What comes to your mind when you think of Nashville? Music, of course! This city is famed for its country music roots and its lively music scene. But it’s more than just music. It’s a city with a rich history and culture. You’ll find plenty of things to see and do, whether you’re interested in history or the arts. And with its growing foodie scene, I’m sure you’ll also find plenty to eat. In this article, I’ll share 30 of the best things to do in Nashville to make your visit memorable. Read on!
Things To Do In Nashville
1. See A Live Music Performance At The Grand Ole Opry
The Grand Ole Opry is Nashville’s most famous live music venue. This historic stage has been the home of country music since 1925. Today, the Opry features performances by both up-and-coming and established country artists.
If you’re a country music fan, seeing a show at the Grand Ole Opry should be high on your list of things to do in Nashville. You can take a behind-the-scenes tour of the venue, where you can learn about its history and see some backstage areas. Later, you can watch a live performance from one of the best seats in the house.
After the show, you can grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants within the Grand Ole Opry. Or, if you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, there are several restaurants and bars located near the Opry.
Even if you’re not a big fan of country music, I think you’ll enjoy the experience. There’s something special about seeing a live performance at this historic venue. No wonder it’s one of the most famous attractions in Nashville.
I recommend buying your tickets in advance, as shows often sell out. You can purchase tickets on the Opry website or at the box office. Ticket prices start at around $69.
Address: 2804 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214, United States.
2. Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame
Nashville is known as Music City, so it’s only fitting that it should have a museum dedicated to music. And that’s exactly what you’ll find at the Country Music Hall of Fame.
This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of country music and honoring the artists who have made it so popular. The museum features a number of interactive exhibits, as well as a rotating display of artifacts from Nashville’s musical past.
Some of the things that you’ll see at the Country Music Hall of Fame include instruments, stage costumes, and personal items belonging to famous country music stars. The museum also has a collection of historic photographs and videos. In fact, you can watch archived footage of some of the most iconic performances and interviews.
During my visit, I was able to see a number of interesting exhibits. One that particularly struck me was the historic RCA Studio B exhibit. This is the studio where a number of famous country music songs were recorded, including Elvis Presley’s “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” and Dolly Parton’s “Jolene.”
There is a lot to see and do at the Country Music Hall of Fame. So, if you’re a fan of country music, or even if you’re just interested in learning more about the genre, this is one of the top places in Nashville you should visit.
Admission to the Country Music Hall of Fame is $27 for adults and $17 for students. Children under the age of 6 are free.
Address: 222 5th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203, United States.
3. Take A Tour Of The Parthenon
The Parthenon is a replica of the Greek temple of the same name. It was built in 1897 as part of the Tennessee Centennial Exposition. Today, it serves as an art museum and is one of the most famous attractions in Nashville.
The highlight of the Parthenon is the 42-foot statue of Athena that stands inside the temple. The statue is covered in gold leaf, and it’s an exact replica of the Athena Parthenos that once stood in the original Parthenon in Athens. In addition to the statue of Athena, the Parthenon is also home to a number of other art pieces. The museum’s permanent collection includes paintings, sculptures, and photographs.
The Parthenon is located in Centennial Park, a 132-acre public park that features walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The park is also home to the Centennial Sports Complex, which includes an indoor swimming pool, an ice rink, and a gym. This is another place you can visit if you’re looking for fun things to do in Nashville.
If you’re interested in taking a tour of the Parthenon, I recommend buying a ticket in advance. Tours are led by knowledgeable guides who will share interesting facts about the history of the building and the art inside.
Ticket prices for the Parthenon are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors (above 62) and children (4-17), and free for kids three and under.
Address: 2500 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203, United States.
4. Take A Walk Through Centennial Park
Centennial Park is a 132-acre urban park built to celebrate Tennessee’s 100th anniversary of statehood. And as I mentioned earlier, the park is home to the Parthenon and the Centennial Sports Complex. But, there’s much more to see and do here.
You will learn about the history of Nashville and see a number of sculptures and monuments. But one of the things that I liked most about this park was its scenery. The park is filled with trees, flowers, and green space. It’s the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. And, if you’re looking for a place to take a walk or run, this is definitely it. There are a number of walking trails throughout the park, and they offer a great way to get some exercise.
If you’re visiting Nashville with kids, Centennial Park is also a great place to bring them. The park has a playground and a number of picnic areas. Your kids will also enjoy the Centennial Sportsplex, which is a multi-sport complex that offers a variety of activities for kids of all ages.
