If you have been on social media in the past year, chances are you’ve seen people showcasing their trips to Nashville and how the city captivated them. With celebrities like Taylor Swift and the trend of bachelorette parties, Nashville is currently in the spotlight, making it a great time to explore all it has to offer.
While Nashville is famous for being the country music capital, it offers much more. Apart from music, the city boasts a vibrant food and beverage scene, exciting pro sports teams, beautiful historic sites, vibrant street art, and more. No wonder it’s one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S.
If you’re eager to explore all that Music City has to offer, check out our guide to Nashville, filled with insider tips and must-do activities.
What to Know Before You Go
Know your neighborhoods
While Broadway is the well-known street in downtown Nashville with bars and honkytonks, there’s more to explore beyond it. Discover other neighborhoods like The Gulch, 12 South, and Hillsboro Village for great dining and shopping options. Music Row is ideal for country music enthusiasts, while East Nashville offers fantastic restaurants and small music venues. Don’t forget Opryland, home to the Grand Ole Opry House, a must-visit for country music fans.
Leave your cowboy boots behind as comfort is key for exploring the city. Make reservations in advance for bars and restaurants, and save room in your suitcase for fantastic shopping finds like local boutiques and celebrity stores.
Where to Stay
Graduate Hotel
Experience a Dolly Parton-inspired hotel, the Graduate, perfect for a girls’ trip or bachelorette weekend. Enjoy the Instagrammable rooftop bar, White Limozeen, karaoke nights, and delicious breakfast options.
Gaylord Opryland Resort
If you’re attending a show at the Grand Ole Opry, stay at the Opryland Resort for a convenient location with a variety of amenities, including dining options, shopping, a waterpark, and a stunning indoor garden.
Thompson Hotel
Centrally situated in the Gulch neighborhood, the Thompson Hotel is a top-notch boutique hotel recommended by goop. Indulge in their rooftop bar, L.A. Jackson, offering a unique dining experience.
Where to Eat and Drink
Husk
Don’t miss Husk when dining in Nashville. This restaurant offers high-end comfort food with locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring a fresh culinary experience set in a 1870s Victorian home.
The Co-Op
Visit The Co-Op for a refreshing frosé flight on hot days. Indulge in delicious drinks and food amidst aesthetic backdrops for perfect photos. Locations can be found in Hillsboro Village and The Gulch.
Pinewood Social
Pinewood Social is a versatile spot offering a range of dining options from brunch to dinner, along with activities like bowling and outdoor games for a fun experience.
Best Things to Do in Nashville
Check out the murals and attractions
Delve into Nashville’s vibrant scene by exploring its murals and iconic attractions like the Parthenon, Ryman Auditorium, and the Belle Meade Mansion. Visit the Johnny Cash Museum, Lane Motor Museum, and Frist Art Museum for a cultural experience.
Hit the stage for karaoke
Experience the music culture by singing karaoke at popular spots like WannaB’s Karaoke Bar or Ms. Kelli’s Karaoke Bar. Make the most of your karaoke night by arriving early and having cash on hand for a seamless experience.
Enjoy some live music
Immerse yourself in Nashville’s live music scene with performances at various venues throughout the city. From bars on Broadway to iconic spots like the Bluebird Café, you’ll find a mix of music genres to enjoy.
