Top 25 Attractions in Nashville, TN You Can’t Miss

Nashville serves as the capital of the state of Tennessee and is located along the banks of the Cumberland River. It has earned the moniker ‘Music City’ due to its rich and vibrant musical heritage, where numerous notable music venues can be found throughout the city.

Founded in 1779 and named after American Revolutionary War hero Francis Nash, the city experiences hot and humid summers alongside moderately cold winters, typically featuring only light snowfall. The downtown area is an engaging hub, making it an ideal place to explore the top attractions in Nashville.

1. Witness A Star Performance At The Ryman Auditorium

In the 1880s, local entrepreneur Thomas G. Ryman converted to Christianity after hearing the evangelist Reverend Sam Jones. Convinced of the need for a venue to host his sermons, Ryman constructed the tabernacle, completed in 1892, which became the largest building in the area. Over the years, the Ryman has hosted political rallies, local events, and entertainment productions, welcoming many entertainment legends, including Charlie Chaplin and Aretha Franklin. The venue is adorned with numerous accolades, and visiting is highly encouraged when in Nashville.

2. Pretend You Are In Ancient Greece

The Parthenon is a life-sized replica of the original structure and statue located in Greece. It features a 42-foot tall statue of Athena, which serves as the central attraction of this remarkable site. Built in 1897 for Tennessee’s Centennial Exposition, the Parthenon serves as a tribute to classical architecture. Today, it functions as an art museum, showcasing 63 paintings by 19th and 20th-century American artists.

3. Tour The Belle Meade Plantation

The Belle Meade Plantation is rich in history, providing both enjoyable and educational tour experiences. Visitors commence their journey with a guided tour of the Greek Revival mansion, learning about its history and the surrounding area. Following that, guests can explore various structures including the dairy, carriage house, and gardens. After the tour, guests may visit the onsite winery for complimentary wine tastings. For those seeking a meal, Harding House offers dining options for lunch or dinner.

4. Visit President Andrew Jackson’s Home

Andrew Jackson served as the 7th President of the United States from 1829 to 1837 and was widely admired for his exceptional leadership skills. A visit to Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage provides insight into his remarkable life, including personal tragedies he experienced. Guests can explore the estate, farm, and the elegant mansion where he resided. The site also features the final resting place of Andrew and his wife, Rachel, located in a tomb where they rest together.

5. Explore The Beautiful Grounds Of Centennial Park

Centennial Park is situated just a few miles from downtown Nashville, spanning 132 acres and previously serving as farmland. The park features a one-mile walking trail ideal for leisurely strolls. A picturesque lake, known as Lake Watauga, offers a serene setting for a delightful picnic. Each year, many visitors bring their dogs, who can utilize the designated dog park. Additional attractions include an arts activity center and a museum.

6. Ignite Your Passion For Science At Adventure Science Center

Established in 1945, the Adventure Science Center in Nashville aims to engage individuals in the world of science. Spanning 44,000 square feet, it features nearly 175 hands-on, interactive exhibits focused on topics such as physics, biology, perception, aerodynamics, and earth science. The onsite planetarium is equipped with the latest technology, ensuring an exciting educational experience for visitors.

7. Get Close To The Animals At Nashville Zoo

The Nashville Zoo encompasses 200 acres, providing an enjoyable experience for both children and adults. Beyond observing the animals, guests can engage in numerous interactive activities, including a jungle gym that allows participants to mimic the movements of various animals. Close encounters with meerkats provide a unique perspective of their world, while exhibits such as the gibbon islands draw visitors into the park.

8. Enjoy The Frist Art Museum

Art enthusiasts will find a haven at the Frist Art Museum, featuring 24,000 square feet of gallery space that exhibits exceptional works from local, national, and international artists. Open seven days a week, individuals under 18 enjoy free admission. The museum is home to both permanent and temporary exhibitions, providing fresh experiences for returning visitors.

9. Take Some Quiet Time In The Cheekwood Botanical Gardens

Cheekwood Botanical Gardens offers a magnificent setting for an afternoon of relaxation amidst beautifully maintained lawns and vibrant floral displays. Featuring eleven distinct display gardens, each offers a unique variety of blossoms. Visitors can attend the Cheekwood in Bloom festival in spring, featuring over 100,000 blooming tulips simultaneously. During the holiday season, the gardens transform into a festive wonderland complete with Christmas trees, trains, live reindeer, and of course, Santa.

10. Watch The Best Of The Best At The Bridgestone Arena

Since 1996, Bridgestone Arena has hosted many of the biggest names in the music industry, including Adele, Rihanna, and Madonna, drawing over 16 million attendees. The venue accommodates 20,000 for music events, while when the Nashville Predators play, it can hold 17,113 enthusiastic fans. Initially known as Nashville Arena, the venue underwent several ownership changes before Bridgestone acquired naming rights through a financial agreement.

11. Learn The History Of The State

The Tennessee State Museum, founded in 1937, narrates the state’s rich history. It encompasses 60,000 square feet dedicated to permanent exhibits and an additional 10,000 for temporary displays. The museum’s exhibits cover topics from pre-colonization through the 20th century, including insights into President Andrew Jackson and the American Civil War. Its extensive collection of uniforms, weapons, and flags from the Civil War is among the largest in the United States.

