Nashville, Tennessee: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Are you ready to experience the vibrant city that’s known as Music City? With its rich music history, delicious Southern cuisine, and exciting attractions, you’ll find plenty of exciting things to do in this Tennessee city.

Nashville offers an incredible array of experiences for visitors of all interests and ages. From iconic music venues to unique culinary experiences and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a music lover, history buff, or foodie, you’ll discover the best things to do in this vibrant city.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the top attractions and hidden gems that make Nashville a must-visit destination.

Discovering Music City: What Makes Nashville Special

Nashville, known as Music City, is a treasure trove of musical history and diverse attractions. As you explore this vibrant city, you’ll discover that its identity is deeply rooted in its rich musical heritage, yet it has evolved into a cosmopolitan destination that offers something for everyone.

Nashville’s Rich Musical Heritage

Nashville earned its “Music City” nickname through its pivotal role in the development of country music. The city’s musical influence, however, spans across genres from bluegrass to rock. Nashville’s music history dates back to the 1800s, with the Fisk Jubilee Singers putting the city on the map internationally before the Grand Ole Opry began broadcasting in 1925.

• The Fisk Jubilee Singers were instrumental in showcasing Nashville’s musical talent on an international stage.
• The Grand Ole Opry, a landmark in country music, has been broadcasting from Nashville since 1925.
• Nashville is home to numerous recording studios that have hosted legendary artists across various genres.

Beyond the Music: Nashville’s Diverse Attractions

Beyond its musical heritage, Nashville boasts a rich historical tapestry with beautiful antebellum architecture, Civil War sites, and landmarks that tell the story of Tennessee’s past. The city has evolved into a cultural hub with world-class museums, a thriving arts scene, and diverse neighborhoods each with their own distinct character.

Nashville’s recent growth has transformed it into a cosmopolitan destination with award-winning restaurants, boutique shopping districts, and outdoor recreational opportunities that complement its musical roots. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, from exploring the city’s historical sites to experiencing its vibrant cultural scene.

Iconic Music Venues and Experiences

From the Grand Ole Opry to the honky-tonks on Broadway, Nashville’s music venues offer an unforgettable experience. As you explore the city’s vibrant music scene, you’ll discover a mix of legendary venues, live performances, and the rich history of country music.

Grand Ole Opry and Backstage Tour

The Grand Ole Opry is a must-visit for any country music fan. As the longest-running radio broadcast in the US, it has been a staple of Nashville’s music scene since 1925. You can experience the Opry’s magic firsthand by attending a live show, where you’ll see both established stars and rising talent take the stage.

Taking the backstage tour of the Grand Ole Opry gives you a deeper insight into country music history and lets you stand in the famous circle where countless legends have performed. You’ll learn about the Opry’s rich heritage and the artists who have shaped the genre.

Ryman Auditorium: The Mother Church of Country Music

Known as “The Mother Church of Country Music,” the Ryman Auditorium is a historic venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in music. Its stunning acoustics and former tabernacle setting make it one of the most revered performance venues in America. You can take a tour of the Ryman to learn more about its history and significance.

The Ryman has played host to a wide range of artists over the years, from Hank Williams to Emmylou Harris. Its legacy continues to influence the music scene in Nashville and beyond.

Broadway Honky Tonks and Live Music Scene

Broadway’s famous honky tonks are a defining feature of Nashville’s live music scene. With no cover charge, you can hop from venue to venue, experiencing different bands and atmospheres. Iconic establishments like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, Robert’s Western World, and The Stage offer authentic Nashville experiences where you might catch tomorrow’s stars performing today.

As you explore Broadway, you’ll find that the energy is infectious, with live music spilling out onto the streets. Be sure to grab a stool, order the house specialty—a fried bologna sandwich—and pay what you wish when the band passes the tip jar. It’s a truly unique way to experience the city’s music culture.

