Nashville is more than just country music. Known as Music City, this Tennessee capital blends live performances, Southern food, historic landmarks, creative neighbourhoods, and a welcoming atmosphere that keeps visitors coming back. If you are planning a trip and searching for the Best Things to Do in Nashville, you will find a city that balances tradition with modern energy.
The Best Things to Do in Nashville include legendary music venues, world-class museums, rooftop bars, scenic parks, and vibrant districts filled with personality. You can spend the morning exploring music history, the afternoon sampling hot chicken, and the evening listening to live bands on Broadway.
This complete guide to the Best Things to Do in Nashville is structured clearly to help you plan with ease. Whether you are visiting for a weekend getaway, a bachelorette party, or a family holiday, these top attractions cover culture, entertainment, and relaxation.
Why Visit Nashville?
Before exploring the Best Things to Do in Nashville, here are a few reasons why the city stands out:
- Live music at nearly every corner
- Strong country and rock heritage
- Excellent Southern cuisine
- Walkable downtown area
- Historic landmarks and parks
- Friendly and energetic atmosphere
These qualities make the Best Things to Do in Nashville appealing to couples, groups, and solo travellers.
1. Grand Ole Opry
The Grand Ole Opry is one of the most iconic Best Things to Do in Nashville. This legendary stage has hosted country music’s biggest stars since 1925.
Visitors can:
- Attend a live radio show
- Take a backstage tour
- Learn about country music legends
It remains a central symbol of Nashville’s music heritage.
2. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is one of the most essential Best Things to Do in Nashville for music fans. Located in downtown Nashville, this large and thoughtfully designed museum tells the story of country music from its rural roots to its global influence.
Inside, visitors can explore:
- Historic stage costumes and instruments
- Handwritten song lyrics
- Interactive recording exhibits
- Rotating special exhibitions
The museum’s Hall of Fame Rotunda honours legendary artists who shaped the genre. Audio stations throughout the galleries allow you to hear classic recordings while learning about the artists behind them.
Including the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in your Best Things to Do in Nashville itinerary gives you a deep appreciation for the city’s musical identity and the artists who built its reputation.
3. Broadway Nashville
Broadway is the energetic centre of many Best Things to Do in Nashville. This lively downtown strip is packed with honky-tonk bars, rooftop venues, and live music stages that run from afternoon until late at night.
Visitors can expect:
- Continuous live country and rock performances
- Neon-lit storefronts
- Rooftop bars with skyline views
- Street performers and bustling crowds
Most venues offer free entry, making it easy to move from one stage to another. The atmosphere is casual, social, and full of music at every turn.
Broadway stands out among the Best Things to Do in Nashville because it captures the city’s lively spirit and offers a true Music City experience in one walkable district.
4. Ryman Auditorium
Ryman Auditorium is one of the most historic and respected Best Things to Do in Nashville. Originally built as a church in 1892, it later became the original home of the Grand Ole Opry and earned the nickname “Mother Church of Country Music.”
The venue’s wooden pew seating and exceptional acoustics create an intimate concert experience. Guided tours allow visitors to stand on the same stage where countless music legends have performed.
Highlights include:
- Backstage tours
- Historical exhibits
- Live concerts across multiple genres
- Photo opportunities on stage
Ryman Auditorium ranks high among the Best Things to Do in Nashville because it connects visitors directly to the roots of American music in a venue that still hosts world-class performances today.
5. The Parthenon Nashville
The Parthenon is one of the most unexpected Best Things to Do in Nashville. Located in Centennial Park, this full-scale replica of the original Greek Parthenon was built for Tennessee’s 1897 Centennial Exposition and has become one of the city’s most photographed landmarks.
Inside, visitors will find:
- A massive 42-foot statue of Athena
- Art galleries featuring American painters
- Informational exhibits about classical architecture
The structure reflects Nashville’s nickname, “The Athens of the South,” which honours the city’s long-standing focus on education and culture. Walking around the exterior provides excellent photo opportunities, especially on sunny days when the reflection appears in the nearby lake.
Including The Parthenon in your Best Things to Do in Nashville itinerary adds a unique architectural highlight that contrasts beautifully with the city’s music scene.
6. Centennial Park Nashville
Centennial Park is one of the most relaxing Best Things to Do in Nashville. Spanning more than 130 acres, this central green space offers walking paths, open lawns, and scenic picnic spots.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Jogging or cycling along paved trails
- Relaxing by the lake
- Seasonal festivals and events
- Easy access to The Parthenon
The park provides a refreshing break from downtown crowds and live music venues. It is popular with both locals and visitors who want outdoor space without leaving the city.
Centennial Park stands out among the Best Things to Do in Nashville because it balances culture and nature in one convenient location.
7. Johnny Cash Museum
The Johnny Cash Museum is one of the most personal and memorable Best Things to Do in Nashville. Located near Broadway, this museum is dedicated to the life and career of the legendary singer-songwriter.
Inside, visitors can explore:
- Original stage costumes
- Handwritten letters and lyrics
- Rare photographs
- Personal artefacts and awards
Interactive displays tell the story of Johnny Cash’s rise from humble beginnings to international fame. The museum also highlights his relationship with June Carter Cash and his influence on multiple music genres.
The Johnny Cash Museum ranks high among the Best Things to Do in Nashville because it offers an intimate look at one of America’s most iconic musicians while preserving his legacy in the heart of Music City.
8. Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery
Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery is one of the most historically rich Best Things to Do in Nashville. This preserved 19th-century estate was once a thoroughbred horse farm and remains an important landmark in Tennessee history.
