50 Things to do in Nashville in 2024 (2024)

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What’s special about this place?

Located in Nashville’s historic U.S. Post Office building, Frist Art Museum is home to art from around the world with new pieces rotating through every one to two months. Formerly known as the First Center for the Visual Arts, it’s now a must-visit destination for every tourist looking to connect with the city on a deeper level through the works of Picasso and the likes.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Art connoisseurs and rookies alike are welcome to explore the diverse collections of the oldest and the latest art that never stays in the museum for long (there are no permanent exhibits). Kids won’t get bored either — the section in the museum designed for children is expansive enough to allow them to watercolor paint, build, sketch, and learn and create art of all forms.

What to do here?

Spend some time investigating the many exhibits the museum offers which have previously included Roman, Japanese, Australian Aboriginal art, vintage automobiles expo, and the works of Nashville-born artists among others. Don’t skip the Martin ArtQuest Gallery featuring 30 interactive stations you can scratch your creative itch at and, if you get lucky, watch the free music show, Music at the Frist, at the local cafe hosted once per month.

Best Time to Visit

Plan to stay at the Frist Art Museum for at least a couple of hours to check out most of the exhibitions it has. It gets busy on Saturdays and Sundays in the afternoon and sees fewer people on Thursdays and Fridays. So, if you want to avoid crowds, visit the museum during the week.

Learn more about Frist Art Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

To get a feel of Nashville’s music heritage, give Ryman Auditorium situated between Fourth and Fifth Avenues a half-block off-Broadway to the north a visit. This self-proclaimed ‘hallowed ground’ for music is a true soul of the city where entertaining shows featuring Amy Grant, Tedeschi Trucks Band, and Vince Gill are a common occurrence.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

While there are virtually no age restrictions for events held at Ryman Auditorium, some musical concerts might have some rules restricting the young audience from attending in place. If you’re interested in learning more about the world’s musical history and just so happen to be in Nashville when a famous music icon is scheduled to perform in this Auditorium, go grab a ticket ASAP.

What to do here?

Aside from taking a self-guided or a backstage tour, you can buy a ticket to one of the shows and brag to your friends that you’ve seen your favorite musician perform live. There’s also a recording studio to make your own record and bring it home as a souvenir if you feel like challenging yourself to a musical dare.

Best Time to Visit

Open every day of the week, Ryman Auditorium closes as early as 4 PM. This means that you’ll have to come early if you want to explore the live performance venue before the show begins and without too many people strolling around. As expected, Saturdays tend to be the busiest.

Learn more about Ryman Auditorium here!

What’s special about this place?

Just outside of CMA Theater, there’s one of the world’s largest museums dedicated to preserving American music known as the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. It has a 2-million-item collection of musical memorabilia including instruments, recordings, photos, and other multimedia elements that explain perfectly well the nickname it’s received as the ‘Smithsonian of Country Music’.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

You don’t even need to be a country music fanatic to appreciate what Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has to offer — that’s how iconic this place is. You’ll find relics like Elvis Presley’s ‘Solid Gold’ Cadillac painted with fish scales and crushed diamonds and some of the musical instruments belonging to Carrie Underwood and Taylor Swift making it a must-visit stop when in Nashville.

What to do here?

Dress in your go-to cowboy outfit, purchase an admission ticket and mingle over the exhibits and artifacts left by the famous musicians until you feel satiated from getting close to your idols. You can also stop and browse the two-story wall covered with gold and platinum country records produced by the biggest labels in history.

Best Time to Visit

To see all there is to see in the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, visitors typically spend here about 2 to 3 hours. If you want to avoid long queues, consider stopping by during the week as Friday along with Saturday and Sunday are the most crowded days, especially past afternoon.

Learn more about Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

Even though Nashville is filled with clubs and pubs that make every tourist want to stay in the city for longer, there’s nothing quite like the moonshine bar Bootleggers Inn where you can taste the authentic Southern liquor and listen to some live music. It won’t catch your attention straight away — the bar is quiet and dim-lit — but once you find it, you’ll be surprised by how lively and atmospheric it is.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you feel like having a drink at the end of your stay in Nashville and sing your heart out to your beloved country tunes for the last time before leaving the city, Bootleggers Inn is the right spot to drop by.

What to do here?

Sit at the table lit by the vintage chandeliers, order a jalapeno or an apple pie moonshine, and pay attention to the music streaming in the form of indie crooners or guitar strummers. The vibe surrounding Nashville’s underground music scene will help you dive deeper into the cultural heritage of the city without having to visit any of the museums if that’s not your cup of tea.

Best Time to Visit

The bar is open most days which means that there’s a good chance that it’ll be open when you visit Tennessee’s most populous city Nashville. That said, to catch the right type of crowd, come on a Friday or a Saturday night. This is when the crowds are the loudest and the music performances are the most memorable.

Learn more about Bootleggers Inn here!

What’s special about this place?

Only one minute walk from Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, there’s a local treasure known as Hatch Show Print that has been designing legendary posters that have been reproduced multiple times for nearly 150 years now. It’s one of the oldest letterpress shops operating to this day in America that’s open for tours and making purchases.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you appreciate unique and quirky art pieces that look cool and unlike anything you’ve ever seen before, you must pay a visit here. At Hatch Show Print, you’ll be able to not only snatch a fully customizable souvenir for yourself but also check out temporary exhibitions and displays of archival posters.

What to do here?

Watch how the old-fashioned printing machines work, pay to get a customizable poster to bring back home with you and stay to examine the figures from the local exhibit unique to Hatch Show Print. You can even sign up for a tour of the place and a workshop if interested in finding out how letter printing works.

Best Time to Visit

If you’re already visiting the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, it makes sense to stop by Hatch Show Print no matter the time of the day. But if you have a choice to pop in at some other time, consider coming before 12 PM or after 2 PM to avoid crowds.

Learn more about Hatch Show Print here!

What’s special about this place?

Nestled in the city’s upscale neighborhood The Gulch, Arnold’s Country Kitchen doesn’t quite fit at the first glance. But don’t let the cafeteria label fool you — the quality and the taste of the food brings in tons of people irrespective of the day of the week. Proudly carrying the title of a diner with a James Beard award, it’s the place to be for savoring authentic Southern food.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you don’t want to beat around the bush and go straight to the place where they serve the best “meat & 3” in town, Arnold’s Country Kitchen should be on your radar. The menu isn’t huge but it’s diverse enough for every foodie to find their new favorite Southern dish.

What to do here?

Plan your visit if you want to get a seat at Arnold’s and try their roast beef with a side of creamed corn, and coleslaw. If you’re into seafood, get yourself an order of fried shrimp or blackened trout and wash it down with the restaurant’s specialty lemonade.

Best Time to Visit

Arnold’s Country Kitchen isn’t open only for lunch during the weekdays anymore — you can come on any day of the week except for Sunday. The afternoons on Fridays and Saturdays tend to be the most crowded, while early mornings most days of the week are the least busy.

Learn more about Arnold’s Country Kitchen here!

What’s special about this place?