Nashville, Tennessee: Best Things to Do for Music Lovers

Nashville, Tennessee, is a paradise for music enthusiasts, offering a plethora of activities that cater to diverse musical tastes. From iconic music venues to museums dedicated to legendary artists, the city is a treasure trove of musical experiences.

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is one of the largest country music museum collections in the world, housing over 2 million artifacts that tell the story of country music’s evolution. You’ll see a vast array of memorabilia, including cowboy boots, costumes, and even Elvis’s gold Cadillac.

Interactive exhibits allow visitors to hear rare recordings, see iconic costumes, and even experience what it’s like to be in a recording studio. The museum is a must-visit for anyone looking to dive deep into the history and culture of country music.

Johnny Cash Museum

For fans of the Man in Black, the Johnny Cash Museum is a pilgrimage site. The museum offers an intimate look at Johnny Cash’s life and career through personal items, handwritten lyrics, and multimedia presentations that showcase his cultural impact.

You can view a lot of Cash’s stage outfits, gold records, awards, and other memorabilia, including a close-up look at one of his Grammys. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with the legend behind the music.

Bluebird Cafe and Nashville’s Listening Rooms

The Bluebird Cafe is the quintessential listening room, where you can experience the art of songwriting in an intimate setting. It’s super popular, with open mic nights that sell out quickly, making it a must-visit for any music lover.

Nashville’s listening rooms, including The Listening Room Cafe and Douglas Corner Cafe, provide a more relaxed alternative to the energetic Broadway scene, showcasing songwriters in environments where you can truly appreciate the lyrics and melodies.

Historic Sites and Cultural Attractions

As you explore Nashville, you’ll discover a rich history and cultural heritage. The city’s historic sites offer a glimpse into its development from a frontier settlement to a sophisticated cultural center.

The Parthenon at Centennial Park

The Parthenon at Centennial Park is a full-scale replica of the ancient Greek temple, built in 1897 for Tennessee’s Centennial Exposition. Today, it houses an art gallery featuring American artists and a 42-foot statue of Athena.

Belle Meade Historic Site and Winery

Belle Meade plantation was once a thriving horse breeding farm and a popular destination for presidents and notable figures. Visitors can tour the Greek Revival mansion, learn about the owners and the enslaved people, and enjoy wine tastings at the on-site winery.

Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage

Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage, the former home and plantation of the seventh U.S. president, offers insight into early American politics and plantation life. The preserved buildings and interactive exhibits provide a comprehensive look at Jackson’s life and legacy.

These historic sites collectively tell the story of Nashville’s development, offering context for understanding the city’s present-day character. By visiting these attractions, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Museums Worth Visiting in Nashville

The city’s museum landscape is a treasure trove of art, history, and science. Nashville is home to a variety of museums that cater to different interests, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Frist Art Museum

The Frist Art Museum, housed in Nashville’s historic former post office, features rotating world-class exhibitions rather than permanent collections, ensuring each visit offers something new to discover. The museum’s Martin ArtQuest Gallery provides hands-on creative stations where visitors of all ages can experiment with different artistic techniques and materials.

National Museum of African American Music

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.

Adventure Science Center

The Nashville Adventure Science Center offers over 175 hands-on exhibits focused on biology, astronomy, physics, and earth science, making it an engaging destination for curious minds of all ages. The Tinker Lab is a highlight, where you can build with various materials and take your creations home if they fit in a bag.

These museums not only showcase Nashville’s rich cultural and scientific heritage but also provide engaging experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a music lover, or a science buff, Nashville’s museums have something to offer.

Outdoor Activities and Green Spaces

Discover the natural side of Nashville, where city meets serenity. Nashville offers a variety of outdoor activities and green spaces that provide a refreshing escape from the city’s vibrant music scene.

Centennial Park and the Taylor Swift Bench

Centennial Park is a must-visit, boasting 132 acres of green space in the heart of Nashville. The park features walking trails, Lake Watauga, and beautiful gardens. Fans of Taylor Swift can visit the dedicated bench commemorating her connection to Nashville. A willow tree planted nearby references her song “Invisible String.”

