We visited Nashville for a few days in August 2021 and had a great time. The city is a mix of new and modern architecture, and old country music roots. It was a short two-hour flight from Houston, so it was definitely worth it and we’ll be coming back! Here is what we did.

How to Get Around Nashville

Downtown is very walkable with plenty of things to do within walking distance. We took an Uber from the airport to our hotel downtown, and got around place downtown the first few days by just walking. On the last three days of our trip, we wanted to venture out further so we rented a car through Turo.

Where to Stay in Nashville

We stayed at the Joseph Hotel located downtown at 401 Korean Veterans Blvd, Nashville, TN 37203. The Joseph Hotel is a boutique hotel and a Marriott property, so we were able to use our points to stay here for free. The hotel has a prime location close to Nashville’s renowned music scene, honky-tonk bars, and iconic landmarks. We were able to walk to a lot of places near us, including the Ascend Amphitheater that was three blocks away. We saw two concerts at the amphitheater while we were in Nashville, and the short walk there and back made the experiences even better.

Next: What to Do in Nashville

What to Do in Nashville

Broadway Street

Live music, bars, and lots of craziness on this street. Go here for a good time any time. Stepping onto Broadway Street in downtown Nashville is like diving headfirst into a whirlwind of electrifying energy and musical magic. The neon lights dance above you as the contagious rhythms of live country, rock, and blues music spill out from every honky-tonk and venue along the strip. The air is electric with the sounds of talented street performers and the laughter of fellow revelers. As you stroll down the iconic street, you’re immersed in the rich history of Nashville’s music scene, feeling the echoes of legends like Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton who once graced these very stages.

Ascend Amphitheater

We saw two performances there: Kings of Leon and Wilco. Prepare to have your senses ignited at the Ascend Amphitheater. This stunning outdoor venue offers a one-of-a-kind concert experience, where the skyline of the city forms a dazzling backdrop to the electrifying performances. As the sun sets, the atmosphere becomes charged with anticipation, and the stage comes alive with some of the biggest names in music. The crowd’s energy is infectious, as music lovers from all walks of life come together to share in the collective euphoria. The sounds resonate under the open sky, creating an immersive audiovisual spectacle that resonates in your soul.

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Enter the heart of country music’s legacy at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, where history and melody intertwine to create an exhilarating journey through the genre’s iconic past. As you walk through the hallowed halls, you’re surrounded by the instruments, costumes, and artifacts that once belonged to legends who shaped the very soul of country music. Each exhibit tells a captivating story, from the early pioneers to the trailblazers of today. You’ll be transported through time, feeling the twang of guitars and the raw emotion of lyrics that have defined generations.

You’ll need to purchase tickets for entry, which was $22.50 when we visited.

Grand Ole Opry

We saw a few performances, including an interesting bluegrass band. It took us about an hour to drive to the Grand Ole Opry, find parking, and walk into the venue.

A visit to the Grand Ole Opry is like stepping onto hallowed ground where country music’s soul resonates through every note. The air crackles with anticipation as you take your seat in the iconic venue that has hosted countless legends. The stage comes alive with the echoes of history, and the energy of the crowd is palpable, a mix of devoted fans and curious newcomers. You’re not just watching a show – you’re becoming a part of a tradition that spans generations.

Gaylord Opryland Resort Gardens

The Gaylord Opryland Resort Gardens is an indoor garden with a few waterfalls. This was close to the Grand Ole Opry. You have to pay for parking, which was expensive. This place looks better in pictures, so you might not want to go here if you’re short on time and money. It’s an okay place to check out if you’re in the area visiting the Grand Ole Opry.

The Listening Room

We bought tickets for a Monday night Song Suffragettes show and highly recommend. Tickets were inexpensive, the venue is clean and intimate, and you can order food/drinks from your table. There’s live music everywhere in Nashville, and this is a great spot to check out amazing talent.

Nestled within the heart of Nashville’s vibrant music scene, the Listening Room stands as a sanctuary for both artists and music enthusiasts alike. As you step through its doors, you’re welcomed by an intimate atmosphere that places the spotlight squarely on the music. The stage becomes a canvas for songwriters to paint their stories, melodies, and emotions with raw authenticity.

