Choose from 30 Fun Things to Do in Nashville
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Centennial Park
All of America’s great cities have a fantastic urban park. New York’s Central Park, San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, and Nashville’s Centennial Park.
The lush green landscape provides a needed escape from the towering skyscrapers and bustling city life. The most notable, and possibly most out-of-place feature of the park is the Parthenon replica, built to scale. Commissioned for Nashville’s celebration of the nation’s 100th birthday, it also commemorates Nashville’s reputation as the “Athens of the South” because of its many universities and arts scene.
Don’t just admire this architectural feat from the outside, the builders took this replica project to its fullest extent. According to Ancient Greek history, the Parthenon was built to house an ivory and gold statue built by Phidias to honor the goddess. Its size can’t be described as anything but breath-taking, and it’s mind-blowing to think about this being built during the B.C. era.
In Nashville, Centennial Park also serves as a prime outdoor venue for all kinds of community events. From outdoor movie screenings in the bandstand, concerts, bike festivals, swing dancing Saturday nights, Americana arts showcases, and Shakespeare performances, there’s always something exciting going on. Joggers, volleyball players, and more take advantage of the facilities as well. Take an afternoon to feed the ducks in the lake, grab a sno-cone, and people watch at this picturesque urban park.
The lush green landscape provides a needed escape from the towering skyscrapers and bustling city life. The most notable, and possibly most out-of-place feature of the park is the Parthenon replica, built to scale. Commissioned for Nashville’s celebration of the nation’s 100th birthday, it also commemorates Nashville’s reputation as the “Athens of the South” because of its many universities and arts scene.
Don’t just admire this architectural feat from the outside, the builders took this replica project to its fullest extent. According to Ancient Greek history, the Parthenon was built to house an ivory and gold statue built by Phidias to honor the goddess. Its size can’t be described as anything but breath-taking, and it’s mind-blowing to think about this being built during the B.C. era.
In Nashville, Centennial Park also serves as a prime outdoor venue for all kinds of community events. From outdoor movie screenings in the bandstand, concerts, bike festivals, swing dancing Saturday nights, Americana arts showcases, and Shakespeare performances, there’s always something exciting going on. Joggers, volleyball players, and more take advantage of the facilities as well. Take an afternoon to feed the ducks in the lake, grab a sno-cone, and people watch at this picturesque urban park.
Address: Nashville, TN, USA
From $ 20
Hard Rock Caf e Nashville
Nashville is regarded as one of the best music cities in the United States, so it comes as no surprise there is a Hard Rock Café in town. Opened in 1994, the Hard Rock Café Nashville has become a beloved part of the city. It’s conveniently located downtown, near a number of other music related spots like the Johnny Cash Museum, George Jones Museum, and Schermerhorn Symphony Center.
The café underwent a renovation in 2009 that preserved the legacy of the original location, but made needed technological upgrades and enhancements. Today, the Hard Rock Café Nashville has nearly 13,000 square feet of space that includes a 378-seat restaurant, open-air terrace, the signature Hard Rock Shop, and an impressive state-of-the-art concert venue.
Like other Hard Rock Cafes around the world, the Hard Rock Café Nashville features music memorabilia on the walls. Be sure to tour the restaurant and see various guitars, platinum records, and more.
Practical Info
The Hard Rock Café Nashville features live band karaoke each Thursday along with many other live events, so be sure to check the online event calendar. The restaurant and bar are both open Sunday through Thursday from 10:30am until Midnight, and Friday and Saturday from 10:30am to 1am.
Address: 100 Broadway, Nashville, TN, USA 37201, USA
Hours: Sun-Thur 10:30am-Midnight, Fri-Sat 10:30am-1am
From $ 32
Belle Meade Plantation
At the Belle Meade Plantation, step back into the Old South and get a feel for what it might have been like to live on a plantation in the 1800s. Located just west of Nashville, Tennessee, the historic plantation mansion’s grounds now function as a museum. A visit to the plantation tells the story of the Old South from the slavery era to the Civil War.
The Basics
First bought in 1806 and continually expanded throughout the 19th century, the Belle Meade Plantation became world renowned as a first-rate thoroughbred horse-breeding establishment. Visiting the Greek Revival mansion reveals Belle Meade’s rich history and offers insight into the distinct Southern culture of the Antebellum and Reconstruction eras. Guided tours cover the mansion’s first and second floors, which are filled with original furnishings and period antiques. Book your visit online in advance to guarantee entry or visit as part of a southern plantations tour from Nashville.
