Strap on your cowboy boots and get ready to dance through the heart of America’s Music City. If you’re on the hunt for the top things to do in Nashville, you’re in for a melodious treat that goes beyond the strum of a guitar. From toe-tapping honky tonks on Broadway to the stately elegance of the Schermerhorn Symphony Center, and even out to the wild adventures at the U.S. National Whitewater Center, Nashville sings a tune that appeals to every traveler. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a devoted foodie, this guide will strum through all the vibrant chords that make Nashville a city worth exploring time and again.
1. Grand Ole Opry
- Where: Located in the Opryland area, a short drive from downtown Nashville.
- Best Time to Visit: Tuesday, Friday, or Saturday nights when live shows are typically scheduled.
- Advice from Locals: Book tickets well in advance, especially for weekend shows, as they can sell out quickly.
The Grand Ole Opry, a cornerstone of Nashville’s music scene, is synonymous with country music history. Known as the show that made country music famous, the Opry continues to host weekly country music performances that feature a mix of legends and contemporary chart-toppers. Attending a live show here isn’t just about the music; it’s about experiencing a piece of American cultural history. Step into the circle on stage, and feel the echo of legends past in this hallowed hall.
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2. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
- Where: In the heart of downtown Nashville.
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings to avoid the crowds.
- Advice from Locals: Don’t miss the rotating exhibits and the vast Taylor Swift Education Center.
Explore the roots and evolution of country music at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, one of the world’s largest museums and research centers dedicated to preserving the legacy of country music. With an immense collection of memorabilia, recordings, and photographs, the museum offers a deep dive into the genre’s impact on American music and culture. It’s not just a museum; it’s a journey through the soul of country music, with interactive exhibits and stories that bring the sounds of Nashville to life.
3. Ryman Auditorium
- Where: Just off 5th Avenue in downtown Nashville.
- Best Time to Visit: Mid-day for a guided tour or evening to catch a live performance.
- Advice from Locals: Take a backstage tour to see the dressing rooms and feel the presence of music greats.
Ryman Auditorium, affectionately known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” has a storied history as the original home of the Grand Ole Opry. The venue offers a uniquely intimate atmosphere that has hosted a diverse array of artists from Johnny Cash to Coldplay. Attending a concert here is akin to a religious experience for music lovers—the acoustics and ambiance are unmatched, making every performance unforgettable.
4. Broadway
- Where: Running through the heart of downtown Nashville.
- Best Time to Visit: Weekend nights for the full experience of neon lights and live music.
- Advice from Locals: Start at one end and wander down; every honky-tonk has its own flavor, so try a few!
Broadway is the beating heart of Nashville’s nightlife and entertainment scene. This bustling street is lined with bars, restaurants, shops, and honky-tonks where live music plays nearly every night of the week. From country and blues to rock and pop, the sounds of Nashville spill out onto the street, inviting passersby to stop in and stay awhile. Whether you’re looking for a boot-scootin’ good time or a chill vibe, Broadway has something for everyone.
5. The Parthenon
- Where: Located in Centennial Park, west of downtown Nashville.
- Best Time to Visit: During the day to explore the art museum inside.
- Advice from Locals: Visit at night as well when the Parthenon is beautifully lit up—a perfect photo op.
The Parthenon in Nashville is a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, Greece, and serves as a monument to what is considered the pinnacle of classical architecture. Inside, it also functions as an art museum with a 42-foot statue of Athena, just as the ancient Greeks would have known her. The Parthenon stands as a testament to Nashville’s nickname, the “Athens of the South,” and offers a unique blend of art, history, and architecture not to be missed.
6. Nashville Zoo at Grassmere
- Where: Southeast of downtown Nashville.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and see the animals at their most active.
- Advice from Locals: Check out the zoo’s calendar for special events and animal shows that are fun for all ages.
The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is a dynamic family attraction that offers an engaging experience with wildlife in carefully crafted habitats. This zoo focuses on conservation and education, providing a home to over 2,900 animals and 365 species. It features interactive exhibits, a jungle gym, and a historic home and farm. For an enjoyable and educational day out, the Nashville Zoo promises close encounters of the furry kind that appeal to both young and young at heart.
7. Belle Meade Plantation
- Where: In the Belle Meade area, west of downtown Nashville.
- Best Time to Visit: Late morning or early afternoon for a guided tour of the mansion and grounds.
- Advice from Locals: Enjoy a wine tasting at the winery on-site after your tour.
