30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Nashville (Tennessee) (2024)

Known for its energy and vibrancy, Nashville is one of the most famous music destinations in the world.

It’s actually nicknamed “Music City” because of its significance to the biz.

Its streets are filled with bars, clubs, concert halls, music studios and more recording stations than you can shake a microphone at.

There are other sides to Nashville, however.

It’s located on the river, so it has gorgeous natural landscapes filled with forests and ravines.

It was the birthplace of several notable figures, so there’s history to be learned from its landmarks and memorials.

A well-rounded vacation will take advantage of all of the attractions that the city has to offer.

If you’re looking for the most awesome things to do in Nashville, Tennessee, here are just a few suggestions for your bucket list!

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a booking through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

1. Grand Ole Opry

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Grab your stetson. Pull on your spurs. It’s time to visit the Grand Ole Opry.

Hailed as “the show that made country music famous,” the Grand Ole Opry has been running for almost a century.

It offers all of the latest and greatest in country, folk, gospel and bluegrass music, and it’s easily one of the best things to do in Nashville.

Catching a show is almost like a rite of passage in the South!

Visitors to the Grand Ole Opry can take a tour of the stage and dressing rooms before settling in for the night’s entertainment.

In addition to toe-tapping music, they also broadcast skits, comedy routines and other live performances.

When the curtain falls, you can grab a bite to eat at the Opry Back Porch BBQ or catch some ZZZs at the Opryland Hotel.

You’re sure to have a grand ole time at the Grand Ole Opry.

Swing by the famous red-barn stage if you’re looking for the very best in Nashville attractions!

Check details, prices and reviews here.

Address:2804 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214, United States

2. Broadway

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Broadway is the beating heart of downtown Nashville.

Covering several neon-lit blocks, it’s a neighborhood where there are bars, clubs, restaurants, shops, saloons and honky-tonks as far as the eye can see.

During the day, Broadway serves as one of the more typical tourist attractions of Nashville.

Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining and sightseeing as they hop on old-fashioned trams and trolleys and explore the streets.

At night, Broadway transforms into something else entirely.

Live music spills out of dozens of bars and pubs.

Rooftop bars glitter with everything from lights to swimming pools.

You can find places to eat, drink, dance, sing karaoke, ride a mechanical bull or try on a jumpsuit covered in rhinestones.

Broadway is at the center of all of the action, so it’s easily one of the best things to do in downtown Nashville.

Grab your dancing shoes and get there tonight! You won’t want to miss a thing!

3. Parthenon

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Before it became known for country music, Nashville used to have a reputation for higher learning.

It offered the largest number of colleges and universities in Tennessee and was sometimes referred to as “the Athens of the South.”

In 1897, builders decided to run with that nickname and raise a full-scale replica of the Parthenon right in the middle of Nashville.

Today, the Parthenon functions as an art museum and cultural center.

It hosts a number of paintings, texts, statues and sculptures from the classical era.

It’s one of the major points of interest in Nashville, especially for patrons of the arts; you can often find theater troupes performing Greek plays on the front steps.

The Parthenon is definitely one of the top things to do in Nashville, Tennessee.

It’s such a unique attraction that it deserves a visit even if you aren’t the type to wear a toga and philosophize about the stars.

How often do you get the chance to visit a Parthenon?

Experience it while you can!

Address:2500 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

4. Cumberland Park

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Nashville has beautiful views of the Cumberland River, a 700-mile waterway that winds through Tennessee and Kentucky.

One of the best places to travel and see it is Cumberland Park.

Officially called a “riverfront play space,” Cumberland Park is basically a stomping ground for families who want to have fun both in and out of the water.

Its biggest attraction is a gigantic splash pad where you can cool off on hot summer days, but there are also bike paths, climbing structures and butterfly gardens.

There’s even an amphitheater for outdoor concerts that are held in Nashville.

If you want to gaze at the Cumberland River during a romantic date, that’s an option, too.

The park sits right on the riverfront; you can even take a stroll down the famous pedestrian bridge that stretches across the water.

One thing is for sure: Cumberland Park should be on your list of awesome things to see in Nashville.

Whether you’re honeymooning or just looking for ways to entertain the kids, it’s a great destination for a Tennessee vacation.

