15 top things to do in Nashville (2024)

Nashville may be best known as the home of country music, but this dynamic city contains multitudes – you can catch up-and-coming talent on intimate stages, eat at some of the South’s best restaurants or hike through gorgeous wetlands bursting with wildlife.

Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Nashville.

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1. Make a pilgrimage to the Mother Church of Country Music

The Ryman Auditorium is Nashville’s premier music venue –this historic stage was the original home of the Grand Ole' Opry and where superstars like Dolly Parton, Hank Williams and Johnny Cash jump-started their careers. Today it continues to welcome an impressive roster of country royalty, indie artists and internationally renowned speakers to its hallowed halls.

2. Discover Nashville rock ‘n’ roll at Basement East

Nashville may be known for its country scene, but Music City rocks hard. If you’re more into electric guitars than banjos, head to the Basement East. This local venue survived an encounter with a 2020 tornado and continues to churn out high-energy shows ranging from national touring acts to local cover bands. And if you’re lucky, one of Nashville’s rock elite just may make a surprise guest appearance.

3. Explore the artsy neighborhood of Wedgewood-Houston

This former industrial area is experiencing a major boom, but luckily it’s managed to hold on to some of the quirkiness that originally made it a haven for Nashville’s local art scene.

Edgy galleries like Zeitgeist and the Packing Plant commingle with unique bars – Diskin Cider,Flamingo Cocktail Club and Never Never, to name a few – and a growing number of delicious restaurants. Stop by on the first Saturday of every month for the neighborhood’s buzzy art crawl.

Detour: Just because Nashville loves its down-home cooking doesn’t mean it doesn’t appreciate inventive high-end food, and the kitchen at Bastion delivers one of the best chef-curated tasting menus in the city.

4. Catch an MLS game at the new Geodis Park

Nashville’s newly minted Major League Soccer team has shown that this southern city embraces all versions of football. Locals show up en masse to cheer on the Coyotes at the sparkling new Geodis Park;come decked out in team colors and revel in a spirited night of soccer alongside a raucous crowd.

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5. Learn about music history at the National Museum of African American Music

Black music has been – and continues to be – the driving force behind the American music scene at large, and this expertly curated museum takes you through the history of these contributions, from jazz and blues to today’s rock and hip-hop scenes. Expect a hands-on approach – you can record yourself singing with a gospel choir, compose your own blues ballad or even participate in a virtual dance battle.

6. Go for a float on the Harpeth River

Nashville is a river city crisscrossed by large water thoroughfares and a circulatory system of smaller rivers and creeks. You can find some relief from the southern heat by paddling your way down the Harpeth River, an easygoing waterway perfect for lazy floats in the sun. If you’ve got your own boat, you can access the river at several different locations in and around Harpeth River State Park; if you need to rent a vessel, try booking with Foggy Bottom Canoe or Canoe Music City.

Planning tip: Always check the forecast for the day before your outing – heavy rains can make the water levels rise to dangerous levels. Follow Foggy Bottom or Canoe Music City on social media for updates on weather-related closures.

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7. Listen to the next big thing at the Bluebird’s famous songwriter rounds

Even before the show Nashville made it a household name, the Bluebird Cafe has been a legendary locale for singer-songwriter rounds featuring the best of the best –Garth Brooks, Taylor Swift and Keith Urban all graced this stage before they hit it big. It’s all about the listening experience at this bar-restaurant, which puts audiences up close with both rising and established talent.

Planning tip: The Bluebird’s storied status makes it a hot ticket – always book ahead.

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8. Take a hike at one of Nashville’s green spaces

Nashville may be an urban metropolis, but it’s also a place that values its green spaces. Head to Percy and Edwin Warner Parks to clock some miles on trails that feel far more remote than you’d think, or walk the extensive greenway at Shelby Bottoms, alongside East Nashville families. If you’re a wildlife fan, don’t skip Radnor Lake State Park, a striking nature reserve home to critters like barred owls, bald eagles, beavers, turtles and wild turkeys.

