In recent years, Nashville has experienced a boom in growth changing the city from what it once was. In speaking with locals that were born and raised in the city, some were apprehensive about the changes saying it has strayed too far from its country roots. My expectations for the city were cowboy boots and southern twangs to which I surprisingly didn’t see much of. Nashville instead surprised me by being fresh, trendy, and energetic with a touch of Southern charm.
Despite the changes in this growing city, you’re still able to experience some of that historic country magic. Here is my review of touristy things to do in Nashville that will help round out your Nashville experience.
For any country music fan this is surly a must-do. This museum features photos and artifacts from beloved artists including hand-written song lyrics and infamous costumes worn by the performers themselves. Some of my favorite features were of Kacey Musgraves, the Elvis Presley Cadillac, and Taylor Swift.
I made a quick stop here and really enjoyed the current exhibit, Monsters & Myths. They featured art from Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali and Jackson Pollock. The architecture of the museum itself is beautiful with high ceilings. Also, if you visit the Country Music Hall of Fame then you get free entry here!
Within this park sits an exact replica of the Parthenon! It’s a beautiful building and offers tours inside as well. This is a nice stop to get outside of the hustle and bustle of the city while still experiencing some Nashville culture.
Attend a Concert At Bridgestone Arena
While in Nashville we had debated what to do during our last night since we had intentionally left it wide open. We knew that the Jonas Brothers were performing at the arena which we thought would be cool to see a show at however we’re not the biggest Jonas Brothers fans so we weren’t sure. We ended up going for it and it was the best decision ever! First, the Jonas Brothers were incredible and put on an amazing show. Bebe Rexha opened and did an incredible job too. Since we were in Nashville it was also fun when they brought out Kelsey Ballerini and Dan + Shay for guest performances. The biggest draw of seeing a show in this type of venue is the energy from the crowd. We ended up having so much fun that it was a highlight of our entire trip.
Walk Across The Pedestrian Bridge
Located right near Broadway street, this bridge offers a wonderful view of the city. It’s not far out of your way or a super long bridge so it’s well worth a quick stop!
RCA Studio B Tour through Country Music Hall of Fame
The historic RCA Studio B is Nashville’s oldest remaining recording studio. This studio was the home to many iconic artists such as Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, and the Everly Brothers. On this tour you are taken into the studio and have a chance to sit at Elvis’ favorite piano. Many behind-the-scenes music snippets are shared throughout the tour as you hear Elvis’ mess up the words while recording Devil in Disguise. Recording artists in the 1950’s were just that, artists, who would perfect a song and sing it through from start to finish, unlike artists today that benefit from new technology. It was incredible standing in the same room these icons once stood.
Other Experiences I Didn’t Get To This Time
Ryman Auditorium Tour – I really wanted to visit here but ran out of time. You can catch live music as the venue still puts on shows or do a behind the scenes tour!
Grand Ole Opry – Between the Opry, the hotel and mall, you could easily spend an afternoon here! Enjoy some good food and attend a concert at the country’s most famous stage.
Cheekwood Estate & Botanical Gardens – These gardens are sprawling and stunning!
Belle Meade Plantation – Sitting just outside of Nashville, this came recommended as a worthwhile stop. The grounds are beautiful and offer a unique look into Tennessee history.
