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10 Small Town Day Trips from Nashville

Travel to these conveniently located towns for an authentic slice of Tennessee.

Nashville is filled with music and entertainment. It’s also conveniently located to surrounding small towns offering an authentic slice of Tennessee through their outdoor attractions, restaurants and boutiques filled with locally-made products. The following small towns are located under a two-hour drive from Nashville’s downtown, perfectly located for a memorable day trip.

Franklin, Tennessee

If you love history, Franklin should be on your day trip list. Only 30 minutes south of Nashville, the town is meticulous about preserving the area’s history and telling the whole story. Hear how the Battle of Franklin occurred at the doors of several homes including Carter House , Lotz House and Carnton . These homes were transformed into Civil War field hospitals; the bloodstains of wounded soldiers can still be seen. After taking in some history, sample some brews along the  Masters & Makers Trail that winds through Williamson County. Have an unforgettable meal at Red Pony.

Kingston Springs, Tennessee

Adventure waits for you in Kingston Springs , only 30 minutes west of Nashville. Navigate your way through several obstacles at Adventureworks on the Aerial Adventure Course where you can climb, swing and walk across cables, ropes and logs. The canopy zipline tour also takes you from ridge top to ridge top. You can book a couples adventure that highlights team building obstacles and for a truly unique experience, book a Moonlight Tour where you’ll zip line through the forest with the moonlight to guide you. If you’d like to see what’s around each Harpeth River bend, Foggy Bottom Canoe & Kayak Rental will suit you up for a day on the water. The slow-moving rapids allow you to fully take in the beauty of Middle Tennessee . Fill your belly with delicious fare from the Fillin’ Station and cap off your day with a lesson in early Native American life at the Mound Bottom State Archaeological Area.

Gallatin, Tennessee

Travel only 40 minutes north of Nashville to Gallatin where you can spend the day browsing the cute boutiques on Main Street like Tennessee Honey , Sassy and Brassy and Southern Gypsies Boutique. Sculptures, framed art and textiles are all on display. Spend some time reconnecting with nature in Bledsoe Creek State Park with a hike on one of the seven trails. Keep your eyes peeled as you can see deer and 116 species of birds. Old Hickory Lake is great for fishing, boating and paddling along its 22,500 acres of water. Grab a meal at local restaurants like Swaney Swift's on the Square for classic hand-crafted burgers, fries and shakes, Starr Ranch for southern comfort food, and Awedaddys Bar & Grill on the banks of Old Hickory Lake open each spring, summer and fall. 

Columbia, Tennessee

Fifty minutes south of Nashville, Columbia is the home of the 11th U.S. president , a thriving art community and great eats. Start your morning with a cup of coffee and pastry or breakfast sandwich at Muletown Coffee Co. Explore the locally-made items at the shops housed in The Columbia Arts Building . Bad Idea Brewing offers a variety of beers and you can find beautiful bouquets at Bloom Stall. Art classes are also offered by local and regional artists. Spend some time at W7thCo Vintage Photo Gallery where you can browse photos from the town’s early years. End your day at James K. Polk Ancestral Home , which has the largest collection of the former president’s artifacts in the country.

Lynnville, Tennessee

A relaxing day welcomes you in Lynnville about an hour south of Nashville. In the adorable downtown area, you’ll find luxurious leather goods at Colonel Littleton . Each piece is hand-crafted by fashion designer Colonel Littleton to showcase the beauty of full grain American leather. Gift someone (or yourself) a purse, messenger bag, travel bag, belts, portfolios, phone cases and so much more. Meander over to Heirloom Glass to find timeless stained glass, antiques and glassware ranging from crystal pieces to pottery and coffee dishes. After hours spent shopping, have a meal at Soda Pop Junction featuring Big “Johnny” Burgers – hailed as Tennessee’s No. 1 Burger, a variety of sandwiches, salads and plates piled high with catfish, hamburger steak, pork chops, chicken strips and more. Cap off your day with a tasting of dry wines like Pinot Gris, Merlot and Cabernet Franc and fruit wines like strawberry, persimmon and lemon at Lexington Vineyard and Winery.

Pulaski, Tennessee

Travel to Pulaski, Tennessee - about an hour and 12 minutes away from Nashville - for this small town’s sweet surprises. Tour Frank Mars’ – the creator of Mars which includes M&Ms, Dove chocolate, 3 Musketeers, Milky Way and more – home at Milky Way Farms set on 1,000 acres of green pastures. Schedule a tour to see the home that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the barns; walk the trails and more. Catch a show at Staar Theatre , an opera house built in 1868. Explore the historic square and stop in for a meal at Second Street Coffeehouse. They offer breakfast and lunch in a laidback atmosphere. You’ll want to stop in to do a tasting at Big Creek Winery . Here, you’ll find a variety of wines from white muscadine to concord and Catawba. Their extensive fruit wines include apple, blackberry and cherry, pear, raspberry, cranberry and peach. Tastings are always free.

Smithville, Tennessee

An hour and 15 minutes east of Nashville is Smithville, Tennessee . Check out the local and regional art on display at the Appalachian Center for Craft . The center offers craft workshops, art for sale and a variety of exhibits showcasing functional art and sculptural works. Pull up a stool and have an old-fashioned milkshake and burger at Webb’s Pharmacy, Gift Shop & Soda Fountain. You’ll find live music and local brews at The Burlap Room Beer Garden and Taphouse. If you’d like to extend your stay, check into Evins Mill which offers comfortable rooms, hiking trails that lead to a beautiful waterfall, and delicious meals.

Waverly, Tennessee

Drive west an hour and 15 minutes from Nashville to the small town of Waverly for outdoor fun and entertainment. Make your way to Johnsonville State Historic Area where you can embark on an eight-mile trail, a two-mile trail that is sprinkled with Civil War-era forts and a half-mile African-American cemetery loop trail. 

Linden, Tennessee

Winding scenic roads lead you to Linden, Tennessee , located about an hour and a half west of Nashville. You’ll want to spend all day traveling the Buffalo River by kayak or canoe. The Buffalo River is the longest free-flowing river in Middle Tennessee and flows 125 miles. Buffalo River Resort offers are variety of rentals from canoes to inflatable and hard shell kayaks, inner tubes and rafts. They even offer overnight moonlight floats for those who want to extend their stay. Mousetail Landing State Park has loads of outdoor activities as well including five hiking trails and two mountain bike trails. Fishing, swimming, boating and paddling are also available. Have a meal and listen to some music at the Commodore Hotel & Cafe . Fried buttermilk chicken, burgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, fried green tomatoes and much more make up the menu.

Lynchburg, Tennessee

An hour and a half outside of Nashville, the drive to Lynchburg is picturesque and, once you arrive, the fun is nonstop. Kick off your visit with a stroll through Tims Ford State Park on some of the 6.5 miles of unpaved hiking trails. Seven miles of paved biking trails connect to the major areas of the park. Explore the multi-use mountain biking trail that runs along the shoreline of Tims Ford Reservoir. Take a tour to see how the world’s leading whiskey is made at Jack Daniel’s Distillery . Browse unique history at the Moore County Jail Museum . Pick up a unique piece at one of the many shops lining Main Street. Before you head back to the city, stop in Miss Mary Bobo’s for family-style, country dining or dig into perfectly smoked barbecue at Barrel House BBQ .

Next time you’re in Nashville , spend a day exploring one of the small towns located within a two-hour drive from Music City’s downtown.

Places in this article

Barrel House BBQ

Barrel House BBQ 2012 - Opened Barrel House BBQ           2013 ~ Featured on BBQ Pitmasters® television show           2014 ~ Voted Top 5 Best BBQ in TN            2015 ~ Additional Seating Inside and Out           2016 - Opened up the Wall Come join us!

Miss Mary Bobo's Restaurant

A Southern Dining Experience Unlike Any Other

Lynchburg Old Jail Museum

Old Jail Museum Lynchburg Tennessee

Jack Daniel Distillery

Enjoyed around the world, made in Lynchburg, Tennessee, Jack Daniels whiskey is matured in handcrafted, white oak barrels, in the nations oldest registered distillery. Personally guided tours are a part of the ambiance.

Tims Ford State Park

Located on the Tims Ford Reservoir, the 2,200-acre Tims Ford State park sits in the shadows of the Cumberland Plateau in south-central Tennessee. The Tims Ford Lake is considered one of the most picturesque lakes in Tennessee and is regarded as one of the

Buffalo River Resort

A great get away for a few days or a few weeks.

Mousetail Landing State Park

This 1,247-acre area is located on the east banks of the Tennessee River. Tradition has it that Mousetail Landing received its name during the Civil War period when one of the area's tanning companies caught fire. The exodus of mice fleeing the burning ta

Commodore Music Café

Small Town Service With Big Time Flavor. Classic Southern Comfort Foods with an Eclectic Twist. Live Entertainment and Bar.

Johnsonville State Historic Park

Johnsonville State Historic Park is named for former President Andrew Johnson and Union Military Governor during the Civil War. This 2000-acre park located in Humphreys County, commemorates the site of the Battle of Johnsonville and the historic town site

Appalachian Center for Craft

Visit the Appalachian Center for Craft and explore the art of contemporary fine craft.

Evins Mill is a small resort property near Center Hill Lake, offering the amenities of a luxury destination in the intimate setting of a bed & breakfast.

STAAR Theatre at Antoinette Hall

STAAR Theatre@Antoinette Hall stages live theatrical and musical productions for adults and children in an historic building.

Big Creek Winery Tasting Room

Big Creek Winery Tasting Room - Wines made locally from whole fruit. Come taste the uniqueness.

Milky Way Farms

Milky Way Farm was built on the success of a 5 cent candy bar. Today we host activities and events to protect this historic treasure. Check out our website or Facebook page for upcoming events or call / text 931-808-2281

Colonel Littleton

A label that launched in 1987 selling antique cufflinks, Col. Littleton stands for Americana roots and designs destined to become heirlooms.

Soda PopJunction

James k. polk home and museum.

