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There’s never a shortage of things to do in Nashville. While Nashville is well-known for its music live music scene, there are plenty of other sides as well. Music City‘s options are endless, from music to sports and culture to outdoor activities.

Nashville is a great city to visit for everyone no matter how you budget to pay for your travel, what your interests are, or who you’re traveling with.
Whether you’re in town for a romantic getaway, a girls’ trip, or a family vacation, use this list to discover the most fun experiences, activities, and things to do in Nashville, Tennessee.
You may notice we’ve left out some specific popular attractions (Belle Meade Plantation, the Hermitage, and Nashville Zoo).
We did this on purpose, as we don’t believe in supporting unethical animal tourism or attractions that once profited from enslaved people.
1. Grand Ole Opry
If you love country music (or even history), visiting the Grand Ole Opry is almost a Nashville must-do! It is the longest-running radio show in the world.
The show is a mixture of country legends, today’s hottest music, and up-and-coming artists. Along with shows, you can also take backstage guided tours.
2. Broadway
Broadway may not be the place where you’ll find tons of locals just hanging out, but it is a must-see for a Nashville visit.
Consisting of several blocks, you can’t miss the neon lights and the live music pouring out of the rooftop bars and honky-tonks.

3. Parthenon
Nashville has a long history of being known for its higher learning, arts, and culture, leading to it oftentimes being referred to as the “Athens of the South.”
That’s why you’ll find the only full-size replica of the Parthenon. It functions as an art museum, and inside you’ll find a 42-foot statue of Athena.

4. Gaylord Hotel
Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center is a hotel unlike any other. It’s home to all sorts of shops and restaurants.
And if you’re in Nashville during the holidays, you absolutely need to visit.

5. Ryman Auditorium
If you can fit in a show or at least a tour of Ryman Auditorium during your visit, you should! The historic structure was previously a church and is known for its amazing acoustics.
From 1943 to 1974, it was the first home of the Grand Ole Opry. Guided tours will take you backstage as well.

6. Country Music Hall of Fame
If you’re limited on time, we wouldn’t suggest the Country Music Hall of Fame as an absolute must.
However, if you have plenty of time or have already visited once before, the Hall of Fame can be a great experience.
View historical videos, photographs, artifacts, instruments, costumes, and more.

7. Cumberland Park
One of the best views of the Cumberland River in Nashville is from Cumberland Park. It’s a spot with bike paths, butterfly gardens, and an amphitheater for outdoor concerts.
Cumberland Park is connected to downtown Nashville via the pedestrian bridge, which is a huge photo spot!
8. Music Row
Music Row is a famous street, especially for musicians. It’s packed full of record labels, radio stations, recording studios, and more.
There are options to take tours and visit local landmarks.
9. Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory
The Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory is one of the biggest astronomy centers in the state. The observatory is available for visits through ticketed events.
10. Street Art Tour
Whether self-guided or guided tour, there are tons of murals throughout Nashville. The Nashville Walls Project began in 2016 and encouraged artists to personalize a wall.
There are easily over 100 beautiful murals in Nashville.

11. Historic RCA Studio B
Starting in 1957, RCA Studio B was the place to record music in Nashville. Some of the greatest recorded here include Charlie Daniels, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Elvis, and more.
12. TennesseeSports Hall of Fame and Museum
The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and Museum is located downtown and celebrates Volunteer State athletes.
It’s not a large museum, but it’s a great one if you’re a sports fan.
13. Radnor Lake State Park
Radnor Lake State Park is one of our favorite spots in Nashville. It’s a Class II Natural Area and is well-maintained and well-loved.
Wildlife is abundant – very abundant. You can spot tons of turtles, turkeys, deer, red-tailed hawks, and even bald eagles! So don’t forget your binoculars.
14. Adventure Science Center
Adventure Science Center is a must-visit with kids, but it’s fun for adults too. It’s an interactive, hands-on museum.
The planetarium hosts yoga on the weekends, workshops on the science of beer, and creations of famous movie monsters.
15. Nashville Shores
If you’re visiting Nashville during the hotter months, Nashville Shores is a fun water park that’s worth a visit.
They also have a treetop adventure course with ziplines, rope ladders, and cargo nets.
16. Johnny Cash Museum and Cafe
Johnny Cash is one of the absolute legends of country music. Visiting the museum, you’ll be met with photos, records, and artifacts.
17. Bridgestone Arena
Bridgestone Arena is home to Nashville’s hockey team, the Nashville Predators. But it’s also a fantastic music venue.

