time in The Union Station Nashville Yards

“One of the most historical places to explore in Downtown Nashville is The Union Station Nashville Yards ,” recommends Union Station Hotel Nashville . “Now known as the Marriott Autograph Collection hotel, the building dates back to 1900 when it was initially built as a bustling train terminal for the L&N (Louisville and Nashville Railroad). Check out the lobby, home to a magnificent ceiling that includes 128 panels of original curved stained glass and a historic fireplace, which is original to the building. It has been a tradition from as early as 1915 for couples to get married in front of the fireplace, and the tradition continues to this day.”

9. Make your day relaxing at L&L Market

“ L&L Market , a lively gem in Nashville, comes highly recommended for guests on work visits, trips, or bachelorette parties,” says Misfit Homes . “This locale offers a blend of shopping, dining, and local events embodying the Nashville spirit.

Courtesy of Misfit Homes

10. How to spend a day in Nashville

Misfit Homes offers suggestions on how to spend your day in Nashville, recommending to “Begin your day with a donut from Five Daughters Bakery , then grab a coffee at Honest Coffee Roasters . As the day progresses, enjoy a sweet treat at Gracie’s Milkshake Bar . For meals, Thai Ni Yom offers Thai cuisine, while Penne Pazze delights with Italian fare. Amidst your exploration, live music may serenade you as you discover unique finds at boutiques like Amelia’s Flower Shop and The Barefoot Cottage .

Extend your experience across the street at Sylvan Supply , with its relaxed beer garden, and savor a fresh salad at Radish Kitchen . Further down, Hattie B’s awaits hot chicken enthusiasts.”

11. Spend your weekend at 12 South Neighborhood

Misfit Homes also recommends staying in  “the vibrant 12 South neighborhood . Prepare for an unforgettable experience filled with mouthwatering local eateries, trendy boutique shops, and serene parks. Take a stroll down 12th Avenue South and be captivated by the eclectic mix of businesses. Discover high-end luxury and vintage stores, gourmet restaurants, and unique locally-owned establishments. This neighborhood perfectly combines local charm and tourist appeal, offering dining, shopping, and relaxation options to elevate your trip. Don’t miss the famous Five Daughters Bakery for fresh, gourmet donuts, and Christie Cookie Co. for delicious treats.”

12. Locally sourced bites at Stock and Barrel

“One restaurant that may be lesser-known is Stock and Barrel in the Gulch in Nashville,” says Gemstone Solutions Property Management . “They have a wonderful menu of locally sourced unique burgers, desserts, and drinks, including the Elvis Burger with Peanut Butter and Fried Bananas, Duck Fat Fries, Local Bourbon Pecan Pie, and among many other drinks.”

13. Walk the 440 Greenway

Afterwards, you can walk off your full stomach at the 440 Greenway . Gemstone Solutions Property Management says, “The 440 Greenway is a wonderful city hiking trail that spans off of West End to Centennial Park. The city has plans to connect the trail to several other points, eventually bringing it full circle.”

14. War Memorial Building

“The War Memorial Building is definitely a sightseeing spot that captures the best lighting in both morning and sunset hours, watching the sun rays go through the ginormous Greek like pillars,” suggests NitaInNashville Photography . It has a similar aesthetic to the popular Parthenon at Centennial Park in Nashville, but very private, and is a less tourist area where you can have peaceful moments, soaking in the neoclassical architecture.”

Courtesy of NitaInNashville Photography

15. Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center

“ Opryland Hotel is a well-known spot in Nashville during the holidays, getting to see the wonderful Christmas lights brighten up at night in this huge luxury hotel and convention center,” says NitaInNashville Photography. “What some may not know is how big this hotel actually is from the numerous restaurants, events, shows and wonderful conservatory plants filled up in one room with a city inside. I’ve done plenty of shoots here with different clients from lifestyle, to jungle like aesthetic to weddings. This place is a sight to see even before or after the holiday season is over.”

Holly is part of the content marketing team and enjoys writing about home improvement and lifestyle. Her dream home would incorporate both an industrial and biophilic design.

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5 Great Things to do in Nashville (Besides Party)

N ashville is one of the most exciting cities in the US to visit, whether you’re looking to reclaim your youth or have a more relaxed experience. The good news is that there are so many fun things to do in Nashville besides party!

