Nashville Wish List
By Margarita Hirapetian
Nashville Wish List
By Margarita Hirapetian
Hit all the right notes with a visit to Music City.
The legendary city of Nashville is a true Southern belle, a place where the melodies of music and a rich tapestry of cultural experiences blend together in perfect harmony. Immerse yourself in Music City’s unique vibe and discover its hidden gems with this encompassing “wish list” that will guide you through all that you must see, must eat, and must do. Whether you’re a foodie, a music lover, a sports enthusiast, or simply seeking new experiences, Nashville’s eclectic mix of attractions ensures an enriching and memorable visit.
Savor the Heat of Nashville Hot Chicken
Some like it hot, very hot. A trip to Nashville is incomplete without trying its signature dish, hot chicken. This local delicacy, known for its fiery spices and crispy texture, can be found throughout the city. Hattie B’s, Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack, and Bolton’s Spicy Chicken & Fish are iconic spots to experience this mouth-watering cuisine. But if you’d rather not scorch your taste buds, Nashville boasts true culinary diversity all over, including chef-driven restaurants. With nearly 300 new restaurants opening since 2020, a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure awaits.
Savor the Heat of Nashville Hot Chicken
Some like it hot, very hot. A trip to Nashville is incomplete without trying its signature dish, hot chicken. This local delicacy, known for its fiery spices and crispy texture, can be found throughout the city. Hattie B’s, Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack, and Bolton’s Spicy Chicken & Fish are iconic spots to experience this mouth-watering cuisine. But if you’d rather not scorch your taste buds, Nashville boasts true culinary diversity all over, including chef-driven restaurants. With nearly 300 new restaurants opening since 2020, a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure awaits.
Experience a Live Sports Event
Nashville is home to several professional sports teams, including the NFL’s Tennessee Titans and the NHL’s Nashville Predators. Catching a game at the Nissan Stadium or Bridgestone Arena offers an electrifying atmosphere filled with passionate fans and thrilling sports action. Be one of the first to check Major League Soccer in Music City. Get a kick out of Nashville’s SC team and cheer them on at GEODIS Park. The energy will sweep you away and you’ll no doubt find that Nashvillians are as sporty as they are musical.
Experience a Live Sports Event
Nashville is home to several professional sports teams, including the NFL’s Tennessee Titans and the NHL’s Nashville Predators. Catching a game at the Nissan Stadium or Bridgestone Arena offers an electrifying atmosphere filled with passionate fans and thrilling sports action. Be one of the first to check Major League Soccer in Music City. Get a kick out of Nashville’s SC team and cheer them on at GEODIS Park. The energy will sweep you away and you’ll no doubt find that Nashvillians are as sporty as they are musical.
Discover Music History at Museums
Nashville has more music museums than any place in the world. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. This iconic institution showcases the history and evolution of country music, featuring artifacts, recordings, and interactive exhibits you won’t find anywhere else. The National Museum of African American Music and the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum are two other must-see places any music lover will appreciate.
Discover Music History at Museums
Nashville has more music museums than any place in the world. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. This iconic institution showcases the history and evolution of country music, featuring artifacts, recordings, and interactive exhibits you won’t find anywhere else. The National Museum of African American Music and the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum are two other must-see places any music lover will appreciate.
Stroll Through Centennial Park
Need a moment to yourself? Centennial Park, a sprawling urban oasis, offers a tranquil retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. The park’s centerpiece, a full-scale replica of the Parthenon, stands as a testament to Nashville’s nickname, the “Athens of the South.” The park is also perfect for picnics, leisurely, meditative walks, and a variety of cultural events.
Stroll Through Centennial Park
Need a moment to yourself? Centennial Park, a sprawling urban oasis, offers a tranquil retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. The park’s centerpiece, a full-scale replica of the Parthenon, stands as a testament to Nashville’s nickname, the “Athens of the South.” The park is also perfect for picnics, leisurely, meditative walks, and a variety of cultural events.
Check Out the Local Art Scene
Nashville’s burgeoning art scene can be explored through its many galleries and art districts. The Frist Art Museum, known for its ever-changing exhibitions, is a cultural landmark. The downtown 5th Avenue of the Arts is another hotspot, featuring a vibrant collection of galleries and public art installations. Don’t leave Nashville without doing an art crawl, often happening on the first Saturday of every month (the month of October is particularly popular and nicknamed “Artober”), where dozens of galleries open their doors to visitors.
Check Out the Local Art Scene
Nashville’s burgeoning art scene can be explored through its many galleries and art districts. The Frist Art Museum, known for its ever-changing exhibitions, is a cultural landmark. The downtown 5th Avenue of the Arts is another hotspot, featuring a vibrant collection of galleries and public art installations. Don’t leave Nashville without doing an art crawl, often happening on the first Saturday of every month (the month of October is particularly popular and nicknamed “Artober”), where dozens of galleries open their doors to visitors.
