40+ Best Things to Do in Nashville for Music, Food & Fun

Nashville is a town with a rich tapestry of neighborhoods and suburbs and a personality that takes you from historic music venues like the Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium, and Broadway honky-tonks to cultural landmarks such as the Country Music Hall of Fame and The Parthenon. Those looking to recharge outdoors need only visit scenic spots such as Radnor Lake, while everyone can get their fill of famous Nashville hot chicken and barbecue and can explore wicked neighborhoods like The Gulch and 12South. From our rich musical heritage to the creative spirit that flows throughout the city, music lovers will find a variety of space to enjoy some tunes.

Things to do in Nashville​

1. Explore Nashville’s Legendary Music Scene

It’s no stretch to say that Nashville deserves its status as the capital of country music. Here are some must-do experiences for music enthusiasts:

1. Grand Ole Opry – Attend a live performance at this historic venue that has been entertaining audiences since 1925.
2. Ryman Auditorium – This iconic stage, referred to as the “Mother Church of Country Music” has seen all of the greats throughout the years.
3. Country Music Hall of Fame – Browse exhibits, instruments, and memorabilia and watch how country music has changed over time.
4. Bluebird Café – A tiny, but well-known, club where songwriters give intimate acoustic performances.
5. Broadway Honky-Tonks – Take a stroll down Lower Broadway and visit legendary bars Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge and Honky Tonk Central for live music all day.

2. Immerse Yourself in the History and Culture of Nashville

In addition, Nashville has a rich history and a lively cultural landscape outside the world of music. Be sure to include these in your plans:

1. The Parthenon – Full scale replica of the ancient Parthenon in Greece, located in Centennial Park.
2. Tennessee State Museum – Discover the history of the state of Tennessee from prehistoric days to the Civil War and above.
3. Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery – Former plantation now a museum with a mansion tour & tastings of local wine.
4. Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage – Tour the 7th U.S. president’s former home and dive deep into American history.
5. Johnny Cash Museum – Honor the life and work of the “Man in Black.”
6. National Museum of African American Music – Discover the impact of African American artists in any genre.

3. Outdoor Adventure and Places of Interest to See

If you love the outdoors, Nashville offers a wealth of green spaces and natural beauty:

1. Centennial Park– Huge urban park for a walk, picnic, or lazy day.
2. Radnor Lake State Park – Explore hiking trails surrounded by nature and take in scenic lake views.
3. Cumberland River Pedestrian Bridge – A perfect place to walk, run or even lay down and enjoy the skyline.
4. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens – Stroll through gardens of the flora and then the fine variety.
5. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park – Learn about TN’s past with a stroll through 19 acres of landscaped hiking grounds.
6. Shelby Bottoms Greenway – For the bikers, walkers and lovers of nature.

4. Eat and Drink in Nashville

Southern flavors and original dining experiences abound in Nashville — foodies are in for a treat. Some must-try experiences include:

1. Hot Chicken – Sample Nashville’s own special hot fried chicken at either Prince’s or Hattie B’s.
2. Barbecue Joints – Get you some smoked ribs, pulled pork, and brisket from places like Peg Leg Porker or Martin’s Bar-B-Que.
3. Southern Comfort Food-If you want to enjoy biscuits, fried chicken and classic sides, visit Loveless Café.
4. Craft Breweries – Taste local brews at Yazoo Brewing Company or Jackalope Brewing.
5. Distilleries & Whiskey Tasting – Tour Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery and then visit the Jack Daniel’s Distillery just down the road to become a genuine whiskey expert.
6. Hip Restaurants – Head to The Gulch area for hip dining establishments and rooftop lounges.

5. Shop, Wander and Explore Quaint Districts in Nashville

Nashville neighborhoods are full of character and worth getting to know:

1. The Gulch – A trendy area with chic boutiques, rooftop bars, and street art like the famous “Wings” mural.
2. 12South – Shopping, a few coffee shops, and Instagram-worthy murals.
3. East Nashville — A cool neighborhood with local breweries, vintage stores, and indie music venues.
4. Germantown — Historic architecture, farmers markets and some of the best scratch kitchens in town.
5. Music Row – Take a walk through the heart of Nashville’s recording industry.
6. Opry Mills Mall – Tennessee’s premier shopping outlet.

6. Discovering Non-Musical Nightlife and Entertainment in Nashville

Nashville nightlife is more than honky-tonks. Check out these exciting options:

1. Nashville Symphony at Schermerhorn Symphony Center – Experience world-class performances.
2. Ascend Amphitheater – Catch an outdoor concert with the skyline as a backdrop.
3. Comedy Clubs – Spend the night laughing at Zanies Comedy Night Club.
4. SPORTS – Nashville Predators (NHL)/ Tennessee Titans (NFL) Cheer on the Nashville predators and Titans.
5. Escap Games & Entertainment Centers – Take your group play to new levels at The Escape Game Nashville.
6. Rooftop Bars – Enjoy cocktails at spots like L27 Rooftop Lounge, which has city views as far as the eye can see.