Things to do in Nashville

Lindsay

From Lindsay's guidebook

If you are looking for something to do, check out what is going on at Bridgestone Arena. They have events almost daily ranging from professional hockey games (Home of the Nashville Predators), concerts, Monster truck ralliers, PBR, Disney on Ice, etc.

Ashley

From Ashley's guidebook

This 20,000 person arena is nestled among the honky-tonks on Broadway and serves as home of Nashville's NHL hockey team (Go Preds!). However, when the team is out of town, it is also Nashville's premier large-scale music venue. All of the A-listers have concert stops here and it is absolutely worth checking out a show. (insider tip: get there early enough for the national anthem...it is not uncommon for Nashville's biggest stars to make a surprise appearance to perform)

Keneetha

From Keneetha's guidebook

Nashville’s premier concert and sports venue right on Broadway, home to the Nashville Predators and major events like concerts, award shows, and games. With space for up to 20,000 guests, it’s the place to experience big-name artists and high-energy events in Music City.

Keneetha

From Keneetha's guidebook

Home of the Tennessee Titans and major concerts, this iconic stadium offers high-energy games and large-scale events with amazing skyline views just across the river from downtown. Perfect for: Football games, big concerts, and bucket-list Nashville experiences

Bedmore

From Bedmore's guidebook

Don’t just head straight into the stadium — come 45–60 minutes early and take the Riverfront pedestrian path behind Nissan Stadium. You’ll get incredible skyline views, local food vendors often pop up along the way, and you can feel the pre-game buzz building as fans gather along the Cumberland River. It’s one of the most underrated photo spots in Nashville. If it’s a Titans game or a major concert, check out the East Concourse fan zones before kickoff/showtime. You’ll find live music, merch, giveaways, and sometimes surprise appearances — an awesome way to kickstart the experience.

Jessica Joy Tammaro

From Jessica Joy Tammaro's guidebook

Attend a concert or Titan's Game! Located a short walk away just over the pedestrian bridge.

Luke And Mackenzie

From Luke And Mackenzie's guidebook

The Grand Ole Opry is the longest-running radio show in history and a cornerstone of Nashville’s music scene. While the Opry moved from the Ryman to its own venue at Opryland in 1974, it still delivers the same magic of live country music performances. To experience this iconic show, you can purchase tickets for an upcoming performance—shows run several times a week, showcasing a mix of legendary performers and rising stars. For a behind-the-scenes look, book a daytime or post-show backstage tour, which offers insight into the history and operations of the Opry, including a visit to the artist entrance and the chance to stand on the famous circle on stage. This is a must-do for any country music fan or visitor looking to immerse themselves in Nashville’s musical heritage.

Lisa

From Lisa's guidebook

The Grand Ole Opry has been running for a long time! Come see about 7 artists per night perform for you. Shows are typically nightly and start at about 7-7:30PM, and buy your tickets in advance! Tickets are about $40-$125 each. A must see while in Nashville!

David

From David's guidebook

Everyone visiting Nashville should know about the Grand Ole Opry but most don't realize that in the summer you can actually sit out front and watch many of the performers for free. It is truly a great time at an incredible value.

Jennifer

From Jennifer's guidebook

See the Nashville Symphony and other shows in this beautiful theater

Wil

From Wil's guidebook

The Schermerhorn is amazing! The Nashville Symphony Orchestra is absolutely world class.

Kenneth

From Kenneth's guidebook

Neoclassical performance venue for local and touring classical, pop, and jazz concerts.

Kenneth

From Kenneth's guidebook

Progressive and dynamic zoological park. Sit back and enjoy the immersive 4D theater or zoom through the park's Soaring Eagle zipline. Take a spin on the Wild Animal carousel or the Wilderness Express train. Play on the jungle gym, explore the historic Grassmere home, get up close in the petting areas, and more!

Janet

From Janet's guidebook

The Nashville Zoo is recently renovated and houses over 100 types of animals. They also have a special light display during the month of December that you just can't miss.

