Best Things to Do in Nashville offers a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to diverse interests and age groups. From historic landmarks like the Parthenon and Broadway, to world-renowned music venues and a thriving food scene, Nashville has something for everyone.
The city’s unique blend of country, blues, and Americana music, combined with its rich history and cultural attractions, make it an exciting destination for both locals and tourists.
Must-Visit Attractions in Nashville
Nashville, the heart of Music City, USA, is a vibrant and eclectic city that offers an array of attractions that cater to diverse interests. From historic landmarks to world-class museums, and from live music venues to cultural hotspots, Nashville has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you through the must-visit attractions in Nashville that you shouldn’t miss.
Landmarks and Iconic Symbols
The Parthenon is an impressive landmark and a symbol of Nashville’s rich architectural heritage. This full-scale replica of the ancient Greek Parthenon was built in the 1970s as a museum and an art gallery. The structure features a stunning 42-foot statue of Athena, goddess of wisdom, and houses a collection of art and artifacts that showcase the city’s history and culture. Visitors can climb to the top of the Parthenon for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The Broadway is a lively entertainment district that’s famous for its honky-tonk bars, live music venues, and boot-scootin’ dance floors. This seven-block stretch of downtown Nashville is home to over 80 bars, restaurants, and music venues, and is a must-visit spot for anyone who loves music, food, and fun.
Museums and Galleries
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is one of the most popular attractions in Nashville, attracting visitors from all over the world. This world-class museum showcases the rich history of country music, with interactive exhibits, live performances, and an impressive collection of artifacts and memorabilia. You can learn about the lives and careers of country music legends, see historic instruments and stage wear, and even record your own song in a state-of-the-art recording studio.
The Frist Art Museum is a premier art museum that features a diverse range of exhibitions and artists. From contemporary art to classical masterpieces, the Frist Art Museum has something for every art lover. The museum also hosts live performances, concerts, and lectures, making it a great spot to engage with art and culture.
The Ryman Auditorium: A Legendary Music Venue
The Ryman Auditorium is known as the “Mother Church of Country Music” and is one of the most iconic music venues in the world. With a rich history spanning over 125 years, the Ryman has hosted some of the greatest musicians of all time, including Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, and Patsy Cline. This historic venue is still an active performance space, hosting concerts, tours, and events throughout the year. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Ryman and learn about its fascinating history and significance in country music.
Live Music Scenes and Venues in Nashville
Nashville, Tennessee, is often called ‘Music City’ due to its vibrant music scene that has nurtured the development of country, blues, Americana, and many other genres. This city’s music scene is renowned worldwide for producing artists across multiple styles. With numerous live music venues, Nashville remains a prominent destination for both local and international artists.
Historic Venues and Iconic Performance Spaces
The city’s historic venues are iconic symbols of the city’s music scene and have contributed to its rich musical heritage. For instance, the Grand Ole Opry, situated near downtown Nashville, has been an integral part of the country music scene since its inception in 1925. Founded by George D. Hay, it continues to feature a diverse mix of artists, including both famous and up-and-coming country musicians and entertainers.
The Bluebird Cafe is another vital component of Nashville’s music scene. This intimate 90-seat cafe has been called ‘the heart of songwriting’ due to its dedication to nurturing songwriters and performers in a natural, acoustic setting. Often featured on popular TV shows like ABC’s ‘Nashville,’ this small venue has garnered widespread recognition and praise. Here’s an illustration of an old photograph of Bluebird Cafe taken around the 80’s, but it’s in a small, dimly lit, unassuming environment – nothing too flashy.
This unassuming environment is what brings an audience to this unique cafe, creating a connection between the artist and the fan that is difficult to replicate in larger venues. It’s within these smaller clubs, such as the Bluebird Cafe and Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, where up-and-coming artists hone their craft, eventually making their way to more prominent stages. This progression allows artists to refine their talents and establish a devoted fan base.
Live Music Venues in Nashville: Size and Ambiance Matter
Nashville’s diverse live music scene encompasses a wide array of venues, ranging from intimate clubs to large theaters. Each of these types of venues offers a unique experience for both the artists and the audience.
In larger venues like the Ryman Auditorium or the Bridgestone Arena, artists can perform for thousands of people. These larger stages have the ability to amplify the sound, producing a lively, energetic atmosphere. Furthermore, these bigger venues often host prominent acts and provide an opportunity for artists to gain widespread recognition.
