Nashville, Tennessee: Honky Tonks, Hot Chicken & Music City Magic
Nashville, Tennessee gives you an easy mix of live music, history, food, and walkable neighborhoods—that’s why so many people end up building a trip around the Best Things To Do in Nashville, Tennessee. If you’re looking for a plan, start with the city’s signature music attractions, then mix in a few local districts, some good meals, and a little time outdoors.
The best Nashville trip combines the famous spots on Broadway with quieter places where you catch real songwriters, learn the city’s story, and enjoy some outdoor time.
You can see a lot in a weekend if you group your plans by area and time of day. Music City makes that kind of planning easy, since a bunch of the top spots sit close together.
Key Takeaways
- Start with Nashville’s music landmarks.
- Mix busy attractions with neighborhood stops.
- Leave time for parks, food, and live music.
Top Places to Stay in Nashville, TN
| Hotel | Reviews |
|---|---|
| Drury Plaza Hotel Nashville Downtown 300 Korean Veterans Boulevard, Nashville, TN 37201, United States of America | 3,586 |
| Cambria Hotel Nashville Airport 44 Rachel Drive, Nashville, 37214, United States of America | 1,178 |
| Hyatt Centric Downtown Nashville 210 Molloy St, Nashville, 37201, United States of America | 926 |
| Cambria Hotel Nashville Downtown 118 8th Avenue South, Nashville, 37203, United States of America | 1,624 |
| Graduate Nashville 101 20th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37203, United States of America | 1,406 |
| Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Nashville MetroCenter Downtown, an IHG Hotel 301 Clay Street, Nashville, 37208, United States of America | 1,969 |
| Grand Hyatt Nashville 1000 BROADWAY, Nashville, TN 37203, United States of America | 1,603 |
| Margaritaville Hotel Nashville 425 5th Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37203, United States of America | 1,248 |
| Drury Inn & Suites Nashville Airport 555 Donelson Pike, Nashville, TN 37214-3738, United States of America | 975 |
| Sonesta Nashville Airport 600 Marriott Drive, Nashville, TN 37214, United States of America | 1,825 |
| Homewood Suites by Hilton Nashville Downtown 706 Church Street, Nashville, TN 37203, United States of America | 1,731 |
| SpringHill Suites by Marriott Nashville Downtown/Convention Center 410 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, 37203, United States of America | 1,443 |
| Renaissance Nashville Hotel 611 Commerce Street, Nashville, TN 37203, United States of America | 1,218 |
| Hyatt House Nashville Airport 14 Century Blvd, Nashville, Nashville, United States of America | 1,074 |
| Sentral SoBro 516 Lea Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203, United States of America | 990 |
| Residence Inn by Marriott Nashville Downtown/Convention Center 410 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, 37203, United States of America | 907 |
| Holiday Inn Express Nashville-Opryland, an IHG Hotel 2461 McGavock Pike, Nashville, TN 37214, United States of America | 701 |
| Dream Nashville 210 4th Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37219, United States of America | 1,944 |
| Hyatt House Nashville at Vanderbilt 2100 Hayes Street, Nashville, 37203, United States of America | 1,792 |
| Omni Nashville Hotel 250 Rep. John Lewis Way South, Nashville, TN 37203, United States of America | 1,542 |
| Placemakr Music Row 1600 McGavock Street, Nashville, TN 37203, United States of America | 865 |
| Virgin Hotels Nashville 1 Music Square West, Nashville, TN 37203, United States of America | 703 |
| Sonesta Select Nashville Airport Suites 1100 Airport Center Drive, Nashville, TN 37214, United States of America | 3,268 |
| Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center 2800 Opryland Drive, Nashville, TN 37214, United States of America | 2,424 |
| Hyatt Place Nashville Downtown 301 3rd Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37201, United States of America | 1,985 |
| Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Nashville, TN 210 Rudy Circle, Nashville, TN 37214, United States of America | 1,107 |
| avid hotels - Nashville Airport, an IHG Hotel 40 Rachel Drive, Nashville, 37214, United States of America | 947 |
| Embassy Suites Nashville - at Vanderbilt 1811 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203, United States of America | 861 |
| Hyatt House Nashville Downtown-Convention Center 535 REP JOHN LEWIS WAY S, Nashville, TN 37203, United States of America | 1,748 |
| Holiday Inn Nashville Vanderbilt, an IHG Hotel 2613 West End Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203, United States of America | 1,360 |
| AC Hotel Nashville Downtown 410 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, 37203, United States of America | 759 |
| La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Nashville Downtown Stadium 315 Interstate Drive , Nashville, 37213, United States of America | 2,475 |
| Best Western PLUS Downtown/Music Row 1407 Division Street, Nashville, TN 37203, United States of America | 2,190 |