Things to Know Before You Go
- All visits are by tour only, led by a costumed tour guide.
- Mansion tours are offered every 30 minutes throughout the day, with the last tour beginning at 4pm.
- The grounds and the first floor of the mansion are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Belle Meade Plantation is located about nine miles west of Nashville, about 15 to 20 minutes by car. The No. 5 bus runs from downtown Nashville to the plantation, stopping just a short walk from the grounds.
When to Get There
The Belle Meade Plantation is open year-round, but feels particularly festive when its halls are decked with Christmas decorations beginning in early November. If you do not purchase tickets online in advance, arrive first thing in the morning—on-site tickets are sold on a first come, first served basis.
Exploring the Belle Meade Plantation
Your ticket to Belle Meade Plantation includes access to the plantation’s gardens and other historic buildings, including a dairy, horse stable, log cabin, carriage house, and mausoleum. There is also a winery where you can enjoy a complimentary wine tasting before sitting down to dinner at the Harding House restaurant.
Address: 5025 Harding Pike, Belle Meade 37205, USA
Hours: Tours offered daily from 9am - 5pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 15
Fort Nashborough
Situated in Nashville’s Riverfront Park, Fort Nashborough was where James Robertson and his band of settlers founded the city back in 1780. While the original fort—built to defend the first families from Native American attacks—is gone, the site currently has a smaller replica of what the original might have looked like.
The Basics
A visit to Fort Nashborough uncovers one of Nashville’s earliest and most historically significant periods, giving insight into what life was like in this frontier outpost in Tennessee. The park is free and open for self-guided tours, and many guided city tours make a stop at the site, including historical walking tours and Nashville trolley tours, along with other popular points of interest like Ryman Auditorium, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Honky Tonk Row, and a full-scale replica of Athens’ Parthenon in Centennial Park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Fort Nashborough is a must-see for history buffs.
- Those interested in Native American history shouldn’t miss the interpretive plaza on the south end of the property that includes an 8-foot-tall (2.4-meter-tall) feather sculpture and information about the tribes that lived here in frontier days.
- Allow at least 30 minutes for your visit (or a bit longer if traveling with kids who might want to play in the park).
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
How to Get There
Fort Nashborough is located on the edge of Riverfront Park between Church and Commerce along the banks of the Cumberland River. It’s within easy walking distance of Downtown Nashville.
When to Get There
The fort grounds are open daily from 9am to 4pm. During the summer months, plan to visit first thing in the morning when temperatures are still relatively cool.
What’s Inside the Fort
While significantly smaller than the original, the recreation of the fort still includes about a half-dozen log cabins, each offering a different look into the lives of early settlers. One is outfitted as a typical bedroom, another as a kitchen, and yet another as a room where female settlers would weave.
Address: 170 1st Ave N, Nashville, Tennessee 37201, USA
Hours: Daily 9am - 4pm
From $ 22
Johnny Cash Museum
Despite its small size, the Johnny Cash Museum manages to hold one of the world’s largest collections of Johnny Cash artifacts. Bill Miller, one of Cash’s closest friends, gathered and cataloged the country music superstar’s memorabilia for decades, resulting in this popular Nashville attraction and Cash-fan pilgrimage site.
The Basics
Visitors to the Johnny Cash Museum can wander through halls lined with memories and artifacts spanning the singer’s life, from his upbringing in Arkansas through his impressive career—including his launch with Sun Records, performance highlights (such as his famous appearance at Folsom Prison), and television cameos. But what makes this museum truly special are the personal effects that only a close friend could collect—childhood report cards, military uniforms, and handwritten love letters to Cash’s wives, including June Carter. The Cash Museum features interactive exhibits, an extensive gift shop, films, and a café serving light fare.
Downtown Nashville tours, including the popular Nashville trolley tours, often include the Johnny Cash Museum as one of their stops, along with other music-related attractions such as the Ryman Auditorium, the Patsy Cline Museum, and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This museum is a must-see for Johnny Cash fans and music lovers visiting Nashville.
- There is no dedicated parking lot, but limited street parking is available on the neighboring city blocks.
- The Johnny Cash Museum is fully accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The museum is located in downtown Nashville, within easy walking distance of many other attractions. Nearby is the 4th Ave N & Broadway Ave SB bus station, accessible by bus numbers 15, 18, 27, 33, 34, 38, and 61.