18. Cheekwood Estates
One of the most relaxing spots in Nashville is Cheekwood Estates. The botanical garden includes a 1.5-mile trail, outdoor sculptures, and 12 diverse gardens.
Cheekwood hosts several seasonal festivals throughout the year, including Cheekwood in Bloom, Cheekwood Harvest, Holiday Lights, and special exhibits.
19. Bootleggers Inn
Bootleggers Inn is a quiet bar hidden away in downtown Nashville. No neon lights here.
It’s also one of the places in Nashville that sells moonshine.
20. Honeysuckle Hill Farm
Honeysuckle Hill Farm is great for families as well. Take a hayride, get lost in a corn maze, or pick out a pumpkin.
21. Sri Ganesha Temple
Sri Ganesha Temple is a beautiful temple that houses botanical gardens and bejeweled elephant statues.
Visitors are encouraged to wander the grounds and learn more about Hinduism. Tour guides can even explain the meanings of different shrines and statues.
22. Schermerhorn Symphony Center
The Symphony Center is famous for its violin concertos and string orchestras. The venue also often hosts jazz concerts, ventriloquists, musicals, and drum lines.

23. Hatch Show Print
Hatch Show Print is a letterpress print shop that’s been making posters for local musicians, venues, and events since the early 1900s.
You can tour the facility, see how old printing machines operate, and print your own customized posters to take home.
Definitely, one of the coolest and most unique Nashville souvenirs you can take home!
24. National Museum of African-American Music
This is one of Nashville’s newest museums. It’s located next door to the Ryman and tells the story of how Black musicians have shaped and influenced virtually every genre of music.
25. Frist Art Museum
The Frist Art Museum is located in a historic 1930s building that was previously Nashville’s main post office.
It houses a wide range of media, and visitors can explore several galleries and exhibits from local, national, and international artists.
26. Nissan Stadium
See your favorite band or singer or take in a Tennessee Titans football game at Nissan Stadium during your visit!
27. NashvilleFarmers’ Market
The Nashville Farmers’ Market is home to over 150 vendors selling fresh produce, handmade goods, pop-up restaurants, and more.
28. Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
Yes, a little touristy, but the wax museum in Nashville is a lot of fun if you love country music.
It’s also located in Opry Mills (right next to the Grand Ole Opry) so it’s an easy add-on activity!
29. BlueBird Cafe
Bluebird Cafe is popular for its songwriter-in-the-round sessions. Tickets sell out quickly!

30. Warner Parks
Nashville has a ton of green spaces! Located just outside of downtown, the Warner Parks are some of the best ones.
They’re actually twin parks – Edwin Warner Park and Percy Warner Park. Together they span thousands of acres full of hiking trails, walking trails, biking trails, playgrounds, golf courses, tennis courts, dog parks, and more.
31. Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary
Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary is a protected area for Tennessee wildlife.
They have structured activities (like basket-weaving), special events, and trail tours.
32. Printer’s Alley
Printer’s Alley was originally the home of newspaper stands and publishing companies. It’s now home to one of the best spots for nightlife.
Not necessarily the spot for kids, but the Alley is a ton of fun!