After reading your article, you’ll know where to stay in Nashville, what to do in Nashville and pick up some valuable Nashville travel tips.

Where to stay in Nashville

To get that “Nashville vibe” considered staying in Downtown Nashville or nearby. Whether you plan to go out late or not, it’s nice to be able to pop back to your hotel at a moment’s notice!

We had a wonderful stay at Holston House , a Nashville boutique hotel run by Hyatt. It’s located in a historic building that has been beautifully updated. There’s a sense of warm sophistication at every touch! The location on 7th Street is perfect – close enough to walk to many of the main Nashville attractions, bars and live music venues on Lower Broadway but away from the unruly crowds.

There are a variety of rooms available including King and 2 Queen options of different sizes. Our room featured one of the most beautiful hotel bathrooms we’ve ever seen!

You can also enjoy the rooftop pool and bar both day and night. There’s a great low-key lounge vibe up there to complement the wonderful views. Both the rooftop and the lobby bar are. a nice respite if you want to have a drink and a conversation somewhere in Downtown Nashville.

Without question, I’d stay at Holston House again!

If you’re on a tighter budget or need more space to spread out, consider Hyatt Place Downtown Nashville . It’s around the corner from the Country Music Hall of Fame and in a slightly quieter area that’s still convenient to Lower Broadway.

There are plenty of room sizes to choose from and the largest ones will hold up to 6 guests. You’ll also get free breakfast and an indoor pool.

Best things to do in Nashville Besides Party

Whether you’re a non-drinker or just looking for a more low-key experience, there are tons of great things to do in Nashville during the day and night.

Listen to live music

Even if you aren’t into the party scene of downtown Nashville, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy live music at all hours.

During the day, push your way through the crowds and head toward the riverfront along Broadway. ACME Feed & Seed has several spaces that vary in how raucous they are (and what ages are allowed) but during the day you can enjoy live music with your lunch without worrying about overzealous partiers. Whiskey River Saloon (next door) has a fantastic whiskey selection and isn’t too over-the-top during the day though after dark it attracts big crowds.

Check the calendars to see what time bands are playing or just stroll around until something sounds good and doesn’t look too crowded, but we definitely found thinner crowds near the riverfront than around 2nd and 3rd streets.

If you want to hear live music in Nashville not on Broadway there are some excellent options. It’s good to know that many of the best spots sell tickets for their shows, so ideally you’ll decide where to go a week in advance (but even if you don’t, there’s still hope). Some of the best spots are The Bluebird Cafe , The Listening Room , Station Inn and The Basement East .

If you couldn’t snag tickets or your dinner plans don’t work with the show times, try one of the free shows at The Listening Room. In a city full of talent, you’ll find up-and-comers performing on the stage near the bar in a relaxed venue. This is also one of the best places to see live music with kids in Nashville!

Eat amazing food

Nashville is right up there with some of America’s top foodie cities, but obviously it’s got plenty of unique personality in its cuisine. There are a few things you have to try while you’re there:

• Hot chicken – It’s like fried chicken, but taken to the next level with plenty of kick. The most convenient location (which is absolutely delicious) is Hattie B’s on Broadway, but for shorter lines and a more local feel check out the Melrose or West Nashville outpost if you have a car.
• Biscuits – This is the South, so you’ll want to be sure to try some biscuits alongside your fried chicken. Check out Biscuit Love (conveniently located in The Gulch), Nashville Biscuit House or Sky Blue Cafe.
• Donuts – If you haven’t had your fill of fried food yet, round out the trifecta with an excellent croissant-style 100 layer donut from Five Daughters Bakery in 12South or East Nashville.

When you need a break from deep fried fare, Nashville still has plenty of great options for you. For light “coastal” food check out The Hampton Social just off of Broadway, or mix it up with fantastic fancy tacos at Ladybird Taco in 12 South or incredible sophisticated Southern cooking at 5th & Taylor in Germantown.

For a unique experience, check out this great Nashville food tour in the historic-turned-trendy Germantown neighborhood. It’s a great way to learn about the city’s history while also sampling some of its finest offerings from BBQ to baked goods to cocktails.