Address:592 S 1st St, Nashville, TN 37213, United States

Planning to visit other parts of Tennessee? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Chattanooga and things to do in Pigeon Forge!

5. Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center

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You’ve never seen a hotel like the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center.

Not only does it offer luxury suites in the most hopping, bopping parts of downtown Nashville, but it’s also home to activities and amenities that make it a vacation destination in its own right.

For starters, the resort is filled with pools, plants, gardens, fountains and waterfalls in a glass atrium.

Boat tours are available if you want to drift along the water and enjoy all nine acres of the indoor jungle.

There’s also a spa, gym, golf course and several different ballrooms for banquets and other special events.

More than a dozen bars and restaurants line the corridors if you work up an appetite.

Long story short, the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center isn’t your usual hotel in Nashville, Tennessee.

It’s more like an adventure that you can take during any time of the day or night.

If you’re looking for amazing things to do in Nashville this weekend, book a room at Opryland.

It’s the best of the best in terms of accommodation!

Address:2800 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214, United States

6. Music Row

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Music Row is the single most famous street in Nashville.

Packed with record labels, radio stations, recording studios and music production companies, it offers a top to bottom look at the thriving music scene of the city.

What can you do at Music Row? It depends on your interests.

Lots of tours are available for recording booths and radio towers, and there are several local landmarks for sightseeing, including the statue of a famous producer in front of a grand piano.

It can also be fun to play “spot the star” with street names: Many avenues are named after country singers.

If you’re willing to venture a little outside of the neighborhood, Music Row is centrally located enough that many stores and restaurants are within walking distance.

You can eat, drink and shop while visiting the best parts of the area.

Music Row is one of the most iconic places to go in Nashville, Tennessee, so consider it a must see when you’re visiting the city.

Even if you only have time to snap a few selfies on the boulevard, it’s a destination that you’ll want to check out at least once.

Address: 16th/17th Ave. South – Division Street and Music Square, Nashville, TN, USA

7. Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory

It’s easy to spot the large white dome of the Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory.

It’s one of the biggest astronomy centers in Tennessee, and it stands on top of a large hill that provides clear, unobstructed views of the night sky.

Tours and telescopes are open to the public if you want to learn a few constellations while you’re in Nashville.

The observatory also hosts all kinds of special events like summer camps and eclipse parties.

They even open the grounds for outdoor concerts; you can bring snacks and a blanket to lay on the grass while you enjoy the music.

And when the performers have taken their final bow, the observatory staff will bring out the telescopes and let you cap off your evening with a look at the moon.

The Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory is one of the most fun things to do in Nashville, Tennessee.

You might be drawn in by the dome; you might be irresistibly tugged by the music.

Either way, you’ll have a great time under the stars.

Address:1000 Oman Dr, Brentwood, TN 37027, United States

8. Nashville Zoo

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The Nashville Zoo is one of the most unique attractions in Tennessee.

Located about 6 miles south of downtown Nashville, the zoo we know today was a standard farm home in the 1800’s on a land that was later donated to the city by the Croft family.

The standard home, that paved way for the country’s 9th largest zoo, still stands on the property and available for tours.

There are approximately 3,000 animals in total, that represent about 350 different species.

Some animals are even available for feeding and taking pictures with!

There are also zoo-sponsored camps and classes if you’re looking for fun stuff for your kids to do on the weekend.

For example, “Night Owls” is an overnight sleepaway adventure, and “Zoo Tots” has games and lessons for tiny zookeepers.

Consider a trip to the Nashville Zoo if you’re looking for the best attractions to put on a to do list.

With everything from a rich history to a delightful menagerie of animals, it’s one of the top places to visit in Nashville for sure.

Address:3777 Nolensville Pike, Nashville, TN 37211, United States

Visiting other parts of Tennessee? You’ll love our lists of things to do in Gatlinburg and things to do in Memphis!

9. Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and Museum

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Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame

Many award-winning athletes have come out of Tennessee, including Daren Bates, Reggie Grimes and Jalen Reeves-Maybin.

The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and Museum celebrates them all, and it’s conveniently located in downtown Nashville.

Browse the displays and exhibits that showcase the history of the state’s finest sportsmen.

Let your kids dress up in jerseys, helmets and pads for photo ops.

There are even a few rides that will keep your little ones entertained while you read up on all of the Olympic champs that have come from the Volunteer State.

