Looking for the best things to do in Nashville? You’re in the right place.

Known as Music City USA, Nashville is the heart of country music and one of the most exciting destinations in Tennessee. From free live music on Honky Tonk Highway to world-class museums, historic landmarks, and unforgettable Southern food, the city offers something for everyone.

I’ve put together this local’s guide to help you experience Nashville like an insider. From the Grand Ole Opry to hidden neighborhoods, these are the must-visit spots that make the city truly special. If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Nashville TN, this guide covers top attractions, hidden gems, and must-visit places for every type of traveler.

From live music to historic landmarks, there are endless things to do in Nashville, Tennessee, that make it one of the most exciting cities in the US.

Top 5 Must-See Things to Do in Nashville

Experience the Grand Ole Opry

The Grand Ole Opry has been running for 100 years. That makes it the longest-running radio show in the world. The show moved to the Opry House in 1974. The venue holds 4,372 people in cushioned pew seating. This is easily one of the top places to visit in Nashville for tourists looking to experience the city’s culture.

What Makes the Grand Ole Opry Special

The backstage tour starts in the Circle Room. You’ll see country stars in hologram form, inviting you into 100 years of history. Walk through the Artist Entrance, where performers arrive each night. You’ll pass by a fountain that once sat in Minnie Pearl’s backyard.

The Family Room is where artists gather with loved ones before shows. You can taste the famous backstage lemonade on Post-Show Tours. The employee who makes it earned the nickname “Lemonade” because artists love it so much.

The tour ends on stage in the wooden circle. These planks came from the Ryman Auditorium stage when the Opry moved in 1974. Countless country legends stood on this same wood.

Your tour ticket also gets you into the Roy Acuff House. That’s where WSM Radio broadcasts the Opry every Saturday night.

Grand Ole Opry Ticket Options

Several ticket packages let you customize your visit:

• Standard Show Ticket: Attend the live show (about 2 hours with a 15-minute intermission)
• Post Show Tour: Walk backstage right after a show ends, see dressing rooms, step into the Circle
• Premium Pass: Lounge access one hour before showtime with top-shelf drinks and food, plus an artist meet-and-greet
• VIP Experience: Private backstage tour, stage seating for the first half, dressing room access, professional photo

Grand Ole Opry Getting There and Parking

The Opry House sits at 600 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville, TN 37214. Free parking is available at Opry Mills mall (park near Dave & Buster’s for the shortest walk). Paid parking next to the venue connects via a covered walkway.

Lyft is the official rideshare partner. New users get 50% off the first 2 rides (up to $10 each) with code GOOPRY. It’s one of the most popular Nashville attractions that you shouldn’t miss on your trip.

Google Maps | Grand Ole Opry |

Honky Tonk on Lower Broadway

Lower Broadway hits you with neon lights, live guitars, and wall-to-wall honky tonks. The music starts at 10 am and runs until 3 am. Walk into any venue without paying a cover charge.

Lower Broadway Must-Visit Bars

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge sits right across the alley from the Ryman. The venue has four stages and three bars hosting local talent all day. Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Patsy Cline all performed here. If you enjoy iconic music cities, you might also like exploring other top travel destinations on our website.

Robert’s Western World preserves traditional country music on the strip. Order the Recession Special: fried bologna sandwich, chips, Moon Pie, and a PBR for $6. That’s the best deal in Nashville.

Legends Corner operates on the corner of 5th Avenue. The west-facing wall features a mural of country music legends. You’ll find great bands without the packed crowds of bigger venues.

The Stage has been around for decades. An original oil painting of The Highwaymen hangs over the front door. It once belonged to Waylon Jennings.

Lower Broadway Free Live Music

Bands rotate constantly, so the sound never stops. Musicians play for tips since most places skip the cover charge. Bring cash and drop some in the tip jar when you hear something you like.

Lower Broadway Bar Hopping Tips

Head downtown early to skip the longest lines. Many honky tonks have multiple floors and bars. If the first level is packed, try the next one.

Tootsie’s, Robert’s Western World, The Stage, and Legends Corner all have second entrances. The front might be slammed while the back door stays clear.

Skip the parking headache and take a rideshare. Bars stay open until 3 am, so pace yourself. Wear closed-toe shoes because people will step on your feet all night.

Google Maps | Honky Tonk |

Tour the Historic Ryman Auditorium

The Ryman sits one block off Lower Broadway at 116 Rep. John Lewis Way North. More than 130 years of music history lives inside those walls.

Why the Ryman is Called Mother Church of Country Music

A riverboat captain named Thomas Ryman built this venue in 1892. He called it Union Gospel Tabernacle because he wanted a place for traveling evangelists to preach. The building started as a church, which explains the wooden pews and stained-glass windows you’ll see today.

The Grand Ole Opry moved here in 1943 and stayed until 1974. Earl Scruggs made his Opry debut with Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys in 1945, creating the bluegrass sound right on this stage. That’s why people call it the birthplace of bluegrass music.

The venue almost fell apart after the Opry left. Gaylord Entertainment Company bought it in 1989 and restored the building. It reopened in 1994 as a concert hall and museum. The National Historic Landmark designation came in 2001.If you’re interested in exploring more iconic U.S. destinations, you can also check out this guide on things to do in San Francisco for more travel inspiration.