| Moxy Nashville Downtown 110 3rd Avenue South, Nashville, 37201, United States of America | 996 |
| Home2 Suites by Hilton Nashville Vanderbilt, TN 1800 Division Street, Nashville, TN 37203, United States of America | 979 |
| Sheraton Music City Nashville Airport 777 McGavock Pike, Nashville, TN 37214, United States of America | 922 |
| Comfort Inn Nashville – Opryland Area 2460 Music Valley Drive, Nashville, 37214, United States of America | 1,487 |
| Best Western Suites near Opryland 201 Music City Circle, Nashville, TN 37214, United States of America | 1,413 |
| Hutton Hotel 1808 West End Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203, United States of America | 942 |
| Best Western Plus Nashville Airport Hotel - BNA 911 Airport Center Drive, Nashville, TN 37214, United States of America | 864 |
| Hampton Inn Nashville Airport Century Place, TN 1 Century Blvd, Nashville, TN 37214, United States of America | 830 |
| Hilton Garden Inn Nashville Downtown/Convention Center 305 Korean Veterans Boulevard, Nashville, TN 37201, United States of America | 800 |
| Club Hotel Nashville Inn & Suites 2435 Atrium Way, Nashville, TN 37214, United States of America | 8,446 |
| Clarion Hotel Downtown Nashville - Stadium 211 North 1st Street, Nashville, TN 37213, United States of America | 2,211 |
| Hampton Inn & Suites Nashville-Downtown 310 4th Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37201, United States of America | 1,698 |
| Embassy Suites by Hilton Nashville Airport 10 Century Boulevard, Nashville, TN 37214, United States of America | 1,117 |
| Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Nashville Downtown/The Gulch 901 Division Street, Nashville, TN 37203, United States of America | 758 |
| Hilton Nashville Airport 2200 Elm Hill Pike, Nashville, TN 37214, United States of America | 912 |
| Sheraton Grand Nashville Downtown 623 Union Street, Nashville, TN 37219, United States of America | 786 |
Start With Nashville’s Signature Must-Do Experiences
Nashville’s biggest names should be right at the top of your list. These are the places that really give you that first “oh, I’m in Nashville” feeling—legendary stages, bright lights on Broadway, and city views around downtown.
If your stay is short, just pick a few core experiences and try to book tickets in advance. The most popular stops can get crowded, especially on weekends.
See A Show At The Grand Ole Opry
The Grand Ole Opry is one of America’s most famous live music venues, and walking in for a show still feels special. U.S. News Travel lists it as a top Nashville experience because it connects you right to the city’s country music roots.
If you can, go for a night show and show up early enough to wander around Opryland. The nearby Gaylord Opryland Resort is an easy detour if you want a meal or a little break from downtown.
Tour The Ryman Auditorium
The Ryman Auditorium gives you a more intimate music experience than the Opry. It’s close to downtown, and the history hits you as soon as you walk in.
A guided tour is great if you want the backstory, but catching a live concert is the best way to hear the famous acoustics. Plus, you’re just a short walk from Broadway and the Nashville skyline.
Visit The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is where you start to see why Nashville became Music City. You’ll find exhibits, artifacts, and artist stories—no need to rush.
If you want, add on Historic RCA Studio B for a look at the city’s recording history. The museum also ties the older country music story to the modern honky-tonk scene outside.
Walk Lower Broadway And Honky Tonk Highway
Lower Broadway is classic Nashville—live music pouring out of honky tonks all day and night. It’s busy, loud, and honestly, pretty fun if you’re ready for it.
Just walking from bar to bar gives you a real feel for the city. The stretch near Bridgestone Arena gets especially lively before and after events. Bring some cash for tips, and don’t forget a neon-lit photo or two.
Explore The Johnny Cash Museum
The Johnny Cash Museum is a smart pick if you want a focused look at one of Nashville’s legends. It’s compact, easy to fit into a downtown day, and a nice change of pace after Broadway.
Pair it with the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum for a solid block of music history. If smaller museums are your thing, this one’s manageable in less than an hour.
Experience Nashville’s Live Music Beyond Broadway
Nashville’s music scene goes way beyond the honky-tonk strip. Some of the best nights happen in smaller rooms where songwriters, local bands, and longtime fans hang out together.
These spots usually feel more personal than Broadway and let you hear all sorts of styles—country, Americana, gospel, soul, indie, you name it. https://www.youtube.com/embed/v6sd7pm3cKo
Catch Songwriter Sessions At Intimate Venues
Songwriter sessions are one of the coolest ways to hear how songs come together in Nashville. Venues usually keep things quiet so you can actually listen to the lyrics and stories.
Check schedules before your trip—shows might only happen on certain nights. If you’re after a more laid-back evening than Broadway, this is the move.