33. Shelby Bottoms Greenway
Shelby Bottoms Greenway is a great green space, especially for anyone in the East Nashville neighborhood.
It has forests, swamps, streams, wetlands, trails, and more.
Fun random fact? A golden pheasant calls the area home, and locals will try to spot him!
34. Topgolf
Topgolf is a cross between a driving range and a bowling alley. It’s great for those that want to have fun practicing their swing or trying out golf without the stuffiness of a golf course.
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FAQs
Is there anything to do in Nashville right now? ›
- Grand Ole Opry. jejim / Shutterstock. ...
- Broadway. f11photo / Shutterstock. ...
- Parthenon. f11photo / Shutterstock. ...
- Cumberland Park. 4kclips / Shutterstock. ...
- Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center. Joe Hendrickson / Shutterstock. ...
- Music Row. ...
- Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory. ...
- Nashville Zoo.
- Grand Ole Opry. 13,595. Theaters. ...
- Ryman Auditorium. 13,643. ...
- Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery. 7,482. ...
- Ole Smoky Distillery & Yee-Haw Brewery. 4,271. ...
- Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. 15,084. ...
- RCA Studio B. 3,675. ...
- Andrew Jackson's Hermitage. 5,778. ...
- Gaylord Opryland Resort Gardens. 6,104.
Wineries, Breweries, & Distilleries
Visit one of Nashville's many breweries, like Yazoo Brewing Company, Black Abbey, Jackalope, or Southern Grist. City Winery offers a fun environment for wine lovers with live music, food, and wine on tap.
- Nashville Zoo. ...
- Frist Art Museum. ...
- The Hermitage. ...
- Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum. ...
- Bluebird Cafe. ...
- Grand Ole Opry. ...
- John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge. ...
- Ryman Auditorium.
- Pinewood Social. ...
- Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. ...
- Historic RCA Studio B. ...
- Bajo Sexto. ...
- Hatch Show Print. ...
- Schermerhorn Symphony Center. ...
- Johnny Cash Museum. ...
- Goo Goo Shop.
The best time to visit Nashville is from April through October, when the warm weather brings this music city to life. Although December is quite charming with Christmas decorations at the Opryland Hotel and the Belle Meade Historic Site, winter is low season.
What is the coolest neighborhood in Nashville? ›According to CultureTrip, the nicest Nashville neighborhoods are Hillsboro Village, Green Hills, Downtown, East Nashville, 12 South, and Downtown Franklin.
What food should you not miss in Nashville? ›- Hot Chicken. We dropped it like it's hot when we ate this hot chicken at Pepperfire in Nashville. ...
- Biscuits. Biscuits come in different shapes and sizes in Nashville. ...
- Meat and Three. ...
- Brunch. ...
- Chocolate. ...
- Donuts. ...
- Third Wave Coffee. ...
- Tennessee Whiskey.
With over 3 million visitors each year, Dollywood is the most popular attraction in Tennessee. This theme park has something for the whole family including rides, concerts, a water park, and a spa. The park has won numerous awards for its restaurants, entertainment, and children's activities.
What is the famous street in Nashville with all the bars? ›Find yourself mesmerized by the live music and neon lights of Broadway on Honky Tonk Highway – Nashville's famous street.
Is there a dress code for bars in Nashville? ›
In general, Nashville does not enforce a dress code. If there are dress codes enforced, it's rare. Most of the time, you'll get away with what you want. You'll see lots of t-shirts, jeans, hats, jackets, dresses, cowboy boots and hats.
Where do the celebrities go in Nashville? ›- Luke's 32 Bridge (Luke Bryan) ...
- Whiskey Row (Dierks Bentley) ...
- Casa Rosa (Miranda Lambert) ...
- FGL House (Florida Georgia Line) ...
- Twelve Thirty Club (Justin Timberlake) ...
- Nashville Underground (Gavin DeGraw) ...
- AJ's Good Time Bar (Alan Jackson) ...
- Redneck Riviera (John Rich)
One of the most well-known spots in the city, Printer's Alley in downtown Nashville is a must-see when planning your Nashville vacation. Tucked away between Third and Fourth Avenue, an array of nightclubs and restaurants beckons visitors and locals alike—and holds a vibrant reminder of the city's rich heritage.