Ryman Auditorium Self-Guided vs Guided Tours

Tours run daily from 9 am to 4 pm. The self-guided tour costs $35.80 and takes about an hour. You’ll see the new Opry 100 exhibit with artifacts from Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, and Dolly Parton. The Unexpected Company exhibit shows surprising guests like Harry Houdini and Clint Eastwood.

The guided backstage tour runs $47.40 for 1.5 hours. This gets you into dressing rooms and backstage areas where artists prepare before shows. The VIP tour costs $62.50 and includes a commemorative poster and lanyard.

Ryman Auditorium Concert Schedule

The venue holds 2,362 people in original wooden pews. You’ll find way more than country acts here. Elvis, Harry Styles, Wu-Tang Clan, and Lizzo all performed on this stage. Check the official calendar for upcoming shows because the schedule changes constantly.

Google Maps | Ryman Auditorium |

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

More than 2 million artifacts fill the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. The nonprofit’s mission is simple: collect, preserve, and interpret country music history. You’ll find this massive collection at 222 Rep. John Lewis Way South, right in downtown Nashville.

Country Music Hall of Fame Top Exhibits

Elvis Presley’s gold-plated Cadillac sits in the permanent collection. That alone is worth the visit. The American Currents: State of the Music exhibit updates annually and shows what happened in country music over the past year. The current installation runs through January 2026 in the ACM Gallery.

Special exhibits rotate throughout the year. Access to the Dolly Parton: Journey of a Seeker exhibit comes with museum admission. You’ll see stage costumes from the 1950s forward, rare recordings, and personal items like notepad doodles. The museum also features interactive stations where kids can explore with magnifying glasses from the young explorer kit. If you’re planning multi-city travel in the U.S., you can also check our guide on traveling from San Antonio to Dallas.

Country Music Hall of Fame Package Deals

The combo ticket gets you into three attractions: the museum, RCA Studio B, and Hatch Show Print. You’ll take a guided tour of the studio where Elvis and Dolly recorded hits, then create your own vintage poster at Hatch Show Print. Book ahead because capacity is limited.

Country Music Hall of Fame: How Long to Spend

Plan for at least 2 hours to see everything. The museum opens daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Peak crowds hit between 11 am and 2 pm, so arrive earlier or later for a more relaxed visit. Standard admission costs USD 29.99. Guided tours run USD 54.95 and include museum re-entry.

Google Maps | Country Music Hall |

See the Parthenon and Centennial Park

Centennial Park sits at 2500 West End Avenue, covering 132 acres of green space. The Parthenon stands as the centerpiece of one of Nashville’s best outdoor spots.

Parthenon Full-Scale Replica Details

This is the world’s only exact-size replica of the original Parthenon in Athens. Nashville built it for the 1897 Tennessee Centennial Exposition using plaster because it was supposed to be temporary. People loved it so much that the city rebuilt it with concrete between 1921 and 1931.

Inside, you’ll find a 42-foot-tall statue of Athena covered in gold leaf. Nashville sculptor Alan LeQuire spent eight years creating it, and it was unveiled in 1990. It’s the tallest indoor sculpture in the Western Hemisphere. The lower level holds an art museum with 63 paintings by 19th and 20th-century American artists.

The Parthenon closes from March 1 through June 28, 2026, for HVAC system replacement. During the closure, you can still enjoy the exterior and take outdoor audio tours available in English, Spanish, and Arabic.

Centennial Park Green Spaces

The park features a one-mile walking trail around Lake Watauga. You’ll find sunken gardens, a dog park with separate areas for small and large breeds, sand volleyball courts, and a 19-acre great lawn restored in 2020. Over 3 million people visit each year.

Centennial Park Activities and Events

Musicians Corner brings free live music to the park every May, June, and September. Past performers include Chris Stapleton, Emmylou Harris, and Vince Gill. The park also hosts Shakespeare productions, the Tennessee Craft Fair, Nashville Earth Day, and food festivals throughout the year.

Google Maps | Parthenon and Centennial Park |

Best Food & Drinks in Nashville

Dine at the Loveless Cafe

Lon and Annie Loveless started serving fried chicken and biscuits from their home on Highway 100 back in 1951. That simple front porch operation turned into one of Nashville’s most famous breakfast spots.

Loveless Cafe Famous Biscuits

The kitchen churns out up to 10,000 biscuits every single day. In 2019 alone, they served over 3,000,000 of them. These aren’t just any biscuits. Annie’s original recipe remains a closely guarded secret, passed down through generations. The petite breads rise tall and fluffy, served by the basketful with small-batch preserves made down the road. USA Today called them Nashville’s second-most-important contribution to American culture.

If you’re planning longer West Coast trips, you can also explore our San Francisco to Los Angeles travel route guide.

Loveless Cafe Menu Highlights

The Famous Loveless Cafe Country Ham runs $18.00 with two eggs and red-eye gravy. Fried chicken has kept the same legendary recipe since 1951, starting at $15.50 for a quarter chicken. Try the pit-cooked pork barbecue smoked for 22 hours in Tennessee hickory. Weekly specials rotate, so Monday brings Smoked Bologna Tennessee Steak while Friday features Smoked Dry Rub Ribs.

