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15 Best Things To Do In Downtown Nashville

When you’re in search of a foot-stomping good time, there’s only one place to go, and that’s Downtown Nashville. While Nashville is Music City and the undisputed home of country music, Downtown is where the action is happening night and day.

In Downtown Nashville, you’ll find more musicians aspiring to fame and fortune per square mile than in any other suburb of the United States plus quite a few performers who have already made it. There are museums dedicated to music, live music venues, concert halls and streets lined with bars all with, yes, you guessed it – live music.That’s what makes it such a fantastic place to be.

Downtown is the liveliest entertainment quarter you’ll find, not just in Nashville, but in the whole of Tennessee. But there’s more to Downtown Nashville than the twanging of guitar strings, so don’t miss out on any of these fifteen amazing things to do while you’re there. You might even spot an odd musical spook or two if you’re lucky.

1. Segway Tour

There’s a lot to see in Downtown Nashville and if you don’t feel like walking the streets in case your new cowboy boots give you blisters, take a Segway Tour.

After a short tuition session, put your helmet on, mount up, and you’re ready to ride. The five-mile-long trip takes you around Downtown Nashville and past all the main sights and attractions. You’ll see the iconic Tennessee State Capitol building, the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Farmer’s Market to name just a few.

A Segway Tour is a great way of getting to know Downtown Nashville and finding out where everything is without doing any legwork.

Book online : Nashville: Music City Snapshot Segway Tour

2. Frist Art Museum

Music may be Downtown Nashville’s first love, but at the Frist Art Museum, it’s contemporary visual arts which take pride of place. The museum is in the city’s old main post office which is an historic, art deco-style building of gleaming white marble which dates back to the 1930’s.

The museum doesn’t house permanent collections and the exhibitions change every four to six weeks. The twenty-four thousand feet of gallery space have to date displayed everything from photographic impressions of the Civil Rights movement to black, and white images depicting Afro American Life in Louisiana as well as holding Paris themed entertainment evenings.

If you visit the Frist Art Museum expect diversity – it doesn’t disappoint.

3. Nashville Farmers Market

At the open-air Farmers Market on Rosa L Parks Boulevard in DT Nashville, you’ll not only find fresh local produce but meet the farmers who grow it. Browse around the one hundred and fifty plus different stands, and you’ll be amazed by the huge variety of foodstuffs. There’s everything from vegetables to bread, artisan cheeses, handicrafts and much, much, more.

Top quality ingredients make great tasting food. The Farmer’s Market has a restaurant section, the Market House, where you’ll find twenty restaurants serving an incredible array of international dishes. There are daily pop-ups, an innovative Grow Local Kitchen where budding food entrepreneurs present their products and, if you want to get hands-on, culinary workshops and classes with top chefs.

The 3rd Friday of every month there’s a Night Market complete with live music and DJ’s.

Related tour : Rural American Farm Tour

4. Pub Crawl

There are so many drinking holes in DT Nashville you won’t know which to choose. Walk down the infamous Honky Tonk Highway, Lower Broadway or 2nd Avenue, and you’ll find there are over forty bars in a couple of blocks – all with live bands every night.

Go on a hosted bar tour, and you’ll soon discover the best of them along with hearing anecdotes about Downtown’s history. The pub crawls generally last for around two and a half hours during which you’ll visit four or five bars with special drinks at each watering hole to keep you in the party mood.

The are no cover charges in any of Downtown’s bars. If the music gets your feet tapping, don’t forget to throw a few dollars in the group’s tip bucket. It’ll be appreciated.

Suggested tour : Nashville: The Ville All-Inclusive Pub Crawl

5. Bicentennial Capitol State Park

The Bicentennial Capitol State Park is a sprawling nineteen acres of green in the middle of Downtown Nashville. It’s a great place for a stroll and is full of impressive monuments.

There’s a two-thousand seat amphitheater for outdoor events, a plaza with maps of Tennessee depicting details and history of the state plus thirty-one fountains representing Tennessee waterways.

There’s no escaping music while you’re in the park. There are fifty towers containing ninety-five carillon bells around the Court of Three Stars. They play a short, tinkling version of the Tennessee waltz every fifteen minutes and a full rendition on the hour. You can set your watch by it.

6. Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum

If something’s got anything to do with country music, you’re likely to find an example of it at the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum. The buildings entire three hundred and fifty thousand square feet of space are dedicated to country music.

Unusual artifacts, cars of the stars, costumes, and a permanent exhibition outlining the history of country from its roots to the present day are on display. There are rare vocal recordings, films to watch and listen to, photos and interactive media which educate visitors on the genre.

The museum also hosts live events featuring popular artists as well as live streaming interviews and workshops.

Book ticket : Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

7. Peg Leg Porker BBQ

It takes serious nourishment to keep up your energy levels when you’re hitting the hoedowns every night. Follow the Tennessee tradition and grab a sustaining barbecue.

The Peg Leg Porker BBQ restaurant, which is in the Gulch area of Downtown Nashville, has starred in more TV shows than your average actor and won more awards than they can fit on a wall.

The restaurant has homely décor inside and an outside patio where the grilling action takes place. Get a full rack of ribs, wet or dry Memphis-style, or nachos with pulled pork. Add some coleslaw or smoked barbecue beans, and you’ll be ready for another night of DT Nashville action. Believe it, the food at Peg Leg Porker – is smoking!

8. Nashville Ghost Tours

Every city has its spooks. Find out who’s who in the spirit world of Downtown Nashville on a ghost tour. Meet up with a costumed guide in Downtown, and they’ll walk you round the Ryman Auditorium, a century-old building which is allegedly cursed as well as being haunted by the spirits of ex-employees and the singer, Hank Williams Snr.

Go on to investigate Printer’s Alley where regular sightings of the ghost of a colorful neighborhood character who was murdered is frequently reported to be seen with his dog. Whether you believe in ghosts or you don’t, the tours are fun and you’ll find out interesting facts about Downtown. You can combine a ghost tour with a pub crawl and make the circuit of the district’s haunted pubs and taverns while having a beverage or two.

If none of those raise goosebumps, try taking a spine-tingling ghost tour around Downtown in a hearse. That’ll make your hair stand on end.

Related tour : Haunted Ghost Tour

9. Tennessee Performing Arts Center

Take in a concert, ballet performance or Broadway show at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center. The cultural and entertainments complex has three theaters, named after ex-US presidents from the state, and an auditorium.

War Memorial Auditorium is a historical, column-fronted building externally. Internally, the two-thousand seat venue is loaded with modern technology and is used for everything from rock concerts to weddings.

James K Polk Theater has a seating capacity of over one thousand, a huge stage and an orchestra pit. The theater stages multiple productions of comedy shows, drama, and opera.

Andrew Jackson Hall is a multi-use venue with seating for almost two and a half thousand spectators. There are regular performances of hits from Broadway, the recording of TV shows and major music concerts.

The Andrew Johnson Theater has an open-floor space, rather than a stage, which is surrounded by tiered seating. It’s mostly hosts gatherings, of less than two-hundred guests, for intimate, unplugged concerts or lectures.

10. Pontoon Saloon Party Cruise

Step aboard a floating saloon to navigate the Cumberland River and view DT Nashville from the water. The fifty-foot long barge has a public sailing which lasts for two hours, or if you’re with a group of friends, you can charter the boat for yourselves.

The sailings, which depart from the East Bank Docks on Victory Avenue, are BYOB which means bring your own booze – and food too if you want it. There’s party music and an open area on the bow where you can dance or just watch the city float by.

If you’re thinking of doing a Sunday sailing, buy your booze in advance as there’s no alcohol sold on Sundays in Tennessee. If you’re not in the party mood, there are morning sightseeing tours you can do instead.

11. Johnny Cash Museum

Johnny Cash, the original man in black, is one of the greatest country stars and singer-songwriters in the history of American music, a published author and film actor.

The Johnny Cash Museum in DT Nashville exhibits more memorabilia of the man than any other museum worldwide, including the Grammy Museum in Downtown LA. The star, who sold over ninety-million records, was a passionate activist for prison reform and Native Americans.

Don’t miss out on drinking a coffee in the museum cafe while listening to some of his awesome songs.

12. Fort Nashborough

Get a feel for what it might have been like to be one of the pioneers who founded Nashville by visiting Fort Nashborough.

The timber fort, which is in the Riverfront Park in Downtown Nashville, is a reconstructed replica of the one which the first settlers built to protect themselves from Indian attack.

The building is a smaller version of the original, which contained twenty cottages, but it still gives you a good insight into the hardships the settlers went through to survive the harsh conditions of that era.

13. Meat and Three

Having meat and three is a must in Downtown Nashville. Meat and three is a Tennessee tradition born in Nashville. This is a good and wholesome plate of food served in restaurants which specialize in meat and three.

Choose your meat; choices vary daily then load the plate with three side dishes. You’ll get cornbread on the side too. Some meat and threes serve the food others are buffet-style, just don’t expect upmarket formal dining. They have a comfortable, home from home country-kitchen feel to them.

Arnold’s, Puckett’s, or Katie’s are all popular meat and three diners in Downtown Nashville well worth dropping in at.

14. Simply The Best $10 Boutique

Shopping for souvenirs doesn’t have to cost a lot and won’t if you pop into Simply The Best $10 Boutique. The vintage fronted store is on 2nd Avenue in DT Nashville.

Whether you want a Nashville t-shirt, some cool dude sunglasses, baseball cap or accessories, the $10 stocks it. You’ll know how much your bill will be before you reach the counter too. It’s easy to calculate how much you’ve spent as everything is tagged with the same price ticket – $10 – no more, no less.

15. Ascend Amphitheater

From an aerial view, the Ascend Amphitheater looks like an alien spaceship which has descended from outer space and landed in Downtown Nashville’s Riverfront Park.

In reality, it’s a mega six thousand eight hundred seater event arena which hosts some of Nashville biggest and best outdoor concerts. The amphitheater has tiered seating as well as lawns where you can sprawl on the grass while legendary artists perform on the world-class stage.

The Ascend Amphitheater is the place to catch an outdoor summer concert or music festival. It’s amazing, but then it would be – it’s in Downtown Nashville.

15 Best Things To Do In Downtown Nashville:

• Segway Tour
• Frist Art Museum
• Nashville Farmers Market
• Bicentennial Capitol State Park
• Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum
• Peg Leg Porker BBQ
• Nashville Ghost Tours
• Tennessee Performing Arts Center
• Pontoon Saloon Party Cruise
• Johnny Cash Museum
• Fort Nashborough
• Meat and Three
• Simply The Best $10 Boutique
• Ascend Amphitheater

• Neighborhoods
• Happy Hours
• Eat & Drink

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The 20 best attractions and sights in nashville.

Whether you’ve lived here for years, just moved to town, or are visiting for the weekend, there’s no excuse for being bored in Music City. From must-see museums to iconic music venues, consider this your Nashville bucket list.

Nashville Zoo

Kids of all ages can enjoy a field trip to the Nashville Zoo , which has grown leaps and bounds since taking over the Grassmere property in 1996. Interactive exhibits like Critter Encounters and Lorikeet Landing as well as exhibits dedicated to flamingos, and meerkats keep local animal lovers intrigued.

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Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

Perhaps the most gorgeous 55 acres in the greater Nashville area, Cheekwood is a hit with locals and visitors year-round. From the Cheekwood Mansion art gallery to the estate’s 12 sprawling gardens to special exhibits from world-renowned artists, you could spend hours taking in all kinds of stunning visuals. Cheekwood also has a variety of seasonal installations including Cheekwood in Bloom , Cheekwood Harvest , and Holiday Lights at Cheekwood .

Frist Art Museum

With exhibits that rotate every six to eight weeks, no visit to the Frist Art Museum is ever the same—but you’re always guaranteed to leave inspired. Housed in an art deco building, Nashville’s hub for visual art displays works from local, state, and regional artists as well as national and international exhibitions.

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The Hermitage

The home of Andrew Jackson, located on the outskirts of town, is one of the most popular attractions in the state. Open as a museum since 1889, The Hermitage sits on more than 1,000 acres and comprises the seventh U.S. president’s stately mansion, its surrounding gardens and grounds, and the Jackson family tomb. The million-dollar exhibit, Andrew Jackson: Born for a Storm , features interactive displays and a deep dive into his multifaceted life.

GEODIS Park

GEODIS Park , situated in the heart of Wedgewood-Houston, is home to the Nashville Soccer Club. This 30,000-seat stadium is the largest soccer-specific stadium in the United States and Canada. Looking to catch a match? See the Nashville SC’s home game schedule here .

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Fifth + Broadway

Fifth + Broadway is a mixed-use development conveniently located on Broadway in Downtown Nashville. The building combines restaurants, shops, office space, a museum, and residential units. Restaurants include local favorites like Slim + Husky’s and Hattie B’s as well as nationally-known eateries like Shake Shack and Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. On the retail side, visitors can purchase Nashville-centric apparel at The Nash Collection or shop at one of the only brick-and-mortar Ariat stores in the world. Explore the 55,000-square-foot National Museum of African American Music or stay indefinitely at The Place.

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Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum

It’s known as “the Smithsonian of country music” for good reason, The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum spans 350,000 square feet of prime Downtown Nashville real estate, which it packs with thousands of artifacts, two performance theaters, and countless rotating special exhibitions. The museum’s permanent installation, Sing Me Back Home , takes visitors through the evolution of country music from its roots in the nineteenth century to today’s biggest hitmakers.

Bluebird Cafe

The world-famous and incredibly intimate Bluebird Cafe is where you go to hear your favorite songs—and their backstories—straight from the people who wrote them. (Yes, just like on TV.) Nearly every night, this tiny cafe hosts a group of songwriters who play and banter their way through acoustic rounds, captivating those who got lucky enough to score a seat.

Grand Ole Opry

An essential Nashville music experience is a trip to the historic Grand Ole Opry —it’s the only place where country music stars of past, present, and future have shared the same stage. Spring for the backstage tour, where you can see the Opry’s 18-themed dressing rooms, learn behind-the-scenes secrets, and, if you’re lucky, step foot in “The Circle” yourself.

John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge , completed in 1909, is a steel-trussed bridge that connects East Nashville with the hustle and bustle of Downtown Nashville. Runners, commuters, and sightseers alike can be found crisscrossing this skyline landmark at all hours of the day, often pausing to admire the picturesque Cumberland views.

Ryman Auditorium

Your first show at the prestigious Mother Church—famed for its acoustics and pew seating—will be a turning point in your concert-going experience. Formerly the home of the Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman now shines on its own as a hallowed performance hall for all genres of musicians as well as comedians and authors. Self-guided tours are available daily, tickets are $27+ for adults and $18+ for children (4-11).

Broadway Honky-Tonks

Though they might complain about it, even locals have a hard time staying away from Nashville’s glittering main strip—it’s that much of a good time. Lined with perennial honky-tonks like Robert’s Western World and Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge , Lower Broadway has seen a revitalization with trendier establishments like Acme Feed and Seed and Miranda Lambert’s Casa Rosa .

Radnor Lake State Park

Offering 1,300 acres of serene forests, trails, and wildlife, the Radnor Lake area is a literal breath of fresh air for cooped-up Nashvillians. And this natural treasure offers even more than just exercise and a break from daily stressors—The Barbara J. Mapp Aviary Education Center can turn your visit into a full-on learning experience.

Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery

Stop at Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery for a part history lesson and part good old-fashioned whiskey tasting. Brothers Andy and Charlie Nelson revived their great-great-great-grandfather’s family business in 2009. The tour guides here will take you back to the start over a century ago and its subsequent shutting down during Prohibition—cheers to the Nelsons’ happy ending!

The Parthenon

The Parthenon , originally constructed as a temporary exhibit for Tennessee’s 1897 Centennial Exposition, is a full-scale replica of the iconic Athens structure that became so popular it is now a permanent Nashville fixture. Updates over the years have included the creation of the surrounding Centennial Park, a complete overhaul of the structure’s exterior, and the installation of a 42-foot-tall Athena statue. When you visit, don’t miss the fine art museum on the lower level.

Goo Goo Shop and Dessert Bar

The Goo Goo Cluster isn’t just your ordinary sweet treat—it’s the world’s first-ever “combination candy,” a swirl of caramel, marshmallow nougat, peanuts, and chocolate. Fittingly, the Goo Goo Shop and Dessert Bar’s headquarters isn’t just a shop—it’s a decadent destination, featuring Goo Goo’s rich history, a dessert and coffee bar, and a clear view of the confectionary kitchen’s skilled candy makers.

“I Believe in Nashville” Murals

You won’t find a more “Nashville” photo-op than the “I Believe in Nashville” murals . Music City native Adrien Saporiti has created two of them across town, one each in 12 South and Marathon Village —both neighborhoods are a must-visit!

Johnny Cash Museum

Whether you’re a casual listener or a die-hard fan of the Man in Black, it’s hard not to be emotionally moved as you walk through the Johnny Cash Museum . From his humble beginnings in Arkansas to his groundbreaking Folsom Prison performance to his love affair with June Carter, this is a fully-encompassing journey of Cash and his legacy.

First Horizon Park

First Horizon Park , is home to The Nashville Sounds, a Minor League Baseball team of the International League. This massive ballpark situated in Germantown, boasts an unrivaled view of the field, a guitar-shaped scoreboard, and limitless concessions. The stadium also hosts occasional concerts, events, and festivals.

Soundwaves + Gaylord Opryland

SoundWaves , the upscale indoor-outdoor water attraction at  Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center , offers over four acres of entertainment, including 11 slides, a wave pool, FlowRider wave simulator, rapid and lazy rivers, an activity pool, a restaurant, adults-only pool and bar, private cabanas, and kids areas. This attraction is open year-round.

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7 Comments on "The 20 Best Attractions and Sights in Nashville"

looking forward to visiting

I need to see my beautiful city! Summer 2001 here we come!!!!!

Hello, thank you for the information. I would like to suggest one more place to enjoy night life in Nashville and it is called as Legend’s Corner.

Free 1910 year old car factory museum showing how they made car in the early 1900s

I will be visiting Nashville soon, so excited can’t wait!!!

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Downtown Nashville

The sound of Nashville reverberates from the city’s downtown core where honky tonks play world-class live music 365 days a year, historic buildings have been reimagined into music attractions, boutique hotels, art galleries, chef-driven restaurants, and newly constructed hotels, eateries, music venues, and attractions pop up all over.

Explore Downtown Nashville for things to do and attractions to visit.

Nashville's Honky Tonk Highway is a row of establishments that pump live music into the streets, have at least one rockin' stage, cold beverages, and a party that lasts all day and into the night. You never know who you’ll run into at one of these Lower Broadway clubs, so stop by and see who's playing your tune 365 days out of the year.

Find the best spots to get food and order a drink in Downtown Nashville.

Find the perfect thing in Downtown Nashville to bring home with you.

Listen to the sounds and explore all the fun that Downtown Nashville has to offer.

Look for the perfect place to stay in Downtown Nashville for your next trip.

Stay in the heart of it all and experience the excitement of Music City! The  Best of Downtown Nashville Package  allows you to customize your vacation by selecting the attractions you would like to visit, which are all within walking distance from the downtown hotels. Take home a piece of Music City with a  Music Calls Us Home Gift Bag .

Start planning your next trip by looking for the perfect place to stay in Downtown Nashville. Lodging comes with amenities to make your stay exceptional.

Each of Nashville's neighborhoods provides a unique vibe and experience complete with shopping, dining and nightlife options that offer locals and visitors a taste of Nashville's eclectic diversity.

Explore Nashville's Neighborhoods and discover what makes this a Music City.

• Save BIG on Nashville attractions and tours with the Music City Total Access Pass.
• Do more for less with these special offers, discount tickets, package deals, and giveaways.

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Things To Do in Downtown Nashville (You don’t want to miss!)

From the Author: I've lived in Nashville for 12 years, and my wife was born here. Alex worked downtown for five years. We love Broadway and know it well. If you have any questions, we respond quickly to comments!

The fantastic thing about Nashville is that the best attractions are within walking distance of downtown.

If you stay at any of the most popular hotels downtown, you can immediately access the best of Music City.

Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum

The Musicians Hall of Fame is an authentic Nashville experience. It's within easy walking distance of most attractions and downtown hotels.

The museum boasts instruments and memorabilia from the biggest records in American history. I'm talking about Johnny Cash, Jimi Hendrix, Patsy Cline, Glenn Campbell, The Eagles and more.

It also tells the stories of the musicians, songwriters, and engineers behind the scenes, creating the soundtrack to the most iconic sounds ever. Bands like the Nashville A-Team and The Wrecking Crew. It was founded by Nashville Walk of Fame inductee, songwriter, and musician Joe Chambers.

I'd say that the Musicians Hall of Fame should be at the top of your to-do list as a genuinely unique Nashville experience.

Get your tickets here. We also recommend the Nashville Sightseeing Pass . It offers 20% or more discounts to most major Nashville attractions.

Lower Broadway

There are many honky-tonks on Lower Broadway; you should visit as many as possible. I wrote a blog post dedicated to the must-visit bars on Broadway . However, no matter what bars you enjoy, don't miss the honky-tonks listed below. They set the standard.

Acme Feed and Seed

Acme Feed and Seed offers experiences over four distinct floors. The ground floor delivers a fresh perspective on the traditional honky-tonk, offering local brews, craft cocktails, and a menu highlighting Southern flavors. For live music, ascend to the second floor, where various bands and DJs set the mood.

On the third floor, you'll encounter a sushi bar for those craving a different culinary experience. Finally, the rooftop patio on the fourth floor provides remarkable views of the Cumberland River and downtown Nashville. The space's past life as a grain warehouse is subtly echoed in its industrial-chic style.

• Operating hours are from 11 AM to 2:30 AM, seven days a week.
• Keep in mind that Acme is a bustling hub, especially during weekends, so you might want to plan your visit ahead.
• Phone: 615-915-0888
• Website: www.theacmenashville.com

Roberts Western World

Roberts Western World has consistently won the title of “Best Honky-Tonk” in Nashville's well-known publication, The Nashville Scene, for the past eight years. Whether it's the top bar on Nashville's Broadway is for you to judge. Annually, it's chosen as the best source of country music on Broadway.

This honky-tonk boasts a rich history, having gone by names like “Roberts Three Doors Down,” “Roberts Lounge Room,” and “Rhinestone Western Wear.”

The current owner of Roberts Western World is Jesse Lee Jones, whose picture you can see above. Born in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Jesse's love for country and gospel music led him to feel misplaced in his home country. As a result, he journeyed to the United States to chase his dreams. Upon his arrival at Roberts, the establishment transitioned from a western apparel shop into a honky-tonk. Jesse acquired the place from Robert and, through tireless effort, has transformed it into the notable venue it is today.

Tootsies is one of the most famous and oldest honky-tonks in Nashville . It was started by Tootsie Bess, who supported up-and-coming country music stars when they came into town to play at the Grand Ole Opry.

Tootsies butts up against the Ryman Auditorium and is known as the “front door to the back door” of the Ryman.

Traditionally, it's also been a place where musicians have come to network with other artists and songwriters and perform new songs.

Lining the wall of the honky-tonk are the photos that Tootsie Bess collected of the stars that have played within this bar.