Shawn

From Shawn's guidebook

Zoolumination is only during the holidays at the Nashville Zoo. Starting in November and ending in January. This is both adult fun and kid friendly. There are custom themed cocktails and fresh popcorn and hot chocolate to delight you while you check out one of the biggest Chinese Lantern displays. Put on your layers and try something different. NOTE: BUY YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE ONLINE. The tickets are timed entry and limited.

Renay

From Renay's guidebook

On a sunny day, we love parking at the Bridge building and walking across Cumberland River on the Pedestrian Bridge into Nashville. The views are amazing and relaxing. You will find local musicians playing for tips, and quite possibly catch a little live concert music from Ascend Amphitheater. It's a great way to get the flavor of Nashville.

Crystal

From Crystal's guidebook

While you are at Riverfront Park, make sure to walk the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge for the best view of the Nashville skyline. It's beautiful during the day, but you'll be mesmerized by the view if you visit in the evening and the lights are all on.

Amanda

From Amanda's guidebook

The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge spans over the Cumberland River and connects Downtown Nashville to Nissan Stadium. It’s one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world! The bridge was restored in 1998 for pedestrian use only, providing stunning views of the Downtown Nashville skyline and river. This is a popular music video backdrop, so it may look familiar.

Bedmore

From Bedmore's guidebook

Explore the Arboretum Paths — They’re Vanderbilt’s Hidden Gem Most visitors stick to the main quads and academic buildings, but Vanderbilt is actually a registered arboretum with over 190 species of trees. Wander the shaded paths between Kirkland Hall, Alumni Lawn, and the Peabody campus, and you’ll experience the most peaceful, story-rich part of the university. It feels like stepping into a botanical sanctuary tucked right inside Nashville. Visit early in the morning or near sunset. The campus glows, the walkways are calm, and you’ll get incredible photos of the historic architecture framed by massive old-growth trees. If you have time, pop into Rand Dining Hall — even visitors can grab a quick bite and soak in the campus vibe.

Jenny & Henry

From Jenny & Henry's guidebook

Vanderbilt University. A walk through Vanderbilt’s scenic campus feels like walking through a natural arboretum of irregular masses of hundreds of plant species and grand trees, the greatest of which the Bicentennial Oak was, predating the Revolutionary War. The plantings and open lawns form a wonderful backdrop for the uneven curves and textures of the romantic medieval-inspired buildings throughout the campus.

Judy And Mike

From Judy And Mike's guidebook

The grounds are full of old trees so take a leisurely stroll through this private, research university. More than 13,000 students attend the various programs here.

Renay

From Renay's guidebook

Ryman Auditorium is best known as the home of the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974. The famous circle was moved from the Ryman Auditorium to the current stage at the Grand Ol' Opry location next to the Opryland Hotel in 1974. The Ryman is known as the "Mother Church of Country Music" and still holds concerts and other live performances.

Brody

From Brody's guidebook

Former home of the Grand Ole Opry, now a premier performance hall and museum. The Ryman was first revered as a revival church when Captain Thomas Ryman opened its doors in 1892. In the century since, it's become the cornerstone of Music City's entertainment tradition.

Ethen

From Ethen's guidebook

Formerly the Grand Ole Opry House and the Union Gospel Tabernacle, Ryman Auditorium has been an iconic landmark in Nashville since it first opened its doors in 1892. A more than 2,300-seat entertainment complex, Ryman is known for its unsurpassable acoustics and is considered by many to be the city’s most popular venue, including hosting world-renowned performers and serving as a location for television and film productions. Today, in addition to the many concerts and events, guests can enjoy a variety of experiences at the Ryman, including tours, shopping and dining

Eric

From Eric's guidebook

Just a 4 minute walk and 0.2 mile away from our property. Country Music Hall of Fame is one of the world's largest museums and research centers dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of American vernacular music. Be sure to take a tour of historic RCA studio B, the birthplace for "Nashville Sound" and explore the site where legendary artists such as Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, and Roy Orbison, to name a few, recorded some of their classics.