Loveless Cafe Best Times to Visit

The cafe opens at 7 AM and closes at 9 PM. Weekend wait times stretch long, especially mid-morning. Visit mid-week or arrive early Sunday morning instead. While you wait, rock on the front porch or play cornhole out back.

Google Maps | Loveless Cafe |

Browse Nashville Farmers Market

The Nashville Farmers Market sprawls across 16 acres at 900 Rosa L. Parks Boulevard. Free parking makes it easy to visit, and it sits right next to the Tennessee State Museum.

Nashville Farmers Market Fresh Produce

Two large covered outdoor sheds house more than 100 farmers, artisans, and small businesses year-round. You’ll see ranchers, dairy farmers, cheese-makers, bakers, and merchants. They sell honey, jams, and jellies straight from the farm.

Peak growing season runs from May through November. April brings spring vegetables and sweet strawberries. June and July feature peaches, tomatoes, sweet corn, and watermelon. Fall delivers pumpkins, squash, more tomatoes, and turnip greens before harvest ends in November.

Nashville Farmers Market Food Stalls

The indoor Market House hosts around 20 restaurants and shops. You can grab Neapolitan wood-fired pizzas, gyro sandwiches, Jamaican jerk chicken, Korean bibimbap, vegan tacos, and more. Jeni’s Ice Cream, Farm City Coffee, and Music City Crepes anchor the space.

Nashville Farmers Market Operating Hours

Outdoor farm sheds open Friday through Sunday from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM (March through October). November through February hours shift to 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The Market House building operates daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Individual vendor hours vary, so confirm directly before visiting.

Google Maps | Nashville Farmers’ Market |

Walk Across the John Seigenthaler Bridge

This 3,150-foot bridge stretches across the Cumberland River, connecting downtown to East Nashville. Built between 1907 and 1909, it’s one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world. The National Register of Historic Places added it in 1998.

John Seigenthaler Bridge Sunset Views

Sunset from the middle of this bridge is spectacular. The city lights reflect on the water as the sky changes colors. At night, the bridge lights up dramatically. You’ll get panoramic views of downtown skyscrapers, the Cumberland River, and Nissan Stadium.

John Seigenthaler Bridge Connection to Cumberland Park

The eastern end connects to Cumberland Park with spray fountains, a climbing wall, and walking trails. Park in the free lot beside Cumberland Park, then take the elevator up to the bridge. This saves you from downtown parking headaches.

John Seigenthaler Bridge Photo Spots

This is Nashville’s most classic photo opportunity. Four scenic overlooks along the bridge give you different angles of the skyline. The white steel trusses create a sculptural backdrop. Photographers love the consistent lighting throughout the day. Other visitors taking photos are usually polite about staying out of your shot.

Google Maps | John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge |

Music & Museums in Nashville

Explore the Johnny Cash Museum

Forbes ranked this museum the #1 music museum in the world. Nearly 2 million visitors have walked through since it opened in 2013. Bill Miller, a close friend of Cash for 30 years, built this collection from items he kept in his California home.

Johnny Cash Museum Must-See Items

You’ll see handwritten lyrics, personal letters, and family photographs that show Cash’s creative process. His Air Force uniform sits on display next to the San Quentin prison jumpsuit he wore for that legendary concert. The old Martin guitar features a folded dollar bill woven between the strings. Cash used it to create percussion sounds before hiring a drummer in the 1950s.

The Sun Records section features memorabilia from Elvis, Roy Orbison, and Jerry Lee Lewis. You’ll find Orbison’s signature glasses and a microphone Elvis used. Props and costumes from Walk the Line are scattered throughout. A stone wall salvaged from Johnny and June’s Hendersonville home stands inside the museum.

The Hurt video plays as you exit. That Nine Inch Nails cover was Cash’s last hit.

Johnny Cash Museum Bar and Live Music

Johnny Cash’s Bar & BBQ sits next door. The restaurant serves fried chicken, classic BBQ, and Southern favorites with free live music.

Johnny Cash Museum Ticket Prices

General admission costs USD 27.95 plus tax. Youth ages 6-15 pay USD 23.95 plus tax. Kids 5 and under get in free with an adult.

Google Maps | Johnny Cash Museum |

Tour Cheekwood Estate and Botanical Gardens

Leslie Cheek Sr. and Mabel Wood Cheek’s Georgian mansion sits on 55 acres of botanical gardens. Cheekwood feels like stepping into a different world, far from the honky tonks downtown.

Cheekwood Gardens Seasonal Highlights

Spring brings the main event. Cheekwood in Bloom covers the estate with 250,000 red and white tulips, purple-blue violas, and hyacinths. The 2026 display honors America’s 250th anniversary. Daffodils add bright yellows and pure whites to the palette.

You’ll find 13 distinct gardens scattered across the property. The Blevins Japanese Garden guides you on a meditative journey to a mountain retreat scene. Kids love the Brackens Foundation Children’s Garden with its interactive features. Howe Garden showcases wildflowers as a tribute to Mrs. Cora Howe.