Tootsies is located on Lower Broadway and is open seven days a week from 9:30 am to 3:00 am. The world-famous bar features three floors of live music , including a rooftop with a stunning view of Nashville. When you step inside, you can feel the history of Nashville music. The Wall of Fame is still there, and the bands are top-notch.

For more information, I've written a complete guide to Tootsies called  “the most famous bar in Nashville.”

As a side note, if you don't see Tootsies on Broadway, they have a special location within the Nashville airport.

Related: 29 Non-Touristy Things To Do In Nashville

Ryman Auditorium

The Ryman Auditorium is called the “Mother Church of Country Music.” It was the original location of the Grand Ole Opry, which started in 1925.

The building was initially built as a church, but to pay the bills, it allowed secular music to be played. That music became a regular occurrence, and the Grand Ole Opry was born. It still feels like you are sitting in a church as the wooden pews all face toward the main stage where the preacher would have been.

The Ryman is holy ground in Nashville. Every major star you can think of has graced the stage, including Johnny Cash and Elvis. The better question is, “Who hasn't performed here?”

Right next door to the Ryman is the famous Tootsies, where performers gathered before and after their performance at the Ryman.

You can still see shows almost every night of the week. You can also get tours backstage and see where the stars hang in the green room before the shows. You can learn more about tours here.

Country Music Hall of Fame

If you appreciate country music, this is your ultimate destination in Nashville. Located in the vibrant downtown Nashville, the Hall of Fame is a convenient stroll from most accommodations and the country music hotspots along Broadway.

This museum gives you an unparalleled insight into the history of country music and its impact on American society. It boasts many important relics, including costumes, musical instruments, gold records, and uncommon posters. It regularly hosts temporary exhibitions on various topics. A special exhibit featuring Taylor Swift displays many of her stage costumes and instruments.

Reasons you may not prefer visiting:

You may not find it interesting if country music is not your cup of tea. Expense. The ticket price for adults is $27.95 for only the museum. Opting for the museum, Hatch Show Print Tour and RCA Studio B would cost $71.95. Congestion. As one of Nashville's leading attractions, it can get crowded.

If you prefer to avoid crowded places, consider visiting during off-peak hours. Country music enthusiasts will cherish the experience. It's a place where the most significant country music figures are commemorated. Notably, it is renowned for its live shows and programs.

Various events, like concerts, panel discussions, and songwriting workshops, are hosted, offering a one-of-a-kind and engaging experience – perfect for children!

Within the museum, for an additional fee, you can find the CMA Theater, which hosts numerous live performances, Hatch Show Print, a functioning letterpress printing shop, and the historic RCA Studio B.

Website:  www.countrymusichalloffame.org . To get tickets, click here.

Johnny Cash Museum

This Upper Broadway museum showcases a treasure trove of artifacts from Cash's life, including guitars, amplifiers, attire, hymnals, postcards, and more. It traces his life beyond music, with exhibits featuring military uniforms, bibles, and documents. The museum can become quite busy, so it's recommended to visit during off-peak times, such as midday on a weekday.

You might also be interested that the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum features an expansive collection and exhibit dedicated to Johnny Cash.

The museum's convenient location makes it easily accessible from most downtown hotels. It's also a short stroll from Lower Broadway, known for its honky-tonks, to Upper Broadway, where the museum resides.

Once your visit concludes, you can dine at the Sun Diner or wander down the road to the 5th and Broad development, which boasts an excellent food hall that comes highly recommended.

General admission costs $25.95 plus tax; you can purchase tickets here.

Ole Smoky Distillery & Yee-Haw Brewery

For the first-time visitor, the Ole Smoky Distillery & Yee-Haw Brewery can provide a unique look into Nashville's culture. Here, you can explore the production process of moonshine and beer, two well-regarded beverages in the area.

On the site, you'll find a multitude of stills in operation where white lightning is produced, a popular moonshine style. The distillers can guide you through the process, from the raw grain to the final product. In addition, the Yee-Haw Brewery gives you a peek at their beer brewing techniques, boasting a selection ranging from traditional ales to distinctive IPAs.

Within the premises, there are opportunities to taste their offerings. You'll be given samples of the moonshine and beers, a chance to familiarize yourself with these local favorites. Nearby dining options are available for when you need a meal.

• Address: 423 6th Ave S, Nashville
• Open every day, from 11 am to 11 pm.
• Phone: 615-647-8272
• Website:  www.olesmoky.com .

Related: Things To Do in Nashville (downtown and beyond)

RCA Studio B

RCA Studio B has been coined the “origin of countless hits.” Today, it is one of the rare tours available in Nashville. Sun, Motown, and Stax are comparable studios, revered as the “Sanctuaries of Sound” in American heritage.

Over 100,000 people visit the studio each year, and the Country Music Hall of Fame manages it with an educational aim. Visitors hail from all corners of the globe.

Opened in 1957, RCA had facilities nationwide, but the Nashville site was explicitly constructed with Elvis Presley in mind. For a period, the studio was overseen by Chet Atkins. Notably, Chet discovered the Everly Brothers, who also recorded at the studio. Chet and Owen Bradley played a crucial role in shaping the “Nashville Sound.” The studio musicians were recognized as the industry's best.

Groups like the Nashville A-Team and The Wrecking Crew could master and record songs rapidly and successfully. About 45,000 pieces were recorded here, with Elvis contributing 240 of them.

Artists who recorded at Studio B:

Everly Brothers Roy Orbison, Chet Atkins, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, and many more!

• Address: 222 5th Ave. South, Downtown Nashville.
• The tour commences at the Country Music Hall of Fame.
• To schedule a tour at RCA Studio B, click here.

Are you looking for a different kind of sightseeing in Nashville? How about checking out the city's sprawling outdoor art gallery of murals? Each is a burst of creativity splashed across the city's walls, an unexpected delight around many corners.

It would help if you started with the ‘I Believe in Nashville' mural in 12 South. It's an iconic piece by local artist Adrien Saporiti and has become quite the hotspot for selfies. Over in East Nashville, there's the ‘DCXV' mural about unity, saying, ‘Stay tuned, Nashville.'

Finding these murals is quite an adventure, as they are tucked away in various neighborhoods. Plotting out a map beforehand could come in handy. Each mural reflects the city's vibrant spirit and adds a unique flavor to your Nashville experience.

Address for ‘I Believe in Nashville': 2706 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.

See our guide to Nashville Murals here.

Printers Alley

Printers Alley is a Nashville hidden gem that all visitors should know about. Like other attractions in this post, it's located downtown and just a short walk from Broadway.

With Printers Alley, you get to experience authentic Nashville without the craziness of the honky-tonk highway.

In the early 1900s, Printers Alley was a hub of printing and banking. Then, as times changed, it became the go-to place in the city for drinking , dancing, and partying. 

The famous Alley has hosted greats like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, Etta James, Paul McCartney, and Bob Dylan, to name a few. Paul McCartney mentions Printers Alley in his song “Sally G.” when he says,  “The nightlife took me down to Printers Alley.”

Skulls Rainbow Room is most famous for its jazz and burlesque shows, which can still be seen today.

During prohibition, Printers Alley was known for its speakeasies, where you could get a drink illegally.

Printers Alley has kept its charm and historic feel. As you walk the cobbled streets , you now know you're walking the same streets trodden by entertainers and presidents alike. I highly recommend you check it out. I wrote a complete guide to the best places to visit on Printers Alley that you can see by clicking here.

LA Jackson Rooftop Bar

LA Jackson Rooftop Bar, located in the heart of The Gulch, offers you a distinct experience. As you step into the place, you'll notice it's on the top floor of the Thompson Hotel, offering an expansive view of Nashville's skyline. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely afternoon or an evening drink, with their extensive menu, including a range of craft cocktails, local beers, and an array of snacks, perfect for a light meal.

On weekends, this spot turns lively with a DJ spinning tunes. You may also love to check out their Sunday brunch. Remember, LA Jackson maintains a dress code after 8 p.m. on weekends, so be prepared.

• Location: 401 11th Ave S, Nashville, Thompson Hotel's rooftop.
• Hours: Monday – Thursday, 11 AM – 11 PM; Friday & Saturday, 11 AM – 12 AM; Sunday, 10:30 AM – 11 PM.
• Phone: 615 262 6007
• Website: www.lajacksonbar.com

Saint Anejo Mexican Restaurant

Saint Añejo boasts a prime location in downtown Nashville's heart of the Gulch, only a 10-minute stroll from Union Square Hotel or Grand Hyatt Downtown.

An essential criterion for an outstanding Mexican restaurant is its margaritas. Saint Añejo offers a variety of artisan margaritas and a pitcher serving about four freshly prepared drinks.

Here's why we appreciate it:

The ambiance is splendid, with ample space for large groups. We suggest trying the Barbacoa and brisket tacos. Complimentary warm tortilla chips and salsa are served. An impressive range of tequila is available for either sipping or mixing. The staff is proficient, and the bartenders are knowledgeable. They serve tantalizing spicy margaritas. They have a good brunch menu. The steak and nachos are delectable. Their hot chicken tacos are a must-try.

The Station Inn

This represents a genuine Nashville experience with pickers, bluegrass, and American roots music. Only the top-notch performers grace this stage, including artists like Dierks Bentley, The Time Jumpers, Sturgill Simpson, and others. The venue is arranged as a theatre-style listening room. For more details, check out our post about Nashville's top bars with live music .

The Basement East

Since 2015, The Basement East has been a prominent stage for live music in Nashville. Renowned musicians such as Dashboard Confessional, Alice Cooper, Dawes, Cage The Elephant, Lukas Graham, Brandy Clark, Maren Morris, Chris Stapleton, and others have performed at this club.

Situated in East Nashville, local artists recognize it as one of the finest venues to experience live music in Nashville. To learn more, click here.

The Exit/Inn

Established in 1971, The Exit/In is a storied music venue in Nashville that has persistently championed alternative music, even amidst the city's prevailing country music presence. It holds the distinction of being the first Nashville venue to host songwriters' nights. It has welcomed diverse artists spanning multiple genres, including Kings of Leon, Sheryl Crow, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Steve Martin. Today, it continues to be an invaluable and vibrant part of Nashville's music landscape.

Get Cowboy Hats

There are a couple of spots in town that you should consider:

First up is Stetson Hat Works. Recognized for their craftsmanship and quality, Stetson Hat Works offers an array of cowboy hats to fit any preference. The variety from classic styles to modern designs will surely cater to your specific taste. The shop also provides custom fitting services to ensure your chosen hat fits perfectly. Located at 130 2nd Avenue North, it's an easily accessible destination from most downtown hotels.

Another notable location is Boot Barn, positioned at 318 Broadway. More than just a store, Boot Barn presents a shopping experience with its extensive collection of cowboy hats. Here, you can find hats made of different materials, from traditional felt cowboy hats to straw hats for the hotter Nashville days.

• Stetson Hat Works
• Address: 130 2nd Avenue North, Nashville
• Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm, Sunday 12 pm – 5 pm
• Phone: 615-248-4287
• Website:  www.stetsonhatworks.com
• Address: 318 Broadway, Nashville
• Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10 am – 9 pm
• Phone: 615-742-9780 Website:  www.bootbarn.com

Get Cowboy Boots

In Nashville, you'll find various establishments that cater to the city's historic cowboy culture, particularly if you're looking to buy authentic cowboy boots.

Boot Country is a staple for tourists and locals on Lower Broadway. They run a widespread offer of ‘Buy one pair, get two free,' making this store an exciting destination for those planning to expand their boot collection. Expect many boot styles and colors to match any outfit or mood.

Boot Barn on Broadway is another store worth your attention. It's a well-established brand across the United States, known for its extensive range of cowboy boots and western wear. Boot Barn provides a comprehensive shopping experience for all cowboy boot enthusiasts, from traditional designs to more contemporary ones.

Peter Nappi in the charming Germantown neighborhood is a must. Peter Nappi is famous for its Italian-made, artisanal leather goods. Their cowboy boots are an elegant amalgamation of old and new designs, offering a distinctive addition to your boot collection.

Here are the details for each store:

• Boot Country
• 304 Broadway, Nashville
• Open daily from 10 am to 10 pm.
• Phone: (615) 259-1691.
• Website:  www.bootcountryonline.com
• 318 Broadway
• Open Sunday – Thursday from 10 am to 8 pm, Friday – Saturday from 10 am to 9 pm.
• Phone: (615) 742-9780.
• Website:  www.bootbarn.com
• Peter Nappi
• 1308 Adams St, Nashville
• Open Tuesday – Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm.
• Phone: (615) 248-3310.
• Website:  www.peternappi.com

Glen Campbell Museum

There's a spot right in the heart of Nashville called the Glen Campbell Museum. If you enjoy peering into the lives of music legends, you'll feel right at home here. The museum opened its doors in 2020 with a primary goal to keep Glen Campbell's spirit alive.

As you step through the exhibits, you'll find yourself tracing Campbell's life, from his humble beginnings in Arkansas to his booming career in Los Angeles and Nashville. The museum's collection boasts many items from his prosperous five-decade-long career, such as stage costumes, personal items, and guitars.

For an immersive experience, take advantage of the interactive area where you can sit back and listen to Campbell's chart-topping hits. The Glen Campbell Museum is at 121 2nd Ave N, Downtown Nashville. Operating hours are from 10 am to 6 pm, Sunday to Thursday, and they extend the closing time to 8 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Check out  www.glencampbellmuseum.com  for more details.

Fifth & Broadway

Fifth and Broadway is Nashville's newest establishment, featuring a diverse range of dining, shopping, and retail options, all near the Honky-Tonk Highway and the Ryman Auditorium. In truth, it's within a stroll from virtually everything.

The Assembly Food Hall is a prime highlight, offering a variety of foods such as pizza, desserts, cocktails, salads, hot chicken , and burgers, to mention just a few.

Key dining spots to remember include Hattie B's and Princes, renowned for its hot chicken, and CAVA, known for its healthy salads.

For a comprehensive directory of restaurants and bars, click here.

Farmers Market

You'll want to put the Nashville Farmers Market on your itinerary. As you wander around the Farm Sheds, open daily, you'll come across a whole bunch of locally grown produce. It's like stepping into a countryside farm in the middle of the city.

Hungry? The market has you covered. With a selection of farm-to-table eateries and an international food court, you can dig into some delicious local flavors. There's this place called the Grow Local Kitchen where chefs take turns cooking their specialty dishes.

But it's not just about food. Check out the Market House, where vendors sell unique handcrafted items that might be the perfect souvenir from your trip.

Just remember, times can vary. Farm sheds are open from 8 am to 6 pm daily. Market House is open 10 am – 6 pm from Sunday to Thursday and until 8 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

More info can be found on their site,  www.nashvillefarmersmarket.org .

And it's all located at 900 Rosa L Parks Blvd. It's a spot that gives you a real taste of Nashville life.

Tennessee Titans Game

You're in for a thrilling time when you go see a Tennessee Titans game. The Titans, Nashville's NFL team, play their home games at the Nissan Stadium, which has a seating capacity of 69,143, promising an electric atmosphere. As a new visitor, be prepared for an array of on-field action with high energy from players and the fans.

The stadium's location, 1 Titans Way, is easily accessible and offers fantastic views of the city's skyline. Plan to arrive early to soak in the lively pre-game atmosphere, as fans often tailgate in the parking lots before the game.

Game days usually fall on Sundays, with the occasional Thursday or Monday night game. Kickoff times can vary, so checking the schedule in advance is wise. Ticket prices vary based on the opponent and seating section, so plan accordingly.

Website for tickets and more details:  www.tennesseetitans.com

Hatch Show Print

Hatch Show Print is situated within the Country Music Hall of Fame, renowned for producing letterpress posters for over 140 years.

You can witness the ongoing creation process in their shop, partake in a tour to delve into its intricacies, and explore the popular designs available for purchase in their store. Surprisingly, the core operation of this shop, alongside welcoming visitors, is crafting posters for today's artists.

When it opened its doors in 1879, Hatch Show Print undertook large-scale advertising tasks, including billboards, building-side signs, business cards, and more. These days, their primary work revolves around poster designs, approximately 800 annually, specifically for artists.

Companies today continue to commission Hatch Show Print for their advertisements due to the classic typeset and the sense of nostalgia it invokes.

Strolling around admiring the many posters produced over the years, is a delight, and it's fascinating to see their artwork still in use today.

Hatch Show Print has a history of collaboration with major stars such as Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, Collective Soul, Elvis Costello, and Aretha Franklin. They often quip that it's simpler to name the artists they haven't featured than those they have.

Annually, thousands of visitors grace the shop, and guides are available to respond to inquiries and demonstrate how the shop functions in the present day.

They possess a retail outlet where one can purchase historic posters of famous figures like Roy Acuff.

In the current era, the rhythmic sound of the vintage presses overpowers the downtown buzz, and the air is thick with the scent of paint.

You can reserve a tour by clicking here.

Tennessee State Museum

Situated at 1000 Rosa L. Parks Blvd in Nashville, the Tennessee State Museum is an excellent platform for anyone eager to explore the state's extensive history and vibrant culture. The museum typically operates from Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 am to 5 pm, and Sundays from 1 pm to 5 pm. However, remember that it remains closed on Mondays and public holidays, such as New Year's Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

The museum boasts a unique layout, with its permanent exhibits structured in the “Tennessee Time Tunnel.” This arrangement offers more than a standard museum experience – it's a voyage through Tennessee's chronicles, showcasing artifacts, narratives, and displays from various periods of the state's history in a captivating and interactive manner.

The permanent exhibits consist of seven principal sections:

Tennessee Time Tunnel, Natural History, First Peoples, Forging a Nation, The Civil War and Reconstruction, Change and Challenge, and Tennessee Transforms. Remember to explore the temporary exhibits during your visit . Exhibitions such as “Building a Bright Future,” “Remembrance: Military Representation Through Public Art at the State Capitol,” “Early Expressions: Art in Tennessee Before 1900,” and “In Search of the New: Art in Tennessee Since 1900,” offer a dynamic exploration of specific themes and eras in Tennessee's past.

Despite the vast scope of the museum's collections, its well-planned layout ensures easy navigation. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply curious about Tennessee, the State Museum presents an enlightening and enjoyable journey. Make sure to allocate enough time to explore the various exhibits, each laden with information about the state's legacy. Given its easy accessibility from most downtown hotels, the museum is a convenient addition to your Nashville travel plans.

Hot Chicken

You should add a local dish to your Nashville itinerary: hot chicken. It's a deep-fried delight treated with a paste made of cayenne pepper, delivering a kick that's as warm as the city's southern hospitality.

One place to check out is Hattie B's. Founded by father-and-son duo Nick Bishop Sr. and Jr., it's widely known for serving this delicacy to newcomers and seasoned foodies. You can choose your spice level – ranging from ‘no heat' to ‘shut the cluck up' for those feeling adventurous.

Hattie B's has three locations in Nashville. If you're around Midtown, stop by at 112 19th Ave S. Their hours are 11 am – 10 pm every day except Sunday, when they close at 4 pm.

Confirm their operating hours on the Website ( www.hattieb.com ) before you go, as timings might change. Enjoy the heat!

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Nashville   Travel Guide

Courtesy of SeanPavonePhoto | Getty Images

28 Best Things to Do in Nashville, Tennessee

There’s more to Nashville than the live entertainment and bars on Broadway (though those are very much worth experiencing – especially on a guided tour ). In recent years, Nashville has propelled its "It City" status by becoming a beacon for

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Grand Ole Opry Grand Ole Opry

U.S. News Insider Tip: Take the “Women of Country” tour to learn about the women who shaped country music, from Dolly Parton to Carrie Underwood, complete with mimosas and petit fours. – Kellie Walton

The Grand Ole Opry began as a radio show in 1925, and it put Nashville on the map as the "Country Music Capital of the World." Throughout its history, the Grand Ole Opry has called several different places home (including the Ryman Auditorium ), but has always hosted country performers from legends like Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton to favorites like Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban.

Ryman Auditorium Ryman Auditorium

IU.S. News Insider Tip:  Take the tour to learn of this building's fascinating history, and check the calendar to see if you can experience a live performance. The intimacy of the space and amazing acoustics are one-of-a-kind. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

There's no better place to start absorbing Nashville's musical heritage than the Ryman Auditorium. It's no longer home to the Grand Ole Opry , but the venue continues to host contemporary acts like Trace Adkins, Blake Shelton and Luke Combs. The Ryman is not only for country stars however; it has hosted musicians like Paul Simon and comedians such as John Mulaney. Recent visitors suggest opting for a tour to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the legendary music venue. Sit in on the "Soul of Nashville" screening for a multidimensional experience that uses archival images and footage of performers from the Ryman's past to illustrate its role in music history. Plus, you can learn about the building's backstory with its "Workin' on a Building" exhibit, which displays artifacts from the Ryman's construction. What's more, you can test out your own pipes at the recording studio (subject to availability). The Ryman is also a featured stop on many of the city's top guided tours .

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Check the calendar for Songwriter Sessions (typically on Saturdays) in the Ford Theater, for a glimpse into the songwriting process. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Music and history lovers can mix and mingle over the exhibits found at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Peruse the plaques dedicated to country music's finest – from Patsy Cline to Reba McEntire to Alan Jackson – and walk among artifacts like Johnny Cash's guitar and Elvis Presley's "solid gold" Cadillac limo. For an interactive history lesson on the roots and evolution of country music, take a self-guided walk through the "Sing Me Back Home: A Journey Through Country Music" exhibit. In addition to its permanent exhibit, the museum hosts various revolving temporary exhibits, which often focus on particular artists. Stop to browse the two-story wall plastered gold and platinum country records, and then head to Historic RCA Studio B . One of the world's most influential recording studios and a Music Row landmark, Studio B produced more than 35,000 songs by legends like Dolly Parton, Waylon Jennings and Roy Orbison. (Note: Studio B is about 1.5 miles southwest of the museum.)

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Broadway Broadway free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Bar hop among the different Broadway bars to hear some of the most talented singers in the city. Bring some cash to tip the musicians and request your favorite country songs. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

While many people visit Nashville to soak up the history of country music at the city's museums (like the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum ), others prefer enjoying the tunes in person. The best way to do that is to visit Broadway, downtown Nashville's main thoroughfare. Lower Broadway is nicknamed the "Honky Tonk Highway" because of the numerous spots that host live acts daily. What's more, there's no cover charge to the establishments, so you can bar hop as you please.

National Museum of African American Music National Museum of African American Music

The city of Nashville embodies more than just country music, and nowhere is this more apparent than at the National Museum of African American Music. Opened in 2021, the museum aims to educate visitors on the influence of African American people on more than 50 genres of popular music, including jazz, gospel and hip-hop.

Each of the museum's galleries focuses on how African American music changed through specific time periods. The "Wade in the Water" gallery highlights the call-and-response spirituals of the 1600s, while the "Crossroads" gallery showcases the emergence of blues music. The "A Love Supreme" gallery teaches museumgoers about the musical traditions of New Orleans and the emergence of the music now known as jazz, and the "One Nation Under a Groove" gallery details the emergence of R&B starting in the 1940s and chronicles music popularized by the civil rights era. Finally, "The Message" gallery offers a detailed look into hip-hop, rap and youth culture up until the present day. Interactive elements and musical artifacts like sheet music and costumes add to the informative displays. Recent visitors came away deeply impressed with everything from the comprehensive history presented to entertaining interactive exhibits.

