Nashville may sound like twangy country music and smell like barbecue, but this Tennessee city is swinging past stereotypes and fast becoming the hipster hub of the South. Think street art, coffee shops, craft breweries, farm-to-fork dining, and of course, plenty of live music (not limited to country)—all happening along the banks of the Cumberland River in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Come for the Parthenon, a full-scale replica of its counterpart in Athens, and stay for literally everything else.
After cold, snowy winters, locals and visitors alike look forward to warmer weather. Spring, particularly April, is packed full of festivals, including the Cherry Blossom Festival, Wild West Comedy Festival, and Nashville Film Festival. While summer brings higher temperatures and a bit of humidity, it’s still a great time to get in on the outdoor music scene, especially at Ascend Amphitheater or Carl Black Chevy Woods Amphitheater.
Nashville’s MTA bus system can get you around, but it’s slow, so renting a car makes the most sense for quickly traveling around the car-friendly city. Bike rentals and walking are another alternative, and ride-sharing apps are essential if you forgo a rental. Also, if you're staying at a hotel, check to see if they offer a shuttle service to or from the airport before shelling out the cash for a taxi.
The Johnny Cash Museum is about a 3-minute walk from Paradise Park Trailer Resort, a trailer park–themed bar where a Doublewide Cheeseburger gets you two 1/3-pound beef patties on a bun with a side of tater tots or sweet potato fries. If you’re more of a daredevil, try Nashville’s original hot chicken at Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack at one of the two locations: 123 Ewing Drive or 5814 Nolensville Road.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone CDT (UTC -6) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 39 | Tours 281 | Reviews 41,478 |
Yes, Nashville is considered safe to visit. The most common reported crime is theft. Tourist-friendly neighborhoods, such as downtown, Sobro, Germantown, and The Gulch, remain some of Nashville’s safest areas. As with any major city, avoid walking alone at night and travel along well-lit, busy routes.
...MoreCommonly known as the Music City, Nashville is home to legendary country music venues including the Grand Ole Opry and the historic Ryman Auditorium, as well as gritter honky-tonks where visitors can catch live music performances nightly. And while the city is synonymous with country music, many artists of all genres call Nashville home.
...MoreYes. Nashville boasts historical sites, museums, art galleries, and, of course, plenty of music venues—from lesser known to large scale. Visitors are able to catch local, regional, and major touring musicians on stages throughout the city. In addition to sightseeing, travelers can also chow down on Southern comfort food, including the city’s famous hot chicken.
...MoreWhen visiting Nashville, don’t miss the live music scene and Southern eats such as hot chicken, biscuits, and Tennessee whiskey. Swing by the lively honky-tonks along Broadway to hear upcoming and established musicians, and tour historic venues like the Ryman Auditorium or the Country Music Hall of Fame to learn more about the city’s musical roots.
...MoreBecause Nashville’s main attractions are located in a relatively compact area and are easily accessible on foot or by car, visitors can see and do a lot in one day. Along Broadway, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Ryman Auditorium. Head over to Music Row to go behind the scenes at RCA’s Studio B. Check out Printers Alley and the honky-tonks in the evening.
...MoreGet acquainted with Nashville by taking a river cruise along the Cumberland River, which runs right through the heart of the city. If you opt to stay on land, head to the Country Music Hall of Fame to learn about Nashville’s rich musical heritage, followed by a stop at Tootsies, Robert's Western World, or one of the many watering holes on Broadway—they open early—for a shot of whiskey.
...MoreVisitors can explore Nashville’s musical history at spots like the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Ryman Auditorium, the Grand Ole Opry, and the National Museum of African American Music. Take in the current music scene at venues such as the Bluebird Cafe. Indulge in Southern comfort food like biscuits and hot chicken. And learn more about the city’s past at historic sites such as Belle Meade.
...MoreWhile Broadway, downtown Nashville's main thoroughfare, serves as the center of the action thanks to its bustling bars and music venues, the city also includes diverse neighborhoods and attractions to explore. For example, in the 12 South area, travelers will find some of the best BBQ in Nashville, and Centennial Park, located near Vanderbilt University, boasts a life-size replica of the Parthenon.
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