Turner

From Turner's guidebook

Even if you are not a big country fan, this is one of the must-visit attractions in Nashville. The Hall of Fame is a state-of-the-art museum tracing the "history and sounds" of country music. Set aside a morning or afternoon to visit. Don't forget to stop by Hatch Show Print, the historic letterpress print shop, located at the Hall of Fame and Museum.

Alicia

From Alicia's guidebook

 You certainly don’t have to be a country music fan to appreciate the Country Music Hall of Fame, but a visit here is one of the quintessential best things to do in Nashville. One of the world’s largest museums, it is home to 2.5 million artifacts, including recordings, photos, instruments, and so many other things. Just the collection and variety of cowboy boots and clothes is kind of mind-blowing. There are also larger, one-of-a-kind items like Elvis’ “Solid Gold" Cadillac painted with crushed diamonds and fish scales. The Country Music Hall of Fame makes an effort to pay tribute to county music’s heritage while also having a focus on contemporary and even cross-over artists. While there is a permanent collection, some of the exhibits rotate.

Mary

From Mary's guidebook

Housed in an Art Deco post office, with ever-changing exhibitions. Great interactive kids area upstairs, and live music in the cafe on Thursday evenings.

Turner

From Turner's guidebook

The Frist Center for the Visual Arts is housed in the former downtown post office, an architectural jewel on its own. Constructed in 1933-34, the building displays both classicism and Art Deco styles and was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. Today, it is the city's finest home for visual arts -- although it has no permanent collection. Every six to eight weeks, it rotates new exhibitions, bringing in art from around the world. Great for kids, too.

Jessica

From Jessica's guidebook

The Frist Art Museum is a nonprofit art exhibition center dedicated to presenting the finest visual art from local, state, and regional artists, as well as major US and international exhibitions. The Frist occupies Nashville’s former main post office building, a 124,400-square-foot facility with nearly 40,000 square feet of exhibition space. The city’s treasured art deco building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. The Frist Art Museum’s building sits on land that Cherokee and Shawnee Native peoples, elders, and their ancestors call their homeland. We acknowledge and pay respect to them. We also acknowledge and offer deep gratitude to the ancestral land and water that support us.

Elena

From Elena's guidebook

Originally built for the 1897 Centennial, this is a replica of the Parthenon in Athens. The gigantic Gold statue of Athen with Nike on her shoulder is awe-inspiring. There is a small art museum housed here as well. Admission is very reasonable.

Jessica

From Jessica's guidebook

If you want to know why Nashville is called the "Athens of the South" the Parthenon is the best place to find out. We take all our visitors here. Make sure you go inside & visit the GIANT Athena statue!

Shannon

From Shannon's guidebook

This is Nashville's replica of the Parthenon in Greece. It even includes our very own giant Athena Statue. There's a museum inside and a lot of cool art that's worth seeing. The entrance fee is very minimal. It's located in Centennial Park just across from Vandy's campus and is a lovely way to spend an afternoon if you're visiting during good weather.

Rick

From Rick's guidebook

Cheekwood Estate & Botanical Gardens. This was once the family home of food magnates Mable & Leslie Cheek who were pioneers of flour milling in the upper midwest and brought Maxwell House coffee to market here in Nashville. Just six miles (15 min) West of The Tudor@Orleans down West End Avenue is this 55 acre estate that offers walking trails through seasonally changing botanical gardens, water features, outdoor concerts and more. Tours of the fabulous circa 1920's stone mansion are offered and refreshments are available in the old stone carriage house. check their website for more information.

Amanda

From Amanda's guidebook

Head here to slow down and stroll through beautiful botanical gardens and an art museum. I love the sculpture trail the most; I'm a big fan of the artist James Turrell and Nashville is lucky enough to have one of his pieces here. Be sure to go have a seat in it and look towards the sky. Cheekwood usually closes at 5:00pm but in the summer look for fun events coupled with extended hours.