W7thCo Vintage Photo Gallery

Fine art black and white photography: Americana, award winning art, news, crime, advertising and portrait photography that dates back 150 years.

Awedaddys Bar & Grill

Great waterfront restaurant in Gallatin

Bledsoe Creek State Park

Bledsoe Creek State Park is rich in history. It was once a prime hunting ground for the Cherokee, Creek, Shawnee and Chickamauga Native American tribes. Once English settlers arrived to the area, the once great herds of animals were dispersed, never to re

Foggy Bottom Canoe Rentals

Adventureworks, Inc

Fillin' Station

Located next to point 15, this local bar serves amazing pork shoulder sandwiches and BBQ quesadillas.

Franklin Theatre

The new Franklin Theatre continues the cherished tradition of showing movies, but also adds a new dimension to Main Street – live music.

Mantra Artisan Ales

Craft Brewery in Franklin!

Learn How the Civil War Redefined America

The Carter House

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• Last Minute

25 Best Day Trips from Nashville, TN

Last Updated By VacationIdea Staff on March 18, 2024

1 Mammoth Cave Parkway, Mammoth Cave National Park, KY 42259, Phone: 270-758-2180

More ideas: Smoky Mountains Campgrounds

1437 Cumberland Caverns Rd, McMinnville, TN 37110-4673, Phone: 931-668-4396

More ideas: Day Trips from Chattanooga

More ideas: Things to Do in the Great Smoky Mountains

More ideas: Day Trips from Knoxville, TN

More ideas: Family-Friendly Things to Do in Tennessee

More ideas: Tennessee Beaches

44 Hurricane Mills Rd, Hurricane Mills, TN 37078-2147, Phone: 931-296-7700

82 Beach Rd, Rock Island, TN 38581-4200, Phone: 931-686-2471

More ideas: Waterfalls in Tennessee

1140 Columbia Ave, Franklin, TN 37064-3617, Phone: 615-791-1861

328 Cedar Forest Rd, Lebanon, TN 37090-7678, Phone: 615-443-2769

More ideas: Things to Do in Lebanon

More ideas: Smoky Mountain Getaways

More ideas: Day Trips from Tennessee

1311 Gilkey Run Rd, Bardstown, KY 40004-2201, Phone: 502-337-1000

182 Lynchburg Hwy, Lynchburg, TN 37352-7452, Phone: 931-759-6357

1 Broad St, Aquarium Plaza, Chattanooga, TN 37402-1023, Phone: 800-262-0695

732 Stone Fort Dr, Manchester, TN 37355-3024, Phone: 931-723-5073 , ( website link )

10821 Park Rd, Pikeville, TN 37367, Phone: 423-881-5298

More ideas: Things to do in Gallatin

Travelers who want a real taste of the outdoors can opt to stay at one of the park’s camping sites or hook up at RV parks in the area. 1020 Jackson Hill Road, Burns, Tennessee 37029; Phone: 615-797-9052

3300 Old Clarksville Spgfld Rd, Adams, TN 37010-8911, Phone: 800-250-8614

• 1. Mammoth Cave National Park (1 hour 20 min)
• 2. Stones River National Battlefield (35 min)
• 3. Cumberland Caverns (1 hour 35 min)
• 4. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area (1 hour 40 min)
• 5. Abraham Lincoln Boyhood Home at Knob Creek (2 hour 10 min)
• 6. Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park (2 hours 10 min)
• 7. US Space and Rocket Museum (1 hour 50 min)
• 8. Dunbar Cave State Park
• 9. Loretta Lynn's Ranch (1 hour 10 min Day Trip from Nashville)
• 10. Rock Island State Park (1 hour 35 min)
• 11. Historic Diamond Caverns (1 hour 20 min)
• 12. Carter House (30 min)
• 13. Cedars of Lebanon State Park (35 min)
• 14. Rock City Gardens (2 hours 5 min)
• 15. Obed Wild and Scenic River (2 hours)
• 16. Natchez Trace Parkway (3 hours 30 min)
• 17. Bourbon Heritage Center (2 hours 20 min)
• 18. Jack Daniel Distillery
• 19. Tennessee Aquarium (2 hour Day Trip from Nashville)
• 20. Old Stone Fort State Park (1 hour)
• 21. Fall Creek Falls State Park (2 hours)
• 22. Cathedral Caverns State Park (2 hours 20 min)
• 23. Montgomery Bell State Park
• 24. Port Royal State Historic Area (45 min Day Trip from Nashville, TN)

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• June 24, 2023

9 Fun Things to Do Near Nashville, TN: Best Places to Visit Nearby!

Aching for some creative short trip ideas from Nashville? 

Luckily for you, there are numerous cool and exciting things to do near Nashville, TN

Set right in the heart of Tennessee, Nashville is surrounded by historical and contemporary attractions that are ripe for a quick adventure. 

Whether you’re traveling alone or with your family, these wonders near Nashville will definitely satisfy your wanderlust. 

1. Radnor Lake State Park 

Radnor Lake Oak Hill, TN 37027

There’s nothing more refreshing than a nature trip in a scenic and verdant park.

That’s why I always recommend Radnor Lake for anyone looking for relaxing places to see near Nashville. 

Surrounded by picture-perfect steep hills, this state park beckons vacation-goers with its tranquil feel and natural beauty. 

Why we recommend going here 

The park is praised for its picturesque topography, serene lake setting and fragrant spring flora.

Furthermore, it offers a few fun free and cheap activities to its visitors. For one, it has over 12 miles of trails for those who are into nature walks. 

For animal lovers, the park lets you spot native wildlife, including the white-tailed deer, coyote, bobcat, beavers and river otters. 

And, with its fresh breeze and easygoing vibe, it’s also one of the most romantic places to visit near Nashville.   

Distance from Nashville 

Surprisingly, the park is just a quick drive away from Nashville.

Just take I-65 S, and you’ll arrive at the park in 17 minutes (10.7 miles). 

Recommended Hotel Near Radnor Lake State Park: Baymont by Wyndham Nashville/Brentwood

2. Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage 

4580 Rachels Ln Hermitage, TN 37076

Home to the nation’s 7th president, Andre Jackson’s Hermitage is the 3rd most visited presidential home in the US.

With its historical significance, it’s also, to me, one of the top attractions near Nashville, Tennessee. 

Why recommend going here 

It’s a National Historic Landmark that features stunning gardens, walking trails, a wagon tour and over 30 old buildings.

Plus, this famous attraction is deemed as the country’s best preserved early presidential home. 

On top of it all, it has interpretive programs and initiatives that can enhance your experience. 

There are buses from Central 4th Ave that will take you to Lebanon Pike & Dr NB, the closest stop to the historic home.

We don’t recommend this route, though, since it takes a lot of time. 

For a faster and more convenient trip, drive via I-40 E from downtown Nashville.

Distance is 15.9 miles and travel time is 20 minutes. 

Recommended Hotel Near Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage: Wingate by Wyndham Nashville Airport

Related: Best Things to Do in Nashville

3. Moss-Wright Park 

745 Caldwell Dr Goodlettsville, TN 37072 (615) 851-2241

Moss-Wright Park is our favorite weekend getaway near Nashville.

We love it because it lets people reconnect with nature, enjoy a picnic as well as admire the surrounding lush landscapes. 

It’s a hidden gem and a family-friendly park with plenty of picnic areas.

Even better, it has other features that can make your trip more fun, including a walking trail and a children’s playground.

To my surprise, the park also has a small library where you can read books for free. 

The park is 16.2 miles away from Nashville via I-65 N.

On average, the drive will take around 18 minutes.

Recommended Hotel Near Moss-Wright Park: Candlewood Suites Nashville – Goodlettsville

Related: Things to Do in Nashville with Kids

4. Jump Street 

1000 Rivergate Pkwy Suite 2030 Goodlettsville, TN 37072 (615) 756-4098

We just can’t get enough of Jump Street.

For hours, this action-packed trampoline park will entertain you with its numerous trampolines and fun diversions. 

Why we recommend going there 

No list of the cool places to go near Nashville with kids is complete without Jump Street.

It’s, after all, one of the few places in the area where you can bounce off a wall of superior quality trampolines. 

And, did I mention that it has other indoor attractions, like a snow slide, obstacle course, maze, and a bull ride? 

You can get to this trampoline park in 16 minutes from Nashville via I-65 N.

Distance of the route is around 14 miles.  

Recommended Hotel Near Jump Street: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Goodlettsville N – Nashville

5. Goodlettsville Antique Mall 

213 N Main St Goodlettsville, TN 37072 (615) 859-7002

Looking for unique things to do and see near Nashville ?

Here’s my advice for you: drop by Goodlettsville Antique Mall.

Although not a renowned attraction, you can easily spend hours here either window shopping or hunting vintage and antique treasures. 

It’s arguably the best antique store near Nashville.

Not only is it a massive store, but it’s also clean and well organized.

And, best of all, they only sell authentic antiques and not any consignment trite. 

To me, the mall opens an opportunity for you to own a piece of history with antique pieces created in the bygone eras.

Don’t be surprised to find a treasure trunk, Stickler Windsor Chair, or a skull collection. 

The mall is an easy and short 17-minute drive (14.9 miles) from downtown Nashville via I-65 N. 

Recommended Hotel Near Goodlettsville Antique Mall: Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Nashville North Goodlettsville

6. Extreme Escape Games 

1735 Galleria Blvd #1015 Franklin, TN 37067 (615) 332-5535

Extreme Escape Games, designed by clever puzzle masters, offer an exciting experience in Franklin, TN.

Trust me, these themed escape rooms will get your adrenaline pumping.

And, guess what?

It will also help improve your problem solving skills. 

Extreme Escape is the perfect bonding experience with your family or friends.

In my opinion, it’s a fun team-building exercise with a dash of adventure.

Once the timer starts, you need to think and work together with the other people in the room, to find clues and solve the puzzle. 

Also, the setting of the room is pretty realistic. 

The fastest route from Nashville to Extreme Escape Games is via I-65 S.

The route’s distance is 15.5 miles and travel time is usually 17 minutes. 