The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and Museum isn’t a large museum, but it’s a significant one.

You won’t find another destination like it in the Nashville area.

You should definitely bookmark it in your “what to see” tab when planning your Nashville vacation.

Address:501 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

10. Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge

You can’t miss Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge.

It has a bright purple building located in downtown Nashville, and at night, the line stretches down the entire street.

Everyone wants to toss back a drink at the oldest honky-tonk bar in Tennessee!

Tootsie’s has a long, colorful history in the country music scene.

Patsy Cline and Waylon Jennings were among its most famous customers.

Willie Nelson got his first gig after performing on its live stage.

It’s even been featured in a documentary called Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge: Where the Music Began.

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is still thriving today.

It’s a place to see and be seen in Nashville, especially for up-and-coming musicians, and there’s always a lively crowd ready to buy another round.

Stop by Tootise’s when you want fun things to see and do in Nashville, Tennessee.

You never know when the next act will be the hottest thing in country music in a few years!

Address:422 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

11. Warner Parks

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Nashville is such a busy metropolitan area that it can be easy to forget about its green places.

Fortunately, the Warner Parks are here to remind you of the beauty and majesty of Nashville’s natural landscapes.

The Warner Parks are actually twin parks, Edwin Warner Park and Percy Warner Park, that span thousands of acres in the wilderness near Nashville.

Their beautiful lush hills are filled with everything from nature trails to picnic areas.

You can walk, tour, hike, bike or even go horseback riding among the sights.

If you like working up a sweat, check out the playgrounds, golf courses, tennis courts and mountain bike trails.

If you prefer more low-key activities, stroll to the top of an observation point and see for miles as the leaves fall and the sun sets.

There are a lot of outdoor activities to enjoy here, so if you’re a nature buff wondering what to do in Nashville, Tennessee, consider a trip to the Warner Parks.

They’re some of the most beautiful places in USA, and even though they’re free, you’ll enjoy a “two for the price of one” feeling when you hop between them.

Address:50 Vaughn Rd, Nashville, TN 37221, United States

12. Hatch Show Print

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Hatch Show Print is another one of those uniquely Nashville destinations.

While other cities might have similar establishments, this one is firmly rooted in the one-of-a-kind color, charm and kitsch of Music City.

What is Hatch Show Print?

It’s a letterpress print shop that has been making posters for local musicians since the turn of the century.

Some of its earliest works have become famous for advertising young stars that grew into legendary figures; these posters are now priceless collector’s items.

Visitors to Hatch Show Print can tour the facilities and see how the old-fashioned printing machines work.

They’re still functional, and for a fee, they can print your own customized posters to take home.

Everything is done in the distinct and signature style of Hatch Show Print.

If you’re looking for the coolest things to see in Nashville, this is the site for you.

It’s almost like the birthplace of country music advertising.

It’s a little slice of history in the city, and it’s yours for the exploring.

Check details, prices and reviews here.

Address:224 5th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

13. Tennessee State Prison

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You’ve seen the Tennessee State Prison even if you’ve never been there before.

Looking like a medieval castle with its spiked towers and chamber windows, it’s been featured in countless movies, including The Green Mile, Against the Wall and Ernest Goes to Jail.

In its heyday, inmates at the Tennessee State Prison were subjected to harsh manual labor and long periods of solitary confinement.

They were even forced to wear striped uniforms like they really were in the movies.

Today, the Tennessee State Prison is an abandoned facility.

You aren’t allowed to go inside, but you can drive up to the fence and take pictures, or you can sign up for marathons and ghost tours that are given permission to operate on the grounds.

It’s an especially eerie place at night.

If you’re looking for unusual Nashville attractions, try a medieval castle prison that’s a favorite of Hollywood directors.

Stop by the Tennessee State Prison for a hair-raising time!

Address: 6404 Centennial Blvd, Nashville, TN 37209, USA

Planning a road trip around Tennessee? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Tennessee!

14. Hermitage

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The Hermitage is one of the most important sights in the U.S. when it comes to the history and heritage of the American South.

As the home of former president Andrew Jackson, it’s a stunning example of grandiose, plantation-style architecture, and it’s been carefully preserved as a testament to the way that wealthy Nashville residents used to live.