I spent a couple of hours walking around the trails and taking in the scenery. I met many friendly people along the way and saw a number of interesting things. Most of all, I enjoyed the peace and tranquility of the park. So when looking for the very best of Nashville attractions, don’t forget to add Centennial Park to your list.
Address: 2500 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203, United States.
5. Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage
Nashville is home to a number of historic sites, and one of the most popular is Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage. This plantation was the home of the seventh president of the United States, and it is now a museum.
The Hermitage was built in 1819 and served as Jackson’s home for over 20 years. After he died in 1845, the plantation was turned into a museum. You can tour the mansion, which is furnished with period furniture. A museum on the property also tells the story of Jackson’s life and presidency.
In addition to the mansion and museum, the Hermitage also features a number of activities and events. This includes wagon rides around the property and themed events.
My trip here was very enjoyable. I learned a lot about Andrew Jackson and early American history. I also got to see a beautiful plantation, which was a nice change of pace from the hustle and bustle of downtown Nashville.
Although the Hermitage is located a bit outside of the city, it’s still one of the points of interest in Nashville that is worth considering. The plantation is beautiful, and the museum is very informative.
Admission to the Hermitage is $26 for adults, $23 for seniors, and $12 for teens.
Address: 4580 Rachels Ln, Hermitage, TN 37076, United States.
6. Learn About The Man In Black At Johnny Cash Museum
If you’re a fan of Johnny Cash, then you’ll want to add the Johnny Cash Museum to your list of things to see in Nashville. This museum is dedicated to the life and work of the late country music legend.
During his lifetime, Johnny Cash profoundly impacted the music industry. He was a superstar who transcended genre, and his influence is still felt today. He won 17 Grammy Awards, sold more than 90 million records, and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Today, this museum celebrates Cash’s legacy. It features interactive exhibits, rare memorabilia, and intimate insights into the Man in Black.
The Johnny Cash Museum is located in downtown Nashville, and its open seven days a week. Admission is $22 for adults, $21 for seniors and youths, and $17 for teens 15 and younger.
Address: 119 3rd Ave S, Nashville, TN 37201, United States.
7. Stroll Down Broadway
Nashville’s Broadway is the city’s main drag and the center of its honky-tonk scene. This stretch of road is lined with bars and restaurants that feature live music. As you stroll down the street, you’ll be treated to the sounds of country, rock, blues, and more.
Many of the bars on Broadway offer free shows, so you can enjoy live music without spending a dime. If you’re looking to save some money, I recommend checking out Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, Robert’s Western World, and Layla’s Bluegrass Inn.
Of course, if you want to see a more famous Nashville act, you’ll have to buy a ticket. But, even then, you’ll be spending less than you would at most concert venues. For example, there are several bars on Broadway that feature live performances by world-famous country artists. These shows are usually much cheaper than seeing the same artist in concert.
In addition to live music, Broadway is also home to a number of restaurants and shops. If you get hungry, I recommend grabbing a bite to eat at Jack’s Bar-B-Que or Peg Leg Porker. And, if you’re looking for a souvenir, be sure to stop by Nashville Boot Co.
I spent a lazy afternoon strolling down Broadway, popping into bars to listen to live music. I had a great time, and I didn’t spend a lot of money. So if you’re looking for fun things to do in Nashville on a budget, this is definitely an activity you should consider.
Ticket prices for the Grand Ole Opry start at $69.
8. Catch A Show At Schermerhorn Symphony Center
As earlier said, Nashville is known as Music City. So, it’s no surprise that the city celebrates all genres of music, not just country. So when looking for Nashville attractions that involve classical music, I recommend visiting the Schermerhorn Symphony Center.
The Schermerhorn Symphony Center is the home of the Nashville Symphony. It’s located in downtown Nashville, and it features a 1,844-seat concert hall. The hall was designed to have excellent acoustics, and it’s one of the best places in Nashville to hear live music.
In addition to classical music, this symphony center also hosts a variety of other genres, including pop, rock, and jazz. So, there’s sure to be a show that appeals to your taste.
If you’re traveling with kids, I recommend checking out one of the Nashville Symphony’s Family Concerts. These concerts are designed to be educational and fun for the whole family.
I watched a violin concerto at the symphony center, and I was really impressed by the quality of the performance. The vibe was also really relaxed, which was nice. I definitely recommend checking out the Schermerhorn Symphony Center if you’re in town.
