My summer adventure is coming to a close and it's very bittersweet. Nashville has been an amazing place to spend the summer, and I've met so many fascinating people and experienced so many 'Nashvill-ian' things; it's awesome. Even if you are just here for a weekend, this city will capture your heart. Here are the top 15 things to do in Nashville.
1. Bluebird Café
This place is iconic. In 1982, the Bluebird opened its doors, and ever since it has been a hotbed for musical talent. With limited seating, it creates a really intimate atmosphere where you can enjoy the musical stylings of up and coming talent with a nice glass of wine. It's a cool experience for sure. Tickets sell out almost immediately, so you have to act fast, and I mean fast.
2. Listening Room
The Listening Room has become a regular hangout for us at this point. It's different than the Bluebird, in that it's bigger. So sometimes there is slightly more background noise, but most times people are respectful and keep the talking to a minimum. It's really awesome to see these songwriters. One time we went, Liz Rose, the woman who co-wrote half of Taylor Swift's songs was there, and sang all of the classics. You never know who will be there. Also, random, but if you go, get the Bubbles & Berries Drink…it's life-changing.
3. Pedal Tavern
This is a great way to see different sections of the city while indulging in some spirits. You can pick one of 4 or 5 routes, and you and 10 other people sit on this moving trolley/bar of sorts and literally pedal your way through Nashville. It's a hoot, that's for damn sure.
4. Musician’s Hall of Fame
Now, this is different from the Country Music Hall of Fame, so don't get them mixed up or you will be very confused. The Musician's Hall of Fame focuses on all genres, all times, basically music in its entirety. It's also an interactive museum, so you can play instruments, and even record your own Demo (for a price of course.)
5. Music Row
Music Row is an area that includes studios where all of the big country names are signed. There is even one place, RCA Studio B, where Elvis recorded. It's cool to see where all of the 'greats' got their start.
6. Going Out on Broadway
Broadway is filled with GT's, because the bars are pretty much endless. Between the Honky Tonk bars with live music, to karaoke bars, to just average bars, there are a lot of options. No matter where you go, you’re guaranteed a good night.
7. Ryman Auditorium
This place is better if you like country music, because it hosted the Grand Ole Opry for many years (which is a huge country music show, non-country folks). It is truly a historic landmark, so if that's what you're into... check it out.
8. Country Music Hall of Fame
If you're a country music fan, this is where you need to go. This museum has exhibits on all of the great country artists. The title pretty much says it all, so if that's your thing, get to it.
9. Andrew Jackson's Hermitage
Speaking of historical landmarks, Andrew Jackson's home is located a few minutes outside of Nashville. It houses all of his belongings, and his tomb. So for all you history buffs, this is a must-see.
10. Centennial Park
First of all, where else can you see a Greek structure, besides Greece? Nashville, duh. Dab smack in the middle of Centennial Park is the Parthenon, well a replica anyway, but hey it's full size! It's also just a really pretty spot for picnicking, frolicking and general merriment. There's a pond with some ducks, dogs running around, babies in strollers …you get the picture. Also, if that hasn't sold you, there's regular live music played there, labeled 'Music Corner.'
11. Nashville Zoo
I mean, who doesn't love a good zoo? People who don't like animals, probably, but I don't relate to those people. Anyways, if you want a lovely relaxing day, you should go to the zoo.
12. Radnor State Park
If you like hiking, walking, forests, etc. go to Radnor State Park. There are multiple trails you can take, so be mindful of which one you are taking because you can get lost pretty easily… trust me. If hiking isn't your thing, there is a really pretty lake, and you can picnic, read, etc. It's very scenic.
13. Hillsboro/12 South shopping
I am an enthusiast of retail therapy. Therefore, if you need a therapeutic afternoon in Nashville, you should head over to 12 South and Hillsboro Village because they both have a bunch of cute shops and little restaurants, and it's all quite enjoyable.
14. Nashville Humane Society
Well, this is a personal preference, but if you had the option to spend an afternoon with kittens and puppies, wouldn't you? Also, I'll admit this is a plug because I want people to go there, fall in love and adopt one (like I seem to almost do every time I walk into a Humane Society anywhere). There's even a kitten room, where you can go in and be surrounded by the tiny little balls of fluffy cuteness. Your choice.
15. Historic Franklin
Historic Franklin is not in Nashville, but it's pretty much a suburb of the area. This city is historic and adorable. There are tons of cute shops, restaurants, and attractions. One thing I wanted to do here but never got to, was the ghost tour, so I would try that if I were you!
That’s all folks.