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Things to Do in Nashville

Things to Do in Nashville

Nashville Tennessee, USA Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Nashville's parks and waterways ample opportunities for outdoor activities, offering a refreshing contrast to the urban bustle.

Hiking & Trekking

Radnor Lake State Park

A protected natural area with various trails. The main paved path around the lake is easy, while other dirt trails offer moderate elevation changes.

Warner Parks

These expansive parks offer over 30 miles of hiking trails. Find everything from easy strolls to challenging climbs with scenic overlooks. Popular for trail running.

Shelby Bottoms Greenway

An expansive park along the Cumberland River with extensive walking and biking trails, wetlands, and a nature center. A good spot for outdoor activity and nature observation.

Water Sports & Cycling

  • Kayaking/Paddleboarding: Rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the Cumberland River.
  • Percy Priest Lake: A larger body of water for these activities. Local companies offer rentals and guided tours.
  • Boat Tours: Smaller boat tours offer intimate experiences focusing on historical points or natural beauty.
  • Cycling Routes: Nashville has an extensive greenway system with dedicated paths for cycling.

Urban Exploration

  • Walking tours exploring history, music, or food.
  • Self-guided neighborhood strolls.
  • Public art scavenger hunts.
  • Discover street murals.

Community Engagement

  • Attend local farmers' markets.
  • Volunteer for short-term projects.
  • Visit community gardens.
  • Participate in local festivals and events.

Indoor Thrills

  • Escape Rooms: Team-based puzzles.
  • Indoor rock climbing gyms: Physical challenges.
  • Axe throwing venues: Unique entertainment.
  • Virtual reality experiences.

Important Safety Note

Always follow park rules. Respect nature preserves (e.g., Radnor Lake: no jogging, biking, pets on trails). Prioritize personal safety in all activities.

Cultural Immersion

Dive into Nashville's unique culture through hands-on experiences and performances.

Workshops & Classes

  • Music Lessons: Opportunities for guitar, songwriting, or vocal lessons.
  • Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare Southern comfort food or master hot chicken.
  • Craft Workshops: Explore local artisan traditions (pottery, jewelry making).
  • Local culinary schools offer specialized workshops.

Cultural Performances

Grand Ole Opry

Witness a live country music show featuring a rotating lineup of legends and rising stars. A classic Nashville experience.

Ryman Auditorium

Attend a concert at the historic "Mother Church of Country Music" for an unparalleled acoustic experience across various genres.

The Bluebird Cafe

Experience an intimate songwriter's round, where musicians perform their original songs and share the stories behind them.

The Station Inn

A legendary bluegrass venue offering authentic live performances in a historic setting, a must for traditional music fans.

Rd & Lindsley Bar & Grill

Features a diverse range of music acts, from local talent to national touring bands, providing a broader music experience.

Exit/In & The Basement

Popular spots for indie rock and alternative music, showing the diverse sounds of Nashville beyond country.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Nashville truly comes alive after dark, notably with its unparalleled live music scene.

Live Music & Venues

  • Broadway Honky Tonks: Famous for continuous live music from morning until late night.
  • Major Concert Venues: Ryman Auditorium, Grand Ole Opry, and Bridgestone Arena host larger concerts.
  • The Bluebird Cafe: Legendary for its intimate songwriter's rounds.
  • The Station Inn: An iconic venue for traditional bluegrass music.

Beyond the Bars

Theater & Performance Spaces

Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC) hosts touring Broadway shows, dance companies, and other theatrical productions.

Nightclubs & Dancing

Nashville has a growing number of dance clubs and upscale lounges, specifically in areas like The Gulch and Midtown, offering DJ sets and a traditional club experience.

Bar Districts

Broadway the most famous district. Printer's Alley offers a historic, low- atmosphere. Midtown/Demonbreun Street popular with locals and students.

Shopping & Markets

Traditional Markets

Nashville Farmers' Market: Open daily, featuring local produce, artisanal foods, and crafts. Its international food hall prepared meals.

Artisan Workshops & Crafts

The Arts at The Arcade: A historic arcade downtown featuring artist studios and galleries where you purchase unique pieces.