Recommended Hotel Near Extreme Escape Games: Hilton Franklin Cool Springs

7. Twelve Stones Golf Club

1201 W 12 Stones Crossing Goodlettsville, TN 37072 (615) 239-8945

Itching to play a game of golf? Why not make a pit-stop to Twelve Stones Golf Club on your Tennessee vacation?

And, you don’t have to worry if you need to work on your swing since it caters to both amateur and pro golfers. 

Twelve Stones Golf Club features 18 championship holes with a fairly challenging layout and green manicured grass.

And, even if you’re not an avid golf aficionado, you’ll still love the gorgeous vistas of the golf course.

Plus, it has a restaurant that serves mouth-watering American classic dishes. 

The golf club can be accessed via I-65 N from Nashville.

Even though there are other options, we prefer to take this route, as it’s faster and easier.

Depending on the traffic, travel time is 17 minutes and distance is 16.8 miles. 

Recommended Hotel Near Twelve Stones Golf Club: Comfort Suites At Rivergate Mall

8. Long Hollow Winery 

665 Long Hollow Pike Goodlettsville, TN 37072 (615) 859-5559

Long Hollow is a godsend for wine lovers. Unique and beautiful, this winery offers delightful fines as well as a photogenic setting. 

The winery offers will appease your taste buds with wine varieties, like Muscadine, Concord, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

Our favorite wine blends here include the Strawberry and Blackberry fruit wines. 

Additionally, it has a laid-back ambiance and a monastery-like design. 

You don’t have to drive far to get to this classy winery.

Just hit I-65 N, and you’ll arrive at this winery in 18 minutes (distance is 15.9 miles). 

Recommended Hotel Near Long Hollow Winery: Days Inn by Wyndham Goodlettsville Nashville

9. Providence Marketplace 

401 S Mt Juliet Rd Mount Juliet, TN 37122 (248) 592-6934

Want to go on a little shopping spree? I suggest that head to Providence Marketplace in Mount Juliet.

With a diverse selection of shops, it’s the perfect blend of affordable and upscale shopping in one spot. 

It’s the largest open-air shopping center in the entire region with endless options for shopping.

Whether you’re in the mood for al fresco dining or fast-food, the center also has a variety of delicious food choices to appease your palate. 

Like all of America’s top malls, it hosts year-round events.

In fact, it has a series of outdoor concerts from May to July. 

Providence Marketplace is 18.1 miles away from Nashville via I-40 E.

It usually takes 19 minutes to complete this driving route.

Recommended Hotel Near Providence Marketplace: Courtyard by Marriott Nashville Mount Juliet

9 Fun Things to Do that Are Near Nashville, TN for 2024

• Radnor Lake State Park
• Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage
• Moss-Wright Park
• Jump Street
• Goodlettsville Antique Mall
• Extreme Escape Games
• Twelve Stones Golf Club
• Long Hollow Winery
• Providence Marketplace

Nashville   Travel Guide

Courtesy of SeanPavonePhoto | Getty Images

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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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.)

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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.

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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.

Grand Ole Opry House Guided Backstage Tour

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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. 

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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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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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Meghan Kraft

Meghan Kraft loves to travel the world, but she makes her home right here in Nashville, Tennessee. She holds a degree in English, and has worked in the digital marketing realm with companies such as Apartments.com, USA Today and HarperCollins Publishing.

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Are you ready for a road trip?  Well, these are some of the best small towns near Nashville, TN and they are just a stone’s throw from the center of the city. Whether their population swings toward big or small, they have the perfect small-town feel. You don’t want to miss out on a day trip to these darling spots. Who knows? You may decide to make one of these lovely Tennessee towns your new home!

17. Bell Buckle

16. College Grove

15. Franklin

14. Cottontown

13. Ashland City

12. Leipers Fork

11. White House

10. Nolensville

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9. watertown.

8. Spring Hill

6. Greenbrier

5. Goodlettsville

3. Wartrace

1. Springfield

So, what do you think? Are these the best small towns near Nashville, TN ? Did you know about these Nashville-area towns? Did we miss your favorite small town near Nashville? Whatever it is, tell us! Share a few of your favorite small towns near you.

If you’re still looking for some interesting things to do around the city, we suggest checking out these unique things to do in Nashville . And if you’re interested in hanging out for the weekend, consider a stay at the  Sheraton Grand Nashville Downtown .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Out and about near nashville.

Where can we find historic Civil War sites near Nashville?

• The Travellers Rest Historic House Museum was the headquarters of Confederate General John Bell Hood during the Battle of Nashville.
• Fort Negley as built by Union troops after they commandeered the city in victory in 1862.
• Shy's Hill played a key role in the Battle of Nashville as it is where the Union forces defeated the Confederate army.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other fascinating historic Civil War sites in Nashville.

What are some fun facts about Nashville?

• The Tennessee Capital Building is one of the oldest operating capitals in the U.S.
• Over 200 Elvis songs were recorded at Nashville’s RCA Studio B.
• The only scale replica of the Greek Parthenon is in Centennial Park.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other fun facts about Nashville.

Where can we find river towns in Tennessee?

• Tiptonville, located between the Mississippi River and Blue Basin has managed to maintain its small-town ambiance since its early founding.
• Chattanooga is one of the state’s favorite river towns, although it is really considered to be a “big city.”
• Clifton is a charming little town set alongside the Tennessee River and a big draw for those desiring to get away from it all.

Read on to learn more about some of the other beautiful river towns in Tennessee.

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• 7 Most Beautiful Small Towns Near Nashville

Surrounding the entertainment-filled Music City of Nashville are small beautiful towns, each offering a unique slice of authentic Tennessee . These scenic enclaves comprise a convenient escape to outdoor attractions, restaurants, and boutiques filled with locally-made products.

Bell Buckle

Bell Buckle is a beautiful little town in the heart of Tennessee, about an hour southeast of Nashville. The homey railroad village is full of feel-good pursuits, with arts and crafts along the streets and many stores to shop for antiques. Bell Buckle downtown calls for strolls in pure wonder amidst stunning Victorian buildings and churches. Tourists flock to the town for the annual RC Cola and Moon Pie Festival, with many pretty historic inn options for a night's stay. 

Bell Buckle sits in quaint surroundings of rolling hillsides dotted by farms and stables for the best ventures and picnics in the embrace of the southern sun and charm. Horse fans visit for the equestrian history and many displays and exhibits at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum south of town. With less than 700 residents, Bell Buckle captures the true essence of a Tennessee small town.

Columbia is a beautiful thriving town about 45 minutes away from Nashville. It is essentially a "Main Street community" with a concentrated Town Square housing most sights, activities, and attractions. There are many places to peruse and sit outside for people-watching within a lively atmosphere under the gentle southern sun. Main Street hosts unique boutiques and antique shops, along with cool restaurants and cafes for dinners with country music. Other than the massive Mule Day celebration in April, Franklin's quaint streets are perfect for strolling with unobscured views. Grab a pastry and coffee-to-go from the Muletown Coffee Co. and check out the art displays and beautiful bouquets at the Bloom Stall.

Renowned for spectacular fall foliage, Columbia’s countryside alights the town in a scenic spectacle. Take a discovery stroll along the many miles of railroad tracks from the 1900s, strewn with old landmarks of the heyday. Check out the W7thCo Vintage Photo Gallery, the Columbia Arts Building with locally-made items for sale, or learn art at one of the many classes offered by local and regional artists. The town was home to the "dark horse" president, James K. Polk with his legacy in the Ancestral Home's largest collection of the country. Columbia is a perfect escape from the big city for a taste of the Victorian South. In the evening, try a variety of beers at Bad Idea Brewing, and stay at the thematic Blythewood Inn Bed and Breakfast historic mansion.

The perfect pick for history sight-seekers, the charming town of Franklin calls for a scenic day trip 30 minutes south of Nashville. Its meticulously-preserved atmosphere of the bygone days complements the rich hospitality and modern pursuits amidst more-traditional attractions. Wander the scene of the Battle of Franklin with notable stops such as the Carter House, Lotz House, and Carnton, transformed into Civil War field hospitals and still bloodstained from wounded soldiers.

After the somber stroll, the happy hour calls for unique brews along the Masters and Makers Trail through Williamson County, but not before an unforgettable meal from the Red Pony. The small town consistently ranks among the best in the US and the most picturesque in Tennessee. It boasts a charming Main Street with a wide selection of stores and restaurants scattered in-between historical sites. Choose any of the B&Bs in old buildings for a magical night's stay, a stone-throw away from the downtown scene.

Gallatin is the ideal town to reconnect with nature, only 40 minutes northeast of Nashville. The bounding Bledsoe Creek State Park is a hiker’s dream with seven different trails, many deer, and 116 species of birds. There is also the 22,500-acre Old Hickory Lake, great for fishing, boating, and paddling through glimmering waters. The local Swaney Swift's on the Square is a classic restaurant with picture-perfect craft burgers, fries, and shakes that taste even better than they look.

Spend the day shopping and browsing through the many cute boutiques lining Main Street such as Tennessee Honey, Sassy and Brassy, and Southern Gypsies Boutique, with everything from sculptures to framed art, and textiles to bring home. The Starr Ranch is the destination for southern comfort food, while the Awedaddys Bar and Grill is on the lake’s banks for a scenically-enriched meal.

Leipers Fork

Tiny Leipers Fork is the central base of the vastly-renowned Natchez Trace National Park . There are 444 miles worth of exploring via hiking, biking, hikers, horseback riding, or even backpacking ventures through three states with camping along the way. Leipers Fork's cute downtown area is home to the very-first Puckett's Grocery.

The town just outside of Nashville and Franklin is home to 650 residents, with only 1,100 acres to its name. It is a great pit stop along the scenic winding country road for the most-known grain-to-glass spirits, especially the traditional Tennessee whiskey. Walk the streets to discover boutique shops, restaurants, and cozy B&Bs that resemble old-timey Tennessee.