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge Tootsie's Orchid Lounge

After a day exploring the roots of the "Country Music Capital of the World," why not experience the sounds of Music City first-hand? If you're looking for a fun atmosphere with top-notch performances, Tootsie's "World Famous" Orchid Lounge on Broadway is the place to go. Since the days when the Grand Ole Opry  called the  Ryman Auditorium  home, this downtown bar has been featuring performances by both world-renowned and up-and-coming artists. Indeed, the place abounds in country music history: part of the Loretta Lynn biopic "A Coal Miner’s Daughter" was filmed here, and legend has it that Willie Nelson got his first songwriting job after performing at Tootsie's.

Patrons have mixed opinions about Tootsie's with some complaining about average food, expensive drinks, and musicians assertively soliciting tips, while others say the multiple floors of first-rate music make up for the woes. Though some travelers bemoan the bar's cramped atmosphere, many believe it's part of the Tootsie's experience.

Best Nashville Tours

Nashville Tours

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Bluebird Cafe Bluebird Cafe

U.S. News Insider Tip: This intimate venue is where stars like Garth Brooks were discovered. Check the calendar at least a month prior to your visit to get tickets in advance. There's a very limited amount of tickets that might be released the day of, but it's a must-experience spot in Music City. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

The Bluebird Cafe is an intimate, 90-seat music venue that presents two shows per night every night of the week. Despites its unimpressive appearance, location in a strip mall outside of downtown and small size, the Bluebird achieved a reputation as a songwriter's space, and many significant performers have graced its stage over the years. Garth Brooks, for instance, performed at its open mic night before hitting the big time. Be aware that the cafe has a "Shhh policy" which encourages folks to stay quiet during all performances. (As souvenir you can buy a T-shirt with "Shhhh!" printed on the back.)

Centennial Park Centennial Park free

Encompassing the site of the 1897 Tennessee Centennial Exposition, 132-acre Centennial Park boasts an art center, a lake, a walking trail, a band shell, volleyball courts, a dog park and various historical monuments. It's also home to the Parthenon as well as the Centennial Sportsplex, a facility for swimming, tennis and year-round ice skating. The park hosts numerous festivals as well as free concerts on Saturdays in spring and fall.

Reviewers frequently say that this peaceful, well-maintained greenspace is a lovely place to take a walk. Many say the Parthenon is the must-see attraction here.

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Historic RCA Studio B Historic RCA Studio B

In its heyday, this recording studio welcomed greats like Elvis Presley, Chet Atkins, and the Everly Brothers through its doors. It is now part of the nonprofit Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum , and has been restored and renovated to reflect its historic roots. Built in 1957, the studio became famous for promoting the "Nashville sound" and put the city on the map as an international recording center. Today, visitors can take a tour of the studio to see where the stars recorded their music. Visitors give high marks to informative and engaging guides, with many saying the tour was a highlight of their visit to Nashville.

The studio is about 1.5 miles away from the Country Music Hall of Fame, where the tours depart (transportation is included). One-hour tours of Studio B are offered between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Tickets for adults are $51.95 and include admission to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Youth tickets are $41.95. More information can be found on the website .

Nelson's Green Brier Distillery Nelson's Green Brier Distillery

Fans of Tennessee whiskey and bourbon should make time for a stop at Nelson's Green Brier Distillery during their visit to Nashville. The distillery's roots reach back to the late 1800s, when Charles Nelson, a German immigrant, started producing whiskey in Greenbrier, Tennessee. It became so popular he ended up selling about 2 million bottles of whiskey in 1885 alone. Nelson was one of the first distillery owners to sell whiskey in bottles rather than more cumbersome jugs or barrels, which allowed him to achieve wide-spread distribution. He died in 1891 and his wife Louisa took over, though in 1909, Tennessee’s statewide Prohibition forced her to shutter the operation. Nearly 100 years later, the couple's great-great-great-grandsons, brothers Andy and Charlie Nelson, restored the business and brought the operation to Nashville. Today, the venue features the distillery, a tasting room, an event space and a gift and bottle shop. Tours of the distillery run on weekends.

Past travelers called the tasting fun and informational. Others said to sign up for a tour. Visitors said the friendly staff members were particularly knowledgeable and all the whiskey samples were excellent.

The Hermitage The Hermitage

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're a history buff, be sure to visit this historic site for a glimpse into the life of Andrew Jackson, as well as the realities of the lives of the enslaved people of the estate. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Constructed between 1819 and 1821 for President Andrew Jackson, this Federal-style mansion stands as a National Historic Landmark and a preserved window into the home life of Jackson. Many may be familiar with Jackson from his role in the War of 1812, his stint as president and his appearance on the $20 bill, but a tour of the massive estate provides a more up-close-and-personal look. Along the guided tour you'll see the main house, plus have (unguided) access to the garden, the quarters where enslaved people lived, Jackson's tomb and the Old Hermitage Church. 

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

U.S. News Insider Tip: While the blooms may fade in colder weather, the grounds are just as stunning when covered in mums and pumpkins each fall and draped in one million dazzling lights each holiday season. – Kellie Walton

Art aficionados and nature lovers alike should plan on making a stop at the Cheekwood Estate & Gardens. With its greenhouses, sculpture trail and chromatic flower display, the 55-acre Botanical Garden offers sanctuary from downtown's bustle. In fact, the garden comprises multiple distinct gardens, including one dedicated to boxwoods, another focused on dogwoods, a rose garden, a Japanese garden, an herb garden and one intended to inspire writing that features a small amphitheater for literary events. The on-site art museum is just as striking. Housed in the original Georgian-style Cheek family mansion, the museum boasts an impressive collection of 19th- and 20th-century American paintings as well as antique furniture, photographs, prints, sculpture and artifacts from around the world.

Fifth + Broadway Fifth + Broadway free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Prolific restaurateur Sam Fox debuted a multistory restaurant concept that connects to Fifth + Broadway. Keep your eyes peeled for a hidden door on the street level that leads to an underground margarita bar, Pushing Daisies. – Kellie Walton

Broadway is one of Nashville’s top destinations, made even more desirable through the addition of the city’s largest mixed-use development, Fifth + Broadway. From retail shops to restaurants and residential space, Fifth and Broadway offers a plethora of options adjacent to Music City’s famed honky-tonk bars. Stroll the outdoor plaza to shop at retailers like Apple, Tecovas, Free People, and locally-loved boutiques like REVV and The Nash Collection, then stop for a pick-me-up at Elixr Coffee Roasters or Jeni’s for a sweet treat. 

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Radnor Lake State Park Radnor Lake State Park free

Though Nashville is a bustling metropolis, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors right on the outskirts of town. Located less than 15 miles south of downtown, Radnor Lake State Park is a calm and serene getaway for those looking to go for a walk and observe nature. The 1,368-acre park features a variety of plants and animals, including owls, waterfowl and herons. Plus, there are numerous jogging, hiking and biking trails in the park, many of which provide impressive lake views. If you're looking to learn more about local birds in the area, check out the Barbara J. Mapp Aviary Education Center for interactive displays, ranger-led programs and panoramic views of the surrounding hillside.

Parkgoers say they loved going on peaceful walks in this park and were astonished at the amount of wildlife they saw. Some people advise getting there early to get parking if you drive.

The Johnny Cash Museum The Johnny Cash Museum

Uncover the enigma behind "The Man in Black" with a visit to The Johnny Cash Museum. The museum boasts the world's largest collection of Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia, including items from the film "Walk the Line" (which is about Cash's life), handwritten notes and letters penned by Cash and costumes worn during his career. Exhibits spotlight different periods in Cash's life, including his years in the Air Force, his marriage to June Carter and his famous prison concert tour. And because the museum is officially endorsed by the Cash family, you can bet you'll stumble across other personal mementos not available to the public anywhere else, like a stone wall excavated from Johnny and June's Hendersonville house.

Fans love the wealth of information on display at this museum. Not much of a Cash devotee? Museumgoers say you should still make time to visit. Some warn, however, that it can get crowded. Others complain that admission fees were too high for the small museum.

Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery

U.S. News Insider Tip: The historic home tour is worth the trip, and be sure to allow time to visit the winery for a tasting. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Belle Meade, which sits 8 miles southwest of downtown Nashville, offers a look into the lives of Tennesseans throughout the 1800s. The Greek revival-style mansion was built in 1853 and 1854 and is centrally located on the historic site's 32 acres of manicured grounds. Guides offer tours of the mansion's interior. 

Nashville Bus Tours Nashville Bus Tours

Bus tours offer almost effortless means of taking in what Nashville has to offer, whether you simply want to see the city's top attractions or have specific interests, such as music, comedy, celebrities or a certain adult beverage. Here are some to consider:

Old Town Trolley Tours – Nashville Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour: Explore the sights and sounds of Nashville at your own pace on this hop-on hop-off excursion. Vehicles stop at 13 prime attractions, including the Country Music Hall of Fame , Ryman Auditorium , Belmont Mansion and Centennial Park . Tours feature live commentary. They occur daily between 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets cost about $55 for single-day tours. You may be able to score discounted tickets if you book online in advance. Riders say this tour offers a great way to learn about the city and praise its knowledgeable, entertaining guides.

Arrington Vineyards Arrington Vineyards

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you’re a fan of Arrington Vineyards, join Kix’s Wine Club to receive select bottles quarterly (with shipping available), and unlock discounts and special pricing for your next visit to the grounds. – Kellie Walton

Nestled in a south Nashville small town, Arrington Vineyards is a stunning winery co-owned by Kip Summers and country music star Kix Brooks (formerly of Brooks and Dunn). The rustic retreat boasts a primary farmhouse for wine tastings and multiple retail areas to grab a bottle or a flight of the brand’s signature wines, which range from red blends to white varietals and sparkling wine. Arrington Vineyards also offers a rotating seasonal frosé, which is especially refreshing during scorching Tennessee summers. 

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Belmont Mansion Belmont Mansion

If you love history or art, make time for a tour of Belmont Mansion – the largest house museum in Nashville. This Italian-style villa was constructed in the 1850s for Adelicia Acklen, one of the wealthiest women in the country at the time and, according to some, Nashville's own Scarlett O'Hara. Although it was originally built to be a summer home, the mansion was quite stately and featured an art gallery, a bowling alley, a zoo and gardens. A tour of the approximately 20,000-square-foot mansion leads visitors through rooms ornately decorated with 19th-century antiques and lavish art.

Visitors praise the nicely preserved interior and knowledgeable docents stationed throughout the mansion. However, some visitors felt their guides did not spend enough time acknowledging the backbreaking work of the property's enslaved workers, who, along with European immigrant servants, built and maintained this opulent mansion. Unfortunately, many physical remnants of the enslaved people at Belmont Mansion were destroyed over the course of history, but you can still learn some information about some of the property's enslaved families on the Belmont Mansion website .  

The Parthenon The Parthenon

Nashville is a city of many nicknames and most of them have to do with music. Still, the city is also known as the "Athens of the South" thanks to the numerous higher education institutions established there. This identity is reinforced with the Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the one found in Athens . Although Nashville's Parthenon was only meant to be temporary – it was built for the Tennessee Centennial Exposition in 1897 – it has since become a beloved attraction, housing models of the statues found in the original structure as well as an impressive art collection. Travelers praise the well-kept grounds, peaceful atmosphere and magnificent building, recommending an evening visit to see it illuminated. Others rave about the fascinating exhibits and love the giant statue of Athena.

Located in Centennial Park about 2 miles west of Music Row , the Parthenon is open every day, though hours can vary by the week and the season. Check its website before you visit for current hours. Admission costs $10 for adults and $8 for seniors (older than 62) and children ages 4 to 17. However, you can tour the exterior of the building and its grounds for free.

John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Grab your camera (or phone) and walk this picturesque bridge, stopping midway for a fantastic selfie with the Nashville skyline. If it looks familiar, it's likely because many music videos have utilized the vantage point from this spot. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Formerly called the Shelby Street Pedestrian Bridge (and before that, the Sparkman Street Bridge), the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge – which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places – was built from 1907 through 1909. It was constructed to connect downtown Nashville to the suburbs of East Nashville. Designed by Howard M. Jones, the chief office engineer of the Nashville, Chattanooga, and St. Louis Railway, the bridge contains 48 spans, including four steel trusses and two reinforced concrete trusses. They're the only concrete trusses to be known of in Tennessee. In 1998, the city stopped allowing vehicles on the bridge due to its poor condition, and in 2003 it was restored and became a pedestrian-only walkway. There is also 15-foot-wide central bike lane in the middle of the bridge. Pedestrians can stop and relax at one of four overlooks along the bridge, which offer panoramic views of Nashville to the north and south. 

Music Row Music Row free

With record companies, recording studios, music publishers and related organizations as well as the Historic RCA Studio B , Music Row stands as the center of Nashville's storied music industry. In addition to the sites where musical history was made, this area southwest of downtown also has plenty of eateries and shops.

Music Row may not be as flashy or brassy as Broadway , but the area is a must-see destination for music lovers. Because the neighborhood is comparatively nondescript, many travelers recommend taking a guided tour to learn the history of the area. Several of the best tours in Nashville visit Music Row.

Tennessee State Museum Tennessee State Museum free

Located in downtown Nashville next to the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park and the Nashville Farmers' Market, the Tennessee State Museum preserves the unique and storied history of the Volunteer State. The large museum showcases permanent exhibits that display the heritage of Tennessee's natural history; Native American history; military and sporting history; and Civil War history. Plus, there are rotating temporary cultural and art exhibits on display as well. Several attractions at this museum specifically cater to children. The museum's Children's Gallery is specifically geared toward kids aged 3 to 8. In addition, the museum hosts many events and educational programs on-site throughout the year.

Museumgoers say the exhibits are well organized and highly informative. Many also appreciate the free admission.

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Nashville Zoo at Grassmere Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

If you're an animal lover or in the mood for a family outing, then the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is an excellent spot to visit. The zoo boasts more than 325 different animal species and more than 3,000 animals, including clouded leopards, monkeys, meerkats, red pandas, white rhinoceroses, alligators and anacondas. Plus, there are fish and bird exhibits showcasing both local wildlife and exotic creatures. There are a number of hands-on exhibits that are popular among kids, including the Critter Encounters (where you can get up close with various animals), Kangaroo Kickabout (where you can pet kangaroos) and Lorikeet Landing (where you can see Australian parrots and feed them for a small fee). What's more, the zoo also features a historic home and garden, a zip line, a 4D theater, an animal-themed carousel and a Wilderness Express Train.

Recent visitors were impressed with this zoo, with many reviewers complimenting the well-designed and well-kept facilities. Several families recommend this attraction when visiting Nashville with kids because of its various on-site activities.

Adventure Science Center Adventure Science Center

Take a break from history and country music and treat your kids to some hands-on educational entertainment. Interactive displays at the Adventure Science Center allow little ones to learn about science, from how beekeepers do their jobs to what goes on thousands of light-years above our heads. Kids can learn what it takes to become an astronaut and use an augmented reality mirror to get a peek at what their muscles and bones look like. Regular demonstrations and crafts further keep children engaged and shows in the planetarium are entertaining for the whole family. The facility also features a flight simulator. Museumgoers say this is a must for kids, as the facility has plenty of activities to keep children interested. They also laud the friendly staff. However, some say the exhibits could be better maintained.

Located almost 3 miles south of downtown Nashville, the Adventure Science Center is open Monday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with extended hours to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Adults pay $22; youths ages 2 to 12 enter for $18 and children younger than 2 get in for free. Admission to the planetarium and certain simulation activities costs extra. Free parking is available. For more information about the exhibits and upcoming events, visit the Adventure Science Center website .

Frist Art Museum Frist Art Museum

Located in a gorgeous 1930s art deco building that was once the city's main post office, the Frist Art Museum offers an ever-changing set of exhibitions, covering everything from paintings to sculptures to photography. Past exhibits have featured European armor, works of Albrecht Dürer and Picasso's renderings of the human form. Artwork by local artists and students are regularly in rotation as well. The museum runs programs, talks and activities to complement the exhibits. Families will want to make sure to visit the Martin ArtQuest Gallery, which offers interactive stations and creative hands-on learning. Recent visitors say even if you are not a big art lover, seeing the building alone is worth a visit. Multiple travelers were disappointed by how small the traveling exhibitions are. Many observe that staff members are friendly and knowledgeable.

Located downtown, the museum is just a few blocks from the Country Music Hall of Fame . The museum opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 5:30 p.m. Thursday through Monday except for Sunday, when it opens at 1 p.m., and Thursday, when it closes at 8 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for seniors and college students. Those 18 and younger can enter for free. Parking in the museum's lot costs $2 per hour. For more information, visit the museum's website .

Shelby Bottoms Nature Center & Greenway Shelby Bottoms Nature Center & Greenway free

Located on an expansive stretch of the Cumberland River about 5 miles east of downtown Nashville, the Shelby Bottoms Nature Center & Greenway is a sprawling green space where visitors can learn about the local landscape and take advantage of outdoor recreation opportunities. When you visit, start at the nature center, where you can view cultural history exhibits and artwork. You can also rent a bicycle from the on-site BCycle station to explore or participate in an environmental education program and learn about things to do on the greenway. The 950-acre Shelby Bottoms Greenway has about 17 miles of unpaved and paved pathways (perfect for strolling and biking) that pass through wetlands, streams, forests and fields.

Parkgoers say the atmosphere is relaxing and quiet; the trail system is easy to follow and clean. Many say cycling is quite fun here. Indeed, Shelby forms part of the 26-mile Music City Bikeway that connects Percy Priest Dam and the Warner Parks. Visitors also report glimpsing deer and other wildlife here.

Soundwaves at Gaylord Opryland Soundwaves at Gaylord Opryland

The Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center stresses that its SoundWaves is an "upscale" water park. The indoor/outdoor facility features a variety of water rides, including a total of 11 slides, and wave pools complemented by music. It also boasts waterfalls, lazy rivers, play structures and a surfing simulator, among other heart-pumping attractions. There is also a splash pad and activity pool for small children. Adults can enjoy two pools all to themselves (one indoor and one outdoor) plus a bar. Cabanas and private party rooms are available for rental. Soundwaves at Gaylord Opryland is also featured in a list of best bachelorette party destinations .

Parkgoers deem this water park exceptionally fun with a great deal to do for people of all ages. It's frequently described as clean and well attended by lifeguards. While the park is open exclusively to those staying in the resort, some say this helps keep it from becoming overcrowded.

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30 Best Things to Do in Nashville, From Civil Rights Exhibits to Live Music

Locals weigh in on how to explore this energetic capital city.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

If Nashville holds a spot on your must-visit list, you’re not alone — in 2022, more than 14 million people made their way to Music City to take in the sights, sounds, and tastes of the cultural hub (and yes, that number includes bachelorette parties ). While Nashville’s reputation as a country music destination precedes itself, there’s more to Tennessee’s capital than the honky tonks on Broadway, the Grand Ole Opry, and The Bluebird Cafe (although travelers should make a point to visit all three). It’s home to top-tier museums, sprawling green spaces, historical markers, and no shortage of places to eat or grab a drink. “The quality of the food and restaurant scene has really exploded over the past 10 years,” says Meredith DiMenna, director of programming for Hutton Hotel and its live music venue, Analog . No matter where you choose to dine in Nashville, your itinerary must include two things: hot chicken and a meal at a meat-and-three (more on that later). “ Prince’s is my go-to for hot chicken, while Puckett’s always impresses with their meat-and-three,” says chef Maneet Chauhan, who owns three restaurants in Nashville: Chauhan Ale & Masala House , Tansuo , and The Mockingbird .  

Famous music sights and non-negotiable Southern dishes will quickly fill up your days and nights over a long weekend getaway, but there’s so much more to discover within the metro area. To help narrow down the list of the best things to do in Nashville, we tapped a few residents, DiMenna and Chauhan included, to share what’s on their “must-do” agenda for anyone spending time in Tennessee’s largest city.  Related : 5 Best Hotels in Nashville

Listen to live music at Robert’s Western World.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

If you can only fit in one stop along Nashville’s famed Honky Tonk Highway, make sure it’s Robert’s Western World . “You can’t beat the traditional country music every night there,” says Stephen Rose, founder of The Peach Truck . If you’re feeling a bit peckish, order a fried bologna sandwich to go with your cold beer.

Have a meal at a meat-and-three.

This Southern food concept is straightforward: Pick your meat and your three sides. “[Meat-and-threes] used to be pretty much the only food in Nashville, before it became the food Mecca it is today. There are so many good places that offer this, [but] I’m partial to Martin’s BBQ ,” says DiMenna.

Snap a photo in front of a mural.

Jason Kempin/Getty Images

You’ve probably seen one of Nashville’s many murals on Instagram, but nothing compares to seeing them in real life. Get a picture with artist Kim Radford’s Dolly Parton in East Nashville, or line up in front of the black-and-white “Nashville Looks Good on You” mural in 12South. No matter which neighborhoods you visit, you’ll probably run into one of the city’s many large-scale creations.

Get tickets for a show at The Bluebird Cafe.

Robert Alexander/Getty Images

You never know who will stop by The Bluebird Cafe to play a few songs — Maren Morris, LeAnn Rimes, and Taylor Swift among them. The listening room only has 90 seats, so it’s an intimate and special experience for both the performers and the audience. “It’s such a great spot for a date night, girls’ night, etc., and you could be watching the next biggest country music superstar,” says chef Chauhan.

Tour the Civil Rights Room at the Nashville Public Library.

Paul Natkin/Getty Images

The Civil Rights Movement in Nashville, which took place during the 1950s and 60s, is well documented inside the Nashville Public Library. Powerful photographs showcase the work and events that eventually led to desegregation, and there’s also a symbolic lunch counter, where you can read the Ten Rules of Conduct carried by the protesters during the sit-ins.

Walk around one of Nashville’s many public parks.

Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure

In between meals, you may want to get your steps in, and there are myriad ways to do so. “When visiting, you must walk across the [John Seigenthaler] Pedestrian Bridge, and check out Nashville’s selection of public parks,” says DiMenna. Centennial Park and Bicentennial Park are two of the more well-known spots, but there’s also Shelby Park, Percy Warner Park, and Cumberland Park. “It’s easy to forget that there is a lot of nature in Nashville, and if the weather is right — don’t try this when it’s super hot — you can get the feeling of being on a true nature walk while you’re still within city limits,” she adds.

Snack on a donut from Five Daughters Bakery.

Courtesy of Five Daughters Bakery

If you have a sweet tooth, schedule a trip to Five Daughters Bakery . There are several locations around Nashville, but the 12South store might be the most picturesque. Once you’ve acquired a donut or two, you can take an Instagram-worthy photo in front of the iconic “I Heart Donuts” mural.

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

To truly understand Nashville and its role in music over the years, you must visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and its extensive collections. “In a stroll through the galleries, [you will] experience everything from Thomas Heart Benton’s The Sources of Country Music painting and Elvis Presley’s 1960 Gold Cadillac to the American Currents: The State of the Music exhibit, which takes a broad look at the genre’s contributions to art and life across the last year,” explains Lisa Purcell, executive vice president of external affairs for the museum.

Get a taste of hot chicken.

rez-art/Getty Images

Have a cold glass of sweet tea on standby when dining on hot chicken, especially if you’re sensitive to a bit of heat. “Hot chicken is obviously a must in Nashville, and my go-to is Bolton’s in East Nashville. You can’t ever have a bad experience there,” says Rose.

