Top 3 Things to Do in Nashville 

Tennessee joined the Union in 1796, and in the centuries since, has given us everything from Elvis Presley to some of the best whiskey around. Its capital city, Nashville, is a buzzing metropolitan area known for its delicious food scene and vibrant nightlife, and when visiting for a limited time, it can be difficult to know where to start. So, here are the top three things to do in this spirited state’s capital: 

History 

Built in 1859, the Tennessee State Capitol is a testament to the state’s rich history. The only state capitol to double as a mausoleum, it is purported to be haunted. Another historical location you won’t want to miss is The Hermitage, the historic home of President Andrew Jackson. Other historical homes open for tours include Belle Meade, which doubles as a winery, and Belmont Mansion. The Parthenon, a replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, is an art museum that is the crown jewel of the lush and green Centennial Park. And finally, a monument to the city’s 1996 bicentennial celebration, Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park is located in downtown Nashville and home to a collection of various monuments you won’t want to miss. 

Just a stone’s throw from the Bicentennial Mall is the Nashville Farmer’s Market, where visitors can find local produce, honey, jams, and jellies. The Nashville Farmer’s Market is also home to several restaurants: Bella Nashville Pizzeria serves fresh pizza with a Tennessee twist, Farmer’s Deli and Grill serves everyone’s favorite American classics, and Pink Door Cookies and Moose Head Kettle Corn are perfect to pick up sweet treats, while Social Beverages offers a selection of locally sourced fruit beverages- just what you’ll need to cool down after taking a stroll through the Bicentennial Mall in the Nashville heat. For something a little more refined, check out the Natchez Hills Winery Tasting Room, which overlooks both the park and State Capitol. Nashville is also famous for its southern cuisine, and there’s no better place to indulge than Arnold’s Country Kitchen, though Biscuit Love and The Southern Steak & Oyster will also do the trick. 

Entertainment 

The birthplace of country music icons such as Kitty Wells and home to dozens more, Nashville is famous for its music scene, and more specifically, its country music scene. Visitors can purchase tickets in advance for a variety of shows at the world-famous Ryman Auditorium, which was built in the late nineteenth century yet remains youthful and vibrant to this day. Visitors can also take a stroll down Broadway for a selection of live music and bars. On Lower Broadway, visitors will find Honky Tonk Highway, home to some of the best honky Tonks in the nation. Whiskey Bent Saloon is perfect for those seeking a wild night of drinking, while FGL House serves some of the best food. In daylight hours, there is the Country Music Hall of Fame and, to pick up a souvenir or two, the Ernest Tubb Record Shop, so named for country music legend Ernest Tubb.

And that about does it for Nashville, Tennessee. With so much to see, it can be difficult to squeeze everything onto an itinerary, but if that’s the case, southern hospitality dictates you’re always welcome to come again!