The lead-up to this charming town an hour and a half west of Nashville is vividly-scenic as Linden spreads along the Buffalo River . Adventure seekers enjoy refreshing kayak and canoe rides through some of the state’s most-lush scenery. The Buffalo River Resort has a variety of boat rentals and even overnight moonlight floats for the most unforgettable time spent stargazing from the dark waters that will eventually lull you to sleep.

The nearby Mousetail Landing State Park includes scenic outdoor pursuits along five shaded hiking trails and two mountain bike trails, where the water fans enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, and paddling. While the fresh air is great, it only racks up the appetite for a filling meal. Choose from fried buttermilk chicken, burgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, fried green tomatoes, and more, at the music-filled Commodore Hotel and Cafe.

The quiet small town is picture-perfect with a complex history dating to the days of the Civil War and Restoration era. It is known as "Tennessee’s Wild Turkey Capital" for the large population of "Thanksgiving" animals and different bird species. April brings about the hunting season to Giles County, followed by a lively banquet and auction right in Pulaski. The historic downtown only an hour and 15 minutes away from Nashville boasts well-preserved public and commercial buildings for perusing and pastimes, with many homes on the National Register of Historic Places . There is the Elks Theatre and Christ Episcopal Church from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, respectively.

The must-visit Milky Way Farm is the historic estate of confectionary legend Frank Mars who created world-sold delicacies of Mars such as M&Ms, Dove chocolate, 3 Musketeers, and more. The farm spreads over 1,000 acres of green pastures to stroll and stack up on treats to go with a drink from the Second Street Coffeehouse back in town. After a day hike along the town's trails, head for an evening show at the Staar Theatre opera house opened in 1868. The nearby Big Creek Winery is a must for the white muscadine, concord, or Catawba, along with free tastings of the extensive fruit wines such as apple, blackberry and cherry, pear, raspberry, cranberry, and peach.

These beautiful towns are full of nature and feel-good pursuits on a refreshing getaway from the big city . The historic downtowns with decorated streets and music-filled establishments will make you feel right at home, in the real heart of Tennessee.

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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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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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!

Closest Beaches to Nashville to Add to Your Bucket List

Does the thought of warmer weather have you eager to visit a nearby beach? The downtown Nashville area is full of so many popular attractions and fun things to do. But, sometimes you just want to get away to soak up the sun on a sandy beach.

Whether you’re looking for a beach getaway in Florida, South Carolina, Alabama, or even at a local state park, our post on the best beaches close to Nashville has you covered! In this article, we break down the top closest beaches near Nashville, TN, including the estimated driving times to each one. So, continue reading below for the best Nashville beaches to add to your beach vacation planning list!

Nashville Beaches

Before we jump into all the tropical beach spots close to Nashville, let’s discuss some of the best places you can visit locally. Tennessee is home to some of the most beautiful lakes in the Southeast. And many of these offer sandy beaches, picnic areas, and water sports for the whole family to enjoy.

While the beaches may not look like the photo above, these Tennessee lakes provide plenty of fun in the sun. So, don’t feel like you have to travel across the country when you can visit miles of shoreline at one of Nashville’s nearby lakes and rivers. Some of the most popular spots in Nashville to enjoy a day on the sand (or in the water) are the following:

• Douglas Lake
• Norris Lake
• Kentucky Lake
• Old Hickory Lake
• Tims Ford State Park
• Center Hill Lake

With available activities like beach volleyball, water skiing, horseback riding, and more, the lakes above offer easy access to beaches close to Nashville. For more information on the family friendly lakes in the area, we highly recommend checking out our post on the Best Lakes in Tennessee for Kids !

Ocean Beaches Near Nashville

If a day at a local Nashville beach isn’t going to cut it, you have plenty of options for real beaches near Nashville. The list below provides an overview of the most popular beaches in the Southeast that are just a short drive away from Nashville, Tennessee.

So, if you’re looking for the closest beaches to Nashville, we’ve come up with a selection of the most beautiful beaches near the Music City and the surrounding area. Check out our list of the best beaches near Nashville below, including the approximate driving time to each great destination!

Pensacola Beach, Florida

With a short drive time of 6 hours 43 minutes , Pensacola wins the medal for the closest beach to Nashville. Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Pensacola Beach is a great place to visit for those wanting a nice beach near Nashville. With white sand beaches and lots of local dining options, Pensacola Beach is both a convenient vacation destination and a fun beach getaway for the whole family.

Perdido Key, FL

Located just west of Pensacola Beach, Perdido Key is another great spot for those looking for beaches near Nashville with short driving times. Since it’s only 7 hours away, you can enjoy a beach day in paradise in the early afternoon hours after a morning drive from Nashville. Perdido Key sits super close to the Alabama border and offers convenient access to the nearby beach communities of Pensacola Beach and Orange Beach.

Santa Rosa Beach, Florida

Santa Rosa Beach, Florida sits in the Florida panhandle just east of Sandestin. With an estimated drive time of 7 hours 5 minutes from Nashville, Santa Rosa Beach is the perfect place to book a beach vacation. One of the best things about Santa Rosa Beach is it’s less touristy than the neighboring Sandestin area.

However, you can easily access the fun attractions and great dining spots in the nearby community. For some ideas on ways to spend a fun day in Santa Rosa Beach, we recommend checking out our post on the Best Things to Do in Santa Rosa Beach with Kids .

Watercolor, Florida

If you’re interested in splurging on a luxurious beach vacation near Nashville, we highly recommend checking out WaterColor, Florida . At just over a 7 hour drive from Nashville, WaterColor gets my family’s vote for the best beach near Nashville for kids! The beach community of Watercolor offers guests exclusive access to the Watercolor Beach Club and Camp Watercolor.

Watercolor Beach Club features multiple pools and dining options that are located right on the beach. Camp Watercolor is a great place for families traveling with kids as it features pools with water slides, dining options, and a playground. The town of Watercolor is also a short walk away from Seaside, giving guests access to even more shopping venues and restaurants.

Destin, Florida

Destin, Florida is probably one of the most popular beaches close to Nashville. With a drive time of 7 hours 6 minutes , Destin is easily accessible to residents of the Music City. It also offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the world! If you’re looking for white sand and crystal clear water , Destin is the perfect spot for you.

With plenty of dining options and kid-friendly attractions, Destin is a great spot for families looking for a beach getaway close to Nashville. For a list of our favorite spots in the area, you can check out our post on the Best Beaches in Destin, Florida .

Miramar Beach, FL

Miramar Beach, Florida is a short 7 hours 6 minutes from Nashville, and it offers an ideal vacation spot. Sitting between Destin and Sandestin, Miramar Beach allows easy access to all the nearby fun and restaurants. Visitors to Miramar Beach also love hitting up the nearby outlet mall for some of the best shopping in the Destin area!

Orange Beach, Alabama

Orange Beach, AL is just 7 hours 10 minutes from Nashville, Tennessee, and it features a more laid-back vibe than the Destin area beaches. With lots of great spots to enjoy fresh seafood and plenty of space to lay out on the beach, Orange Beach is quickly becoming a family favorite.

Seaside, Florida

The town of Seaside, FL is located just 7 hours 10 minutes away from Nashville, TN. This quaint beach community features picture perfect beaches and lots of local fun for the whole family. Visitors to Seaside love visiting the Central Square where you can find restaurants, shops, and live entertainment.

This bustling area features lots of food trucks and seasonal activities for families. If you don’t want to miss out on any of the fun Seaside has to offer, you can check out our post on the Best Things to Do in Seaside, Florida !

Sandestin, FL

Located between Pensacola Beach and Panama City Beach, the town of Sandestin boasts picturesque beaches and lots of fun attractions. Since the drive from Nashville is only 7 hours 11 minutes , Sandestin sits in a prime spot for those looking for beaches close to Nashville.

With plenty of dining and shopping options at Grand Boulevard Town Center, Sandestin offers great spots for any type of visitor. Families also enjoy spending time at The Village of Baytowne Wharf where you’ll find all sorts of restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment. Kids especially love The Village of Baytowne Wharf for its carousel, playground, ropes course, arcade, and other activities.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores, Alabama is located just 7 hours 13 minutes from the Nashville area. While the water isn’t quite as clear as that in Sandestin and 30A, Gulf Shores features beautiful beaches and a convenient location to Nashville. Visitors especially enjoy spending time at The Wharf in Gulf Shores where you’ll find lots of shopping and dining options. And kids love riding the massive Ferris wheel at the entrance to The Wharf!

Rosemary Beach, Florida

Rosemary Beach is located along 30A on the gulf coast of Florida. With an estimated drive time of 7 hours 17 minutes , Rosemary Beach offers a quaint beach community with beautiful water and white sand. Visitors to Rosemary Beach love to stroll along the cobblestone streets of this adorable town while enjoying the local dining options and boutique shops nearby.

↓↓ Check Out My Etsy Shop ↓↓

Panama City Beach, FL

Panama City Beach is a popular spot for spring breakers, but families also flock to this area each year. If you’re looking for beaches near Nashville, Panama City Beach is only a 7 hour 35 minute drive from the Music City. With plenty of attractions, restaurants, and shopping options, Panama City Beach is a great beach getaway for those wanting to stay in the action.

Tybee Island, Georgia

Sitting on the Atlantic Ocean, Tybee Island is a great option for Nashville residents looking for a beach that’s not on the Gulf of Mexico. With an estimated drive time of 8 hours 16 minutes , Tybee Island is still close enough to Nashville for an easy day’s drive. This beautiful coastal community offers wide beaches, amazing restaurants, and fun activities. It’s also located just a short 20 minute drive from downtown Savannah, Georgia.

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Located just north of Tybee Island and 45 minutes from Savannah, Hilton Head Island is a popular tourist spot for families in the Nashville area. With an estimated drive time of 8 hours 22 minutes from the Music City, Hilton Head is still easily accessible for Nashville residents. Hilton Head is a great spot for a beach getaway since it offers beautiful beaches and nearby activities. From live music to sports to local restaurants, Hilton Head Island features plenty of things to do for the whole family.