What is the most popular part of Nashville? ›The best part of Nashville to stay for first-time visitors is generally Downtown and Music Valley. Both of those areas are close to major attractions and have lots of hotel options.
What food is Nashville known for? ›Nashville is a culinary treasure, known for meat-and-three diners, fiery fried chicken and fluffy biscuits as well as a strong farm-to-table community. Eat like a local with this guide to some of the best places to eat and drink in Music City.
What is the best street to visit in Nashville? ›Nothing exemplifies everything Nashville has to offer like Broadway Street. Running through the heart of downtown Nashville, Broadway Street is home to some of Nashville's best music, restaurants, and bars. To explore this area fully, you'll want to spend a few days in this increidlbe city.
How many days in Nashville is enough? ›How many days do you need in Nashville? Most visitors plan to spend 2 to 3 days in Nashville. This is enough time to get a sense of the city. Depending on what you want to do in Nashville, you might consider spending 4 or 5 days.
What is the dress code in Nashville? ›Overall, wear what you are comfortable in when you are in Nashville. There are no dress codes in Nashville (that I know of), so you can truly get away with what you want. If your style is jeans and graphic t-shirts, go for it.
What is the cheapest month to go to Nashville? ›Book at least 3 weeks before departure in order to get a below-average price. High season is considered to be May, June and July. The cheapest month to fly from United States is January. Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Nashville flight deals.
What is the rainiest month in Nashville? ›May is the wettest month in Nashville and June is far from the dryest.
How do I not look like a tourist in Nashville? ›
- #1 – We Don't All Wear Cowboy Boots. ...
- #2 – Leave the Stetson at Home, Unless You're Going to the Wild Horse Saloon. ...
- #3 – Don't Be Afraid of East Nashville. ...
- #4 – Don't Try to Speak Our Language… ...
- #5 – Order Sweet Tea the Right Way.
The area south of Lower Broadway was, physically, the low point in downtown, and an exceptionally flood-prone place from the Cumberland River up to about Fifth Avenue (which went by another name at the time). For about 100 years, the area south of Broadway in downtown Nashville was known as “Black Bottom.”
What is the most walkable area in Nashville? ›- Hillsboro Village And 12 South. ...
- Germantown - Nashville's Hip Neighborhood. ...
- Downtown Nashville - The Tourists' Neighborhood. ...
- East End - The Locals' Neighborhood. ...
- The Gulch - The Trendy Neighborhood. ...
- West End And Midtown. ...
- Hope Gardens Neighborhood. ...
- Edgehill Neighborhood.
Beyond its history, Belle Meade is an affluent area that boasts homes valued upwards of $20M. The most affluent area in the town is Page Road. There you will find luxury homes that span over 20,000 square feet and that are valued anywhere between $10M and $20M. Tyne Ridge is also notable for high-end living.
What drink is Nashville known for? ›Fruit Tea. The South has sweet tea, but Nashville is known for its fruit tea.
What kind of food is best in Nashville? ›- Meat and Three. ...
- Hot Fried Chicken. ...
- Barbecue. ...
- Country Ham. ...
- Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya. ...
- Grilled Pimento Mac n Cheese. ...
- Fried Catfish. ...
- Biscuits.
Barbecue. From pulled pork to sweetly slathered ribs, Tennessee is known for its mouthwatering barbecue. In addition to sandwiches, you'll find spicy beans, mac 'n cheese, and coleslaw on most barbecue restaurant menus.
What is the least popular vacation spot? ›Perhaps unsurprisingly, the smallest Pacific nation is the world's least visited country. Nauru is just 21 square kilometres, taking just 30 minutes to drive around the entire kidney-bean shaped island, or it can be walked in less than a day.
What is the prettiest place in Tennessee? ›Tennessee is home to countless trails, state and national parks, but Cherokee National Forest in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in East Tennessee is considered to be the most beautiful place in the state.
