19 Best Things to Do in Nashville, TN

Nashville in Davidson County is one of America's most beloved cities.

It was founded in 1779 and named after General Francis Nash, who fought in the Battle of Germantown during the American Revolution.

Dubbed the "Music City," Nashville is well-known for its country music.

However, there is so much more to Nashville than its music.

The city has a rich history and is home to some of the most famous tourist attractions in the United States.

Here are the best things to do in Nashville, Tennessee:

Take a Country Music Tour at the Grand Ole Opry

Located on Opryland Drive, the Grand Ole Opry is a country music institution and a must-see for any country music fan.

It's been around since 1925.

The place has hosted some of the biggest names in country music history, including Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, Carrie Underwood, and Garth Brooks.

These musicians have helped make the Grand Ole Opry one of the world's most famous country music venues.

If you're a country music fan, you must visit the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.

See Some Stars at Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory

Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory is the perfect place to visit and see some stars, especially if you're an astronomy enthusiast.

The observatory, located on Oman Drive, was founded in 1961.

It's home to various telescopes, including the 24-inch Clark telescope, the 36-inch Brashear telescope, and the 76-inch reflector telescope.

These telescopes are used for public and research purposes and offer a unique opportunity for people to view the stars and planets up close.

The observatory offers public tours and star parties, which are great ways to learn more about astronomy and see some of the stars up close.

Every astronomy enthusiast visiting Nashville should take some time to explore Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory.

Go for an Afternoon Stroll Down Broadway

Nashville's Broadway district is known for its honky tonks and live music venues.

There are plenty of bars and restaurants in the area, so you'll never be bored or hungry while walking around.

Broadway is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening, especially if you're looking for some live music.

Numerous venues offer live music of all types, so you're sure to find something that interests you.

If you're in Nashville, check out the live music scene on Broadway—you won't be disappointed.

Visit Some Animals with the Family at the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

Situated in Nolensville Park, the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is a great place to spend a day with the family.

It's home to over 2,500 animals, including lions, tigers, and bears.

A variety of exhibits and activities at the zoo are perfect for kids.

The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere has a petting zoo, a playground, and a variety of animal exhibits.

It's also home to the largest aviary in the United States.

The aviary is a great place to see various birds, including macaws, parrots, and cockatiels.

Check Out Nashville's Version of The Parthenon

The Parthenon in Nashville is a replica of the ancient Greek temple of the same name.

It's located on West End Avenue and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city.

The Parthenon was built in 1897 as part of the Tennessee Centennial Exposition.

The exposition was held to celebrate Tennessee's 100th anniversary, and the Parthenon was meant to be its centerpiece.

The original Parthenon was destroyed by fire in 1936, but it was rebuilt using the same plans and materials.

Today, it serves as a museum and art gallery.

Indulge in Some Country Music and Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Located on Rep. John Lewis Way South, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is one of Nashville's most popular tourist destinations.

A variety of exhibits at the museum from the Hall of Fame Class are perfect for fans of all types of country music lovers.

It's home to over two million artifacts of country music icons, including Hank Williams' Cadillac and Patsy Cline's dress from the Grand Ole Opry.

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is great for learning more about country music history and culture.

If you're a country music fan, you won't want to miss it.

Take a Hike in the Warner Parks

The Edwin and Percy Warner Parks are known collectively as the Warner Parks, which is a great place to go hiking.

The Warner Parks offer over 26 miles of trails for visitors to explore.

They're also home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, coyotes, and foxes.

The Warner Parks features over 200 species of birds.

The center has a variety of exhibits perfect for kids and adults alike.

It's a great place to learn more about the animals that live in the Warner Parks.

Catch a Show at Ryman Auditorium

Ryman Auditorium is a famous concert hall on 5th Ave North.

It was initially built as a Union Gospel Tabernacle in 1892.

Over the years, it has hosted some of the biggest names in country music history.

Some of the most famous artists to perform at the auditorium include Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, and Elvis Presley.

The Grand Ole Opry Show also began its run at the Ryman Auditorium in 1974.

Take a Photo of Your Favorite Celebrity at Madame Tussauds Nashville

Located in Opry Mills, Madame Tussauds Nashville wax museum is a must-see if you're a fan of celebrities.

The wax museum is home to various famous faces from the worlds of music, movies, and television.

Some celebrities featured in Madame Tussauds Nashville include Taylor Swift, Justin Timberlake, Carrie Underwood, and Dolly Parton.

The museum is also home to several Marvel superheroes, including Captain America and Spider-Man.

It's a great place to take photos with your favorite stars!

Get Lost in the Gardens of Centennial Park

Centennial Park is a vast park covering over 125 acres on West End Avenue.

It's a popular tourist destination that features a variety of gardens, monuments, and an amphitheater.