Having been closed to automobiles since 1998, John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge has become the go-to spot for tourists to see Nashville from above. The views of the Cumberland river mixed in make every spectator want to take their camera out and shoot a few pictures before it gets too dark.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Everyone who can appreciate the breathtaking scenery of a new city will want to cross the bridge at sunrise or sunset (or, better, both). If you’re planning on exploring both the suburb of East Nashville and the downtown area, the bridge is the perfect link between the two.

What to do here?

Come here to see the panoramic views of Nashville once you become exhausted from roaming through the busy crowds in the center of the city. There aren’t any benches to sit on, but they aren’t necessary to still enjoy the landscape. Besides, you can take a bike and cycle through the bridge too if that’s how you’d prefer to end your day of sightseeing.

Best Time to Visit

Spanning 960 meters, John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge is one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world you can cross at any time of the day. Since it connects two different neighborhoods, it’s always open for traversing (even though you might find it to become crowded at sunsets).

What’s special about this place?

For immersing yourself in what’s known as the life of the city, Broadway is the best thoroughfare to explore. Stretching for seemingly countless blocks of neon-lit pubs, restaurants, honky-tonks, and saloons, it’s the entertainment central you can’t miss when in Nashville. There’s plenty to do in the daytime too including taking a tram and hopping off when there’s a restaurant or an antique store you want to get a closer look at.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Located in the heart of Nashville, you’re likely to find yourself in the Broadway Historic district at least once during your stay in the city. So why not make the most of it and research the best places to eat, drink, dance, and see beforehand? There’s something for everyone here.

What to do here?

Tour Broadway during the day and go all out in the night. There are restaurants for having brunch and music venues for getting loud. There are also rooftops bars with swimming pools to chill at and mechanical bulls to ride. Some of the hottest spots include Layla’s, Legends Corner, Honky Tonk Central, and Paradise Park Trailer Resort.

Best Time to Visit

Being the center of all activities happening in the city, there’s no right or wrong way or time to explore Broadway. Pick the places you’d like to visit the most and plan your time in the Broadway district accordingly.

What’s special about this place?

Everyone knows Grand Ole Opry from the radio show that started broadcasting in the 1920s and had given Nashville the title of the Country Music Capital of the World. Today, it’s a music venue that still hosts country music legends like Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, and Brad Paisley.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’ve ever wanted to hear your favorite country music artists live, there isn’t a better place to do this than here, inside the Grand Ole Opry. Those who aren’t satisfied with a single performance, though, are welcome to tour the backstage too.

What to do here?

Apart from watching the show, you can get an insider’s look at what’s going on behind the scenes (read=curtains) by choosing to join the post-show tour, daytime tour, or VIP tour. There you’ll learn more about the music legends who’ve stepped their feet on this stage, check out the stars’ dressing rooms, and perhaps even step on the iconic stage yourself.

Best Time to Visit

Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays tend to see the biggest crowds after 6 PM. This means that if you want to tour the Grand Ole Opry without too many visitors, come in the morning or on some other day. Granted, you might not be able to do that if you have a show booked for one particular time.

Learn more about Grand Ole Opry here!

What’s special about this place?

You don’t have to go too far to stroll among the 3,100 acres of forest and field, Percy and Edwin Warner Park is situated just nine miles away from the downtown. It’s one of the largest municipal parks in Nashville and rightfully so — you can not only cycle through it but also go hiking, have picnics, and have golf.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Every nature lover will feel at peace at Percy and Edwin Warner Park. Fitness enthusiasts are welcome too as there are twelve miles of hiking trails and more than enough space for cycling too. Golfing is also an option, so consider making a trip to this park if you’re into this sport.

What to do here?

If you’re coming to the park with family, rest assured that everyone will have something to get occupied with. Children can read books while laying on the picnic blanket and the adults can learn more about their surroundings and play golf afterward at one of the two golf courses.

Best Time to Visit

Open to visitors every day of the week, Percy and Edwin Warner Park gather the biggest crowds on Saturdays. To avoid big masses of people, consider visiting during the week either before the afternoon or in the evening after 5 PM.

Learn more about Percy and Edwin Warner Park here!

What’s special about this place?

A Nashville original since 2003, Yazoo Brewing Company continues to wow tourists with unparalleled tours featuring beer sampling and learning about the brand itself. It’s quickly become the local’s favorite spot to savor some delicious handcrafted beer and chat about everything under the sun. Tourists became interested shortly after.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Hooray, beer lovers over the age of 21, you’re in luck because Yazoo Brewing Company doesn’t play when it comes to serving the best beer available in Nashville. Whether it’s a couple of sips you’ll enjoy at the end of the day or a way for you to interact with locals, you’ll likely be telling your friends and family about this locale.

What to do here?

Pick the most fitting time of the tour, bring your best attitude, and enjoy the selection of Yazoo beers that are proudly handcrafted in Nashville. Choose from beer on draft at the bar, at the gate, or in the concourse, and don’t forget to buy a pack of 6 bottles by the time you’re done with the tour. It’s only right to share the flavors you got to experience yourself with your loved ones.

Best Time to Visit

Even though the brewery is open every day, there are specific periods when you’re allowed to join the tours. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, you can pick from 5 PM and 6 PM tours, whereas on Fridays, in addition to the 5 PM and 6 PM tours, there’s also a 7 PM tour available.

Learn more about Yazoo Brewing Company here!

What’s special about this place?

Music legends like Dolly Parton and Elvis Presley have recorded tracks in RCA Studio B that is now a Country Music Hall of Fame-operated museum. Today, young producers in the making can get educated on the mastery behind recording music within the walls of the former music recording studio (and you — tour the facility).

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to be a diehard country music fan to enjoy a tour at RCA Studio B. Sure, you’ll come across quite a few while exploring the studio and the instruments singers used to play, but there’s a lot more to it that every music geek will come to appreciate.

What to do here?

Listen to the music in the place where it was recorded, stand on the spot where Carrie Underwood stood while singing her heart out, and investigate the inventory used by the musical artists to record hits. Feel the energy so many iconic vocalists poured into the studio many decades ago — it’s still present in the building.

Best Time to Visit

To visit the studio, you have to book a tour. They take place every hour from 10:30 AM till 2:30 PM and include a guide who’ll show you around and tell you more about what it’s like to be a timeless musical phenomenon.

Learn more about RCA Studio B here!

What’s special about this place?

Located in the north of downtown, Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack is where the national trend of spicing up the bird started. To get their tastebuds going, tourists from all over the country come here to savor what’s considered to be the gold standard for hot chicken.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

All spicy food enthusiasts will want to challenge themselves to several of the 6 flavors of hot chicken offered by Thorton Prince’s great-niece, Ms. Andre Prince Jeffries. But if you can’t handle spicy chicken, there’s some plain kind that tastes just as good as the more tangy one.

What to do here?

Get your friends and allocate an evening to come to Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack and see what all the hype is about. The levels of spice range from plain to XXXhot which means that you can gradually build up your spice tolerance. Or, if there’s someone in the restaurant bold enough to order some XXXhot chicken straight away, consider sticking around to find out how well they can handle it.