Visit Music Row And Historic RCA Studio B
Music Row is still central to the city’s music story. Historic RCA Studio B stands out, especially if you like seeing where famous recordings happened.
Visiting here feels more focused than doing a big attraction—that’s part of the appeal. You get a clearer sense of how Nashville became a recording hub.
Listen In At The Bluebird Cafe And The Listening Room
The Bluebird Cafe and The Listening Room are two favorites for catching singer-songwriters up close. Seats are limited, so you’ll need to plan ahead.
These are the places to go if you want to actually listen, not party. You’ll probably remember the songs more than the scene.
Plan Around Major Music Events And Festivals
If your dates are flexible, look for big events like CMA Fest or special programming at places like Wildhorse Saloon. These can totally change the city’s vibe—more stages, more energy.
Hatch Show Print is a fun stop if you’re into concert posters or print shop craft. NMAAM, the National Museum of African American Music, fits well if you’re building a music-focused trip.
Explore Top Museums, History, And Cultural Attractions
Nashville’s cultural stops help balance out your trip. They’re perfect if you need a break from live music or you’re with folks who love art, history, or cool buildings.
A lot of these spots are in or near downtown, so you can easily fit them in with lunch or a neighborhood stroll.
See Art At The Frist Art Museum
The Frist Art Museum is a good change of pace from the music scene. The building’s gorgeous, and rotating exhibits keep things interesting.
If you’ve got kids or a mixed-age group, Martin ArtQuest Gallery adds an interactive stop. It’s an easy way to keep everyone engaged without over-planning.
Learn Tennessee History Near The Capitol
The Tennessee State Museum and Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park make a good pair if you want state history and open space in one outing. You’ll also spot the Tennessee State Capitol nearby.
This part of downtown is practical for first-timers—it’s close to other big attractions and gives you a broader look at Nashville.
Visit NMAAM And Other Standout Museums
The National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) is one of Nashville’s most meaningful newer museums. It shows how Black artists shaped American music across genres.
U.S. News Travel points out that the exhibits trace influence through jazz, blues, gospel, R&B, and more. It’s a strong complement to the city’s country music landmarks.
Add Historic Mansions And Heritage Sites
If you’re into architecture or old estates, Belmont Mansion and Belle Meade Historic Site are both worth checking out. Belle Meade Plantation still pops up in a lot of trip plans, especially for history buffs.
For a little local flavor, grab a Goo Goo Cluster or swing by Goo Goo Chocolate Co. They’re easy add-ons after a museum or lunch stop.
See The Best Neighborhoods And Local Hangouts
Once you’ve done the big sights, head into Nashville’s neighborhoods. This is where the city feels more local—good coffee, shopping, casual dinners, and spots where people actually hang out.
Each area has its own vibe. Some neighborhoods are polished and trendy, others more creative or laid-back.
Spend Time In The Gulch And 12 South
The Gulch is a solid pick if you like walkable streets, design shops, and easy dining. It’s polished and perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
12 South is just as popular, with boutiques, cafes, and plenty of photo ops. If you want a simple neighborhood stroll, you’ll like it here.
Browse East Nashville’s Shops And Cafes
East Nashville feels more creative and local. You can browse small shops, settle into a cafe, and keep things slower than downtown.
It’s a good area if you want a break from the busiest tourist spots. Works well for an afternoon with no set schedule.
Check Out Green Hills And The Bluebird Area
Green Hills is handy for shopping and dinner, and it’s close to The Bluebird Cafe. That makes it a nice combo if you want to eat well and catch live music later.
You can keep this part of the trip simple and still see a different side of Nashville. It’s especially nice if you’ve got a longer weekend.
Discover Wedgewood-Houston And Marathon Village
Wedgewood-Houston has a warehouse-y, artsy vibe, while Marathon Village mixes shops and local businesses in a historic setting. Both are good if you want something less crowded.
For coffee or a drink, Pinewood Social, White Limozeen, and Greenhouse Bar are all local favorites. Parnassus Books is a must if you love indie bookstores.
Eat Your Way Through Music City
Food’s a huge part of Nashville, and honestly, it should be. You can work meals into your sightseeing since most of the best spots are near attractions or in popular neighborhoods.
There’s more than one signature dish here, so give yourself room to try a few. Mixing classics, sweets, and drinks tells a better story than just one big dinner.
Try Nashville Hot Chicken And Classic Southern Staples
Nashville hot chicken is the obvious must-try. It’s worth it. A fried bologna sandwich or other Southern staples round out your food list if you want a taste of local comfort food.
The Loveless Cafe is still a go-to for biscuits and that classic roadside feel. If you like simple, familiar dishes done right, this meal fits Nashville perfectly.