Shop around 12South.

Courtesy of Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp.

One of the more walkable areas in Nashville, the 12South neighborhood is filled with coffee shops, bakeries, and boutique stores. Imogene + Willie is known for denim pieces, and White’s Mercantile, owned by Holly Williams, is billed as a “general store for the modern tastemaker.”

Pick up local produce at a Nashville farmers’ market.

Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

If you want to experience Nashville as the locals do, head to one of its many farmers’ markets. “I recommend 12 South Farmers Market in beautiful Sevier Park on Tuesday nights and Richland Park Farmers’ Market on Saturday mornings,” says chef Tony Mantuano, who, along with his wife Cathy, guides the food and beverage program at The Joseph, a Luxury Collection Hotel.

See a show at the Grand Ole Opry.

Self-described as the “home of country music,” the weekly live country music radio broadcast has been around since 1925. From 1974 on, it’s been housed in the Opry House, where acts ranging from up-and-comers to big names play multiple nights a week. If you want backstage access before the show, be sure to book a tour in advance.

Book a stay at one of Nashville’s best hotels.

A tourist destination as large as Nashville must meet demand with a variety of accommodation options. Choose from luxurious newcomers like Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Nashville and Conrad Nashville , or veer more toward boutique hotels — Graduate Nashville , Hutton Hotel, Bobby Hotel , and Urban Cowboy are all great choices. The latter, according to Rose, is also ideal for pizza and cocktails. “The vibe is always super on point, with the location housed in a gorgeous mansion in East Nashville,” he adds.

Bowl a few games at Pinewood Social.

A night out in Nashville doesn’t have to include fighting the crowds along Broadway. Instead, you can opt for dinner, drinks, and bowling at Pinewood Social . The six lanes made of reclaimed wood are open seven days a week, and ball and shoe rentals are included.

Buy a pair of cowboy boots.

When in Nashville, right? There are several places to purchase your own pair of boots, including Boot Country , Nashville Boot Co. , and Betty Boots . If you want an extra-luxe experience, custom boot fittings are offered in the VIP loft at Lucchese . “Guests of The Joseph have unique access to schedule a custom fitting at the Lucchese store in The Gulch. Guided by their experts, [you] choose [the] style, materials, shape — everything from toe to heel,” says chef Mantuano.

Pose in front of The Parthenon.

Bruce Yuanyue Bi/Getty Images

Photo ops are widely available in Nashville, but The Parthenon might be one of the more impressive ones. “The Parthenon in Centennial Park is a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, and it's so unique and stunning to see,” says chef Chauhan.

Get your biscuit fix at The Loveless Cafe.

Courtesy of Loveless Cafe

Biscuits are par for the course in the South, so you can’t leave Nashville without having one or two for breakfast. The Loveless Cafe has been serving its famous biscuits to Nashvillians and visitors since 1951; try them with country ham, fruit preserves, or the red-eye gravy.

Explore the National Museum of African American Music.

The National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) opened in early 2021, preserving and celebrating the Black music experience across genres. Interactive technology lives alongside artifacts, memorabilia, and clothing to create six engaging exhibits that highlight the history of hip-hop, gospel, blues, jazz, R&B, spirituals, and more. “This is the newest edition to the music museums, and it is absolutely incredible. You can spend hours in here if you’re a music fan,” says DiMenna.

Make a souvenir at Hatch Show Print.

Jackson Vance/Travel + Leisure

Part of the Country Music Hall of Fall and Museum, Hatch Show Print has been creating designs and show posters with its vintage type and hand-carved imagery since 1879. Visitors can stop by to learn more about the letterpress print and design shop or they can opt to make something themselves. “Advance book your slot in hands-on workshops, called Block Parties, which invite participants to use some of Nashville’s most recognized imagery to make Hatch Show Prints of their own,” says Purcell.

Swing by the Nashville Zoo.

Misty Mullican/Getty Images

“The Nashville Zoo is a great place to visit for the day, [and it's] enjoyed by both adults and children,” says chef Chauhan. The expansive zoo has more than 3,000 animals and hosts programming that includes overnight camping experiences, classes, and more.

Karaoke at Santa’s Pub.

For more than a decade, Santa’s Pub has been welcoming guests 21 and over for cold beer and karaoke. Like many things in Nashville, it’s something you have to see to believe. “Sunday night at Santa’s Pub. Just trust me,” says Rose.

Stroll around Lower Broad in the evening.

The Lower Broad section of the Broadway Historic District has a variety of sights and sounds to experience. Along with Robert’s Western World, you’ll find Tootsies Orchid Lounge , Legends Corner , and Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row . “It captures the pulse of the city, and you get to see and hear so many amazingly talented musicians,” says chef Chauhan.

Go for a hike at Radnor Lake.

“Radnor Lake is a thing of beauty — our family loves to enjoy great hikes, beautiful scenery, wildlife, and more here, and it’s only minutes away from downtown Nashville,” says Rose. The state park boasts over 1,300 acres of nature preserve, and the Lake Trail is accessible for those with all-terrain wheelchairs.

See a performance at Ryman Auditorium.

Chef Mantuano says that seeing a show at the Ryman is a “truly religious experience.” Known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” the Ryman has more than 2,300 seats and has hosted acts like Elvis, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Lizzo, and Harry Styles over the last 130 years. To immerse yourself in this landmark’s history, take a tour (either guided or self-guided) through the venue.

Spend a day at Cheekwood.

Depending on the season and the weather, Cheekwood Estate and Gardens is the perfect place to explore with the whole family. The 1930s estate includes a 30,000-square-foot mansion and 55 acres of gardens. Visitors can purchase tickets to access the botanical garden, arboretum, and museum, and there’s also a 1.5-mile woodland trail with outdoor sculptures.

Attend CMA Fest.

Larry McCormack/ABC via Getty Images

“ CMA Fest , which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023, is the largest and longest-running country music festival in the world,” says Purcell. Recent performers have included Darius Rucker, Luke Combs, Lainey Wilson, and BRELAND. The 2024 festival will be held June 6 through June 9.

Catch one of the rotating exhibits at the Frist Art Museum.

Housed in a building that formerly served as the city’s main post office, the Frist Art Museum has no permanent collection, and its mission is to “inspire people through art to look at their world in new ways.” “This is a really approachable yet super high-quality museum. They do a great job of mixing internationally known selections with local artists,” says DiMenna.

Learn about Nashville’s recording history at RCA Studio B.

RCA Studio B , described by Purcell as a “time capsule and working studio,” is a Nashville music staple, known for its role in making Nashville the recording center it is today. A guided tour allows you to see where the “Nashville Sound” came to be, and where country and pop stars like Dolly Parton, Charlie Pride, Waylon Jennings, and Elvis once recorded some of music’s most iconic songs.

Browse the Fisk University Galleries.

Travelers interested in American art and American history should make a point to visit Fisk University, Nashville’s historically Black university. The Fisk University Galleries — including the Carl Van Vechten Gallery and the Aaron Douglas Gallery — showcase pieces by Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keefe, and Diego Rivera, among other artists.

Hear the Nashville Symphony.

Music comes in all forms in Nashville. If your tastes lean more classical than country, listening to the Nashville Symphony at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center may be more up your alley. “The building is an architectural gem with incredible acoustics, and the musicians are among the world’s best,” says chef Mantuano.

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Nashville

By Margaret Littman

Music City is a quirky place: It's a big place with a small-town feel—a little bit country, a little bit rock and roll, if you will. That makes for an all-encompassing list of things to do in Nashville. The music scene here obviously draws both travelers and aspiring song writers alike, and Honky Tonk Row beckons with ‘round the clock live shows and cheap beer in plastic cups. But don’t forget to venture off of Broadway—way off Broadway. Look around and you'll find a burgeoning art community, eclectic indie boutiques, and a food scene that has grown immensely from its local Southern roots and into one of America's most exciting dining destinations. Tick as many of these places as you can off your list if you want to feel the real heart and soul of this city: These are the best things to do in Nashville on your next visit.

Click the link to read our complete Nashville city guide .

Hatch Show Print Arrow

Part of the Country Music Hall of Fame, Hatch Show Print has been churning out show posters for some of Nashville’s biggest venues and most celebrated artists for more than 140 years. The shop still prints more than 500 posters per year, but visitors can also snatch up a token of Nashville history in the form of replica vintage posters like the one founder William Hatch made for the Grand Ole Opry in 1941. It's not just a place to pick up souvenirs, though. Temporary exhibitions and displays of archival posters are in rotation, and real letterpress geeks can sign up for tours and workshops. Ultimately, the crowd is pretty touristy, but there are plenty of locals who have a piece of Hatch history in their homes.

National Museum of African American Music Arrow

NMAAM covers the whole of the Black music experience. The collection, which includes audio and video files, costumes, posters, instruments, photographs and more, is organized by genre and chronology. The material is designed to be interactive, and visitors can see where musicians got their influences and then who influenced them. The museum goes in-depth, covering both well-known performers and those whose names are otherwise lost to history. The entire collection is permanent, but because so much of it is how you interact with it—do you try to record your own song, listen to different artists—it never feels like the same place twice. And as the cornerstone of the mammoth Fifth + Broadway complex (a destination in and of itself with restaurants, live music venues, and shops), it still never feels crowded thanks to timed ticketing. 

Arnold's Country Kitchen Arrow

Yes, Arnold's Country Kitchen is essentially a glorified cafeteria—albeit, one with a James Beard Classic award ( one of two in the city ). Expansions have somewhat shortened the long lines, but because everyone in town, from musicians to politicians to tourists, eats here, expect to wait for the Southern-style "meat ‘n’ three." For decades, Arnold's was only open for weekday lunch, but it now has dinner hours (the popular Arnold’s After Dark), weekend hours, and even a new bar. Whether you're a born-and-bred Tennessean or a Southern-food novice, the meat ‘n’ three is a rite of passage.

Frist Art Museum Arrow

Nashville had a dearth of art museums, but the Frist—which opened in 2001 in a stately Art Deco building that was once the city's main post office—helped fill that void. The art museum has no permanent collection, so you never know what will be on view—and that's why locals love it. The exhibits run the gamut, from vintage automobiles to Japanese art to relics from the Houghton Hall country estate in England . Each one is thoughtfully laid out in a well-illuminated gallery space and there's also a free music show, Music at the Frist, about once a month.

Jessica Puckett

Hannah Towey

RCA Studio B Arrow

Everyone from Elvis Presley to Roy Orbison and Carrie Underwood have laid down tracks at this historic recording studio, now a museum operated by the Country Music Hall of Fame. The only way to visit Studio B is on a guided tour, hosted hourly from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. It's a tourist hotspot though, so don't be surprised to see some Elvis diehards who drove over from Graceland in Memphis. It's a whirlwind glimpse of Nashville's music scene , and you'll be sure to leave feeling that Music City magic.

The Station Inn Arrow

The Station Inn isn't just Nashville's best bluegrass club; rather, it's the country's best. If you want to hear fast pickin', down-home excitement every night, played by many of the genre’s best musicians, high-tail it here. The drinks are cheap, and the cinder-block building might not gleam like its high-rise neighbors, but everything about the Station Inn is true-blue Music City. You never know who will show up for the Sunday Bluegrass jam, but you do know it’ll be a night to remember. Come and explore the Nashville music scene beyond the honky tonks.

Civil Rights Room at the Nashville Public Library Arrow

Tucked away on the second floor of the main downtown public library, the Civil Rights Room honors Nashville's role in a seminal period of American history. The collection here includes photographs of school desegregation, sit-ins, and marches. A circular table is symbolic of the lunch counters where  college students sat, peacefully protested, and demanded change. The table is engraved with the 10 rules of conduct set out for sit-in participants. The centerpiece of the room is a glass inscription by Martin Luther King, Jr., who visited the city in 1960. Across the hall, you’ll find the  Votes for Women room, a similar tribute to Tennessee’s role in the passage of the 19 th amendment. Browse hear to see propaganda, posters and photos from the divisive time in America’s history a century ago. 

Robert’s Western World Arrow

Lower Broadway is lined with honky tonks, all-day and all-night watering holes, and dance halls that make Nashville Music City. While some have expanded into bachelorette -pleasing cover bands and rock sing-a-longs, Robert’s Western World has remained a legit place to hear Western swing from the best musicians in the city. Come here to kick up your heels, drink PBR, eat a fried bologna sandwich, and have a good time. It’s perfectly acceptable to wander from stage to stage (Layla’s Honky Tonk, the only woman-owned bar on Lower Broad, is another good choice.) As is the case at all honky tonks, don't forget to tip—both your server and the band.

Jefferson Street Sound Museum Arrow

A small house-turned-museum on one of Nashville’s most historic streets, the Jefferson Street Sound Museum sort of looks and feels like you're in someone’s house with their chock-full music collection… because it sort of is. Lorenzo Washington took over the former home and converted two stories into a museum with exhibits based largely around his own collection of artifacts. This museum is oft-overlooked by visitors to Nashville, perhaps because it's small and it is only open one day a week (otherwise, you can come by appointment). But just walking in the front door makes you feel like an insider privy to the secrets of Jefferson Street’s musical legacy.  Much of the signage is handwritten, and going through with Washington as guide is really the only way to understand what’s what. Items on display include many, many autographed photos, instruments, costumes, sheet music, and playbills. The emphasis is on Nashville’s Black music scene from 1940 to 1970, from Jimi Hendrix to Marion James.

Backstage Nashville at 3rd & Lindsley Arrow

Like many time-loved Nashville venues, 3rd & Lindsley is nondescript. From the outside it looks like the DMV, and inside it's basic square tables and ladder-back chairs. All the lighting and sound mechanics are unhidden, but it has good sound and a stage visible from almost any spot on both floors of the bar—and that’s what matters here. If you want to understand Nashville's music, Backstage Nashville's focus on the singer-songwriter is the place to do it.  The weekly event takes place from 12:30 p.m.–2:30 p.m. on Saturdays. Kids of all ages are welcome, and it's the perfect place to expose them to Nashville music without all the age inappropriateness of Lower Broad.

Lane Motor Museum Arrow

This is not your normal museum . The idea behind the private Lane Motor Museum is to display vehicles from Europe, Asia, and North and South America from the 1920s to present day. Every vehicle is in working order and there are more than 150 cars, motorcycles, even some amphibious vehicles. Even if you've been before, you might want to return. The collection rotates; you can see something today that wasn’t shown last week. Labels explain each car's significance, and visitors can peer into the garages where the museum's ongoing restoration efforts take place. 

Carl Van Vechten Gallery Arrow

The Van Vechten Gallery at Fisk University, the historically Black university on the city’s north side, has a world-class collection of art that once belonged to photographer and art promoter Alfred Stieglitz. Stieglitz’s wife, Georgia O’Keeffe, donated a portion of this collection to Fisk on his death. Fisk and the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas, now take turns exhibiting the collection in its entirety, with it moving back and forth every two years. It is amazing to think about the foresight Stieglitz had when he compiled this collection, with works by Pablo Picasso, Paul Cézanne, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Diego Rivera, Arthur Dove, Gino Severini, and Charles Demuth. When the collection is at Crystal Bridges, though, it's still worth visiting the Van Vechten to see exhibits like its impressive Harlem Renaissance collection.

Grand Ole Opry Arrow

Chances are, you've heard of The Grand Ole Opry, and with good reason. The historic live broadcast changed locations a few times and moved to its current location—and first dedicated space—at the Opry House in 1974, after more than 30 years as a resident of the Ryman Auditorium . Famously, it has no bad seats, balcony, or floor. The biggest names in country music headline and even make surprise appearances here regularly, but it's still open to fresh up-and-coming talent. To get the full depth and breadth of the Opry experience, book one of the backstage tours before you see a show. They’re chockful of facts and artifacts.

Plaza Mariachi Music City Arrow

Every day is different at Plaza Mariachi, a buzzing gathering place that had a former life as a Kroger grocery store. It's a bit different than some of Nashville's music venues . Mariachi bands and DJ shows are a sure bet, often accompanied by silk dancers. But you may also catch salsa dancing classes, mariachis playing Rocky Top, big-name Latinx stars, guitarists, kids’ shows, and more. The shows are always hopping, so you don't need to seek a specific one. Just come because you have some free time and you're looking for good energy and live music.

Silver Sands Cafe Arrow

Even more than hot chicken, Nashville is known for the meat-and-three–a cafeteria-style diner where you order one meat and three sides. And for more than 70 years Silver Sands has been a Nashville meat-and-three soul food institution. It is nothin’ fancy inside or out, and that utilitarian time-loved ambiance fits the place. The food, made daily by Sophia Vaughn, changes based on the day of the week; meatloaf on Wednesdays and barbecue chicken on Thursdays, for example, and each day includes several lunch options. At breakfast, biscuit sandwiches are built to order, as are pancakes, bacon and other classics. While the word is out among visitors who travel for good food, the majority of customers lining up for breakfast and lunch are locals. The wait can be long, but the vibe is convivial and you'll get to know your neighbors. Nothing here is fancily plated or garnished—it's just classic, delicious eats.

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Nashville Bucket List: 30 Fun Things to do Downtown & Beyond

What comes to mind when you hear the city of Nashville? That’s right, country music! Many famous musicians and top artists have been Tennessee born and jump-started their musical careers here, which is why the city is also aptly known as Music City.

But that is not all the city has to offer, mind you. In fact, there are plenty of fun things to do in Nashville. From visiting the Grand Ole Opry to eating authentic Southern food to going out for some honky-tonkin’ in downtown Nashville, we’ll be listing the best experiences you’ll be ticking off your bucket list on your journey around Music City.

Best Attractions & Fun Things to in Nashville (Downtown & Beyond)

1. adventure science center of nashville.

If you love science or have kids with you, then definitely check out Adventure Science Center . It is a non-profit science museum aimed towards children and features over 175 hands-on interactive exhibits. They span different themes like biology, physics, visual perception, audio listening, and much more.

The building is jam-packed with many fascinating exhibits in a 44,000 square feet space, like the full-motion simulator, Physics of Flight, Galactic Gardens, and more.

There is also the Adventure Tower, where there are fun activities for people of all ages, such as the Televator and Walk-in Guitar/Piano. At the Observation Deck, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the city.

Last but not least, is the 63-foot dome theater Sudekum Planetarium, which features planetarium shows, laser shows, concerts, and Yoga Under The Stars.

2. Buy a Pair of Cowboy Boots

Nothing beats going about the streets of Nashville in style with a good pair of cowboy boots. 

Whether it is for fashion or just something to remember your visit to Nashville by, there are plenty of shops selling authentic cowboy boots around, like Nashville Boot Co. , Lucchese Bootmaker , and Goodbuy Girls .

3. Catch a Game at First Horizon Park

If you want to catch some live baseball or soccer games, look no further than First Horizon Park in downtown Nashville. It is also home to the local Nashville Sounds Baseball Club.

One of the highlights of the baseball park is the massive guitar-shaped scoreboard. Another highlight is an outdoor restaurant located at the right-field concourse known as The Band Box. Aside from food, they also have several fun entertainment options like ping pong, corn hole, foosball, shuffleboard, and more.

Of course, there are also concession stands and portable carts around that offer traditional ballpark foods like hot dogs, pizza, and nachos. You can also try their local Nashville hot chicken and pulled pork sandwich!

4. Crash the Bluebird Café

There is another place in Nashville where numerous talents like Taylor Swift, Kathy Mattea, Garth Brooks, and more had career-defining moments.

Enter the Bluebird Café , a music club in Nashville known as a songwriter’s venue, mainly because up-and-coming songwriters have a chance to showcase their original music in the club’s “Writer’s Night” show. There are also performances from special guests, who have made a name for themselves in the music industry.

Whether it be music from fresh new talents to seasoned veterans, a night at this iconic club will surely be an experience you will never forget!

5. Create a Poster Hatch Show Print

Hatch Show Print has been in the letterpress printing business since 1879, having produced posters for anyone who needs quality advertisements, from music shows to shops and the like.

Their traditional way of printing posters is always a fascinating sight to behold. And what better way to see this in action than by going on a tour of their workshop. What’s more, you also get to make your own poster as a souvenir!

6. Do a Tasting at Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery

Nashville is not just home to country music, but it is also home to Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery , one of the most successful distilleries in the United States.

Re-launched by the original owner’s great-great-great grandsons in 2011, they continue to produce Tennessee whiskeys and other spirits that put Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery on the map.

You can visit them at 1414 Clinton Street, where you can book a tour of their history, how they produce the spirits, and of course, tastings of four of their seasonally-selected bottles!

While in there, you can get yourself some of their best drinks like their award-winning original Tennessee whiskey, Belle Meade Bourbon, and Louisa’s Liqueur.

7. Enjoy the Masterpieces at Frist Art Museum

Are you interested in viewing some of the most stunning art you can find in Nashville? Frist Art Museum will surely keep your eyes glued to their exhibitions, with an ever-changing collection of art pieces!

One of its most famous destinations is the award-winning Martin ArtQuest or MAQ Gallery. It is an interactive gallery space with features like art-making stations where you can draw, paint, or make prints, a zoetrope, a shadow theater, stop-motion animation, and much more!

8. Experience Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage

If visiting the residence of a former President is on your bucket list, head to the Hermitage. Andrew Jackson, former President of the United States owned the Hermitage plantation and lived there occasionally. 

You can take a self-guided tour of the over 1000 acre estate to see the Greek revival style mansion, grounds, exhibits, log cabin, other historic structures, and more. Or choose from one of the guided tours to get a deeper understanding. You can also explore the grounds on a wagon tour from April to October weather permitting.

Book your ticket in advancer here: Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage Grounds Pass

9. Explore Radnor Lake State Park

If you are an outdoorsy person, you will surely enjoy a trip to Radnor Lake State Park! From boating to camping to hiking to rock climbing and so much more, you’ll never run out of fun activities in its 1,368-acre space.

There are various sections of trails through the woods around the lake. On a hike, you can experience the area’s serenity and see lovely flora and fauna. The lake is also home to several birds, especially duck species like the ring-necked duck and American wigeon.

You can stop at the visitor center for information relating to the park, open from Thursday to Monday. Alternatively, you can also check out their official website .

10. Find Your Favorite Mural

Wandering the streets of Nashville is both a surprising and fulfilling experience thanks to the many murals you can find around. Not only are they fascinating to look at, but they are also perfect for posing for your Instagram photos!

One of the most popular ones is the I Believe in Nashville, a series of painted murals around the city by Adrien Saporiti which started in 2012. Another one is the WhatLifts YouWings, a pair of white lace wings on a black wall by Kelsey Montague.

With more than 100 murals in the city , which one of these will be your favorite, and how many will you find? 

11. Get Lost in the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Discover the history of country music, and see unique exhibits including sound recordings, musical instruments, archival videos, items used by famous artists, and more at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum .

The museum aims to preserve and interpret American vernacular music and honors both legends and contemporary artists. Temporary exhibits too are on display.

I enjoyed looking at the clothing/costumes worn by country music performers, including Jim Reeves, Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, and others. And, oh, don’t miss Elvis’ shiny 1960 “Solid Gold” Cadillac, one of the many iconic vehicles in the museum!