Honor music’s greats

Once you set foot in Nashville, it’s no surprise that it’s been dubbed “Music City, USA”. Music is everywhere and it has been for decades. In addition to hitting up some great spots for live music, one of the best things to do in Nashville during the day is visit one of its many music museums.

We had time to visit three of these top Nashville attractions, and have a fourth on our to-do list for the next time we’re in town. The great news is that these are all located in Downtown Nashville so it’s easy to pop in for an hour or two. I promise, these are some of the best daytime activities in Nashville!

• Country Music Hall of Fame – There’s so much more to country music than Merle Haggard and Dolly Parton, though they’re important of course. The Country Music Hall of Fame does a great job of tracing country’s roots and inspirations along with the turning points in the genre and crossovers between other styles. Even though we aren’t big country music fans, it was absolutely worth a visit! This is one of the only places in Nashville where we waited in line, so I recommend buying your tickets in advance . For a truly unique experience you can combine a visit to the Hall of Fame with a behind-the-scenes tour of RCA’s Studio B .
• Johnny Cash Museum – If you’re even a little bit of a Johnny Cash fan, you can’t miss a stop here! This museum celebrates his music while also acknowledging the winding path of Cash’s life. You’ll see everything from the logbooks from his days in the Air Force to the chair he sat in for the sublime music video of Hurt .
• National Museum of African American Music – This is “the one that got away” for us, but with just a weekend in Nashville we couldn’t see everything . It’s a one-of-a-kind museum that showcases and preserves the deep influence and critical role African Americans played in the development of American music over time.
• Ryman Auditorium – While not technically a museum, the Ryman Auditorium is Nashville’s most storied music venue and a great place to witness history flowing into modernity. It was the original home of the Grand Ole Opry, which beamed country music to audiences around the country, and today hosts epic shows of all genres. The visit starts with a well-done movie and then moves into the Auditorium itself. We did the excellent guided tour, which also took us to the dressing rooms and included plenty of fun stories about the stars.

Explore Nashville history

While it’s often viewed as a one-dimensional party town, there are plenty of interesting historic sites in Nashville that are worth a visit.

We opted to visit the historic Belle Meade plantation, just 20 minutes from Downtown Nashville but certainly a world away. At its peak, the property covered more than 5000 acres and was a prominent stud farm in the thoroughbred racing world.

Thankfully Belle Meade has done an excellent job of sharing the lives and viewpoints of the people who were enslaved here in addition to the standard “plantation tourism”. The fascinating “Journey to Jubilee” tour was led by a historian who pulled no punches regarding the behavior and motivations of the plantation owner. He also asked questions that encouraged all of us on the tour to think critically about what we would have done if we had been enslaved at the time of emancipation and beyond.

Check out Nashville’s neighborhoods

Like so many cities, Nashville is comprised of many neighborhoods with distinctive flair. There’s so much beyond Downtown, so be sure to get out and explore! It’s one of the top options for what to do in Nashville, Tennessee.

One of the closest neighborhoods to Downtown is The Gulch, a trendy area full of hip restaurants and nice hotels. It’s a small area but nice to walk around. While you’re there, stop in for some food at Biscuit Love and consider taking in a bluegrass show at world-famous The Station Inn. If you’re staying Downtown, it’s an easy walk.

Head to Germantown to enjoy 19th century charm of Nashville’s first suburb – but updated to include great restaurants and interesting boutiques. This theme of redevelopment is playing out in many neighborhoods of Nashville and other major American cities. You can hear about Germantown’s history and present on this great Nashville food tour . Germantown is about a 10 minute Uber ride from Downtown.

12 South is another fun Nashville neighborhood to visit. It’s extremely walkable, it’s loaded with boutiques and eateries and there’s street art on just about every corner! While you’re there be sure to stop at Five Daughters Bakery. For a delicious locals-only lunch without the crowds, walk a few blocks off of 12th to Ladybird Tacos. Like Germantown, 12 South is a quick taxi ride from Downtown. We stopped here for a few hours on the way to Belle Meade , as 12 South is on the way.

