Living close to Nashville I know about many places that locals prefer that many tourist ignore when they visit Nashville. Going to the bars on Broadway is fun or getting a Sprinkles cupcake out of their ATM is also a good time, but there is so much more to Nashville than just that. There's plenty of parks, restaurants, and local attractions that many tourist don't know about or don't think is worth their time. Here are a few that i personally enjoy or hope to enjoy on my next visit home.
1. Love Circle
Meghan O'Brien for OIYS
If you are looking for a spot that is a little on the romantic side then Love Circle is a must at sunset or sunrise. This is located near Vanderbilt University overlooking downtown Nashville, which is the perfect spot for a morning coffee or a romantic picnic. This spot is considered Nashville's version of a Lover's Lane. This can be reached by a drive up a steep hill.
2. Bicentennial Park
If you're into history then the WWII Memorial in Bicentennial Park is a great place to visit. The main reason for this one is because the globe is 18,000 pounds of granite that sits on top of a fountain. Not only does it sit on the water but it also rotates freely. This monument was built in the 90's and depicts all of the places Tennesseans fought during the war. This location has more to offer than just this monument, it also has a farmers market, food court, and other historic facts about Tennessee.
3. RCA Studio B
This is one of the most iconic studios out of the many Nashville has to offer, because this is the exact studio Elvis Presley recorded over 200 songs. This studio is located on Music Row in downtown. An interesting fact about the studio is Elvis requested them to hang Christmas lights in July to feel inspired while creating his first holiday album that show cased his famous song "Blue Christmas". This place one place has so much history that its worth a trip while in Nashville.
4. #1 Bathroom in America at the Hermitage Hotel
This is a 1930's style mens restroom, but don't worry ladies due to its fame anyone is allowed to take a look inside. This bathroom is so notorious that Elvis and JFK both got their shoes shined in those very chairs. It may seem weird to ogle over a bathroom, but the luxurious style helped it claim its throne at the top. If it makes it more appealing to visit I'll just add it was given the #1 title multiple times nit just once.
5. Pedal Taverns
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to pedal a bike and drink at the same time? Well you can find out by taking a ride on one of Nashville's many pedal taverns it has to offer. I know that Nashville isn't the only place to do this, but they do have multiple to choose from even one that looks a boat you just ride on. I mean the drinks keep flowing as long as you're pedaling so might as well just ride on of these bad boys. Although you will have to fight for a seat against bachelorettes, it will be worth your time.
Nashville has so much more to offer than just these five things, but these are either staples or people just don't really know about them. Either way they are all worth the time for most tourist to visit (Yes even visiting a restroom can be worth your time). Before visiting Nashville do the research and stop going to all of the hipster places and see Nashville for what it really is which is. The truth is Downtown Nashville is kind of like a little big town, it's all crammed into a small space but is also connected to many other suburbs that also have a lot to offer and are close enough to visit while staying in Nashville.