What is the coolest thing in Tennessee? ›- Sun Studio. 11,944. ...
- Ryman Auditorium. 13,643. ...
- Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. 15,083. ...
- Dollywood. 18,438. ...
- Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery. 7,481. ...
- Titanic Museum Attraction. 10,804. ...
- National Civil Rights Museum - Lorraine Motel. 9,019. ...
- Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine. 7,013. Distilleries.
What is Justin timberlakes bar called in Nashville? ›
Indeed, there's a reason the area around the Twelve Thirty Club has recently been christened “Upper Broadway.” Did Fox manage to create the first honky-tonk in Nashville that's actually chic?
What is the oldest bar in Nashville? ›Springwater Supper Club & Lounge
Springwater Supper Club has been around since 1897 and claims to be Tennessee's oldest bar.
All vendors and bars take debit and credit cards, but if you have cash, don't worry––there are plenty of kiosks where you can use cash to buy a Hall Pass.
What is the Purple bar in Nashville? ›Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, a Nashville country music institution and world-famous honky-tonk, has operated across the alley from the Ryman almost continuously since 1960. Its proprietor from 1960 to 1978, Hattie Louise “Tootsie” Bess, bought the lounge called “Mom's” and named it for herself.
How much is beer at a bar in Nashville? ›Let's start with lower Broadway: the honky-tonks average for a beer is between $6 – $7 for domestic beer like Budweiser or Miller Lite and $7-$10 for premium beer. Liquor shots are between $10-$15, Cocktails are $10-$20, and Wine is $7-$10 each.
Can you wear sneakers at bars? ›Athletic Shoes Or Sneakers
Although sneakers are ideal for all-night comfort, many clubs don't allow them in their dress code, so they are not recommended to wear with club attire. Typically, athletic shoes are not allowed at upscale lounge bars and nightclubs – especially flashy ones that draw attention to them.
With over 100 years under its belt, Springwater has earned its spot as one of Nashville's most iconic bars. Opened in 1897, this no-frills Midtown dive is always good for some live music, a game of eight-ball and a brew.
Where is Reese Witherspoon's home in Nashville? ›She's also been renovating a historic home in the affluent Belle Meade neighborhood of Nashville, as seen on an episode of Netflix's “Get Organized with The Home Edit.”
What famous actors live in Nashville? ›...
- Taylor Swift. ...
- Jason Aldean. ...
- Dolly Parton. ...
- Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. ...
- Jack White. ...
- Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman. ...
- John Rich. ...
- Todd Chrisley.
Alan Jackson's Lower Broadway bar has been voted the number one honky-tonk in Nashville by Billboard Magazine. The three-story hot spot offers something different on each level; a sports bar, karaoke bar, and rooftop bar. Oh, and of course live music!
What is the busiest street in Nashville? ›
Broadway is a major thoroughfare in the downtown area in Nashville, Tennessee. It includes Lower Broadway, an entertainment district renowned for honky tonks and live country music. The street is also home to retail shops, restaurants, dessert spots, tourist attractions, and a few hotels.
What is the safest city in Nashville? ›- West End.
- Belmont.
- Charlotte Park.
- Historic Edgefield.
- Five Points.
- Inglewood.
- Belle Meade.
- Bellevue.
East Nashville is a hotspot for young locals trying to make it big in Music City, as well as those who enjoy diverse, underground shows, great food, and cheap drinks. It's the place to be if you're looking to see Nashville through the eyes of a hipster!
What part of Nashville has the best nightlife? ›This downtown area is the heart of Nashville's nightlife and is the home to countless bars and clubs.
What candy is Nashville known for? ›The Goo Goo Cluster is an American candy bar created in 1912 by Howell Campbell and the Standard Candy Company in Nashville, Tennessee. The disk-shaped candy bar contains marshmallow nougat, caramel, and roasted peanuts covered in milk chocolate.