When to Get There
The museum is open from 9am until 6pm daily except for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Johnny Cash’s Music
Known for his deep bass-baritone voice, Cash is one of the best-selling singer/songwriters of all time. Primarily known for country music, he spanned many genres, and actually had inductions into the Country Music, Rock and Roll, and Gospel Music Halls of Fame.
Address: 119 3rd Ave S, Nashville, TN, USA
Hours: Daily 9am - 6pm
Admission: Adults: $19.95 Youth: $15.95
From $ 39
Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum
From Elvis Presley to Dolly Parton, Nashville's stars have earned the city its title as “Music City,” and you can dive into that history and culture at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Learn about the best of this classic American music genre with historic video clips, recorded music, and a menu of live performances and public programs.
The Basics
A star Nashville attraction, the Country Music Hall of Fame is included on most Nashville sightseeing tours, including multi-attraction passes and bus tours. A guided tour of the museum is often combined with a visit to the Ryman Auditorium or other notable Nashville sites, such as the Johnny Cash Museum, the Tennessee State Capitol, or Schermerhorn Symphony Center. Book a ticket to explore independently or with an add-on audio guide, and pay homage to musicians Garth Brooks and Loretta Lynn before exploring a collection of country music history and memorabilia. Some Nashville music tours also visit the historic RCA Studio B—Elvis’s favorite spot to record—and Hatch Studio, one of the oldest working letterpress print shops in the US.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The ticket line can grow long during peak visiting hours; save time by purchasing tickets in advance.
- The museum offers two dining options and multiple retail spots for souvenirs.
- The museum and RCA Studio B are accessible by wheelchair. Tours for those with audio and visual impairments are available with two weeks’ notice.
- Plan to spend two to three hours exploring the museum.
How to Get There
The Country Music Hall of Fame is centrally located in downtown Nashville, within walking distance of most hotels. Take the free Music City Circuit bus line or opt for a narrated hop-on hop-off trolley. Drivers can park in a nearby paid parking lot.
When to Get There
The museum is open daily from 9am to 5pm, except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Come early in the morning for smaller crowds. Tickets are good for reentry on the date of your visit.
Architectural Keys at the Country Music Hall of Fame
Even if you don’t have time to tour the Country Music Hall of Fame, swing by to see the building’s exterior. The dark windows and white walls are designed to look like piano keys and make for a great photo op.
Address: 222 5th Avenue South, Nashville 37203-4206, USA
Hours: Open daily 9am - 5pm. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
Admission: Adults: US$25.95 - US$40.95, Youth (6-12): US$15.95 - US$30.95
From $ 18
Carnton
A grand historic house–turned–Civil War field hospital, Carnton is a must-see for history buffs visiting the Nashville area. The house, now a top area attraction, once served as the grounds of the Battle of Franklin, one of the deadliest battles of the Civil War.
The Basics
Carnton is only accessible with a tour guide, either on a classic 1-hour tour or an extended 90-minute tour. Tour tickets include access to the family cemetery, grounds, and gardens, so you can continue exploring on your own after the tour ends. For additional context, a visit to Carnton is often combined with other nearby attractions such as the Lotz House and the Carter House, either independently or as part of a guided, themed Civil War history tour from Nashville.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dress for the weather to fully enjoy the outdoor grounds.
- A number of specialty tours on niche Civil War topics are available.
- Only the first floor of the Carnton house is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Carnton is in Franklin, Tennessee, a 40-minute drive from downtown Nashville. There’s no public transit to Carnton, so your best bet is to rent a car or join a guided tour that includes roundtrip transportation from Nashville.
When to Get There
Carnton is open Monday through Saturday from 9am to 5pm and Sunday from 11am to 5pm. Because much of the attraction is outside, plan your visit for the most temperate part of the day.
Farm Field to Battlefield
Once home to Nashville Mayor Randal McGavock, Carnton was passed to McGavock’s son, John, and stayed in the family for many years, eventually becoming a top-producing farm in Williamson County. In 1864, Carnton became the site of the Battle of Franklin, where nearly 10,000 soldiers were killed, wounded, or captured—all in the span of five hours. Adjacent to Carnton, the McGavock Cemetery, which is free and open to the public, is the final resting place for nearly 1,500 Confederate soldiers.