The park was built to celebrate Tennessee's 100th anniversary in 1897.

It was home to the Tennessee Centennial Exposition, which was held to commemorate the state's history.

The exposition featured a variety of exhibits from different parts of Tennessee's history.

The most popular exhibit was the replica of Athens' Parthenon, which still stands in the park today.

Centennial Park has been a popular tourist destination since it opened and continues to be one of Nashville's most visited attractions.

Take a Tour of Andrew Jackson's Hermitage

Andrew Jackson's Hermitage is the home of Andrew Jackson, America's seventh president.

It's a National Historic Site and is located on Rachel's Lane.

The Hermitage was built in 1796 by Andrew Jackson and his wife, Rachel.

The couple lived in the house until they died in 1845 and 1845.

The house was initially known as the Seven Springs Farm but was renamed the Hermitage after Jackson became president.

Today, the Hermitage is open to the public for tours.

Visitors can see all of the rooms used by Jackson and his family, including the room where he died.

Catch a Game at First Horizon Park

First Horizon Park, formerly known as First Tennessee Park, is Nashville's newest baseball stadium and home of the Nashville Sounds.

It's located on Jr Gilliam Way.

The Nashville Sounds have played at First Horizon Park since its opening in 2015.

It's a great place to catch a game or take a walk.

First Horizon Park has a seating capacity of 10,000 people and features a variety of amenities, including a kids' zone, picnic areas, and a team store.

The park is also home to the largest video board in minor league baseball.

The video board measures 38 feet by 80 feet and features a resolution of 1080p.

Have a Good Time at Tootsie's Orchid Lounge

If you're looking for a good time in Nashville, you must check out Tootsie's Orchid Lounge on Broadway.

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge is the oldest honky tonk bar in Tennessee and is a favorite spot among locals and tourists alike.

It's the perfect place to let loose and have some fun!

The bar has been around since 1961 and is known for its live music and friendly atmosphere.

Some of the most famous performers to play at Tootsie's Orchid Lounge include Faron Young, Patsy Cline, Kris Kristofferson, and Loretta Lynn.

Join Nashville's Football Crowd at the Nissan Stadium

Nissan Stadium is home to the Tennessee Titans and is one of Nashville's most iconic landmarks.

If you're in town during football season, be sure to check out a game at Nissan Stadium on Titans Way.

The stadium is a state-of-the-art facility with a seating capacity of 69,143.

It features a variety of amenities, including 31 suites, 766 club seats, and a team store.

The stadium was built in 1999 and has been home to the Titans ever since.

The Titans have had some successful seasons over the years, and Nissan Stadium has become known as one of the loudest stadiums in the NFL.

See Some Famous Prints at Hatch Show Print

Hatch Show Print is a Nashville institution, and it's known as one of the most famous print shops in the country.

The shop was founded in 1879 by two brothers, Charlie and Owen Hatch.

The brothers started as sign painters and eventually opened their own print shop.

Hatch Show Print is best known for its iconic posters of country music stars, which have been displayed worldwide.

The shop has also been commissioned to create prints for several well-known brands, including Coca-Cola, Pringles, Ford Motor Company, and Jack Daniels.

You can find this attraction on Rep. John Lewis Way South.

Have Some Fun with the Kids at the Adventure Science Center

Located on Fort Negley Boulevard, the Adventure Science Center is a great place for families to spend a day.

It's home to various exhibits and activities that entertain kids of all ages.

Some attractions at the Adventure Science Center include the planetarium, the IMAX theater, and the science labs.

The center also features several interactive exhibits, including the water play area, the climbing wall, and the electric guitar exhibit.

It's a great place for families to learn and have fun!

Spend a Quiet Afternoon at Radnor Lake State Park

If you're looking for a place to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Radnor Lake State Park is the perfect place to go.

The park on Otter Creek Road is home to various trails perfect for hiking, biking, and birdwatching.

It also features many picnic areas perfect for a quiet afternoon lunch.

Radnor Lake State Park is a beautiful park with a lot to offer its visitors.

If you're looking for a peaceful place to relax, it's definitely worth a visit!

Other Things to Do Nearby

Treat the Family to a Waterpark Adventure at Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort

Twenty minutes from Nashville, Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort is a great place to spend a day with the family.

The resort features several attractions, such as a water park, a golf course, and various restaurants.

The water park is one of the most popular attractions at the resort and features a variety of water slides, pools, and splash pads.

Some highlights at the Nashville Shores water park include the giant wave pool, the lazy river, and the four-story water slide.

There are also several smaller slides and pools that are perfect for younger children.

Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort is the perfect place for families to cool off on a hot summer day!

Final Thoughts

Nashville is a city with something for everyone.

Whether you're a country music fan or just looking for a good time, the city has something in store for you.

Be sure to check out the best things to do in Nashville, Tennessee!