Nashville, often dubbed “Music City,” is a vibrant destination that pulses with the rhythm of country music and Southern charm. Travelers can immerse themselves in the rich musical heritage by visiting iconic spots like the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Beyond its musical allure, Nashville boasts a burgeoning food scene, with hot chicken and barbecue being local favorites. The city’s eclectic neighborhoods offer unique shopping, dining, and nightlife experiences. Whether you’re strolling down Broadway with its lively honky-tonks or exploring the serene beauty of Centennial Park, Nashville promises an unforgettable blend of culture, history, and entertainment.

Nashville

A cityscape view of tall modern skyscrapers in a downtown area under a clear blue sky, with some buildings reflecting sunlight and a river visible on the right side.

At the end of Broadway where it meets the river, you can choose a room with a breathtaking river view to wake up to each morning or a vibrant view of Broadway.

Where to stay

Upon arriving in Nashville, my wife and I quickly realized that our hotel was not ideally situated. Our initial research had been rushed, as we originally planned to spend the week in California. However, due to the pandemic, California’s attractions were closed, leading us to choose Nashville instead. Although our hotel was on Broadway, one of Nashville’s most famous streets, it was far from the vibrant music scene we had anticipated. Recognizing this, we promptly switched hotels for the remainder of our stay. For anyone booking a hotel in Nashville, I highly recommend choosing a spot about three blocks from a well-known restaurant or bar on Broadway. This way, you’ll be within walking distance of all the entertainment but in a quieter area, perfect for early nights or sleeping in. Even three blocks away, you can still hear the drums start at 10:30 a.m. sharp. Our hotel charged $25 for parking, so check what your hotel’s parking fees are if you decide to rent a car.

Country Music Hall of Fame

I loved the Country Music Hall of Fame. To see the amount of amazing entertainers showcased was incredible. The exhibits beautifully capture the rich history and evolution of country music, from its roots to its modern-day stars. Walking through the halls, I felt a deep appreciation for the genre’s impact on American culture. The memorabilia, interactive displays, and personal stories of legendary artists made the experience truly unforgettable.

A wall decorated with numerous vintage gold and silver records in square cubbyholes, with four framed pieces featuring cartoon rabbits in colored backgrounds towards the bottom.
Display case with posters, photographs, and memorabilia of country music artists, including guitars and boots.
Red wall with text honoring country music artists and a central graphic of a radio tower with the caption 'ALL FOR THE HALL'.
Interior view of an art gallery or museum with a curved wall displaying photographs and artwork, a large skylight ceiling, and a banner with the words 'WILL THE CIRCLE BE UNBROKEN' in large letters.
Two women standing on a city sidewalk in front of a museum with large photographs of musicians on the building's exterior.

For the Love of Broadway Street

I absolutely just love Nashville, and Broadway Street is the heart of the city’s vibrant energy. The lively atmosphere, with its neon lights and bustling honky-tonks, creates an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re enjoying live music, savoring delicious Southern cuisine, or simply soaking in the rich history, Broadway Street offers something for everyone. It’s a place where the spirit of country music comes alive, and every visit feels like a celebration.

I highly recommend taking a tractor ride!!! It is a great time if you like daydrinking and dancing.

City street view with tall modern buildings, red brick buildings, a rooftop patio with red umbrellas, and flags including the American flag, under a blue sky with clouds.
A four-member band performing live on a stage in a bar or restaurant, with neon signs, posters, and a window behind them, and a drum set on a raised platform.
The image shows the view from the inside of a vehicle, looking out through a front windshield. Outside, on a city street, a small red tractor is being driven, with a person sitting on the right side and another in the driver's seat. The street is lined with green trees and a few tall buildings are visible in the background. The interior of the vehicle includes a fire extinguisher on the right side.
A group of people sitting on a pedal-powered vehicle called The Pedal Tavern, which is decorated with a sign that says 'www.tacotruck.com.' The people are enjoying drinks, and the vehicle is parked on a street.
City skyline with tall skyscrapers and green trees along a river, under a partly cloudy sky.
Red sign on a tractor show Nashville Tractor and the phone number 1.844.GITTYUP, with social media icons and website www.thenashvilletractor.com below, while people stand on the stage above in the background.

Printer’s Alley

Printer’s Alley is a historic and vibrant nightlife district located in Downtown Nashville. It is located between third and fourth Avenue and stretches from Union Street to Commerce Street. It is known for its nightlife, bars and live music. I found some great deals and food and beverages. If you want to get of the beating path of Broadway for a while, it is a great place to explore.

Street view of Alley (Printers Alley) with a neon sign reading "PRINTERS ALLEY" and a logo of a man wearing a suit with a top hat, holding a newspaper and a beer mug, against tall buildings and a partly cloudy sky.
Neon sign hanging between city buildings that reads 'Gourbon Street Blues and Boozle Bar' with string lights overhead, surrounded by brick and modern buildings.
A narrow city alley with string lights overhead, parked cars, brick and building facades, and a sign for a show called 'The Climax' visible in the distance. The street is lively with pedestrians and tall skyscrapers in the background.

My Bucket List for Next Time

When I visited Nashville, the pandemic craziness had finally ended in Tennessee. It felt like everyone was experiencing the world anew. Bachelorette parties, weddings, and graduations were in full swing everywhere I looked. Because of this, I couldn’t do everything I had planned. The lack of rental cars and fully booked venues due to large parties made it challenging to explore as much as I wanted.

A street scene at sunset with parked cars lining both sides, trees, storefronts, and a church steeple in the distance.

Franklin

Franklin, Tennessee, is a mere 30-minute drive from Nashville, making it an ideal retreat for history buffs, antique lovers, and music enthusiasts. This picturesque town seamlessly blends the old with the new, featuring a historic Main Street that stretches 16 blocks, brimming with unique shops, live music, and local charm. History aficionados will appreciate visits to the Carnton House, a notable Civil War site, and the Lotz House Museum, renowned for its well-preserved artifacts and captivating stories. With its rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere, Franklin is perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

Exterior view of the Grand Ole Opry House with banners featuring performers, an open entrance, outdoor tables and chairs, and decorative string lights.

Grand Ole Opry

The Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee, has been a cornerstone of country music since its inception in 1925. Celebrated as the “home of American music,” this iconic venue hosts live performances from both legendary artists and emerging talents, making it an essential stop for music enthusiasts. Additionally, the Opry offers backstage tours, providing fans with an exclusive glimpse behind the scenes of the storied stage where countless country music legends have performed. Whether you’re a devoted country music fan or simply eager to experience a piece of American music heritage, the Grand Ole Opry promises an unforgettable visit.

Historic two-story house with stone facade, green shutters, and white columns at the entrance, surrounded by shrubs and two white lion statues.

Belle Meade Winery

Belle Meade Winery, situated on the historic Belle Meade Plantation in Nashville, Tennessee, offers a delightful mix of history and contemporary charm. Just a short drive from downtown Nashville, the winery spans 32 beautiful acres. Visitors can indulge in wine and bourbon tastings, enjoy food pairings, and take guided tours that highlight the estate’s rich history. A unique feature is the Segway tour through the vineyard, providing a fun and scenic way to explore the grounds while learning about the winemaking process. With its blend of Southern hospitality, historical significance, and exquisite wines, Belle Meade Winery is a must-visit for any travel enthusiast.

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