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Nashville, the heart of Tennessee state in the United States, is closely related to country music. It has received many nicknames, such as “Music City,” for offering a vibrant music culture. But on the other hand, many must-see things in Nashville are there for you to explore.

If we step back, many musical legends have emerged from this town, such as Taylor Swift, Dolly Parton, etc. Thus, not making you wait further, let’s plunge deeper into some of the popular attractions of this Music City.

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The Top 13 Must-See Things in Nashville. Photo by Tanner Boriack on Unsplash
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    The Top 13 Must See Things In Nashville:

    In this article, we will explore some of the most fun things to do in Nashville off the beaten path. We will address some must see things in Nashville that allow you to have an experience of a life time.

    1) Grand Ole Opray:

    Grand Ole Opray is one of the most popular must-see things in Nashville. It can immerse you in Nashville’s rich musical heritage while representing its cultural importance.

    In 1925, it started as a weekly one-hour radio barn dance show on WSM radio station. This helped put Nashville on the map as the “Country music capital of the world.”

    From 1943, Ryman Auditorium became the home of the Grand Ole Opry and remained so until 1973. After that, many country music shows and concerts were held there. If you like country music, don’t forget to check out this place on your visit to Nashville.

    2) Country Music Hall Of Fame And Museum:

    For country music fans, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum place is another add-on to our must see things in Nashville. It’s an adobe to 2.5 million artifacts that preserves the tradition and beauty of country music in the most beautiful forms.

    This place is widely regarded as the “Smithsonian of Country Music”, because it celebrates the existence of country music and helps visitors to gain more knowledge about the enriched history of country music.

    You will be greeted here with the “Sing Me Back Home: A Journey Through Country Music” title which highlights the origination of country music and the contribution of various artists in promoting it. Overall, your curiosity regarding Music City will be satisfied once you enter the museum.

    3) The Parthenon:

    The Parthenon is simply a replica of the original ancient Parthenon in Athens, Greece. Nashville was also known as the “Athens of the South” for being the centre of learning, and it utilised this title to build the epitome of classical Greek architecture: the Parthenon.

    Since the 1930s, it has been hosting art exhibitions and providing information on the Greek legacy to visitors. Here, you may lose yourself in the natural beauty of Centennial Park while enjoying the art exhibitions and many enriching activities.

    4) Ryman Auditorium:

    Regarding some of the must-see things in Nashville, it’s impossible to forget the name Ryman Auditorium. After being home to the Grand Ole Opry, this place has become an iconic concert hall where artists and fans celebrate nights with music, comedy, poetry, and many educational events.

    Due to its unparalleled interior and state-of-the-art technology, the auditorium always amazes the audience. That’s why Pollstar has voted it “Venue of the Year” 13 times and chosen it as the best spot to host ACM honors, CMA awards, etc.

    5) National Museum Of African American Music:

    Years of history and stories behind the numerous music genres created by African and American artists are preserved in the National Museum of African American Music.

    It’s considered the only museum to tell the stories about evolving African American music. In 2021, this museum opened to the public and gradually became a hub to explore the hidden sides of America’s Black music and much more.

    6) Bluebird Cafe:

    Bluebird Café is more than just a listening room because it’s a testament to Nashville’s years of preserved musical heritage. The space also inspires songwriters, so don’t miss adding this to your must-see things in Nashville.

    Artists like Garth Brooks, Faith Hill, and Taylor Swift had lived some great moments here before hitting big on the world’s stage. However, remember that the café has a be-quiet policy, so enjoy music silently there. You can even shop for various gift items from its official store.
    body of water near city buildings during sunset
    Fun Things To Do In Nashville. Photo by kortney musselman on Unsplash

    7) Honky Tonky Highway:

    Honky Tonky Highway, which is situated on the lower Broadway, is a popular must-see thing in Nashville. Throughout the street, live musical events are played 365 days a year.


    Many musical artists like Willie Nelson, Dierks Bentley, and others started their musical careers on this street. If you wish to do street busking, then that’s a great idea to make your Nashville trip even more memorable.