Cumberland River Kayaking and Water Activities

For a unique perspective on Nashville, try kayaking on the Cumberland River. Guided tours are available for all skill levels, offering a leisurely paddle downstream to Downtown Nashville. The Cumberland River Greenway also provides miles of paved paths perfect for walking, running, or cycling along the water’s edge.

Shelby Bottoms Nature Center and Greenway

Shelby Bottoms encompasses nearly 1,000 acres of natural area with over 10 miles of trails. This greenway provides a peaceful escape from urban life while still being within the city limits. Visitors can explore the diverse natural surroundings and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Nashville’s outdoor spaces offer something for everyone, from serene parks to exciting water activities. Whether you’re a nature lover or an adventure seeker, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors in Music City.

Nashville’s Food Scene: Must-Try Culinary Experiences

Exploring Nashville’s food scene is an adventure in itself, offering a variety of flavors that cater to different tastes and preferences. From its signature hot chicken to Southern comfort food and vibrant food halls, Nashville’s culinary landscape is diverse and exciting.

Hot Chicken: Nashville’s Signature Dish

Nashville hot chicken has become the city’s culinary calling card, with the fiery dish originating at Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack and now available at popular spots like Hattie B’s, Bolton’s, and 400 Degrees. The heat levels of Nashville hot chicken range from mild to extremely spicy, with each restaurant offering their own interpretation of the cayenne-based recipe served traditionally on white bread with pickle chips.

Southern Comfort Food and Biscuits

Southern comfort food goes beyond hot chicken in Nashville, with restaurants like Loveless Cafe serving legendary biscuits and country ham that have attracted visitors for over 60 years. The flaky biscuits, served with homemade preserves, come alongside almost everything on the menu, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Southern cuisine.

Food Halls and Nashville Farmers Market

The Nashville Farmers Market operates year-round with indoor and outdoor sections featuring local produce, artisanal foods, and a food hall with diverse dining options from global cuisines to Southern classics. Food halls like Assembly Food Hall and Hunters Station have become popular dining destinations, offering multiple food vendors under one roof where visitors can sample a variety of Nashville’s best eats in a casual setting.

Nashville’s food scene is a reflection of its cultural diversity and rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy hot chicken, comforting Southern dishes, or exploring the local flavors at the farmers market, Nashville has something to offer every food enthusiast.

Unique Drinking Experiences

Whether you’re a beer aficionado or a cocktail connoisseur, Nashville has a drinking experience tailored to your taste. The city is home to a variety of drinking establishments that cater to different preferences, from craft breweries and distilleries to rooftop bars and speakeasy-style cocktail lounges.

Craft Breweries and Distilleries

Nashville’s craft brewery scene has seen significant growth, with local favorites like Yazoo Brewing Company, Tennessee Brew Works, and Bearded Iris offering innovative beers in their taprooms. Visitors can sample these local brews and explore the brewing process.

Distilleries in and around Nashville also provide tours and tastings of Tennessee whiskey and bourbon. Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery and Corsair Distillery are leading the urban craft distilling movement, offering insights into the production of fine spirits.

Rooftop Bars with Skyline Views

Nashville is blessed with dozens of rooftop bars offering picturesque views and ambiance. From pool decks to live music and seating in swings, these bars are great places to relax and enjoy your beverage of choice. Popular spots include L.A. Jackson at the Thompson Hotel, Up at the Fairlane, and the rooftop at Ole Red.

These rooftop bars provide different perspectives of the city, making them ideal for a night out or a casual evening drink.

The Patterson House and Speakeasy Culture

The Patterson House has been a pioneer in Nashville’s craft cocktail scene, known for its speakeasy atmosphere and strict seating-only policy. The bartenders engage with patrons at length before recommending one of their custom-crafted cocktails, creating a refined and upscale environment.