Smaller venues in Nashville, on the other hand, are a different story altogether. They tend to be more laid-back and offer a more personal connection between the artist and the crowd. These settings allow fans to engage more directly with the music and create a lasting memory. In smaller clubs, artists can perform more acoustically-driven music, as seen in the numerous singer-songwriter nights hosted throughout the city.
Best Restaurants and Bars in Nashville
Nashville is renowned for its vibrant food and drink scene, offering a wide range of options to suit every taste and budget. From traditional Southern cuisine to modern twists on classic favorites, the city is a culinary paradise.
Nashville’s Renowned BBQ Joints
Nashville’s BBQ scene is a staple of the city’s culinary identity, with each joint offering its own unique take on traditional Southern-style ‘cue. Among the many excellent options, three standout BBQ joints are Hattie B’s Hot Chicken and Other Southern Favorites, Jack’s Bar-B-Que, and Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint.
- Hattie B’s Hot Chicken and Other Southern Favorites offers a modern take on traditional Southern cuisine, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and creative flavor combinations.
- Jack’s Bar-B-Que is a Nashville institution, serving up tender, smoky meats and a range of classic sides.
- Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint is a modern BBQ joint with a focus on high-quality meats and a wide range of creative sides and desserts.
Nashville’s Must-Try Hot Chicken Spots
Nashville is famous for its hot chicken, a spicy, crispy fried chicken dish that’s a staple of the city’s culinary scene. Among the many excellent hot chicken spots, Hattie B’s Hot Chicken and Other Southern Favorites, Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack, and Bolton’s Hot Chicken are must-try destinations for hot chicken enthusiasts.
- Hattie B’s Hot Chicken and Other Southern Favorites offers a modern take on traditional hot chicken, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and creative flavor combinations.
- Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack is a Nashville institution, serving up traditional hot chicken with a side of spicy pickles and creamy coleslaw.
- Bolton’s Hot Chicken is a family-owned hot chicken spot with a focus on high-quality meats and a wide range of creative sides.
Rooftop Bars with Great Views
Nashville’s rooftop bars offer stunning views of the city skyline, making them the perfect destination for a romantic evening, a night out with friends, or a unique view of the city. Among the many excellent rooftop bars, the Bobby Hotel’s Rooftop, Acme Feed & Seed, and The Sutler are standout destinations for those seeking a drink with a view.
- The Bobby Hotel’s Rooftop offers stunning views of the city skyline, along with a wide range of craft cocktails and small plates.
- Acme Feed & Seed is a historic warehouse-turned-rooftop-bar with a wide range of craft beers and live music.
- The Sutler is a stylish rooftop bar with a focus on creative cocktails and small plates, set in the historic Fort Negley area.
Family-Friendly Activities and Attractions: Best Things To Do In Nashville
Nashville is a city that offers a wide range of activities for all ages. From exciting theme parks to educational museums, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. In this section, we’ll explore some of the best family-friendly attractions and activities that Nashville has to offer.
The Nashville Zoo
The Nashville Zoo is a 200-acre park that is home to over 6,000 animals from around the world. The zoo is divided into ten exhibit areas, each featuring animals from different parts of the globe. One of the unique exhibits at the Nashville Zoo is the Monkey Haven, where visitors can see a troop of capuchin monkeys swinging through the trees. The Giraffe Feeding Platform is another popular exhibit, where kids can feed and learn about these gentle giants.
- The Nashville Zoo is open daily from 9am to 4:30pm, with extended hours during the summer months.
- Visitors can take a leisurely ride on the Nashville Zoo’s train, which takes them on a tour of the entire park.
- The zoo also offers a variety of educational programs and activities for kids, including animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours.
The Adventure Science Center, Best things to do in nashville
The Adventure Science Center is a hands-on science museum that offers interactive exhibits and activities for kids of all ages. The center features a wide range of exhibits, including a giant model of the city, a weather lab, and a human body exhibit. Visitors can also take part in science experiments and demonstrations, and learn about topics such as space exploration and robotics.
- The Adventure Science Center is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 5pm.
- Visitors can take part in a variety of interactive exhibits and activities, including a space exploration exhibit and a chemistry lab.
- The center also offers a variety of educational programs and activities for kids, including science camps and field trips.