Cheekwood Estate Mansion Tour

Audio tours run 45 minutes and are included with admission. Former Writer-in-Residence Cecelia Tichi narrates stories from the 1930s and 1940s. Guided Walk Up tours happen Tuesday through Sunday and last about an hour.

Cheekwood Estate Holiday Light Shows

Holiday LIGHTS runs November 21, 2025, through January 4, 2026. Tickets range from USD 26.00 to USD 32.00 for adults. The estate transforms with millions of lights along a one-mile walking path.

Google Maps | Cheekwood Estate |

Discover Belle Meade Historic Site

Belle Meade Historic Site sits on 30 acres just west of downtown. This isn’t your typical museum visit. You get history, bourbon, wine, and Southern food all in one spot.

Belle Meade Plantation Tours

The main attraction is the 45-minute guided tour through the 1853 Greek Revival mansion. Your ticket includes a complimentary wine tasting afterward at the on-site winery (if you’re 21+).

The mansion tour covers the Harding and Jackson families, who ran one of the most influential thoroughbred farms in American racing history. But there’s more to the story. The Journey to Jubilee tour digs into the lives of enslaved people who were brought to Belle Meade from 1807 through the years after Emancipation. This tour explores how they transitioned from slavery to contract labor and their role in thoroughbred racing.

For outdoor history buffs, the Battle of Belle Meade walking tour spans multiple locations across the property. You’ll learn how the families and enslaved people experienced the Civil War firsthand.

Families with kids 12 and under should book the Family Tours. These 90-minute adventures include a guided exploration plus hands-on crafts in the History Makers Space located in the old Dairy. While your kids work on activities, you get that complimentary wine tasting.

Belle Meade Bourbon Tastings

The bourbon experiences here are top-notch. The signature Bourbon Experience costs $40 per person and runs Friday through Sunday at 11:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 2:00 PM, and 3:30 PM. This hour-long session happens in the historic Ice House. You’ll learn to savor bourbon neat, sip cocktails, and craft your own signature drink with guidance from certified bourbon stewards.

Want something shorter? The Bourbon Mixology Experience also costs $40 but only takes 30 minutes. You’ll mix your own cocktail using Belle Meade Bourbon with seasonal juices, handcrafted syrups, bitters, and garnishes. You even get to take home your custom drinkware and a recipe card for your creation.

Both experiences require you to arrive 15 minutes early at the Visitor’s Center. Late arrivals can’t be accommodated because every minute counts. They have a 24-hour cancellation policy for full refunds.

Belle Meade Grounds and Architecture

The Greek Revival mansion was built in 1853 after an extensive remodel. The front portico features six massive limestone pillars quarried right on the property. These Doric-style columns stand 22 feet tall, each made from two huge stones.

Inside, the 14-foot-high entrance hall runs the full length of the house from west to east. This design follows the prevailing wind direction for natural cooling. The walls display thoroughbred horse paintings by famous 19th-century artists.

The grounds include 10 historic outbuildings scattered across the property. You can explore the original 1790s log cabin that John Harding purchased in 1807, a 1826 smokehouse that was the largest in the South, an 1884 dairy, and an impressive 1892 carriage house.

After touring, grab lunch at The Belle Meade Meat & Three restaurant on-site. The grounds also have walking trails, outdoor game courts, and gift shops.

Google Maps | Belle Meade Historic Site |

Visit RCA Studio B and Music Row

RCA Studio B earned its nickname as Nashville’s “Home of 1,000 Hits” for good reason. Built in 1957, this legendary recording facility operated for 20 years and became the birthplace of the Nashville Sound. Over 47,000 songs were recorded here, with 1,000 becoming hits.

RCA Studio B Elvis Recording Sessions

Elvis Presley made this studio his Nashville home base. He recorded more than 240 songs at Studio B. The drive from Memphis took just three and a half hours, so he’d often arrive way past midnight.

Inside, you’ll find a Steinway piano that Elvis loved to play. Every tour guest gets to sit at this exact piano (but you can’t play it). Standing in the same room where The King recorded his hits gives you chills.

Elvis recorded “Are You Lonesome Tonight” in total darkness. He asked the staff to turn off all the studio lights to create a somber mood. For his Christmas albums, recorded in May or June, the crew decorated the entire studio with Christmas themes to set the right vibe.

RCA Studio B Interactive Tour Experience

Tours run seven days a week between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM. You can’t visit Studio B independently. Tours depart from the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and transportation is included.

The Studio B Experience costs $49.95 for adults and $39.95 for youth ages 6-12. Your ticket includes museum admission and the one-hour Studio B tour. Book in advance because spots fill up fast.

Here’s the highlight: your guide turns off the lights and plays an actual Elvis recording session from that very room. With the volume cranked up, you can almost feel his presence. It’s the best tour experience among all the things to do in Nashville.

Dolly Parton has her own Studio B story. She was running late for her first recording session and sped into the parking lot in her brand new car. She didn’t stop until she hit the wall of the brand new building. Dolly now jokes that she had her first “smash hit” at Studio B.

Other legends who recorded here include Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Roy Orbison, and the Everly Brothers. Dolly recorded “I Will Always Love You” here in 1973.