For a unique drinking experience, visitors can also explore hidden bars like Old Glory in Edgehill or The Fox Bar & Cocktail Club in East Nashville, offering sophisticated cocktails in intimate settings.

Shopping Districts and Local Boutiques

Discover the best of Nashville’s shopping districts, where local charm and creativity come alive. Nashville is renowned for its vibrant shopping scene, offering a diverse array of boutiques, artisan markets, and historic districts that cater to all tastes and preferences.

12th Avenue South Shopping District

Located in the 12 South neighborhood, 12th Avenue South is a premier shopping destination in Nashville. This street is lined with an assortment of boutiques, gourmet restaurants, coffee houses, and bakeries, making it a perfect spot for a day out. You’ll find local boutiques like Reese Witherspoon’s Draper James, White’s Mercantile, and Imogene + Willie, alongside popular eateries and coffee shops. The walkable 12 South district combines shopping with Instagram-worthy murals, creating a unique and memorable experience.

Five Points and East Nashville Shops

East Nashville’s Five Points area is the creative heart of the city’s most eclectic neighborhood. This hub is home to unique shops like Fanny’s House of Music, The Idea Hatchery’s mini-boutiques, and vintage clothing stores. The Five Points Alley Shops offer a collection of small businesses in one shopping center, making it easy to discover lots of unique offerings in one spot. Visitors can explore treasures at the unconventional fine jewelry store Riveter or browse used, rare, and out-of-print books at Defunct Books.

Marathon Village and Artisan Markets

Marathon Village, housed in a renovated 1800s automobile factory in the North Gulch neighborhood, offers a mix of artisan workshops, boutiques, and galleries. Visitors can find everything from handcrafted jewelry to Nashville-themed souvenirs. Additionally, local artisan markets like Porter Flea (seasonal) and the Nashville Flea Market at The Fairgrounds provide opportunities to discover handmade goods, vintage finds, and work from local artists and makers.

Nashville’s shopping districts offer a rich and diverse experience, blending local charm with creative expression. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, unique gifts, or simply a fun day out, Nashville’s shopping scene has something for everyone.

Unique Entertainment Options

From immersive escape rooms to retro arcade bars, Nashville offers a multitude of unique entertainment options that are perfect for a fun day out or night on the town. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these places are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

The Escape Game Nashville

The Escape Game Nashville is a great indoor activity to do with your family or friends. You and up to 8 people get put into a themed room, and you have to figure out how to escape within 60 minutes. The rooms are filled with unique props and setups, along with a variety of clues to help you solve the puzzles.

The Escape Game Nashville offers immersive, themed escape rooms with multiple difficulty levels and themes ranging from prison breaks to art heists. This provides entertainment for both first-timers and experienced puzzle enthusiasts.

Pinewood Social: Bowling, Food, and More

Pinewood Social is a multi-purpose venue that defies easy categorization. It’s a restaurant, coffee shop, bowling alley, outdoor oasis, and co-working space all rolled into one. This distinctive space serves just about every need, making it a perfect place to spend an entire day.

The food and cocktail program at Pinewood Social is worth a visit alone, but the added entertainment options make it a great place to hang out. You can enjoy vintage bowling, relax by the outdoor pools, or work in the co-working space.

Game Terminal Arcade

Game Terminal has one of the largest collections of arcade games and pinball machines in the US. Admission is free for adults aged 21+, and $10 for anyone under 21. All arcade games are free, and most pinball machines cost a dollar each.

Game Terminal Super Arcade and Bar offers over 200 classic and modern arcade games and pinball machines in a massive warehouse space. This creates a nostalgic playground for adults, complete with a full bar and food options.

