Known as the Music City, Nashville is a party bus full of fun, excitement, and vibrancy and attracts over 15 million visitors annually. And it’s not just about country music. Nashville boasts an exciting lineup of attractions that go beyond the music too. In this post, you’ll discover some of the best things to do in Nashville. After spending over 12 years living here, I’m proud to call myself a local and give y’all the best recommendations.
What are the best neighborhoods to explore in Nashville?
Nashville is a city with many unique neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm!
- 12 South – About 10 min from downtown, this neighborhood is full of excellent places to dine and some great local shops and is a great area to walk around and grab something to eat. Bartaco, Urban Grub, and Burger Up are a few of my favorites. End your day (or start it?) with a sweet treat from one of the area’s boutique bakeries, including Five Daughters and Jeni’s Ice Cream. Also check out White’s Mercantile for some unique local goods!
- The Gulch – Within walking distance from downtown via the pedestrian bridge, The Gulch has a ton of options for shopping and dining. It’s a trendy neighborhood that’s definitely worth a visit. The streets are lined with boutiques and some of the best restaurants in the city. You’ll love the vibrant atmosphere! You’ll also find the historic Station Inn nestled into a random street corner. More on that below!
- Sobro “South of Broadway” – this is an area south of Broadway in the heart of Downtown. Steeped in music history and buzzing with life, it’s a must-visit for all music enthusiasts. And when hunger hits, it’s home to The Southern Farmhouse, and more! Also, make sure to pay a visit to the legendary Country Music Hall of Fame. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Nashville’s music history. Trust me, it’s a melody-filled journey you won’t forget! Also, take a visit to the Jonny Cash Museum for an afternoon activity.
- Germantown – Ready to indulge in some local flavor? Make a beeline for Germantown. Just a short 5-minute drive or a quick Uber ride away from Broadway, this neighborhood is a haven for foodies. Walking may not be the best option, as it’s a bit of a stretch, but once there, you’ll be rewarded with a variety of top-notch bars and restaurants, including Henrieta Red and City House, two of my favorites.
- Midtown/West End – Step into the bustling Midtown/West End, where life revolves around Vanderbilt University. This lively neighborhood offers a multitude of choices for foodies and pub crawlers alike. Centennial Park, a centerpiece of the Midtown/West End district, is an urban oasis that deserves a spot on your Nashville to-do list. Spread over 132 acres, this park is home to the iconic Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the ancient Greek temple. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a green escape, Centennial Park has something for everyone.
- East Nashville. A hub for artists, musicians, and foodies, this hip neighborhood offers a plethora of unique eateries, indie shops, and colorful murals, and unique restaurants (see a theme here?). It’s the perfect place to soak up some local culture and flavor, and is just a quick Uber ride across the river.
What Are the Best Music Venues in Nashville?
Nashville is known as the Music City for a reason, and it has a plethora of music venues to choose from and has over 180 live music venues.
- Grand Ole Opry: The Grand Ole Opry, the heart of country music, has showcased talent since 1925. Whether you’re a country fan or not, the history and the energy here are palpable (and has been broadcasting live country music performances for over 90 years).
- The Ryman Auditorium – One of the most iconic and historic music venues in Nashville is the Ryman Auditorium which is BY far my favorite. It’s an old church in the heart of downtown, and the acoustics are amazing and the atmosphere is unforgettable. The tour of the Ryman is also great if you can’t get in to see a show during your visit. It has hosted legendary artists such as Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, and Dolly Parton. If you’re a fan of country music, the Ryman Auditorium is a must-visit.
- Bluebird Cafe – A small, historic venue located in Green Hills, about 5 miles outside of downtown, this venue has been featured on the show Nashville and is also a local hangout. This intimate venue is where both Garth Brooks and Taylor Swift got their start. A night here is a melody you’ll remember forever. Many songwriters still play here. Tickets purchased online, in advance, are required.
- Ascend Amphitheater– Enjoy a concert under the stars in downtown Nashville, with the city skyline setting the stage. Check out their website and discover the shows.