Belle Meade Plantation is steeped in Southern history, known for its role in the thoroughbred horse industry. The beautiful grounds and restored mansion tell the story of the Harding and Jackson families who built Belle Meade into a legendary stud farm. A visit here offers a glimpse into the past, complete with guides dressed in period costumes, original furnishings, and a carriage house that houses an impressive collection of horse-drawn carriages.
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8. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
- Where: In the southwestern part of Nashville, near Belle Meade.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring for the bloom of over 150,000 tulips or autumn to see the colorful foliage.
- Advice from Locals: Don’t miss the seasonal festivals like Cheekwood in Bloom and Holiday LIGHTS.
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is a 55-acre botanical garden and historic estate, featuring majestic gardens, an art museum, and seasonal festivals. Originally built as a private residence, today Cheekwood offers a sanctuary of beauty and tranquility with its carefully manicured landscapes, woodland sculpture trail, and an art program that includes pieces from around the globe. It’s a place where nature and art intersect, offering a serene escape from the urban hustle.
9. Frist Art Museum
- Where: In downtown Nashville, near Union Station.
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to avoid school groups and have more room to explore the exhibits.
- Advice from Locals: Check the museum’s schedule for live music events and gallery talks which enhance the experience.
The Frist Art Museum is housed in a stunning art deco building originally built as Nashville’s main post office. Today, it serves as a non-collecting art museum, meaning its exhibits are constantly changing, offering visitors something new with each visit. The Frist’s mission to present and inspire through art makes it a dynamic cultural hub, with exhibitions ranging from local to global, ancient to contemporary.
10. Bluebird Cafe
- Where: In a strip mall in Green Hills, a short drive from downtown Nashville.
- Best Time to Visit: Evening performances when songwriters perform in an intimate, listening room setting.
- Advice from Locals: Reservations are a must as the venue is small and fills up quickly; book well in advance.
The Bluebird Cafe is one of Nashville’s most iconic music venues, known worldwide for its songwriter-in-the-round format where musicians sit in the center of the room, performing and sharing the stories behind their songs. This intimate setting allows an up-close and personal experience with the songwriters and their music. Famous for being a launching pad for many successful artists, a night at the Bluebird is a deep dive into the heart and soul of Nashville’s music scene.
11. Music Row
- Where: Stretching along 16th and 17th Avenues South.
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays during business hours for a chance to see the music industry in action.
- Advice from Locals: Take a guided tour to really understand the history and impact of this area on the global music scene.
Music Row is the heart of Nashville’s entertainment industry, known as the place where countless hit songs were penned, performed, and produced. Walking down these streets, you’re treading the same paths as some of the greatest names in music history. This district houses iconic recording studios, radio stations, and the offices of music associations. While most studios are not open to drop-in visitors, several companies offer tours that can give you a behind-the-scenes look at where the magic happens.
12. Tennessee State Museum
- Where: Located on the northeast corner of Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park.
- Best Time to Visit: Early afternoon on weekdays to explore at your leisure.
- Advice from Locals: Make sure to visit the Civil War exhibit, which provides profound insights into Tennessee’s role in the conflict.
The Tennessee State Museum is a rich repository of the state’s history, offering artifacts and exhibits that span from pre-colonial times to the present day. The museum’s collections include natural history, art, and cultural artifacts that tell the story of Tennessee’s heritage. With interactive displays and educational programs, it’s an excellent place for history buffs and families alike to learn about the state’s past in an engaging environment.
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13. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
- Where: North of the State Capitol in downtown Nashville.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall when the weather is ideal for exploring outdoors.
- Advice from Locals: Check out the 200-foot granite map of Tennessee, a favorite feature that provides a geographic perspective of the state.
Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park serves as a lush green oasis in the heart of Nashville, offering panoramic views of the State Capitol and the downtown skyline. The park features a series of design elements that educate visitors on Tennessee history while offering spaces for relaxation and recreation. It includes a World War II Memorial, a 95-Bell Carillon, and a Pathway of History that makes it not just a park, but a living museum.
14. Nashville Farmers’ Market
- Where: Adjacent to Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park.
- Best Time to Visit: Weekend mornings when the market is bustling with vendors and full of local color.
- Advice from Locals: Try the international food offerings at the Market House for a delicious exploration of global cuisines.