It’s also an uncomfortable look at how the slave trade was normalized in the South in the 1800s.

Andrew Jackson owned dozens of slaves, and they were housed in log cabins behind the estate.

The dual nature of the Hermitage is why it’s considered one of the best tourist spots in Nashville.

It’s beautiful and culturally significant, but at the same time, it doesn’t let you forget about its dark past.

Consider a visit to the Hermitage if you’re wondering where to go during your trip to Nashville, Tennessee.

The best history lessons are ones that show you both sides of the story.

Check details, prices and reviews here.

Address:4580 Rachels Ln, Hermitage, TN 37076, United States

15. Radnor Lake

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Radnor Lake is another one of those breathtaking places that you can only find in Tennessee.

With sparkling waters that lap sandy shores and jagged rocks, it’s actually considered a Class II Natural Area because of its beautiful, rugged scenery that’s protected from commercial development.

Activities at Radnor Lake are mostly centered around sightseeing.

Wildlife is abundant, so if you like observing animals in their natural habitats, you’ll be in for a treat.

Turtles waddle in the dirt; red-tailed hawks soar in the sky; deer can always be seen darting through the trees.

Swimming in the lake is prohibited because of its protected status, but you can arrange for special, supervised canoe trips in the springtime.

You’ll just need advanced permission, so if you’re wondering how to plan a trip to Radnor Lake, calling the visitor’s center should be your first step.

Grab your binoculars and head out to Radnor Lake so that you can experience one of the best sites in Nashville.

The views alone will be worth the trip!

Address: 1160 Otter Creek Rd, Nashville, TN 37220, USA

Planning on a road trip around Tennessee? Why not check out some of the things to do in Knoxville, TN& some of the top Johnson City attractions?

16. Adventure Science Center of Nashville

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If you’re traveling to Nashville with kids, you won’t want to miss the Adventure Science Center.

It’s an interactive, hands-on museum where learning is done without tests and textbooks.

Instead, children are encouraged to let their imaginations run wild with things like painting classes, building stations and excavation exercises!

Many different topics are covered at the museum, and many different activities are available for kids of all ages and interests.

Do they like animals?

Maybe they can learn how to harvest honey from a real beehive.

Are they addicted to tech gadgets?

Let them watch a laser show or put on a virtual reality helmet.

Adults can have fun at the Adventure Science Center as well.

The planetarium hosts “yoga classes under the stars” on the weekends, and there are workshops on the science of beer or the creation of famous movie monsters.

If you’re looking for lively places to visit around Nashville this weekend, consider the Adventure Science Center.

The whole family can have a good time, and if you play your cards right, your kids might even learn something new.

Address:800 Fort Negley Blvd, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

17. Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary

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Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary

Despite the name, there are a lot more than just owls at Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary.

It’s a protected area for many species of Tennessee wildlife, including birds, reptiles, amphibians and small mammals.

If you want to go exploring, tours are available through the crunchy leaves of its nature trails.

If you like more structured activities, you can sign up for a basket-weaving class or a sunny picnic in the grass.

If you’re interested in special events in Nashville, you can swing by during a seed sale or a “movie in a meadow” feature.

All proceeds go towards conservation.

The sanctuary is a nonprofit with a good reputation, and its goal is to rehabilitate animals, repopulate plants and reignite the public passion for the environment and everything living within it.

If you love animals but hate seeing them in overcrowded, underfunded places, your heart can rest easy at Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary in Nashville.

Not only does it offer some of the best views that you’ll ever see of Tennessee flora and fauna, but your ticket sale will go towards a good cause.

Address:545 Beech Creek Rd S, Brentwood, TN 37027, United States

18. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

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If you’re a fan of country music, you won’t want to miss the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

It boasts one of the largest musical collections on the planet, so not only is it a worldwide marvel, but it’s also a distinctive hallmark of Nashville, Tennessee.

There’s a lot of fun stuff to do at the museum.

You can take in photos, plaques, musical instruments and memorabilia.

You can watch archived footage of famous performances and interviews.

You can take in a biographical film reel or explore interactive displays and exhibits on country music.

There are also some famous sites at the museum, including the historic RCA Studio B.

Everyone from Dolly Parton to Elvis Presley has recorded there, and you can take a tour of the studio like you’re the next artist in line.