Ticket prices vary depending on the show. But, the average price is around $147.
Address: 1 Symphony Pl, Nashville, TN 37201, United States.
9. Catch A Show At The Ryman Auditorium
The Ryman Auditorium is a historic concert hall in downtown Nashville. It was built in 1892 and originally served as a church. In 1943, it was converted into a performance venue, and it was here that the Grand Ole Opry first found a home.
The Ryman Auditorium has a long and storied history and continues to be one of Nashville’s top tourist attractions. Visitors can tour the venue, and there is also a museum on site. This museum chronicles the history of the Ryman and the Grand Ole Opry. You can see things like original posters, stage costumes, and instruments.
Of course, catching a show is the best way to experience the Ryman Auditorium. The venue hosts a wide variety of musical acts, and there is sure to be something that you’ll enjoy. I had an opportunity to see a performance by the Nashville Symphony, and the vibe in the room was electric.
Ticket prices for the Ryman Auditorium start at $25, making it one of the more affordable things to do in Nashville.
Address: 116 5th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37219, USA.
10. Take A Scenic Drive Down Natchez Trace Parkway
Sometimes, the best way to see a city is from the comfort of your own car. And when it comes to scenic drives, Nashville’s Natchez Trace Parkway is hard to beat. This 444-mile stretches from Natchez to Nashville. Along the way, you’ll be treated to beautiful views of forests, meadows, and rivers.
The Natchez Trace Parkway was once used by Native Americans and early settlers as a way to travel between Natchez, Mississippi, and Nashville. Today, the parkway is a popular tourist attraction and a great way to see the countryside.
You don’t need to drive the entire length of the parkway to enjoy its beauty. There are numerous access points, so you can easily hop on and off as you please. And if you’re looking for things to do along the way, there are plenty of options. You can go hiking, biking, horseback riding, or picnicking. You can also visit historic sites and museums located along the parkway.
If you have a few hours to kill and are looking for the best things to do in Nashville, I recommend driving down this parkway. It’s a great way to see the city and its surroundings.
11. Explore Downtown Nashville
Ask anybody about the best places to visit in Nashville, and the answer will almost always be “downtown.” Well, there’s a good reason for that. Downtown Nashville is where you’ll find most of the city’s attractions, restaurants, and nightlife.
Start your exploration by strolling down Broadway (I already talked about this street in the previous section). Then, make your way to 2nd Avenue, which is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops. If you’re looking for a place to eat, I recommend Biscuit Love, Five Daughters Bakery, or Peg Leg Porker (I already mentioned this place in the previous section).
After you’ve had your fill of food, walk to the Ryman Auditorium, considered the “mother church of country music.” This historic venue has hosted everyone from Johnny Cash to Garth Brooks. Even if you’re not a country music fan, it’s worth taking a tour of this iconic building.
And, speaking of tours, you should also consider taking a walking tour of downtown Nashville. These tours will take you to some of the most popular tourist attractions in Nashville, including the State Capitol, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and LP Field (home of the Tennessee Titans).
I spent a whole day exploring downtown Nashville, but I still didn’t see everything the area offers. So, if you’re looking for fun activities to do in Nashville, consider spending a day exploring downtown.
12. Visit the Tennessee State Museum
The Tennessee State Museum is a great place to learn about the state’s history and culture. The museum is located adjacent to the State Capitol in downtown Nashville.
The museum’s permanent exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including the state’s Native American heritage, the Civil War, and the Civil Rights Movement. These exhibits are very well done and provide a great overview of Tennessee’s history using a variety of artifacts, photos, and videos.
I was particularly interested in the state’s music and art scene exhibits. The museum does a great job of highlighting the state’s many contributions to these industries. You’ll see some familiar faces, including country music legends like Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton. In addition to the permanent exhibits, the museum also features a number of temporary exhibits. These exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including art, history, and culture.
The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.
Address: 1000 Rosa L Parks Blvd, Nashville, TN 37208, USA.
13. Visit Belle Meade Historic Site
For fans of history, the Belle Meade Historic Site is a must-see. This plantation was once one of the largest and most successful in Tennessee. And although it’s now a shadow of its former self, it’s still an interesting place to visit in Nashville.
This mansion was built in 1845 by John Harding, a wealthy planter and slave owner. At the time of its construction, it was one of the most impressive homes in the state. And during the 1864 Civil War, the union and confederate armies fought in front of the house front yard. This is evident by the bullet holes that can still be seen in the facade of the mansion.