Manny

From Manny's guidebook

Another pretty place to visit on your Nashville getaway is Cheekwood Estate & Gardens just 2 miles from Belle Meade. With 12 cultivated gardens and a walking trail, it’s a beautiful spot to spend a little time outside. The estate’s art galleries exhibit works from its extensive permanent collection of art, sculpture, and artifacts from around the world. If your visit falls in December, the estate hosts a massive light display that’s one of the most popular Christmas activities in town.

Keneetha

From Keneetha's guidebook

A Nashville icon known for its famous purple exterior and nonstop live country music on multiple levels. It’s the perfect spot to experience the true Broadway energy, discover rising artists, and enjoy a fun, high-energy night out.

Tina

From Tina's guidebook

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, a Nashville country music institution and world-famous honky-tonk, has operated across the alley from the Ryman almost continuously since 1960. Its proprietor from 1960 to 1978, Hattie Louise “Tootsie” Bess, bought the lounge called “Mom’s” and named it for herself. According to tradition, a painter mistakenly painted the exterior orchid purple. The color was never changed and became Tootsie’s signature color. Over the years, she served such famous customers as Kris Kristofferson, Faron Young, and Willie Nelson when they were still up-and-coming artists, and Tootsie was well-known for her generosity toward struggling musicians. The photo- and memorabilia-lined walls are called “Tootsie’s Wall of Fame.” A portion of the Loretta Lynn biopic “Coal Miner’s Daughter” was filmed inside Tootsie’s.

Luke And Mackenzie

From Luke And Mackenzie's guidebook

A true Nashville icon, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the city’s legendary honky tonk scene. Known for its vibrant purple exterior and rich musical history, this classic venue has hosted some of the biggest names in country music over the years. Inside, you'll find live music playing all day, every day, across multiple floors, with a mix of up-and-coming artists and seasoned performers. Whether you're there for the music, the lively atmosphere, or a cold drink, Tootsie’s offers an authentic Nashville experience that’s as fun as it is unforgettable.

Shannon

From Shannon's guidebook

16 acres of vineyards, five tasting rooms, gorgeous views, picnic areas, and live music on weekends spring through fall.

Alan

From Alan's guidebook

Founded by Kix Brooks (of Brooks & Dunn), Arrington Vineyards is located 25 minutes south of Nashville among the beautiful hills of Arrington, TN in Tennessee's wine country. Bring a picnic and experience their award-winning wines, breathtaking sunsets and spectacular vineyard views.

Marcus

From Marcus's guidebook

A beautiful local winery set among rolling Tennessee hills, perfect for a relaxing afternoon getaway. Guests can enjoy wine tastings, live music on select weekends, and stunning sunset views from the vineyard grounds. It’s one of the most popular destinations near Nolensville for couples, groups, and anyone wanting to experience Tennessee wine country.

Jennifer

From Jennifer's guidebook

The Assembly Halls (2nd floor) are basically a modern day food court with many local restaurants. Also has multiple rooftop bars with live music. Several full service restaurants and shops here too. Across the street from the Ryman Auditorium

Cal

From Cal's guidebook

Our family usually avoids downtown at all costs given we live in the area and stay away from the crowds, but when we have visitors in town we usually take them to Fifth + Broadway. There are 20+ local restaurants in a food court setting. There are two main rooms with constant live music with a view of Broadway. Everyone can order whatever they want and even mix and match from multiple restaurants. We suggest ordering on their app to speed up the process. We also park in the garage underneath the building for convenience but you will pay the downtown parking price (usually $15 on non-event nights). Food wise I always like getting soup dumplings from Steam Boys.

Raymond

From Raymond's guidebook

New downtown foodcourt. They did a great job of getting tastes of food from some of the best of Nashville's food scene. Slim and Huskies, Prince's Hot Chicken, and the Pharmacy are reason alone to go. It has something for everyone and it is across from Bridgestone Arena and the Ryman!