Nashville Shores Waterpark
Nashville Shores Waterpark is a popular destination for families looking for a fun day out in the sun. The waterpark features a variety of attractions, including water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river. Visitors can also rent cabanas and enjoy the park’s restaurants and bars. Nashville Shores Waterpark is the perfect place for families to cool off during the summer months.
- Nashville Shores Waterpark is open daily from 11am to 7pm, with extended hours during the summer months.
- Visitors can take part in a variety of water attractions, including the park’s famous Big Kahuna water slide.
- The waterpark also offers a variety of amenities, including restaurants, bars, and cabanas for rent.
Outdoor Activities and Parks in Nashville
Nashville, known as Music City, offers a wealth of outdoor activities and parks to explore. The city’s parks and green spaces provide scenic views, recreational opportunities, and a chance to connect with nature. Among the many parks in Nashville, the Cumberland River and its surrounding areas are particularly noteworthy.
The Cumberland River is a significant waterway that runs through the heart of Nashville, offering scenic views, recreational activities, and a glimpse into the city’s history. The river has played a vital role in Nashville’s development, from its founding as a riverboat town to its current status as a thriving metropolis. Visitors can enjoy boat tours, fishing, and picnicking along the river’s banks, while also taking in the surrounding cityscape.
Centennial Park and Edwin Warner Park
Nashville’s parks offer a diverse range of experiences, from sprawling green spaces to scenic overlooks. Two of the city’s most popular parks are Centennial Park and Edwin Warner Park.
Centennial Park is a 132-acre green space located in the heart of the city. The park features walking trails, a lake, and plenty of picnic areas. Visitors can also explore the park’s many gardens, including the beautiful Japanese Garden.
Edwin Warner Park, on the other hand, is a 2,600-acre park located just south of the city. The park features hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and stunning views of the surrounding hills. Visitors can hike to the summit of the park’s highest point, which offers breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Hiking and Biking in Nashville
Nashville’s hills offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking. From easy strolls through the city’s green spaces to challenging climbs through the surrounding hills, there’s something for every skill level.
For a scenic hike, consider exploring the trails at Percy Warner Park, one of Nashville’s most popular parks. The park features a 9-mile trail that takes hikers through a variety of landscapes, from wooded valleys to rocky outcroppings.
Bikers can explore the city’s many bike trails, including the 12-mile Cumberland River Greenway. This paved trail takes riders along the river and through the city’s parks, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
More Scenic Spots
In addition to the Cumberland River and Nashville’s many parks, the city offers a wealth of other scenic spots to explore. Consider visiting the following spots for a unique perspective on the city:
* The Warner Parks Nature Center: This nature center offers insight into the region’s natural history and features a variety of exhibits and interactive displays.
* The Parthenon: This full-scale replica of the ancient Greek Parthenon is a stunning piece of architecture that offers breathtaking views of the city.
* The Nashville Greenway Trail: This 12-mile trail takes hikers and bikers on a scenic tour of the city’s parks and green spaces.
Shopping Districts and Malls in Nashville
Nashville, the capital of Tennessee, is renowned for its vibrant shopping scene, with various trendy boutiques, antique shops, and world-class malls. Visitors can spend hours browsing through the city’s numerous shopping districts, each offering a unique experience. From the iconic Opry Mills Mall to the upscale boutiques in the Gulch, Nashville has something for every kind of shopper.
Trendy Boutiques and Antique Shops in the 12 South Neighborhood
Located in the heart of Nashville, the 12 South neighborhood is a shopper’s paradise. This charming district is home to a range of trendy boutiques, including the famous “I believe in Nashville” mural, where visitors can take a memorable photo. Some of the notable boutiques in the area include:
- Acme Feed & Seed: A four-story historic building that now houses a boutique, restaurant, and bar.
- Two Old Hippies: A unique boutique featuring handmade jewelry, clothing, and home decor.
- Hatch Show Print: A historic print shop that offers a range of vintage-inspired clothing and accessories.
- Imogene + Willa: A boutique offering a curated selection of women’s clothing and accessories.
These eclectic boutiques offer a glimpse into Nashville’s vibrant fashion scene and are a must-visit for any shopper. Whether you’re looking for vintage finds, handmade jewelry, or unique clothing, the 12 South neighborhood has something for everyone.