Grab Casual Favorites On Broadway And Beyond
Broadway isn’t just music—you can grab food between sets without leaving the action. Wildhorse Saloon is a well-known spot for a meal and live entertainment in one go.
Outside the main strip, look for easy brunch and lunch places in neighborhoods you’re already visiting. That keeps your day moving and avoids extra backtracking.
Visit Markets, Bakeries, And Sweet Stops
Nashville Farmers Market is a good spot for casual bites and a peek at a local hangout. It works well before or after downtown sightseeing.
For dessert, Five Daughters Bakery is famous for its 100-layer donut, and Goo Goo Chocolate Co is a natural stop for a local sweet treat. Easy add-ons when you need a snack break.
Sip Wine, Whiskey, And Rooftop Drinks
If you want a relaxed evening, add a drink stop instead of another bar crawl. Arrington Vineyards is a popular pick for a wine-country vibe near the city.
For whiskey or cocktails, Corsair Distillery is a solid choice, and downtown rooftop spots give you a great city view. White Limozeen, Pinewood Social, and Greenhouse Bar each offer a different kind of night out.
Get Outdoors, Find Family Fun, And Plan Your Stay
Nashville is easy to enjoy outside the main music district. Parks, gardens, greenways, and family attractions help balance a busy trip and give kids or less music-focused travelers more to do.
These stops are also great if you want free or low-cost options. A good outdoor plan can make your weekend feel less rushed.
Walk Parks, Gardens, And Scenic Viewpoints
Centennial Park is one of the handiest open spaces for a Nashville trip, especially if you want a calm break near the city. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens offers a more formal garden visit with a lot to see.
For active outdoor time, try John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge, Shelby Bottoms Greenway, Radnor Lake State Park, and the Warner Parks system (Edwin and Percy Warner Parks). Each one offers a different pace, from easy walks to longer nature time.
Choose Family-Friendly Attractions
The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere and Adventure Science Center are reliable picks if you’re traveling with kids. They work well when you want a break from music-heavy sightseeing.
Musicians Corner is another family-friendly outdoor option when events are on. It’s useful if you want live music without the late-night bar scene.
Add Sports And Seasonal Entertainment
If your dates line up, why not catch a game or event at Nissan Stadium, Bridgestone Arena, or First Horizon Park for a Nashville Sounds game? These spots bring some welcome variety to a short trip—especially at night.
Looking for something a little offbeat? Try visiting a thoroughbred horse farm instead of sticking to the usual downtown sights. Seasonal events sell out quickly, so it’s smart to check the schedule before you get here.
Decide Where To Stay In Nashville
When you’re figuring out where to stay, it really comes down to how you want to spend your time. Downtown and The Gulch put you close to Broadway, the Ryman Auditorium, and all the big attractions.
Green Hills gives you a quieter base that’s still near live music. East Nashville and Wedgewood-Houston feel more local—great if you want to skip the tourist crowds. And if you care about parking or easy highway access, staying just outside the main drag can save you some hassle (and maybe a few bucks).
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Nashville for first-time visitors?
Start with the Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman Auditorium, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and a walk down Broadway. That mix gives you a real taste of Nashville’s music history, live shows, and the downtown vibe.
What are the must-see attractions in Nashville if you only have one day?
With just one day, focus on the Ryman Auditorium, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Lower Broadway, and squeeze in a neighborhood meal. If you’ve got a little extra time, maybe add the Johnny Cash Museum or a quick stop at the Tennessee State Museum.
What are some fun and unique things to do in Nashville for couples?
Try a songwriter session at The Bluebird Cafe, grab drinks at White Limozeen or Pinewood Social, and take a stroll through Cheekwood Estate & Gardens. A live show at the Ryman makes for a pretty unforgettable night, too.
What are the best free things to do in Nashville?
Walk Lower Broadway, cross the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge, wander around Centennial Park, and check out Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. You can also just explore different neighborhoods—sometimes the best finds cost nothing but a cup of coffee.
What are the best things to do in Nashville with kids?
The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere, Adventure Science Center, Tennessee State Museum, and some outdoor time at Centennial Park are all solid picks. Got kids who like music? The Grand Ole Opry and Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum are worth a shot, too.
What are the best things to do in Nashville for young adults?
If you’re in your 20s or 30s, you’ll probably end up on Broadway at least once—everyone does, right? But honestly, East Nashville and The Gulch have a vibe that’s hard to beat. There’s always a new live music spot popping up off the main strip, and you can’t really go wrong with the food scene. Grab some rooftop drinks, maybe catch a late show at The Listening Room or, if you’re lucky, The Bluebird Cafe. That’s how you get a real taste of Nashville without just doing the tourist thing.