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Broadway in downtown Nashville.
Nashville may be the country music capital of the world, but there’s a lot more to do there than see a concert. The city is full of culture and great food. Definitely see one, though—they don’t call Nashville Music City for nothing.
Here are the cultural high notes in Nashville:
Country Music Hall of Fame
Gold records at the Country Music Hall of Fame
Even if you think you’re not a fan of country music, you can’t deny the century of music history at the Country Music Hall of Fame, which has relics from Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton and hundreds of other seminal musicians with crossover fans. The museum hosts regular music performances and workshops. The museum offers partner deals with the nearby Omni Nashville Hotel and the Hilton Nashville Downtown.
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
Sapphire Star by Dale Chihuly at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
Once a private home, this estate is now a fine art museum surrounded by botanical gardens. During Thursday Night Out, which happens every Thursday evening from June through October, there are lawn parties that include games, music, food and cocktails. In August, you can even bring your dog. To stay close to Cheekwood, check out InTown Suites Bellevue.
Grand Ole Opry
The Grand Ole Opry
One of the most famous music landmarks in the country, the Grand Ole Opry hosts concerts nearly every night of the week. You can also take backstage tours during the day, or after shows at night. The Gaylord Opryland Hotel is next door.
Ryman Auditorium
The Ryman Auditorium
Another Nashville musical landmark, the Ryman also hosts performances, but not just of country music, but also varied musical acts and comedy performances, as well as tours and exhibits. The 21C Nashville is a boutique hotel with an art museum inside and is just down the road from the Ryman.
Adventure Science Center
Adventure Science Center
This fun museum for kids and adults is open 363 days of the year (closed only Thanksgiving and Christmas) and stays open until 10 p.m. on the second Saturday of every month. The Planetarium offers several different astrology and laser shows daily, and exhibits about earthquakes, energy, physics and other fascinating scientific phenomena will expand little minds. Thompson Nashville is a boutique hotel nearby.
General Jackson Showboat
General Jackson Showboat
This genuine showboat cruises the Cumberland River, and offers afternoon and evening performances daily with music and dancing. You can opt for just the show, or to have a meal while you watch. Nearby, stay the night at The Inn At Opryland.
