Updated on February 14, 2023

Looking for the best things to do in Nashville, Tennessee?

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Planning the perfect trip to Music City can be a little overwhelming because there is so much to do!

To be completely honest, I’m not a huge country music fan. I was afraid that my lack of love for this genre of music would make it difficult to enjoy the country music capital. However, I found that not to be the case.

Nashville is a vibrant city that anyone can enjoy. With its bustling broadway street, tasty food scene, and boutiques galore, Nashville will surely capture your heart.

Don’t forget to print this FREE Nashville Checklist for your trip!

Shopping for your upcoming trip? Check out these 17 Trendy Nashville Outfits

Shop My Nashville Essentials

Where To Stay

Luxury $$$ – The Hermitage Hotel

Moderate $$ – 21C Museum Hotel

Budget $ – Aloft Nashville West End Hotel or Music City Hostel

The Best Things to do in Nashville

Here is a curated guide to help you discover the very best things to do in Nashville, Tennessee!

1. Stroll down Broadway

Downtown Nashville is a must-see during your trip. Grab your cowgirl boots and prepare for a crazy night out on Honky Tonk Row.

Some of the most legendary clubs are Tootsies and Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar.

Tour the Nashville highlights without the headache of traffic. This hop-on hop-off bus includes 14 popular Nashville stops.

2. Brunch it up!

Nashville is SERIOUS about brunch. No kidding, the brunch scene here is fantastic.

Some of the top brunch spots in Nashville are Biscuit Love, Milk & Honey, and Butcher & Bee.

For even more endless brunch options, click here.

3. Explore the Gulch

The Gulch is an upscale neighborhood full of delicious food spots and trendy boutiques. It’s the perfect place to to spend a sunny afternoon.

My day exploring the Gulch included brunch at Biscuit Love, stopping by Amelia’s flower truck, and shopping at thrift stores.

4. Centennial Park

This massive lush oasis offers a breath of fresh air from the hustle and bustle of the city. Explore the Athens replica of the Parthenon that the park features or see the wartime memorabilia displays.

5. Party at Santa’s Pub

My favorite bar in Nashville! If the craziness of Broadway gets to be too much, check out Santa’s Pub – a year-round Christmas-themed bar.

6. Opryland Gardens

Explore 9-acres and over 50,000 tropical plants at the Gaylord Opryland Convention Center’s indoor gardens. Anyone is welcome to see the gardens, even if you aren’t a hotel guest.

7. Take a day trip to Franklin

Franklin is a city that is located south of Nashville and is such a special gem. Visiting Franklin was the highlight of my Nashville trip. This charming city is lined with antique shops and beautiful cafés.

8. Visit the Johnny Cash Museum

Get the Johnny Cash experience and learn an in-depth history of how this music legend changed the music industry.

Adult entrance fee is $22.

9. Shop at Draper James

Nobody sets the bar for southern charm quite like Reese Witherspoon! Visit Her clothing store, Draper James, which is located at 2608 12th Ave S, Nashville.

10. Drink Wine at Arrington Vineyards

Venture out to Arrington Vineyards for a charming winery experience. Located only a half-hour from Nashville, it’s the perfect place to step away from the city for a relaxing evening in the country.

11. Catch a show at the Grand Ole Opry

See a classic country music show at the iconic Grand ole Opry. If you’re curious about how the Grand Ole Opry got its start, you can also tour the Ryman auditorium.

Check out tickets and shows here.

12. Country Music Hall of Fame

If you’re interested in country music, or any music for that matter, you’ll want to explore the Country Music Hall of Fame. It has one of the most extensive music collections in the world and is dedicated to music preservation and research.

Let me know in the comments which one of these you are looking forward to the most!

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