Nashville is a great city for music lovers, foodies, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. It is also a rapidly growing city, with a population that has increased by over 20% in the past decade. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a longtime resident, there’s always something new to do in Nashville. Here are our top 8 things to do in Nashville:
Listen to Live Music on Broadway
Broadway in downtown Nashville is known for its live music venues, which feature a wide range of genres, including country, rock, pop, and blues. Visitors can find music performances every night of the week, making it easy to enjoy some of Nashville’s best-known attractions.
While many of the city’s music venues are located on Broadway, there are also a number of smaller clubs and bars that feature live music throughout the week. And if you’re feeling really adventurous, you can even catch a glimpse of up-and-coming stars at one of the many open mic nights that are held throughout the city.
Whether you’re looking for an intimate setting or a rowdy night out, you’re sure to find a live music venue that suits your taste in Nashville.
Sample the Local Cuisine
When it comes to sampling the local fare, there are a few must-try dishes. One of Nashville’s signature dishes is hot chicken, a spicy chicken dish that originated in the city’s African-American community. Hot chicken is usually served with white bread and pickles, and it can be found at many of the city’s restaurants.
Another popular dish is Tennessee whiskey, which can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. From cocktails and shots to cooking and baking, whiskey is an integral part of Nashville’s food culture. And, of course, no visit to Nashville would be complete without trying some of the city’s famous barbecue.
There are many great restaurants to choose from in Nashville, so you’re sure to find something to your taste.
Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame
The Country Music Hall of Fame is one of Nashville’s most popular tourist attractions. The museum traces the history of country music from its roots in folk and bluegrass to its current popularity. Visitors can see instruments, stage costumes, and other memorabilia from some of country music’s most famous performers.
The Country Music Hall of Fame is also home to a number of interactive exhibits, which allow visitors to learn about the making of country music. And if you’re a fan of live music, be sure to check out the museum’s concert series, which features performances by up-and-coming country artists.
Take a Scenic Drive
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Nashville is to take a scenic drive. Though the city is home to a number of world-renowned attractions, sometimes it’s nice to just get out and explore the countryside. Fortunately, there are plenty of scenic routes to choose from in and around Nashville.
For a truly breathtaking experience, try driving out to see the sunset over the Cumberland River. Or, for something a little closer to town, head out to Percy Warner Park for a leisurely drive through the woods.
You can also visit one of Nashville’s many state parks, which offer a variety of hiking and biking trails.
Shop at One of Nashville’s Many Markets
Nashville also has a thriving market scene. From farmer’s markets to flea markets, there are plenty of places to find unique gifts and treasures. The Nashville Farmers’ Market is a great place to shop for local produce, artisanal goods, and more.
There’s also the Nashville Flea Market, which features a wide variety of vendors selling everything from antiques to vintage clothing.
And for those who want to experience a truly one-of-a-kind shopping experience, there’s the Bicentennial Mall State Park Market. This market features a wide variety of local vendors selling everything from handcrafted jewelry to homemade jams and jellies. No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it at one of Nashville’s many markets.
Visit the Nashville Zoo
The Nashville Zoo is one of the city’s top family-friendly attractions. It is a great place to visit for animal lovers of all ages. With over 380 different species of animals, the zoo offers something for everyone.
The African Savannah is one of the most popular exhibits, where visitors can see lions, zebras, and giraffes roaming freely. For a closer look at some of the smaller animals, the Forest Edge exhibit features red pandas, pygmy hippos, and endangered turtles.
The zoo also has an Education Center where kids can learn about animal conservation and participate in hands-on activities. And don’t forget to check out the zoo’s calendar of events, which includes educational programs, live music, and more.
Visit the Belle Meade Plantation
A visit to the Belle Meade Plantation is a must for anyone interested in American history. Located just outside of Nashville, the plantation was once one of the largest and most prosperous in the South. Today, visitors can tour the mansion, which has been painstakingly restored to its antebellum glory and learn about the plantation’s role in the Civil War.
The grounds of the plantation are also home to stables, where visitors can see some of the world’s finest Tennessee Walking Horses. With its fascinating history and beautiful setting, the Belle Meade Plantation is an unforgettable experience.
Go on a Brewery Tour
If you’re a fan of craft beer, then a brewery tour is a must-do when visiting Nashville. The city is home to a number of acclaimed breweries, including Tennessee Brew Works and Yazoo Brewing Company.
Tours typically last around two hours and include samples of the brewery’s best-selling beers. You’ll also learn about the brewing process and get a behind-the-scenes look at how your favorite beers are made.
Best of all, most tours end with a discount on purchases made in the taproom. So whether you’re a beer lover or just looking for something fun to do, be sure to go on a brewery tour when you’re in Nashville.
Conclusion
Nashville is a city with something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history and nature or just want to have a good time, there’s sure to be an activity that’s perfect for you. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Nashville today!