The Nashville Farmers’ Market provides a vibrant culinary snapshot of the region, featuring local produce, artisanal goods, and a wide variety of eateries housed within the Market House. Open year-round, it offers a chance to shop like a local, with everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts. The market is also a stage for cooking demonstrations, live music, and seasonal festivals that highlight the diversity of Nashville’s community.
15. John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge
- Where: Spanning the Cumberland River, connecting downtown Nashville to the residential East Nashville neighborhood.
- Best Time to Visit: Sunset for breathtaking views of the skyline and river.
- Advice from Locals: It’s the perfect spot for photographers looking for a panoramic shot of Nashville’s skyline.
The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge offers some of the best views in Nashville, allowing for a peaceful stroll high above the Cumberland River. This historic bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world, provides a unique vantage point for viewing the city’s bustling downtown area and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking to capture the beauty of Nashville.
16. Adventure Science Center
- Where: South of downtown Nashville, near Fort Negley.
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings when it’s less crowded, especially good for families with young children.
- Advice from Locals: Don’t miss the Sudekum Planetarium shows for an immersive look at the night sky.
The Adventure Science Center is a fantastic place for kids and adults alike to explore science in an interactive and fun way. With exhibits ranging from space travel and biology to weather and physics, the center makes learning about science an exciting adventure. It’s also home to state-of-the-art planetarium shows, which transport audiences across the galaxy, offering a mesmerizing experience that’s both educational and spectacular.
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17. The Hermitage
- Where: East of Nashville, near the community of Hermitage.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall to enjoy the beautiful grounds and comfortable temperatures.
- Advice from Locals: Take the guided tour of Andrew Jackson’s home to fully appreciate the historical significance and personal stories of its inhabitants.
The Hermitage, the historic plantation home of President Andrew Jackson, is one of the most visited presidential homes in the United States. The property features the beautifully restored mansion, original slave cabins, a visitor center, and museum. Exploring this significant site offers insight into the personal life of President Jackson as well as the broader context of America’s early 19th-century history.
18. Schermerhorn Symphony Center
- Where: In downtown Nashville’s SoBro neighborhood.
- Best Time to Visit: Attend a performance by the Nashville Symphony for the full acoustic experience.
- Advice from Locals: Look into “Classical Conversations” before symphony performances, where conductors and guest artists discuss the evening’s program.
The Schermerhorn Symphony Center is not only a stunning example of neoclassical architecture but also one of the finest concert halls in the U.S. The center is home to the Nashville Symphony and hosts a wide range of musical performances, from classical and jazz to pop and family concerts. Its sophisticated design and world-class acoustics provide an unrivaled auditory experience, making it a must-visit for music lovers.
19. Hatch Show Print
- Where: Inside the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum building.
- Best Time to Visit: Midday during the week to watch the print process in action.
- Advice from Locals: Take a hands-on tour where you can create your own souvenir print to take home.
Hatch Show Print is one of the oldest working letterpress print shops in America, and its iconic posters have become an integral part of Nashville’s visual identity. A tour of Hatch Show Print offers a step back in time to when printmaking was both an art and a manual trade. Visitors can see the historic presses in operation and learn about the process of creating works that have advertised country music’s biggest stars.
20. Pinewood Social
- Where: On Peabody Street, just south of downtown Nashville.
- Best Time to Visit: Early evening for cocktails and bowling, or a weekend brunch for a more laid-back vibe.
- Advice from Locals: Reserve a bowling lane or an outdoor cabana by the pool in advance to ensure your spot in this popular venue.
Pinewood Social is a trendy spot where locals and visitors can eat, drink, bowl, swim, and socialize all in one place. Part restaurant, part social club, Pinewood Social offers a unique environment to relax, work, or play. Whether you’re meeting friends for coffee or cocktails, enjoying comfort food with a modern twist, or trying your hand at vintage bowling, Pinewood Social blends relaxation and recreation in a stylishly casual setting.
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Conclusion
Well, there you have it—the concert of activities that makes up our curated list of top things to do in Nashville. This city’s rhythm is undeniable, from the twang of country legends at the Grand Ole Opry to the serene walks in the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, every corner of Nashville has a story singing for your attention. So, take these melodies home with you, along with a souvenir or two, perhaps a Hatch Show Print or a bottle of local whiskey, and let the spirit of Nashville inspire you long after your visit. Whether you came for the music, the history, or the hot chicken, Nashville’s vibrant culture is sure to have you planning your next visit before the last note fades. Remember, in Nashville, every day is an encore and every night a debut!