Discover Nashville: Music City’s Guide to the Best Things to Do

There's no better place to start than Lower Broadway, where neon-lit honky-tonks pour out live country music from morning until late night. Bar-hop between iconic spots like Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, catch up-and-coming artists, and soak up the energy that earned Nashville the nickname Music City.

Trace the roots of American music at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, step inside the legendary Ryman Auditorium, and explore the Johnny Cash Museum on Lower Broadway. A short drive away, Music Row and the Grand Ole Opry complete Nashville's story as the heart of country music.

Nashville's food scene is a destination in itself. Dig into fiery Nashville hot chicken at spots like Hattie B's and Prince's, savour slow-smoked BBQ, and try a classic meat-and-three. Round it out with Southern steakhouses, brunch favourites, and the famous Pancake Pantry.

Beyond the music, Nashville surprises with rich culture. Visit the Frist Art Museum's rotating exhibitions, stroll Centennial Park to see the world's only full-scale replica of the Parthenon, and explore the Adventure Science Center and historic sites that reveal the city's deeper heritage.

After dark, Nashville keeps the party going. Sip cocktails at rooftop bars overlooking the skyline, catch a headline act at the Grand Ole Opry or a downtown music venue, and explore the bars of Broadway and East Nashville for everything from line dancing to indie shows.

The buzzing heart of Music City, Downtown and Lower Broadway are lined with neon honky-tonks, live music, and big-name attractions. Stay here for easy walking access to the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Ryman Auditorium, the Johnny Cash Museum, and the riverfront.

A sleek, walkable district just south of Broadway, The Gulch is known for its trendy restaurants, rooftop bars, boutique shopping, and the famous What Lifts You angel-wings mural. It's ideal for first-time visitors who want a central, modern base close to the action.

Hip, creative, and full of character, East Nashville is the city's go-to for indie music venues, craft cocktail bars, vintage shops, and some of the best independent restaurants in town. Cross the river for a more local, laid-back side of Music City.

One of Nashville's most photogenic neighbourhoods, 12 South is packed with boutiques, coffee shops, popular brunch spots, and famous murals. Its walkable, tree-lined streets make it a favourite for shopping, people-watching, and easygoing afternoons.

Nashville's oldest neighbourhood blends historic architecture with a celebrated food scene. Germantown is home to acclaimed restaurants, cozy cafés, the Nashville Farmers' Market, and Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, offering a refined yet relaxed atmosphere.

Close to Vanderbilt University, Midtown buzzes with bars, restaurants, and nightlife, while neighbouring Music Row is the historic centre of Nashville's recording industry. It's a lively area for visitors who want to be near both the music business and the social scene.

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Just 30 minutes south of Nashville, historic Franklin charms visitors with its beautifully preserved Main Street, Civil War history, antique shops, and acclaimed restaurants. It's an easy, picture-perfect escape from the city.

About 90 minutes from Nashville, the small town of Lynchburg is home to the world-famous Jack Daniel's Distillery. Tour the historic distillery, learn the art of Tennessee whiskey, and soak up classic Southern small-town atmosphere.

A 3-hour drive west, Memphis is a music pilgrimage in its own right. Visit Graceland, walk legendary Beale Street, and explore the soul and blues heritage that, together with Nashville, defines Tennessee's musical legacy.

Around 2 hours southeast, Chattanooga is an outdoor lover's playground. Ride the Incline Railway up Lookout Mountain, see Ruby Falls and Rock City, and enjoy the scenic riverfront, making it a great nature-focused day trip.

For a longer escape, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and gateway towns like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge lie about 3.5 hours east. Expect misty mountain trails, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife in America's most-visited national park.

Just over 90 minutes north in Kentucky, Mammoth Cave National Park protects the longest known cave system in the world. Guided tours through its vast underground passages make for an unforgettable day trip from Nashville.