Nashville travel tips

Overall we found Nashville a pretty easy city to visit, even with very little planning. But there are a few tips for planning a trip to Nashville that it’s worth keeping in mind:

• If you’re on an adults-only trip to Nashville, it’s easy to get by with Uber and Lyft rather than renting a car. It’s obviously important to drive only when you can do so safely, and it’s easier not to have to think about your sobriety. Parking can also be difficult and/or expensive in some parts of the city. On the flip side, if you’re visiting with kids you’ll probably be doing a lot of exploring far from Downtown so renting a car would be a better choice.
• Check the event calendars for popular music venues a week or two advance to give yourself plenty of options for what to see if you’re spending a weekend in Nashville. While there’s always live music in Nashville, ticketed shows sell out regularly even for under-the-radar performers.
• Pace yourself and stay hydrated. Even if you’re just having a drink or two while you listen to great music, it’s easy to run yourself ragged with so much walking in the heat and humidity most of the year.
• If you want to avoid some of Broadway crowds, cigarettes and smells, Demonbreun Street and Commerce Street run parallel just one block away on either side and are much, much more manageable.

Before you go…

Want to fly to Nashville and stay for free? That’s what we did thanks to smart “travel hacking” strategy! Find out more about the best travel credit cards for families to set you on the path to free travel.

The post 5 Great Things to do in Nashville (Besides Party) appeared first on The Family Voyage .

A Nashville guide for Beyoncé fans and new visitors: Six gems in Music City

Beyoncé 's new album " Cowboy Carter " appears to be a reclamation of country music, and it's led to interest from fans who haven't tuned in to the genre before. Naturally, those listeners are considering trips to the heart of country music — Nashville .

As a new resident of the city, I ventured to some beloved places around town and talked to some local experts. Whether you're visiting or hosting family and friends, here's a simple guide meant to appeal to new fans that features unique places in Music City, some of which have greatly influenced country music past and present.

Miranda Lambert's Casa Rosa

This lively eatery and honky-tonk is considered the first female artist-inspired restaurant and bar on Lower Broadway. Inspired by chart-topping country music superstar Miranda Lambert, the Tex-Mex eatery highlights her career and reflects her Texas roots.

The establishment spans multiple floors with unique pink decor. On a Saturday afternoon, a live country band played while patrons dined. The singer's influence is evident in the menu and art displayed throughout the place.

Of course, the Beyhive has been buzzing with speculation about whether artists like Lambert or Dolly Parton will be featured in some capacity on the new album, which comes out March 29.

Daniel X Diamond 

Longtime Los Angeles-based stylists Daniel Musto and Lani Lupton eventually arrived in Music City and founded the Daniel X Diamond clothing line. The brand is known for its cowboy core staples, mainly statement pieces embellished with fringe and rhinestones.

The brand has been sourced to some of the most prominent artists in the music industry, including Gwen Stefani , Shania Twain and Carrie Underwood . Beyoncé's oldest daughter, Blue Ivy Carter , was spotted in a Daniel X Diamond jacket in the 2023 "Renaissance" film.

I stopped by on a Saturday afternoon to try on some of the bedazzled pieces and speak with Musto, who referred to his business with Lupton as "our Sasha Fierce." Of course, the hive knows this references Beyoncé's alter ego.

"I've been a fan of Beyoncé forever, (and) I'm so excited now I can tell Alexa to play Beyoncé and all different genres of music pop up," he said. "She did all the really cool house music, country, and obviously pop, R&B and hip-hop."

Musto said the Grammy-award-winning singer began wearing this clothing style with her "Renaissance" album.

"She was introducing country-western through fashion only," he said. "If you think about it, she used fashion to tease music."

And while he is excited about Queen Bey's foray into country music and fashion, he acknowledged the lifestyle's roots.

"I just want to talk about Black culture in general, because that's where country music began," he said. "We always have to nod our cowboy hats to those who started something that's turned into this multibillion dollar business. And I think it's magical the woman at the top of the music industry is going back to her roots of Houston."

The Grand Ole Opry House

Dubbed the home of country music, the Grand Ole Opry has become a cultural landmark. Initially founded in 1925 by George D. Hay as a one-hour live radio show on WSM 650 AM, the Opry is the longest running radio broadcast in the U.S. Since 1974, the radio show has been housed in the Grand Ole Opry House — a 4,400-seat Opryland area venue that hosts several shows each week featuring some of country music's biggest names and rising stars. Artists including Dolly Parton, Darius Rucker, Johnny Cash, Garth Brooks, Loretta Lynn, Reba McEntire and Carrie Underwood have graced the stage.