Cape San Blas, Florida

Located east of Panama City Beach, Cape San Blas features a completely different vibe. This beach community sits roughly 8.5 hours from Nashville, Tennessee. Cape San Blas is the perfect spot for those looking for a laid back beach vacation without the crowds and tourist attractions you’ll find in some of the other towns on our list. 

Folly Beach, SC

Sitting just 20 minutes south of Charleston, Folly Beach is a great beach location for those looking to enjoy the sand and the city. Although it’s an 8 hour 46 minute drive from Nashville, we are including Folly Beach in our list of best beaches close to Nashville.

The city of Charleston offers so many landmarks and attractions that Nashville residents are eager to visit this beautiful southern town. Folly Beach is a nearby beach community favored by locals looking for a beach getaway. With amazing beaches and numerous restaurants, Folly Beach offers the perfect place for a beach vacation from Nashville.

Myrtle Beach, SC

While Myrtle Beach, South Carolina clocks in at roughly 9 hours 21 minutes away from Nashville, I still felt the need to include it on our list. Myrtle Beach is a super popular tourist destination for families in the summer. With amusement parks, water parks, restaurants, and more, Myrtle Beach is the perfect spot for those looking for lots of action while on vacation. This beach community on the Atlantic features lots of family friendly resorts with water slides and playgrounds.

Final Thoughts on Beaches near Nashville

Overall, Nashville sits in a prime spot for access to beaches in the Southeast. Whether you’re looking to travel to South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, or Florida, the coast lines in these neighboring states offer plenty of beach getaways. If you plan to depart Nashville during the morning hours, you can easily find yourself stretched out on a lounge chair on the beach by midafternoon.

With drive times starting at just under 7 hours, the beaches on our list all provide enticing amenities for guests. No matter what type of coastal vacation you’re searching for, our list of the closest beaches to Nashville has something for everyone. For a more extensive list of top beaches, we recommend checking out our post on the Best Beaches in the South USA .

So, what do you think? Which of the closest beaches to Nashville would you choose? Comment below to share with us!

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

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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 » 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! :)

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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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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24 Unique and Instagram-Worthy Things To Do With Friends in Nashville, TN

Posted: January 13, 2024 | Last updated: January 13, 2024

If you have to choose just one incredibly Instagrammable US town, it’s got to be Tennessee’s Music City. The state’s capital, Nashville, is home to museums, downtown skyscrapers, tourist destinations, iconic music venues, and green space—plus a whole lot more.

Things To Do With Friends in Nashville

Whether you’re visiting with a long-term bestie or want to host a day out with fellow residents, you could easily make a day trip out of all the photogenic locations Nashville has to offer. If you’re looking for things to do with friends in Nashville, here are a few of our favorites that make for the perfect Instagram shot.

1. Gaylord Opryland

With more than 100,000 uses of its three main hashtags, #opryland, #gaylordopryland, and #oprylandhotel, the Gaylord Opryland Hotel is one of Nashville’s most visited resorts and one of its most Instagrammable locations. The hotel features multiple gigantic indoor gardens, running waterfalls, a boat ride, restaurants, shopping, nightlife, and live music. If you could only pick one thing to do with friends, this would be among the must-see things to do in Nashville.

2. Cheekwood

If it’s natural beauty you’re after, Cheekwood might be your favorite spot. The estate features 55 acres of art exhibitions and botanical gardens. It boasts more than 100,000 followers on Instagram and is regularly tagged  by the hottest musicians in town. Whether you’re looking for delicate photos among the flowers, a must-see seasonal event, or high-brow art photos, Cheekwood has you covered.

3. I Believe in Nashville Mural

The “I Believe in Nashville” mural might be one of the city’s most recognizable—and it got started in 12 South, where the original striped artwork was first painted. A second, larger mural has been added at Marathon Music Works. Snag directions and details on the mural’s official website . 

4. Radnor Lake

Nashville’s Radnor Lake is situated about 30 minutes outside and features a beautiful hour-long walk on a super easy flat trail around the lake. Its hiking ease and plethora of wildlife make it an excellent spot for photography. It’s been featured on the  official Nashville Instagram account  and has wooded areas, lake vistas, bridges, kayaking, and more that offer great photo opportunities.

5. Rosepepper Cantina

If you’re looking for things to do with friends that don’t necessarily require you to be in the photo, Rosepepper Cantina has your back. Rosepepper is well-known for its quirky jokes and puns on the sign outside, so join the more than 18,000 photos taken at the Instagram location tag—no selfie required! 

6. Nashville Looks Good on You Mural

The 12 South neighborhood is home to a lot of Music City’s iconic murals, and  the “Nashville Looks Good On You”  painting is no exception. The simple black background and white text mean any outfit will match, and the rectangular, lengthy wall it’s painted on makes group shots a breeze. A quick search for the mural’s name on Instagram reveals this one has been a go-to for years.

7. Downtown Broadway – AKA Honky Tonk Highway

One of Music City’s namesakes is country music. There’s no shortage of it on Honky Tonk Highway, the neon-lit section of downtown Broadway. From the brightly lit celebrity bar signs to horse-drawn carriages and line dancing, there’s excellent photo appeal here.

8. What Lifts You Wings Painting

Take a scroll through the 1,000+ posts tagged with The Gulch, and you’ll immediately notice multiple photos of the “What Lifts You” wings painted on a black wall in the Music City neighborhood. They were created by  Kelsey Montague , who has more than 150,000 Instagram followers. Although no single hashtag quantifies how many times people have taken photos here, it’s one of the most popular in town.

9. Draper James

With nearly one million followers on Instagram, the Draper James clothing company, founded by Reese Witherspoon, has a mural of its own that folks love to take photos with. Just outside the shop, you’ll find the blue and white gingham mural, plus a bench to pose on.

10. Printers Alley

Full of burlesque, cozy bars, lounge clubs, and eateries, Printer’s Alley has a life of its own. While also listed as one of the  best engagement photo locations  in the city, it has multiple Instagram location tags that have been used more than 10,000 times. The #printersalley hashtag has also been used more than 36,000 times. 

11. Centennial Park

Is there anything more quintessentially Nashville than Centennial Park? The city’s alternate nickname is “The Athens of the South,” and it makes sense; Nashville is home to the world’s only exact-size replica of the Parthenon. The gem itself offers multiple photo opportunities, but so do the pond and live ducks.

12. Percy Warner Park

Percy Warner Park is located just outside the city and offers miles of beautiful hiking trails to take photographs on. While the park’s official Instagram page has 8,000 followers, the location tag has been used more than 5,000 times, and #percywarnerpark has been used nearly 14,000 times. 

13. Five Daughters Bakery

Are you looking for super hip things to do with friends in Nashville? Five Daughters Bakery, with nearly 200,000 Instagram followers, also has an Instagram location tag that’s been used more than 30,000 times. From delicious pastries to the aesthetic decor, there’s so much here to photograph.

14. Pinewood Social

Another super cool eatery, Pinewood Social, feels like it was built for Instagram photos. With more than 33,000 followers and 73,000 posts on its location tag, Pinewood is a top spot for snazzy pics. From the drinks to the bowling lanes, there’s so much here to love!

15. Country Music Hall of Fame

The Country Music Hall of Fame encapsulates Music City’s namesake and history, and it’s super popular. With more than 155,000 posts on its location tag, there’s something here for country fans and history buffs alike.

16. Cumberland Park

A favorite spot for influencers because of its downtown location and waterfront views, Cumberland Park has more than 16,000 posts on its location tag and more than 5,000 posts on #cumberlandpark.

17. Amelia’s Flower Truck

Amelia’s Flower Truck has more than 73,000 followers on Instagram, and it’s not hard to see why — who doesn’t want to snag a beautiful bouquet from a quaint flower delivery truck? There are more than 1,500 posts across multiple location tags and 5,000 posts on #ameliasflowertruck. This one is photogenic and popular but is still a little niche and unique.

18. John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

With more than 28,000 posts on its location tag, this striking downtown pedestrian bridge is a top location for group and single photos. Whether you’re shooting the bridge itself or a view of your outfit from its top, this is a must-visit spot. 

19. Dream Nashville

Talk about swanky! Dream Nashville is a new lounge club and bar with nearly 25,000 Instagram followers. The location tag has been used more than 5,000 times, and with a speakeasy, pop-up installations, and more, there’s a lot here to show off. 

20. Frist Art Museum

Is there anything more visually appealing than a literal art museum? The Frist is Nashville’s most iconic gallery, and the exhibitions change all the time. With 40,000 followers on Instagram, it’s also a trendy locale. 

21. White Limozeen

This Dolly Parton-themed bar sits atop a separate Nashville hotel and has art, drinks, and a pool that’s just begging to be photographed. With more than 30,000 posts at its location tag, it’s not like you’d be the only one!

22. Biscuit Love

With multiple Nashville locations that have thousands of posts to each of their location tags, you can’t go wrong by brunching at Biscuit Love. It’s just one of many spots that offer something other than country music if that isn’t your thing.

23. 5th and Broadway

The latest shopping district, nestled in downtown, 5th and Broadway, offers tons of shops, food pics to snap, and outdoor posing opportunities!

24. Ryman Auditorium

Last but certainly not least, Ryman Auditorium is an iconic, historic Nashville venue. With nearly 300,000 Instagram followers and more than 300,000 uses of its location tag, this is one place you shouldn’t miss!

Music City isn’t just about country music, although there’s also plenty of that. Whether you’re looking for things to do with friends or simply need a new snapshot for Instagram, Nashville has something for you. From museums and history to beautiful outdoor green spaces, there’s no excuse not to grab a great photo. Grab your boots and cowboy hat and get to it!

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The 12 Best Hotels in Nashville

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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 .

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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Where to Stay in Nashville: 8 Best Areas to Stay in 2024

Written By: Sara Oprasic

United States

Published On: March 12, 2024

Nashville is a vibrant city in Tennessee, famous for its incredibly rich music history. It’s also a big city, and deciding where to stay is not easy unless you’re acquainted with the different neighborhoods. After visiting Nashville a couple of times (the most recent being just a few months ago), I think I have a good idea of the area and can easily help you figure it out with this guide on the best places to stay in Nashville!