Best Time to Visit

Closed on Sunday only, the chicken restaurant is best to visit Monday through Thursday when it’s the least crowded. That said, if you want to feel the energy of the crowd, come in the evening on Friday or Saturday and you’re guaranteed to have fun with strangers trying to prove to each other that their spice tolerance is through the roof.

Learn more about Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack here!

What’s special about this place?

Before acquiring the reputation of a country music capital, Nashville used to put a big emphasis on higher education. This resulted in the building of the Parthenon which is the carbon copy of the Athenian building in Greece carrying the same name. And while it’s no longer a temporary exposition it was meant to be in 1897, it remains to be the cultural center that’s home to art from the classical era.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Architects and those who have an eye for design are guaranteed to find an extensive art collection from the classical period worth their time. If you’ve been to Athens before and have witnessed the original Parthenon, you might want to see Nashville’s version with your own eyes and compare the two in real life.

What to do here?

Admire the well-kept grounds in front of the building (and the illumination at night), and buy an admission ticket to navigate through the countless artworks featuring paintings, statues, sculptures, and texts from the classical era. You can also have a picnic in the green space surrounding Parthenon.

Best Time to Visit

Touring Parthenon shouldn’t take longer than half an hour but it can take more if you take the time to read notes about the art pieces located in the museum. It’s open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 AM to 4:30 PM and on Sundays from 12:30 PM to 4:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

Learn more about Parthenon Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

Belle Meade Plantation is located 8 miles southwest of the city’s downtown area and acts as a tourist attraction that used to belong to the wealthiest family in Nashville. Presidents, celebrities, and other highly regarded people have visited this Greek-revival style plantation at some point, and so can you.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

To get a glimpse of what it was like to live with money during the Civil War, take a tour of the Belle Meade Plantation. Not only will you get to see the original buildings from that time period and tour the actual mansion, but you’ll also get to learn about the lives of slaves who were responsible for a good chunk of the fortune acquired by the said family.

What to do here?

Once you’re done exploring the main mansion on the property, you’ll get the chance to check out the carriage house and the gardens too. Then, you’ll be offered to take a trip to the winery and taste some wine.

Best Time to Visit

At Belle Meade Plantation afternoons are the busiest regardless of the day of the week. If that doesn’t put you off from visiting the site during these hours, go ahead and book an afternoon tour. In other cases, consider booking an early morning or a later afternoon tour if you need more privacy.

Learn more about Belle Meade Plantation here!

What’s special about this place?

Just one minute walk from Ryman Auditorium, there’s a live music bar well known among locals for having hosted the biggest country singers in the past. Unlike other honky-tonks on Broadway that have become a bachelorette-friendly locale, this one remains to be the country music destination that brings in big crowds every day.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Everyone looking for a good time will find it at Robert’s Western World. There’s lots of live music playing up until 3 in the morning and delicious food and drinks to go with it. Currently owned by Jesse Lee Jones, the famous musician and the lead singer of Brazibilly, it’s the must-visit spot when you’re in town.

What to do here?

Grab a stool, get an order of fried bologna sandwich, and listen to the band that’s performing that night. Just remember to tip the band and the server as the tip jar is passed among the guests and you’re good to enjoy the atmosphere until it’s time to call it a day and return to your crib.

Best Time to Visit

To catch the best shows and be among busy crowds, come at around 9 PM on a Friday or a Saturday night. If, however, you’d like to listen to live country music in a calmer environment, afternoons on a weekday are best for that.

Learn more about Robert’s Western World here!

What’s special about this place?

Not too long ago The Gulch was an unsightly neighborhood that didn’t have much action going on. It was merely a pit stop you take to reach the city’s district Music Row that houses the most prominent label offices and recording studios. Nowadays, it’s filled with chic hotels and boutiques, upscale restaurants, and artsy buildings that are worth checking out.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you want to see a more upper-class side of Nashville where high-end shopping and fine dining are an everyday occurrence, make a trip to The Gulch. It has an atmosphere that’s akin to that of downtown New York City or any other metropolitan city with high-rise condos and instagrammable walls being the center of attention.

What to do here?

A 15-minute walk from the famous Bridgestone Arena, The Gulch will have you trying the most sophisticated cuisines, grooving to bluegrass and roots music, and romanticizing the trendy buildings that look like they belong to the cover of the Architectural Digest magazine. Take your time and explore the neighborhood far and wide if urban environments entice you when visiting a new city.

Best Time to Visit

If you want to stop by the Johnny Cash Museum or the Country Music Hall of Fame, check out their opening hours before driving down to The Gulch. The same applies to bars and restaurants you’d like to visit in the area. Remember that for most places, afternoons and late evenings tend to be the most crowded.

Learn more about The Gulch here!

What’s special about this place?

If you head to the Rutledge Hill neighborhood that’s a little southeast of downtown, you’ll find the trendy hangout spot called Pinewood Social. It’s where you can treat your taste buds to some exquisite dishes and play bowling (or bocce ball, or both). This all-in-one spot is a must-visit when in Nashville, especially if you’re traveling with friends.

Who’ll enjoy it here?Groups of friends and families without kids are the primary target audience for this locale. There’s never a dull moment at Pinewood Social and you might even not notice how quickly the time passes as you nimble on the treats from the local coffee shop, roll a ball down the bowling alley, and take a plunge into the outdoor swimming pool.

What to do here?Apart from grabbing dinner and chilling by the pool on the patio, you can also have a cup of coffee and get some work done at the coworking space. And, if you’re feeling like spending the whole day here, consider reserving a room to sing karaoke after a busy day of back-to-back online meetings.

Best Time to VisitIf you’re in The Gulch neighborhood, it’d be a missed opportunity to not drop by Pinewood Social. It doesn’t even have to be the time when there’s the least amount of people around — it has more than enough space for everyone to be enjoying the ambiance of this hangout spot from 7 in the morning up until 11 at night.

Learn more about Pinewood Social here!

What’s special about this place?

This antique shop distinguishes itself as a ‘not just another junk store’ and we couldn’t agree more. It lives up to its name — Cool Stuff Weird Things — as it’s filled with bits and pieces that would make great home decorations. You can also give them away to your friends as city-appropriate souvenirs that relay Nashville’s spirit as the country music capital of the world.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’re looking for a quirky relic to remind you of the time you spent in the city of Nashville, paying a visit to Cool Stuff Weird Things will help you accomplish this goal. From vintage record players to typography signs and funky lamps, there are tons of knickknacks you can purchase before you head back home.

What to do here?

Come with an open mind and you just might leave with a handful of decor pieces to hang at your place. Into wall art? The store got you covered. Looking for some furnishings for your patio? There’s enough of that too. Pick what will go well with your existing home decor and you’re almost guaranteed to end up with a one-of-a-kind ornament that’ll transform the state of your humble abode.

Best Time to Visit

Luckily, the antique store doesn’t have any days off. It opens at 10 AM and closes at 6 PM on the clock. And while the first half of the day on Saturdays and Sundays is super packed, the rest of the week it’s a lot emptier.

Learn more about Cool Stuff Weird Things here!

What’s special about this place?

