If you’re like us, you probably haven’t spent much time in Nashville, Tennessee – or if you have, it was just to stop over on your way to someplace else. But this Southern city has a lot more to offer than just music (although it does have plenty of that). With more honky-tonks per capita than any other place in the world, plus music venues and restaurants on seemingly every corner, there’s no shortage of things to do in Nashville. Here are ten things you have to do in Nashville!
1) Grab a souvenir at Opry Mills
Opry Mills is one of Nashville’s top tourist attractions, and for good reason. The mall has almost 200 stores, a 20-screen movie theater and several eateries including an Olive Garden and an IHOP. Stores like Beebe, Talbots and Victoria’s Secret have multiple locations within Opry Mills, so if you can’t find something you’re looking for in one store, check another. Visitors also love The Cheesecake Factory’s full menu of pizzas, chicken dishes and salads at its location in Opry Mills – but be forewarned: it’s one of most popular restaurants in town; you might want to get there early. Book your trip with most popular destination on Spirit Airlines Nashville and Get all information including flight schedule and offers.
2) Take in the Grandeur of the Country Music Hall of Fame
Opened in 1961, this museum honors music icons like Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton. Although it primarily focuses on country music, there is a section dedicated to rhythm and blues artists like Elvis Presley. As one of Nashville’s most famous attractions, visiting here should be a priority when traveling through Music City. Admission is $22 for adults and $14 for children ages 6-12. Although admission is free on Tuesdays between 3 p.m.-5 p.m., tickets are still required in order to get into any of the performances or shows at Bridgestone Arena; therefore you might have to pay more than your ticket says if you end up deciding to stay late and catch some live entertainment after spending time exploring all of Hall of Fame’s exhibits!
3) Watch old stars perform at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge
Dating back to 1927, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is a beloved haunt of many rock stars and country legends. While you’re enjoying your favorite drink, look around and spot plaques on walls celebrating artists that have been known to jam here. Be sure to come at night, when live music starts – watch a future icon perform their own set or sit in with an already-established one. Don’t miss out on all the must-see things to do in Nashville!
4) Try Southern Soul Food at Monell’s
This historic establishment is known for its fried chicken, which The New York Times wrote deserves a place in history. A local favorite, be sure to stop by and give it a try. Be sure to call ahead; Monell’s does not take reservations. Oh, and if you have time make sure you see Honky Tonk Highway or Midnight Cowboy at The Movie Tavern. It will change your life! Both are based on true stories that took place right here in Music City! Go Crazy at Parthenon: Located on Centennial Park grounds, Parthenon is an exact replica of Greece’s famed Parthenon. It was built as part of a New Deal-era program initiated during Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidency meant to provide jobs for out-of-work Americans during the Great Depression years.
5) Climb to the Top of the St. Elmo Fire Tower
For $5, you can hike to one of Music City’s most picturesque viewpoints. Climb 332 steps to see downtown Nashville, including iconic spots like Bridgestone Arena and Ryman Auditorium. On a clear day, you’ll even get a glimpse of Vanderbilt University and its football stadium in neighboring Franklin. The tower is open from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 7 days per week year-round except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day (and Christmas Eve). Outside those dates, hours vary depending on weather conditions; call before your visit to check on current availability.
6) Get Inspired by Vocal Legends at Hatch Show Print
Hatch Show Print is a music-themed print shop located in downtown Nashville that has been operating since 1879. The company prints concert posters, playbills and other ephemeral material to promote upcoming concerts, plays and events. Hatch Show Print has collaborated with hundreds of famous musicians over its 130+ year history, including Minnie Pearl, Elvis Presley and Charlie Daniels. Their most recent project is an installation called Posterity which features special Hatch concert posters that are printed directly on three story tall chandeliers. If you can’t make it to Tennessee for their newest print release, you can purchase Hatch posters online. Get inspired by some legendary artists at one of our favorite musical landmarks!
7) Cheer On Country Music Superstars At The Grand Ole Opry
Whether you’re a country music fan or not, it’s hard to deny that there’s something special about stepping foot into one of America’s most famous live music venues. The Ryman Auditorium is home to The Grand Ole Opry, a show that has been going strong since 1925. Even if you don’t care for country music, there are still plenty of other attractions in Nashville that might pique your interest. And check out your Spirit Flights Status Today. During peak times, seats at Grand Ole Opry shows can be pricey and hard to come by—but it doesn’t hurt to try!
8) Shop ‘Til You Drop At The Factory Shopping Mall
This one isn’t just for tourists. The Factory, as it’s known to locals, is an indoor shopping mall in downtown Nashville that has more than a hundred shops and restaurants under one roof. The best part? It’s connected to Centennial Park, so you can grab lunch at Carmine’s before heading to Fido and Barre at SLIM fitness center. Then stop by J Crew and Anthropologie on your way back through!
9) Pick Your Nose And Eat It Too At Blake Shelton’s Ole Red
If you don’t know who Blake Shelton is, it’s time to go back under your rock. If you do know who he is and still think picking your nose and eating it too is funny, then make sure to check out Ole Red in Downtown Nashville. The restaurant has been dubbed a novelty restaurant that offers an interactive experience for country music fans, but it also serves food and drinks with a little extra on top for anyone daring enough to indulge their silly side. Even if you aren’t a fan of Blake Shelton or his music, you’ll love Ole Red anyway! It’s interactive experiences are unlike anything else you’ve seen before.
10) Take a Selfie at The Bluebird Cafe
This is a Tennessee must. An absolutely legendary music venue, The Bluebird Cafe has launched careers and more than a few songwriters. Perched in east Nashville, it’s a little tricky to find—you actually enter through what looks like someone’s front door—but that just adds to its charm. Make sure you get there early; you want to be one of those lucky people who has their name on one of those big brass plaques on a table upstairs.