Address: 1345 Eastern Flank Circle, Franklin, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 79
Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
When Nashville turned 200 it decided to throw a party—and to open a park. Since June, 1996, the 19-acre Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park has given locals and visitors a calm and scenic place to rest. The park boasts numerous features, like an impressive view of the Capitol building, erupting geyser fountains, an informative Civil War exhibit and a Greek amphitheater for live concerts.
Visitors can take an easy walk along the .9-mile paved Bicentennial Mall Trail, or stop at the nearby Nashville Farmers’ Market before picnicking on the well-kept lawns. The 200-fee wide granite map on the park’s southern end gives visitors a bird’s eye view of the state and at the park’s northern end, travelers can wander the short Path of Volunteers and the flora-lined Walkway of Counties.
Visitors can take an easy walk along the .9-mile paved Bicentennial Mall Trail, or stop at the nearby Nashville Farmers’ Market before picnicking on the well-kept lawns. The 200-fee wide granite map on the park’s southern end gives visitors a bird’s eye view of the state and at the park’s northern end, travelers can wander the short Path of Volunteers and the flora-lined Walkway of Counties.
Practical Info
The park is located northwest of the city’s Capitol building at 600 James Robertson Parkway between 6th and 7th Avenue North.
Address: 600 James Robertson Pkwy, Nashville, TN, USA
From $ 28
Music Row
No trip to Nashville is complete without a visit to Music Row. This is the home of the country music industry, with a slew of record labels, radio stations, and recording studios working side-by-side. There are also live venues on or near Music Row, to check out established artists as well as up-and-comers looking to break through.
The Basics
Music Row is packed with working businesses, as well as historic sites like RCA Studio B, which offers tours of the recording studio where scores of artists, such as Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, Dolly Parton, and Chet Atkins recorded hits. Many of the music company spaces and offices are in converted homes, maintaining the look and feel of old-school Nashville. Guided trolley and Segway tours of the city include stops within Music Row.
Things to Know Before You Go
- In addition to country music, Music Row is home to businesses that represent a number of music genres.
- RCA Studio B is open for public tours.
- The 40-foot-tall Musica statue by artist Alan LeQuire, located at the Music Row Roundabout, depicts nine dancing nude figures, which sometimes wear outfits for special occasions, such as Nashville Predator T-shirts on game day.
How to Get There
Located around 16th and 17th Avenues South (also known as Music Square East and West, respectively), Music Row is a 10-minute drive from the historic Ryman Auditorium, which is nearby many of the city’s famous honky-tonks. Music Row can be reached by taking the No. 3, 5, 7, and 25 buses from the Ryman. It’s also a 15-minute walk from Vanderbilt University.
When to Get There
Studio B tours depart hourly every day, from 10:30am to 2:30pm daily, from the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum; transportation is included. Neighborhood bar the Idle Hour is a favorite watering hole of industry veterans and hosts nightly entertainment. It’s open Sunday and Monday, 12pm to 12am, and Tuesday through Saturday, 12pm to 3am.
Nearby Belmont Mansion
History and Civil War buffs, as well as art lovers, will want to visit this must-see Nashville attraction that’s located on the campus of Belmont University, just on the outer edge of Music Row. The elaborate antebellum home is an Italianate villa that functions as a museum as well as a venue for special events. Guided tours are offered; the mansion is also a stop on the Old Town Trolley.
Address: Nashville, Tennessee, USA, USA
From $ 38
Lotz House Museum
In the late 1850s, a German immigrant named Johann Albert Lotz put the finishing touches on a house that he had built in Franklin, Tennessee. A skilled carpenter and piano maker, Lotz used his new home to showcase his work to potential clients. A few short years later, on Nov. 30, 1864, 20,000 Union soldiers fighting in the Civil War marched into Franklin, constructing barricades a mere 100 yards from Lotz's home. The Lotz family sought refuge from the battle in a neighbor's basement, and the ensuing battle raged for 17 hours, becoming the bloodiest day of the entire Civil War.
The Lotz family survived the deadly battle, but they were so scarred from the human wreckage that they relocated to California. Lotz's young daughter, Matilda, went on to become a renowned artist with works still today displayed in prominent venues across the country. The Lotz House was added to the National Historic Register in 1976, and today, the house is a converted museum, telling the story of the Battle of Franklin through the eyes of a family whose story is as compelling as they come.