First, you need to know which part of the city works best for your trip. The central area is best for a first visit, but not great if you’re on a tight budget. If you are looking to save some money, then maybe look into the Mid-town area. It may be a little more no-frills, but it is also much cheaper than Downtown. Music Row is where we usually stay when we are in Nashville. We love the vibe there, and you are still within walking distance of most of the cool things to do in the city.

Table of Contents

Best Places To Stay In Nashville 

Throughout this guide, we will break down 8 of the best places to stay in Nashville, including hotel recommendations, the pros and cons of each area, and a good description of what to expect if this is the area you choose to stay in the Music City. All of these recommendations are our personal suggestions after spending a good amount of time in the city. Read on, and you will find out why we fell in love with Nashville and visit again and again.

1. Downtown 

Downtown Nashville is the best area for first-time visitors. It’s the city center with all the top tourist attractions and landmarks, including the Tennessee State Capitol, the Frist Art Museum, the Johnny Cash Museum, and much more.

The district encompasses several neighborhoods, including Sobro, The Gulch, Pie Town, and Capitol View. Any of these smaller neighborhoods is great for a stay in Nashville, and it’s only a 45-minute walk from one end of Downtown to the other. The district is walkable, and you can quickly move between the popular Nashville attractions. 

I recommend this area to travelers who are willing to pay a bit more for a nice hotel room. Few hotels in this part of the city are affordable, so you might want to consider a different part of Nashville if you’re traveling on a tighter budget. 

Luxury: W Nashville

The W Nashville is a fabulous five-star hotel in the center of The Gulch. The location is excellent if you want to be within walking distance of the best attractions in the city, but also great restaurants and live music bars. The hotel features an outdoor pool, a rooftop bar, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and even a yoga lawn. 

Stay at the W Nashville if you like extra-large and comfy beds because all the hotel rooms have them. All the rooms feature spacious ensuite bathrooms, desks, and seating areas. Also, all guest rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows so you can wake up to spectacular city views. 

Mid-Range: Dream Nashville by Hyatt

Dream Nashville Hotel is set in two historic buildings in Printer’s Alley. It features spacious art-deco rooms with large double beds and colorful furniture. I like that the guest rooms have some character, and it’s not just white and beige decor throughout. 

Every hotel room at the Dream Nashville Hotel has a private bathroom, a seating area, and a desk. Also, with six options for dining and nightlife, some of Nashville’s best bars and restaurants will be mere steps away from your bed. The hotel has a modern fitness center and 24-hour room service, but unfortunately, there’s no pool on the grounds. 

Budget: The Capitol Hotel Downtown

The Capitol Hotel Downtown is one of the most affordable hotels in Downtown Nashville, with a central location. It features clean and spacious rooms with ensuite bathrooms, dedicated workspaces, and coffee makers. The hotel has a 24/7 reception desk, but the rooms are easily accessible through exterior corridors. 

There’s a small fitness center at this modern hotel, as well as a laundry room and a bar. But there’s no pool, and overall the amenities offered by the Capitol Hotel Downtown are quite scarce. It’s a three-star hotel with a nightly rate that starts at around $190, which is as cheap as it gets for Downtown Nashville, barring any special deals. 

Pros of Staying in Downtown

• Walking distance to popular attractions
• Lots of things to do in the neighborhood
• Great bars and restaurants 
• A safe area for tourists

Cons of Staying in Downtown

• Hotels and restaurants are quite expensive 
• Crowded with tourists 
• Few budget accommodation options 

SoBro is a neighborhood in Downtown Nashville that deserves its own entry on this list. It’s one of the best parts of the city for tourists because it’s home to many of the city’s best sights. You can quickly walk to Downtown Nashville’s Country Music Hall of Fame, and Music City Center is just minutes away from the heart of SoBro.

SoBro is a launchpad on the outskirts of Nashville’s Downtown area, perfect for experiencing a different atmosphere yet still being next to all the best attractions. Head to live music venues like Mercy Lounge, walk into Downtown Nashville for a day of sightseeing, catch a show at The Bridgestone Arena, or sample some local cuisine at one of the surrounding neighborhood restaurants.

Known for neon lights and countless honky tonks, SoBro is also home to many of Nashville’s best name-brand hotels. Staying here won’t be cheap, but it will be a fabulous experience because all the hotels in SoBro are top-notch.

Luxury: The Joseph

The Joseph is one of the best five-star hotels in the entire city. It boasts an outdoor pool, private garden, fitness center, restaurant, and bar, so you’ll have everything you need. And the decor throughout the entire place is flawless, with lots of nods to the significance of music in Nashville. 

I love that every hotel room has a vintage radio, and the luxe suites even have record players. Every room at The Joseph has its own bathroom, desk, and seating area. The beds are extremely comfortable, and you can make coffee or tea in the room as soon as you open your eyes every morning. 

Mid-Range: Omni Nashville Hotel

Omni Nashville Hotel is a great four-star hotel in the heart of SoBro. It’s adjacent to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, so you can’t get any closer to Nashville’s best sights. And it’s truly a fabulous hotel with designer rooms, a large outdoor pool, and five restaurants. 

The hotel rooms are impeccable. The decor features lots of dark wood, which makes the rooms feel more sophisticated. You will have access to everything they need because every room has a private bathroom, flat-screen TV, desk, seating area, and coffee maker. 

Budget: Sentral SoBro

Sentral SoBro is an interesting option in this premium neighborhood. The hotel doesn’t have traditional rooms but instead offers studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. They’re surprisingly affordable considering the location and equipped with all the essentials for a longer stay in Nashville. 

Consider this hotel if you’re staying in the city for a while and you want to be centrally located without spending a fortune on accommodation. The apartments are beautifully decorated and actually feel like homes. Also, all the apartments have a full-sized kitchen and laundry room, as well as roomy bathrooms. 

Pros of Staying in SoBro

• Central location in Nashville
• The city’s best attractions are all close by 
• Great for luxury hotel stays 

Cons of Staying in SoBro

• Pricey accommodation 
• A busy area of Nashville
• Parking is usually not included in the room rate

3. Midtown/West End

The West End, also known as Midtown, is the area surrounding Vanderbilt University. This district is adjacent to Downtown Nashville, so you can still be within walking distance of the city’s best attractions. 

Also, the West End has plenty of its own landmarks, from The Parthenon at Centennial Park to Church Street with the best live music venues. It’s Nashville’s nightlife hub and the place to be if you want to just a short stroll from the best parties in the city. 

Midtown is also home to some of the best hotels in Nashville, and you’ll have plenty of options for mid-range and luxury accommodations. This neighborhood still isn’t great for budget travelers as hotels aren’t cheap, but you generally get more bang for your buck in the West End than Downtown.

Luxury: Conrad Nashville

The Conrad Nashville is an excellent five-star hotel in the West End. It’s only a 10-minute walk from Downtown Nashville, so if you were to stay at this hotel you could easily explore most of the city’s attractions on foot. It boasts an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, room service, and free WiFi throughout the entire property. 

The room options at the Conrad range from a classic King Room to a huge Superior Suite. All the rooms have a private bathroom, workstation, and a seating area. Most rooms are also equipped with a kitchenette complete with a dishwasher, which might just be my favorite thing about this hotel. 

Mid-Range: Graduate Nashville

Graduate Nashville is probably the most unique hotel in Nashville, at least in terms of the decor. I immediately fell in love with all the pink furniture and accents, so you might want to consider a different hotel if that’s not a color you particularly enjoy. Pink permeates even into the shared spaces, which made me like the Graduate even more. 

Apart from the vibrant decor, the hotel is known for spacious bathrooms that make getting ready in the morning much more enjoyable. The beds are very comfortable, and you’ll get a flat-screen TV, a seating area, and a desk in every room. Oh, and I almost forgot to mention that every single room is uniquely decorated, whether it be with gorgeous artwork or guitar-shaped beds. 

Budget: Hayes Street Hotel Nashville

Hayes Street Hotel Nashville is an affordable three-star hotel a short distance from the Downtown. If you’re on a tight budget but still want to be centrally located in Nashville, this is one of the best budget hotels in Music City. 

The rooms are basic but feature extra-large beds and some color accents. Every hotel room has a flat-screen TV, coffee machine, and free WiFi. The hotel has a small fitness center, lounge, and bar, plus there are dozens of restaurants within a five-minute walk. You won’t be impressed with the facilities at the Hayes Street Hotel, but you will be impressed with the price! 

Pros of Staying in Midtown/West End

• Hotels and restaurants are more affordable
• Easy access to the city center 
• Best for nightlife in Nashville

Cons of Staying in Midtown/West End

• Fewer things to do in the neighborhood
• Can be loud because of the hospital
• The university area is very busy during the day 

4. Music Row

Music Row is home to many radio stations and record label offices, which makes it immensely popular with tourists. It’s no surprise that some of the city’s best hotels are precisely in this neighborhood. We stayed here and have found it to be our favourite area to suggest to people when they are looking for the best areas to stay in Nashville.

Music Row is adjacent to both Midtown and Downtown, so you can easily get around Nashville’s best neighborhoods. Most hotels in this area are within walking distance of the city center, plus there are quite a few interesting places to explore in the neighborhood itself. 

Overall, this is probably the second-best neighborhood to stay in Nashville, right after Downtown. Especially in terms of value for money because the hotels in Music Row are significantly cheaper than those with a more central location but offer equal amenities. 

Luxury: Virgin Hotels Nashville

Virgin Hotels Nashville is the nicest hotel in this neighborhood, and where we have stayed multiple times, so I’m counting it as a luxury hotel even if it has “only” four stars. It makes up for the lack of the fifth star with an excellent rooftop pool, contemporary rooms with high-end appliances, and fabulous landscaping in the hotel’s mini garden. 

The hotel rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated. All have a private bathroom, desk, and seating area, while some rooms even have private balconies. Also, some rooms on higher floors offer sea views, which is pretty rare for Nashville. This hotel is even pet-friendly, making it the top option for those who are traveling with their furry friends. 