Book your ticket in advance here: RCA Studio B & Country Music Hall of Fame Combo

12. Get Some Princes Hot Chicken

Home of the original hot chicken! Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack has been serving its signature dish since 1945 and has become a favorite among Nashvillians. It is also credited for popularizing hot chicken, which inspired restaurants with similar cuisine.

Known for Nashville’s unique deep-fried poultry specialty, this chicken comes in 8 different flavors, ranging from plain to XXX Hot! Served with your choice of sides and drinks (they also have beer), it will leave you and your mouth burning hot inside!

13. Get Treats at Goo Goos

Are you tired of the usual plain treats that can’t seem to satisfy your sweet tooth? Then get your hands on some Goo Goo Clusters!

But what makes a Goo Goo Cluster a Goo Goo Cluster? As you may have probably guessed from the name, it is a cluster of several types of candy into one: marshmallow nougat, caramel, and roasted peanuts covered in milk chocolate. Together, they make up the Goo Goo Cluster that everyone loves and enjoys!

Goo Goos also offer candy-making classes, where you get to learn about its history and how they make them, as well as getting a taste of your very own Goo Goo Cluster!

For more great treats to eat, see our American Candy List that has over 90 great ones (including the Goo Goo Clusters!).

14. Go to the Historic RCA Studio B

Take a visit to the oldest recording studio in Nashville. RCA Studio B became known in the 1960s as the birthplace of the “Nashville Sound,” a music style known by its background vocals and strings. The Country Music Hall of Fame owns the studio and offers scheduled tours of the facilities. You can find the studio in Nashville’s historic Music Row district.

Many legendary musicians have recorded more than 47,000 songs at RCA Studio B. Elvis Presley is also said to have recorded more than 200 songs at this place.

15. Hike at Long Hunter State Park

Long Hunter State Park is another extraordinary place to enjoy the outdoors of Nashville. It is located in Hermitage, a suburb of Nashville. The park is a haven for outdoor activities, including camping, fishing, kayaking, hiking, and much more.

The state park comprises three lake sections; Baker’s Grove in the north, Couchville at the center, and Bryant Grove to the south, all connected by narrow strips of land. Sellars Farm, a state archaeological site near Lebanon to the east, is also under the park’s management.

Speaking of hiking, they have over twelve trails around the park, with varying difficulties. Some of their famous hikes are the Day Loop Trail, Volunteer Trail, and Couchville Lake Loop Trail.

16. Indulge in Southern Comfort Food at Loveless Café

If you want to get a taste of what Nashville is really like, look no further than Loveless Cafe ! Contrary to its namesake, there is nothing you wouldn’t love about its menu (and the cafe itself).

From the buttery biscuits to the country ham to the red-eye gravy and many more, you will see (or rather taste) why they are the go-to place when it comes to Southern cooking.

You will have to be a bit patient about the wait times, but I guarantee that it is well worth it!

17. Johnny Cash Museum and Café

Artifacts, costumes, lyrics written by hand, and musical instruments are just some of the amazing exhibits at the Johnny Cash Museum. It covers the entire graph of his life from his music and tours to his personal life.

18. Learn Tennessee History at the State Museum

Take a look back in time at Tennessee State Museum , located at the corner of Rosa Parks Boulevard and Jefferson Street. The building has a lot of galleries inside, such as the Tennessee Time Tunnel, which shows the state’s history that leads to its permanent collection of artifacts.

There is also a hands-on children’s gallery for the kiddies, six rotating galleries, a digital learning center, and last but not least, a two-story Grand Hall. Best of all, admission is free!

19. Listen to Music on Honky Tonk Highway (Lower Broadway)

Nashville is not known as the Music City for nothing. Those looking to enjoy live music acts at bars can head to Lower Broadway or, as people like to call it, the Honky-Tonk Highway.

A visit here is one of the best fun things to do in Nashville. This four-block stretch has many bars to choose from to enjoy live performances day or night, down a few drinks, and grab a bite.

I would recommend Robert’s Western World for live music and beer. If you like music and a good dance floor, try The Stage as well as Legend’s Corner . If you don’t mind boisterous nighttime crowds, you can stop at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge . As for drinks, you can head to Bootleggers Inn , known for their moonshine bar.

Other great places include The Second Fiddle , Honky Tonk Central , and Layla’s Bluegrass Inn .

20. Ogle the Parthenon

Nashville’s Parthenon can not really compare to the original in Greece, but the full-size replica at the Centennial Park is a good copy. I would definitely recommend it, especially to those who have not visited Greece. It is the prime attraction at the park and houses an art gallery and museum.

A major highlight is the 42-foot indoor statue of Athena Parthenos by Alan LeQuire. There are replicas of other sculptures too from the original structure.

The art gallery has more than 60 paintings by American artists of the 19th and 20th centuries. On an evening visit, you can see the Parthenon in all its illuminated glory.

For an extra bucket list worthy experience take a  Helicopter Tour of Downtown and Music City , which will give you a totally different perspective of the Parthenon.

21. Party on a Pedal Bar Tour

One of the most unique and fun ways to go around Nashville is through a pedal bar tour. Yup, you and your friends will ride a large pedal-powered bar while enjoying a drink and the sights.

While you and your buddies drink away, you might be wondering who will be taking the wheel. Don’t sweat it! Drinking while driving is always a big no-no, so there is a tour guide who controls the steering and braking :) All you guys have to do is pedal and drink!

22. Ride a Mechanical Bull

Ever wanted to try riding a mechanical bull even just once? Good thing you will have the chance to try it in Nashville! There are two bars here that are not just a great place to have karaoke and drinks, they also have mechanical bulls to test out the mettle of would-be riders.

First is the Wild Beaver Saloon —a fun, rowdy bar with a mountain lodge theme, scantily clad waitresses & weekly karaoke.

The other one is Tequila Cowboy , a multi-roomed nightspot with a live music stage, dance club, and game area. They are on Broadway, just a 3-min walk from the Ryman Auditorium.

23. See the Animals at the Nashville Zoo

Nashville Zoo is an excellent spot to visit, especially if you have kids with you. With over 3,000 different species of animals, you’ll have plenty of attractions to enjoy going to, like Critter Encounters, Kangaroo Kickabout, Lorikeet Landing, the Wilderness Express, and more.

You can also visit the Grassmere Historic Home, which is the centerpiece of the place. Here you will learn about the property’s history, see pieces of artifacts, an extensive book collection, and several family portraits.

24. Shop Reese Witherspoon’s Draper James

Draper James is a clothing label started in 2015 by actress Reese Witherspoon that pays homage to her grandparents and her Southern upbringing.

They have a wide selection of clothing, accessories, and home decorations that are also perfect as gifts! You can also get some of their totes, which often feature some slang common to the Southeast United States.

25. Stay at the Gaylord Opryland Resort

Indulge yourself and add more to the Nashville experience by staying at the Gaylord Opryland , one of the 30 largest hotels in the world.

It has everything you would look for at a luxurious hotel; spa, restaurants, bars and shops, water parks, and so much more. Some things you should not miss are the hotel’s Soundwaves water attraction and the indoor Delta River boat tour.

What’s even better is that the Grand Ole Opry is just a stone’s throw away! You can also visit the Madame Tussauds wax museum, just a couple of minutes away from Gaylord Opryland.

26. Take a Tour of Belmont Mansion

Nashville’s Belmont Mansion has a lot of fascinating stories to tell since its completion in 1853. Located at the heart of Belmont University, the mansion has stood the test of time and is standing in all of its glory today.

The mansion also houses a collection of original furniture, paintings, and other art pieces throughout its walls. You will also learn about the history of the place, from the family who inhabited the mansion to the African American slaves and European immigrants who built it to the many historical events that took place there.

Tip: the Nashville Hop-on Hop-off Trolley will make a stop there!

27. Tour The Belle Meade Plantation

Steeped in history, the mansion at the Belle Meade Plantation is now a museum. The property includes a visitor’s center, other structures including a dairy, carriage house, stables, restored slave quarters, and gardens. You can actually see the bullet marks from the Civil War on the columns of the house. 

On a guided tour with costumed guides, you can learn all about the history of this Greek revival style mansion as well as the Harding and Jackson family. The tour ends with wine tasting. Try the Segway guided tour of the 30 acre grounds.

28. Tour the Ryman Auditorium

This auditorium is legendary in country music history, and a tour makes it all clear. Get a glimpse of its roots by watching the story at the ‘Soul of Nashville’. I realized why Ryman Auditorium is such a revered institution. Performers including Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, Hank Williams and others performed live here, in association with the Grand Ole Opry. 

Did you know that the Ryman is the birthplace of bluegrass music? It has also witnessed legends in the making. The auditorium continues to host live performances by contemporary artistes including Luke Combs, Blake Shelton and others. And guess what, you can even record your own song at the Ryman Studio!

29. Visit Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

Cheekwood is a 55-acre botanical garden and art museum located on the historic Cheek estate, just 8 miles southwest of downtown Nashville at 1200 Forrest Park Drive. It was originally built for Leslie and Mabel Cheek in 1929 and now serves as a garden and art museum.

The Cheek family has a vast collection of artwork they have collected since the opening of Cheekwood in 1960, which you can find at the Historic Mansion & Museum. Outdoors, one you should not miss is the Ann & Monroe Carell Jr. Family Sculpture Trail, a collection of contemporary sculptures coming from different artists and countries.

There are also lots (and I mean lots ) of gardens inside Cheekwood, each with its own story to tell. Kids will love playing around in the Bracken Foundation Children’s Garden, between the Frist Learning Center and Howe Garden. Another one is the Trains! exhibit, which is in the Turner Seasons Garden.

30. Visit the Patsy Cline Museum

The Patsy Cline Museum is a tribute to the talented country singer whose life was cut short in a plane crash. It has an excellent collection of top artifacts and memorabilia including personal belongings, as well as a gift shop with souvenirs.

31. Visit the Tennessee State Capitol

The Tennessee State Capitol serves as the home of the Tennessee General Assembly and the Governor’s Office. It sits on the highest hill at the heart of Nashville and is one of the city’s six National Historic Landmarks. They also offer guided and self-guided tours.

You’ll find monuments around the capitol grounds, most notably the two statues of the Presidents of the United States: Andrew Jackson and Andrew Johnson. The tomb of James K. Polk (another President) can also be found here, where he is buried along with his wife.

Inside, there are portraits of the three Presidents (who are all from Tennessee, by the way) and past governors. Some of the highlights of the building include the Capitol Library with its original iron-cast round spiral staircase and the Capitol balcony, which offers one of the best views in Nashville, overlooking the Bicentennial Mall State Park.

32. Walk Across the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge is one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world, spanning 3,150 feet across the Cumberland River. Because of its truss design, it was admitted to the National Register of Historic Places and is quite an attraction in the city.

Aside from the exercise that you’ll get by walking the length of the bridge, there are also lots of great views to see, like the Cumberland River, the Ryman Stadium, and the surrounding area.

33. And—Yes, Go to the Grand Ole Opry

When it comes to music, Nashville is always synonymous with country music. A trip to this city is never complete without experiencing a live country music show, which is why going to the Grand Ole Opry is a must.

The Grand Ole Opry is where country music took the US by storm. It continues to be America’s longest-running radio show since it began in 1925.

Back then, its immense popularity led to regular live shows by country music’s best performers at the Ryman Auditorium, such as Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, Bill Monroe, and many others. Contemporary artists including Carrie Underwood, Garth Brooks, and Keith Urban continue to perform here.

Which of these are you ready to experience on your visit to Nashville? Though the city can be lively, most especially from the music and nightlife, you’ll find at times a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere, especially from the locals.

Yes, there are lots of fun things to do in Nashville, but that doesn’t mean that you have to rush through every attraction! What’s important is to take your time and enjoy every moment.

Essential Tips for Visiting Nashville Getting There: Nashville International Airport is a major hub and most airlines will fly into it. You can easily check for the best fare deals at Skyscanner , which also has the option to choose ‘cheapest month’ as the departure to find the lowest priced dates to fly to your destination. From the airport to downtown, you can take Bus 18, taxi, car rental, limo, hotel shuttle and ride share. Where to Stay in Nashville: It’s best to stay near the city center, public transportation or the area that you will be spending the most time in. Nashville Riverfront Lofts  is a great choice in the Downtown, Nashville. For something on the less expensive side, try Nashville TN Vacation Rentals located in Nashville . For a hotel with a little more extravagance, book a room at the W Nashville . Or search some great deals on hotels of your choice at Booking.com . If you’re looking for more of a home atmosphere (or are traveling with a group of people), head over to Airbnb that has houses, apartments and even just a room for rent in every price range.  Getting Around: Driving in a new destination can be a bit of a challenge, but if you choose to rent a car, RentalCars.com has great deals. If you are not renting a car, there are plenty of other options. Taxis , Lyft and Uber are available all over the city, plus most of the major attractions can be accessed with the Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Bus . For a more budget friendly option, you can take the city buses or light rail system. You can also rent a bike or a scooter . If you’re out on Broadway and need a quick ride to a nearby pub, hailing a golf cart might be the most efficient alternative. Pedicabs are another downtown option that can be flagged down in the same way as a regular cab. Best Tours in Nashville : You can find some of the top tours at Get Your Guide or Viator , and here are some of the top ones. tours: Nashville: Downtown Segway Tour Experience From Nashville: Jack Daniel’s Hometown Experience with Lunch Nashville: 20-Min Helicopter Tour of Downtown and Music City Insurance: It’s always a good idea to travel fully insured so you are protected in case of trip cancellations or medical emergencies. You can check out pricing at Travelex Insurance .  This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure .

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3 thoughts on “Nashville Bucket List: 30 Fun Things to do Downtown & Beyond”

Hi Annette,

What an amazing read! I have a plan to go to Nashville with some of my best friends, and I am really looking forward to having some fun. Your post gave me a lot of amazing ideas, and I am really looking forward to enjoying my trip. All of these ideas sound super fun, and I am really excited to try them out! Thanks a lot for sharing this amazing article, it was such a great read.

So, pretty . get this information This article we’ll be listing the best experiences you’ll be ticking off your bucket list on your journey around Music City. This give nice information about nashville.

Thanks for giving lots of value through this post…For new bloggers this is the perfect guide.

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15 Great Places to Dine Around Downtown Nashville

The blocks surrounding Broadway offer everything from Italian fine dining to comforting fried bologna sandwiches

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When people think of going out in downtown Nashville, they usually envision Broadway’s raucous pedal taverns, honky-tonks , and rooftops rather than high-quality food at intriguing restaurants. But the influx of visitors in recent years has helped draw excellent new options to augment some existing charmers. Dining out in the city center has never been better, whether you want Italian fine dining or a comforting fried bologna sandwich. Here are downtown Nashville’s top restaurants.

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Black Rabbit

The Farm House chef-owner Trey Cioccia now has two downtown restaurants under his belt with the addition of this cozy Printer’s Alley cocktail den — and both have solid happy hours. Black Rabbit is an ode to a bygone era, with both decor and menu reflecting that aesthetic. Standouts range from the signature rabbit rolls to a smoked rib-eye and chocolate bread pudding topped with marshmallows. They also offer Saturday brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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Skull's Rainbow Room

The original Skull’s Rainbow Room from the 1940s, a legendary hangout and performance venue, shuttered in 1999. The Printers Alley icon reopened in 2015 with nightly live jazz, late-night weekend burlesque, and many of the vintage touches of the original. The revamped dinner menu features luscious lobster bisque, prime rib empanadas, and an excellent garlic honey-glazed pork chop.

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Rae's Sandwich Shoppe

A line is a common occurrence at this longstanding deli on Union, open only for lunch most weekdays. Find standout versions of hot sandwiches like Cubans, Monte Cristos, and hot brown handhelds all served on New Orleans-style French bread alongside original creations, soups, and salads.

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Live jazz is one of the main draws at this casual fine dining destination in the downtown Marriott Courtyard. But the oysters, mushroom risotto, and prime rib know how to hold their own. The sleek Art Deco-ish dining room gussied up in black and gold also serves a stellar duck confit empanada, peach bacon glazed pork chop, and New Zealand rack of lamb with chamomile gastrique.

Ophelia's Pizza + Bar - Nashville

This eclectic, yet homey, downtown cafe specializes in wood-fired pies, antipasti, and an impressive charcuterie board. You can choose to dine al fresco and enjoy an Ophelia’s negroni (blood orange gin, Campari, vermouth, and orange cream bitters) on the intimate patio out front, or post up at the bar towards the back and watch the staff hustle to and from the kitchen. Don’t miss one of the best desserts in the city: the cannoli sundae with ricotta ice cream.

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D’Andrews Bakery & Cafe

Nashville native David Andrews moved back from NYC in 2016 and opened his first shop downtown. At D’Andrews, a 2024 James Beard Award semifinalist, you can grab an espresso, nitro cold brew, or latte with homemade syrups to go with decadent rotating pastries including double-butter croissants, blueberry corn muffins, and brioche pecan cinnamon buns. The breakfast and lunch cafe also makes an enticing assortment of salads, soups, and sandwiches, including a BLT, a pimento grilled cheese, and egg sandwiches, all on house focaccia.

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Robert's Western World

Before Broadway’s streetscape was overtaken by three-story mega-bars named after modern country music stars, Robert’s Western World has consistently offered old-school country music and rockabilly for those seeking a true Nashville honky-tonk experience. And while this is undoubtedly more bar than restaurant, Robert’s $6 Recession Special — a fried bologna sandwich with an icy PBR and Moon Pie for dessert — is an iconic Music City meal.

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Fifth + Broadway

Massive mixed-use development Fifth + Broadway added dozens of excellent dining options for those visiting the popular honky-tonk strip. Standalone highlights include locally grown chains Hattie B’s Hot Chicken and Slim & Husky’s (the pizzeria made history as the first-ever Black-owned restaurant to open on Broadway) plus the wine-soaked Sixty Vines and the glamorous Twelve Thirty Club , which offers live music and food across several floors. The Assembly Food Hall here also offers a staggering variety of stalls and seating areas across multiple levels, including local favorites like Thai Esane , Saffron the Indian Kitchen , Steam Boys , Donut Distillery , and Prince’s Hot Chicken — creator of the iconic Nashville hot chicken.

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The Southern Steak & Oyster

Once upon a time, this was one of the only places in town with an oyster bar. Today, it still remains a local and tourist favorite for its refined Southern dining experience and top-notch street-level patio — even as other oyster bars have cropped up around town. Chase the briny bivalves with thoughtfully prepared traditional dishes like fish and grits, fried chicken with collards and country ham gravy, and steak blue cheese biscuits.

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Revered chef Deb Paquette has a knack for bold flavor, which Etch showcases charmingly in unexpected dishes like octopus and shrimp bruschetta and Moroccan bastilla with saffron eggplant, vegan ricotta harissa carrot ribbons, and almond fennel orange pesto. Perhaps the most popular dish is the roasted cauliflower, available at lunch and dinner with truffled pea puree, salted almonds, feta crema, and red bell pepper sauce. Here, long-time pastry chef Megan Williams turns out meal-closing gems like a pear hazelnut tart on shortbread crust and various housemade ice creams.

• Book with OpenTable

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Situated on the ground floor of the earthy, eco-luxe environs of the 1 Hotel, 1 Kitchen is helmed by Top Chef alum Chris Crary, who puts out an evolving seasonal menu with a zero-waste ethos. The restaurant strives to source 75% of its ingredients within a 200-mile radius, all of which are incorporated in dishes like sweet molasses wheat bread, farmer’s squash soup with curried chickpeas, and duck leg confit. After your meal, head up to the hotel’s rooftop bar, Harriet’s , for a nightcap under the stars.

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Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint

Martin’s is an easy place to recommend to folks with a hankering for Southern barbecue. Pitmaster Pat Martin is keeping the West Tennessee tradition of whole-hog barbecue alive and well, growing his Nolensville-based restaurant into a chain spread across several states. The downtown Nashville location has a mammoth beer garden in the back, providing tons of seating, games, and a stage for live music. Don’t miss Martin’s quintessential pulled-pork barbecue sandwich; other hits include wings, wet or dry ribs, brisket sandwiches, barbecue bologna sandwiches, and Redneck Tacos on cornbread hoecakes.

Nashville scored big when James Beard Award-winning chef Tony Mantuano and wine expert Cathy Mantuano came to town. The powerhouse couple brought a fine dining Italian menu to the Joseph hotel along with sumptuous wines, standout service, and a welcoming atmosphere. Try a chef’s tasting menu — there’s even a rare vegetarian version — or order any of the pasta options a la carte and save room for jaw-dropping desserts from executive pastry chef Noelle Marchetti.

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Bourbon Steak Nashville

The Nashville location of Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak chain boasts 280 seats on the 34th floor of the JW Marriott hotel downtown, so the views are top-notch. The more-is-more approach carries through one of the city’s most extensive whiskey lists and opulent dishes ranging from black truffle mac and cheese to lobster pot pie to a 40-ounce wagyu tomahawk rib-eye carved table-side.

Situated a few blocks south of Broadway in a historic house built in 1879, Husk has been dishing up rustic Southern fare with an emphasis on sourcing ingredients only found in the South. Chef Ben Norton’s menu utilizes in-house pickling and garden-fresh herbs and produce to deliver hearty standouts like shrimp and grits, country ham, pimento cheese, cheddar biscuits, and catfish that bring back diners time and again.

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15 Fabulous Patios for Outdoor Dining and Drinking in Nashville

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38 Things to Do in Nashville for First Timers (with hidden gems)

By: Author Aly Smalls

Posted on Published: November 1, 2022  - Last updated: September 22, 2023

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Although Nashville is the bachelorette capital of the USA and known for the birth country music, after spending a week here, I learned that it’s SO much more than that. 

History, hospitality, food, all genres of music…the energy here is unmatched.

Here are the top things to do in Nashville, Tennessee, especially if you’re a first time visitor.

This list includes the main attractions as well as a few hidden gems, and nothing that’s not worth seeing.

Because I don’t want to waste your time by listing absolutely everything possible you can do in Nashville (hint, there’s too much).

These are only the places, sights, experiences and activities that are worth your valuable time in Nashville.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase I may make a small commission. I only share information about things I know, love and trust!

Lower Broadway Honky Tonks

Nicknamed the honky tonk highway, in downtown Nashville you’ll find Lower Broadway, home of the honky tonks and the best place for nightlife.

This street full of live music is probably the number one attraction in Nashville.

Along 6 blocks you’ll find over 40 bars, and they all have live music every day!

It’s not just nightlife here, the music runs from 10am to 3am everyday.

Some of these bars are even 2 or 3 stories high with a different band or musician on each floor.

The live music is free, but tips are encouraged and appreciated.

And don’t miss checking out the side streets.

For example, the Wildhorse Saloon has the largest dance floor downtown and offers free line dancing.

Doc Holiday’s Bar

Pay a visit to Doc Holiday’s Bar and add your name to a dollar bill and put it up anywhere in the bar. The entire place is covered in money.

It’s also the only bar left in downtown Nashville where you can smoke.

Printer’s Alley 

Printer’s Alley is a hidden gem that a lot of tourists miss. You’ll find it on church street between 3rd and 4th ave.

The narrow alley and all the lights and neon signs make this a magical spot.

It’s a little more lowkey than Broadway where you’ll find a little less country music and little more blues and jazz music. 

