Things to do in Nashville
Grand Ole Opry
Country music’s most famous stage, the Grand Ole Opry started as a simple radio broadcast in 1925 and evolved into an iconic music venue. Pull off the SR 155 and enjoy free parking at the venue. Even if there’s not a show on, book onto a daytime backstage tour and hear tales of the legends who have performed here.
The Parthenon
‘Athens of the South’ is another Nashville nickname. While it stems from the city’s many higher education institutions, it’s symbolized best by the full-scale replica of the Greek Parthenon – including a 42-foot statue of Athena when you step inside. It sits in the center of Centennial Park and houses a permanent art collection of 63 paintings by 19th and 20th-century American artists, alongside temporary exhibits.
Country Music Hall of Fame
The Country Music Hall of Fame combines artifacts and exhibitions spanning the genre and the role Nashville played in its rise. Marvel at Elvis’ solid gold Cadillac, then try to find your favorite album or single on the huge wall covered by every gold and platinum-selling country music record. If you’ve time, reserve a spot on the Studio B tour that departs from here – taking you around the landmark studio where more than 35,000 songs were recorded by Dolly Parton, Roy Orbison and more.
Shelby Bottoms Nature Center and Greenway
Five miles and about a 15-minute drive east of Downtown along Cumberland River, Shelby Bottoms is the perfect place for some fresh air. Blow off some steam as you wander through the 950-acre greenway or rent a bike to cycle around. In the nature center, learn about the local environment, urban community gardening, and swing around on the nature play area.
The best restaurants in Nashville
Arnold’s Country Kitchen
Meat-and-three is a Nashville culinary staple – choose one meat and three ‘vegetable’ sides (including mac and cheese). Arnold’s does this to perfection, shown by the line of waiting patrons usually winding round the block. Its lunchtime service and daily-changing menu attract visitors from far and wide. Plate up with fried chicken, blackened trout and country-fried steak, paired with turnip greens, creamed corn, candied yams and more.
The Southern V
Dining out isn’t all meat-and-three, Nashville has a growing vegetarian and vegan scene. The Southern V serves traditional Southern-style comfort food that’s 100% plant based, in the Buchanan Street business district (about two miles north of Downtown). Dishes include fried seitan and waffles, mushroom Swiss burgers, and loaded BBQ jackfruit nachos.
Where to stay in Nashville
Union Station Hotel
This 19th-century rail station transformed into an elegant hotel after nearly 100 years of welcoming trains into the city. Today, you can enjoy a sophisticated stay in the historic building, with 125 decorated guest rooms each including marble bathrooms, plush bathrobes, and custom bedding. Situated in the heart of Downtown, it’s just a few blocks from the Country Music Hall of Fame.
The Hermitage Hotel
Blending old-world charm since its opening in 1910, with modern day conveniences, Hermitage Hotel is full of character. Classic Italian and French-influenced architecture (marble columns, artwork) and comfortable four-poster beds offer a regal feel. With a spa, fitness center, restaurant, and incredible service, you’ll have everything you need from the moment you check in.
Best museums in Nashville
The Johnny Cash Museum
Learn all about the life of The Man in Black at this museum officially endorsed by the Cash family. Home to the largest collection of Johnny Cash memorabilia in the world, it’s the only place you can see some of his iconic costumes, handwritten letters, and short films.
Tennessee State Museum
Freely explore the history of the Volunteer State in this museum near Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. Permanent exhibitions span Native American life in Tennessee, through to the Civil War, its military, and sporting history. There are child-friendly activities, making it ideal for a family day out in Nashville.