Having been around since 1945, the Adventure Science Center is a non-profit science museum that continues to offer both adults and children the possibility to get acquainted with science via interactive exhibits. It helps break the stigma around science being boring with the 175 hands-on activities on the topic of biology, physics, and air and space among others that make you feel like a real-life Einstein or Newton.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

From young to old, there’s no age limit to visitors who’d enjoy spending a day at the Adventure Science Center of Nashville. The many exhibits allow you to learn more about yourself, your surroundings, and even extraterrestrial realms while also giving children the opportunity to discover their inner inventors by playing around with science-y objects.

What to do here?

See what it feels like to walk on the moon, learn how an airplane operates by getting behind the controls, use a 3D printer to create a real-life object you’ve been dying to have — there are virtually no science-related activities missing at the museum. There’s even a yoga class under the stars hosted on weekends you can sign up for if you’re in the city for longer.

Best Time to Visit

Keep in mind that the museum is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The rest of the days, it’s open from 10 in the morning till 3 in the afternoon or 6 in the evening on Saturdays. In case you’re trying to avoid crowds, visit after 12 PM.

Learn more about Adventure Science Center here!

What’s special about this place?

Situated 6 miles southeast of the city center, Nashville Zoo is home to several thousands of individual animals and a few hundred species. The almost 200 acres of land make it an expansive place for spending a full day exploring meerkats, Sumatran tigers, red pandas, and others.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

All animal lovers will find a visit to the Nashville Zoo mandatory. There’s a lot to see and even more to do — think dropping by the jungle gym and feeding some of the animals — both with kids and without.

What to do here?

Pet kangaroos, touch tortoises’ shells and get up close with animals — there isn’t much that’s off-limits. Apart from watching the wildlife, there are also camps and classes you can sign up your kids for if you need to drop them off somewhere on the weekend while exploring the less kid-friendly sites in Nashville.

Best Time to Visit

Open every day of the week, Nashville Zoo makes it to every tourist’s travel agenda (cue to big crowds). And even though the Rise & Shine with rhinos is a strictly morning experience, we’d recommend you to plan your visit to the zoo after midday. This way, you’ll be able to explore it without too many people hanging over you and local animals in their calmest state.

Learn more about Nashville Zoo here!

What’s special about this place?

This 55-acre botanical garden is a paradise away from the bustling city that accommodates well-kept greenhouses, sculpture trails, and an on-site museum boasting an impressive collection of art. No matter the season, there’s always something to see; if it’s not the 100,000 tulips at a Bloom festival in spring, then it’s a wonderland filled with trains, Christmas trees, reindeer, and Santa.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Couples, families with and without children, the elderly — you name it, they’ll all benefit from taking a walk in the Cheekwood Gardens. It’s particularly enjoyable for everyone to take a breath of fresh air among the many trees and flowers neatly planted in the gardens after spending a long day out in the noisy city.

What to do here?

Stroll through the gardens and admire the chromatic flower display, the orderly lawns that are kept in shape all year round, and the sculptures you’d otherwise get to see on the territory of a million-dollar mansion only. Keep an eye out for seasonal festivities as there are typically themed events held every now and then that showcase the best assets of the gardens.

Best Time to Visit

If you’re after the Bloom festival or the Christmas extravaganza, it’s best to come the week the event is held. If not, feel free to drop by on any day except Monday when the Cheekwood Gardens are closed after 12 PM to walk around without big masses of people right next to you.

Learn more about Cheekwood Gardens here!

What’s special about this place?

Built by the largest inland shipbuilder in the country, General Jackson Showboat was first launched on the Ohio River in Indiana state before it was docked in Cumberland River in Nashville, Tennessee. Now it serves as an entertainment-focused cruiser that offers a dining experience in tandem with theatrical performances.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Every tourist — be it an 80-year old teacher or a 10-year old kid — will find the idea of cruising around town on a ship appealing. The views of Nashville combined with good food and music make it every age-appropriate; even the youngsters will have fun playing around and sharing meals with their family.

What to do here?

Gaze at the riverside from afar when it gets dark and the city starts glowing in the dark. Watch a theatrical performance at the 2-story Victorian theatre hosting a range of shows on a daily. Fuel yourself with a hearty Southern dish before watching a comedy live show or while listening to orchestral music playing in the background.

Best Time to Visit

There are midday and evening cruises available for you to book depending on your traveling itinerary. If you’re planning on traveling to Nashville during the holiday season, General Jackson Showboat offers Christmas dinner cruises too. Check with the boat tour agency for a more detailed schedule of cruises and book in advance to secure your spot.

Learn more about General Jackson Showboat here!

What’s special about this place?

The Station Inn is somewhat of a cult phenomenon in Nashville. It opened its doors to guests in 1974 when 6 bluegrass-ers started playing tunes everyone enjoyed listening to. The live music venue was later acquired by a different owner who made sure that the locale was always booked and busy. Today, it’s a go-to spot for Bluegrass music enthusiasts.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

This iconic place is heaven on earth for country music lovers of all ages. If you manage to get a seat — the music venue operates on a first-come-first-serve basis — you’re in for a real treat. You might even want to take your phone out and record the performance to then brag about it to your friends who are just as big of Bluegrass fans as you.

What to do here?

Come in your best mood because The Station Inn is the place where you sing along and sip Pale Ale until it’s midnight and time to leave. You won’t notice how quickly time goes by — that’s how much fun you’ll have listening to the songs played by the genre’s most sought-after musicians and trying to take a mental picture of the event for memories’ sake.

Best Time to Visit

The Station Inn is open every day from 7 PM till 12 AM (except for Sundays when it opens at 3 PM). Located in the heart of The Gulch, it hosts artists every night without exceptions which makes it possible for you to pop in at any point throughout the evening. Remember that Saturdays and Sundays are the busiest whilst Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays are the least crowded.

Learn more about The Station Inn here!

What’s special about this place?

Sunbeam Bakery in the past and Lane Motor Museum in the present, this locale has a unique concept that attracts plenty of visitors every year. It displays vehicles from Europe that were donated to the museum by the owner himself ever since its opening date in 2002. All of the cars are either in working condition or are left on site to age.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Car fanatics and vintage vehicle enthusiasts are equally likely to want to spend a few hours exploring the many exhibits in the Lane Motor Museum. Being one of the biggest European collections of cars and motorcycles in Tennessee, it houses over 150 vehicles with many new ones arriving at the site every once in a while.

What to do here?

Make time in your Nashville itinerary to visit Lane Motor Museum and you’ll be tempted to come back. Read the labels next to each vehicle to get a glimpse into the lifecycle of each car and peer into garages with an ongoing restoration for the behind-the-scenes. There aren’t many places like this where you can travel back in time even if just for a split moment.

Best Time to Visit

Unlike some other sites in Nashville, Lane Motor Museum is never too busy or too empty. You can come on a Saturday afternoon and rest assured that it won’t be much more crowded than if you came at 1 PM on Thursday. So, if you happen to be in the area, consider paying a visit no matter what time of the day it is.