The Opry holds several types of venue tours daily throughout the year. This month, it offered a Women of Country tour. Guests were greeted with mimosas before they journeyed through the halls where country music legends changed backstage and performed in front of thousands. This tour was a deep dive into all the women who have paved the way in the industry. Of course, guests didn't leave without stepping on the famous circle in the floor of the stage.

Slim & Husky's Pizza Beeria

Slim & Husky's is a Black-owned pizza shop. One location of the Nashville-area chain is located in the city's heart at the Fifth + Broadway complex. Amid the country music scene, the eatery boasts a love for hip-hop and R&B culture — not unlike Beyoncé.

"It's Music City, so we wanted to make sure we represent all music genres in Nashville," said co-founder Derrick "Mo" Moore. "R&B, hip-hop and soul happen to be (genres) we're attracted to, as well as country music."

Co-founder Clint Gray said it was important to open the location downtown.

"There's so many different Black country artists here in Nashville, and to have Beyoncé put a light onto country music from an African-American standpoint, just give them a big opportunity to grow, kind of shift that genre, you know, back to its roots," he said.

House of Adora

The House of Adora , or the "pink house," is a not-so-hidden gem East Nashville tucked into a residential neighborhood. Social media Beverly Griffith painted her home in 2021. Since then, it has become a Music City staple and an Instagram-worthy attraction.

For those from town or visiting, Griffith rents out her home for photoshoots, video shoots and everything in between. The pink house has been a go-to location for Nashville-favored country and pop singers like Maren Morris, Kacey Musgraves and Yola.

Station Inn 

The Station Inn is a small but mighty concert venue located near Nashville's Music Row and notable recording studios. The establishment has been deemed America's bluegrass hub. Bluegrass is a particular style of country music influenced by jazz and blues. It is often characterized by banjo and guitar playing coupled with high-pitched vocals.

Beyoncé's hit track "Texas Hold' Em" features MacArthur Fellow and Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Rhiannon Giddens on the banjo and viola. Before starting her solo career, Giddens founded and played in the country, blues and old-time music band the "Carolina Chocolate Drops." The group became the first Black string band to play the Grand Ole Opry. She has dedicated her career to educating the nation about the banjo and its roots in Black culture before becoming a predominantly white instrument.

Giddens also educated folks about the history of bluegrass, not solely a descendant of Scottish and Irish music but incorporating banjo and fiddle players from Africa, as well.

Marcus Dowling contributed to this story.

Follow Caché McClay, the USA TODAY Network's Beyoncé Knowles-Carter reporter, on  Instagram ,  TikTok  and  X  as @cachemcclay .

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The Nashville Luxury Hotel Guide

All the top hotels to know in Music City.

Over the past several years, Nashville has rapidly transformed into one of the most popular travel destinations in the country, with visitors eager to jet to the Tennessee capital and all it has to offer. There’s so much to do and see in the city, including attractions like the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Johnny Cash Museum and Nashville Parthenon in Centennial Park.

It’s called Music City for a reason, and you can find live music playing at the plethora of bars, Broadway honky tonks and iconic music venues including the Ryman Auditorium and Grand Ole Opry House at almost any hour of the day, but there’s also a growing art scene, noteworthy restaurants (and you simply can’t leave Nashville without a taste of the Southern city’s famous fried chicken) and an influx of charming boutiques , as well as plenty of new bars and luxury hotels.

Nashville’s hotel landscape has grown at a rather astounding rate; while the city was once short on five-star accommodations, it’s become a hotspot for luxurious hotels. If you’re planning a trip the American South to Music City, then you’ll need to make sure you’ve booked a stay at the best hotel for your visit. Below, see the top hotels to check out in Nashville.

The Best Luxury Hotels in Nashville, Tennessee

Four seasons hotel nashville, the hermitage hotel, the joseph, a luxury collection hotel, thompson nashville, noelle hotel, loews nashville hotel at vanderbilt plaza.

