The city of Nashville, Tennessee thrums to a rhythm all its own. Whether a music enthusiast, history buff, or foodie, Nashville has something for everyone. Here are the best things to do in the Music City.
See a Show or Take a Backstage Tour at Grand Ole Opry
No visit to Nashville is complete without an immersion in the rich history and captivating performances at the Grand Ole Opry. Legends like Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton have graced its hallowed halls, and now, visitors can partake in backstage tours.
Splurge on a Pair of Boots That Are Made for Walking––and Dancing
Embrace your inner cowboy or cowgirl with a shopping spree for authentic boots. From the timeless craftsmanship French’s to the eclectic styles at Boot Barn, Nashville boasts an array of stores where you can find the perfect pair to strut your stuff in Southern style.
Explore Printer’s Alley
Make Bobby Hotel or Noelle Nashville your home base and you’ll have unfettered access to this historic district brimming with legendary bars, speakeasies, and live music venues. Enjoy dinner and a live jazz show at Skull’s Rainbow Room, or dine on English fare while watching a soccer match at Fleet Street Pub. Be sure to dedicate an entire evening to just barhopping.
Experience a Honky Tonk
Dive into the heart of Nashville’s nightlife scene with a visit to a honky-tonk bar. Whether you opt for the neon lights of Broadway or one of the more local venues like Nashville Palace, soak up the sounds of live country music and dance the night away in true Tennessee fashion.
Discover the Stomping Grounds of Nashville’s Creative Class in East Nashville
Venture across the Cumberland River to East Nashville, a vibrant neighborhood bursting with artistic flair and eclectic charm. Explore quirky boutiques and vintage shops like Black Shag, grab a beer at Living Waters Brewing, or shop for coveted presses of old and new records at Grimey’s.
Grab a Drink at White Limozeen, the Dolly Parton-Themed Rooftop Bar
Raise a glass to the Queen of Country at White Limozeen, the kitschy, pink bar ideal for a girls’ night out atop the Graduate Hotel. Sip fruity and bubbly craft cocktails, or do a round of Jello Shots adorned with edible glitter as you take in panoramic views of the Nashville skyline at this whimsical homage to one of music’s greatest icons.
Amble Around Nashville’s Most Walkable Neighborhood, 12South
Located on a half-mile stretch of 12th Avenue and surely Nashville’s most walkable neighborhood, 12South is a great place to spend an afternoon. Start by finding one-of-a-kind gifts to bring home to loved ones at Serendipity 12th, then pop into imogene + willie to find the perfect pair of jeans. Grab a coffee from Frothy Monkey, then continue uptown until you make it to Locust for a gourmet lunch, or Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams for inventive scoops.
Do a Celebrity Bar Crawl
Some of the best places to find a little Southern hospitality happen to be bars and clubs run by Nashville’s celebrity residents. At the heart of Broadway stands Luke’s 32 Bridge, Luke Bryan’s 30,000-square-foot venue housing six floors, eight bars, three stages, and two restaurants. Kid Rock’s Big Honky Tonk and Rock ‘n’ Roll Steakhouse boasts five floors, four stages, six bars, and a rooftop bar, and can hold up to 2,000 people. For a more intimate evening, head to Casa Rosa by Miranda Lambert, Broadway’s first female artist bar and Tex-Mex cantina, or even Justin Timberlake’s spot, The Twelve Thirty Club.
Catch a Concert or Sports Game at Bridgestone Arena
Experience thrilling live entertainment at Bridgestone Arena, Nashville’s premier venue for concerts, sporting events, and blockbuster performances. Whether cheering on the Predators on the ice or rocking out to your favorite country band, this state-of-the-art arena promises an unforgettable evening for music and sports fans.
Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame
Delve into the history of country music at the Country Music Hall of Fame, where interactive exhibits and iconic artifacts celebrate music legends. Learn more about the genre and its trailblazers like Hank Williams or discover modern acts such as Taylor Swift and Kasey Musgraves.