Luke And Mackenzie

From Luke And Mackenzie's guidebook

Pearl Diver is a tropical oasis nestled in East Nashville, just a short walk from the guesthouse, offering a refreshing escape with its lush decor and inventive tiki-inspired cocktails. The menu showcases an array of colorful drinks with unique flavors, often served in charming, themed glassware, making each sip a little adventure. In addition to their expertly crafted cocktails, Pearl Diver offers a selection of flavorful small plates and island-inspired bites that complement the drinks perfectly. The laid-back, retro ambiance and vibrant indoor and outdoor spaces make Pearl Diver ideal for both a fun night out with friends and a relaxed evening soaking in the tropical vibes.

Ryan

From Ryan's guidebook

One of our favorite neighborhood hangs. A great tiki bar that makes you feel like you've transported somewhere tropical. Also one of the best burgers in town-- get the Green Chile Burger to scarf down with your tiki drink.

Paul

From Paul's guidebook

This island themed bar serves methodically crafted drinks that don't ever feel cliche. It's home was once a converted auto garage that has been fully transformed into a mid century exotic hideout. Sea foam green booths, lots of tropical plants and 60's surfer movies projections. There's also a colorful outdoor patio with cabana seating and a pool-like pit area. In our minds, it's the best relaxed cocktail lounge the East side offers. Food menu includes oysters, Yuca fries, egg rolls, fish tacos, lo mein and snacks like wasabi peas and plantain chips. Just a .5 walk from our front door.

Merrilyn

From Merrilyn's guidebook

Only live music venue in east nashville. They have Monday night dace party. DJ Jacob Jones and others spin the old hits (Otis Redding, Curtis Mayfield, Al Green) and everyone dances.

Candice

From Candice's guidebook

Snacks & a full bar served in a relaxed hangout that hosts live bands & weekly dance parties.

John

From John's guidebook

check out their calendar for local shows. there's an outrageously fun Monday night soul dance party, which heats up around 10pm.

Todd

From Todd's guidebook

Local spot for really cool shows. They were destroyed by the tornado but finally reopened! Check out the lineup when you're in town - usually tickets from $15 - $30 most nights.

Andrew & Rachel

From Andrew & Rachel's guidebook

The Basement’s newly opened East Nashville sister venue is significantly bigger — with a capacity of 400, the “Beast” is roughly four times the size of The Basement. Everything else is pretty much the same, however: great sound, a fully stocked bar and a concert calendar full of killer local and touring musicians, from rock to pop to country and beyond.

Rudy

From Rudy's guidebook

They have some of the best acts that come through town, and it's a fairly intimate venue. Try the original basement on 8th south for an even more intimate setting.

Savannah

From Savannah's guidebook

Center Hill Lake provides all the fun - house boating, skiing, fishing, and other aquatic fn. The 64-mile long U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reservoir boasts 415 miles of mostly undeveloped natural shoreline and 18,200 surface acres of water. The lake features three waterfalls, eight marinas, five restaurants, a state park, and nine recreation areas.

Karen

From Karen's guidebook

Home of WakefestTN, Pate's Ford Marina and Fish Lips. CHL borders many of Tennessee's state parks in the Upper Cumberland and has numerous hiking trails and waterfalls. Fisherman's paradise: Spotted bass, Black crappie, Smallmouth bass, Channel catfish, Largemouth bass.

JoAnne

From JoAnne's guidebook

Center Hill Lake is located in middle Tennessee – essentially central to Nashville, Knoxville and Chattanooga. Contained mostly in DeKalb County, the lake also travels into some small parts of Putnam and White County. Originally created in 1948 by a dam constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Center Hill Lake stretches 64 miles covering an area of 18,220 mostly undeveloped acres. With roughly 415 miles of shoreline and easy-rolling ridge tops, Center Hill Lake is known as a well-preserved and peaceful santuary.

Michael

From Michael's guidebook

Our summer swimming hole! If you're feeling adventurous rent a jet ski or pontoon, drive around and go cliff jumping at some of the mini-islands on Percy Priest. If you're looking for a more relaxed Percy Priest experience, find a beach at one of the day use parks (Cook Day Use Area, Anderson Beach, Elm Hill Recreation Area) and lay by the water.