• 100 Demonbreun St, Nashville, TN 37201

The Four Seasons is a relatively new hotel to the Nashville scene; it debuted in 2022. The 235 hotel rooms are spread throughout the building's seventh through 14th floors, all with floor-to-ceiling windows that reveal views of the skyline, terrace or Cumberland River. The decor is classic Four Seasons—all modern furnishings, in a largely neutral color palette. Located in the downtown Nashville SoBro neighborhood, the Four Seasons offers two main restaurants: Mimo, which serves a Southern Italian menu, and Rivière Rooftop, a French-inspired eatery on the pool deck.

• 231 6th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37219

The historic Hermitage is one of the oldest hotels in Nashville, dating back to 1910. The five-star hotel, which is designated a National Historic Landmark, occupies a prime location in downtown Nashville, within walking distance to attractions including the Tennessee Performing Arts Centre, the Johnny Cash Museum, Nashville Convention Center and Bridgestone Arena. The hotel is comprised of 122 carefully restored rooms and suites, all of which are outfitted with traditional, neutral furnishings, as well as Frette linens and marble-bedecked bathrooms. Jean-Georges Vongerichten helms the two main restaurants the hotel: Drusie & Darr and The Pink Hermit. The hotel is also equipped with a fitness center, though there’s currently no spa access.

• 401 Korean Veterans Blvd, Nashville, TN 37203

The Joseph opened in August 2020, at a time when travel wasn't particularly high on many people's agendas. The high-end property, located in the SoBro neighborhood, is a part of Marriott’s Luxury Collection, but has more of a boutique hotel feel, with over 1,100 pieces of original art adorning the walls, courtesy of the hotel’s owners, the Pizzuti family. The immersive art experience begins right upon check-in, with a digital art wall and interactive sculpture in the courtyard porte-cochère and a custom leather front desk in reception with paneling by Lucchese and ceramic art. The Joseph is composed of 297 guest rooms and suites, with one main on-site restaurant, Yolan, an Italian eatery from Michelin-starred chef tony mantuano . The rooftop bar, Denim, sits on the 21st floor and offers impressive Nashville city views, which you can take in while sipping on a craft cocktail, and when it’s warm out, definitely take a dip in in the 50-foot saltwater rooftop pool. There’s also a sleek fitness center and spa.

• 401 11th Avenue S, Nashville, TN 37203

If you want to be right in the center of the Gulch neighborhood, then check in at the Thompson, located right in the midst of the ultra-trendy area. The Thompson Nashville, a part of Hyatt, houses 224 rooms and suites, featuring midcentury-inspired decor, sliding bar doors and floor-to-ceiling windows. Whether you’re a guest at the hotel or staying elsewhere, definitely try to get a reservation at Marsh Bar, the on-site restaurant. For drinks, head to L.A. Jackson, the indoor-outdoor rooftop bar with picturesque views of downtown Nashville, where you can also hear live music on weekends. If you want to venture outside of the hotel, then you won’t even need to get a rental car, as the property is within a short walking distance to Music Row, Broadway and the Honky Tonk Highway, and tons of restaurants and shops.

• 200 4th Avenue N, Nashville, TN 37219

The art-focused Noelle Hotel is another downtown Nashville gem, sitting in a 13-story building that dates back to the 1930s. While the property has been thoroughly transformed into a trendy 224-room hotel in the years since, the building pays tribute to its Art Deco origins and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. For dining, there’s the signature on-site restaurant, Makeready Libations & Liberation, as well as the Trade Room lobby bar and Rare Bird, the rooftop bar. There’s also a super cute coffee shop, Drug Store Coffee, which houses an impressive vinyl collection that plays on a custom system. Don’t forget to stop in Keep Shop, the hotel boutique, as Noelle brings in Nashville-based artisans and designers to create exclusive products and experiences. It’s super conveniently located, and is about a 10-minute walk to Music City Center and Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

• 2100 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203

If you’re looking for a very convenient and reliable hotel stay, consider the Loews Vanderbilt in Midtown. It’s been around since 1984, and there are 339 rooms and suites, all of which are outfitted with the expected flatscreen televisions and free wifi, as well as Julien Farel toiletries. It’s in a convenient location, and is sure to appeal to those who need to be close to Vanderbilt University, though it’s also a short ways away from the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Adventure Science Center and Bluebird Cafe.