Best Nashville Tours to See It All

With so much to see and do in Nashville, a guided tour can help you make the most of your visit and create lasting memories. Nashville offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests, ensuring that you can experience the city in a way that suits you best.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

Nashville’s Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour is an excellent way to get familiar with the city. These tours provide a comprehensive overview, allowing you to hop off at attractions that interest you and hop back on when you’re ready to move on to the next stop.

Key benefits include:

• Flexibility to explore sites at your own pace
• Knowledgeable guides sharing insights into Nashville’s history and major attractions
• Buses running frequently, typically every 15-20 minutes

Nashville at Night Trolley Tour

Experience Nashville from a different perspective with the Trolley Tour at night. This tour offers a unique view of the city’s illuminated landmarks and is led by entertaining guides who often incorporate music into their narration, making for a memorable evening.

Walking Tours of Historic Districts

For a more intimate look at Nashville’s history and architecture, consider a walking tour of the city’s historic districts. These tours provide in-depth information about areas like Germantown, Printer’s Alley, and the Victorian-era homes of Edgefield, offering a glimpse into Nashville’s rich past.

Day Trips from Nashville

If you’re ready to explore beyond Music City, we’ve got you covered with our top picks for day trips from Nashville. The city is surrounded by charming destinations that offer a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Arrington Vineyards

Just 25 minutes south of Nashville, Arrington Vineyards is a perfect half-day escape. You can enjoy a wine flight or a frose on the picturesque hillside setting. The vineyard is particularly vibrant during spring and summer weekends.

On Fridays, you can enjoy “Food Truck Fridays” with some of Nashville’s best food truck offerings. Weekends feature “Music in the Vines” with free live jazz or bluegrass performances, allowing you to bring picnics and enjoy with your wine purchases.

Jack Daniel’s Distillery in Lynchburg

About 90 minutes from Nashville, you’ll find the home of the top-selling American whiskey in the world—Jack Daniel’s. A tour of the distillery showcases the care and craftsmanship that goes into this iconic beverage.

Whether you’re a Jack drinker or not, the tour is highly recommended. You’ll learn about the whiskey-making process and the brand’s colorful history in a town where, ironically, alcohol sales are still prohibited.

Franklin’s Historic Downtown

Just 20 miles south of Nashville, historic downtown Franklin preserves its Civil War-era charm. You can stroll along the beautifully restored Victorian buildings now housing boutiques, restaurants, and galleries along its picturesque Main Street.

Franklin’s blend of history, shopping, and dining makes it an ideal day trip that feels worlds away from Nashville despite its proximity.

Family-Friendly Activities in Nashville

Family-friendly Nashville is full of fun and educational experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the city offers a variety of attractions that cater to families with kids of all ages.

Gaylord Opryland Resort and SoundWaves Water Park

The Gaylord Opryland Resort is a must-visit destination, even if you’re not staying here. Its massive glass atriums house indoor gardens, waterfalls, and a quarter-mile-long indoor river that offers boat rides. The resort is also home to SoundWaves, a unique water park that combines music and technology for an exciting experience.

SoundWaves at Gaylord Opryland features slides, a wave pool, and activity areas suitable for all ages, making it an ideal spot for families.

Nashville Zoo

The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is another fantastic attraction for families. With innovative exhibits like Tiger Crossroads and Expedition Peru: Trek of the Andean Bear, there’s something for every child to enjoy. The zoo also includes a historic home and farm area dating back to the 1810s.

Visitors can explore the various exhibits, getting up close to animals from around the world, and learn about conservation efforts.

Cheekwood Estate and Gardens

Cheekwood Estate and Gardens is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The estate features beautiful botanical gardens, an arboretum, and a museum housed in the historic Cheek mansion. Throughout the year, Cheekwood offers family-friendly programming, including seasonal festivals and a dedicated children’s garden.

Kids can explore and play in the children’s garden, while adults can appreciate the world-class art exhibits and beautiful gardens.

Where to Stay in Nashville

Whether you’re looking for a vibrant downtown Nashville experience or a laid-back atmosphere, Nashville’s accommodations have got you covered. The city offers a diverse range of options to suit every traveler’s needs, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly accommodations.

