Welcome to Nashville, Tennessee—the vibrant heart of American music, a city buzzing with electric energy, rich history, and some of the best Southern hospitality you’ll ever find. Nicknamed “Music City,” Nashville offers a dazzling array of experiences that go far beyond its world-famous country roots.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler looking for new adventures, planning your itinerary can be overwhelming. To help you zero in on the absolute must-sees, we’ve compiled the definitive list of the top ten things to do in Nashville. From legendary music venues to historic landmarks and trendy neighborhoods, this guide covers all the essential activities in Nashville that make a trip truly memorable. Get ready to discover the best fun things to do in Nashville TN!
The Top Ten Things to Do in Nashville
Here is your comprehensive guide to the top ten things to do in Nashville, ensuring your trip to Music City hits all the right notes.
1. Cruise Broadway and the Honky Tonks
No list of things to do in Nashville is complete without a trip to Lower Broadway. This is the city’s pulsating artery, famous for its rows of “honky tonks”—bars that offer live music from 10 AM to 2 AM, seven days a week, often with no cover charge. Wander past venues like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge and Robert’s Western World. The atmosphere is infectious, making this one of the most quintessential fun things to do in Nashville TN. You’ll witness incredible musical talent, enjoy cheap beer, and dance the night away. It’s a pure, uncut Nashville experience.
2. Experience a Show at the Ryman Auditorium
Known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” the Ryman Auditorium is a historic venue with unmatched acoustics and character. While the Grand Ole Opry is iconic, seeing a performance at the Ryman—whether it’s a country star, a comedian, or a rock band—is a transcendent experience. Before your show, take a backstage tour to learn about its incredible history. This spiritual journey through music is high on our list of top ten things to do in nashville.
3. Immerse Yourself in the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
For music lovers, this museum is a pilgrimage site. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a stunning, beautifully curated space that tells the comprehensive story of country music, from its folk roots to today’s chart-toppers. The exhibits feature priceless artifacts like Elvis Presley’s gold Cadillac and a massive collection of stage wear, instruments, and recordings. It’s an essential stop among the activities in Nashville for any culture enthusiast.
4. Catch a Performance at the Grand Ole Opry
The Grand Ole Opry is the show that made country music famous. Attending a show here is a must-do, as every performance features a mix of country legends, contemporary stars, and up-and-coming artists. It’s more than just a concert; it’s an American institution. Planning a visit to this iconic venue solidifies your vacation as one of the best fun things to do in Nashville TN.
5. Take a Picture with The Parthenon in Centennial Park
In the middle of Centennial Park, you’ll find a full-scale replica of the ancient Parthenon in Athens, Greece. It’s a stunning piece of architecture and a unique landmark on any list of things to do in Nashville. Inside, it houses Nashville’s art museum, featuring a colossal statue of the goddess Athena. The surrounding park is perfect for an afternoon stroll or a picnic, providing a peaceful break from the downtown bustle.
6. Explore the Food and Shops of The Gulch
The Gulch is Nashville’s trendy, industrial-chic neighborhood known for its high-end boutiques, chic restaurants, and the famous “What Lifts You” wings mural (a perfect spot for a photo op!). This area offers sophisticated activities in Nashville for those looking for modern dining and fashion. Try one of the many award-winning restaurants here—reservations are recommended!
7. Delve into History at the Johnny Cash Museum
A respectful and comprehensive tribute to the “Man in Black,” the Johnny Cash Museum features the largest collection of artifacts related to the iconic singer. From handwritten letters and stage costumes to instruments and interactive displays, the museum provides a deep dive into the life and legacy of one of music’s biggest stars. This is easily one of the most fascinating top ten things to do in nashville for music historians.
8. Indulge in Nashville Hot Chicken
You can’t come to Music City without trying its signature dish: Nashville Hot Chicken. Head to the legendary Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack or Hattie B’s Hot Chicken for an authentic, fiery experience. Be warned—the heat levels are serious! Sampling this regional delicacy is one of the most essential things to do in Nashville and a true test of your culinary bravery.
9. Wander Through the 12 South Neighborhood
For a charming, small-town feel within the city, spend an afternoon in the 12 South neighborhood. Lined with walkable streets, it features local coffee shops, independent boutiques (like the one owned by Reese Witherspoon), and popular photo murals. Grabbing a popsicle at Las Paletas and enjoying the residential feel makes this one of the most relaxing and fun things to do in Nashville TN. It offers a different, more laid-back vibe compared to the energy of Broadway.
10. Learn a Tune at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum
Often overlooked, the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum is a unique gem. Unlike other museums focusing on the stars, this one celebrates the session musicians who played on thousands of hit records across all genres—the unsung heroes behind the scenes. You’ll see instruments used on recordings by artists from Elvis to Motown. This hands-on, interactive museum rounds out our list of top ten things to do in nashville by honoring the craft of music itself.
Conclusion
Nashville is a city that never stops singing. Its incredible energy is matched only by the diversity of its offerings. From the bright lights of Broadway to the quiet, dignified halls of its historic venues, the activities in Nashville cater to every interest.
By focusing on these top ten things to do in Nashville, you are guaranteed a vacation filled with music, history, and flavor. Don’t just read about it—book your trip and experience the magic of Music City for yourself. You’ll quickly understand why these fun things to do in Nashville TN draw visitors from all over the globe.
We hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable adventure!
Is Nashville a walkable city, especially around the major attractions?
Yes, absolutely! The main concentration of attractions, including Broadway, the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Ryman Auditorium, and the Johnny Cash Museum, are all conveniently located downtown and easily walkable. You’ll need to use ride-sharing or public transit to reach areas like The Gulch, 12 South, or the Grand Ole Opry, but the core area is a pedestrian’s paradise (just watch out for those bachelorette party tractors!).
What is the difference between the Ryman Auditorium and the Grand Ole Opry?
- Both are iconic! The Ryman Auditorium is the “Mother Church of Country Music”—a historic, smaller venue known for its amazing acoustics and intimate setting. The Grand Ole Opry is the radio show that made country music famous, and its current home is a larger, modern venue where the show is still broadcast live. Seeing a performance at both is highly recommended for the full Nashville music history lesson.
Do the Honky Tonks on Broadway charge a cover charge?
- Generally, no, and that’s the best part! Most of the major honky tonks on Lower Broadway pride themselves on having no cover charge so you can bar-hop freely. The musicians work for tips, so make sure to show them some love—they are playing for you all day, every day!