Mid-Range: Kimpton Aertson Hotel

The Kimpton Aertson is an excellent four-star hotel in Music Row, roughly a 20-minute walk from Downtown Nashville. It’s got an amazing rooftop pool with a sun deck and a wellness center with modern gym equipment.

The rooms at this boutique hotel are spacious, with extra large double beds and pristine ensuite bathrooms. All hotel rooms have a minibar, a flat-screen TV, a desk, and a Bluetooth sound system. Guests have access to multiple lounge areas, a modern American restaurant, and an excellent on-site bar with a fantastic collection of Tennessee whiskies. 

Budget: Best Western Plus Downtown

Best Western Plus Downtown is one of the best budget hotels in Nashville. It’s a three-star hotel located in the north of Music Row, just a few minutes away from Downtown. The hotel is very close to the city center, and it’s great value considering the location.

The rooms are unusually sleek for the price. You won’t be wowed by the decor, but you won’t feel like you’re in a cheap, run-down hotel either. The beds are very comfortable, every hotel room has a desk and a flat-screen TV, plus breakfast is included even in the cheapest nightly rates. The hotel even has a pool, albeit a very small one with views of the road. 

Pros of Staying in Music Row

• A historic area of Nashville
• Not too busy 
• Very close to the city center

Cons of Staying in Music Row

• Not many bars and restaurants
• Fewer hotel options 
• Tourist attractions are scarce

5. East Nashville

East Nashville is a vast residential neighborhood northeast of the city center. It’s the best option for travelers on a tight budget because this is where you’ll find all the most affordable Nashville hotels. However, I must point out that the majority of this neighborhood is quite far from the city center, so I recommend staying in East Nashville only if you have access to a car. 

While the area might not have countless tourist attractions and landmarks, it is home to many trendy restaurants, bars, and interesting boutiques. This district is also known for street art, which you can discover on casual evening strolls. And if you can drive around Nashville, you’re just 10 minutes from the Downtown with all its museums and landmarks. 

Stay in East Nashville to save money on accommodation while still experiencing the unique vibe of the city. Even in this residential neighborhood, there are plenty of bars and other venues where you can enjoy live music performances pretty much every night.  

Luxury: The Russell

The Russell is a three-star hotel, so it’s not a proper luxury hotel, but it is very special. It is set in a former church, and staying here is a one-of-a-kind experience. Also, this is a three-star hotel because it has no restaurant or fitness center, but that’s to be expected because the building is so limited in space. 

The rooms are exquisite, though. They boast clean, modern furnishings that create a beautiful contrast with the exposed brick of the church building. Every room has an ensuite bathroom, a flat-screen TV, and a coffee maker. So, even though you’re staying in a historic building, you will still have access to all the modern essentials. 

Mid Range: Waymore’s Guest House and Casual Club

Waymore’s Guest House and Casual Club is an awesome hotel with inexpensive rooms. Best of all, you don’t even need a car to stay at this hotel because it’s very close to East Bank and Downtown. There’s a bus stop practically in front of the hotel, and you can be in the city center in just 5-10 minutes. 

The hotel rooms are beautifully decorated with comfortable beds, desks, coffee machines, and free WiFi. Every room has a private bathroom, and guests can choose from a myriad of room types, ranging from single rooms to family suites. There’s also a restaurant on-site that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and doubles as the hotel bar. 

Budget: Sleep Inn Nashville

Sleep Inn Nashville is an affordable two-star hotel situated in the far north of East Nashville. It’s quite far away from the city center, but if you have a car, you can be in Downtown Nashville in roughly ten minutes. So it’s a great option if you’re on a tighter budget and don’t mind staying a bit farther away to save money. 

The rooms are surprisingly spacious and equipped with all the essentials. You get a comfy bed, an ensuite bathroom, a dedicated workstation, a coffee machine, and a flat-screen TV – not bad for a two-star hotel. There’s even a seasonal outdoor pool that all guests are welcome to use, plus free breakfast and parking are included in the stay, which starts at $110 per night. 

Pros of Staying in East Nashville

• The hotels are more affordable
• Lots of venues with live music
• Excellent bars and eateries

Cons of Staying in East Nashville

• Fewer landmarks and attractions in the neighborhood
• Not within walking distance of the center 
• Very few hotels 

6. Airport 

Hotels close to the airport are great for travelers who have an early flight or are in town for a very short time. Plus they’re generally cheaper than hotels in other neighborhoods and you’ll get better value for money. 

If you have a car in Nashville, you can be in the city center in less than 15 minutes. Otherwise, I don’t recommend staying near the airport because the public transport is painfully slow, and there’s hardly anything to do here other than visit the other hotels. 

Luxury: Sonesta Nashville Airport

Sonesta Nashville Airport is a four-star hotel with spacious and clean rooms. A hotel room like this in the city center would be at least double the price, especially with those huge windows and panoramic views. 

All guests staying at the Sonesta will have access to a private bathroom, seating area, and a desk in the room. Also, the hotel has two swimming pools and two restaurants, so you get excellent facilities for little money. 

Mid-Range: Sheraton Music City 

Sheraton Music City is a great hotel close to the airport with two swimming pools, a bar, two restaurants, and a fitness center. This is a pet-friendly hotel with a sprawling garden, and it’s one of the best mid-range hotels in Nashville for travelers with pets. 

Guest rooms are quite spacious with big, comfortable beds and a separate seating area. Every room has a desk, TV, and private bathroom, and I will say that the decor is nice for the most part. Also, double and quadruple rooms are priced the same, so the Sheraton offers great value for families and groups. 

Budget: Alexis Inn and Suites Hotel

Alexis Inn and Suites Hotel is one of the cheapest hotels near the airport. The rooms are surprisingly nice for the price, and hotel facilities include a restaurant, fitness center, and breakfast bar. 

Amenities at the guest rooms are fairly standard. Everyone gets an ensuite bathroom, TV, desk, and a coffee maker. I will say that some rooms have a sink opposite the bed, which is a little weird. But hey, there’s free WiFi and an ironing board, so I can get past that. 

Pros of Staying at The Airport

• Cheap hotels
• Great for short stays and early flights
• Just a 15-minute drive from the city center

Cons of Staying at The Airport

• Hard to get around without a car
• No proper luxury hotels
• No things to do in the area

7. East Bank

East Bank is a waterfront area of Nashville. It’s in development so it’s not the most pleasing part of the city to look at, but it is adjacent to the Downtown. If you stay here, you will be super close to all the top attractions and things to do in Nashville, plus East Bank hotels tend to be cheaper than those in the more central city neighborhoods.

The Nissan Stadium is here, making East Bank one of the best neighborhoods for people traveling to Nashville for concerts or NFL games. After the concert or game, you can easily walk back to your hotel, or you can just walk across the bridge to the bars and restaurants in Downtown Nashville. 

Mid-Range: La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham is a nice three-star hotel just a couple of minutes away from the Nissan Stadium. It’s also just a 20-minute walk from the best attractions in Downtown Nashville, so you’re still super close to the center. The hotel features surprisingly big rooms with comfortable beds and ensuite bathrooms, plus it has a swimming pool and a fitness center. 

Breakfast is included in the nightly rate, which is just under $200. All the rooms are air-conditioned, and equipped with a coffee machine, a flat-screen TV, a seating area, and a desk. On top of that, the hotel has a bar and a restaurant on-site. 

Budget: Clarion Hotel Downtown Nashville – Stadium

Clarion Hotel Downtown Nashville is a great option for travelers looking for cheap hotels in Nashville. A night at this three-star hotel starts at around $160, which buys you a spacious room with two queen beds (or a king bed) and a buffet-style breakfast. Guest rooms all have a private bathroom, flat-screen TV, desk, and a coffee machine. 

And it gets better. The hotel has an indoor saltwater pool, which means it’s accessible year-round. There’s also a fitness center, as well as a business center complete with conference rooms. Best of all, this hotel is merely 10 minutes from the city center by bus, so you’re still very close to all the best attractions in Nashville. 

Pros of Staying in East Bank

• The hotels are affordable
• Walking distance to the city center
• Close to the Nissan Stadium 

Cons of Staying in East Bank 

• Very few bars and restaurants
• No landmarks in the neighborhood
• Extremely busy during concerts/NFL games

8. Music Valley 

Stay in Music Valley if you’re traveling to Nashville for a relaxed vacation or a musical event. This is where you’ll find the best and most elaborate resorts in Nashville, as well as the city’s best golf courses and even some hiking trails . 

Another advantage of Music Valley is that it’s one of the safest neighborhoods in Nashville. While you might not have a lot to do here in the evening other than visit a bar or go out to a restaurant, at least you’ll feel comfortable walking around at night, even if you’re alone. 

Grand Ole Opry is naturally the highlight of this entire neighborhood. The home of country music is open for tours every day, and it’s the main reason why so many tourists will go out of their way to visit Music Valley, even if they’ve booked a hotel in SoBro. 

Luxury: Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center

Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center is so decked out with features that you could spend half your trip to Nashville just touring the resort. It is absolutely massive with 4 bars, 15 restaurants, and several retail shops. 

The hotel rooms are sleek and modern, with comfortable beds and roomy private bathrooms. All guests will have access to a desk and flat-screen TV in their room, and some will even have a private balcony. However, I must say that the rooms seriously lack character, so you might want to consider a different hotel if you’re not a fan of the all-white hotel room decor.  

Mid-Range: Club Wyndham Nashville

Club Wyndham Nashville is a great option for longer stays in Nashville. The hotel offers suites and condos for groups of 4-6 people, and they’re incredibly affordable. It comes down to roughly $50 per person, which is insane when you consider that the hotel has three swimming pools! 

The suites aren’t the prettiest, but they’re clean and equipped with all you might need for a longer trip. You’ll have either a kitchenette or a full kitchen, a separate bedroom, and a private bathroom. The hotel also offers laundry facilities. 

Budget: Best Western Suites 

Best Western Suites is an affordable hotel in Opryland. It’s got a pool and a fitness center, which is honestly a bit surprising considering how cheap the rooms are. If you’re traveling to Nashville to visit the Grand Ole Opry and need an inexpensive room close by, this is a top option. 