Practical Info
Tours are offered Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. or by appointment. The last tour every day begins one hour before closing. For a more comprehensive view of the Battle of Franklin, visit the nearby historic Carnton Plantation, where the Lotz family retreated to the basement for safety, and the McGavock Confederate Cemetery.
Address: 1111 Columbia Avenue, Franklin 37064, USA
Hours: Tours are offered Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. or by appointment.
Admission: Adults $10, Seniors (65+) $9, Children ages 7–13 $5, Children 6 and under Free
From $ 10
Cumberland Park
The streets of Nashville are home to some of the best honky tonk bars in America. But there’s more to this city than country music and two step. Cumberland Park offers visitors 6.5 acres of outdoor fun along the picturesque riverfront.
Travelers with small children can make a day of this beautiful new park, which includes plenty of activities for the younger set. The Hollow offers up an interactive nature center, complete with a life-size maze. The Gorge’s climbing wall provides kids with an opportunity to scale walls and engage with peers. And the Explorer Trail winds through wide open spaces—a respite from the sounds of downtown Nashville.
Cumberland Park is known for attracting children and families, but a full calendar of events aimed at an older crowd means there’s something for everyone at this popular spot. Visitors can spend an afternoon enjoying the park on their own, or see it as part of a Nashville carriage ride, which hits up all the Nashville monuments, too.
Practical Info
Cumberland Park is located at 592 South First Street between the Shelby Street Pedestrian Bridge and the Korean War Veterans Memorial Bridge.
Address: 592 S 1st St., Nashville, Tennessee 37213, USA
Hours: Daily from dawn until 11pm
From $ 35
Carter House
This one-and-a-half story historic red brick house was built in 1830 and once served as the home to Fountain Branch Carter. And while it once served as the residence and farm of this iconic local, it later became the sights of a truly historic battle.
Visitors who make a stop at this popular destination will learn about the transformation of this historic home into a civil war headquarters in 1864, when 20,000 Confederates attacked. Tours are available for travelers who want to witness history come to life, and include an inside look at the plantation, its grounds and the houses that are stationed within its borders.
Practical Info
The Carter House is located at 1140 Columbia Avenue in Franklin, Tennessee. It is open daily from 9 am until 5 pm, and on Sundays from 11 am until 5 pm.Guided tours of this historic house are available daily. Although these cannot be scheduled in advance, the wait time is typically 30 minutes or less. Entrance is $15 for adults and $8 for children 6 to 12.
Address: 1140 Columbia Avenue, Franklin, Tennessee 37064, USA
Hours: Open daily from 9 am until 5 pm, and on Sundays from 11 am until 5 pm
Admission: Entrance is $15 for adults and $8 for children 6 to 12
From $ 79
Downtown Nashville
Music City’s lively downtown doesn’t disappoint. Nashville’s entertainment hub is home to a who’s who of restaurants, hotels, and cultural hot spots, including the Frist Art Museum, Country Music Hall of Fame, Ryman Auditorium, and the Tennessee Performing Arts Center. After dark, live music takes over the bars of Honky Tonk Highway.
The Basics
With so many attractions packed in, Downtown Nashville deserves a prominent spot on any itinerary in the city. While the neighborhood is easily explored on foot, you can also hop in a horse and carriage for a tour of attractions like the Johnny Cash Museum and Tennessee State Capitol. Night owls can experience the best of downtown aboard a BYOB open-air party bus as it cruises through Lower Broadway and Downtown Nashville.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Downtown Nashville is a must-visit for music buffs, night owls, and first-time visitors.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to do a fair amount of walking.
- Bring some cash for buying drinks and tipping at the downtown bars; it’s faster than paying by card.
- Some downtown venues charge a cover in the evenings, though most of the honky-tonks are free.
How to Get There
While Downtown Nashville is best experienced with a car, those who’d rather skip the rental can take the bus to Music City Central station or the commuter train to Riverfront Station to find themselves in the heart of the downtown action.
When to Get There
To get a feel for Downtown Nashville, plan to visit during the day to take in the cultural attractions and again at night to experience the famous nightlife. There’s live music pretty much every night of the week, but it’s a good idea to take a look at who’s playing beforehand and get tickets, if necessary.
Printer’s Alley
Printer’s Alley Historic District is located in Downtown Nashville, once the center of the city’s printing industry during the early 1900s; both The Tennessean and the Nashville Banner once had their offices here. By the 1940s, the alley was a hot spot for live music; clubs and saloons hosted acts such as Hank Williams, Jimi Hendrix, and The Supremes. It remains one of the best live music spots in a city known for its music.