- Schermerhorn Symphony Center: If you are a fan of classical music, the Schermerhorn Symphony Center is a must-visit destination. The Nashville Symphony is known for its exceptional performances and has won multiple Grammy Awards. The acoustics in the concert hall are top-notch, providing an immersive and unforgettable listening experience. Many concert series are also held here, besides the Nashville Symphony. I saw both Boys II Men and Little River Band play here on different occasions with the symphony and it was fabulous.
- The Station Inn: A legendary bluegrass music venue in Nashville, this is the runner-up on my list. It’s a small and cozy venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in bluegrass music, such as Bill Monroe and Ricky Skaggs. The Station Inn is known for its authentic and traditional bluegrass music, and it’s a must-visit for any bluegrass fan. You never know who you might see – on my last visit there, I ran into Vince Gill!
Broadway Honky Tonks
Get ready to turn your Nashville trip into an adventure! While it’s impossible to explore all of Nashville’s honky tonks in a single trip, I’ve highlighted some must-visits for you. Broadway doesn’t cost a dime, unless you count the $9 beers, but don’t forget to tip the bands and show a little appreciation! My husband played on Broadway for a long time, and I can assure you, bands are not paid what they should be so tip often and well! Don’t have cash? They all take Venmo!
- Robert’s Western World: One of the original honky tonks in Nashville. They only play old-school country music, and they have the best greasy cheeseburger and bologna sandwich for a late-night snack. (a local favorite) Be warned, it is a dive bar, but a classic. Don’t judge this place on the state of their restroom. Ask me how I know.
- The Stage – Another original honky tonk. Some friends of ours play there, “Whiskey, Cash and Roses”. Highly recommend stopping in. I also met my husband here. True story.
- Tootsies – An iconic honky-tonk bar where you can enjoy live country music. It’s a must-visit spot for music lovers, as it’s one of the originals. The bar has three stages where live music is played every day of the week. It has hosted some of the biggest names in country music, including Willie Nelson, Patsy Cline, and Waylon Jennings. It is also a popular spot for up-and-coming musicians.
- Acme Feed and Seed – Excellent country/bluegrass music on the first floor, and really good casual options for lunch and dinner. They do not take reservations. They have a counter service menu downstairs, and a sushi table-service restaurant on the second floor. Their rooftop bar, presents a stunning view of Broadway, the river, and the Nissan Stadium, home to the Titans.
- Jason Aldean’s/Luke Bryan’s 52 Bridge – One of the “new” honky tonks, these two are my favorite. They are separate bars, but they are connected. Both have decent food options as well for a quick meal and nice rooftops if you want some fresh air. They also have music on every floor (as most places do).
- Kid Rock’s Big Ass Honky Tonk – This place is usually insane at all hours of the night, but if you want to be entertained by people-watching, this is your spot.
- Nudies – I enjoy the vibe of this place, and have a large 57 Cadillac hanging from the ceiling. Named Nudies after the tailor known for making rhinestone-studded “Nudie suits” for stars like Elvis Presley, Hank Williams, and Elton John. Worth checking out.
- Legends Corner – Another classic! If you’re looking to get away from the crowds, stop in for a drink to get out of the mosh pit.
While I know it can be tempting to frequent all the “new” commercialized bars on Broadway, I encourage you to visit some of the originals I mentioned above, which are the true heart and soul of Nashville, and have shaped Nashville’s rise to the top. Please show them some love!
What are some unique things to do in Nashville?
- Pinewood Social – Also an excellent dining spot downtown, this place offers everything. They have an old-school bowling alley from the ’60s (you keep score!), as well as a tiki bar with swimming pools and bocce ball. Check out their website for more info.
- Printer’s Alley is a little alley just a few blocks from Broadway that has a great bar: Bourbon St Boogie Blues Bar, you’ll be sure to hear your favorite sing-alongs and have dinner at New Orleans’ themed Skulls Rainbow Room if you’ve had enough of the “country” vibe.
- Arrington Vineyards – This is a drive from Nashville (located in Arrington, TN about 40 min outside of town), but it is worth it if you can get there. Founded in 2005, this winery is owned by country music legend Kicks Brooks and has a ton of wines available for purchase, as well as live music on the weekends. I love this place so much and its wines – it is beautiful and a great way to spend an afternoon in the summer. Get there within an hour or two of opening time in the summer to ensure a table.