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum if you’re putting together a list of vacation ideas for Nashville.

It offers such a fun and interesting experience that it should be at the top of the page!

Check details, prices and reviews here.

Address:222 5th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

19. Bootleggers Inn

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Bootleggers Inn

Tucked away near several other buildings in downtown Nashville, Bootleggers Inn is a quiet, dimly-lit bar that might not catch your eye right off the bat.

It isn’t painted purple or flashing with neon lights.

You might need to circle the block before you even find it.

Once you’re inside, however, Bootleggers Inn will offer an extremely atmospheric vibe that befits Nashville’s underground music scene.

Its wooden tables soak in low lighting from vintage chandeliers.

Its crowd is very casual, and its live music comes in the form of guitar strummers and indie crooners.

Another nice thing about Bootleggers Inn is that it’s one of the only places in Nashville that sells moonshine, so if you’ve always wanted to try the real deal from a Southern speakeasy, this is the place to do it.

Nashville is no stranger to bars and clubs, but if you’re looking for something in the top 10 of fun, boozy establishments around the city, stop by Bootleggers Inn.

It’s a must do when you’re in downtown Nashville.

Address:207 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201, United States

20. Honeysuckle Hill Farm

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Honeysuckle Hill Farm

Located a few miles north of Nashville, Honeysuckle Hill Farm is one of the best places to visit when you’re looking for clean, family-oriented entertainment.

People of all ages and genders can find something fun to do!

Toddlers can shriek with laughter when they take a hayride or feed an animal at the petting zoo.

Kids will enjoy running around the fun house, getting lost in the corn maze or picking out pumpkins for arts and crafts.

Adults will appreciate sweet but healthy refreshments like candied fruits and ciders.

If you’re contemplating what to do during a vacation to Nashville, Tennessee, consider Honeysuckle Hill Farm.

It’s one of our top vacation ideas for families, especially in the fall.

There’s nothing like bobbing for apples to put you in an autumn mood!

Address:1765 Martins Chapel Church Rd, Springfield, TN 37172, United States

Doing a road trip around Tennessee? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Franklin?

21. Nashville Shores

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Nashville Shores

Laugh in the face of danger when you visit Nashville Shores.

Offering a waterpark and a treetop adventure course, it’ll provide hours of fun whether you’re soaring on top of the world or diving deep into underwater pools.

The waterpark uses more than one million gallons of water in slides, rivers, wave pools and splash pads.

The treetop adventure course offers everything from ziplines to rope ladders and cargo nets that stretch between canopies.

Something to note about Nashville Shores is that it isn’t open year-round.

If you’re headed to Tennessee during the off-season for tourist attractions, make sure to book your tickets for this weekend!

All things considered, however, Nashville Shores is a wonderful destination for family-friendly fun.

Whether you’re a fan of water slides or ziplines, it’s one of the best places to visit near the city of Nashville.

Pull some goggles over your eyes and have a blast!

Address:4001 Bell Rd, Hermitage, TN 37076, United States

22. Sri Ganesha Temple

You might not expect to see a Hindu temple in a place like Nashville, but the Sri Ganesha Temple is proof that multiculturalism is alive and well in the city.

With a beautiful temple that showcases everything from botanical gardens to bejeweled elephant statues, the Sri Ganesha Temple will dazzle you as soon as you walk through its doors.

Things only get more impressive on the inside; drums pound, disciples pray and homemade charms wave in the wind.

Visitors are encouraged to wander the grounds and learn more about the Hindu way of life.

A canteen will feed you if you’re hungry, and tour guides can explain the meanings of various shrines and statues.

If you go on a weekend, you might be able to sign up for a dance class or a dinner event.

The Sri Ganesha Temple is one of the best things to do in Nashville.

It’s a fascinating place that can teach a lot to open-minded visitors, and it’s worth a trip just to experience real Hindu culture in the heart of Tennessee.

Call and find out if they have anything fun planned for this weekend!

Address:527 Old Hickory Blvd, Nashville, TN 37209, United States

23. Johnny Cash Museum and Cafe

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You can’t talk about country music without talking about Johnny Cash.

He’s an absolute legend in the industry, and if you don’t believe that fact before you walk into the Johnny Cash Museum and Cafe, you’ll believe it afterwards.