What sweets is Nashville known for? ›For candy and chocolate lovers, you've got to have the Nashville-original Goo Goo Clusters, which are candy bars filled with caramel, roasted peanuts, and marshmallow nougat, encased in milk chocolate.
What desserts is Nashville known for? ›- Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl Fudge from The Bang Candy Company. ...
- Buttermilk White Chocolate Bar from Olive & Sinclair Chocolate Co. ...
- Ice Cream Sundae from Mike's Ice Cream. ...
- Layer Doughnut from Five Daughters Bakery. ...
- Banana Pudding from the Loveless Cafe. ...
- Cake Pops from Nashville Sweets.
Nashville is one of the top tourism spots in the country–and the world, for that matter. And it's for good reason. Aside from being a music mecca, it's teeming with cultural landmarks, outdoor activities, amazing food, professional sports, and other things to do that make Nashville truly unique.
Are Things in Nashville open? ›Yes, Nashville is open and basically back to normal!
What does it look like in Nashville right now? ›Today's Weather - Nashville, TN
Cloudy. A slight chance of rain this evening then rain and freezing rain after midnight. Ice accumulation of up to a tenth of an inch. Lows in the lower 30s.
Do you have to wear a mask in downtown Nashville? ›
Citizens and visitors of Nashville and Davidson County should wear a cloth face covering or mask to cover their noses and mouths whenever in a community setting, especially in situations where other people are near. These settings include, but are not limited to, grocery stores, pharmacies, and the workplace.
What is the nicest area of Nashville? ›According to CultureTrip, the nicest Nashville neighborhoods are Hillsboro Village, Green Hills, Downtown, East Nashville, 12 South, and Downtown Franklin.
Why are there no sidewalks in Nashville? ›Sidewalks were not included in the new charter; neither the city dwellers nor the suburbanites wanted to pay for them. In the neighborhoods built in Nashville before consolidation, sidewalks fell into disrepair, and new ones weren't built to replace them.
Why is the Bluebird Cafe so famous? ›Though the Bluebird still has a stage, it's best known for hosting shows in the round, with four songwriters facing one another in a circle, right in the middle of the cafe floor. That setup was started in 1985 by songwriters Don Schlitz, Fred Knobloch, Thom Schuyler and Paul Overstreet.
What do I wear to Nashville? ›During the daytime, what to wear to Nashville bars and honky tonks is indeed very casual, and truly, 'anything goes'. You'll see plenty of cowboy hats, cowboy boots, denim shorts, skirts, and blue jeans, as well as tank tops, Nashville graphic tees, sundresses, animal print, and cross-body bags and purses.
What salary do you need to live in Nashville? ›According to a GOBankingRates report published in September 2020, homeowners in Nashville need an average annual income of $84,787, while renters require an average income of $87,115.
Are drugs a problem in Nashville? ›Although Nashville has many appealing factors, there are many in the area who are plagued by addiction, which has stemmed directly from the opioid epidemic. Here at Southeast Addiction, we've made it our personal mission to help our patients curb their substance use issues.
What is the coldest month in Nashville? ›Nashville's coldest month is January when the average temperature overnight is 27.9°F. In July, the warmest month, the average day time temperature rises to 88.7°F.
Do you have to be vaccinated to visit Nashville? ›All arrivals to Tennessee, including citizens and residents, are recommended to present a negative PCR test upon arrival. Vaccinated arrivals from any country can enter as tourists.
Does Nashville still have a curfew? ›There is a curfew for juveniles, any person age 17 and under, to be off the streets within the city of Nashville at night from midnight on Friday and Saturday nights, and 10 p.m. on all other nights until 5 a.m. HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THE CURFEW?
Does Nashville have a vaccine mandate? ›
The U.S. Supreme Court grants Tennessee and 26 other states' request to stay the mandate describing the vaccine-or-test requirement as a “significant encroachment into the lives- and health-of a vast number of employees.”