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Things to do in Nashville

Things to do in  Nashville

Welcome to Nashville

Nashville may sound like twangy country music and smell like barbecue, but this Tennessee city is swinging past stereotypes and fast becoming the hipster hub of the South. Think street art, coffee shops, craft breweries, farm-to-fork dining, and of course, plenty of live music (not limited to country)—all happening along the banks of the Cumberland River in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Come for the Parthenon, a full-scale replica of its counterpart in Athens, and stay for literally everything else.

Top 15 attractions in Nashville

Ryman Auditorium

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Known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” Ryman Auditorium helped transform Nashville into a legendary music destination. Since 1892, the venue has hosted notable stars such as Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Van Morrison, and Minnie Pearl. Today, visitors can tour the 2,362-seat auditorium, visit the museum, or catch a live show.More

Downtown Nashville

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Music City’s lively downtown doesn’t disappoint. Nashville’s entertainment hub is home to a who’s who of restaurants, hotels, and cultural hot spots, including the Frist Art Museum, Country Music Hall of Fame, Ryman Auditorium, and the Tennessee Performing Arts Center. After dark, live music takes over the bars of Honky Tonk Highway.More

Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum

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From Elvis Presley to Dolly Parton, Nashville's stars have earned the place its title as “Music City,” and you can dive into that history and culture at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Learn about the best of this classic American music genre with historic video clips, recorded music, and a menu of live performances and public programs.More

Grand Ole Opry House

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From radio broadcast to world-renowned stage show, the Grand Ole Opry showcases genres from country and bluegrass to folk, comedy, and gospel both live and on the radio. Unlike a typical concert, the Grand Ole Opry presents six or more artists during each show, giving the audience a variety of great music at each event. Superstars who have performed here include Patsy Cline, Blake Shelton, Willie Nelson, and Carrie Underwood.More

Nashville Riverfront Park

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Nashville’s Riverfront Park was built in the early 1980s on the site where the area’s first settlers founded the city back in 1780. Today the sprawling green enclave on the banks of the Cumberland River is home to several attractions, including Fort Nashborough, Bicentennial Park, and the Ascend Amphitheater.More

Music Row

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No trip to Nashville is complete without a visit to Music Row. This is the home of the country music industry, with a slew of record labels, radio stations, and recording studios working side-by-side. There are also live venues on or near Music Row, to check out established artists as well as up-and-comers looking to break through.More

Belmont Mansion

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Belmont Mansion offers Nashville visitors the chance to experience an antebellum-era home, complete with antique furnishings and period details. Uncover Belmont’s history and learn about its owner, Adelicia Acklen—one of the wealthiest and most successful women in 19th-century Tennessee.More

Tennessee State Capitol

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The Tennessee State Capitol stands tall on Nashville’s highest hill as a symbol of its time, virtually unchanged since its construction in 1859. The structure is the masterpiece of notable architect William Strickland, who passed away during construction and was laid to rest in the building. The National Historic Landmark was built in Greek Revival style and is one of few state capitols without a dome. It was modeled after an Ionic Greek temple. Though classic in design, at the time it was considered innovative in construction.The capitol building is beautiful to see and historic to visit, with statues of many important political figures as well as the graves of President James K. Polk and his wife. Its walls are lined with beautiful murals, frescoes, and paintings, while its halls are lit by ornate chandeliers. It is still in use by the Tennessee state government today. It is the oldest operating state capitol in the country.More

Centennial Park

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Like New York’s Central Park and San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, the lush green landscape of Nashville’s Centennial Park provides welcome refuge from congestion, crowds, and bustling city life. The most notable, and possibly most out-of-place, feature of Centennial Park is its impressive Parthenon replica.More

Johnny Cash Museum

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Despite its small size, the Johnny Cash Museum manages to hold one of the world’s largest collections of Johnny Cash artifacts. Bill Miller, one of Cash’s closest friends, gathered and cataloged the country music superstar’s memorabilia for decades, resulting in this popular Nashville attraction and Cash-fan pilgrimage site.More

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

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Opened on June 1, 1996, to mark the bicentennial of the founding of Nashville, the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park is both a popular recreational area and a scenic tribute to Tennessean history. In the shadows of the Tennessee State Capitol and stretching over 11 acres (4.5 hectares; it’s dotted with monuments, memorials, and open-air exhibits.More

Tootsies Orchid Lounge

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Nashville is known for its eclectic music scene, live entertainment, and commitment to country. Nowhere is this more evident than at the world-famous Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge. This Nashville institution has been a part of this dynamic city since the 1960s and boasts three stages that host live music performances.More

