21 Things to Do in Nashville Tennessee You Can’t Miss
I’ve always been drawn to Nashville because of its unique energy. It’s a city overflowing with music, history, and creativity, making it one of the must-see things to do in Tennessee for any traveler. Whether you’re a die-hard country music fan, a history enthusiast, or someone who simply loves to explore, Nashville offers endless possibilities.
And while cities like Vegas are known for their bright lights and nonstop entertainment, the charm of Nashville lies in its soulful rhythm and authentic Southern spirit. Join me as I guide you through 21 Things to Do in Nashville Tennessee that truly define Music City’s magic.
1. Grand Ole Opry
The Grand Ole Opry is a legendary music venue hosting country music’s biggest stars since 1925. Visitors can enjoy fascinating tours, explore backstage dressing rooms, and even stand on stage. Shows feature a mix of fresh talent and iconic performers.
Credit: IG(opry)
2. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
This museum celebrates the rich history of country music. Wander through exhibits featuring Elvis’s gold Cadillac and vintage memorabilia from stars like Dolly Parton and Alan Jackson. The interactive displays add a fun educational twist.
Credit: IG(chrism57)
3. Nashville Zoo at Grassmere
Home to 3,000 animals, this zoo features hands-on exhibits like kangaroo petting and parrot feeding. Its historic Croft house adds a unique charm, and the zip line and Wilderness Express Train ensure family-friendly excitement.
Credit: IG(nashvillezoo)
4. Broadway Nashville
Broadway is the heart of Nashville’s entertainment scene. Its neon-lit streets are lined with honky-tonk bars, offering live music day and night. When you’re not dancing, shop for souvenirs or grab a meal at a local eatery.
Credit: IG(nashvilletn)
5. Belle Meade Historic Site and Winery
A historic mansion and former horse plantation, Belle Meade offers guided tours, wine tastings, and a deep look into the 1800s plantation life. Special tours highlight stories of the enslaved people who lived here.
Credit: IG(bellemeadehistoricsite)
6. Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage
This Greek Revival mansion once belonged to President Andrew Jackson. Tour the beautiful estate, wander through the cotton fields, and learn about both Jackson’s life and the enslaved people who maintained the property.
Credit: IG(kerilock)
7. The Parthenon
This full-scale replica of Athens’ Parthenon impresses visitors with grand architecture and a colossal 42-foot Athena statue inside. The space also houses an American art collection for a cultural mix.
Credit: IG(nashvilleparthenon)
8. Ryman Auditorium
Known as “The Mother Church of Country Music,” Ryman Auditorium is an iconic venue steeped in history. Don’t miss the behind-the-scenes tours where you can even record a song in the studio.
Credit: IG(theryman)
9. Tennessee State Museum
Dive into Tennessee’s history at this museum. Its displays range from Native American history to Civil War artifacts. Located downtown, it’s an educational stop for history buffs.
Credit: IG(mccoynash)
10. Adventure Science Center
Perfect for family outings, this center provides interactive exhibits on topics like space, biology, and technology. The planetarium and high-tech Tinker Lab are crowd favorites for curious kids and adults alike.
Credit: IG(newheightsbrewing)
11. Frist Art Museum
Housed in a stunning art deco building, this museum features constantly changing exhibits of photography, paintings, and sculptures. Monthly music events in the cozy cafe add a lively touch to your visit.
Credit: IG(fristartmuseum)
12. Cumberland Park
Nestled by the Cumberland River, this park features splash pads, bike paths, and climbing structures. Ideal for families, it also hosts concerts in its outdoor amphitheater. The picturesque views make it a serene retreat.
Credit: IG(ebunny007)
13. Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge
A Nashville landmark since the ’60s, this lively honky-tonk bar features rooftop views and live music. Its vibrant lavender exterior and walls adorned with memorabilia make it a fun and unique experience.
Credit: IG(nashvillehistoryx)
14. Nashville Farmers’ Market
Fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local foods fill this bustling market. Located downtown, it’s a great spot to grab a bite or shop for unique souvenirs.
Credit: IG(nashvillefarmersmarket)
15. Etch Restaurant
Indulge in upscale dining with globally inspired dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients. Popular dishes like octopus bruschetta and seasonal cocktails ensure a memorable culinary experience.
Credit: IG(nashvilletnhub)
16. The Johnny Cash Museum
Dedicated to the legendary Johnny Cash, this intimate museum showcases personal artifacts, handwritten lyrics, and memorabilia from his extraordinary career. Fans will love uncovering stories behind iconic songs.
Credit: IG(cashmuseum)
17. Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery
This distillery combines whiskey tastings with rich history, as two descendants revived their ancestor’s prohibition-era business. The tours educate guests about the distillation process and bourbon culture.
Credit: IG(nelsonsgreenbrier)
18. National Museum of African American Music
This museum celebrates the profound influence of African Americans on over 50 music genres. Interactive displays and historical artifacts highlight everything from gospel and blues to hip-hop and R&B.
Credit: IG(wanderlustwisco)
19. Radnor Lake State Park
Escape the city at this tranquil park featuring scenic hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and peaceful lakefront views. A perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
Credit: IG(elimccabe23)
20. RCA Studio B
Step into music history at this legendary recording studio. Learn about iconic artists like Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton who recorded their hits here. Guided tours bring its legacy to life.
Credit: IG(jojo31884)
21. The Farm House
Featuring delicious farm-to-table Southern cuisine, The Farm House delivers fresh, seasonal dishes in a cozy setting. Classics like pimento cheese beignets and smoked pork treats are crowd-pleasers.
Credit: IG(thefarmhousesobro)
Conclusion
After walking through these attractions, I can tell you, Nashville is every bit as vibrant as they say. Each stop adds its own flavor to the city’s charm, from toe-tapping honky-tonks to peaceful parks.
If there’s one thing I’d recommend, it’s to soak it all in and create your own Nashville moments. I’d love to hear which spots you end up exploring, so don’t forget to share your adventures!
Visit Wavydestinations for a laid-back escape with stunning coastal views and chill vibes — where every wave tells a story