Photos, records and artifacts tell his story.

Listening stations have samples of his most famous songs and demos.

Priceless guitars are protected in glass cases underneath wall-to-wall posters.

When you’re done with the displays, a live band covers Johnny Cash songs in a cafe near the museum.

Souvenirs are available at the gift shop, including the chance to “take a picture with Johnny.”

You don’t have to be a fan to appreciate what the Man in Black has done for the music industry.

Even if you’re just looking for fun things to do in Nashville, you’ll want to make some time for the Johnny Cash Museum and Cafe.

Address:119 3rd Ave S, Nashville, TN 37201, United States

24. Printer’s Alley

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Originally the home of newspaper stands and publishing companies, Printer’s Alley has transformed itself into a busy area for Nashville’s nightlife.

No one is quite sure how it happened, but it might’ve had something to do with the dark, gritty atmosphere of the alley or the way that many local restaurants smuggled in liquor during the Prohibition era.

Today, however, Printer’s Alley is home to all kinds of bars, clubs and burlesque joints.

Their lights glitter through the darkness and beckon people to come and visit.

No cars are allowed in the alley, so there’s always a crowd.

Printer’s Alley isn’t for everyone.

For example, you’ll want to leave the kids at the hotel before you venture into the thick smoke clouds that hover over the red bricks and flashing signs.

If you’re looking for jazzy places to see, however, Printer’s Alley is definitely near the top of the list of Nashville attractions!

Address: Between 3rd Ave N & 4th Ave N, An alley from Union St to Commerce St, Nashville, TN 37201, USA

25. Schermerhorn Symphony Center

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A little-known fact about Nashville is that it celebrates all genres of music.

It isn’t limited to country and bluegrass.

This is why classical fans flock to the Schermerhorn Symphony Center.

Towering above downtown Nashville with white columns and ornate clerestory windows, the Schermerhorn Symphony Center is a pillar to the community.

It’s most famous for its violin concertos and string orchestras, but it also welcomes other types of performers.

It isn’t uncommon for the venue to host jazz shows, ventriloquists, drum lines, mariachi bands or Disney musicals.

Between its size and versatility, the Schermerhorn Symphony Center is one of the best things to do in Nashville.

It doesn’t matter if you’re seeking a black-tie opera event or a fun night on the town with the kids.

The Schermerhorn Symphony Center can do it all.

Address:1 Symphony Pl, Nashville, TN 37201, United States

26. Long Hunter State Park

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There are many parks and wilderness areas in Tennessee, but only some pay homage to the Native Americans that worked the land before the Europeans.

Long Hunter State Park is one of them.

Home to the annual NAIA Education Pow Wow, the park is known for the mounds and relics of its original Native American inhabitants, and the pow wow brings together thousands of people each year to celebrate that fact.

You can find all kinds of lectures, workshops, demonstrations and souvenirs when you visit.

Another nice thing about Long Hunter State Park is that it offers a full roster of activities even when special events aren’t being held.

You can hike, swim, boat, bike or camp among the nature sites.

It’s also one of the best places in Nashville to go fishing!

If you’re wondering what to do to “get away from it all” in the Nashville area, Long Hunter State Park is a great destination for relaxing and recharging.

Visit at the right time and you can even enjoy authentic Native American culture!

Address:2910 Hobson Pike, Hermitage, TN 37076, United States

27. Belle Meade Plantation

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If you’re interested in revival-style architecture, you’ll die and go to heaven at the Belle Meade Plantation.

It covers more than 30 acres and is filled with 18th and 19th century hallmarks, including cabins, stables, carriage houses, mausoleums and slave quarters.

You can tour the grounds at your leisure or stop at the visitor’s center for a more guided experience.

A winery is nearby if you want to take in the sights while sipping on a red.

Some of the plantation’s points of interest are fun, like the carriage house that stored everything from plain picnicking carriages to elaborate Victorian carriages meant for showing off within the city.

Other points of interest are uncomfortable but necessary, like the educational exhibits on the slaves that built the estate from the ground up.

The Belle Meade Plantation is located a few miles south of Nashville in the city of Belle Meade, so you’ll need to take a short road trip to reach it.

However, if you’re willing to explore attractions near Nashville and not just within it, the plantation is a wonderful place to go!