Local Boutiques

Found in neighborhoods like 12 South, East Nashville, and The Gulch, these offer unique fashion, home goods, and handcrafted products from local designers and artisans.

Shopping & Wellness

Discover unique souvenirs, local crafts, and fashionable finds. Find moments of calm and rejuvenation amidst Nashville's lively pace.

Souvenir & Specialty Shops

  • Music-themed items: T-shirts, cowboy hats, records, music memorabilia.
  • Local food products: Hot chicken seasoning, Southern sauces, local jams, Goo Goo Clusters.
  • Handmade crafts: Support local artisans by purchasing unique, locally made jewelry, art, or home decor.
  • Luxury & Boutique Shopping: The Gulch and 12 South offer curated selections.

Relaxation & Wellness

Spas & Wellness Centers

Several high-end hotels offer full-service spas with a range of treatments (e.g., The Spa at JW Marriott, The Joseph Spa).

Yoga & Meditation

Numerous yoga studios operate across Nashville, offering drop-in classes for all levels. Find a studio in 12 South or East Nashville.

Outdoor Retreats

Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort & Waterpark, located on Percy Priest Lake, waterpark experience with a sandy beach area for swimming and relaxation.

Ethical Shopping

Prioritize supporting local businesses and artisans. Look for products that are locally made, for directly benefiting the community.

Shipping Large Items

If you purchase large items or many souvenirs, inquire about shipping options from the retailer to your home.

Customs Information

Be aware of your home country's customs regulations regarding imports and duty-free limits to avoid issues upon return.

Spending Insights

Nashville options for various budgets. Plan for peak season expenses. Tipping customary for services.

Activities & Planning

Consider various planning tools and unique experiences for a full Nashville adventure.

Planning Tools

  • Guided Pub Crawls: A structured way to experience the nightlife, especially on Broadway.
  • Cultural Festivals & Events: CMA Music Festival, Tin Pan South, Nashville Film Festival, Live on the Green.
  • GetYourGuide: A platform for booking tours, tickets, and diverse experiences.
  • Local Event Calendars: Check for current happenings upon arrival or before your trip.

Unique Experiences

Listening Rooms

Intimate songwriter performances (e.g., The Bluebird Cafe). A unique way to hear new music and stories.

Rooftop Bars

Enjoy panoramic city views with drinks and light bites. Offers a social scene, especially at sunset.

Museum After Hours

Some museums host evening events, offering a different, often more relaxed, perspective on their collections.

Sporting Events

  • Nashville Predators (NHL).
  • Tennessee Titans (NFL).
  • Nashville Sounds (MiLB).
  • Experience the city's passion for sports.

Winery & Brewery Tours

  • Local craft breweries offer tours and tastings.
  • Yazoo Brewing Company, Jackalope Brewing Company.
  • Tennessee Brew Works.
  • Vineyards within driving distance for wine tasting.

Farm-to-Table Experiences

  • Restaurants sourcing local ingredients.
  • Showcases Southern culinary traditions.
  • Farmers' Markets for fresh produce.
  • Directly experience local agriculture.

Tips for Engagement

Embrace Spontaneity
  • Wander Broadway and step into any honky tonk that catches your ear.
  • Discover impromptu street performances or open mic nights.
  • Allow for flexible plans to explore unexpected discoveries.
Connect Locally
  • Talk to locals for recommendations on hidden gems and authentic experiences.
  • Visit neighborhoods beyond the immediate tourist core for a local feel.
  • Support independent businesses and local artists during your shopping.

Planning Ahead

Popular tours and shows book quickly. Consider booking tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, for your preferred activities.

Activity Planning Summary

Outdoor & Active Pursuits

  • Explore Radnor Lake or Warner Parks for hiking and nature.
  • Paddle the Cumberland River for unique city views.
  • Utilize Nashville's extensive greenway system for cycling.
  • Seek indoor thrills at escape rooms or climbing gyms.

Cultural & Social Engagement

  • Immerse in live music at honky tonks or intimate venues.
  • Attend a Southern cooking class or a guided food tour.
  • Find relaxation at a local spa or wellness center.
  • Discover unique finds at markets and local boutiques.