Today, this mansion is open to the public for tours. Visitors can see how the plantation owners lived, as well as how the slaves were treated. The tours are very informative and give you a good sense of what life was like during that time. In addition to the mansion, there are also a number of other buildings on the property that you can explore.
I found the Belle Meade Historic Site to be very interesting. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for informative things to do in Nashville.
Address: 5025 Harding Pike, Nashville, TN 37205, USA.
14. View Vintage Cars at Lane Motor Museum
Are you a car enthusiast? Well, even if you’re not, I think you’ll enjoy a visit to the Lane Motor Museum. This museum is home to an impressive collection of wonderful and one-of-a-kind vehicles. Most of the cars on display are European, and many are quite rare. Some of the standouts in the collection include the 1933 Dymaxion Replica, 1932 Helicron, 1946 Hewson Rocket, and 1951 Hoffmann.
In addition to cars, the Lane Motor Museum also has a collection of motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles. Guided tours of the museum are available, and they last about an hour. These tours are a great way to learn about the history of the vehicles on display. You can also take a self-guided tour, but I think the guided tours are worth it.
I spent a couple of hours at the Lane Motor Museum and truly enjoyed myself. Just being around all of those vintage cars and motorcycles was a treat. So if you have some time to spare and don’t know what to do in Nashville, I recommend checking out this museum.
Admission to the Lane Motor Museum is $12 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $3 for children ages 6-17.
Address: 702 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville, TN 37210, USA.
15. Take A Cruise On General Jackson Showboat
The General Jackson Showboat is a 274-foot, four-deck riverboat that offers cruises on the Cumberland River. The boat is modeled after the paddle-wheelers that were popular in the 19th century.
Therefore, there’s nothing quite interesting like taking a cruise on the Cumberland River while enjoying live music and entertainment. The boat offers a variety of cruises, including lunch and dinner cruises, as well as sightseeing and entertainment cruises. And during the cruise, you’ll be able to enjoy a variety of shows and performances as well as see some of the best attractions in Nashville.
I took the lunch cruise, which lasted about two and a half hours. The cruise included a buffet lunch, as well as live entertainment. I enjoyed the live music, and I was also able to get a good view of the city from the river.
The Showboat is a great way to see Nashville from the water. And, if you’re looking for the best things to do in Nashville with kids, this is definitely an activity that they’ll enjoy.
Tickets for the General Jackson Showboat start at $45 for adults and $30 for children. But note that the price of your ticket will depend on the type of package that you choose. The higher the price, the more inclusive your package will be.
16. Make a Recording at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum
You can’t come to Nashville without paying homage to the city’s musical roots. And there’s no better place to do that than at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum. Don’t confuse this museum with the Country Music Hall of Fame, which mainly features country artists.
The Musicians Hall of Fame is dedicated to honoring the talented men and women who have made Nashville the Music City. It features all genres of music, including country, rock, jazz, and more. In addition, the museum highlights not only the Nashville artists, but also other musicians from Los Angeles, New York, Muscle Shoals, and Motown.
The museum offers a number of interactive exhibits that let you experience what it’s like to be a musician. For example, you can step into a recording studio and lay down a track. Or, you can get on different stages where Jimi Hendrix performed. There are many other things to see and do at the museum, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time to explore. You can even try making your own music with the interactive exhibits.
And being one of the top tourist spots in Nashville, the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum is a great place to bring the kids. They have a number of things to keep children entertained and educational things to learn.
The Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum is open Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Admission to the museum is $28 for adults, $26 for seniors, $15 for children (6-17), and free for children under 6.
Address: 401 Gay St, Nashville, TN 37219, USA.
17. Visit Exotic Friends at Nashville Zoo
If you’re looking for exciting things to do in Nashville with kids, why not visit the Nashville Zoo? This unique zoo is home to more than 3,000 animals from all over the world, representing over 350 species. This makes it one of the 9th largest zoos in the United States.
Some of the animals that you’ll see at the Nashville Zoo include Sumatran tigers, toucans, Baird tapirs, clouded leopards, and much more. All these animals are not enclosed in cages; instead, they live in naturalistic habitats that mimic their home environments.
In addition to its impressive animal collection, the zoo also offers a number of educational programs and fun activities for kids. For example, the zoo offers Wilderness Express, Wild animal Carousel rides, The Soaring Eagle Zip Line, and Jungle Gym.