Anthony

From Anthony's guidebook

Elm Hill Marina, less than 3 min away! Great food at Shipwreck Cove and Elm Hill Marina for boat rentals

John

From John's guidebook

If you are looking to meditate or clear your mind, then this is a must to go to. You will walk a trail built in the natural outdoors that trails the river. You can ride a bike, walk or get your jog on.

Nick

From Nick's guidebook

With nearly 4,000 acres of natural beauty, Montgomery Bell has trails for hiking and biking and 3 lakes that can be enjoyed by any non-motorized water vehicle. There is also a designated swimming area as well as many beautiful picnic spots. Located 30 minutes from Tiny House.

Kim

From Kim's guidebook

This beautiful park is 40 minutes away offering canoeing, kayaking, fishing, paddle boarding, archery, full service restaurant, new raptor aviary, hiking, golfing, golf cart safaris, caving, challenge courses, waterfalls, geocaching, rock climbing, swimming and weekend events in season.

Dana

From Dana's guidebook

There are many activities to try at the park. Most notably, they are hiking, biking, golf, and fishing. There are nearly 19 miles of trails throughout the park with one that follows the circumference of the park. The Par 72, 18-hole golf course is a local treasure. There are three lakes within Montgomery Bell State Park for fishing and boating. Paddleboats and kayaks are available for rent at the park through PaddleEZ.

Madeline

From Madeline's guidebook

Ionic Nashville park - home to the replica of the Greek Parthenon (museum and 42" statute of Athena inside). Lots of places to walk and find some peace and quiet. There are often festivals and food trucks abounding on the West End side of the park.

Erin

From Erin's guidebook

Nashville's Centennial Park, which includes a (nearly) full scale replica of the Parthenon, was established to acknowledge Nashville's moniker as the "Athens of the South", thanks to its numerous colleges and universities, notably Vanderbilt University, which is located adjacent to Centennial Park. This city parks is host to many local festivals.

Nancy

From Nancy's guidebook

Centennial Park is a large urban park home to The Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, and the monumental sculpture of Athena by famous local sculptor Alan LeQuire.

Jon

From Jon's guidebook

Excellent park created for the bicentennial celebration of Tennessee. One side has time capsules from each Tennessee county with brief tidbits. The same side also include plants/topography from the areas of the state where the county is located. The south end start with Shelby county and the plants from that area. The north end has the mountains and plants from the Smokey Mountains and those counties. The opposite side of the park has a wall engraved with the history of the state. The south end starts with ancient times and ends on the south end with the most current history. The park also contains a 95 bell carillon (one bell for each Tennessee county).

Kenneth

From Kenneth's guidebook

This 11-acre park has a view to the State Capitol. Stroll through tree-lined walkways and learn Tennessee's history or relax at the central plaza to the sound of a 95-bell carillon playing part of the Tennessee Waltz every quarter hour. The Rivers of Tennessee Fountain is a great place for kids to splash and play!

Abby

From Abby's guidebook

This 19-acre park was built in 1996 to commemorate Tennessee's 200 years of statehood. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park provides wonderful views of the city and features a 200-feet granite map of Tennessee, which is bordered by thirty-one fountains that represent all of the state's rivers. There is also a massive granite time-line documenting Tennessee's history, a 2,000-seat amphitheater, botanical garden, and visitor center. Restrooms, a gift shop and The Farmer's Market (double check to make sure it's open) are adjacent to the park too!

Jeff

From Jeff's guidebook

Located on the shores of Percy Priest Lake, Nashville Shores Water Park features more than 1 million gallons of summer fun. Brave the waves in our gigantic wave pool, plunge down our 10 thrilling water slides, or, play, slide and splash in Kowabunga Beach, a massive water tree house and playground. If you want to chill instead of experience big thrills, enjoy a leisurely float ride on our lazy river or soak up some rays on our beautiful beach. There is all-day, all-you-can-play fun for everyone.