Music Row Historic Significance

Music Row has been Nashville’s music industry focal point for almost 70 years. The area houses around 500 music-related businesses. Songwriters here churn out roughly 1,000 songs daily.

Chet Atkins ran Studio B and produced hundreds of hits between 1957 and 1973. He helped create the Nashville Sound, a sophisticated style with background vocals and strings. This new approach won over audiences who’d never listened to country music before.

The Mike Curb Family Foundation purchased Studio B in 2002 and leased it to the Country Music Hall of Fame for $1.00 per year. In 2015, the National Trust for Historic Preservation designated Music Row as a National Treasure.

Studio B still functions as a recording space. Recent albums include Marty Stuart’s Grammy-winning “Ghost Train” in 2010.

Google Maps | RCA Studio B |

Experience Free Music at the Tennessee State Museum

Free admission to a world-class museum? The Tennessee State Museum delivers exactly that. No tickets. No fees. Just walk in and explore Tennessee’s story from prehistoric times to the present day. If you’re still deciding what to do in Nashville, these spots offer a perfect mix of entertainment, history, and local experiences.

Tennessee State Museum Collections

The museum calls itself the “Smithsonian of Tennessee“. That’s not an exaggeration. The collection contains artifacts representing Tennessee and its people across thousands of years.

Walk through 137,000 square feet of exhibit space. You’ll see art, furniture, textiles, and photographs all produced by Tennesseans. The museum acquired these significant artifacts over several decades.

Point often overlooked: the museum also manages the Tennessee Historical Society collection, which the state began overseeing in 1927. These items rotate through exhibits as time and resources permit. The permanent collection includes exhibited items, digital archives, and stored pieces.

Tennessee State Museum Tennessee History

Six permanent exhibitions tell Tennessee’s complete story. They start with First Peoples (13,000 BCE to 1760 CE) and continue chronologically through Forging a Nation (1760 to 1860), Civil War and Reconstruction (1860 to 1870), Change and Challenge (1870 to 1945), and Tennessee Transforms (1945 to Present).

That final gallery shows how post-war innovations impacted Tennesseans, the African-American struggle for prosperity, and how Tennessee’s music industries shaped outsiders’ view of the state.

Speaking of music, The Tennessee Playlist exhibit opened in October 2023 and runs through 2028. This 4,000-square-foot gallery explores the state’s diverse musical sounds. You’ll see performance costumes worn by Johnny Cash, Chet Atkins, and Isaac Hayes. Dolly Parton’s guitar sits in a display case. DJ equipment from DJ Spanish Fly and producer Tay Keith shows how hip-hop evolved here.

The exhibit covers Southeastern Indian music traditions, folk music, hymns and spirituals, the Fisk Jubilee Singers, classical music, blues, gospel, country music origins, rhythm & blues, rockabilly, rock and roll, soul music, southern rap, Mariachi, and Kurdish music. Interactive media displays let you actually hear these sounds.

Tennessee State Museum Free Entry Details

Admission is completely free. The museum sits at the corner of Rosa L. Parks Boulevard and Jefferson Street, right next to the Nashville Farmers Market at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park.

Hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Sunday hours run from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The museum closes on Mondays, New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

Free parking is available. You can also take the bus because several stops sit nearby. Nashville BCycle stations and bike racks make cycling an option.

Want a guided experience? Free highlight tours run daily at 2:00 PM every day the museum opens. The Children’s Gallery caters specifically to kids aged 3 to 8. It closes 30 minutes earlier than the museum itself.

Google Maps | Tennessee State Museum |

Nashville by Neighborhood

Shop and Snap Photos in The Gulch

Twenty years ago, The Gulch was just a train yard with warehouses and gravel parking lots. Now it’s one of Nashville’s trendiest neighborhoods. The area transformed into a walkable community packed with boutique hotels, high-rise condos, and some of the best things to do in Nashville.

The Gulch Angel Wings Mural

You’ll find Nashville’s most famous photo op at 302 11th Ave S. The What Lifts You Wings mural features intricate white lace wings painted against a black wall. Artist Kelsey Montague created this Instagram-worthy masterpiece.

Here’s a tip from a local bus driver: stand a little away from the wall to get the best wings effect. Don’t just snap and leave. There’s also a smaller set of wings right next to the main ones. Perfect for kids or your furry friends.

But be ready to wait. Lines can stretch 30 minutes on weekends. Come early in the morning to avoid crowds and harsh lighting. The mural sits right behind Taziki’s, near Biscuit Love.

The Gulch Shopping Destinations

The Gulch mixes local boutiques with well-known retailers. Kittenish at 304 11th Ave S is country singer Jessie James Decker’s store. It’s pink, feminine, and incredibly photogenic. The dressing room mirrors even say “that booty though” to hype you up.

Other local favorites include Blush Boutique, Parish, and e.Allen. You’ll also find larger names like Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Lululemon, and Patagonia scattered throughout. Carter Vintage Guitars appeals to music lovers, while Lucchese and Nashville Boot Co. cater to anyone wanting authentic boots.

The shopping scene stays compact and walkable. Most stores cluster along 11th and 12th Avenues.

