What better city to spend a vacation in than Nashville? Scroll through our checklist of things to do in Nashville (TN) as you make your way to this city.
Nashville is one of the world’s most famous music venues, fondly called “the City of Music” because of its high importance to the show-biz industry.
Its streets are lined with bars, clubs, concert halls, music studios, and recording studios, in addition to the sound system.
Not forgetting it is located by a river, so it has beautiful natural habitats full of forests and streams.
Make our checklist of things to do in Nashville (TN) your guide as you plan your trip to this intriguing city. Let’s head right to it, shall we?
Fun Things To Do In Nashville (TN)
1. Visit Broadway
Broadway is a National History region famous for its music industry because of the live music and games that take place here.
It also has restaurants and bars that play great country songs.
It is historically renowned for being the birthplace of the world music expert Jimmie Rodgers, who presented his country music career.
Rodgers, famous for his rhythmic yodeling, played in bars on the street in the early 1930s, which became quite popular in the local music scene.
Address: Nashville, TN, USA
2. Visit the Parthenon
The Parthenon is an art museum featuring permanent collections from the 19th and 20th centuries and temporary exhibitions too.
Its architecture and history are among the most appealing features that make it so popular. Coupled with it being particularly designed to serve as the centerpiece of Tennessee Century Celebrations.
Initially pitched to be demolished, but instead, it was renovated and restored because it had already become quite a popular attraction in Nashville and the United States.
Address: 2500 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203, United States
3. Visit Cumberland Park
Cumberland Park is an amusement park that offers fun activities for children and probably adults too.
It includes a fun children’s play area, great walking trails, and a splash pad. It also has something for the nighttime if you like hanging out at night.
Hang out with friends, and interact with the community. Form new acquaintances.
Address: 592 S 1st St, Nashville, TN 37213, United States
Things To Do In Nashville (TN) At Night
1. Walk Across the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge
The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge is a popular structure in Nashville. It is strictly for pedestrian use and provides incredible views of the river and downtown skyline.
Why not walk down, soak in the cool evening breeze, and enjoy the city?
It is just a delight to stroll along this bridge at night. The view of the city during this time is something you’d treasure. You can come along with a camera as well.
Address: Nashville, TN 37213, United States
Also see: 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Maryville (TN)
2. Request a Song at the Big Bang
What’s very exciting about downtown’s favorite dueling piano bar is that the songs performed here are all requests from the audience.
So you can get your favorite songs performed specially for you to your delight by world-class musicians.
An even more exciting feature of this piano dueling bar is that they sometimes take a classic and rewrite the lyrics using an audience member’s name and story; how interesting and sweet!
The Big Bang serves food and drinks and is the perfect place to start a Nashville night out.
Address: Inside The Whiskey Shot, 209 Printers Alley, Nashville, TN 37201, United States
3. Attend a Full Moon Pickin’ Party
Here, bluegrass musicians get together to raise money for Warner Parks through an amazing Full Moon Pickin’ Party event.
It is done once a month, usually on a Friday evening at the Warner Park Equestrian Center.
This event hosts bluegrass jam circles and three headlining bands on the main stage at the venue. You should miss this as it is an opportunity to interact with the locals and enjoy good music.
Food is also available from a local food truck and a Southern Style Photo Booth to ensure you have a variety and don’t go hungry during the event.
Address: 7311 TN-100, Nashville, TN 37221, United States
4. Have Drinks at a Rooftop Bar
Downtown Nashville is home to bars that provide city views from a rooftop because of their pristine location.
A few others are in less congested areas, but they all offer the same spectacular rooftop experience.
Some of the best of these bars of this nature include Virago, Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row, Nashville Underground, and Rock Bottom Brewery.
Also see: 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Columbia (TN)
5. Wildhorse Saloon
Wildhorse is one of the best places to enjoy live music; sign up for free line dancing lessons and learn a thing or two about dancing. You’ll certainly have fun at it.
Wildhorse also hosts various events, showcasing local and national touring artists in each presentation. Why not relax here and enjoy some good music?
Not missing the gift shop, restaurant, and bar. These and more are sure to make your night in Nashville.
Address: 120 2nd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37201, United States
Things To Do In Nashville (TN) For Couples
1. Explore Downtown on a Carriage Ride
Few things are more romantic than going on a horse-drawn carriage ride; or sightseeing with your loved one. It is a moment to treasure for life!
Navigated by a local, Sugar Creek Carriages takes you through Downtown Nashville, where you pass popular spots like Riverfront Park, Wild Horse Saloon, and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Many carriage rides in Nashville last about 20 minutes, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the rest of the day (and night) with your significant other.
Address: 100 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201, United States
2. Go for a Hike at Forest Hills
You shouldn’t leave out exploring Nashville’s parks as they hold many memories and excitement. Forest Hills is one of those parks. It is a popular place to start.
Enjoy views of Radnor Lake while exploring the woods in this amazing city.