Learn more about Lane Motor Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

Located in downtown Nashville, City Winery is home to 300 French and American oak barrels. This 300-seat music venue offers a blend of fine dining, top-shelf wine, and country music surrounded by a rustic interior, exposed beams, and stone fireplaces. Not too bad for an upscale winery with a seemingly unexciting exterior and just a couple hundred Google reviews.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Wine connoisseurs and country music fans alike will find a visit to City Winery a must-do. The up-and-coming artists together with exquisite dishes and an intimate atmosphere make it an appealing location to spend an evening at.

What to do here?

Make a reservation and discover your new favorite artist while sipping on a 20-year old wine. You can also educate yourself on the making of wine by signing up for a tour where you’ll be tasting house-made wines and learning more about Nashville’s approach to the craft. Keep in mind that you have to be over 21 years of age to be eligible for the tour.

Best Time to Visit

As with every wine and dine location where live music is involved, Fridays and Saturdays are the busiest times of the week. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, on the other hand, are the least crowded which means that you’ll get a more intimate experience if you visit on one of these days.

Learn more about City Winery here!

What’s special about this place?

You can spot Downtown Sporting Club right in the center of Nashville where all the neon-lit honky-tonks are located. It’s got plenty of entertainment options for you to choose from including axe throwing, shuffleboard, old school video games, and several bars spread among quite a few floors. There’s also a rooftop patio oasis to chill at that most tourists go for the second they arrive at the facility.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Definitely not a kid-friendly place, Downtown Sporting Club is a tourist-oriented locale where you can rent a room, have a meal, and get entertained all at once. There’s no need to seek a restaurant or a pub to play board games and have a frozen Margarita — it’s got it all.

What to do here?

If you already have a place to stay in Nashville, you can still visit the Downtown Sporting Club lounge by the pool or watch a game on a TV with friends while chatting about your next-day travel plans. You can dabble into bowling or take a dive in the rooftop pool too.

Best Time to Visit

It’s open 7 days a week which is convenient for tourists that might be in the city just for the weekend. From Monday to Friday, you can drop by at any time between 8 AM and 1 AM, whereas on the weekends, the club opens an hour later.

What’s special about this place?

Just a 4-minute walk from Ryman Auditorium, the Bridgestone Arena is where you’ll witness your favorite singers perform live. It’s not just country stars either — Madonna and Adele were among the icons who stepped their foot on the stage and sang their hearts out for a 20,000-large audience.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Everyone who likes to be entertained will get a kick out of attending a performance at the Bridgestone Arena. Make sure to check the schedule of upcoming events so you could plan your trip to Nashville accordingly and get ready to have (and capture) the time of your life at the venue.

What to do here?

Aside from the concerts held by A-list singers, you can also get lucky enough to catch Nashville Predators of the National Hockey League playing in the arena. Or, in the best-case scenario, combine the two events and kill two birds with one stone by going to a concert one evening and watching a game the next day.

Best Time to Visit

To get a hold of the best tickets, consider dropping by the Bridgestone Arena Box Office right at 1 PM when it opens its doors. This way, you’re more likely to get the seats you want and be content with your time spent singing until you have no voice the next day and cheering on the most promising players.

Learn more about Bridgestone Arena here!

What’s special about this place?

Sightseeing on a trolley is always a great way to explore a new city, but it’s that much more exciting when you get to do it in a tour setting. Having been entertaining guests since 1980, Old Town Trolley Tours offers unlimited hop-on & hop-off all day long. All tours are executed in real-time without pre-recorded narration and the guides are highly trained and knowledgeable about the city.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Families with children, couples, young adults — you name it, there’s hardly a category of tourists that wouldn’t remember that one time they boarded a trolley to discover the best sites in Nashville. The padded seats are comfortable, the 14 stops are conveniently spaced out, and the views are just as great. There’s not much else to wish for in a guided city tour.

What to do here?

Old Town Trolley Tours have not just one but three types of tours you can choose from such as the 1-day trolley tour, trolley tour & soul of music city tour, and soul of the music city tour. The first tour passes by over 100 points of interest and the third one features musical landmarks while the second one combines the two. If you’re into music, book the second or the third tour.

Best Time to Visit

Pick the tour that speaks to you the most and make sure to arrive on time. The sightseeing tour agency is open Thursday through Monday from 9:30 AM till 4 PM which means that you can buy the tickets for the tour directly from them or get them online.

Learn more about Old Town Trolley Tours here!

What’s special about this place?

Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center isn’t your typical hotel — it’s a whole indoor city with a few thousand rooms, shops, restaurants, and entertainment activities you can engage in without having to leave the territory. There are 9 acres of gardens, breathtaking waterfalls, and even an indoor river that’s guaranteed to impress you.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

For an all-in-one destination that offers accommodation, food, and entertainment, there’s nothing that beats the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville. It’s fun to be at with kids, friends, and other families regardless of the age of the guests. You might even want to prolong your stay here — that’s how much there is to explore.

What to do here?

Drop your kids at the Soundwaves waterpark and take a boat tour, stroll through the dozens of luxury shops, book a spa session, play golf, and work up the appetite to sample every cuisine from Japanese to Mexcian and Italian. There’s even a ballroom designed for hosting banquets and other big events if that’s what you’d like to do when in Nashville.

Best Time to Visit

You can visit the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center for just a couple of hours or spend a weekend here — the choice is yours. Depending on how much time you’re planning on spending in Nashville, you might want to check in advance the type of activities the resort offers on any particular day so that you don’t end up missing out on anything.

Learn more about Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center here!

What’s special about this place?

Nested in a small strip mall just outside of downtown, Bluebird Cafe is a 90-seat live music venue that has an unremarkable exterior but unmatched energy created by talented singers and attentive crowds. It’s known for its ‘Shhh Policy’ that allows songwriters and the audience to focus on the songs instead of making noise by being loud.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

You can’t go wrong with visiting Bluebird Cafe for an intimate atmosphere that involves good music and delicious beer. Having gained worldwide recognition as the place where ‘heroes behind the hits’ perform their own singles, it’s the go-to destination for music lovers who don’t mind listening to rock, country, and pop genres all in one evening.

What to do here?

Drop by to listen to the up-and-coming and seasoned music artists sing tunes you’ll be humming a long time after you leave Nashville. Every nightly performance typically includes 2 shows and 3 to 4 songwriters taking turns to share their songs and the story behind them with the audience.

Best Time to Visit

The venue is open 7 days a week with The Round shows scheduled Tuesday through Saturday, audition-only Sunday Writers Nights held on Sundays at 8 PM, and Open Mic hosted on Mondays at 6 PM. Check Bluebird Cafe’s social media for an up-to-date schedule of their performances.

Learn more about Bluebird Cafe here!

What’s special about this place?

Located on Opry Mills, Madame Tussauds is a classic that’s hard to pass when you’re visiting a country capital of the world like Nashville. It’s where you’re able to snap a selfie with your idol, kick back with Country Royalty, and even attempt to record your own single. Don’t miss a chance to check out what this tourist attraction has to offer, especially if you’ve never been to a Madame Tussauds museum before.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Celebrities’ admirers and curios tourists alike will likely enjoy hanging out at Madame Tussauds for an hour or two. There’s a lot to see and even more to do if you happen to get bored easily; the recording booth, soul/jazz & blues bar, and bluebird cafe are just some of the add-ons you’ll find tucked inside the museum.