Guided tours allow visitors to explore:
- The grand Greek Revival mansion
- Original outbuildings and grounds
- Exhibits about the estate’s history
- On-site winery tastings
The tour also addresses the broader history of the property, including the lives of enslaved people who lived and worked there. Walking the landscaped grounds gives you a sense of how large and influential the estate once was.
Belle Meade stands out among the Best Things to Do in Nashville because it combines architectural beauty, regional history, and wine tasting in one engaging experience.
9. Music Row
Music Row is one of the most influential areas on the list of Best Things to Do in Nashville. This district has long been the centre of Nashville’s recording industry and is home to record labels, publishing houses, and historic studios.
While it may appear quiet at first glance, many hit songs have been recorded behind these modest buildings. Studio B, one of the most famous recording studios in the country, hosted legends such as Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton.
Visitors can:
- Take guided studio tours
- Walk past record label offices
- Learn about Nashville’s music business history
Music Row ranks high among the Best Things to Do in Nashville because it offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Music City became a global entertainment hub.
10. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is one of the most elegant and scenic Best Things to Do in Nashville. Located on a historic 55-acre property, this former family estate now serves as a botanical garden and art museum.
Visitors can explore:
- The mansion’s art galleries
- Japanese and formal gardens
- Seasonal flower displays
- Outdoor sculpture exhibitions
The gardens change throughout the year, offering tulips in spring, vibrant greenery in summer, and festive lights during winter events. The peaceful setting makes it ideal for a slower afternoon away from busy music venues.
Cheekwood stands out among the Best Things to Do in Nashville because it blends fine art, landscape design, and quiet relaxation in one beautiful setting.
11. 12South Nashville
12South is one of the most stylish and walkable Best Things to Do in Nashville. This charming neighbourhood blends independent boutiques, trendy cafés, and colourful murals that have become popular photo spots.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Local fashion and gift shops
- Artisan coffee houses
- Southern brunch spots
- Ice cream and dessert bars
The relaxed pace makes it ideal for a morning or afternoon stroll. Murals such as the “I Believe in Nashville” wall add to the neighbourhood’s creative identity. It is also a favourite spot for both locals and visitors seeking a quieter alternative to Broadway’s busy energy.
12South stands out among the Best Things to Do in Nashville because it combines shopping, dining, and social atmosphere in a compact and welcoming area.
12. The Gulch Nashville
The Gulch is one of the most modern and upscale Best Things to Do in Nashville. Located between downtown and Music Row, this revitalised district features high-rise buildings, rooftop bars, and contemporary restaurants.
Visitors can experience:
- Trendy dining concepts
- Boutique hotels
- Street art murals
- Rooftop nightlife venues
The area has a polished feel while still reflecting Nashville’s musical identity. It is especially lively in the evening when rooftop patios fill with guests enjoying skyline views.
The Gulch ranks high among the Best Things to Do in Nashville because it offers a sleek and social environment that complements the city’s historic charm.
13. Andrew Jackson's Hermitage
Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage is one of the most historically significant Best Things to Do in Nashville. This preserved estate was the home of Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the United States.
Visitors can explore:
- The restored mansion
- The surrounding gardens
- Jackson’s tomb
- Exhibits about early American politics
Guided tours provide context about Jackson’s life, presidency, and the broader history of the period. The property also acknowledges the role of enslaved individuals who lived and worked there.
Including Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage in your Best Things to Do in Nashville itinerary offers insight into American history beyond the city’s musical identity.
14. Nashville Zoo
The Nashville Zoo is one of the most family-friendly Best Things to Do in Nashville. Located on a spacious property in Grassmere, the zoo combines wildlife exhibits with open walking paths and interactive attractions.
Visitors can see:
- African elephants and giraffes
- Big cats and primates
- Reptile houses and bird habitats
- A large adventure playground for children
The zoo is well designed with shaded areas and clearly marked trails, making it comfortable to explore throughout the day. Educational programmes and animal encounters add extra value for families travelling with children.
Including the Nashville Zoo in your Best Things to Do in Nashville itinerary offers a balanced day of outdoor activity, wildlife viewing, and hands-on learning.
15. Cumberland River Cruise Nashville
A Cumberland River Cruise is one of the most relaxing Best Things to Do in Nashville. These scenic boat tours travel along the Cumberland River, offering a peaceful way to view the city skyline and waterfront landmarks.
Passengers can enjoy:
- Downtown skyline views
- Sunset cruises with live music
- Dinner cruise options
- Informative commentary about Nashville’s history
The slow pace of the cruise creates a calm contrast to Broadway’s lively atmosphere. It is especially popular for couples and groups celebrating special occasions.
Adding a Cumberland River Cruise to your Best Things to Do in Nashville plan provides a scenic and memorable way to experience Music City from the water.
Must Read:
Quick Planning Table
| Attraction | Best For | Time Needed | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Ole Opry | Live Music | Evening | Opryland |
| Broadway | Nightlife | Evening | Downtown |
| Country Music Hall of Fame | Music History | 2–3 Hours | Downtown |
| The Parthenon | History & Photos | 1 Hour | Centennial Park |
| Cheekwood Estate | Gardens & Art | 2–3 Hours | Belle Meade |
Final Thoughts:
The Best Things to Do in Nashville combine legendary music venues, Southern hospitality, creative neighbourhoods, and scenic green spaces. You can listen to live country bands in the evening, walk through beautiful gardens during the day, and explore deep musical heritage at world-class museums.
Whether you are visiting for the music, food, or culture, this guide to the Best Things to Do in Nashville provides a complete foundation for an exciting and memorable stay in Music City.