Address:5025 Harding Pike, Nashville, TN 37205, United States

28. Timothy Demonbreun House

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Timothy Demonbreun House

If you’re hankering for grits and gravy, the Timothy Demonbreun House is one of the best bed-and-breakfast joints in Nashville.

It offers soft, comfortable rooms in a vintage-style mansion, and its menu is filled with all of the Southern cuisines that you can eat!

Romantics, you should also know that the Timothy Demonbreun House is renowned as a wedding and honeymoon destination in Nashville.

It sits on beautiful, picturesque fields of vibrant green grass, and the white neoclassic mansion is a favorite backdrop for engagement photos.

Another fun fact about the Timothy Demonbreun House is that it’s named for Timothy Demonbreun, the so-called “first resident” of Tennessee who lived in a cave on the river.

His great-great-great grandson was tickled by the story and decided to name the business after his most famous ancestor.

Don’t worry, however; you won’t have to sleep in any caves as a visitor!

Book a room at the Timothy Demonbreun House if you’re looking for nice places to visit in the greater Nashville area.

Do it soon; do it this weekend.

It’s a popular destination, especially when love is in the air, so the suites fill up fast!

Address:746 Benton Ave, Nashville, TN 37204, United States

29. Shelby Bottoms Greenway

30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Nashville (Tennessee) (29)

Jeremy Christensen / Shutterstock

The Shelby Bottoms Greenway is one of the best places for nature lovers in Nashville, Tennessee.

It boasts forests, swamps, streams, fields and wetlands, so there’s something beautiful to see during every season.

It’s also home to more than five miles of paved trails, so you can enjoy the sights on foot or with a bike or skateboard.

Do you like a challenge?

Shelby Bottoms Greenway has a golden pheasant that scurries around the marshes at certain times of the year.

It’s something of a hobby among naturalists in Nashville to try and spot him before he disappears.

Do you want to slow down and just enjoy yourself in nature?

Spread out a picnic blanket by the river.

No motorized vehicles are allowed in the park, so nothing will disturb your peace and quiet.

Tennessee has some of the most gorgeous scenery in the South, so make sure to visit the Shelby Bottoms Greenway when you’re in Nashville.

It isn’t the only place to stop and smell the roses, but it’s one of the best.

It’s worth a day trip to experience it all.

Address: 1900 Davidson St., Nashville, TN 37206, USA

30. Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant

30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Nashville (Tennessee) (30)

Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant

Housed in a blocky building straight out of the 1950s, Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant is one of the oddest Nashville attractions that you’ll ever visit.

On one hand, it’s a grocery store where you can stock up on the essentials.

On the other hand, it’s a restaurant where you can order plate lunches and ice-cold pitchers of beer.

On the other other hand, it’s a music hall where you can enjoy live performances from local rock and country bands.

Despite its identity crisis, however, Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant is a hot destination in Nashville.

People come from all over to enjoy its barbecue platters and music shows.

If you’re wondering what to do in the Nashville area on a Friday night, this is a location to consider.

Stop by Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant if you’re looking for the best, most memorable things to do in Nashville.

None of your friends will even believe that you ate dinner and watched a concert in a grocery store.

You’ll have to take pictures to prove it!

Address:500 Church St, Nashville, TN 37219, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Nashville

These are just a few of the most fun things to do in Nashville, Tennessee.

Whether you’re interested in high-energy concerts or low-key nature retreats, this city has it all.

Happy travels!

30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Nashville (Tennessee) (2024)

FAQs

What is not to be missed in Nashville? ›

12 sites not to be missed in Nashville
  • Patsy Cline Museum.
  • Johnny Cash Museum.
  • Glen Campbell Museum.
  • Country Music Hall of Fame.
  • National Museum of African American Music.
  • Musician's Hall of Fame.
  • Tennessee State Capitol.
  • Tennessee State Museum.
Feb 15, 2023

What to wear in Nashville over 60? ›

What To Wear In Nashville Over 60
  • Country Chic: Channel your inner Dolly Parton with a flowing floral dress, a sassy pair of sunglasses, or a cowboy hat (but maybe skip the double denim unless you're aiming for full-on Canadian tuxedo territory).
  • City Slicker with a Twist: Nashville's got a hipster side too.