Opry Mills Mall
Opry Mills Mall, located near the Grand Ole Opry, is one of Nashville’s most iconic shopping destinations. With over 200 stores, restaurants, and entertainment options, Opry Mills is a shopper’s dream come true. Some of the notable stores in the mall include:
- Great American Cookie Company: A cookie shop offering a range of delicious flavors.
- Hard Rock Cafe: A restaurant and music souvenir shop featuring rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia.
- Sam Ash Music: A music store offering a wide selection of instruments and music-related products.
- Wings & Things: A unique dining experience featuring a range of wings and appetizers.
Opry Mills Mall is a must-visit for anyone interested in shopping, dining, or entertainment. Visitors can spend the day browsing through the mall’s numerous stores, dining at one of the many restaurants, or enjoying the entertainment options.
Trendy Shopping Districts: The Gulch and Beyond
The Gulch, located just east of downtown Nashville, is a trendy shopping district that offers a range of upscale boutiques. Some of the notable stores in the area include:
- Edley’s Bar-B-Que: A barbecue restaurant and retail store offering a range of BBQ-themed merchandise.
- The Post East: A boutique featuring a curated selection of women’s clothing and accessories.
- Madewell: A fashion boutique offering a range of high-end clothing and accessories.
- Anthropologie: A unique boutique featuring a range of clothing, accessories, and home decor.
In addition to the Gulch, there are several other trendy shopping districts in Nashville, each offering a unique experience. Visitors can explore the boutiques in the 12 South neighborhood, the upscale stores in the Gulch, or the unique shops in the Germantown neighborhood. Nashville’s diverse shopping scene has something for every kind of shopper, from trendy boutiques to world-class malls.
Events and Festivals in Nashville
Nashville is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, with a plethora of festivals and events that showcase the city’s rich music heritage, artistic creativity, and community spirit. From iconic music festivals to film celebrations, Nashville’s events calendar is packed with activities that cater to diverse interests. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, art lover, or foodie, there’s something for everyone in this southern gem.
Famous Music Festivals in Nashville
The city is home to several globally recognized music festivals that bring in top artists and attract massive crowds. These events not only celebrate Nashville’s musical roots but also inject energy into the local economy.
- The CMA Music Festival, held annually in June, is one of the largest music festivals in the world, attracting hundreds of thousands of fans and featuring performances by top country artists.
- Bonnaroo, a four-day music festival held in Manchester, Tennessee, but with strong ties to Nashville, is a favorite among music lovers, with its eclectic lineup of rock, pop, and electronic artists.
- The AmericanaFest Nashville, a nine-day celebration of roots music, showcases the city’s rich Americana heritage and features performances by local and international artists.
Nashville Film Festival
As one of the oldest and most prestigious film festivals in the United States, the Nashville Film Festival has been showcasing the best of independent cinema since 1969. With a rich history of supporting new talent and innovative storytelling, the festival has become a staple of Nashville’s cultural scene.
- The festival showcases a diverse range of films, including documentaries, feature films, and shorts, offering a platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase their work.
- The event features panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities, providing a unique chance for industry professionals to connect and share ideas.
- As a testament to its impact, the festival has launched the careers of numerous notable filmmakers, including directors and producers who have gone on to achieve international recognition.
Nashville’s Cultural Calendar
Throughout the year, Nashville hosts a wide range of festivals and events that celebrate its rich cultural heritage. From the spring’s blossoming flowers to the autumn’s harvest season, there’s always something happening in the city.
| Month | Event/Festival |
|---|---|
| April | Tennessee Jazz & Blues Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Concert |
| June | CMA Music Festival |
| July | Nashville Symphony’s Summer Concerts at Centennial Park |
| September | Music City Roots |
| October | Nashville Film Festival |
Closing Notes
Whether you’re interested in music, history, food, or outdoor activities, Nashville has something to offer. From family-friendly attractions like the Nashville Zoo and Adventure Science Center, to the city’s vibrant nightlife and scenic parks, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in Music City.
FAQs
What is the best way to get around Nashville?
Nashville has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and a downtown trolley. Additionally, many attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore the city on foot.
What are the best restaurants in Nashville?
Nashville is famous for its hot chicken, and Hattie B’s and Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack are two of the most popular spots. For BBQ, Edley’s Bar-B-Que is a must-visit.
Can I visit Nashville Zoo without buying tickets online?
Yes, tickets can be purchased at the zoo’s box office, but it’s recommended to buy them online in advance to avoid long wait times.