Melissa

From Melissa's guidebook

Nashville Shores is a 385-acre family recreation destination located on Percy Priest Lake in Nashville, TN, just past the airport off I-40. It is comprised of a first-class water park, RV campground, lake view cabins, aerial adventure park with 5 ropes courses and zip lines, a 310-slip marina, boat rental business, and other attractions.The water park currently includes a giant wave pool, Tennessee’s widest lazy river, Kowabunga Beach, a massive water treehouse and sprayground, multiple waterslides, three pools and a beach. For those who prefer staying dry, Nashville Shores offers free lake cruises onboard the Nashville Shoreliner, volleyball, horseshoes and much more.

Suzanne

From Suzanne's guidebook

Kids love their day at Nashville Shores, complete with several water slides, sand beaches, kayaking, and a zip line.

Jen

From Jen's guidebook

Lower Broadway. Where you'll find storefront after storefront of live music - Honky Tonks. The music starts in the morning and goes til closing time. There is no shortage of talent. Favorites include Toostie's and Robert's Western World. Don't forget to tip the band - they play for free and rely on your donation.

Torrey

From Torrey's guidebook

The sound of Nashville reverberates from the city’s downtown core where visitors from all over the world converge with the business and government district. Running smack in the middle is Lower Broadway where Honky Tonks play world-class live music 365 days of the year and never charge a cover. In the area “North of Broadway” are historic buildings reimagined into music attractions, boutique hotels, art galleries, and chef-driven restaurants, and “South of Broadway” are newly constructed hotels, eateries, music venues, and attractions. Wherever you go, there is plenty of fun to be had around Nashville’s incredibly walkable downtown.

Rupa

From Rupa's guidebook

Best For: First-time visitors, nightlife, music. What to See: Broadway Street’s honky-tonks and live music venues. Ryman Auditorium and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Bridgestone Arena and the Johnny Cash Museum. Vibe: Lively, energetic, and tourist-friendly with a focus on country music and entertainment.

Justin

From Justin's guidebook

If you love history, Franklin should be on your day trip list. It is only 30 minutes south of Nashville and is a town known for preserving the area’s history. Visit homes that were transformed into Civil War hospitals, sample brews along Masters & Makers Trail and end the day with a meal at Red Pony.

Kate

From Kate's guidebook

Voted best small town and worth the drive if you like small town shops and restaurants. Stop by and see if you recognize any of the scenes from the movies filmed here.

Jennifer Michelle

From Jennifer Michelle's guidebook

Take a stroll in Downtown Franklin where you'll find lots of restaurants, history, and shopping. There's something for everyone with a combination of big name stores and small boutiques.

Nilofer

From Nilofer's guidebook

Artsy, Eclectic, Indie 1. The Bookshop A cozy, beautifully curated indie bookstore with a thoughtful collection of titles and local author features. 🛒 Specialty: Independent and local literature 📚 Vibe: Quiet, calming, literary 2. Gift Horse Quirky and colorful store full of handmade goods, greeting cards, candles, and Nashville-themed items. 🛒 Specialty: Fun, offbeat gifts + local crafts 🎨 Tip: Great spot for last-minute, unique souvenirs. 3. East Side Story Books and art by local Nashville creatives only. Think zines, poetry, and handcrafted bookmarks. 🛒 Specialty: 100% locally-made books 🖋️ Perfect if you're into storytelling and community art.

Steven Craig

From Steven Craig's guidebook

Specifically - the Five Points area. Use "Five Points Pizza" as your centerpoint for navigation. This is no more than a 5 min ride away. It has a vibrant day scene but also a more local nightlife. Try out Rosmary Beauty Queen for a funky but trendy vibe, or The Red Door Saloon to get your dive-bar fix.