What is the main attraction street in Nashville? ›

Nothing exemplifies everything Nashville has to offer like Broadway Street. Running through the heart of downtown Nashville, Broadway Street is home to some of Nashville's best music, restaurants, and bars. To explore this area fully, you'll want to spend a few days in this increidlbe city.

Where should I go for the first time in Nashville? ›

Music Sights and Sounds
  • Country Music Hall of Fame.
  • Historic RCA Studio B.
  • Broadway's Music Row (Tootsie's Orchid Lounge)
  • Johnny Cash Museum.
  • Fontanel Mansion.
  • Music City Walk of Fame.
  • Bluebird Café
  • Loveless Motel and Café

Is it safe to walk in downtown Nashville at night? ›

Yes, Nashville is a relatively safe city to visit and discover for solo travelers. According to the Bounce Women Travel Safety Index, sixty-two percent of women feel safe walking alone at night in the United States.

Can you wear sneakers in Nashville? ›

Nashville Dress Code

Jeans, t-shirts, and tennis shoes are common. A blouse or button down shirt also wouldn't be uncommon.

What do people wear to dinner in Nashville? ›

If you're strolling down Broadway hitting the honky-tonk highway, men will fit right in with jeans, T-shirts, and hats. Women often pair boots with shorts or skirts, creating a trendy yet casual look. For upscale dining, it only requires a small step up in attire consideration, jeans and a button shirt suffice.

What foods is Nashville known for? ›

In this article, we'll explore the best eateries and hidden gems where you can find the top 10 Nashville foods.
  • Hot chicken - Slow Burn Hot Chicken.
  • Meat and three - Swett's.
  • Brunch - The Hampton Social.
  • Donuts - Donut Distillery.
  • Tennessee Whiskey - Bourbon Steak.
  • Biscuits - The Loveless Cafe.
  • Barbecue - Peg Leg Porker.

What is the best area in Nashville to stay in? ›

Best Areas to Stay for Music
  • Downtown Nashville which includes a city, a sunset and boating. Downtown Nashville featuring night scenes, a bridge and a city. ...
  • Opryland Hotel Gardens showing a garden and interior views. ...
  • The Gulch showing a sunset, street scenes and a city. ...
  • West End showing signage and a city.

Why are tootsies in Nashville famous? ›

Tootsie's is known for having the best local musicians and as a haven for some of the world's most popular acts. You truly never know who you may see on one of Tootsie's three stages or hanging out on the rooftop patio.

What is the difference between Music Row and downtown Nashville? ›

Situated southwest of downtown, Music Row is home to several businesses and attractions related to the city's musical heritage. Considered the heart of Nashville's entertainment industry, the Music Row area is centered on 16th and 17th Avenues South, which are known as Music Square East and West respectively.

What to skip in Nashville? ›

WHAT NOT TO DO IN NASHVILLE
  • DON'T JUST STAY ON BROADWAY. Hi, did you know that there are quite literally bars all over the city of Nashville? ...
  • DON'T GET PICS WITH THE WINGS. ...
  • DON'T WAIT IN LINE FOR GRUB. ...
  • DON'T DRESS LIKE A COWGIRL. ...
  • DON'T EXPECT TO SEE FAMOUS PEOPLE IF YOU'RE GOING TO TOURIST TRAPS.
Jun 22, 2024

Where not to go in Nashville? ›

Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Nashville
  • Bordeaux. Bordeaux is the most dangerous neighborhood in Nashville. ...
  • College Heights. College Heights is a small and dangerous neighborhood located in west Nashville. ...
  • Osage-North Fisk. ...
  • McKissack Park. ...
  • Elizabeth Park. ...
  • Buena Vista Heights. ...
  • Capitol View. ...
  • Cleveland Park.
Oct 30, 2023

What to know before visiting Nashville? ›

Here's our top 10 list of must-dos in Music City, starting with a top-notch city tour!
  • Gray Line Tennessee's Nashville City Tour. ...
  • Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. ...
  • Experience Live Music on Broadway. ...
  • Discover the Ryman Auditorium. ...
  • Stroll Through Centennial Park and Visit the Parthenon.
Jun 25, 2024

What food is Nashville known for? ›

Nashville is a culinary treasure, known for meat-and-three diners, fiery fried chicken and fluffy biscuits as well as a strong farm-to-table community.

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