Frist Art Museum

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Lavish cream and green marble floors and wall paneling, high ceilings with and cast iron doors surround guests with the art deco charm of the Nashville’s original post office completed in 1934. The historically significant building kept its original charm through a public/private partnership-driven revamp into the non-profit Frist Art Museum in 2001. The space now holds art exhibitions, interactive art workshops as well as a gift shop and café.The Frist is a different kind of museum that does not have permanent collections. Instead, it sources a host of themed exhibits that roll through every six to eight weeks. Traveling national and international shows including classical pieces by Michelangelo and Monet have hung on Frist walls, as have collections of American folk art, modern photography, European classical works from the age of exploration and even an exhibit deconstructing Italian sports car design. The building’s 24,000 square feet of gallery space includes 30 interactive stations on the upper level for kids and families to get creative and make their own stop motion animation, printmaking, watercolor painting, etching, sculpture creation and more—some of these stations also rotate to match visiting exhibits. In the summer, Frist Fridays bring bands—also often tied to exhibit themes—to jam at the museum, and live music features year-round on Thursdays and Fridays in the Grand Lobby or café. Be sure to check what’s on before stopping by—it’s a new experience every time.More

Jack Daniel's Distillery

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Go behind the distilling scenes at the oldest registered distillery in the United States: Jack Daniel’s, founded in 1863 in Lynchburg, Tennessee. Learn the history behind the distillery that’s emblematic of Southern culture and find out how the legendary old No. 7 whiskey is made at the source.More

RCA Studio B

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The historic RCA Studio B is where Nashville’s legendary music scene began. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this Tennessee studio is credited as being the epicenter of Music City and the place where the Nashville Sound originated. RCA Studio B has recorded more than 35,000 songs—many of them platinum hits.More

Trip ideas

How to Spend 2 Days in Nashville

How to Spend 2 Days in Nashville

Top activities in Nashville

Nashville Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour

Nashville Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour

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General Jackson Showboat Lunch or Dinner Cruise in Nashville
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Nashville's #1 All-Inclusive Pub Crawl with Moonshine, Cocktails, and Craft Beer
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Nashville Evening Trolley Tour
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Nashville Evening Trolley Tour

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Nashville’s Biggest and Wildest Party Tractor Tour (Ages 21+)
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Grand Ole Opry Show Ticket
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Grand Ole Opry Show Ticket

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Nashville walking tasting tour with Secret Food Tours
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2-Hour Nashville Brewery & Distillery Tour by Golf Cart
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Operators have paid Viator more to have their experiences featured here

Recent reviews from experiences in Nashville

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Birthday Celebration #44
Quanyatta_B, Apr 2023
Helicopter Tour of Downtown Nashville
This tour allowed me to see Nashville in a more romantic light.
star-5
We had a great time with...
Adrianna_S, Apr 2023
Nashville Mural Photowalk Tour with Professional Photographer
She was a lot of fun to work with and I can't wait to see how the photos turned out.
star-5
Great tour!
Kim_M, Mar 2023
Best of Nashville City Sightseeing Tour on Double Decker Bus
Great way to see Nashville!
star-5
Great way to see off the beaten path of Nashville.
Brett_B, Mar 2023
Nashville's E-bike Tour
I only had a day to see Nashville.
star-5
Great Nashville tour
Susan_S, Mar 2023
Best of Nashville City Sightseeing Tour on Double Decker Bus
It was a beautiful sunny spring day and being on the top of the bus was the best seat in the house!
star-5
Great Summary of Nashville
Sherri_C, Mar 2023
Discover Nashville City Tour with Entry to Ryman & Country Music Hall of Fame
We were excited for our trip to Nashville, but didn’t know what to see first.
star-5
Fun way to see Nashville!
Marc_H, Mar 2023
Nashville's #1 All-Inclusive Pub Crawl with Moonshine, Cocktails, and Craft Beer
At the end of the tour he gave us a huge list of recommended places to visit.
star-5
Great tour and time!
Lauren_S, Mar 2023
Mural Art Tour of Nashville by Golf Cart
It was a great time, we got to see Nashville, and our tour guide was the best!
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Fun
Wendy_m, Mar 2023
2-Hour Nashville Brewery & Distillery Tour by Golf Cart
Great way to see other parts of Nashville other than broadway.
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Enjoyable!
Tracee_D, Mar 2023
Nashville Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour
It was cold the day we were there, Nashville was nice to see from inside!
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Awesome experience!
Brittany_H, Mar 2023
Mural Art Tour of Nashville by Golf Cart
We got to see so much of the city that we wouldn't have otherwise.
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All the drivers were very...
Dianna_B, Mar 2023
Nashville Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour
Great way to see Nashville
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Great way to see local breweries!
Tamela_M, Mar 2023
Nashville Hop On Hop Off Brewery Trolley Tour
This was such a fun tour to see breweries that you probably wouldn't otherwise see in busy Nashville.
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Highly Recommend
Joeli_K, Mar 2023
Nashville "Homes Of The Stars" Narrated Bus Tour with 30+ Celebrity Homes
It was wonderful to see the beautiful homes and learn more about the city of Nashville!
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So Much to See in Nashville
Matt_H, Mar 2023
Discover Nashville City Tour with Entry to Ryman & Country Music Hall of Fame
So much to see in Nashville - this was the perfect way to tour and see some of the sights.
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Great, easy, quick way to see the highlights of downtown Nashville!
Kim_J, Mar 2023
Explore the City of Nashville Tour by Golf Cart
Great, easy, quick way to see the highlights of downtown Nashville!
star-5
Great experience
Jane_L, Feb 2023
Nashville Combo Tour: Sightseeing, Murals, and Brewery
Great way to see Nashville especially at the beginning of your stay.
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Excellent experience
Paul_N, Feb 2023
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Admission
Nice to see history of country music
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Best ride in Nashville!
Judi_H, Feb 2023
Guided Segway Tour of Downtown Nashville
We were able to see and experience out of way places and sites.
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Much more than Honky Tonk’s
D_H, Feb 2023
Guided Sightseeing Tour of Nashville
You’ll gain an insight to why this is an amazing place to visit or live.
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All about Nashville