But beyond that, there’s so much history here.

During prohibition, the various print shops here turned into speakeasies which blossomed into an underground bar scene and the reason why you’ll find quaint bars and pubs still there today. 

Rascal Flatts and Gretchen Wilson were discovered at venues in Printers Alley. 

Fun fact: Toby Keith recorded “I love this bar” at Lonnie’s in Printers Alley.

The Arcade is a historic shopping area in Nashville with Diagon Alley vibes!

It’s a hidden gem that everyone misses because it’s tucked away 2 blocks behind Broadway between 4th and 5th Avenues.

It was Nashville’s first enclosed shopping district, opened in 1902.

Ryman Auditorium

The Ryman Auditorium is known as the mother church of country music and the birthplace of bluegrass and where the Grand Ole Opry was born.

Legends that have performed here include Elvis Presley, Patsy Cline and Hank Williams.

It’s also where June Carter first met Johnny Cash.

While the grand ole opry has since moved locations, you can still buy tickets for live concerts as well as take a tour of this historic building.

View tour info here.

Ryman Alley

And while you’re there, walk down Ryman Alley, where you can literally walk in the footsteps of country music legends.

Performers would use the back door of the Ryman Auditorium to sneak through the back alley to tootsie’s orchid lounge for a drink after their shows.

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is arguably the most famous honky tonk on Broadway, and you can’t miss the bright purple colored building.

It’s where Willie Nelson got his first songwriting job after performing here.

The most famous patrons who frequented here were Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, and since I’m Canadian, a plug for Terri Clark who got her start here.

Grand Ole Opry

You definitely need to enjoy a night at the Grand Ole Opry, which is not only a concert, but a live radio show that’s been running since 1925.

It’s the longest running radio broadcast in US history.

It’s known as the show that made country music famous.

Each Opry show features live performances by 8 or more artists that range from country music legends, up and coming artists and legendary songwriters.

On this night we saw Terri Clark and Jon Pardi perform among others!

You can also tour the building, learn about the history and go backstage if you didn’t manage to get concert tickets. 

There are two ways for you to enjoy the Grand Ole Opry! The first one is to buy Grand Ole Opry Show Ticket . Another one is to take this Grand Ole Opry Admission with Post-Show Backstage Tour . Choose the best one for you and enjoy the time spent there!

Gaylord Opryland Hotel and Conservatory

The Gaylord Opryland Hotel is the largest non-casino resort in the United States.

Not only is the hotel impressive, inside you’ll find a massive indoor garden and conservatory complete with a boat ride and waterfalls.

They also have stores and restaurants inside to complete your visit if you’re not an overnight guest.

Johnny Cash Museum

If you’re a fan of the man in black, the Johnny Cash Museum is a must see in Nashville.

It’s small, but packed with history and all kinds of items from his personal and professional life. 

Combine it with a meal at Sun Diner

For an exceptional breakfast or lunch before or after your visit, try out Sun Diner next door.

It pays homage to Sun Records’ legendary artists, including Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash.

I may have ordered the crème Brule French toast more than once which is cinnamon bread dunked in a Rumchata batter.

Ernest Tubb Record Shop

Opened in 1947, this is the ultimate record shop where you’ll find almost every piece of country and bluegrass music. 

Country Music Hall of Fame

The country music hall of fame takes you through the origin of country music and bluegrass music all the way to current country rock stars.

This museum is massive and provides an in depth look at the most celebrated genre of music here in Nashville.

After exploring the exhibits, you can also take the Historic RCA Studio B tour.

Historic RCA Studio B

RCA Studio B is the famous recording studio which gave birth to the Nashville sound.

Many famous artists record here including Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, Dolly Parton and many other legends.

Tip: save money and buy the combined Country Music Hall of Fame and RCA Studio B Tour ticket combo

Hatch Show Print

Hatch Show Print is the original letter press and poster print shop in Nashville, operating since the 1800s (and still going today).

On a tour here you’ll see the printmaking process in action, view iconic posters they’ve made for country music legends, as well as a chance to design and make your own print.

National Museum of African American Music

According to their website , the National Museum of African American Music is: “the only museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating the many music genres created, influenced, and inspired by African Americans.”

This is a brand new museum in Nashville and a must visit for any music fan.

Old Town Trolley Tour

One thing I really enjoyed was taking the Old Town Trolley tour of some of Nashville’s biggest attractions.

It’s a hop on hop off style sightseeing tour full of all kinds of fun facts and history from your driver who narrates the whole way.

I recommend this for first time visitors and early on in your trip to get the lay of the land.

There’s 13 stops so you can see many different parts of the city and you can ride as many times all day.

Many of the Nashville attractions listed within this post are accessible from stops on the Trolley Tour. 

View trolley tour prices & info here .

Bluebird Café

The Bluebird Café is one of the most iconic spots for live music in Nashville – you might recognize it from the famous show of the same name.

Established in the early 1980s, this small venue features up-and-coming as well as hit songwriters in an intimate setting.

The vibe here is a listening room where the songs and the stories are the stars of the show.

It was here that I really came to appreciate how respected the songwriting community in Nashville is.

You might recognize some country stars that were discovered here, including Keith urban, Garth Brooks and Taylor Swift.

General Jackson Showboat Dinner Cruise

Cruise the historic Cumberland River on one of the country’s largest paddle-wheel boats, the General Jackson.

Enjoy the Nashville scenery from a different angle and catch the sunset if you do the dinner cruise and indulge in a home cooked southern meal on board.

After dinner, sip drinks and listen to live music from the boat decks.

This is another highly rated experience in Nashville. 

View tour prices and info here.

Tour the Homes of the Stars

Did you know there are tons of famous country stars and musicians that call Nashville their home?

On this comfortable bus sightseeing tour you’ll pass by some of the most beautiful neighborhoods and homes of past and present Nashvillians, including Dolly Parton, Taylor Swift, Reese Witherspoon, Garth Brooks and many more. 

Even if you’re not a fan of the rich and famous, this tour provides an in depth tour of some of Nashville’s most varied neighborhoods that most tourists miss. 

Cowboy Boot Shopping

Now, a lot of locals will tell you that the way they can spot tourists is those who wear cowboy boots and hats.

Because of this I was almost not going to bring my boots, but I’m so glad I did.

I ended up wearing them every single day – because I was tourist and so was everyone else who were rocking their boots.

And there’s no shame in that.

One of my favorite things to do was to go boot shopping and check out all the different and outrageous designs (and price tags) among the fresh leather smell.

Line Dancing Class

If you’re in Nashville, there’s no way you’re leaving this town without hitting a dance floor and joining in on a line dance!

If you need a little help or want to brush up on your moves, you can take part in a one hour line dancing crash course.

This is a really fun activity if you’re in town with some friends for a bachelorette or a birthday party.

Check out line dancing lessons here . 

Tip – you can also learn to line dance for free at the Whiskey Saloon, just off Broadway where they offer line dancing lessons almost every night of the week on downtown’s largest dancefloor.

AA Foot Spa

After a couple days of walking around town in your cowboy boots, this place is much needed.

This one is a major hidden gem in Nashville, it’s called AA Foot Spa, and it came recommended to us from a friend who regularly works the country music awards.

It was $40 for the most heavenly foot massage I’ve ever had. It’s a good 20 minutes south of downtown but well worth the drive or Uber ride.

You can find it at 224 Thompson Ln #B.

East Nashville

East Nashville is across the Cumberland River and offers a really different vibe from the honky tonk country music atmosphere in downtown Nashville.

One of my favorite ways to tour this neighborhood was by going on the Brew Hop Brewery Trolley Tour.

It’s a hop on hop off trolley bus that takes you to 7 different breweries. 

View prices & info for the Brewery Tour here .

Go Mural Exploring

Nashville’s art scene was one of the biggest surprises about visiting this city.

I knew it had a few famous murals, but I didn’t realize you can find them on almost every corner it seems.

If you’re looking for a fun and free activity in Nashville, plan a day or an afternoon with your camera and go mural hopping.

If you don’t have a car, there are some fun guided mural tours you can join, like this one that brings you around in a golf cart .

Try Hot Chicken 

While some Nashville locals will tell you to visit Prince’s Hot Chicken, others will tell you to visit Hattie B’s.

Either way, you must try Nashville’s most famous food while you’re here – hot chicken.

We tried Hattie B’s where they’ve got different heat levels ranging from mild to shut the cluck up.

I went for the classic bone-in which is the most traditional way to get hot chicken and went for medium which had a bit of kick but not over the top.

Goo Goo Chocolate Co.

Goo Goo Chocolate Co. was the first company to make a combination chocolate bar in the USA.

If you love chocolate and want a taste of history, stop in for a goo goo cluster.

White Limozeen (Dolly Parton’s Bar)

A unique place to have some drinks and small bites (especially if you’re on a girls trip) is White Limozeen, which is Dolly Parton’s bar.

Everything is pretty in pink. In the summer there’s also the rooftop patio with a pool.

You can find it at the top of the Graduate Hotel in midtown which is about 10 minutes west of downtown.

A visit to White Limozeen is only 1 of 16 unique things to do in Nashville on your Bachelorette party !

Hermitage Hotel

The Hermitage is an upscale, swanky hotel that’s been in downtown Nashville since 1910.

But the most interesting thing about them are the fancy bathrooms, decorated in art deco style. Stop in and ask to see them.

Belle Meade Plantation and Historic Site

The Belle Meade Plantation dates back to the 1840s but was no ordinary plantation.

Here, they bred thoroughbred race horses, where famous bloodlines originated from including Seabiscuit.

There are a few different tours onsite – we chose to tour the mansion, which doesn’t allow photos or video inside, but I can assure you it was fascinating.

But the best part is that there’s a winery onsite, and you can tour the grounds with a glass of wine.  View tour info and prices here.

The Parthenon

Nashville has a full scale replica of the Parthenon, which has earned this city the nickname, Athens of the South.

Inside, you’ll find beautiful art galleries.

Tip – this is included as a stop on the Old Town Trolley tour.

12 South Neighborhood

The 12 South neighborhood was one of my favorite areas to visit, home to locally owned shops and restaurants, vintage stores and of course more murals.  

The Gulch 

Closer to downtown is the Gulch – a higher end neighborhood with boutique shops, famous murals and great eateries.

You’ll find Biscuit Love which is very famous, and also Milk & Honey which was our go-to breakfast spot more than once.

But it’s very popular – sometimes there was a 2 hour wait!

We got lucky and got first come first serve bar seating both times. 

Tip: book a golf cart neighborhood shopping tour and hit all the hot spots without having to walk. 

Frist Art Museum

The Frist Art Museum is home to some of the most prestigious art exhibits in the country and the rotating exhibits are exceptional.

But not only that, the building itself is historically significant. Built in 1934, his building was originally Nashville’s main post office.

Marathon Motor Works

Marathon Motor Works is a former automobile plant that’s been resurrected into a district full of shops, restaurants, distilleries, wineries,  recording studios and more.

The old brick building is unique and is one of the most popular stops on the Old Town Trolley tour.

Belmont Mansion 

The Belmont Mansion is an ornate Italian-style villa that almost reminds one of a mini-Versailles.

It’s been beautifully preserved and it’s not far from downtown.

If you don’t have much time to get out of the city to see other mansions from the 1800s, this one is a great choice.

Jack Daniels Distillery

It doesn’t get more Nashville than this – take a tour of Tennessee Whiskey at the Jack Daniel’s distillery.

It’s about 1.5 hours from Nashville (in Lynchburg), so the easiest way to enjoy the tour and tasting is to join this day trip bus tour.

Visiting the Jack Daniel’s Distillery is one of the best and highest rated day trips from Nashville, and I definitely recommend making time to do this one.

View tour prices & info here.

Arrington Vineyards

If you’re in need of some stunning scenery and a glass of wine, Arrington Vineyards will take your breath away.

With picnic areas and live music throughout the summer months, this place is more than just your typical wine tasting experience. 

🍷 Book your transportation to the Arrington Vineyard

Visit award-winning winery with this Arrington Vineyard Winery Round-Trip Shuttle Transportation from Nashville . Luxury round-trip transportation from Nashville will take you right to the Arrington Vineyards Winery!

Wille Nelson and Friends Museum 

This place is a quirky little museum combined with a massive gift and souvenir shop.

Buy your admission tickets online to save a little money.

Catio Cat Lounge

The Catio Cat Lounge is a rescue agency that houses cats until they get adopted.

Until then, visitors are able to book a one hour session (for $12) to play and snuggle with the cats and kittens in their cat café. Check out their website for more info.

Where we Stayed in Nashville (first timers)

Since we were in Nashville for 8 days, we wanted to stay in two different hotels.

We stayed at the Graduate Nashville (fancy) which is the perfect place for a girls trip because it’s home to White Limozeen – Dolly Parton’s all-pink rooftop bar!

We also stayed at Element Nashville Vanderbilt West End (budget).

We liked it because it was low cost, brand new and only a 10-minute drive to downtown/Broadway.

Each of these hotels worked really well for us even though we didn’t have a car.

We just used Uber everywhere and it was easy!

If you’re coming to Nashville on a girls trip, here are the Best Hotels in Nashville for a Bachelorette Party

Touring more of Tennessee?

Read my list of 11 Unique Places to Stay in Tennessee (that you can actually afford)!

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The Best Things to Do in Nashville (Even If You're Not a Partier!)

See country legends perform, visit beautiful state parks, taste the best hot chicken, and more.

Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

Nashville has a reputation for being a prime destination for partiers. It's one of the top spots for bachelorette parties, after all! But while there are certainly many honky-tonks open until the wee hours of the morning—and bar bikes riding up and down Broadway all day long—this historic city has even more to offer that you may not know about.

So make your way down Honky Tonk Highway for a quintessential Nashville experience. Or if you'd rather have a quiet night listening to live country music, wait in line for the best hot chicken sandwich (ever!), enjoy a day at a distillery or winery, go zip lining, have a peaceful day at a state park, or take in Nashville views on a hot air balloon, we're happy to report you can do that here too.

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

You can't go to Nashville without learning about country music, and one of the best places to do that is the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum . Located on Music Row in downtown Nashville, this large museum celebrates all things about the genre.

Meet animals at the Nashville Zoo.

Whether or not you're traveling with little ones, it's worth a trip to the Nashville Zoo . Not only are there plenty of animal exhibits, but there are also fun family-friendly experiences, like zip lining, a carousel, and animal shows. Make a day out of it by enjoying some of the dining options, including a pizza kitchen and a creamery.

Stop by the Johnny Cash Museum.

Fans of Johnny Cash will not want to miss the Johnny Cash Museum , which features the world's largest collection of Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia. It's one of the top attractions in the area—and right next door, you can grab something to eat at Johnny Cash's Bar & BBQ .

Find snacks at the Nashville Farmers' Market.

A stop at the Nashville Farmers' Market is a must for anyone who wants to do something low-key. The large market features artisanal food, fresh produce, restaurants, shops, and crafts. Grab some snacks or something to cook later if you need a break from eating out.

Walk the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge.

Take in incredible views of the river and downtown skyline by walking the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge , which is closed to car traffic. The historic bridge built from 1907-09 connects downtown Nashville to East Nashville.

Explore the Adventure Science Center.

If you're looking for a way to entertain the kids, head to the Adventure Science Center , a non-profit science museum for children. There, you'll find over 175 hands-on interactive exhibits, from climbing structures to the Sudekum Planetarium.

Experience the Honky Tonk Highway.

One of the most famous streets in Nashville, the Honky Tonk Highway (aka lower Broadway) is a stretch of honky tonk bars known for their music and atmosphere. For a more family-friendly vibe, go before 8 p.m. If you want to get a little wild, head there after dinner. You'll find iconic spots, like Tootsie's Orchid Lounge and The Second Fiddle.

Enjoy the outdoors at Cumberland Park.

If you want to get out of the city for a bit, Cumberland Park is a great spot to walk along the water and enjoy river views. You can walk The Explorer Trail if you want to see butterflies, or take the kids to the play area.

Get a glimpse of (or go inside!) the Parthenon.

Located in Centennial Park, the Parthenon in Nashville is the world's only exact-size and detail replica of the original in Athens, Greece. It was once created for a celebration—but it was so popular, it stuck around. Today, the building regularly hosts art exhibits.

Browse the Nashville Flea Market.

The Nashville Flea Market at The Fairgrounds is only open during the fourth weekend of each month (with some exceptions), but if you catch it, it's worth a visit. It features a wide variety of shopping booths—and if you're looking for unique antiques and vintage items, it's a great place for browsing.

Catch a show at The Bluebird Cafe.

The tiny Bluebird Cafe isn't just a place to get something to eat: It's one of the most iconic listening rooms in the world. Artists like Taylor Swift and Faith Hill have had career-defining moments there, and the place is teeming with country music history. There are two shows a night and reservations are highly recommended.

Stay at the iconic Hermitage Hotel.

There are a lot of hotels to choose from in Nashville, but an iconic and classic option is The Hermitage Hotel —where music greats like Patsy Cline and Johnny Cash have stayed. It's located in a prime downtown Nashville spot and offers gorgeous rooms and luxury amenities.

Watch country legends perform at the Grand Ole Opry.

The Grand Ole Opry , one of the biggest attractions in Nashville, is one you won't want to miss. Catch a two-hour live show multiple nights a week, with performances by country legends and rising stars—or just take a tour . And if you need somewhere to stay, the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center is a popular hotel, with a spa, golf course, and water attraction.

Visit the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame.

The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame honors teams, coaches, athletes, and more from the state of Tennessee. Even if you don't actively root for a Tennessee team, diehard sports fans will enjoy browsing the memorabilia and taking in sports history.

Fly high in a hot air balloon.

Adventure seekers will want to reserve a seat in a hot air balloon for arguably the best views of middle Tennessee.

Eat at The Grilled Cheeserie.

There are tons of great restaurants to choose from in Nashville, but The Grilled Cheeserie can't be missed. The food-truck-turned-restaurant is known for—of course—grilled cheese. Try one of the popular gourmet options, like the Buffalo South Melt, or make your own.

Spend time in The Warner Parks.

There's so much to do in the city of Nashville that it's easy to forget that there are a lot of nature-centric things too. Edwin and Percy Parks, collectively known as " The Warner Parks ," create one of the largest parks in Tennessee. You'll find these iconic Allée steps, hiking trails, golf courses, dog parks, horse trails, scenic overlooks, and more.

Have lots of fun at Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort.

If you visit Nashville during the spring or summer months, wear the kids out at Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort , a waterpark (with 1 million gallons of water!), adventure course, and campground located on Percy Priest Lake—just 10 miles from downtown Nashville. You can rent a lakeside cabin, go zip lining, rent a pontoon boat, go on the water slides...the list of activities is basically endless.

Embrace music culture at the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum.

There's a lot to see at the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum , so plan accordingly! See instruments used by famous artists, like Simon and Garfunkel, The Beach Boys, Stevie Wonder, and more—and actual studio booths used by the likes of Elvis.

Spend an evening at the Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory.

Visit Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory at Vanderbilt University for tours, telescope nights, meet the astronomer evenings, and more. It's not open all year round, so check the website for hours and ticket information.

Jessica is a freelance writer from New York who loves kale salads and hanging out with her cats.

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Downtown Nashville

Top things to do in downtown nashville.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Downtown Nashville
• Green Hills
• Historic Edgefield
• Bellmont/Hillsboro
• Bordeaux Area
• Hillsboro West End
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Kids
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Ryman Auditorium

2. Downtown Nashville

3. Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum

4. National Museum of African American Music

5. The District

6. Tennessee Performing Arts Center

7. Nashville Public Library

8. Tennessee State Capitol

9. Printer's Alley

10. Nashville Convention and Visitor's Bureau

11. The Escape Game Nashville (Downtown)

12. Assembly Food Hall

13. Nashville Repertory Theatre

14. St Mary's of the Seven Sorrow Catholic Church

15. Robert's Western World

16. Nashville War Memorial Auditorium

17. Escape Experience

18. Nashville Convention Center

19. Downtown Presbyterian Church

20. Tootsies Orchid Lounge

21. The Stage on Broadway

22. Legends Corner

23. Christ Church Cathedral

24. President James K Polk Tomb

25. Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar

26. Wildhorse Saloon

27. Savannah's Candy Kitchen

28. Layla's Bluegrass Inn

29. Big Bang Dueling Piano Bar - Nashville

30. Military Branch of Tennessee State Museum

What travellers are saying.

13 Excellent Restaurants to Try in Nashville

From classic meat ‘n’ threes to natural wine bars with fine-dining chops, this city’s food scene is on the upswing.

By Ellen Fort

Published on April 15, 2024

Nashville, “Music City,” has long been a haven for musicians and songwriters, but these days my hometown is also experiencing a surge of culinary talent. A decade or two ago, finding handrolls made with fish from Tokyo or natural wine by the glass was a challenge. Now, we’re in business, with more options coming down the pike at a rapid pace.

Born and raised in Nashville, I spent my childhood digging into plates of fried chicken with sides of squash casserole and turnip greens at Elliston Place Soda Shop, and meandering out to Highway 100 for a plate of biscuits at Loveless Cafe—establishments that have fed this city for generations. We’ve always eaten well here, but as the city has changed —becoming more international, and influenced by the East and West Coasts—so have its tastes, expanding beyond the down-home cooking visitors might expect. 

That’s a good thing. Ours is a vibrant dining scene that caters to all tastes and budgets, from experimental fine dining to tried-and-true lunch counters. There are way more than 13 excellent places to visit in Nashville, use this as your primer to getting a tasty of Music City. Whether you're craving a plate of hot chicken from Prince’s or artfully arranged Appalachian food from chef Sean Brock, Nashville has it.

Elliston Place Soda Shop

2105 Elliston Place, Nashville, TN 37203 (615)-219-2704

Aside from hot chicken, Nashville’s other hometown food is the “meat ‘n’ three,” a plate lunch consisting of a protein and three sides. The Southern classic is a specialty of The Elliston Place Soda Shop. Opened in 1935, it is one of the few remaining (and best examples) of the genre. Generations of Nashvillians have graced the red leather booths and black-and-white-tiled floors over the years, tended to by staff that feels like it turns over about once a century. (Ms. Linda, “the pie lady,” still makes her beloved coconut meringue pies every morning.) Though Elliston Place moved to a newer space next door a few years ago, it still features the soda counter and pressed tin ceiling, which makes the milkshakes, sundaes, and off-menu Elmer —all made with ice cream from Nashville’s Purity Dairy—taste like the good old days.

International Market

2013 Belmont Blvd., Nashville, TN 37212 (615)-297-4453

International Market introduced Nashvillians to Thai food in the 1970s, when it opened on Belmont Boulevard serving an exceptionally affordable steam table lunch of Thai and Chinese dishes. Now, with a new location (across the street) and new ownership (Anna and Arnold Myint, children of the original owners), the restaurant incorporates high-quality local meats and produce in an updated setting—though thankfully the original mustard-and-orange bench seating came along for the ride. The kitchen is now a proving ground for chef Arnold Myint, a recent James Beard Semifinalist. Menu items venture beyond the typical selections of curries with five-spice duck lo mein, shrimp and pineapple curry, and red curry rice ball wraps. At lunch, diners can choose from the classic steam table option or order from the menu; nighttime brings table service with Singhas and craft cocktails.