    8) Belmont Mansion:

    Within the walls and aura surrounding Belmont Mansion, several years of history are captured for visitors to learn. It was the largest Italian house constructed in Tennessee before the Civil War.


    Once upon a time, it was the home of Nashville socialite Adelicia Acklen and Joseph Acklen. Later, it became a temporary headquarters of the Union Army and a women’s college.

    In 1971, the house was registered on the National Register of Historic Places. In the same year, the Belmont Mansion Association decided to safeguard its history and collectables as a museum.

    9) Cheeekwood Estate And Gardens:

    Couples seeking a serene and lovely place to spend quality time together must check out this place. The Cheekwood Estate and Gardens comprises 13 gardens to indulge in the natural scenic landscape.

    The blooms you notice while strolling through the gardens and holding your partner’s hand will make your visit completely romantic. There’s also an on-site art museum where the collectables of the Cheek family are stored and preserved.

    The Cheeckwood Estate and Gardens is one of the fun things to do in Nashville, specially if you have kids. It is a good opportunity for them to learn about this city’s culture and explore the gardens.

    10) Fort Nasborough:

    Fort Nashborough is historically essential in protecting people from wild animals and Indians. Initially, it was built as a stockade with cabins and blockhouses, but later, it served as a settlement and the origination of what people today call a “Nashville” city.

    Today, visitors can take a lot after reaching here because there are many artefacts to recount and remember the contributions of some brave pioneers.

    11) Radnor Lake:

    Nashville provides a perfect blend of peace and music, and Radnor Lake justifies this statement pretty well. It nestles 14 km south of downtown and is spread over 1368 acres, which offers enough space to walk, bike or hike a trail.

    The entire area feels calm and peaceful, so if you are looking for some time away from the hustle and bustle of city life, it’s the perfect place to check out. Add it to your list of must-see things in Nashville.

    12) Nashville Zoo:

    Stroll through the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere to meet around 339 animal species, especially clouded leopards, red pandas, rhinoceroses, and so on. It’s the best spot for animal lovers and children, where you will not only learn about multiple animals but also have fun visiting the hands-on exhibits such as Critter Encounters, Lorikeet Landing, etc.

    Children love to visit this zoo because it has a historic home and garden, a zip line, a 4D theatre, and many other fun activities.

    13) Adventure Science Center:

    If you are on a family trip with your children, Adventure Science Center is a beautiful choice to evoke excitement and fun. It’s one of the must-see things in Nashville because it offers an engaging learning experience, many innovative programs, and much more.

    Undoubtedly, it can make you fall in love with science and technology by cultivating a better sense of understanding about us and around the world. Every year, around 20,000 guests are admitted to participate in field trips and learn more about STEM (science, technology, engineering, maths).

    Best Time To Visit Nashville:

    As Nashville is situated in the sub-tropical region, locals encounter all kinds of weather throughout the year. But considering the convenience and tasting an everlasting experience, it’s best to visit from April to October, with May to June being the peak travelling season.

    The weather remains pleasant and favourable during this time, so you will not miss exploring any hidden must-see things in Nashville. However, budget-friendly people can come during the months of December to March because the flight and stay fares will be lower than in other months.

    Are You Ready To Uncover Your Own Nashville Adventure?

    Nashville isn’t only a great place for the music art lover; here’s a treasure trove of surprises waiting to be explored. For the history buffs, Nashville has plenty of things to offer.

    The city also has a very rich history in country music and produces great artists. Apart from that, many must-see things in Nashville will fill your heart and mind with remarkable experiences.

    Whether you are a first-time traveler or just seeking a trip driven by some music, Nashville is the best place to visit. Remember glamping in Tennessee near Nashville. It is an experience not to miss.

    I hope you enjoyed our list of the fun things to do in Nashville. Please, comment your experience of any destination mentioned above or your visit to Nashville in General. We would love to hear your thoughts about it.

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