Downtown and Broadway Area

Staying in downtown Nashville puts you within walking distance of Broadway’s honky-tonks, the Ryman Auditorium, and major museums, making it ideal for first-time visitors who want to be in the heart of the action. The Downtown area offers primarily upscale hotels like the Omni Nashville, JW Marriott, and boutique options such as the Bobby Hotel and Noelle.

The Gulch and Midtown

The Gulch neighborhood provides a more modern, upscale experience with luxury hotels like the Thompson Nashville and the W Nashville, surrounded by high-end restaurants and boutiques in a walkable district. This area is perfect for those who want to be close to the action but also enjoy a more sophisticated atmosphere.

East Nashville and Budget-Friendly Options

East Nashville offers more affordable accommodations, including vacation rentals and boutique hotels like The Russell, housed in a converted church. This area provides a local experience in Nashville’s hippest neighborhood, ideal for travelers looking for a more laid-back vibe and options that won’t break the bank.

For travelers seeking unique accommodations, Nashville offers a range of options from historic properties like The Hermitage Hotel to music-themed stays like the Graduate Nashville with its Dolly Parton-inspired rooftop bar. No matter where you choose to stay, Nashville’s warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere will make your visit unforgettable.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

As the seasons change, Nashville comes alive with a variety of festivals and events that showcase its vibrant culture. Whether you’re visiting in the spring, summer, fall, or winter, there’s always something happening in Music City.

Music Festivals and Concerts

Nashville’s music festival calendar is packed year-round, featuring events like CMA Fest in June, which brings together country music’s biggest stars and fans from around the world. Other notable music events include Americana Fest in September and the Nashville Film Festival, which has a strong music documentary component.

Free summer concert series like Musicians Corner in Centennial Park and Live on the Green are also a highlight, offering great music and a lively atmosphere.

Holiday Celebrations and Light Displays

From November through December, Nashville transforms with holiday celebrations, featuring millions of lights and special events. The Gaylord Opryland’s Country Christmas is a must-visit, with its ice sculptures, and special shows attracting visitors nationwide.

Cheekwood Estate’s Holiday LIGHTS is another magical experience, with seasonal displays that change throughout the year, from spring’s 250,000 blooming bulbs to fall’s Harvest festival and pumpkin houses.

Summer Outdoor Events

Summer in Nashville brings a range of outdoor events, including outdoor movie screenings, food festivals like the Hot Chicken Festival on July 4th, and Shakespeare in the Park performances. These events take advantage of the city’s pleasant evening temperatures, making for a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

Planning Your Perfect Nashville Itinerary

As you plan your trip to Nashville, consider the best ways to make the most of your time. With so many attractions and experiences to explore, creating an effective itinerary is crucial to enjoying the city’s offerings.

When planning your Nashville itinerary, consider grouping attractions by neighborhood to minimize travel time and maximize your experience in each area of the city. This approach allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and discover hidden gems.

A three-day visit allows time to explore the essential music attractions, sample the local cuisine, and venture beyond downtown to neighborhoods like 12 South and East Nashville. First-time visitors should plan to spend at least one day exploring Downtown Nashville’s major attractions, including the Country Music Hall of Fame, Ryman Auditorium, and Broadway.

To make the most of your visit, consider the timing of your trip. Nashville’s peak tourist seasons (summer and fall) offer perfect weather and special events but come with larger crowds and higher accommodation prices. Balancing your itinerary between scheduled tours and free time for spontaneous discoveries is key to experiencing the best things Nashville has to offer.

By following these tips and being mindful of your plan, you’ll be able to enjoy a well-rounded and memorable trip to Nashville. Whether you’re exploring the city’s vibrant music scene, savoring its culinary delights, or discovering its unique cultural attractions, Nashville is sure to leave a lasting impression.