2305 12th Ave. S., Nashville, TN 37204 (No phone)

At Locust, chef Trevor Moran created his own culinary genre blending influences from Japan to his native Ireland. I’ve eaten briny Belon oysters that tasted—pleasantly—like licking a battery; a roast sole served with morels and uni; and a bowl of tiny sea snails served with toothpicks and spicy salt. The DIY beef tartare handrolls—freshly ground bottom round, fluffy rice, and smoky pickled egg cream, plus freeze-dried capers and nori for rolling—are a must, as is the tuna crisp, featuring house-cured slices of tuna loin and belly atop a fried wonton crisp slathered with horseradish. The chefs deliver these dishes to the tables themselves to an eclectic soundtrack featuring everything from Meat Loaf to old-school hip-hop). The drink list is heavy on natural wines, though my go-to is the Toki Highball cocktail or a can of sake. In homage to Moran’s birthplace, there’s Guinness by the pint and Irish gin and tonics compete with Orion beer and sake cups.

747 Douglas Ave., Suite 105B, Nashville, TN 37207 (No phone)

The diminutive Kisser, modeled after a Japanese kissaten, a neighborhood spot serving comfort food where locals can eat, drink, and hang out, has been a smash hit since opening in 2023. After spending years in some of the best kitchens in LA and Nashville, co-owner couple Brian Lea and Leina Horii decided to focus on their own vision. Inspired in part by Horii’s family sushi restaurant in California, the menu blends traditional Japanese cuisine and their fine-dining techniques with dishes like onigiri stuffed with snow crab and avocado, a perfectly crispy chicken katsu sandwich on fluffy house-made milk bread, and bowls of udon in delicate broth. It’s one of the best places in town to enjoy fresh fish, particularly the chirashi bowl, brimming with sashimi and glistening salmon roe. Make sure to end your meal with a green melon-cream soda or a crackly miso crème brûlée. 

823 Meridian St., Nashville, TN 37207 (615)-610-2595

Folk is a neighborhood gem that Nashville needs now more than ever as hotels and chains threaten to take hold of the dining scene. The restaurant is perched on a quiet corner in East Nashville’s McFerrin Park and welcomes diners with wood-fired sourdough-crust pizzas—my favorite is adorned with Little Neck clams, parsley, bonito, and lemon—and rustic Italian-leaning dishes like Marcella beans with spicy pepper relish, bouncy focaccia with whipped ricotta, and more. From the high-ceilinged dining room, adorned with paper lanterns and exposed brick walls, you can glimpse the bustling kitchen and blazing pizza oven. Natural wines and classic cocktails are the move at the bar, where the afternoon light streams in during the daily apéro hour. The crowd of shockingly healthy houseplants are as well-nourished as the patrons. 

Redheaded Stranger

305 Arrington St., Nashville, TN 37207 (615)-544-8226

Not far from Folk stands a Tex-Mex taco shop with a sense of humor where you can gobble down one chef’s highly agreeable take on Taco Bell’s Crunchwrap. To make it, chef Bryan Lee Weaver (also of Butcher & Bee ) fills his fluffy handmade tortillas with Texas red chili, pork green chili, or both when you order it “Xmas-style.” If tacos are more your speed, you’ll find toppings like brisket, tater tots, and freshly roasted Hatch chiles. To me, the sleeper hit is the vegetarian taco with charred poblano, whipped feta, and crispy rice, thanks to its variety of textures and smoky heat. The queso dip comes with more of those warm, velvety tortillas (never chips!), and the frozen margaritas are tart and free of sickly-sweet sour mix. The interior offers retro-diner vibes, with a formica bar and red leather booths, but there’s nothing like grabbing a patio seat in the summertime to let those margs work their Texas magic.

809 Meridian St., Nashville, TN 37207 (615)-988-3263

Chef Sean Brock has dedicated his career to studying Appalachian foodways and cuisine, from his time at Charleston’s award-winning restaurants McCrady’s and Husk to present-day passion projects like Audrey. Within this minimalist monolith of a building is a warm restaurant serving food that borrows from the chef’s upbringing in rural Kentucky. On the menu, chicken and dumplings with fines herbes and black truffles are based on a recipe from his grandmother, Audrey, who gave the restaurant its name. The dining room is centered around the kitchen and its woodfired grill; its walls display Brock’s collection of outsider art, from Butch Anthony to Moses Tolliver, selected to immerse diners in his dreamworld. 

Henrietta Red

1200 4th Ave. N., Nashville, TN 37208 (615)-490-8042

Lucky for Nashvillians, former Per Se chef and Nashville native Julia Sullivan came home to open her first solo restaurant in Henrietta Red. This airy, tiled Germantown spot boasts an oyster bar glistening with mollusks including Maine’s salty Mookie Blues and Alabama’s buttery Murder Points. Despite Nashville’s landlocked status (the Cumberland River doesn’t count), Henrietta Red deftly combines coastal ingredients with Southern flavors in dishes like oysters roasted with ‘nduja butter and whole trout with dandelion greens. Wood-fired seafood is the focus here, but the fresh pastas and vegetables—particularly the beet salad with pistachio and mint—stand out, too. Brunch brings its own reason to visit, with dishes like shrimp toast with beets and tahini and smoked fish cakes with lemon-fennel aioli.

1021 Russell St., Nashville, TN 37206 (no phone)

So named because “opening a restaurant is a bad idea,” this natural wine bar is the brainchild of owner-sommelier Alex Burch and chef Colby Rasavong. You might kick things off, for instance, with a scallop-stuffed crepe in a pool of nam prik blanquette topped by a lacey tuile, and follow that with a vegetarian laab made with sunflower milk, or pain perdu kaya toast topped with caviar. It’s all happening inside a repurposed church sanctuary with original windows and high ceilings. Worship at this altar of wine and food later in the night, and bar snacks are the vibe—think curry-caviar corndogs and fried bologna sandwiches (a late-night Nashville classic) with potato chip aioli. 

Prince’s Hot Chicken

5814 Nolensville Pike, Nashville, TN 37211 (615)-810-9388

Despite the ever-widening swath of restaurants serving Prince’s signature dish around the globe, you have to visit the original purveyor to get real-deal Nashville hot chicken. As the story goes, the ultra-spicy sandwich was created as punishment by a jilted lover of Thornton Prince ; but, instead of catching on fire, Prince loved the spice so much that he’d go on to perfect the recipe that launched his business. Today, Prince’s remains the best in class, serving up fried chicken spiced with cayenne pepper oil atop a slice of white bread with a pickle (a foil to all that cayenne).

Wendell Smith’s

407 53rd Ave. N., Nashville, TN 37209 (615)-383-7114

Wood-paneled walls line the dining room of this classic meat ‘n’ three restaurant that’s been serving up Southern soul since 1952. Every day, the fourth-generation owners welcome a regular crowd hungry for roast beef, baked ham, and pit barbecue, plus daily specials like fried catfish, chicken and dumplings, and throwback fixins like candied yams, turnip greens, baked apples, fried corn, and creamed potatoes. Wendell Smith’s is a slice of Nashville that has hung on to its corner lot despite unchecked development all around it, still sharing space with the adjacent liquor store of the same name that’s been operating just as long. 

Loveless Cafe

8400 Hwy. 100, Nashville, TN 37221 (615)-646-9700 

What began 70 years ago as a humble motel and cafe at the start of the Natchez Trace Parkway has been thriving from the moment Lon and Annie Love began serving biscuits and fried chicken to travelers out of their home kitchen. After their continuing success, the couple turned their home into a restaurant and opened 14 rooms as a motel to accompany their new dining destination. The motel went out of operation years ago, and its rooms are now home to retail space with smoked hams, jams, and biscuit mix on offer. Though there is now expanded outdoor seating and an outdoor bar serving bloody Marys when the wait is long, there’s nothing better than grabbing a seat in the tiny dining room that still feels like home.  

Sperry’s Restaurant

5109 Harding Pike, Nashville, TN 37205 (615)-353-0809

An institution since 1974, this legendary West Nashville steakhouse is a windowless dining room featuring backlit stained glass, carpeting, a stone fireplace with a roaring fire (most nights), and sporty portraits of the hounds and horses that once lived on the grounds of the abutting Belle Meade Mansion. Martinis and Manhattans pair perfectly with Sperry’s steaks and seafood, from a filet Oskar smothered in crabmeat and Béarnaise to king crab legs served with drawn butter. Nashville’s very first salad bar remains gloriously intact here, where diners can pile their plate with neon green goddess and bacon crumbles (though the plated iceberg wedge salad topped with bacon and black olives is my choice). Bananas Foster, another highlight, is served tableside in a plume of booze-soaked flames and cinnamon-fueled sparks. The doors open at 4 for happy hour, when sausage-stuffed mushrooms and discounted cocktails draw a steady stream of locals each day. 

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5 Great Things to do in Nashville (Besides Party)

N ashville is one of the most exciting cities in the US to visit, whether you’re looking to reclaim your youth or have a more relaxed experience. The good news is that there are so many fun things to do in Nashville besides party!

After reading your article, you’ll know where to stay in Nashville, what to do in Nashville and pick up some valuable Nashville travel tips.

Where to stay in Nashville

To get that “Nashville vibe” considered staying in Downtown Nashville or nearby. Whether you plan to go out late or not, it’s nice to be able to pop back to your hotel at a moment’s notice!

We had a wonderful stay at Holston House , a Nashville boutique hotel run by Hyatt. It’s located in a historic building that has been beautifully updated. There’s a sense of warm sophistication at every touch! The location on 7th Street is perfect – close enough to walk to many of the main Nashville attractions, bars and live music venues on Lower Broadway but away from the unruly crowds.

There are a variety of rooms available including King and 2 Queen options of different sizes. Our room featured one of the most beautiful hotel bathrooms we’ve ever seen!

You can also enjoy the rooftop pool and bar both day and night. There’s a great low-key lounge vibe up there to complement the wonderful views. Both the rooftop and the lobby bar are. a nice respite if you want to have a drink and a conversation somewhere in Downtown Nashville.

Without question, I’d stay at Holston House again!

If you’re on a tighter budget or need more space to spread out, consider Hyatt Place Downtown Nashville . It’s around the corner from the Country Music Hall of Fame and in a slightly quieter area that’s still convenient to Lower Broadway.

There are plenty of room sizes to choose from and the largest ones will hold up to 6 guests. You’ll also get free breakfast and an indoor pool.

Best things to do in Nashville Besides Party

Whether you’re a non-drinker or just looking for a more low-key experience, there are tons of great things to do in Nashville during the day and night.

Listen to live music

Even if you aren’t into the party scene of downtown Nashville, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy live music at all hours.

During the day, push your way through the crowds and head toward the riverfront along Broadway. ACME Feed & Seed has several spaces that vary in how raucous they are (and what ages are allowed) but during the day you can enjoy live music with your lunch without worrying about overzealous partiers. Whiskey River Saloon (next door) has a fantastic whiskey selection and isn’t too over-the-top during the day though after dark it attracts big crowds.

Check the calendars to see what time bands are playing or just stroll around until something sounds good and doesn’t look too crowded, but we definitely found thinner crowds near the riverfront than around 2nd and 3rd streets.

If you want to hear live music in Nashville not on Broadway there are some excellent options. It’s good to know that many of the best spots sell tickets for their shows, so ideally you’ll decide where to go a week in advance (but even if you don’t, there’s still hope). Some of the best spots are The Bluebird Cafe , The Listening Room , Station Inn and The Basement East .

If you couldn’t snag tickets or your dinner plans don’t work with the show times, try one of the free shows at The Listening Room. In a city full of talent, you’ll find up-and-comers performing on the stage near the bar in a relaxed venue. This is also one of the best places to see live music with kids in Nashville!

Eat amazing food

Nashville is right up there with some of America’s top foodie cities, but obviously it’s got plenty of unique personality in its cuisine. There are a few things you have to try while you’re there:

• Hot chicken – It’s like fried chicken, but taken to the next level with plenty of kick. The most convenient location (which is absolutely delicious) is Hattie B’s on Broadway, but for shorter lines and a more local feel check out the Melrose or West Nashville outpost if you have a car.
• Biscuits – This is the South, so you’ll want to be sure to try some biscuits alongside your fried chicken. Check out Biscuit Love (conveniently located in The Gulch), Nashville Biscuit House or Sky Blue Cafe.
• Donuts – If you haven’t had your fill of fried food yet, round out the trifecta with an excellent croissant-style 100 layer donut from Five Daughters Bakery in 12South or East Nashville.

When you need a break from deep fried fare, Nashville still has plenty of great options for you. For light “coastal” food check out The Hampton Social just off of Broadway, or mix it up with fantastic fancy tacos at Ladybird Taco in 12 South or incredible sophisticated Southern cooking at 5th & Taylor in Germantown.

For a unique experience, check out this great Nashville food tour in the historic-turned-trendy Germantown neighborhood. It’s a great way to learn about the city’s history while also sampling some of its finest offerings from BBQ to baked goods to cocktails.

Honor music’s greats

Once you set foot in Nashville, it’s no surprise that it’s been dubbed “Music City, USA”. Music is everywhere and it has been for decades. In addition to hitting up some great spots for live music, one of the best things to do in Nashville during the day is visit one of its many music museums.

We had time to visit three of these top Nashville attractions, and have a fourth on our to-do list for the next time we’re in town. The great news is that these are all located in Downtown Nashville so it’s easy to pop in for an hour or two. I promise, these are some of the best daytime activities in Nashville!

• Country Music Hall of Fame – There’s so much more to country music than Merle Haggard and Dolly Parton, though they’re important of course. The Country Music Hall of Fame does a great job of tracing country’s roots and inspirations along with the turning points in the genre and crossovers between other styles. Even though we aren’t big country music fans, it was absolutely worth a visit! This is one of the only places in Nashville where we waited in line, so I recommend buying your tickets in advance . For a truly unique experience you can combine a visit to the Hall of Fame with a behind-the-scenes tour of RCA’s Studio B .
• Johnny Cash Museum – If you’re even a little bit of a Johnny Cash fan, you can’t miss a stop here! This museum celebrates his music while also acknowledging the winding path of Cash’s life. You’ll see everything from the logbooks from his days in the Air Force to the chair he sat in for the sublime music video of Hurt .
• National Museum of African American Music – This is “the one that got away” for us, but with just a weekend in Nashville we couldn’t see everything . It’s a one-of-a-kind museum that showcases and preserves the deep influence and critical role African Americans played in the development of American music over time.
• Ryman Auditorium – While not technically a museum, the Ryman Auditorium is Nashville’s most storied music venue and a great place to witness history flowing into modernity. It was the original home of the Grand Ole Opry, which beamed country music to audiences around the country, and today hosts epic shows of all genres. The visit starts with a well-done movie and then moves into the Auditorium itself. We did the excellent guided tour, which also took us to the dressing rooms and included plenty of fun stories about the stars.

Explore Nashville history

While it’s often viewed as a one-dimensional party town, there are plenty of interesting historic sites in Nashville that are worth a visit.

We opted to visit the historic Belle Meade plantation, just 20 minutes from Downtown Nashville but certainly a world away. At its peak, the property covered more than 5000 acres and was a prominent stud farm in the thoroughbred racing world.

Thankfully Belle Meade has done an excellent job of sharing the lives and viewpoints of the people who were enslaved here in addition to the standard “plantation tourism”. The fascinating “Journey to Jubilee” tour was led by a historian who pulled no punches regarding the behavior and motivations of the plantation owner. He also asked questions that encouraged all of us on the tour to think critically about what we would have done if we had been enslaved at the time of emancipation and beyond.

Check out Nashville’s neighborhoods

Like so many cities, Nashville is comprised of many neighborhoods with distinctive flair. There’s so much beyond Downtown, so be sure to get out and explore! It’s one of the top options for what to do in Nashville, Tennessee.

One of the closest neighborhoods to Downtown is The Gulch, a trendy area full of hip restaurants and nice hotels. It’s a small area but nice to walk around. While you’re there, stop in for some food at Biscuit Love and consider taking in a bluegrass show at world-famous The Station Inn. If you’re staying Downtown, it’s an easy walk.

Head to Germantown to enjoy 19th century charm of Nashville’s first suburb – but updated to include great restaurants and interesting boutiques. This theme of redevelopment is playing out in many neighborhoods of Nashville and other major American cities. You can hear about Germantown’s history and present on this great Nashville food tour . Germantown is about a 10 minute Uber ride from Downtown.

12 South is another fun Nashville neighborhood to visit. It’s extremely walkable, it’s loaded with boutiques and eateries and there’s street art on just about every corner! While you’re there be sure to stop at Five Daughters Bakery. For a delicious locals-only lunch without the crowds, walk a few blocks off of 12th to Ladybird Tacos. Like Germantown, 12 South is a quick taxi ride from Downtown. We stopped here for a few hours on the way to Belle Meade , as 12 South is on the way.

Nashville travel tips

Overall we found Nashville a pretty easy city to visit, even with very little planning. But there are a few tips for planning a trip to Nashville that it’s worth keeping in mind:

• If you’re on an adults-only trip to Nashville, it’s easy to get by with Uber and Lyft rather than renting a car. It’s obviously important to drive only when you can do so safely, and it’s easier not to have to think about your sobriety. Parking can also be difficult and/or expensive in some parts of the city. On the flip side, if you’re visiting with kids you’ll probably be doing a lot of exploring far from Downtown so renting a car would be a better choice.
• Check the event calendars for popular music venues a week or two advance to give yourself plenty of options for what to see if you’re spending a weekend in Nashville. While there’s always live music in Nashville, ticketed shows sell out regularly even for under-the-radar performers.
• Pace yourself and stay hydrated. Even if you’re just having a drink or two while you listen to great music, it’s easy to run yourself ragged with so much walking in the heat and humidity most of the year.
• If you want to avoid some of Broadway crowds, cigarettes and smells, Demonbreun Street and Commerce Street run parallel just one block away on either side and are much, much more manageable.

Before you go…

Want to fly to Nashville and stay for free? That’s what we did thanks to smart “travel hacking” strategy! Find out more about the best travel credit cards for families to set you on the path to free travel.

The post 5 Great Things to do in Nashville (Besides Party) appeared first on The Family Voyage .

Explore downtown living with the Nashville Downtown Home Tour

Disclaimer: This is sponsored content paid for by Nashville Downtown Partnership. All opinions and views are of the advertiser and does not reflect the same of NewsChannel 5 Nashville.

Ever wonder what it’s like to live downtown? Explore incredible apartments & condos throughout downtown Nashville with breathtaking views at the Nashville Downtown Home Tour.

This self-guided tour offers the opportunity to walk through living spaces for sale, rent, or privately owned - find design inspiration or maybe even your next home!  

The tour takes place on April 21 from noon to 5pm. Free parking is available for ticket holders!

Learn more at https://nashvilledowntown.com/events/downtown-home-tour

Talk of the Town Recipes

• 6 Of The Most Charming Small Towns To Visit In Tennessee

While well known for its rich cultural heritage (hello Nashville !) and the stunning natural beauty of places like the Great Smoky Mountains , Tennessee also offers adventurous travelers no end of attractive small towns to visit. The best of them provide a little bit of everything visitors look for in a destination and boast a compelling blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness that reveal plenty about the “Volunteer State” and its citizens. From the storytelling capital of the USA , Jonesborough, to the tranquil Smokies retreat of Townsend, as well as the lakeside allure of Dandridge and the rich forests surrounding Tellico Plains, these six most charming small towns in Tennessee offer no end of fun things to do.

Rogersville

Located in northern Tennessee , Rogersville boasts one of the most charming downtown districts in the South. Part of the National Register of Historic Places , Rogersville Historic District is a delightful area to explore on foot, its layout unchanged since it was laid out around 1786. Notable buildings include the Hawkins County Courthouse, dating from 1836, and Overton Lodge, constructed in 1840. Just outside the downtown core, the Swift Museum is dedicated to the town's rich history and offers interesting insights into local heritage, while the Local Artists Gallery showcases the work of regional creatives.

Events like the Heritage Days celebration, organized by the Rogersville Heritage Association, offer a good excuse to visit. Held over three days each October, this fun festival features craft vendors, live music, and tasty local foods to enjoy. For a truly memorable visit, book a night or two at the historic Hale Springs Inn, built in 1824 and still going strong.

Tellico Plains

Its location off the I-75 between Knoxville and Chattanooga makes Tellico Plains an ideal place to visit for a day trip or a stop-over on a longer road trip. The big draw here is the town’s stunning Appalachian wilderness setting, as well as its proximity to Cherokee National Forest , a 650,000-acre site that offers fun hiking, fishing, and camping experiences. Be sure to include a visit to Bald River Falls on your itinerary; this spectacular cascading waterfall is a favorite spot for photographers, especially during the autumn months.

Tellico Plains is also where you can pick up one of Tennessee’s most popular scenic drives, the Cherohala Skyway. Stretching for 43 miles, this National Scenic Byway starts in Tellico Plains and winds its way through the Smoky Mountains to Robbinsville, North Carolina, with plenty of scenic viewpoints along the way. Another must-visit is the Charles Hall Museum with its displays and artifacts relating to Appalachian history.

It’s for good reason that Townsend is known as "The Peaceful Side of the Smokies." Located mid-way between Gatlinburg and Maryville, this charming Appalachian community is a lot less commercial than its neighbors, making it an ideal base from which to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park … without the crowds. A highlight of a visit is the Tuckaleechee Caverns with its impressive underground waterfall (guided tours are available). Hiking is popular here, too, with numerous routes accessible from the town, along with bike and horse riding trails.

The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum is another must-visit. Highlights here include exhibits about the railways and logging that opened the region up to settlement, including a restored locomotive and logging caboose.

Jonesborough

Tucked away in the north of Tennessee, close to the state border with Virginia , Jonesborough’s location close to the junction of the I-81 and I-26 highways means this charming town is easy to get to. Founded in 1779 before Tennessee was even a state (that event occurred 25 years later), Jonesborough's rich heritage is visible in its well-preserved architecture. A highlight is Chester Inn State Historic Site and Museum, housed in the town's oldest commercial building and providing a fascinating glimpse into life in the late 1700s through artifacts and exhibitions.

Jonesborough is also celebrated as the "Storytelling Capital of the World" as it’s home to the International Storytelling Center. In addition to hosting the annual National Storytelling Festival, which draws visitors and storytellers from across the globe, this first-rate cultural facility also offers year-round programs to preserve and advance the art of storytelling.

Dandridge is located just 30 miles east of Knoxville on the shores of Douglas Lake. Tennessee's second oldest town (Jonesborough’s the oldest) was founded in 1783 and is notable as the only town in the USA named after George Washington ’s wife, Martha Dandridge Washington. One of the prettiest and best-preserved main streets in the South , it’s great to explore on foot, especially if you include landmarks like the Jefferson County Courthouse, an attractive building constructed in 1845, on your walking tour.

The man-made Douglas Lake is another big draw and is popular for boating, fishing, and swimming, as well as for enjoying a lakeside picnic or family outing. A quirky attraction that’s fun to check out, Bush's Visitor Center features exhibits relating to North America ’s best-selling baked beans.