Centennial Park

Centennial Park is a vibrant urban oasis that hosts diverse events and festivals throughout the year. We came here to watch Dan and Shay, which was amazing! At the heart of the park stands the iconic Parthenon, a stunning replica of the ancient Greek temple. Stroll through the park’s lush greenery to embrace nature and let the vibrant energy of the city fade into a tranquil retreat!

There is free street parking available around the area of the park. Just be sure to read the parking signs to avoid getting a ticket or your car towed.

Vanderbilt University

Nice campus. There’s an area with a bunch of restaurants and coffee shops that’s worth checking out. The vicinity surrounding Vanderbilt University offers a variety of dining options and shopping experiences. It has a mix of restaurants ranging from casual eateries to upscale dining, so you can explore a range of cuisines. There are also shopping districts nearby that provide an assortment of stores, including boutiques, retailers, and specialty shops.

Tennessee State Museum

The Tennessee State Museum is a significant cultural institution of Nashville. It was established to preserve and showcase the history, art, and culture of the state, the museum offers visitors a comprehensive glimpse into Tennessee’s rich heritage. Its exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including Native American history, early European settlers, the Civil War era, and various aspects of the state’s social and cultural evolution. The museum provides a well-rounded educational experience for all ages with a diverse collection of artifacts, artworks, documents, and interactive displays.

Admission to the Tennessee State Museum is free. The surrounding areas of the museum are also very nice. We recommend visiting the museum and taking a walk around the area!

John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge span across the Cumberland River in downtown Nashville. The bridge is a prominent landmark and a popular destination for both locals and visitors. The iconic bridge provides pedestrians with a picturesque pathway, offering stunning panoramic views of the Nashville skyline and the river below. Named after John Seigenthaler, a respected journalist and civic leader, the bridge holds historical significance and serves as a symbol of connection within the community.

Radnor Lake State Park

Radnor Lake State Park was nice, but it was kind of far from downtown where we stayed. A variety of trails wind through the park, and the park is highlighted by the picturesque Radnor Lake.

The Gulch

The Gulch is a nice shopping district located in downtown Nashville that can get crowded at times, so plan ahead when visiting. The area features a diverse selection of restaurants, cafes, and eateries. The neighborhood also offers a mix of boutiques, galleries, and retail outlets. We like this area and recommend it!

What to Eat in Nashville

Pancake Pantry is a great breakfast spot. We walked by on a weekend where there was a long line. We came back early on a weekday and got right in! The Pancake Pantry is a longstanding establishment in Nashville, known for its breakfast offerings and classic pancake varieties. With a history dating back several decades, the restaurant has earned a loyal following for its traditional and specialty pancakes served in a charming and casual atmosphere. Its menu includes a diverse range of pancake options, catering to both sweet and savory preferences.

Assembly Food Hall is massive with a wide variety of food vendors. Situated in the heart of downtown, this expansive food hall features a curated selection of vendors and eateries, each specializing in a variety of cuisines and dishes. There’s live music and indoor / outdoor seating.

We had to try the Nashville hot chicken and choose Hattie B’s next to Assembly Food Hall. There always seems to be a line there =). Hattie B’s is a well-known Nashville restaurant with multiple locations throughout the city. It has gained popularity for its hot chicken offerings. The restaurant offers a range of heat levels, allowing you to choose your preferred level of spiciness for your chicken. Alongside its signature hot chicken, Hattie B’s also serves sides like coleslaw, macaroni and cheese, and Southern-style desserts.

If you’ve got a car or don’t mind a long Uber/Lyft, check out Loveless Cafe for southern food and a great atmosphere. Loveless Cafe is a historic establishment is celebrated for its Southern comfort food and iconic biscuits. Since its inception in the 1950s as a roadside motel and restaurant, Loveless Cafe has gained a reputation for its homestyle dishes, including country ham, fried chicken, and of course, its famous biscuits served with homemade preserves.