Address: Nashville, Tennessee, USA, USA
From $ 30
Grand Ole Opry House & Museum
The Grand Ole Opry began as a radio broadcast in 1925 and is now a world-renowned stage show in Nashville, Tennessee, where hundreds of stars have begun their careers. It’s the longest-running radio show in the US, showcasing the genres of country, bluegrass, folk, comedy, and gospel both live and on the radio. Unlike a typical concert, the Grand Ole Opry presents six or more artists during each show, giving the audience a variety of great music to enjoy at one event. Superstars who have performed here include Patsy Cline, Blake Shelton, Willie Nelson, and Carrie Underwood.
The Basics
Taking in a show at the Opry house is a bucket-list item for not only fans of country music, but music lovers in general. A guided tour of the Opry may give you the opportunity to step on stage, into the famed wooden circle, as countless musicians have done for many years, while a backstage tour is a great way to hear stories about the music venue. You can take a peek inside the dressing rooms and get an exclusive look at other backstage areas.
Things to Know Before You Go
- FM Assistive Listening Devices are available to borrow during the shows.
- A combo tour of the Opry and Madame Tussauds Wax Museum is a popular way to visit two of Nashville's must-see attractions—the lifelike figures of greats such as Johnny Cash, Taylor Swift, and Reba McEntire will leave you guessing at the wax museum.
- You can also listen to the Opry live on the radio by streaming 650 AM WSM The Legend.
How to Get There
The Grand Ole Opry House and Opry Entertainment Complex are located just off Briley Parkway at 2804 Opryland Drive in Nashville, Tennessee. Most tours include transportation from your downtown Nashville hotel.
When to Get There
The days and hours of the Opry House and its ticketed shows vary. The Opry show is presented at the nearby Ryman Auditorium during the months of November, December, and January.
Address: 2802 Opryland Drive, Nashville 37214, USA
Hours: Tours usually available daily depending on Opry House commitments. Tours sometimes available immediately after shows
Admission: Tours - Adults: US$17.50, Junior (4-11yrs): US$12.50
From $ 22
Fontanel Mansion
The former home of Country Music Hall of Famer Barbara Mandrell, Fontanel mansion is a luxe log home in Nashville, Tennessee. The home, nestled in the woods and fronting a vast lawn, comprises 33,000 square feet (10,058 square meters) of living space including more than 20 rooms, 13 baths, five fireplaces, and an indoor shooting range.
The Basics
Once the gathering place for the Mandrell family, the mansion at Fontanel was named after the soft spot on a baby’s head and what Mandrell wanted the home to be: a comfortable place. The Mandrells lived here, in what is known to be the world’s largest log cabin home, until 2002, when Fontanel was sold to investors who turned the estate into an attraction open to the public.
Draws at Fontanel include mansion tours, which reveal the property’s luxury accompanied by country music and involve a high level of accessibility, as tour guides encourage visitors to sit on the furniture and get up close to the memorabilia. Beyond the mansion, nature lovers can explore the estate’s Trails and Conservation Greenway on foot, and those keen on adventure can get a thrill at the Adventureworks Zipline Forest. Prichard’s Distillery and the Natchez Hills Tasting Room serve up hand-crafted Tennessee whiskey and locally grown wines, and the Carl Black Chevy Woods Amphitheater, a 4,500-seat natural outdoor venue, hosts events throughout the year; attending one of these performances is another great way to experience the Fontanel property.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Trails and Conservation Greenway are free and open to the public during the day, but their use requires check-in upon arrival.
- Kids under 6 years old, as well as active duty military personnel, can tour the mansion free of charge.
- Café Fontanella offers Southern and Italian food with live music daily.
- Visitors can stay on the property by booking the room at the Inn at Fontanel.
- The mansion at Fontanel is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Fontanel mansion is in Nashville, off the Old Hickory Boulevard exit of I-24 West. Arriving by taxi, car service, or organized tour is the preferred transportation of most visitors.
When to Get There
Fontanel mansion tours are available daily, except when the estate is hosting special events such as weddings. It’s best to book ahead for summer, weekends, and holidays.
Country Music Memorabilia
In addition to family photos from the Mandrell family collection, Fontanel is filled with country music memorabilia from Kenny Chesney, Gretchen Wilson, the Eagles, Buck Owens, and other musicians. The current owners manage many contemporary musicians, and evidence of that deep involvement in Music City is on display for up-close viewing.