The Nashville Zoo is located about 6 miles south of downtown. It’s a nice place to spend an afternoon enjoying the animals and the outdoors.
Admission to the zoo is $25 for adults, $16 for teens, and $21 for children ages 2-12.
Address: 3777 Nolensville Pike, Nashville, TN 37211, United States.
18. Have Fun At Cumberland Park
Want to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the city? Then head to Cumberland Park. This 6.5-acre park sits on the banks of the Cumberland River, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the fresh air.
Cumberland Park features a number of great amenities, including a playground, walking trails, a bike path, and a splash pad. My favorite part of the park is the splash pad. It’s a great place to cool off on a hot day and have some fun.
There’s also an amphitheater where you can catch live music in the summer months. The amphitheater can accommodate up to 1,200 people, so it’s a great place to see a show if you’re looking for free things to do in Nashville.
And if you need a break from the sun or just want to relax, you can find shade under one of the park’s many trees. This is where you’ll find most couples spending time at the park and enjoying a little picnic.
The park is open daily from dawn to 11 pm. And, best of all, it’s free to enter. So, if you’re looking for awesome things to see in Nashville that don’t cost a lot of money, Cumberland Park is a great option.
Address: 592 S 1st St, Nashville, TN 37213, United States.
19. Have Fun at Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center
The Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center is one of the largest hotels in the United States. With 2,880 rooms and nine acres of indoor gardens, the Gaylord Opryland is truly a sight to behold.
The hotel is just minutes from downtown Nashville, making it the perfect base for exploring the city. But, with so much to see and do at the resort, you may never want to leave! This resort features waterfalls, pools, gardens, plants, and fountains in a glass-enclosed atrium. Boat rides are also available if you want to explore the hotel’s indoor gardens and jungle paths from the comfort of a boat.
If all these have not tempted you, the Gaylord Opryland also has a spa, a fitness center, and a golf course. In other words, this is not your average hotel. And with so much to do, it’s easy to spend a few days here without getting bored.
A trip to this convention center is one of the best things to do in Nashville with family. This is a great place where you can spend time with your kids and create amazing memories. And, best of all, it’s located just minutes from all the best Nashville attractions. So you can easily enjoy both the resort and the city.
However, spending a day at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center can be a bit pricey. Rooms start at $429 per night. But you don’t have to spend the night to enjoy the resort. You can also buy a day pass for $50 per person.
Address: 2800 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214, United States.
20. Stroll Down Music Row
Music Row is a must-see for any music fan. This stretch of road is home to more than 200 music-related businesses, including record labels, publishing houses, recording studios, video production houses, music licensing firms, and other music-related businesses. In short, this is where Nashville’s music industry is headquartered, and it’s definitely worth a visit.
There are many things to do and see on Music Row. You can take a self-guided tour of the area or simply stroll down the street and take in the sights and sounds. One of the highlights of my visit was seeing the historic RCA Studio B, where Nashville legends such as Dolly Parton and Elvis Presley recorded some of their most famous songs. There are also galleries, museums, and shops that are worth checking out.
Take your time exploring Music Row. There’s a lot to see and do, and you’re sure to find something that interests you. In addition, music row is centrally located, so it’s a great place to start your exploration of Nashville.
Address: 16th/17th Ave. South – Division Street and Music Square, Nashville, TN, USA.
21. Tour the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and Museum
Tennessee is not just a great place for music lovers; it’s also a great place for sports fans. And if you’re a sports fan, you’ll definitely want to check out the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and Museum.
This museum is dedicated to honoring the accomplishments of Tennessee athletes, such as Peyton Manning, Jalen Reeves-Maybin, Daren Bates, and Reggie Grimmes. It features college football and basketball exhibits, two 30-seat theaters with sports videos, interactive games, and many more.
The most popular exhibit in the museum is the newly opened Pat Summitt exhibit. This exhibit showcases displays of Olympians, legendary athletes, steeplechases, and much more. Allocate at least 1-2 hours to explore the museum so you can see everything it offers.
Kids can enjoy the interactive exhibits where they can wear a football jersey, shoot a basketball, or take a penalty shot in hockey. This makes it one of the great activities in Nashville with kids.
The museum is open from 10 am to 4 pm, Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is $3 for adults and $2 for children.
Address: 501 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203, United States.