Having more than ten hiking trails of various difficulty levels, the Radnor Lake State Park leads you to the 1,200-acre Radnor Lake.
Forest Hills has exciting wildlife like muskrats, river otters, beavers, and white-tailed deer.
Address: 1160 Otter Creek Rd, Nashville, TN 37220, United States
Also see: 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Hendersonville (TN)
3. Dance at a Honky-Tonk
Wouldn’t you love a place where you can enjoy live music all day long without paying? This superb experience is what Nashville offers.
Well, since no fee is required for a good time here, for tip-sake, you can come along with some cash in case you really love some of the performances by the artists.
Some popular honky tonk in Nashville includes Robert’s Western World, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, and Legends Corner.
Some of these attractions even offer free country dance lessons if you’re interested.
Address: 329 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201, United States
Things To Do In Nashville (TN) For Kids
1. Go on a Ride on the Hop On Hop Off Bus
The Hop On Hop Off Bus is an efficient way to see the city, and this could be particularly fun for kids.
Knowing how easy it is to miss interesting monuments and landscapes for a first-timer, there is an experienced guide in the double-decker bus who can point out things you may otherwise miss.
The numerous attractions on the go will help keep the kids engaged throughout the trip so parents can attend to some other things if they wish.
Address: 201 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201, United States
2. Participate in the Escape Game Nashville
Nashville has an intriguing attraction – the Escape Game Nashville, which keeps kids and young adults entertained. It is one spot where kids won’t have to complain about being indoors; funny, right?
About eight members are put in specially-designed rooms, with all of them having 60 minutes to figure out how to escape.
Don’t be frightened; it has hints and props along the way to help you navigate. It is always fun for kids. You should let your kids visit; they will also make new friends.
Address: 162 3rd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37201, United States
3. Take Them to the Nashville Adventure Science Center
Head to the Nashville Adventure Science Center and let them build whatever they can muster.
Alternatively, they can try claiming the great climbing structure right in the middle of the museum; climbing all the way to the top rewards you with beautiful views of Nashville.
And also the farting slide, this slide farts every time you slide down it, and yep, kids love it; the sound it makes is funny and exciting, even if the parents don’t!
Address: 800 Fort Negley Blvd, Nashville, TN 37203, United States
Also see: 24 Best & Fun Things To Do In CrossVille (TN)
Indoor Activities To Do In Nashville (TN) For Adults
1. Go Bowling With Friends
You could say Nashville bowling is literally the best, and you won’t be wrong. It has a cafeteria for delicious food and amazing drinks!
Here it is, first come, first serve. The cost is about $15 per half hour for up to eight people, shoe rents are available for about $2.95, and socks are available for $3.
Another exciting option is Pinewood Social. It has Vintage ball returns and scoring tables, and food and cocktails are just a few steps away.
Lanes are about $60 per 90 minutes for up to 8 people, including shoe rentals.
Address: 925 3rd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37201, United States
2. Arcade Games
Arcade bars have it all, from pinball machines to skeeball. With so many of these bars around, like Up-Down Nashville, and 16-Bit Bar + Arcade, you can surely have the best time of your life in Nashville.
These arcade bars in Nashville give you the opportunity to connect with locals while having fun with the games.
You should try them out, as their different setup makes each unique and intriguing.
Address: 927 Woodland St, Nashville, TN 37206, United States
Romantic Things To Do In Nashville (TN)
1. Enjoy Breakfast at Loveless Cafe
Nashville, the music city, is not just known as the home to country music but also as home to amazing spicy food.
If you’re going to try out local cuisines while you’re here, you have to go a little out of town for the best — Loveless Cafe.
Their menus are one of the best you will find in Nashville. You and your partner can have a tasty breakfast in beautiful surroundings with good music. It’s a delight you wouldn’t want to miss.
Address: 8400 TN-100, Nashville, TN 37221, United States
Also see: 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Kingsport (TN)
2. Grab a Cocktail at Whiskey Kitchen
What could be better than sipping a cold drink with that special person? Whiskey Kitchen offers you the opportunity to do that with some comfort and fun.
It is literally the best place to visit after eating at dozens of Nashville restaurants.
They offer both local delicacies and foreign cuisines as well. Whiskey Kitchen serves one of the best peach bellinis you can ever think of. You should try it before you leave Nashville.
Address: 118 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203, United States
3. Enjoy a Show at Pucketts
Pucketts is one of the best relaxation spots in Nashville. It is located in one of the suburbs of Nashville, where many country artists and writers live.
In Pucketts, you can book tickets for a show to enjoy a good laugh over dinner.
They also have a location in downtown Nashville where they have live music often; the Franklin location is just a bit bigger.
Address: 500 Church St, Nashville, TN 37219, United States
Also see: 27 Fun & Best Things To Do In Jackson (TN)
4. Attend a Wine Festival
Nashville has some amazing wine festivals year-round! Festivals you wouldn’t want to miss.
April through September is usually the most active with wine and food festivals, but there are also fantastic wine collections in the winter! You should try it out.