The Gulch Dining Scene

The culinary options here span way beyond typical Nashville fare. Biscuit Love Gulch serves what some call “the best sandwich in America“. Try the East Nasty with fried chicken, cheddar, and sausage gravy on a biscuit. Start with bonuts (biscuit donuts).

Chauhan Ale & Masala House marries Indian dishes with Southern ingredients. The gol guppa shots make a great appetizer before diving into the desi fare section. For barbecue, Peg Leg Porker delivers finger-licking dry-rub ribs and pulled pork sandwiches.

Want something different? Emmy Squared introduced Detroit-style pizza to Nashville. Otaku Ramen fills the noodle bowl gap with shoyu tonkotsu and tantanmen. Iberian Pig focuses on Spanish ham, bacon-wrapped dates, and pork cheek tacos.

The diversity means you can find everything from traditional ramen to Indian food to soul food in one neighborhood. That makes The Gulch one of the most exciting areas for fun things to do in Nashville.

Google Maps | The Gulch |

Explore the 12th South Neighborhood

Walk down this mile-long stretch, and you’ll see why locals love 12 South. The area sits about 10 minutes from downtown and feels completely different from the honky-tonk scene. College students grab coffee at local shops. Moms push strollers along the sidewalks. It’s one of Nashville’s trendiest neighborhoods, but it still keeps that walkable, community vibe.

12th South Street Art

The I Believe in Nashville mural became an icon after the 2019 tornadoes and the 2020 economic hit to hospitality. You’ll find it at 2702 12th Ave South, right across from Draper James.

Right there at Draper James sits the famous Blue and White Wall. The bold blue and white stripes make it impossible to resist. Groups dressed in pink stop here constantly for photos.

Walk to the side of Madewell at 2705 12th Ave South. The Looking Pretty in Music City mural stretches super long with a sherbet color palette. Perfect for multiple shots from different angles.

Near White Bison Coffee, you’ll spot a little Lego Man. Nashville artist Chris Tidwell signs all his work as Forbecks. He scattered these Lego men throughout the city to remind people to play well together. Other murals include Flowers, Nashville Looks Good on You, Make Music Not War, and the Predators Mural.

12th South Boutique Shopping

Imogene + Willie has anchored 12 South for over a decade. They design custom denim pieces in Nashville and make everything in the USA. The store also sells men’s and women’s clothing, shoes, and accessories.

Draper James is Reese Witherspoon’s flagship store. Think classic American style with Southern charm. This spot gets the most photos on 12 South.

White’s Mercantile functions as your one-stop gift shop. They stock trendy clothing, jewelry, kids’ items, and home decor all under one roof.

The 12 South Collection opened recently with national retailers like Paige, Rag & Bone, Oliver Peoples, Mejuri, and Alice and Olivia. You’ll also find LoveShackFancy, Gorjana for jewelry, and over 20 other local boutiques.

12th South Restaurant Recommendations

Burger Up uses grass-fed beef from local farms. They practice sustainable, humane animal treatment. You can taste the difference.

Urban Grub works perfectly for date night. Cozy fireplaces create romantic vibes. Expect to spend USD 50.00 to USD 100.00 per person. The seafood and Southern fare menu delivers quality.

Hearts serves Australian-inspired all-day breakfast. Their Twice Cooked French Toast stands out. Get there early because the wait stretches long on weekends.

Edley’s Bar-B-Que nails Tennessee barbecue. The pork sandwiches shine, but don’t skip the mac and cheese or banana pudding sides.

Other solid options include The Butter Milk Ranch for massive croissants[274], Epice for Lebanese cuisine, and Frothy Monkey for all-day cafe fare.

Google Maps | 12th South Neighborhood |

Things to Do in East Nashville

East Nashville is known for its artsy vibe, local cafes, and live music spots. It’s one of the best areas to explore if you’re looking for unique and offbeat things to do in Nashville, Tennessee.

Check Out the Frist Art Museum

Most museums show you the same collection year after year. The Frist Art Museum does the opposite. Because it has no permanent collection, something new always rotates through the galleries. You could visit twice in six months and see completely different art both times.

Frist Art Museum Rotating Exhibits

The museum puts on 12 to 15 exhibitions annually. Shows rotate in and out every few months. That creates urgency. If you wait too long, you miss it.

For instance, the Impressionist Revolution runs from February 26 through May 31, 2026. This exhibition features works by Monet, Matisse, van Gogh, Cézanne, and other masters from the Dallas Museum of Art collection. The show tells Impressionism’s story from its 1874 origins to its legacy in the early 20th century. You’ll see pieces by artists who were once considered scandalous renegades.

Martin ArtQuest functions as the interactive heart of the museum. This permanent gallery features 30 stations where visitors of all ages can draw, animate, make prints, and paint. The space includes a zoetrope, shadow theater, stop-motion animation tools, and an Everbright wall with color-changing dials. ArtQuest stays open the same hours as the museum. Youth 18 and under get free access.

The museum also organizes its own exhibitions and takes them to other institutions. One recent college show went from Nashville to the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, then to the Phillips Collection in Washington, D.C.

Frist Art Museum Architecture

The building itself deserves attention. Nashville’s former main post office was constructed from 1933 to 1934 by the local firm Marr & Holman. The white Georgia marble exterior with gray-pink Minnesota granite shows stripped classicism style. Inside, cast aluminum doors and grillwork display Art Deco design.