The rooms are basic but include all the necessities. You’ll have an oversized desk, a TV, and a private bathroom, plus breakfast is included in the nightly rate. Parking is also free for all guests, making this hotel excellent value for the money. 

Pros of Staying in Music Valley

• A very safe neighborhood
• Great for visits to the Grand Ole Opry 
• Lots of resorts 

Cons of Staying in Music Valley

• Far away from Downtown Nashville
• Few things to do in the area 
• Not a good place to stay without a car

Best Areas To Stay In Nashville FAQs

What is the best part of Nashville to stay in? 

Downtown is the best part of Nashville to stay in, especially for first-time visitors. East Nashville is a close second, especially if you’re looking for better deals and have access to a car. 

Is it better to stay Downtown or Music Row in Nashville? 

It is generally better to stay in Downtown Nashville. The area has more attractions that are within walking distance and a much wider selection of hotels than Music Row. 

Is Downtown Nashville a walkable city? 

Downtown Nashville is an easily walkable neighborhood. It’s only 45 minutes from the far end of one end of the neighborhood to the other. 

Which side of Nashville is the best?

According to the locals, the East side of Nashville is the best. Although the Downtown is most popular with tourists, East Nashville is one of the best areas for residents. 

Where Not To Stay In Nashville

Nashville is a very big city, and just like every other big city, it has safe areas and those that aren’t. Neighborhoods to avoid in Nashville are the Bordeaux Area, Capitol View, and North Nashville. Even East Nashville has some pockets that aren’t entirely safe, but I made sure not to include hotels in those areas. 

Instead, stick to the districts recommended in this guide. The city center, along with Midtown and Music Valley, is the safest for tourists. Sure, the hotels are a bit pricier, but I don’t think you can put a price on your own safety. 

Why We Love Nashville 

We love Nashville because the city has a soul. The locals are very friendly, the city’s food scene is amazing, and the music here is off the charts. It’s one of the best places to visit in the United States , especially for (country) music lovers. 

Stop by Nashville during a US road trip , or come here for a romantic getaway –  I don’t doubt you’ll have the time of your life. And you’re bound to get inspired to give your travel playlist a complete overhaul!

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Sara Oprasic

Sara loves writing about travel as much as she loves traveling. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, spending time with her cats, and crossing items off her bucket list. She’s yet to cross off Japan, Tromsø, and Hogsmeade. You can see what she’s up to on her Instagram Page

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2 thoughts on “Where to Stay in Nashville: 8 Best Areas to Stay in 2024”

Nashville is a great weekend getaway. We love the midtown area best. Conrad Hotel is our favorite midtown hotel. The graduate is on our wish list. The Dolly Patron theme is truly Nash Vegas.

Such a massive impressive post you guys doing incredible job. As a native of Tennessee I can say you really hit the nail on the head with this one well I don’t live in Nashville I do live just a few hours away in Chattanooga Tennessee another wonderful spot by the way.

View from Washington, DC

Sun will be 87 % obscured

See what the solar eclipse will look like in your city

April 8 may be your best chance to see a total solar eclipse for two decades.

Scroll to continue

If you could look down on Earth from space during April’s total solar eclipse, you would see the moon cast its shadow on the planet, creating a dark blob that will dart across the land from Mexico into Texas and up toward Maine and Canada.

And if you are lucky enough to be looking up from Earth in the moon’s shadow, you’ll see the sky fall dark, it will get colder and quieter, and for a special three to four minutes, you’ll be able to view the sun’s glowing white corona.

For many people in North America, April 8 is likely to be the best opportunity in their lifetime to experience a total solar eclipse. Most in the contiguous United States, however, will only experience a partial eclipse.

Whether you see a total or partial eclipse all depends on where you are to view the phenomenon.

An estimated 31.5 million people live within the roughly 115-mile wide path of totality that stretches from Mazatlán, Mexico, to Newfoundland, Canada. Inside the path, as the sun, moon and Earth become perfectly aligned, the moon blocks the sun and casts its shadow on Earth. The farther away you are from the center of this path, the less the moon will obscure the sun. People within the contiguous United States who are outside the path will see a partial eclipse.

“During a total eclipse, you’re plunged into the moon’s shadow. You’re in this eerie twilight. You can see bright stars and planets in the sky. And of course, the biggest attraction is you see the sun’s solar corona. You don’t see any of those things in the partial eclipse, even at 99 percent,” said Fred Espenak, a retired NASA astrophysicist who has experienced 30 total solar eclipses. “It’s the difference between night and day.”

The difference is so enormous, even veteran eclipse viewers often don’t have words that do justice to totality.

“You think you know what you’re going to experience, but you have no idea,” said Kate Russo, an author, psychologist and eclipse chaser who will be seeing her 14th total solar eclipse in April. “I always say it’s like the ineffable,” she added. “Sometimes things happen to us that we just have no words to describe.”

View of a total eclipse

Eagle Pass, TX • Sun will be 100% obscured

View of a partial eclipse

Washington, D.C. • Sun will be 87% obscured

Inside the path, as the moon creeps closer to fully blocking the sun, the temperature drops and the light and wind change. Insects and animals may fall silent. Some birds might return to home to roost. And even though you’re expecting it, Russo said, it’s still so surprising.

“You notice the darkening that’s coming toward you, and that’s really eerie and it puts the hair on the back of your neck,” she said. “It really is quite exciting and thrilling, and you just can’t believe that it’s going to happen.”

The fleeting moments of totality will last anywhere from a few seconds to over four minutes, depending where you are inside the path. Mexico and 12 U.S. states have cities that will get duration times longer than four minutes. The longest totality will be in Torreón, Mexico, and will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds . Compared with other eclipses that typically only last a couple of minutes, that’s quite a long time. In 2017, the longest duration was near Carbondale, Ill., where the eclipse lasted for 2 minutes and 42 seconds.

Percentage of the sun

blocked by the moon

Indianapolis

Little Rock

San Antonio

Mexico City

Max coverage percent

Source: NASA

Percentage of the sun blocked by the moon

Max coverage

Los Angeles

For one of her books , Russo interviewed first-time eclipse viewers asking how totality made them feel. Their responses aligned with her own experiences: Within totality, the awe, connection and euphoria that people experience leaves them feeling both insignificant and a part of something greater than themselves, Russo said.

“We’re only on this Earth for just a split second of time. And I think these moments actually highlight that for you,” she said. “It puts all our other concerns or problems just into perspective.”

Within totality, there’s a lot to see when you remove your safety glasses. April’s eclipse will coincide with heightened solar activity. As the moon blocks the bright face of the sun, it reveals the sun’s outer atmosphere, called the corona, and can show plumes of gas, referred to as streamers, escaping into space. These look like bright streaks or feathery rays flowing around the edge of the sun. Prominences, or magnetic loops that glow bright pink or red around the inner atmosphere, will also probably be more visible. Venus and Jupiter can also be seen on either side of the sun.

Outside of totality, the partial eclipse — even a view with 99 percent of the sun obscured — must be viewed safely with a simple viewer or safety glasses . According to Espenak, once you’re out of the path of totality, there’s not a big difference in what you’ll see. “It’s just a thinner slice of the sun that’s visible. It’s only when you make that transformation from the partial eclipse to a total eclipse that you get this dramatic change.”

Patrick Poitevin, an eclipse chaser and astronomer from Derbyshire, England, has experienced 24 total eclipses. Poitevin, who said he’s always looking for a “different” or “extreme” view, will travel to Mazatlán in April. He added that there’s lots to see along the edge or just inside or outside the path of totality using a telescope with a hydrogen-alpha filter. “What a show!” he wrote of an eclipse last year in Kosrae, Micronesia, in which he saw from a mile outside of the path a nearly 360-degree view of the chromosphere, a colored layer of the sun’s atmosphere, just above the solar surface. “Mesmerising,” he added.

Eclipses over the next 50 years

This year’s eclipse

While total solar eclipses happen about every 18 months , they are often in remote parts of the world, including the middle of the ocean. By contrast, this eclipse will pass through several densely populated cities. “It’s not that common that you get a total eclipse going through your home country,” Espenak said. “We had the 2017 eclipse, and before that it was 1979. So that was a 38-year gap.”

The next total solar eclipse visible across the contiguous United States won’t be until 2045 and will travel from California through Florida. After that, a 2078 eclipse will pass through nine Southern states.

“If you can’t travel [to totality], still go out and enjoy the partial eclipse,” Russo advises. To view the eclipse in April, she will be heading to Uvalde County, Tex., where she has held workshops and helped local officials with planning. “This is your chance,” she said, “an easy chance to get into the path.”

Espenak, whose work at NASA included eclipse predictions, met his wife, Patricia, during a 1995 eclipse in India. For 25 years, Patricia had struck out on seeing totality — her view was either partial or cloudy. It was only in India where she finally saw totality. The two will be traveling from Arizona to Mazatlán to view April’s eclipse, and Fred will be speaking.

“ I’m excited at every single one. Over a lifetime of seeing these things, I get goose bumps, and there’s that thrill of seeing it every single time,” Espenak said. “No matter how many photographs or videos you look at, it’s nothing like the real McCoy.”

About this story

We created the eclipse animations by interpolating the moon’s path, calculating its trajectory based on the initial, midpoint and final positions during the eclipse.

Eclipse animation data was sourced from the Five Millennium Canon of Solar Eclipses Database by Xavier M. Jubier, which is based on NASA’s eclipse predictions by Fred Espenak. The algorithms used were drawn from “Elements of Solar Eclipses 1951-2200” and “Astronomical Algorithms.” Eclipse track data was obtained from NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio.

Eclipse city view animation speeds are not reflective of actual eclipse durations. Half of the city of San Antonio, Texas falls within totality and half falls outside of totality. So depending on where you are inside the city, the sun may not be 100% obscured as it is depicted in the animation.

Kevin Schaul and Denise Lu contributed to this report. Editing by Emily M. Eng and Victoria Jaggard. Copy editing by Vanessa Larson.