Address: 4225 White Creek Pike, Nashville, TN, USA
From $ 24
Jack Daniel's Distillery
Go behind the distilling scenes at the oldest registered distillery in the United States: Jack Daniel’s, founded in 1863 in Lynchburg, Tennessee. Learn the history behind the distillery that’s emblematic of Southern culture and find out how the legendary old No. 7 whiskey is made at the source.
The Basics
A visit to the Jack Daniel’s Distillery highlights Tennessee history and late settler culture. Visitors can choose from a number of guided tour options, from the Angel’s Share Distillery Tour with single-barrel whiskey tastings to a combo tour of the distillery and town of Lynchburg. Other tasting options include the classic tasting tour, which includes a flight of five whiskeys, and the Mr. Jack Toast in the Hollow Tour, a quick driving tour of Lynchburg followed by a whiskey toast. Those who aren’t interested in drinking can save money by taking the Dry County tour, which still provides information about the distillery’s history and production process sans alcohol. To avoid the need to find a designated driver, book a tour from Nashville that includes round-trip transportation to Lynchburg and free time in the city to purchase tickets and take a Jack Daniel’s tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This site is a must-see for Southern history buffs and fans of Tennessee whiskey.
- Don't forget to bring your official photo ID if you’re going on a tasting tour.
- The distillery doesn’t sell souvenirs, but other local shops are stocked.
- The Mr. Jack Toast in the Hollow Tour includes transportation around the distillery by motorcoach and is the best tour option for visitors with limited mobility. All other tours involve walking and stairs.
How to Get There
Because of its close proximity to Nashville (a 90-minute drive), the distillery is an easy and popular day-trip destination for visitors to Nashville. Make the drive yourself (be sure to plan for a designated driver), or book transportation in advance with a tour.
When to Get There
Tours operate daily between 9am and 4:30pm, with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. The distillery is most popular on the weekends (Friday through Sunday) and around major holidays. Tours fill quickly, so arrive early or ensure your spot by booking ahead.
Legendary Drinks
Legend has it that Jack Daniel started his distilled whiskey business at the age of 13 after his caretaker, a Lutheran minister, decided to devote his life to the ministry and left his distillery in Daniel's care. Daniel later accredited the whiskey’s success to the use of iron-free spring water—still used to this day.
Address: 182 Lynchburg Highway, Lynchburg 37352, USA
Hours: Tours offered daily, 9am - 4:30pm. Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
Admission: Free
From $ 89
Honky Tonk Central
Located on downtown Nashville’s famous Lower Broadway district, this live music destination attracts visitors in search of a true country experience. With three stories of performance space, down home food and stiff drinks, Honky Tonk Central is Nashville at its finest.
Live acts at this local institution typically play to a packed house, and travelers will find music to meet all tastes on each of Honky Tonk Central’s three sprawling levels. There’s room to dance at this top nightlife spot that guarantees a good time, and plenty of tables mean there’s a place to rest when visitors are done kicking up their heels.
Travelers can venture to Honky Tonk Central on their own for a quintessential Nashville evening, or purchase a popular Honky Tonk bar pass that includes skip the line fast-track access and vouchers for drinks at several of the city’s live music destinations.
Practical Info
Honky Tonk Central is located at 329 Broadway near the Raymond Auditorium.
Address: 329 Broadway, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
Hours: Daily 11am-3am
From $ 35
Frist Center for Visual Arts
Lavish cream and green marble floors and wall paneling, high ceilings with and cast iron doors surround guests with the art deco charm of the Nashville’s original post office completed in 1934. The historically significant building kept its original charm through a public/private partnership-driven revamp into the non-profit Frist Center for Visual Arts in 2001. The space now holds art exhibitions, interactive art workshops as well as a gift shop and café.
The Frist Center is a different kind of museum that does not have permanent collections. Instead, it sources a host of themed exhibits that roll through every six to eight weeks. Traveling national and international shows including classical pieces by Michelangelo and Monet have hung on Frist walls, as have collections of American folk art, modern photography, European classical works from the age of exploration and even an exhibit deconstructing Italian sports car design. The building’s 24,000 square feet of gallery space includes 30 interactive stations on the upper level for kids and families to get creative and make their own stop motion animation, printmaking, watercolor painting, etching, sculpture creation and more—some of these stations also rotate to match visiting exhibits. In the summer, Frist Fridays bring bands—also often tied to exhibit themes—to jam at the museum, and live music features year-round on Thursdays and Fridays in the Grand Lobby or café. Be sure to check what’s on before stopping by—it’s a new experience every time.