What to do here?

See the wax replicas of your favorite role models and don’t be shy to approach them to take a picture — they won’t say no. It’s not just country music stars present in the museum either, Elvis Presley and Taylor Swift make an appearance too. Once you’re done with selfies, you can chill at the local cafe and even try your luck at the recording studio.

Best Time to Visit

To avoid crowds, come to Madame Tussauds on a weekday. It doesn’t even have to be any specific time — it never gets too busy during the working week. Saturdays, however, are the most crowded no matter if you arrive at 11 in the morning or 3 in the afternoon.

Learn more about Madame Tussauds here!

What’s special about this place?

Nested in Davidson County, Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage Museum is a 1,000+ acre mansion that used to belong to Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the United States. Today, this landmark features 30 historic buildings and plantations that served as cotton fields where enslaved people worked day and night.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Those interested in learning more about the complicated history of Andrew Jackson’s presidency will see this museum as an opportunity to do so. The tours hosted in the museum will give you a good idea about what life was like in the early 1800s as it’s considered to be one of the best-preserved presidents’ homes in the country.

What to do here?

Pick a tour that fits your travel itinerary the best — there are regular and seasonal tours available — and get ready to dive deep into the history of The Hermitage. You can also access digital resources available on the official website that will provide you with the less-known facts about Jackson’s presidency and the reasoning for the facility’s team members choosing to work at the museum.

Best Time to Visit

Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage Museum is open to guests the rest of the week. The number of guests on any given day is somewhat the same, which allows you to visit on any day of the week. Time-wise, it’s best to come before or after 12 PM to skip the long lines.

Learn more about Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

A concert and dance venue, a TV studio, a catering bar, and a restaurant all in one, Wildhorse Saloon is a 66,000-square foot facility that stretches for 3 floors. It has a capacity of 2,400 people with the capability of extending out to the Riverfront Park in the backyard to comfortably accommodate every single one of the 1.5 million music lovers and catering groups every year.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Party animals and Southern food connoisseurs are guaranteed to enjoy spending an evening here on their visit to Nashville. There’s something for everyone, including music concerts, dancing lessons, and exquisite meals that had previously received awards. According to the Wildhorse Saloon, ‘you haven’t experienced Nashville until you’ve been here’.

What to do here?

Bring your friends and family to share the fun you’ll have at the world-famous restaurant and live music venue located in downtown Nashville. You might get lucky to see your favorite artist performing live or discover a hidden gem you’ll be listening to nonstop after you visit the Wildhorse Saloon.

P.S. Don’t shy away from trying out their signature hot chicken, fried pickles.

Best Time to Visit

Expect Fridays and Saturdays to be the most crowded days of the week. The crowds grow bigger as the evening progresses, so keep this in mind when dropping by after 7 PM. Check the venue’s social media channels for the latest updates regarding the working hours to be on the safe side.

Learn more about Wildhorse Saloon here!

What’s special about this place?

Everyone’s familiar with the Korean BBQ restaurants where you’re the one cooking your own meals. Now, imagine the same concept but with pancakes. At Pfunky Griddle, guests cook their own pancakes and pick toppings that go on them too. No preparing the cake batter — the team at the restaurant does all the prep and clean-up so that you can focus on the fun stuff.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Families with children are the primary audience for Pfunky Griddle. The pancake-making proves to be entertaining for the kids as they get to decide what toppings go on the pancakes they’ve just cooked. The adults, in their turn, can enjoy fun-flavored coffees offered by the restaurant.

What to do here?

Plan your visit to Pfunky Griddle if you’re staying in Nashville on the weekend and be prepared to spend a good few hours here. Your kids will be so immersed in the process of making their own pancakes, dripping them in syrup, and topping them with M&Ms and sprinkles that you might even have to drag them outside when it’s time to leave.

Best Time to Visit

This breakfast place is open from 8 AM to 2 PM during the week and from 7 AM to 2 PM on the weekend. It tends to get busy on Saturdays and Sundays, so get there early if you don’t want to make your kids wait. But if you happen to be stuck in the queue, there’s a playground down the street to keep them occupied.

Learn more about Pfunky Griddle here!

What’s special about this place?

There’s not much the people of Nashville love more than rooting for their Tennessee Titans football team. The 70,000-seat Nissan Stadium is the perfect place for that; it’s where the team plays all of the games hosted in the city. Not only do they compete in the NFL but they also have a proud history of participating in the playoffs 21 times.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Football fans and Tennessee Titans supporters are welcome to buy their tickets and watch a game when in Nashville. The atmosphere at the stadium when everyone’s collectively cheering on their favorite team makes it a must-go activity you can’t miss if you’re a sports enthusiast yourself.

What to do here?

Check Nissan Stadium’s website for event announcements before you’re in Nashville and book your seat in advance. Once you’re there, buy some Pepperfire hot chicken tenders to fuel you while you’re cheering on Tennessee Titans and enjoy the game. There’s also a CMA festival held in June where you can partake in the music extravaganza.

Best Time to Visit

There are events hosted both in the afternoon and in the evening. To catch a game, you should check when it’s taking place in advance and book your ticket before they’re all sold out. Be sure to arrive ahead of time to not miss the start of the game.

Learn more about Nissan Stadium here!

What’s special about this place?

A Kroger grocery store in the past, Plaza Mariachi is a buzzing tourist and entertainment center that offers live music performances, dancing classes, and delicious food options too. Different from your typical Nashville music venue, this destination features DJ shows with silk dancers, Latinx stars you’ve probably heard of, and even kids’ shows.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

There’s never a dull moment at Plaza Mariachi which makes it an appealing spot for virtually everyone. Whether you’re a fan of live music and dancing performances or would like to learn some new dancing moves, this venue has got you covered. There are even some shopping sites you can stop by to purchase some handmade jewelry or a South American-inspired dress for a Quinceneara.

What to do here?

Drink freshly-roasted coffee at the Trinity Cafe, watch the World Cup on the 17’ LED screen, and savor authentic Mexican, Mediterranean, or other cuisines at the local food spots. Go Salsa dancing on Thursday and get your brows done at Pretty Brows while your kids get entertained at Tito’s Playland Arcade. Don’t forget to order a Michelada from the Z-Bar.

Best Time to Visit

Plaza Mariachi is open every day of the week except Mondays. If you’re planning on coming on the weekend, keep in mind that it might be crowded. During the working week, however, you won’t see too many people hanging around the center which will give you enough time and space to explore the locale without any queues.

Learn more about Plaza Mariachi here!

What’s special about this place?

Built between 1849 and 1853, Belmont Mansion is an Italian-style villa that used to belong to one of the wealthiest women in the country at the time, Adelicia Acklen. Originally designed to serve as a summer home, it was then commissioned to feature a zoo, an art gallery, and a few greenhouses. Today, it’s a popular site for tourists to stroll through when it Nashville.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Interior design specialists and those who appreciate aesthetically pleasing buildings are equally likely to enjoy hanging out at the Belmont Mansion for an hour or two. This 19,000-square foot site has rooms that are decorated in the 19-century style featuring antiques and opulent art that makes you go ‘wow’ every few seconds.