When to visit

After cold, snowy winters, locals and visitors alike look forward to warmer weather. Spring, particularly April, is packed full of festivals, including the Cherry Blossom Festival, Wild West Comedy Festival, and Nashville Film Festival. While summer brings higher temperatures and a bit of humidity, it’s still a great time to get in on the outdoor music scene, especially at Ascend Amphitheater or Carl Black Chevy Woods Amphitheater.

Getting around

Nashville’s MTA bus system can get you around, but it’s slow, so renting a car makes the most sense for quickly traveling around the car-friendly city. Bike rentals and walking are another alternative, and ride-sharing apps are essential if you forgo a rental. Also, if you're staying at a hotel, check to see if they offer a shuttle service to or from the airport before shelling out the cash for a taxi.

Traveler tips

The Johnny Cash Museum is about a 3-minute walk from Paradise Park Trailer Resort, a trailer park–themed bar where a Doublewide Cheeseburger gets you two 1/3-pound beef patties on a bun with a side of tater tots or sweet potato fries. If you’re more of a daredevil, try Nashville’s original hot chicken at Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack at one of the two locations: 123 Ewing Drive or 5814 Nolensville Road.

Currency
US Dollar ($)
Time Zone
CDT (UTC -6)
Country Code
+1
Language(s)
English

People Also Ask

Is Nashville safe for tourists?

Yes, Nashville is considered safe to visit. The most common reported crime is theft. Tourist-friendly neighborhoods, such as downtown, Sobro, Germantown, and The Gulch, remain some of Nashville’s safest areas. As with any major city, avoid walking alone at night and travel along well-lit, busy routes.

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What is Nashville Tennessee famous for?

Commonly known as the Music City, Nashville is home to legendary country music venues including the Grand Ole Opry and the historic Ryman Auditorium, as well as gritter honky-tonks where visitors can catch live music performances nightly. And while the city is synonymous with country music, many artists of all genres call Nashville home.

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Is Nashville worth visiting?

Yes. Nashville boasts historical sites, museums, art galleries, and, of course, plenty of music venues—from lesser known to large scale. Visitors are able to catch local, regional, and major touring musicians on stages throughout the city. In addition to sightseeing, travelers can also chow down on Southern comfort food, including the city’s famous hot chicken.

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What should you not miss in Nashville?

When visiting Nashville, don’t miss the live music scene and Southern eats such as hot chicken, biscuits, and Tennessee whiskey. Swing by the lively honky-tonks along Broadway to hear upcoming and established musicians, and tour historic venues like the Ryman Auditorium or the Country Music Hall of Fame to learn more about the city’s musical roots.

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How do I spend a day in Nashville?

Because Nashville’s main attractions are located in a relatively compact area and are easily accessible on foot or by car, visitors can see and do a lot in one day. Along Broadway, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Ryman Auditorium. Head over to Music Row to go behind the scenes at RCA’s Studio B. Check out Printers Alley and the honky-tonks in the evening.

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What is the first thing to do in Nashville?

Get acquainted with Nashville by taking a river cruise along the Cumberland River, which runs right through the heart of the city. If you opt to stay on land, head to the Country Music Hall of Fame to learn about Nashville’s rich musical heritage, followed by a stop at Tootsies, Robert's Western World, or one of the many watering holes on Broadway—they open early—for a shot of whiskey.

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What are 4 things you can do in Nashville?

Visitors can explore Nashville’s musical history at spots like the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Ryman Auditorium, the Grand Ole Opry, and the National Museum of African American Music. Take in the current music scene at venues such as the Bluebird Cafe. Indulge in Southern comfort food like biscuits and hot chicken. And learn more about the city’s past at historic sites such as Belle Meade.

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What is there to do in Nashville besides Broadway?

While Broadway, downtown Nashville's main thoroughfare, serves as the center of the action thanks to its bustling bars and music venues, the city also includes diverse neighborhoods and attractions to explore. For example, in the 12 South area, travelers will find some of the best BBQ in Nashville, and Centennial Park, located near Vanderbilt University, boasts a life-size replica of the Parthenon.

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Nashville information

Number of Attractions

39

Number of Tours

238

Number of Reviews

33,251

Currency

USD
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