Maxine

From Maxine's guidebook

Located across the Cumberland River from downtown Nashville is the stomping ground of Nashville’s creative class, attracted to the area’s culturally diverse and eclectic vibe and historic homes dating back to the early 1900s. In the early aughts, East Nashville helped put Nashville on the map as a culinary destination with beloved restaurants like Margot Cafe & Bar and Marche Artisan Foods, a reputation the neighborhood maintains today. Locals frequent the many dive bars, craft cocktail joints, coffee shops, and vintage stores sprinkled throughout the neighborhood.

Justin

From Justin's guidebook

About 50 minutes south of Nashville, is Columbia home to the 11th U.S. president. The town has a thriving art community and great eats. There are art classes you can take from local artists and lots of locally-made shops to visit. Be sure to end your day at James K. Polk Ancestral Home, which has the largest collection of former president artifacts in the country.

Berry

From Berry's guidebook

Explore historic downtown Columbia, home to great food, live music, the birthplace of President James K. Polk and fun local shopping.

Taylor

From Taylor's guidebook

Columbia, Tennessee is one of the most quaint and historic towns in middle Tennessee. Come explore the peaceful downtown square for shopping and a meal, check out some upcoming performances at Mulehouse, or go take a stroll through Yanahli Park!

Bedmore

From Bedmore's guidebook

Go Early for Photos, Come Back at Night for the Energy The Gulch is one of Nashville’s trendiest districts — but here’s the secret: Visit in the morning for perfect light, minimal crowds, and easy access to the famous murals (like the “What Lifts You” wings). Then come back after dark, when the area transforms into a buzzing nightlife zone with glowing rooftops, live music, and incredible restaurants. Parking can be pricey and tight. Skip the headache and walk, Uber, or use the nearby commuter garages. Also, don’t miss the hidden local gem: Barista Parlor for artisanal coffee in a super-cool setting.

Sydney

From Sydney's guidebook

🌆 The Gulch 🚗 Distance: ~15 minutes ✨ Vibe: Trendy, modern, walkable, upscale. A mix of stylish restaurants, shops, murals, and elevated nightlife. 🎉 Highlights: • Biscuit Love, Milk & Honey (brunch favorites) • Trendy boutiques • Breweries + chic bars • The iconic Wings mural for photos 💁‍♀️ Why Visit: A polished, photo-ready side of Nashville with great food and an easy stroll.

Torrey

From Torrey's guidebook

Just south of downtown lies this once-abandoned industrial area that's undergone an urban revitalization in recent years sparking an intoxicating new energy. The exceedingly walkable LEED-certified community is teeming with boutique hotels, high-rise condos, instagrammable murals, shops, live music venues, breweries, and diverse culinary offerings spanning everything from biscuits and Nashville Hot Chicken to Detroit-style pizza, traditional ramen, and Indian food.

Kenneth

From Kenneth's guidebook

This area, along 16th and 17th Avenues south of Music Circle, is where the music happens! Many labels and recording studios are based here—Omnisound, Black River, Quonset Hut, Parlor Studio, House of David, and more. Take a tour of historic RCA Studio B, where legends like Elvis and Dolly recorded classics. You can also see all the law firms, music publishers, marketing and management firms, performing rights organizations and CD presses that bring music to life. Along Demonbreun and Division Streets (on either side of the circle) are several shops and upscale eateries.

Bedmore

From Bedmore's guidebook

To truly feel Music Row, don’t just snap photos of the studios—walk the block, pause, and listen. Many visitors rush through, but the magic is in the details: the handwritten notes on studio doors, the faint guitar riffs drifting from rehearsal rooms, and the bronze plaques telling stories of the artists who stood exactly where you’re standing. Go in the late afternoon—golden hour makes the street glow, and you’ll catch musicians coming and going from sessions. If you’re lucky, you may overhear a songwriter testing a brand-new hook on the sidewalk. That’s the real Music Row.

Rupa

From Rupa's guidebook

Best For: Music history enthusiasts. What to See: The famous recording studios like RCA Studio B and music offices. Historic Music Row Walking Tour. The Edgehill Village for shopping and dining. Vibe: A historic, quieter neighborhood with strong ties to Nashville’s music industry. It’s more for exploration than for dining or nightlife.