The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. It spans 124,400 square feet with more than 45,000 square feet of exhibition and public space. Free architecture tours run every Saturday and Sunday at 3:30 PM.

Frist Art Museum Admission and Hours

Admission Pricing:

• Members: Free
• Youth 18 and under: Free
• Adults: $20.00
• Seniors (65+), Military, College Students: $16.00 (in-person only)
• College students get free entry on Thursdays from 5:00 to 8:00 PM

The museum hours are:

• Monday: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
• Tuesday: Closed
• Wednesday: Closed
• Thursday: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Friday: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
• Saturday: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
• Sunday: 1:00 PM to 5:30 PM

Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

Google Maps | Frist Art Museum |

Historic Sites & Iconic Experiences

Tour Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage

Andrew Jackson’s home sits 12 miles east of downtown on 1,120 acres. This National Historic Landmark ranks as the third most visited presidential home in the country. Jackson lived here from 1804 until he died in 1845.

The Hermitage Presidential History

Jackson served as the 7th president from 1829 to 1837. He strengthened presidential power, defended the Union, and pushed America toward democracy. His legacy includes paying off the national debt and issuing new currency.

But there’s another story here. As many as 150 enslaved people worked this property at once. The estate includes restored slave cabins and tells their stories alongside Jackson’s. The Ladies’ Hermitage Association took over operations in 1889, making this one of America’s first historic site museums.

The Hermitage Property Tour Types

Your admission includes a film, museum exhibits, and a 25 to 30-minute guided mansion tour. You also get access to the grounds, gardens, Jackson’s Tomb, and historic buildings. An audio tour supplements your self-guided exploration.

Want more? The VIP Tour runs 90 minutes with an expert guide. You skip the mansion tour line and get exclusive balcony access. Photography inside the mansion is allowed on this tour. It accommodates up to 12 people and costs USD 69.95.

The In Their Footsteps tour explores enslaved community lives over 90 minutes. The Hermitage Enslaved Wagon Tour takes 30 minutes through the cotton fields. This costs USD 20.00 as an add-on.

Groups of 15 or more get discounted rates.

The Hermitage Ticket Pricing

Adult tickets cost USD 29.95. Seniors (62+) pay USD 26.95. Youth ages 5 to 12 get in for USD 19.95. Military veterans and active military pay USD 26.95. Children 4 and under enter free. The Family Pass (2 adults and 2 youth) costs USD 93.80.

Google Maps | Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage |

Catch a Show at the Bluebird Cafe

Snagging tickets to the Bluebird Cafe ranks as one of the toughest things to do in Nashville. This 90-seat venue sits in a strip mall next to a hair salon. But inside, magic happens nightly.

Bluebird Cafe Booking Reservations

Reservations only work through bluebirdcafe.com. You can reserve up to six seats per order. Tickets disappear fast. One visitor said hers sold out within ten minutes.

Here’s the release schedule: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday shows go on sale Monday at 8:00 AM CST. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday show release one week in advance at 8:00 AM CST. Monday’s 6:00 PM open mic stays entirely first-come, first-served.

Couldn’t snag tickets online? Walk-up seating might save you. Most Tuesday through Sunday shows hold 10 to 12 seats for walk-ups. Monday’s 9:00 PM Blues show typically offers 20 to 30 walk-up seats. Arrive 2 to 3 hours early because lines grow fast.

There’s a USD 15.00 per person food and drink minimum. The 6:00 PM Monday open mic skips this requirement.

Bluebird Cafe Famous Alumni

Taylor Swift performed here at 14 years old on November 4, 2004. Scott Borchetta sat in the audience and subsequently signed her as the first artist to Big Machine Records.

Garth Brooks filled in for another artist during a 1987 showcase. Lynn Shults from Capitol Records caught his performance and offered him a deal the next day. Garth later said, “The Bluebird is the beginning and the mecca”.

Other legends include Vince Gill, Keith Urban, Dierks Bentley, and Kathy Mattea.

Bluebird Cafe Show Format

Most shows use the “in the round” format. Three or four songwriters sit in the center of the room facing each other. They trade songs and share stories behind the music. Shows run approximately 90 minutes.

The “Shhh policy” creates a listening room atmosphere. Talking stays minimal during performances so everyone can focus on the songwriters.

Google Maps | The Bluebird Cafe |

Stroll Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

This 19-acre park sits between the State Capitol and the Tennessee State Museum. Dedicated on June 1, 1996, it functions as an outdoor museum of Tennessee’s story. You won’t find anything else quite like it among things to do in Nashville.

Bicentennial Mall Tennessee History Displays

The Tennessee Map Plaza stretches 200 by 50 feet in polished green granite. Every city, county, river, and highway appears on this massive map. You can walk from Memphis to Knoxville in seconds.

Just north, 31 geyser-like fountains represent Tennessee’s major rivers and waterways. Kids love running through these during the summer. At night, color-changing lights transform the whole display.

The Pathway of History runs 1,400 feet along the western edge. Granite walls detail significant events from Tennessee’s founding through the bicentennial. Notice how the wall breaks apart during the Civil War years (1861-1865). This symbolizes how the state split during that period.

