Nashville, Tennessee downtown skyline at twilight
Nashville is often called the “Country Music Capital of the World”. While that’s not inaccurate, it doesn’t begin to describe everything that makes this city such a fun-filled place that visitors often return to at least once a year. This is a cosmopolitan city full of a lot of special things to do, see, experience and eat! Here are a few things you should know before you visit Nashville.
1. Nashville Has Some Of The Best Music Museums In The Country
NASHVILLE, TN - OCTOBER 12: Singer Taylor Swift officially opens the Taylor Swift Education Center ... [+]
When planning your trip to Nashville, set aside plenty of time to explore its many music museums. They’re not ones you want to rush through. Even casual country music fans will be delighted by the creative, fascinating exhibits at the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum. Stop by the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to discover the history and traditions of country music in Nashville and beyond. Delve into the culture of country music with the educational programs at the Taylor Swift Education Center within the museum.
Smaller music museums in the city also deserve a lot of time and attention. The Patsy Cline Museum has a mix of personal belongings and career artifacts of the beloved singer who tragically passed away at the age of 30. The Johnny Cash Museum is considered one of the world’s top music museums, and its exhibits reveal the complex story of the Man in Black.
2. There’s A Recreation Of The Parthenon In Nashville
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - JUNE 05: Carrie Underwood performs during 2019 CMT Music Awards at The ... [+]
Speaking of museums, here’s one you’re sure to remember. The Parthenon is part of the legends that locals grow up knowing all about, but many people outside the city don’t realize that there is a stunning, full-scale recreation of the Parthenon in Nashville. If you step inside it, you’ll see a jaw-dropping, 42-foot statue of Athena that is also a full-scale recreation of the original that once stood in Athens, Greece. The Parthenon recreation also serves as an art museum with an impressive permanent collection and rotating exhibits.
3. You Don’t Need To Leave Your Canine Companions At Home
Nashville, USA - August 11, 2018. Loews Hotel across street from Vanderbilt University in downtown ... [+]
You’ll find a lot of pleasant surprises for your dog in Nashville. For one thing, dogs are welcome and even celebrated at the Loews Vanderbilt Hotel. They offer you a goodie bag for your dog upon arrival. Also, thanks to the Loews Loves Pets program, you can order fresh, gourmet meals for your dog that are delivered straight to your room.
Pet supplies such as dog coats and booties are on hand for your companion animal to use. Your dog can even enjoy a whole team to dote on them. Loews will refer you to a dog sitter as needed and even a veterinarian. Beyond the hotel, dogs can enjoy the Two Rivers Dog Park and the Shelby Bottoms Nature Center and Greenway. Other dog-friendly spots include the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park and the Riverfront Park Dog Park.
4. Any Music Lover Should Take the Time For The Fascinating Stories Of Music Row
Nashville, Tennessee-October 29, 2018: Historic RCA Victor Recording Studios on Music Row in ... [+]
Nashville is nicknamed Music City. Discover why and learn all about its musical history on Music Row. The best way to see it is with a tour guide. Did you know that Garth Brooks has sold more albums in the United States than Elvis Presley? That’s the sort of fun fact you'll learn about Nashville’s artists on tours by Let’s Go Travelin’. Also, be sure to take a tour of Historic RCA Studio B where Elvis Presley recorded many of his biggest hits.
5. The Vegan Food Scene In Nashville Is Growing
Bowl dish with brown rice, cucumber, tomato, green peas, red cabbage, chickpea, fresh lettuce salad ... [+]
Vegan dining in Nashville has never been better. You would need at least a week to try all the vegan spots in town, and many non-vegan eateries have plant-based options. Be sure to go to The Southern V where you can find the most delectable comfort food in Nashville. Choose from dozens of vegan dishes at Woodlands Indian Vegetarian Cuisine.
Menu highlights at The Wild Cow include the patty melt and chipotle seitan tacos. Graze is around the corner from The Wild Cow and has the same owners. Stop by and try the spaghetti and wheatballs. (That’s not a typo; they’re made of wheat instead of meat.) Whatever you do, don’t miss the vegan BBQ at the Sunflower Café. In addition to yummy main courses, AVO has such treats as corn muffins and walnut fudge brownies. Don’t miss out on the vegan po-boys at Vege-licious or the nutella panini at Grins Vegetarian Restaurant.
6. The Grand Ole Opry Is For More Than Classic Country Music Fans
MANCHESTER, TENNESSEE - JUNE 13: Molly Tuttle performs at the Grand Ol Opry showcase during the 2019 ... [+]
Whether you like country music or just know a few songs from Dolly Parton and Taylor Swift you heard on the radio, it’s hard to attend a show at the Grand Ole Opry without getting a bit emotional. It’s tied to the history of the country as much as the history of country music. To get the full experience, book a behind-the-scenes tour that you can enjoy during intermission.
7. The Music Scene In Nashville Is Diverse
Ryman Auditorium
Nashville is the home to several music genres, and you can find live performances to suit anyone’s preferences. The Plaza Mariachi hosts live music and offers new cultural experiences while celebrating Latin culture and history. The Ryman Auditorium has concerts by popular artists like Leann Rimes and Sheryl Crow. Of course, you can visit the infamous honky tonks any night on the city’s Honky Tonk Highway. When visiting during the summer months, don’t miss Live on the Green, a free concert series featuring bands of every genre. It is held at Public Square Park in downtown Nashville.