Leipers Fork

Although more a village than a town -its population is only about 600 people - Leiper's Fork is well worth including on any Tennessee travel itinerary. Just 26 miles southwest of downtown Nashville , this often-overlooked community offers a memorable slice of authentic Southern life. Highlights include its quaint collection of unique shops and galleries, including the Leiper’s Creek Gallery with its displays of work by local artists. Although a short drive outside the village, Leiper's Fork Distillery offers a deep dive into the craft of Tennessee whiskey making with guided tours, sampling, and shopping.

Other fun things to do in Leipers Fork include taking in a show, a movie, or even a c concert at the famous Lawnchair Theater or using the village as a springboard to explore the scenic beauty of Middle Tennessee.

The Final Word

These six Tennessee small towns encapsulate the very essence of the Volunteer State. From the historic streets of Jonesborough to the lovely scenery around Townsend and from the village-like appeal of Leiper’s Fork to the lakeside fun to be had in Dandridge, each of these great places to visit in Tennessee offers a unique slice of Southern hospitality. Be inspired by this list of six of the most charming small towns to visit in Tennessee.

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17 Places to Visit in Moscow on a Budget

Looking for honest, low-cost tips on what to do in Moscow? Here is my suggestion on places to visit in Moscow, which I created during my three-month stay in this Russian metropole.

Before we jump to the top places to visit in Moscow let’s talk about the transportation you will need to use. Ideally, you should get a map of Moscow that includes the metro map. If you love to carry a printed version with you, I suggest getting the Lonely Planet Moscow Travel Guide that includes the metro map. If you are fine without it, you should at least download the offline version of Google Maps to make it easier to navigate in Moscow.

Without further ado, let’s dive into the best things to do in Moscow.

Table of Contents

1. Visit the Red Square

The Red Square is without a doubt the most iconic place to visit in Moscow. It is located in the heart of Moscow close to the metro station Ploshchad’ Revolyutsii (blue line) , surrounded by the Kremlin and the famous shopping center GUM.

From the Red Square you can also visit further points of interest such as the St. Basil’s Cathedral, Kremlin, the Lenin Mausoleum or the Bolshoi Moskevsky most , which is a great spot to take pictures from.

The Red Square is on top of the list of places to visit Moscow since you can’t skip this when doing some sightseeing in Moscow.

The St. Basil’s Cathedral is beautiful to look at but not as breathtaking from the inside. If you are on a budget it is not a “must-visit” place in Moscow.

Click here to bookmark the location of the Red Square

2. Visit Lenin’s Mausoleum

Right in the middle of the Red Square, you will notice a strange building which will remind you on a pyramid. This is Lenin’s Mausoleum.

I highly recommend you to not skip this tourist attraction in Moscow. It’s an experience by itself. The area is surrounded by Russian soldiers which monitor every step you make.

Just make sure you are polite and show some respect when visiting Lenin’s Mausoleum.

There are no entry fees and it’s open daily from 10:00 to 13:00h. Be aware however that it is closed on Mondays and Fridays.

Click here to bookmark the location of Lenin’s Mausoleum

3. Try Russian Food at Teremok

The easiest and cheapest way to try local food is to go to the Russian fast food chain Teremok. You can find them everywhere. There is also one located close to Red Square.

It is a great opportunity to grab some food if you plan on taking the free walking tour , that ends right at Alexander’s Garden. Even if you like to explore Moscow on yourself. Alexander’s Garden is a great spot to watch the change of the guards, which might be of interest to you.

When it comes to Russian food I suggest you go for the Blini (Russian pancakes filled with various toppings) and Syrniki (Russian dessert made from cheesecake).

You can find the Teremok food court in the underground shopping mall next to the Alexander Garden. Learn more about the food I tried in Russia here.

Click here to bookmark the location of the Alexander’s Garden

4. Walk Through the City Center

The great things about Moscow city center are that you can walk to many points of interest by foot. Be aware however that the city center is quite big. Bring enough water with you to keep hydrated. Especially during the summer, it can get very hot.

From Alexander’s Garden, you can walk up the street to Bolshoi Theater and Tverskaya street. I personally enjoyed exploring the side streets where there isn’t too much traffic. You will find a lot of coffee places and local shops that will give you a sneak peek into Russian culture.

If you decide to visit the Bolshoi Theater you can view what’s being performed here . The tickets are usually around 3ooo rubles.

Click here to bookmark the location of the Bolshoi Theater

5. Walk to the Arbat Street

When exploring Moscow you should not miss the Arbat district with its icon Arbat street .

This one-kilometer long street belongs to the oldest streets in Moscow and is the place where you can spot local artist and musicians.

It is one of my favorite streets as it is for pedestrians only so you will not be bothered by any traffic. The best way to get there is by taking the metro blue line to Arbatskaja or walk from Red Square.

Click here to bookmark the location of Arbat street

6. Visit “Moscow City” the Highest Towers in Europe

If you want to admire some “modern” architecture, go see the Moscow city. It’s a complex of the highest skyscrapers in Europe. Apart from the skyscrapers, there is however not much to see.

If you have the budget and enjoy a nice view of the city you can visit the rooftop bar called, Sixty Bar which is located on the 60th floor in one of the towers at Moscow City. , The closest metro station to Moscow city is called Vystavochnaya (light blue line).

If you are on a tight time schedule, you can skip this attraction.

7. Visit VDNKH and the Museum of Cosmonautics

A place yo need to visit in Moscow is the VDNKH complex and the Museum of Cosmonautics. It is one of my favorite places to visit in Moscow.

The Museum of Cosmonautics tells the story behind Russian space exploration. You can also learn about the two dogs Belka and Strelka that made it to space. The entrance is only 200 rubles which is a good deal.

VDNKh is an amusement and exhibition park and in winter the home of the largest ice skating rink in Russia. The atmosphere at VDNKh is great.

Both points of interest are close to each other. The closest metro station is called Prospekt Mira.

Click here to bookmark the location of VDNKh

8. Visit Zarizyno Park

Moscow is full of beautiful parks, one of them is called Tsaritsyno. It’s located approximately one hour south of the city center. If you feel like escaping the noise of busy Moscow this is the place to relax and connect with nature.

You can get to Zarizyno Park with the green line all the way to the Metro Station Tsaritsyno.

Be aware that the visit of the Zarizyno Park will probably take you at least 4 to 5 hours as the park is quite big and it takes a while to get there.

Click here to bookmark the location of the Zarizyno-Park

9. Visit Kolomenskoye

Another place to visit in Moscow is the former royal estate complex called Kolomenskoye. This place is a bit off the beaten path and is usually not visited by many tourists. You can connect the visit with the above mentioned Zarizyno Park if you have some days left in Moscow and you need a break from the city center.

The walk around Kolomenskoye gives you a better impression of the Russian culture as it is located in one of Moscow’s suburbs.

Click here to bookmark the location of Kolomenskoye

10. Visit the Gorki Park the Riverside of Moskva

Closer to the city center, right next to the river Moskva you will find Gorki Park. In summer this spot is the place to go, relax, socialize and enjoy the vibes at the river. In winter it’s a great spot for ice skating.

It is a good place for a date as well :)

Click here to bookmark the location of Gorki Park

11. Watch an Ice Hockey Game

If you happen to be in Moscow around the ice hockey season you need to visit one of the games. A thing to do in Russia is to see a KHL ice hockey game.

The atmosphere is absolutely worth it. The tickets start at 200 rubles and you can buy it in front of the stadium or buy it online. View the schedule of upcoming games here .

Click here to bookmark the location of the VTB Arena

12. Visit the Moscow State University MGU

The building of the Lomonosov Moscow State University is one of the seven sisters, a group of seven skyscrapers which look the same. If you ever visit Moscow you will notice that there are few buildings which look alike.

This one is located south of the city close to the metro station Universitet and Vorobyovy Gory. You will need to walk for another 40 minutes from the metro station to get there.

The building is quite impressive, unfortunately, you can’t access it without a valid student ID, but you can enjoy the view over the city from the observation deck in front of it.

I would suggest visiting this place also only if you have more days to spare in Moscow as it’s quite far from other points of interest.

Click here to bookmark the location of the MGU

13. Izmaylovo Kremlin and Market

A place that you should however not skip is the Izmaylovo Kremlin.

Did you know that Moscow has more than one Kremlin? This one is located in the east at the metro station Partizanskaja (dark blue line).

I personally prefer this Kremlin over the one on Red Square, which is not worth visiting in my opinion. Izmaylovo Kremlin is however definitely a place to visit in Moscow.

At the Izmaylovo Kremlin, you can find a market where people sell various Russian products. It’s also a great place to buy some souvenirs for a much better price than in the center. Here you can always negotiate if you dare :)

Apart from the market, you need to try another Slavic specialty Shashlik, the best one I have had in Russia was here. The Izmaylovo Kremlin is a must-visit place in Moscow.

You can also walk through the nearby park from where you can have a quite impressive view on the Kremlin.

Click here to bookmark the location of the Izmaylovo Kremlin

14. Visit Krutitskoe Podvorye

Krutitskoe Podvorye is another off the beaten path attraction. It’s a historical building, built some 400 years ago although it looks much older.

It’s really impressive and worth the visit if you have time to spare in Moscow. It’s a few minutes walk from the metro station Proletarskaya (purple line).

Click here to bookmark the location of the Krutitskoe Podvorye

15. Explore Novodevichy Convent

Similar to the visit of Krutitskoe Podvorye Novodevichy Convent is also a place to visit if you have planned more time for Moscow. It is probably the best-known cloister in Moscow.

It’s interesting to look at and surrounded by a lake which creates a cozy atmosphere. From here you can also get a nice view of the skyline with the Moscow City in the background.

Click here to bookmark the location of the Novodevichy Convent

16. Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is by far the most impressive cathedral in Moscow. It’s gigantic and absolutely worth the visit.

You should definitely include it to your list of things to do in Moscow. It’s just a short walk from Kremlin and the entrance is free.

Click here to bookmark the location of the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

17. Moscow’s Metro Tour

If you have not noticed yet, Moscow is also known for the most beautiful metro stations.

All of them are unique in their own way. My favorite is the Mayakovskaya station (dark green line).

You can read more about metro sightseeing in Moscow in my post about Metro sightseeing in Moscow . If you happen to be in Moscow on a rainy weekend, driving around and do some sightseeing of Moscow’s metro station can be a fun thing to do. During the week it’s mostly too crowded to be able to even take a picture of the metro station.

If you are intersted in to learn about the stories of Moscow’s metro, I suggest you book a guided tour. 

Planning a short trip to Moscow?

As you can imagine, to visit all of the above-mentioned places in Moscow is not possible within a few days. If you plan to stay in Moscow just for about three to four days these are the places you need to visit in Moscow.

Places to visit in Moscow in three days:

• Red Square, Alexander’s Garden, Lenin’s Mausoleum, Cathedral of the Christ the Saviour
• Izmaylovo Kremlin and Market, Gorki park, Arbat street
• VDNKH and the Museum of Cosmonautics

Here are a few suggestions for accommodation for your trip to Moscow:

Hostels from 8,76 EUR per night: Godzillas Hostel / Vagabond Hostel / Kremlin Lights

Mid-Range from 61 EUR per night: Holiday Inn Moscow Sokolniki / Vega Izmailovo Hotel & Convention Center / Moscow Point – Red October

Luxury from 99 EUR per night: Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre / Hotel Sadovnicheskaya / Savoy

This post about things to do in Moscow covers the most interesting places I have visited during my three months stay in Moscow.

What I love about this city is that most of the activities are for free compared to many other western cities where you need a much higher budget.

Travelers who only have a few hours to explore Moscow should book a tour to get the most of their time. This Moscow Tour covers all the major sights of the city in one day. 

If you plan to visit St. Petersburg don’t forget to check my post about cool places to visit here .

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19 comments.

I did 15 out of 17 and can say, that everything is worth seeing. Nice list :-)

Thanks Markus, I am glad you enjoyed it :)

Wow, Moscow has so much to offer! :) I bet some of those things are free of charge. Me and Cez are planning to visit the city this summer. We would definitely visit the Gorky Park and walk at the riverside of Moskva :)!

indeed Agness :) be sure to plan a longer stay, Moscow is huge and it takes quite some time to see everything, if you have the time also check out St. Petersburg, you can get there by train (cheap if you book in advance) if you need some help with that let me know :)

Wow! Moscow looks beautiful, I have always wanted to visit Russia. St. Petersburg in particular. One day… Thanks for sharing your journey

You are welcome Shelly, I am glad you like it, St. Petersburg is great, you will love it. I have also published a post about Things to do in St. Petersburg feel free to check it out if you want :)

Thank you for a nice list. I really hope to be able to visit Moscow one day soon :)

Glad I could help you out :)

By chance we found the Cosmonautic Museum is free on the 3rd Sunday in every month. Moscow is just unbelievable…I need to go back to see more.

I did not know that, thanks for your comment, I am glad you enjoyed the city :)

Thank you for the article. These are all I want to see in Moscow. I am sure I will like their food.

You are welcome Kishor, my favorite food experience was at Izmaylovo Kreml, go for saslik :)

So many architectural gems! Even their metros look like art galleries. Will totally use these recommendations, thanks!!

Thanks for the interesting and helpful article. I am in Moscow right now with my teenage son and we’re looking for more things to do. Now we have few more ideas! Thank you!

You are welcome Joanna, enjoy the trip :)

I am gonna visit Moscow this June. But I will be there for only 5 days. I don’t think I will be able to cover it all in just 5 days. So, which ones are must visit places out of these? I am curious. And are there any places where we can interact with the locals and experience true Russian culture? Thanks for this post though! I am very excited!

Hi Lakshya, 5 days is indeed to short for Moscow. It takes at least two weeks to explore the city (visit the main points of interest). Definitely check out the (day 1) red square, mausoleaum, (day 2) vdnkh, (day 3) Izmaylovo Kremlin, (day 4) Arbatskaya street. While moving through the city you will have the chance to explore the Metro stations as well (better on the weekends when it’s not that busy). Also check out one of their “Anti-cafe” concepts such as the one called Ziferblat :)

Very interesting & informative. Plan to visiting Russia end of December this year. 5 days Moscow, 4 days St. Petersburg, and 5 days Murmanks. Thanks 🙏❤

Hope you will enjoy it! Don’t forget to get some shashlik ;)

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Your 48-hour tour guide of Moscow this winter!

9 am – Visit the Red Square 

Christmas market on Red Square

The first thing that every tourist should do by default is visit the very heart of Moscow – it’s main and most beautiful (which ‘krasnaya’ actually meant in Old Russian) square! 

There are several ways to explore it:

• Take a selfie with Spasskaya Tower
• Have a warm drink at the Christmas market (which lasts until mid-January)
• Visit Lenin’s Mausoleum
• Shop in the gorgeous adjacent GUM department store
• Visit St. Basil’s Cathedral (and learn that it’s actually several churches under one roof).           

11 am – It’s Kremlin time! 

Inside the Moscow Kremlin

Entering the Kremlin is, actually, a bit of a quest, as it’s a presidential facility with no general access. You need to buy a ticket or, better still, book a guided tour. Inside the Kremlin’s walls, you will find ancient cathedrals, in which Russian tsars used to be crowned and buried, as well as explore the magnificent architecture of the Kremlin that reflects the rich history of the country. And, finally, you could also make a quick visit to the Moscow Kremlin Museums and admire artifacts from various Russian tsarist eras: carriages, thrones, crowns and the most incredible armory and jewelry. 

For more information, visit the official website of the Kremlin . It’s open from 10 am to 5 pm (and it’s closed on Thursdays) in winter.

2 pm – Watch the changing of the Guard

The honor guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

A very spectacular (and free) thing to do is watch how the honor guard does their ceremonial change at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Eternal Flame, situated in Alexander Garden, right next to the Kremlin wall. Every hour, from 8 am to 8 pm, the 1st Company of the Kremlin (Presidential) Regiment performs this rather old and beautiful tradition. But, be warned, it's often overcrowded. 

3 pm – Enjoy a green oasis just in the center

Florarium in Zaryadye

Just a few steps from the Red Square, you will find the fabulous Zaryadye park. Opened in 2017, it is designed by renowned American architect bureau ‘Diller Scofidio + Renfro’. You can walk among the very cozy botanical decorations and explore Russia’s climate zones, as each of them is represented in dedicated areas, complete with flora from those zones.

The floating bridge in Zaryadye Park

The park also has an underground museum, an “ice cave” and a 3D cinema, where you can take part in a virtual adventure – a flight over Moscow! However, the piece de resistance is a floating boomerang bridge over the Moskva River, one of the best places to take a selfie.

You can also grab a quick lunch or relax with a cup of coffee or tea in the park.

7 pm – Arrange a ballet night

The Bolshoi Theater

Of course, the most fancy way to finish your day in Moscow would be to go to the ballet at the Bolshoi Theater (in a perfect world, to see ‘The Nutcracker’!). However, getting tickets to the Bolshoi is not an easy task and should be done well in advance of your visit. 

But, don’t be upset if you don’t manage to get tickets to the Bolshoi. Moscow has dozens of other options to see a ballet (or opera). No less brilliant performances can be seen in the Stanislavsky and Nemirovich-Danchenko Music Theater or in The State Kremlin Palace (by the way, this is another way to get a quick glimpse inside the Kremlin!).

10:30 pm – Have a late dinner in a fancy restaurant

Dr Zhivago restaurant

There are not so many other cities with such a big choice of restaurants in a range of tastes and styles. In 2021, the authoritative Michelin guide announced their pick of the best of Moscow’s restaurants. And here’s our guide to all the places with Russian cuisine for any budget. But, if you happen to be in the area of the Bolshoi or Nemirovich-Danchenko Theater, then ‘Dr. Zhivago’ would definitely be a nice option (and it’s open around the clock).

DAY 2 

9 am – grab a moscow coffee.

Winter festivities mood in Moscow

Moscow is definitely a coffee city! You can find coffee shops on every corner and they all offer a huge range of drinks. Try a ‘raf’ coffee, a sweet, creamy drink that was created in Russia, or dare to pick one of the very unusual offers, like cheese coffee or a Soviet candy style one (check out our coffee guide here ).

10 am – Take a river cruise

Winter boating along the Moskva River

Another exciting way to explore Moscow is to observe it from the water. Boats cruise along the Moskva River all year round. Most begin their route from the Hotel Ukraine, one of Stalin's ‘Seven Sister’ skyscrapers, and will bring you back to the same spot after passing the medieval Novodevichy Convent, Moscow State University and Luzhniki Stadium, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and giant monument to Peter the Great and many other sightseeings. 

It’s always at optimum temperature inside the boat, which also has huge panoramic windows. Select boats also offer a full dining experience, so it is also a nice place to have breakfast or lunch.

If you are not a water person, then discover other, unusual sides of Moscow – pick one of the activities we’ve prepared for you here ! 

1 pm – Visit ‘Russia’ Expo and taste a bunch of Russian regional cuisines

Russia Expo at VDNKh

Until April 2024, the Soviet-era VDNKh exhibition park is hosting the huge ‘Russia’ expo, with tons of activities and expositions devoted to Russia, its culture, science and nature. Check out our special guide on what to do there!  

An entire ‘House of Russian Cuisine’ has been opened at the expo. You will find 15 food stands with flagship dishes from Kamchatka, Siberia, Karelia and other regions of Russia. Imagine trying a range of cuisines and dishes in one place without even having to travel anywhere, be it Altai pelmeni, Tula kalach or Caucasian pies! A perfect place to grab some lunch.

House of Russian cuisines at VDNKh

The VDNKh exhibition park is a great place to visit, in general! Its pavilions are the perfect example of Stalinit Empire style architecture and you can almost feel as if you’ve traveled back in time! You will also find several interesting museums in the park – devoted to space exploration, Russian history and even a ‘Special Purpose Garage’, which showcases the various vehicles used by the country’s leaders. 

'Sun of Moscow' wheel

And, finally, you can ride Europe's tallest panoramic wheel – ‘Sun of Moscow’ – that will give you panoramic views of the city – from a height of 140 meters!

5 pm – Ice skate with view & mulled wine

Ice skating rink on Red Square (GUM department store on the background)

Ice skating is one of the most popular and affordable activities in Moscow. There are several great ice skating rinks in picturesque locations that are open all winter long. One of the biggest rinks in Europe is also at the aforementioned VDNKh or you can visit the one in Gorky Park, another very popular Moscow spot, or the small, but fancy rink – right on Red Square! 

All the parks offer ice skate rental, so the only things you need are warm clothes, a charged phone to record your memories and a good mood!  Moscow also gets dark at 4:30 pm in winter and hundreds of lights are switched on, turning the city into a giant fairy tale! 

A mulled wine with a view

And, if you are not a sports person, we’ve picked several other unusual activities that you could do in Moscow instead. For example, did you know that there is an entire district of dacha (countryside) houses, just 10 minutes from the center, surrounded by giant new highrises? How about taking a stroll there and feeling the early Soviet atmosphere?

8 pm – Warm up & laugh out loud

After all these outdoor activities, what could be better than a warm cozy bar with a hot drink and nice company? Moscow is a city full of entertainment for all tastes. So, if you know the Russian language or want to practice it, go to a theater or catch a stand-up comedy show. Moscow even has comedy shows in English, where you can hear both Russians speaking fluent English or foreigners (including Brits and Americans) who live in Russia speaking in broken or heavily-accented Russian (Check their show dates on the ‘ Moscow English Comedy ’ Telegram channel)!

11 pm – Finish by partying the night away!

Propaganda club in Moscow

Moscow never sleeps, as you might have heard. Which means there are plenty of bars and nightclubs where you can have a drink (or two or three; be sure to check out how Russians make Black Russian and White Russian cocktails) and chat with incredibly different people. Have fun and don’t miss your flight (or miss it and stay longer in the best city in the world!)!

That's it! See you soon in Moscow

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THE 10 BEST Moscow Historic Walking Areas

Historic walking areas in moscow.

• Architectural Buildings
• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Monuments & Statues
• Historic Sites
• Historic Walking Areas
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3rd Transport Ring (TTK)
• District Central (TsAO)
• Garden Ring
• Boulevard Ring
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)

2. Cathedral Square

3. Nikolskaya Ulitsa

4. Tverskaya Street (Ulitsa)

5. Kuznetsky Most Street

6. Boulevard Ring

7. Manezh Square

8. Kitai-Gorod and Varvarka Street

9. Gostiny Dvor

10. Kamergerskiy Lane

11. Tverskoi Boulevard

12. Bolshaya Nikitskaya street (ulitsa)

13. Myasnitskaya Street

14. Khitrovskaya Square

15. Triumfalnaya Square

16. Bolshaya Dmitrovka Street

17. Povarskaya Street

18. Usadba Altufyevo

19. Lubyanka Square

20. Komsomolskaya Square

21. Maroseyka

22. Mosaic Picture at Gable Facade of Former Printing Office Detskaya Kniga

23. House of Denis Davydov

24. Rozhdestvenskiy Boulevard

25. Bolotnaya Embankment

26. Novaya Basmannaya Street

27. Bolshaya Yakimanka Street

28. Statue of Repin

29. Church of St. John the Baptist

30. Ilyinka Street

What travelers are saying.

• Nikolskaya Ulitsa
• Cathedral Square
• Tverskaya Street (Ulitsa)
• Kuznetsky Most Street
• Manezh Square
• Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)
• Kamergerskiy Lane

Watch CBS News

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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