Planning tip: Outdoor Nashville is so much fun to explore, but be careful during the hot months of July and August – temperatures and humidity levels soar and can be dangerous. Always bring water with you.

9. Learn to salsa dance at Plaza Mariachi

Managed by the Hispanic Family Foundation, this cultural center/music venue/food hall hosts everything from mariachi concerts to ballet folkórico performances to thumping DJ sets, but our favorite is the Bailamos party. Come early to learn salsa, bachata and merengue, and then test out your new skills on the dance floor the rest of the night.

Detour: Nashville is home to the country’s largest Kurdish community, and just across the street from Plaza Mariachi you’ll findEdessa Restaurantserving Kurdish and Turkish cuisine. Order the kabob festival for an indulgent culinary journey you won’t soon forget.

10. Admire exhibitions at Nashville’s art deco treasure, the Frist Art Museum

At the center of Nashville’s thriving art scene sits the Frist Art Museum, a stunning space featuring rotating art exhibitions that range from exuberant contemporary installations to mid-century Italian concept cars to illustrated medieval textbooks. Housed in an art deco–era post office, this museum also hosts art workshops, live music events, lectures series and more.

11. Support local at Honeytree Meadery

Local businesses are Nashville’s beating heart, and the network of friendly folks working at and with Honeytree Meadery exemplify the camaraderie that can be found among business owners here. Their perfectly balanced mead is made with honey from East Nashville beekeepers; a favorite is the Flower Garden, a floral take on the old classic made with tea from local herbal experts High Garden, who lost their building across the street during the 2020 tornado.

If you’re hungry, snag a delectable creation from Alebrije truck parked out front, specializing in Mexico-City-style tacos made with heirloom corn tortillas.

12. Test your taste buds at Prince’s Hot Chicken

Nashville hot chicken is an institution, and it all started with Prince’s, the city’s original hot-chicken shop. Still run by the great-niece of the founder, Prince’s brings the heat. Go easy with mild spice or give it all you’ve got with XXX hot – either way, you’ll be indulging in a quintessentially Nashville experience.

13. Join a dance party at the Blue Room

Part of Third Man Records' headquarters – owned by Nashville’s most eccentric frontman, Jack White of the White Stripes and the Raconteurs – the Blue Room is a surreal art space/bar that hosts poetry readings, theater performances, film screenings and curated dance parties. It also features a cool “infinity wall,” a giant (fake) elephant head and a lush outdoor space, making an atmospheric setting for a night out.

Detour: Just around the corner from Third Man and the Blue Room is Tennessee Brew Works, one of the few local breweries that has truly nailed the art of having both excellent beer and excellent food. Open mics and live music also hit the small stage throughout the week – we love Bluegrass Wednesdays.

14. Watch the sunset from a downtown rooftop

Nashville’s ever-growing skyline is home to a number of spectacular rooftop bars delivering 360-degree views of Music City, each one with its own distinct personality. Channel your inner rockstar at the Bobby Hotel rooftop lounge, check out the latest themed pop-up at the Fairlane or swim in the infinity pool of the L27 Rooftop Lounge.

Detour: Nashville has bars in the sky – and bars down below. Seek out the Noelle’s Hidden Bar for a magical treat.

15. Tour the famous RCA Studio B

Now a branch of the Country Music Hall of Fame, RCA Studio B is a must-see for anyone interested in Nashville’s music history – you can tour the birthplace of what became known as the Nashville Sound, a particular recording style that highlighted background vocals and string instruments. Industry titans like Dolly Parton and Elvis Presley recorded some of their biggest hits here.

This article was first published Jun 30, 2021 and updated Apr 14, 2023.

15 top things to do in Nashville (2024)

FAQs

What is not to be missed in Nashville? ›

12 sites not to be missed in Nashville
  • Patsy Cline Museum.
  • Johnny Cash Museum.
  • Glen Campbell Museum.
  • Country Music Hall of Fame.
  • National Museum of African American Music.
  • Musician's Hall of Fame.
  • Tennessee State Capitol.
  • Tennessee State Museum.
Feb 15, 2023

What is the main attraction street in Nashville? ›

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.

