Nashville is the new hotspot for travelers. It’s got a great music scene, amazing food, and an abundance of history. Known as “Music City,” Nashville has a unique Southern charm that makes it a must-see destination.
Read this post to discover why Nashville is an amazing place to visit.
Stay in the Best Areas
To start your Nashville vacation off right, you’ll need to find the best place to stay. Consider one of these areas that are perfect for tourists:
- Downtown Nashville: Home to some of the city’s best attractions, you’ll stay in the center of the action, and in walking distance of the vibrant scene on Lower Broadway.
- East Nashville: This trendy neighborhood is known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and bars. It’s just a short drive or Uber ride from downtown.
- The Gulch: This is another hip neighborhood filled with upscale shops and restaurants. It’s also home to the iconic “What Lifts You” mural.
- 12 South: Tree-lined streets decorate this quiet neighborhood. Stay in a charming bungalow and experience the laid-back side of Nashville.
- Music Row: This is the epicenter of Nashville’s music industry. It’s home to recording studios, record labels, and music-themed attractions.
Learn the History of Country Music
The Johnny Cash Museum is a must-visit for any country music fan. It features artifacts from his life, including the guitar he played on stage! The collection includes costumes and memorabilia from his wife, June Carter Cash. You can check out exhibits about other famous country musicians like Patsy Cline or Hank Williams Sr. The latter inspired Johnny to start writing songs when he was just 14 years old.
The Grand Ole Opry is another quintessential spot in Nashville–the weekly radio show has been broadcasting since 1925! If you’re lucky enough to attend one of their performances, you’ll see some of today’s most popular country artists live on stage!
The Patsy Cline Museum has items that were owned by this legendary singer-songwriter. Use interactive exhibits to make up your own song lyrics using Patsy Cline’s typewriter keyboard. Just like her!
Finally, there’s The Country Music Hall of Fame And Museum which showcases exhibits on everything country music; from early pioneers, through modern superstars like Carrie Underwood.
Take a Walking Tour of the City’s Historical Sites
Walking tours are one of the best ways to see Nashville, so bring comfortable shoes! You can explore the city on foot while learning about its history and architecture.
There are several companies that offer walking tours around the city, such as Nashville Walking Tours and Walkin’ Nashville. Or you can do it on your own by downloading the free app from Visit Music City to find out everything you want to know.
Listen to Live Music
No trip to Nashville is complete without live music! The city has a thriving country music scene, but you’ll also hear rock, blues, jazz, and more.
You’ll find the best music venues down the Honky Tonk Highway (Lower Broadway):
- Layer Cake: An upscale lounge and restaurant with unique experiences on each floor.
- Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge: An old school bar with live music and rooftop views.
- Robert’s Western World: A glimpse of what Nashville used to be.
If Lower Broadway isn’t your vibe, check out these local live music favorites:
- Station Inn: Listen to bluegrass and country music seven nights a week.
- Dee’s Country Cocktail Lounge: A refined dive bar with great cocktails and retro vibes.
- The 5 Spot: An intimate space with live music every night and food trucks out back.
See a Game or Concert at Bridgestone Arena
Bridgestone Arena is home to the local hockey team, the Nashville Predators. But it’s also a great place to see concerts and other events.
Interested in catching a game or show? Check out the event schedule!
Eat at Unique Restaurants
If you’re a foodie, Nashville will not disappoint. The city has a wide range of dining options, from traditional Southern cuisine to international flavors. Hot chicken is a local specialty that you won’t want to miss, and there are plenty of great BBQ joints, too.
This list has a few restaurants with experiences you won’t soon forget:
- GreenHouse Bar: Eat and drink inside an actual greenhouse.
- The Grilled Cheeserie: Enjoy a decadent grilled cheese sandwich at the milkshake bar.
- Aquarium Restaurant: Go on an underwater dining adventure.
If you want something sweet after dinner, check out these Nashville dessert spots:
- The Cupcake Collection: “Homemade” cakes and cupcakes with gluten free and vegan options.
- Baked on 8th: Get unique cookies and cakes to-go.
- Mattheessen’s: Your one-stop-shop for cookies and fudge.
Spend an Afternoon at One of the Many Parks in Town
Nashville is home to a myriad of green spaces. If the weather is nice, these parks will become your favorite part of the city:
- Centennial Park: This is one of the largest parks in Nashville and has plenty to do. Go for a run on the jogging trail, play some tennis, or just sit back and relax at one of its many picnic areas. While you’re there, don’t forget to visit the Parthenon. You’ll find a 42-foot-tall statue of Athena inside!
- Radnor Lake State Natural Area: You’ll find great views here as well as hiking trails that wind through it all–perfect if you want something quiet but still active! You can also rent canoes if you’d like to explore the waterways.
- Warner Parks: You’ll find great views here as well as hiking trails that wind through it all–perfect if you want something quiet but still active! You can also rent canoes if you’d like to explore the waterways.
- Fannie Mae Dees Park: Also known as Dragon Park due to the giant mosaic dragon that winds through the grounds. This is the perfect park for kids, complete with an exceptional playground.
Explore the Surrounding History
Nashville is home to tons of American history. From Civil War battlefields to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, there’s no shortage of sites to visit. You can even check out Elvis’ first home in East Nashville, or visit Fort Negley, which was built during the 1860s.
These are just a few historic sites recommended for Nashville newcomers:
- Hermitage: Andrew Jackson’s Former Home: Tour the mansion and take a horse-drawn wagon ride through the grounds.
- Belle Meade Winery and Plantation: This winery doubles as a historic site of typical plantations before the 1860s.
- Cheekwood: This gorgeous estate was built with part of the Maxwell House Coffee fortune.
Nashville is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re a music lover, a foodie, or just looking for a fun and unique vacation spot, Nashville is worth a visit this year.
Find low fares and travel deals through Allegiant on your next trip to Nashville.
Do you have any Nashville recommendations we missed? Let us know in the comments below!
