Nashville Attractions (Things To Do)

It is practically impossible to be bored in Nashville! We have a never-ending supply of shops, restaurants, parks, attractions, landmarks, and more. Not to mention sports games, car races, antique shows, museums, Civil War sites, theaters, and – of course – music, music, music! From concerts to shows to museums to tours, Music City USA can’t be beat.

You can take a tour through the city either on your own by bus, trolley, or car – or by foot on the Downtown Historical Walking Tour. There are many guided tours available as well including horse-drawn carriage rides and Barge or Showboat excursions on the river.

While we could go on forever about all the area attractions, here is the dirt for some of our favorites:

• NashTrash Tours – Leave the youngin’s at home and get ready to laugh ‘til yer gut rips out yer side! This 90 minute musical-comedy tour on the big pink bus is hosted by the Jugg Sisters. They are more than willing to dish out the trash on your favorite country music legends. You’ll learn all about the Music Row gossip, get some trashy make-up tips, and yes, you ARE allowed to drink some spirits on the way. Don’t forget to ask about their famous recipe for Mama’s Knock-Ya-Nekkid Margaritas.
• Grand Ole Opry – This is the world’s longest running radio show. Live broadcasting began in 1925 with legendary country music and continues today with country, bluegrass, and other musical venues.
• Country Music Hall of Fame – Enjoy 40,000 square feet of exhibits that display the chronological history of country music. The tour lasts about 3 hours.
• Ryman Auditorium – Often referred to as the “Mother Church” of country music, the Ryman Auditorium has memorabilia on display for your viewing pleasure. This is Nashville’s premier performance hall and offers nightly shows in a multitude of music genres, musical theatre, and an occasional comedian or other performer. This hall was home to the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 until 1974 when the Opry moved to its current location at Opryland USA.
• Nashville Symphony – Presents year-round shows of world-class symphony performances.
• Adventure Science Center – Kids and adults will both enjoy the hands-on exhibits, science-related displays, simulated flights, and planetarium.
• Belle Meade Plantation – A restored mid-1800s mansion surrounded by 30 acres of lush, green grass and shade trees. The home is furnished with 19th century antiques and guided tours are available.
• Nashville Toy Museum – No matter how old you are, the child in you will come out here. On display, you’ll find antique toys, early 1900s teddy bears, lead soldiers in battle set-up, and a special area dedicated to both toy and model trains.
• Music City Raceway – Feel the need for speed? Have fun with drag-racing between March and October.
• Wildhorse Saloon – Likely one of the hottest country dance halls around. Don’t worry if you aren’t a pro because free dance lessons are offered.
• Jack Daniels Distillery – Learn the story of the famous whiskey at the distillery located about 26 miles south of the quaint town of Lynchburg. Founded in 1866, it is the oldest registered distillery in the United States.
• Nashville Zoo – Plan for a day of fun with the animals. Don’t miss the special exhibits like the Alligator Cove, Critter Encounters, and the Giraffe Savannah.
• Hermitage House – This was President Andrew Jackson’s home, a stunning Ante-bellum plantation originally built in 1819. After it was severely damaged by fire, Jackson rebuilt it in 1837 when he also painted it white to conceal the smoke-stained bricks.