Don’t miss the chance to taste some delicious wines while you meet new people; it’s an experience you will treasure even after your trip.
Free Things To Do In Nashville (TN)
1. Go Sightseeing in Downtown Nashville
Downtown Nashville is unparalleled in good restaurants, including free samples from Savannah’s Candy Kitchen.
You can go on a tour here and check out some of the city’s fascinating sights and beautiful scenery.
At 701 Broadway, you will see a magnificent structure with a clock tower. This fine example of Victorian Gothic architecture is the former Customs House which dates back to the 1870s.
The Frist Art Museum – a free tourist destination for guests under 18 – is located at 919 Broadway. You should visit before you leave.
Address: 919 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203, United States
2. Marvel at the Tropical Plants at Gaylord Opryland Resort Gardens
With about 50,000 tropical plants spread over nine acres of indoor gardens, Gaylord Opryland Resort Gardens is a delight to see.
Spend time admiring the beauty of flowers in the garden. Even if you are not a gardener, you will be impressed by the rare and unusual crop of flowers here.
The Delta Atrium door is adorned with equally magnificent southern magnolias to add to the Southern feel of this garden, which has about 1,500 plants, including 30 species of camellias, in the fragrant Delta.
Address: 2800 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214, United States
3. Marvel at the View From the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge
The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge is one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world. It spans a mindblowing distance of over 3,150 meters.
Formerly known as the Sparkman Street Bridge and Shelby Street Bridge, it connects the historic district with Riverside Park and the East Bank Greenway, with free parking and East Nashville accommodation.
Strolling down this bridge gives you breathtaking views of the Cumberland River and the Nashville sky. It’s a beauty to behold!
Address: Nashville, TN 37213, United States
Cheap Things To Do In Nashville (TN)
1. Music City Walk of Fame
The Music City Walk of Fame Park is located on the grass of Hilton Nashville Downtown.
Just nearby, the park features stainless steel and terrazzo stars, honoring each dignitary for their contribution and achievements in the music industry.
Admission here is free and open to the public. Some celebrities that adorn the Walk of Fame Park include names such as Trace Adkins, Garth Brooks, Steven Curtis Chapman, Charlie Daniels, and Reba McEntire.
Address: 121 4th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203, United States
Also see: 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Cleveland (TN)
2. Tennessee State Museum
The Tennessee State Museum contributes to the local culture of Nashville with its numerous art collections and exhibitions, which tell the story of Tennessee from prehistoric times to the 1920s.
Exhibits here are also changed from time to time to meet contemporary demand.
Admission to the museum is free and very much open to the public.
Address: 1000 Rosa L Parks Blvd, Nashville, TN 37208, United States
3. Nashville Flea Market and Farmer’s Market
Nashville Flea Market holds the best stock if you want to shop for home items and groceries.
With over 2,000 booths with vendors from 30 provinces, whatever you can think of, you will find it here, from fresh food to meat and cheese and baked goods.
The market also has 14 locally managed restaurants and shops catering to dishes from around the world, should you want to stop by for some food.
An interesting fact also is that it is open all year round!
Address: 900 Rosa L Parks Blvd, Nashville, TN 37208, United States
Cool Places to Visit in Nashville (TN)
1. Grand Ole Opry
In 1974, the exhibition center moved from the Ryman Auditorium to the 4,000-seat Grand Ole Opry House northeast of the city.
Here, you can watch musicians entertain you with good country music, bluegrass, gospel, classical music, and popular and comedy music.
Don’t just read about it; buy your Grand Ole Opry Show Admission ticket in Nashville early to secure your seat and free parking at the nearby Opry Mills Mall.
You could also go on a guided tour of the Grand Ole Opry House backstage. It promises to be everything you imagined.
Address: 2804 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214, United States
2. Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum window design makes it look like piano keys, which is really appealing to the eyes!
The museum has a multi-media exhibition of historical performances, costumes, ornaments, gold records, and monuments.
Other highlights include a Cadillac owned by Elvis, a 40-foot large guitar, a tour bus, and a recording booth.
You could also go on a guided tour of the nearby RCA Studio. Visit the museum and enhance your experience with a good backup of stars like Dolly Parton.
Address: 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN 37203, United States
3. Ryman Auditorium
The Ryman Auditorium, originally opened as the Union Gospel Tabernacle, offers high-quality acoustics for the classic performances of classical and bluegrass, theater music, and television shows.
The hall has a museum with exhibits related to its past musical past. Guided and non-guided tours are available.
Exciting behind-the-scenes tours are available, but book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Address: 116 5th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37219, United States
Also see: 27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Cookeville (TN)
Conclusion
Nashville has a lot to offer to tourists seeking to have fun, comfort, and entertainment.
Don’t miss out on all the city has to offer, from parks to theaters, cinemas, and bars. Make our checklist of things to do in Nashville (TN) your guide. It promises to be worth it. Happy travels!