- Cheekwood is a historic estate + gardens, built in 1929 by the Cheek family, who made their fortune in the Maxwell House coffee business. The estate spans over 55 acres and features 12 distinct gardens, including a Japanese garden, a wildflower garden, and a water garden. In addition to the gardens, Cheekwood also has a museum with rotating art exhibits and a permanent collection. Throughout the year, Cheekwood hosts a variety of events and festivals, such as the Cheekwood in Bloom, Fall at Cheekwood, spring festival, and the Holiday Lights winter festival. It’s absolutely beautiful and we visit it many times every year.
- Local breweries! We have quite a few if you’re into that: Yee Haw Brewery & Moonshine Tasting (downtown), Jackalope (women-owned), Diskin Cider, Tailgate Brewery, Southern Grist, Little Harpeth, Czann’s, Yazoo, East Nashville Beer Works to name some of the most popular. Many of these breweries offer tours and tastings, so be sure to check their websites for more information. And if you’re unsure where to start, consider taking a brewery tour to sample a variety of Nashville’s best craft beers.
- Patterson House – Patterson House is a speakeasy-style bar located in Midtown. It is known for its craft cocktails and intimate atmosphere. The bar is named after a former Nashville mayor, Malcolm Patterson, who served in the early 1900s. The menu features a variety of classic and original cocktails, with a focus on using fresh ingredients and house-made syrups and bitters. Reservations recommended.
- Top Golf – A fun way to spend an afternoon hitting golf balls. Bar food menu plus lots of cocktails and beers. Especially great for rainy days because the bays are covered. Reservations for bays do fill up in advance, but walk-ins are welcome.
- Go for a river cruise on the General Jackson Showboat. The General Jackson Showboat is a unique way to experience Nashville and is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city. Visitors can enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the sights and sounds of the Cumberland River. The boat also offers live music shows, including country, gospel, and rock and roll performances. If you do this, get there early, because the lines for drinks become a bit ridiculous closer to departure (affiliated with Gaylord Opryland).
- Bridgestone Arena – With a variety of acts, music concerts, and sports events staged here throughout the year, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the city’s vibrant energy first-hand. Make sure to check the arena’s schedule before you plan your trip. Who knows, you might luck out and score tickets to a pulsating live concert or a fast-paced sports event, also home to the Nashville Predators!
- Country Music Hall of Fame – Located right off of Broadway, this is an amazing compilation of all things from the beginning of Country music to the modern day. A great option to check out during the day. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has over 2.5 million artifacts.
- National Museum of African American Music – This is new as of 2020 and is so well done and includes many interactive exhibits! I loved my visit here. Located in 5th and Broadway, this is something that could be done in the morning/early afternoon for a few hours.
- Nashville Sounds Baseball – Nashville Sounds is a minor-league, Triple-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers and play in the Pacific Coast League. The stadium is located in Germantown, these minor league games are so much fun in April through September, and the scoreboard is shaped like a guitar, of course. If you’re a baseball fan or just looking for a fun night out, catching a Nashville Sounds game is definitely worth considering. You can enjoy great food, drinks, and entertainment while watching some talented players showcase their skills on the field. Tip: Score day-of tickets for $10, get there when the gates open and grab a seat in the Band Box!
- Nashville’s mural tour is a popular activity for tourists and locals alike. The tour takes visitors to various neighborhoods in the city to see the vibrant and colorful murals that adorn the walls of buildings all over the city. Come selfie ready.
- Try Nashville Hot Chicken! The origins of Nashville hot chicken can be traced back to Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack, a family-owned restaurant that has been serving the dish since the 1930s. Legend has it that the dish was created as a way to get revenge on a cheating boyfriend, but regardless of its origins, it has become a beloved part of Nashville’s food culture. Another place to try is Hattie B’s, with a location in 5th and Broadway.
Nashville famously referred to as the ‘Music City’, is a hub of incredible experiences and memorable adventures. You’ve read through my list and now you know, you’re never left wanting fun things to do in Nashville.
From its iconic music scene to the glorious food (check out my other post on restaurants coming soon), there’s something for everyone in Nashville.
Remember, the places I mentioned are just a small part of what the city has to offer, so if I left something off the list, leave a comment below.
xo
Anna