Where do famous people hang in Nashville? ›

Bones recommended bars like Red Door, Tin Roof, or Losers (all in Midtown) as spots to occasionally see celebs. "But it's more of the places that people aren't, that's where people that are famous are," Bones said—like Franklin, Brentwood and other isolated spots.

What to be careful of in Nashville? ›

Tourist Self-Awareness Safety Tips
  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • If being followed, drive to hospital, fire-hall, 24-hr. ...
  • Travel in well lit areas.
  • Travel with someone.
  • Always lock doors immediately when entering vehicle.
  • Be familiar with changing a flat tire...at a minimum have all the tools you'll need.

Is it safe to walk in downtown Nashville at night? ›

Do people feel safe walking around late at night? Are there any areas of the city that are considered dangerous or best avoided? safe to walk in Downtown Nashville at all hours of the day and night. Statistically, you are at a very low risk of any violent crime.

What food is Nashville known for? ›

Hot Chicken

What is Nashville's signature dish? Hot chicken is always going to be near the top of the list. When it comes to the best place to get this Nashville food favorite, there are a few contenders. Hattie B's is a staple, with locations sprinkled across the city and offering five different spice levels.

What do people wear in Nashville? ›

Casual clothing is the norm. Locals emphasize Nashville's casual vibe. Dressing up is welcomed, but cowboy attire may label you as a visitor. If you don't mind people knowing you're there for a good time then feel free to express yourself in trendy areas like West End or East Nashville and go full cowboy!

What is the best day of the week to go to Nashville? ›

Mondays are when Nashville comes alive with the sound of singer-songwriters. “Big Stage Mondays” at 3rd and Lindsley is where you can see musicians take the spotlight to play their newest melodies.

Can you drink on the street in Nashville? ›

It shall be a violation for any person, while in or on a street, alley, sidewalk, parking lot, parking garage or other area generally open to the public, except (1) enclosed structures, (2) premises owned by scientific, religious or educational institutions, or (3) premises specifically permitted or licensed for the on ...

What's the difference between Broadway and Music Row in Nashville? ›

No, it isn't Lower Broadway, the neon-lined, tourist-welcoming strip of honky-tonks and bars in downtown Nashville (although it is often confused with it!). Instead, Music Row is the section of Nashville where the country music publishers, record labels, and recording studios are located.

What is the most popular strip in Nashville? ›

The Broadway Historic District — more commonly known as Lower Broadway — is the place to go for live music, drinking, dining, shopping, and more in Nashville.

What bars do country singers go to in Nashville? ›

Here's a guide to all the celebrity-owned honkytonks on Broadway.
  • Blake Shelton's Ole Red. ...
  • Jason Aldean's Kitchen + Rooftop Bar. ...
  • Dierks Bentley's Whiskey Row. ...
  • Luke's 32 Bridge Food + Drink. ...
  • A.J.'s Good Time Bar. ...
  • Miranda Lambert's Casa Rosa Tex Mex Cantina. ...
  • Lainey Wilson's Bell Bottoms Up.
Mar 27, 2024

Where did Elvis stay in Nashville? ›

We are located on the sixth floor of the historic Spence Manor building, which was originally built as a five-star hotel for Elvis to stay when he recorded at RCA Studio B. Other notables who stayed at Spence Manor include The Beatles, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and many more.

What to know before visiting Nashville? ›

Here's our top 10 list of must-dos in Music City, starting with a top-notch city tour!
  • Gray Line Tennessee's Nashville City Tour. ...
  • Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. ...
  • Experience Live Music on Broadway. ...
  • Discover the Ryman Auditorium. ...
  • Stroll Through Centennial Park and Visit the Parthenon.
Jun 25, 2024

What is the safest part of Nashville TN? ›

Safe, Affordable Neighborhoods in Nashville in 2024
  • Germantown.
  • Green Hills.
  • Hillsboro West End.
  • Historic Edgefield.
  • Inglewood.
Jun 21, 2024

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