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I brought my 73-year-old mother-in-law to Nashville. I was worried about the city's party reputation, but we found many ways to have fun.

• I visited Nashville for the first time with my wife and 73-year-old mother-in-law.
• Nashville has a party-animal reputation, but we found plenty of things to do outside the bars.
• We enjoyed live music, museums, and historic landmarks together. 

I live in Australia with my Texan wife, but we head to the US every year to visit her parents.

On each trip, we add a mini vacation with her mother. For our latest one, we spent four days in Nashville.

Considering it's famously a bachelor-trip destination — and one of the top cities Gen Z is moving to — we were worried about finding things for our older group to do amid a young, party atmosphere.

But we had one of the best trips ever. Although we did enjoy some live music at famous honky-tonk bars filled with partygoers, we found much more in Nashville.

Here are some of the best things we did on our trip.

Our first stop was the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

My wife and her mother are huge country-music fans, so we could have spent all day at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. There was much to learn about the early pioneers of country music and more recent contemporaries.

We added a tour of the famous RCA Studios to our museum visit, and I highly recommend it.

We got a behind-the-scenes look at where many music legends recorded and I even got to sit at one of Elvis Presley's favorite pianos.

Naturally, I did my best Elvis impersonation as I pretended to play it.

The Ryman Auditorium is the most iconic stage in music

Walking through the hallowed halls of Ryman Auditorium felt almost cathartic. I could tell why the historic live-music venue is known as the Mother Church of Country Music.

I closed my eyes and imagined the heroes that had graced the stage there, hearing legends such as Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton to modern-day idols like Taylor Swift.

It's hard to imagine a more beautiful venue.

The Johnny Cash Museum is also not to be missed

The Johnny Cash Museum has been called the No. 1 music museum in the United States .

I'd say it's a must for any music fan. Although small, we spent a few hours learning about the Man in Black, and I left with a "Cash for President" T-shirt.

There was history to take in outside of music, too

As an Australian, I had little knowledge of the history of plantations in the US and thought it was important to educate myself while visiting Nashville.

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We did a plantation tour of historic Belle Meade , which gave us insight into a darker past.

The Journey to Jubilee tour we booked explored the history of enslavement at Belle Meade and other plantations in Tennessee from its start and through the years following Emancipation.

It was a sobering, informative tour that's definitely worth a visit.

Food plays an important part in every trip, so we tried Nashville's famous hot chicken and barbecue

On our first night, we ate at Prince's , where hot chicken is believed to have originated. We were warned to go easy on the heat levels and settled on medium. I'm glad we did, as even that set my mouth on fire.

Despite the heat, it was delicious, and we went back for a second time during our trip.

One local we met told us to try Martin's BBQ Joint . I was wary as my bar is pretty high. I think Texas has the best barbecue in the world.

I'm glad we tried it. At Martin's, we had the best chicken wings and smoked sausage I've ever had. Sorry, Texas.

There were also plenty of sweet treats to taste

Just across from the Johnny Cash museum is Goo Goo Chocolate Co, home of the Goo Goo Cluster — the first combination candy bar made in the US.

At the store, visitors can greater their own clusters. It's well worth visiting.

Nashville also seems to have a very high doughnut-store-to-population ratio, so we visited several of them. We thought Five Daughters Bakery was the best we tried.

And, of course, we did some tastings of moonshine, a popular high-proof liquor in the state.

A visit to the Parthenon felt like a quick trip to Greece

Nashville's Parthenon is a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, Greece. The replica was built in 1897.

It's cool to see, and I also highly recommend visiting Centennial Park, where it's located, for a nice morning walk.

We also had to see a show at the Grand Ole Opry

The Grand Ole Opry is a weekly live country-music radio broadcast that's been running since 1925.

Each Opry show consists of eight or so different performers and showcases a variety of styles.

On the night we attended, we were fortunate to see Don Schlitz. He's written many famous songs, including one of my favorites, "The Gambler," famously recorded by K enny Rogers.

Singing along with Schlitz and several hundred others was the perfect way to end our trip.

Watch: Nashville's famous hot chicken was invented by a woman who was upset when her lover came back late one night

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