What to do here?

Furnished with Roman sculptures among other lavish-looking decorations, Belmont Mansion is the place to visit if you’re curious to learn more about the luxurious lifestyle of the family that lived there. Book a tour and get ready to dive deep into the history of the site with the narration from the local guides.

Best Time to Visit

Depending on the time of the tour you book, the time of the visit will vary. If you want to avoid crowds, consider reserving your spot on Sunday when it’s not busy or on Saturday when it’s just a little busier. On Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, there are many more guests who visit the site.

Learn more about Belmont Mansion here!

What’s special about this place?

Constructed in 1779 to protect the people of Nashville from the Indian attacks and the attacks of wild animals, Fort Nashborough is now a historical site that sees many guests. It was reconstructed two centuries later in the 1930s using telegraph poles to tell a story about the origins of the city in the most accurate way possible.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’re someone who’s fascinated with the history of cities, you’ll want to visit Fort Nashborough on your visit to Nashville. Today’s replica of the original settlement that used to serve local people remains to be an authentic representation of the lifestyle frontier pioneers had three centuries ago.

What to do here?

Book a self-guided tour that takes place on a daily and get to see what the original stockade looked like in Nashville in the 1700s. Located in the Riverfront Park in the downtown of the city, Fort Nashborough is a real gem you don’t want to miss if history or anthropology was your favorite subject in school.

Best Time to Visit

Self-guided tours are held every day of the week from 9 in the morning until 4 in the afternoon. You’ll spend about an hour and a half to two hours exploring the historical site so plan your trip here accordingly. As always, Saturdays and Sundays are the busiest days.

Learn more about Fort Nashborough here!

What’s special about this place?

For a taste of authentic Southern food that comes in big portions, tourists go to Loveless Cafe. Set on the outskirts of Nashville, this restaurant continues serving home-cooked-style dishes for over 50 years now. Some of the local delicacies that bring everyone to the yard include red-eye gravy and biscuits with homemade preserves.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

It’s not just tourists that tend to drop by, locals are frequent customers at Loveless Cafe too. This is because apart from the typical Southern meals, there are also all-day breakfasts and sandwich plates you can choose from. The point is, you’ll feel full after your visit here.

What to do here?

Check out the menu beforehand and come with a clear idea of what you’d like to try out. Breakfast plates consist of country ham, eggs, and sausages among other things, and ‘sides, sips, and sweets’ that include homemade side dishes, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and homemade desserts.

Best Time to Visit

Lunchtime on Saturdays and Sundays is the busiest time at the Loveless Cafe. So, if you want to get a table right away and not wait in line, consider coming after 3 PM. The rest of the days are not as crowded.

Learn more about Loveless Cafe here!

What’s special about this place?

A quick 3-minute walk from Ryman Auditorium, Ole Red is where you can have fried chicken and listen to live music all while comfortably sitting in the chair on the rooftop and taking in the views. Opened by the country music legend Blake Shelton, it’s as entertaining as it is aesthetically pleasing.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Country music fans and those who don’t mind enjoying some ‘Redneck’ nachos with Ole Red Prosecco while humming to their favorite tunes are all welcome to stop by the Ole Red restaurant. This 26,000-square-foot entertainment venue will conveniently accommodate you and your friends and provide you with a VIP booth if it’s something you’d be interested in.

What to do here?

Get up close and personal with the hottest country stars performing here every night of the week. Choose the beverage to drink, order a side of house-made tots, and enjoy the views of Lower Broadway and Music City. See who’s playing live and come visit when you’re in Nashville.

Best Time to Visit

The venue is open every day of the week from 11 AM till 12/2 AM. It’s the busiest around 9 PM on Fridays and Saturdays which also means that there’s a bigger likelihood of prominent country artists performing on the stage. If, however, you’re only looking for a laid-back atmosphere with breathtaking views, the rest of the week will do just fine.

Learn more about Ole Red here!

What’s special about this place?

Printer’s Alley hasn’t always been this popular. Rumors have it that it’s the dark past of the alley where locals were smuggling in liquor in the Prohibition era that helped it transform into the number one nightlife area. Today, you’ll find plenty of karaoke joints, bars, and live music venues located here for your entertainment.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Party animals and serene music enthusiasts will equally enjoy taking a stroll through the Printer’s Alley a lot. You might need to leave your kids at the hotel or Airbnb you’ve rented if you visit Nashville with your family, but it’s worth doing so for a night filled with fun and a few alcoholic co*cktails.

What to do here?

There are plenty of places to drop by when exploring Printer’s Alley. You can shop at AllSaints, admire art at The Studio 208, dine at Bourbon Street Blues & Boogie Bar, and sing your heart out at Ms. Kelli’s Karaoke Bar all in one night. There’s also the famed Cumberland River nearby to walk along and take in the views of the city.

Best Time to Visit

The majority of the places on Printer’s Alley open later in the afternoon and close early in the morning. Take notes of the bars and music venues you’d like to visit and plan your night accordingly. If you happen to miss a pub you were dying to visit because it was too full, add it to your must-visit list for when you’re back in the city.

What’s special about this place?

To learn more about the Man in Black, visit the Johnny Cash Museum. Dedicated to the legendary figure that gave life to blues, country, and rock&roll music, this museum is a true homage to the man whose songs are still being played on the radio. There’s everything you’d ever need to see to feel the presence of Johnny Cash including handwritten notes, films, and over 25 costumes belonging to the celebrity.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Needless to say, if you’re a country music fan, you’re likely a fan of Johnny Cash too. In this case, it’d be a missed opportunity to make a trip to Nashville and forget to swing by the Johnny Cash Museum. The different exhibits present at the museum highlight different periods of Cash’s life that take you back in time to when the star served in the Air Force and married June Carter.

What to do here?

Listen to the retrospective of music created by Johnny Cash via the memorabilia in the form of musical instruments, costumes, photos, and handwritten lyrics displayed at the museum. Check out his high school yearbook and even his marriage certificate present within the walls of the museum too. Then, pop in the Johnny Cash’s Kitchen & Saloon next door where you can sip some whiskey and listen to the country music hits.

Best Time to Visit

Located in the heart of Nashville — it’s only a 4-minute walk from the Ryman Auditorium — Johnny Cash Museum tends to get crowded quickly. Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays are the busiest days of the week while Tuesdays are the emptiest. To avoid the crowds, come in the second half of the day when everyone is already leaving the premises.

Learn more about Johnny Cash Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

While Tennessee is full of parks, Long Hunters State Park is one of the very few that pay tribute to Native Americans working on the land before the settlement of Europeans. It covers 2,600 acres of land with its four sections — Couchville, Baker’s Grove, Bryant Grove, and Sellars Farm — all of which offer a variety of activities to immerse yourself into on any given sunny day.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you want to get away from the noisy city for half a day, consider leaving it for Long Hunters State Park. There are over 20 miles of hiking trails available for you to stroll along and even workshops and lectures aimed at educating you about the Native American inhabitants of the park.

What to do here?