Enjoy the Nightlife on Broadway
Broadway, the heart of Nashville’s nightlife, is lined with honky-tonks and bars where live music plays until the early hours and dance floors are always full. Each venue, like the famous Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, offers a unique experience blending music, drinks, and a lively atmosphere. Not necessarily a country music fan? Not to worry, as there are over 180 live music venues playing music of all genres throughout the city. Nashville is truly Music City, after all.
Enjoy the Nightlife on Broadway
Broadway, the heart of Nashville’s nightlife, is lined with honky-tonks and bars where live music plays until the early hours and dance floors are always full. Each venue, like the famous Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, offers a unique experience blending music, drinks, and a lively atmosphere. Not necessarily a country music fan? Not to worry, as there are over 180 live music venues playing music of all genres throughout the city. Nashville is truly Music City, after all.
Attend the Grand Ole Opry
Of course, no Nashville wish list is complete without a visit to the Grand Ole Opry, the stage that made country music famous. As the longest running radio show, it will be celebrating 100 years in 2025. Attending a live performance or taking a backstage tour of this world-renowned venue is an unforgettable experience that connects you to the soul of Nashville’s musical heritage.
Attend the Grand Ole Opry
Of course, no Nashville wish list is complete without a visit to the Grand Ole Opry, the stage that made country music famous. As the longest running radio show, it will be celebrating 100 years in 2025. Attending a live performance or taking a backstage tour of this world-renowned venue is an unforgettable experience that connects you to the soul of Nashville’s musical heritage.
Step Back in Time at Historic RCA Studio B
Once home to musical talents like Elvis Presley, Chet Atkins, and the Everly Brothers. This iconic recording facility, established in 1957, boasts a rich history, hosting artists from pop, rock, R&B, and country genres. Today, it’s not just a cultural hotspot for visitors from the Country Music Hall of Fame®️ and Museum but also a dynamic classroom for students. Get ready to immerse yourself in the magic where classics were born, from Roy Orbison’s “Only the Lonely” to Dolly Parton’s “Coat of Many Colors.” Thanks to the Mike Curb Family Foundation, this time capsule from the ’60s is alive and groovin’, inviting visitors to witness the preservation of music history.
Step Back in Time at Historic RCA Studio B
Once home to musical talents like Elvis Presley, Chet Atkins, and the Everly Brothers. This iconic recording facility, established in 1957, boasts a rich history, hosting artists from pop, rock, R&B, and country genres. Today, it’s not just a cultural hotspot for visitors from the Country Music Hall of Fame®️ and Museum but also a dynamic classroom for students. Get ready to immerse yourself in the magic where classics were born, from Roy Orbison’s “Only the Lonely” to Dolly Parton’s “Coat of Many Colors.” Thanks to the Mike Curb Family Foundation, this time capsule from the ’60s is alive and groovin’, inviting visitors to witness the preservation of music history.
Find the Neighborhood to Match Your Personality
Nashville is defined by its neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and character. Start off the day by discovering East Nashville, an eclectic neighborhood that has attracted many musicians and visual artists. Next, explore the walkable 12South neighborhood with a vintage clothing store on one end, a gourmet restaurant on the other, and many unique Nashville businesses in between: coffee houses, bakeries, bars, and boutiques featuring local designers and makers. End your day by traveling over to The Gulch and see how it has perfectly combined its industrial background with a contemporary style to create an area of restaurants and nightlife.
Find the Neighborhood to Match Your Personality
Nashville is defined by its neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and character. Start off the day by discovering East Nashville, an eclectic neighborhood that has attracted many musicians and visual artists. Next, explore the walkable 12South neighborhood with a vintage clothing store on one end, a gourmet restaurant on the other, and many unique Nashville businesses in between: coffee houses, bakeries, bars, and boutiques featuring local designers and makers. End your day by traveling over to The Gulch and see how it has perfectly combined its industrial background with a contemporary style to create an area of restaurants and nightlife.
Take in a Songwriters-in-the-Round Show
Experience the distinctive Nashville music scene through a songwriter’s show, often dubbed a “writers night.” Songwriters step out of their comfort zones into the spotlight, showcasing their immense talent in an intimate setting. ‘In-the-round’ performances feature singer/songwriters on stage with just a microphone, a guitar, and their craft. Discover these captivating shows in cozy venues across town, from the renowned The Bluebird Cafe in Green Hills to downtown’s The Listening Room Café, where musicians connect with audiences in a unique and personal way.
Take in a Songwriters-in-the-Round Show
Experience the distinctive Nashville music scene through a songwriter’s show, often dubbed a “writers night.” Songwriters step out of their comfort zones into the spotlight, showcasing their immense talent in an intimate setting. ‘In-the-round’ performances feature singer/songwriters on stage with just a microphone, a guitar, and their craft. Discover these captivating shows in cozy venues across town, from the renowned The Bluebird Cafe in Green Hills to downtown’s The Listening Room Café, where musicians connect with audiences in a unique and personal way.
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