22. Take In The Sights Of Tennessee State Prison
Looking for unusual attractions in Nashville? Then you need to visit the Tennessee State Prison. This former prison opened in 1898 and operated for almost a century. During that time, it housed some of the most notorious criminals in Tennessee history, including James Earl Ray, the man who assassinated Martin Luther King Jr.
During its years of operation, the prison tortured and killed dozens of inmates. Solitary confinement was used as a form of punishment. Inmates were also beaten and electrocuted. As a result, the prison earned a reputation as one of the country’s most brutal and inhumane jails.
The Tennessee State Prison closed its doors in 1992, but its legacy lives on. And although the prison is not open to the public, you can still marvel at its imposing architecture from the outside. It features spiked towers and chamber windows that are reminiscent of a medieval castle.
Several movies have been filmed at the Tennessee State Prison, including The Green Mile and Against the Wall. So, even if you’re not interested in its dark history, the prison is still worth a visit.
I was told that you could sign up for ghost tours of the prison, but I didn’t have time to do that. If you’re interested in taking a tour, I recommend checking out The Ghost of Nashville Walking Tour.
Address: 6404 Centennial Blvd, Nashville, TN 37209, USA.
23. Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory
Maybe you’re not into country music. Maybe you’re more of a science geek. If that’s the case, I recommend spending an evening at Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory.
Located about 14 miles from downtown Nashville, Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory is a great place to catch a glimpse of the stars. They offer public telescope viewings, planetarium shows, and astronomy classes.
During my visit, the observatory organized an event called “Laser Friday.” This included a laser light show as well as a talk about constellations. There were also music performances from local artists and a band called.
After the show, the staff brought telescopes out so that we could take a closer look at the stars. I was curious to learn more about astronomy, and I enjoyed being able to see different constellations up close. The staff was very knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions that we had.
If you’re interested in spending an evening at Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory, I recommend checking their website for upcoming events. This is because a trip here is definitely one of the best things to do in Nashville for science lovers and curious minds.
Admission prices vary, but they offer discounts for students, seniors, and children.
Address: 1000 Oman Dr, Brentwood, TN 37027, United States.
24. Enjoy Nature at Warner Parks
Want to get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Nashville? Then head to Warner Parks. This massive nature preserve is located just a few miles from the city center and offers a welcome respite from the concrete jungle.
Warner Parks is made up of two main parks: Edwin and Percy Warner Parks. Together, these parks span more than 2,600 acres. And they offer a number of trails that are perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. This means that there are plenty of opportunities to get some fresh air and enjoy the great outdoors.
In addition to its many trails, Warner Parks is also home to a golf course, a nature center, and a number of scenic vistas. So, no matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to enjoy at this massive nature preserve.
I loved the peace and quiet that I found at Warner Parks. And, even though it’s just a few miles from downtown Nashville, it feels like a world away. This makes it one of the best places in Nashville if you want to relax and recharge.
Address: 50 Vaughn Rd, Nashville, TN 37221, United States.
25. Enjoy Nature at Long Hunter State Park
Tennessee is home to a number of beautiful state parks, but Long Hunter State Park is one of the best. This is because it pays homage to the native people who once inhabited the area.
As you hike through the park, you’ll see signs that explain the history of the land and its original inhabitants. You’ll also find a number of Native American artifacts, including arrowheads, pottery, and tools. In addition to its historical significance, Long Hunter State Park is also a great place to enjoy nature. The park features more than 20 miles of hiking trails, as well as picnic areas and playgrounds. You can also swim, fish, and boat in the park’s two lakes.
Every year, Long Hunter State Park hosts a number of events, including the annual NAIA Education Pow Wow, which celebrates the Native American culture. This is a great event for families, as it features live music, dance performances, and craft demonstrations.
Although I did not have the opportunity to attend the annual NAIA Pow Wow event, I did hike a few of the trails and explored the park’s lakes. I had a great time and was impressed by the park’s historical significance. So if you’re looking for the top things to see in Nashville, this is an attraction that you should add to your list.
Address: 2910 Hobson Pike, Hermitage, TN 37076, United States.
26. Take a Hike to Radnor Park
Radnor Park is over 1,300-acre nature preserve that’s located just outside of Nashville. The park features hiking trails, a lake, and a variety of plant and animal life.
Radnor Park is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. This is especially true in the spring and fall when the leaves change color. Most of the trips to this park mainly focus on sightseeing and enjoying the scenery. Swimming is not recommended in the lake in order to protect its ecosystem.