On the eastern side, the Walkway of the Counties features markers for all 95 counties. Each county buried a time capsule underneath, set to open on Tennessee’s tricentennial in 2096.

Bicentennial Mall Amphitheater

The 2,200-seat amphitheater mirrors the ancient Greek theater at Epidaurus. It sits recessed below ground level, so it doesn’t interrupt sight lines across the park. Everything from weddings to Nashville Symphony performances happens here.

Bicentennial Mall Walking Trails

A 0.9-mile trail loops through the entire park. Free self-guided tour maps are available at the visitor center. The trail even connects to Nashville’s Greenway system along 6th Avenue.

Google Maps | Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park |

Top Attractions in Nashville You Shouldn’t Miss

Check out Nashville’s top spots. You’ll find famous music venues. There are also cultural landmarks and lively neighborhoods. Nashville’s tourist attractions are great for both first-time visitors and returning travelers.

If you’re traveling on a budget, there are also many free things to do in Nashville, including enjoying live street music on Broadway, visiting public parks, and exploring local markets.

Tips for Visiting Nashville in 2026

• Plan weekday mornings for photo ops to avoid crowds.
• Book iconic music shows (Bluebird, Grand Ole Opry) well in advance.
• Use rideshare apps for downtown convenience.
• Mix historic tours with free outdoor activities like Centennial Park.
• Sample both local and international cuisine across neighborhoods.

Conclusion

Nashville offers way more than honky-tonks and hot chicken. I’ve shown you everything from presidential history at The Hermitage to Instagram-worthy murals in The Gulch. You can catch tomorrow’s stars at the Bluebird Cafe or walk through free world-class museums.

Point often overlooked: you don’t need a massive budget to enjoy this city. Free live music fills the streets. The Tennessee State Museum costs nothing. The Farmers Market lets you sample local flavors without breaking the bank.

Start with the neighborhoods that match your vibe. Music lovers should hit RCA Studio B. Foodies will love 12 South. Basically, Nashville rewards curious explorers who venture beyond Broadway. From iconic landmarks to local favorites, these are truly the best things to do in Nashville for every traveler.

If your journey continues toward the East Coast, don’t miss out on the nation’s capital. From historic monuments to hidden local gems, check out our full guide on the best things to do in Washington, D.C., to plan your perfect 2026 stopover.

FAQs

Q1. What are the best things to do in Nashville TN?

The best things to do in Nashville TN, include visiting Broadway, exploring the Country Music Hall of Fame, and enjoying live performances at the Grand Ole Opry.

Q2. What events and concerts are lined up in Nashville for 2026?

Nashville’s 2026 event schedule includes big concerts at both Bridgestone Arena and the Ryman Auditorium. On April 8th, Fest will bring The Killers, T-Pain, and Janelle Monae to Bridgestone Arena. The next day, Kevin James will perform at the Ryman Auditorium, with Breland & Friends taking the stage there on April 8th as well. Many more events are planned at both venues throughout the year.

Q3. Where do Nashville locals spend their time away from tourists?

Residents visit places like Nashville Barrel Co. to enjoy whiskey, Baam Burger or Roberta’s Pizza to grab a casual meal, and Alley Taps and Fleet Street Pub to sip on drinks. The 12 South area has unique boutiques to shop at and plenty of local restaurants to check out. The Nashville Farmers Market is a great spot to get fresh produce or taste food from different stalls. Standard Proof Whiskey Co., The Ariston Cigar Lounge, and The Cellar Bar are other well-loved spots in the area.

Q4. How much does it cost to visit The Hermitage?

Adults can visit Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage for $29.95. Seniors aged 62 and older and military members pay $26.95. Kids aged 5 to 12 can enter for $19.95, and children aged 4 or younger get in free. A Family Pass, which covers two adults and two kids, costs a total of $93.80. The ticket gives access to a guided tour of the mansion, museum exhibits, the grounds, and an audio tour.

Q5. What are some of the top outdoor spots to visit in Nashville?

Radnor Lake State Park has quiet trails, forested paths, and beautiful scenery just south of Nashville. It’s a great spot to see animals or enjoy fall colors. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park highlights Tennessee’s history. It features 19 acres of open-air exhibits, fountains, and a 0.9-mile walking path. The Gulch and 12 South neighborhoods are ideal places to stroll, featuring murals, unique stores, and spots to eat outside.

Q6. What are the top attractions in Nashville?

The top Nashville attractions include the Grand Ole Opry, The Gulch, Centennial Park, and the Johnny Cash Museum.

Q7. What is Nashville famous for?

Nashville is known for its lively music scene, especially country music. It also boasts vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and historic landmarks.

Q8. Are there free things to do in Nashville?

Yes, there are many free things to do in Nashville, such as walking along Broadway, visiting public parks, and enjoying live street performances.

Q9. What to do in Nashville for first-time visitors?

First-time visitors should explore Broadway. They can visit major museums and check out popular spots in Nashville, like The Gulch and Music Row.

Q10. How many days are enough for Nashville?

A 2–3 day trip is enough to explore the main things to do in Nashville, including attractions, food spots, and live music venues.