Go hiking, swimming, fishing, boating, camping, biking — you name it, you’re likely to be able to do it in the Long Hunters State Park. Bring your family or friends and plan a picnic in nature that’ll be the breath of fresh air you’ll need after exploring the always hustling and bustling city of Nashville.

Best Time to Visit

During peak season, Long Hunters State Park is open from 7 AM till 7 PM every day of the week with no exceptions. Saturday is the busiest day to visit the park whereas Monday and Wednesday are the least crowded. Keep in mind that the Visitor Center is closed on the weekends in the winter.

Learn more about Long Hunters State Park here!

What’s special about this place?

Don’t be alarmed by the blocky building this restaurant is housed in — it gives Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant a homey feel. Here, you can both stock up on groceries and dine depending on what you’re after. And if you decide to stay and order something Southern, you’ll get to enjoy a live performance too.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Those looking for a place to visit on a Friday evening should add Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant to their Nashville ‘to-visit’ list. There’s something for everyone including barbecue platters, a cozy atmosphere, and music shows. If there’s just one Southern cuisine restaurant you’re planning on visiting in the city, this should be it.

What to do here?

Come for an order of the restaurant’s famed slow-smoked BBQ and biscuits and stay for the live music acts. The laid-back and down-home atmosphere present at Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant will make you want to tell your friends about it. On your way out, don’t forget to grab some essentials from the grocery store.

Best Time to Visit

Aside from the restaurant working 7 days a week with no days off, there’s also Happy Hour you can catch Monday through Friday from 3 till 6 PM. As expected, Fridays and Saturdays are the busiest days here while Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays are the least crowded.

Learn more about Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant here!

What’s special about this place?

Having started with teambuilding programs and adventures in 1987, Adventureworks has grown to become the number one spot for offering adrenaline-inducing adventures for everyone. The nine ziplines available at Fontanel are among them. They stretch 85 feet high and 700 feet long all while spreading across over 1.5 million of greenery.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Adults, kids, and everyone in between are likely to have fun ziplining across many acres of greenery. Located just 15 minutes away from downtown Nashville, it’s a destination worth visiting if you’re looking to release some dopamine and make memories for a lifetime.

What to do here?

Get your support system in the form of friends or family members and be prepared to conquer your fear of heights here at Adventureworks Zipline Forest. Have them cheer on you while you’re being tied up with ropes for secure ziplining and don’t forget to ask for them to take pictures of you too.

Best Time to Visit

It’s open every day of the week which is great news for those who’re in town for just a few days. If you have a choice, consider coming on a weekday (except for Friday) when it’s not as busy. Saturdays at Adventureworks Zipline Forest tend to be the most crowded.

Learn more about Adventureworks Zipline Forest here!

What’s special about this place?

Music City Rollin’ Jamboree Bus is a unique concept that lets you explore Nashville without leaving the vehicle. It makes learning about a new place fun and exciting which is why over 50,000 guests have already hopped aboard. Expect to sing along to some country classics and laugh with strangers when on the ride.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

If you’re someone who doesn’t like irreverent comedy, attention, and good music, you won’t enjoy taking this ride. If, however, you don’t mind cutting loose from time to time, laughing from your belly, and singing your heart out with people you’ve just met, buy your ticket ASAP.

What to do here?

This adult-only ride is guaranteed to leave you feeling great about learning more about the city while also having fun along the way. Book your ticket, hop on the bus, and be open to experience the Music City in the most memorable way possible. You’ll get to see some sites including Music Row and Antique Archaeology too.

Best Time to Visit

Whether you decide to hop on the bus by yourself or in a group of 6, Music City Rollin’ Jamboree Bus can accommodate it. Stand-by seating operates on a first-come-first-serve basis, so keep this in mind when deciding to join the crowd. To get on the list, call the bus tour agency on the day of the tour.

Learn more about Music City Rollin’ Jamboree Bus here!

What’s special about this place?

Opened fairly recently, the National Museum of African-American Music is a go-to place for diving deep into the history and evolution of African American music over the decades. Here, you can educate yourself on the influence of jazz, hip-hop, gospel, popular music, and dozens of more musical genres via 1,400 artifacts acting as exhibits.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Everyone interested in finding out more about the origins of African American music will see this museum as a jackpot. It has a modern feel to it which makes it a visually pleasing location to visit and stroll through for a couple of hours when you’re in Nashville.

What to do here?

Explore the many galleries focusing on specific time periods when African American music was changing. This includes the ‘Crossroads’ gallery and songs sung by those who were enslaved in the 19th century, ‘One Nation Under a Groove’ and the emergence of R&B in the 1940s, and ‘The Message’ with its exhibits showcasing rap, hip-hop, and other genres that are still growing and maturing to this day.

Best Time to Visit

Closed on Tuesday, the National Museum of African-American Music is open to the public Wednesday through Monday from 9 in the morning until 5 (7 on Thursdays) in the evening. On the weekend, the museum is at its busiest whereas the weekdays are relatively empty.

Learn more about National Museum of African-American Music here!

What’s special about this place?

Founded by Ben ‘Cooter’ Jones, this museum is a goldmine for those who’re obsessed with The Dukes of Hazzard. You can now relive the iconic series by dropping by the museum dedicated to them and spend an hour exploring the many relics used on the set.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Fans of the show will be thrilled to see all the memorabilia from The Dukes of Hazzard under one roof. You might even come in contact with Ben Jones, the owner and the guy who played Duke Boy’s sidekick at the museum if you’re lucky enough. If not, there are still tons of exhibits you can check out to travel back in time.

What to do here?

Everything you’d expect to see in a television show-based museum is here. From costumes and props to pictures and other relics, you’ll get to see it all and then some more. The iconic cars are displayed too — Rosco’s Patrol Car, Daisy’s Jeep, Cooter’s Tow Truck, and Dodge Charger belonging to General Lee.

Best Time to Visit

Cooter’s Museum operates Sunday through Thursday from 9 AM to 6 PM and Friday through Saturday from 9 AM to 7 PM. If your goal is to check out the exhibits without too many people walking next to you, avoid Saturdays and Sundays.

Learn more about Cooter’s Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

Nashville isn’t all about country music — Schermerhorn Symphony Center is the proof. Elevating above downtown Nashville, it stands out with its clerestory window and white columns that draw in many visitors. Mostly known for its string orchestras and violin concerts, it’s been hosting performances since 2006.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

You don’t have to be into classical music to want to visit Schermerhorn Symphony Center to listen to the well-orchestrated motives that will become cemented in your head. It can serve as a black-tie opera event or just as a cool, upscale destination to spend an evening at on your visit to Nashville.

What to do here?

Get your tickets for the show that appeals to you the most and get ready to get cultured for a few hours. Among the events happening at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center, you’ll find jazz shows and Disney musicals to be some of the most popular ones. Don’t forget to check out the intricately designed interior that features symbolic imagery of the state of Tennessee.

Best Time to Visit

Just a 3-minute walk from the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Schermerhorn Symphony Center operates from Monday to Friday. Out of the five days that it’s open, Thursdays and Fridays tend to be the busiest. Mondays, on the other hand, are the least crowded.

Learn more about Schermerhorn Symphony Center here!