There are over 10 miles of hiking trails in Radnor Park, so you can definitely get your steps in while you’re here. The trails range in difficulty from easy to moderate, and they offer a variety of different scenic views.
I wandered around the park for a few hours, taking in the sights and sounds of nature. I saw a number of birds and squirrels, and I even saw a snake sunning itself on a rock. Overall, I had a great time exploring Radnor Park, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for fun activities in Nashville.
Address: 1160 Otter Creek Rd, Nashville, TN 37220, USA.
27. Get A Taste Of Nashville’s Culinary Scene
Nashville is known for its music scene, but its culinary scene is also worth exploring. There are a number of things to do in Nashville for foodies, and I would argue that one of the best things to do is simply to eat your way through the city.
There are plenty of places to eat in Nashville, but if you’re looking for a true taste of the city, I recommend checking out some local food trucks. These trucks serve up a variety of cuisines, and they’re a great way to try something new.
In addition to food trucks, there are also a number of restaurants that are worth checking out. If you’re looking for a casual meal, I recommend Puckett’s or Peg Leg Porker. For something a little more upscale, I suggest The Catbird Seat or Rolf and Daughters.
I’m a big fan of food, so I was really happy to wander around and explore Nashville’s culinary scene. Some of the popular dishes that I tried included hot chicken, barbecue, and southern comfort food. I had a great time, and I was able to get a feel for the city’s food culture. No matter what kind of food you’re in the mood for, you’ll find it in Nashville.
28. Learn About Nashville’s Civil War history at the Fort Negley Visitor Center
Nashville was an important city during the Civil War, and there are a number of things to see and do that relate to this period in history. So one of the top attractions in Nashville for history buffs is the Fort Negley Visitor Center.
This center tells the story of Fort Negley, which was built by Union troops in 1862. The fort was an important part of the union’s defense of Nashville and played a key role in the Battle of Nashville. The visitor center features a number of exhibits that tell the story of the fort and the battle. There are also interactive displays that bring history to life.
After spending some time at the visitor center, I walked over to Fort Negley Park. This park is home to the remains of the fort, as well as a monument that honors the Union soldiers who lost their lives in the Battle of Nashville.
If you’re interested in learning about Nashville’s Civil War history, I recommend starting with a visit to the Fort Negley Visitor Center. This is a great activity for those who want to learn more about this period in American history.
Address: 1100 Fort Negley Blvd, Nashville, TN 37203, USA.
29. Enjoy Nashville Nightlife
Nashville is known for its live music, and the city’s nightlife scene is just as vibrant. There are a number of bars and clubs that feature live music, and many of them are open until the wee hours of the morning. So, if you’re looking for the best things to do in Nashville at night, this is definitely an activity that you should consider.
Of course, one of the most popular streets in Nashville for nightlife is Broadway. This stretch of road is lined with bars and clubs that feature live music. As you stroll down the street, you’ll be treated to the sounds of country, rock, blues, and more. Many of the bars on Broadway offer free shows, so you can enjoy live music without spending a dime.
Another popular nightlife spot in Nashville is 2nd Avenue. This street is home to a number of bars and clubs, as well as a few restaurants. 2nd Avenue is a great place to go if you’re looking for fun places to visit in Nashville on a Saturday night.
There are also a number of Nashville bars that are popular with the locals. These bars are usually crowded and offer a more intimate setting. So, if you want to see some live music and meet some locals, you can check them out.
30. Have Fun at Nashville Shores
On a hot summer day, there’s nothing better than cooling off at a water park. And Nashville Shores is one of the best water parks in the area. Nashville Shores is located on Percy Priest Lake, about 10 miles from downtown.
The park features a number of slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. There’s also a children’s play area with several smaller slides and a spray ground. In addition, the park offers a number of other activities, including mini golf, volleyball, and zip-line.
I did find that the park was a bit crowded during my visit. However, I was still able to find a spot to relax and enjoy the day. I loved floating down the lazy river and zip-lining. There are also a number of food options available, so you won’t go hungry.
If you go to Nashville Shores, I recommend that you buy your tickets in advance. You can save a few bucks by doing so.
Address: 4001 Bell Rd, Hermitage, TN 37076, United States.
In Summary
You can’t deny that Nashville is a city with a lot to offer. I had a great time exploring the city and its many attractions. Best of all, I didn’t spend a lot of money. So start planning your trip, and be sure to add some of these best things to and see in Nashville to your list.