Practical Info
The Frist Center (919 Broadway) keeps daily hours from 10 a.m. Monday through Saturday and from 1 p.m. Sunday, closing most days at 5:30 p.m. with the exceptions of Thursdays and Fridays when it remains open until 9 p.m. Adult admission is $12, college students and seniors are $9, active military are $7 and all children under 18 are free. An audio tour for iPod is available for an additional $3; photography is not permitted in the gallery space. Informal guided tours run most weekdays at 1:30 p.m. from the Information Desk and architectural tours of the historic building run on Saturdays. Frist Center parking lots offer validation discounts for Frist Center visitors.
Address: 919 Broadway, Nashville, Tennessee 37203, USA
Hours: Mon–Wed, Sat 10am–5:30pm; Thurs–Fri 10am–9pm; Sun 1–5:30pm
Admission: Adults $12, Students & Seniors $9, Military $7, Under 18 free
From $ 39
General Jackson Showboat
Take in views of the spectacular Nashville skyline while rollin’ down the Cumberland River aboard the General Jackson Showboat. This Victorian-style riverboat includes a 2-story theater hosting a range of dinner shows, such as Taste of Tennessee and Music City Nights, as well as a Southern Sunday brunch.
The Basics
Visitors aboard the General Jackson Showboat have a choice of several performances, each served with a meal. The Taste of Tennessee day cruise features live music made famous in Nashville, while the evening Music City Nights recounts the story of Nashville’s famous nightlife through song, dance, and elaborate costumes.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The General Jackson Showboat is a must for families and couples.
- Book your lunch or dinner cruise before you go to avoid disappointment.
- A round-trip cruise from Downtown Nashville and back is about 14 miles (23 kilometers).
- Most of the General Jackson Showboat is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The departure point for showboat cruises is off the Opry Mills exit of Briley Parkway. Visitors can park for free in the Opry Mills parking lot.
When to Get There
The General Jackson Showboat hosts shows daily, with performances for lunch or dinner. Special Christmas performances kick off in mid-November and continue through the New Year.
History of the General Jackson Showboat
Named after the first steamboat that operated on the Cumberland River in 1818 (which was itself named after President Andrew Jackson), this Nashville showboat was launched in 1985 with a 36-foot paddle-wheel and a capacity for more than 1,000 passengers
Address: 2812 Opryland Drive, Nashville 37214-1209, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 89
Bluebird Caf e
In a city filled with auditoriums and concert venues, it’s the unassuming Bluebird Cafe that best captures the spirit of Nashville. For the last 32 years, the Bluebird has been showcasing some of the Music City’s most significant and recognizable talent. Many country superstars, like Garth Brooks, LeAnn Rimes, Keith Urban, and Taylor Swift—as well as the songwriters who made them famous—got their start in this small café.
The Basics
The Bluebird Cafe features live music—and perhaps the next big thing—every day and night. There’s also an occasional open-mic night that often features special guests. As the Bluebird has become one of the most popular destinations in all of Tennessee, it can be tough to secure seats. In addition to hosting shows, the café serves food and drink, and operates as an acoustic music listening room. Tours of the filming locations for the hit ABC show Nashville include a Bluebird visit, as do some Nashville city sightseeing tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Performance tickets can be reserved about a week in advance.
- Most shows have no cover charge, but there is a $10 food and drink minimum per guest.
- Sunday and Monday night shows are first come, first served. As such, lines are famously long on these days.
- Though the Bluebird Cafe serves alcohol, guests of all ages are welcome.
How to Get There
The Bluebird Cafe is located just outside downtown Nashville. There is parking directly in front of the café.
When to Get There
Most shows take place in the evening. If you plan to wait in line for tickets, arrive two to three hours before a show starts.
Other Must-See Music Spots in Nashville
Beyond the Bluebird, Music City’s other most famous venues include the Ryman Auditorium and the Grand Ole Opry—both of which are a must-see for country-music fans. These sights can be visited and toured during the day, so for the ultimate Nashville experience, check them out before attending an evening show at the Bluebird.
Address: 4104 Hillsboro Pike, Nashville, TN, USA
From $ 63