6 Things You Must See in Nashville

Nashville is best known as the home of country music. Its identity is impossible to separate from the famous country performers and their legions of devoted fans. There are plenty of great country music attractions in Nashville that you will enjoy regardless of your musical leanings, and there are also plenty of other great things to see in this genteel southern city.

As you enter the heart of Tennessee, plan on spending some time at some of these unique local attractions. There is plenty of country music involved, but there are some other stops that will give you a whole new view of what Nashville is really like.

The Country Music Hall of Fame

This place has it all from the entire history of country music. From inaugural members Hank Williams and Roy Acuff to recent additions Ricky Skaggs and Alan Jackson, the Hall of Fame features interactive exhibits, donated outfits and instruments, and countless other items commemorating their careers and the genre of music they helped build into a worldwide phenomenon.

The Ryman Auditorium

For many of those Hall of Fame members, their big break was a performance on the Grand Ole Opry stage. Until 1974, the popular WSM radio program originated from the Ryman Auditorium, and while the broadcast now comes from a new location, almost 100 years of music history still resonates inside the venerable Ryman. Because its fame began with a huge 1800’s revival, it’s known as the Mother Church of Country Music, but the performances it still hosts today take place every day of the week.

Broadway

Just out the side exit of the Ryman is the rear door of the famous Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, perhaps the most famous of all the small musical venues along Broadway. The most famous parts of the street stretch from First Avenue along the Cumberland River to Fifth Avenue near Bridgestone Arena, and the area is populated with restaurants, bars, and shops, filled with eager tourists and make-or-break musicians looking to be the next star. Countless entertainers trace their beginnings to this area, and you just might see the next big thing strumming on the corner for tips.

Lane Motor Museum

Now let’s shift gear–literally. The paths to Nashville are well-worn by tourists and those aspiring musicians, so cars are an essential part of the Nashville story. For a look at some of the unique machines that have carried people to and through their dreams around the world, the Lane Motor Museum is a must-see. It’s filled with everything that you can drive, pedal, row, or even pilot, with special exhibits on different manufacturers and other new events each year. It’s affordable and family-friendly, too.

The Parthenon

What could be more at home in the Old South than a touch of ancient Greece? It may seem a little out of place, but the replica of the Greek structure and the statue of Athena inside have become a key part of Nashville culture since their introduction for the city’s 1897 Centennial Exposition. Located in Centennial Park, the Parthenon serves as cultural focus for the city, hosting special events and serving as the city’s home for a collection of 19th and 20th century art.

The Hermitage

For something that’s a little more of what you’d expect from Tennessee culture, the Hermitage is a great stop. The home of 7th President of the United States is more than simply a gracious antebellum mansion. It’s also a sprawling garden and grounds that includes a wide variety of plants and the stories of Jackson’s cotton plantation. The tomb of the President himself is also located on the property. Tours and various exhibits can be seen year-round, and parts of the facility are even available for hosting events.

Nashville is a vibrant city with a diverse history and a fascinating, energetic present. With a few days in the city, you can find countless ways to take in the scenery, culture, and history of this unique American destination. Good planning is always a helpful step, so take a little time to review the opportunities in Nashville before packing up for a visit.