12. Visit The State Capitol

The Tennessee State Capitol building is recognized as one of the oldest operational capitols in the nation. Designed in the Greek Revival style, the building continues to function as a government facility. Visitors can take guided tours to view significant chambers, the House of Representatives, and the historic state library. Opened in 1859 and designed by renowned architect William Strickland, the building’s construction was marked by his untimely passing, and he is interred nearby.

13. Soak Up The Atmosphere Of The Tennessee Titans

Nashville’s passion for football ignites when the Tennessee Titans play at Nissan Stadium, creating an electric atmosphere throughout the city. Competing in the NFL, the Titans have a proud history, having reached the playoffs on 21 occasions. Originally called the Houston Oilers, the team relocated to Tennessee in 1997, went through a name change to the Tennessee Oilers, and eventually adopted the Titans moniker a few years later. The stadium accommodates 69,000 fans, contributing to a vibrant game day experience.

14. Take A Tour Of Belmont Mansion

Constructed between 1849 and 1853, Belmont Mansion is an exquisite example of Italianate Villa architecture, encompassing 19,000 square feet. Initially serving as the summer retreat for local socialite Adelicia Acklen, the mansion has also functioned as a headquarters for the Union army and a ladies’ college. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the mansion operates as a museum, showcasing its rich history.

15. Take A Walk In The Park

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park in Nashville offers a peaceful venue for introspection and leisurely walks. As visitors stroll through the park, they will encounter various informative exhibits detailing Tennessee’s history. Features include a 200-foot granite map of the state, a 95 bell carillon, a memorial to World War II, the Pathway of History, and the Rivers of Tennessee Fountains. The park also hosts numerous free community events each year, including the highlight—the Tennessee History Festival held in the fall.

16. Understand The Beginnings Of Nashville At Fort Nashborough

Fort Nashborough marks the genesis of Nashville. Built in 1779 as a stockade to protect settlers from wildlife and Native American threats, the structure originally spanned two acres. The fort was reconstructed in the 1930s using reclaimed telegraph poles, preserving its historical significance while providing an engaging narrative about the city’s origins. Notably, the purchase agreement for the fort predated the outbreak of the American Revolution by just one month.

17. See The European Cars At Lane Motor Museum

Located on the grounds of the former Sunbeam Bakery, the Lane Motor Museum retained many original characteristics from its previous life. Opened in 2002 by Jeff Lane, an automobile enthusiast, the museum houses a vast collection of primarily European cars—recognized as the largest such collection in the United States. Many vehicles in the showroom are operational and in pristine condition, while others exhibit natural aging for educational purposes.

18. Watch A Show At Nashville Municipal Auditorium

Nashville Municipal Auditorium features a diverse program of indoor sports and musical events, making it an exciting destination for attendees. Constructed in 1962, the auditorium has maintained its popularity over the decades. Another significant aspect is the Musicians’ Hall of Fame Museum, which highlights all music genres since the inception of recorded music. Numerous renowned musicians, including Keith Richards and the late Roy Orbison, have been inducted into this prestigious establishment.

19. Enjoy The Warner Parks

Located just nine miles from downtown Nashville, the Percy Warner and Edwin Warner Parks span a combined 3,180 acres, ranking among the largest municipal parks in the country. Percy Warner Park offers an extensive network of hiking trails and 10 miles of equestrian paths for outdoor enthusiasts. Families can enjoy picnic shelters designed to accommodate larger groups. Additionally, the parks feature two golf courses: Percy Warner Golf Course and Harpeth Hills Golf Course.

20. Relax At Percy Priest Lake

Completed in 1968, Percy Priest Lake stretches 42 miles and encompasses 14,000 acres. It offers a range of recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, camping, picnicking, horseback riding, and sailing. Accommodations vary from basic facilities on islands to fully developed campsites. To fish, visitors need to possess a Tennessee State Fishing License, and various species such as bass, sunfish, catfish, bluegill, and trout are available for angling.

21. Walk The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

The Cumberland River in Nashville has long been crossed by various bridges, yet the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge remained unused for many years. Reopened in 2003, it spans 960 meters, making it one of the longest pedestrian bridges globally. The recent renovation added a dedicated, 15-foot-wide bike lane. The bridge is especially stunning at night, as it is dramatically illuminated, providing a striking view for miles around.

22. Listen To Some Bluegrass At Station Inn

The Station Inn in Nashville has gained a loyal following since its establishment in 1974. Initially opened by six bluegrass musicians, it quickly became a popular spot for musical performances. In 1981, new ownership introduced a rotating lineup of performers, transforming the inn into a vibrant venue. Many famous bluegrass artists have made surprise appearances, solidifying its iconic status. A visit to the Station Inn is essential for any bluegrass aficionado.

23. Take The Family To The Agricultural Museum

Located within the Ellington Agricultural Center, the Tennessee Agricultural Museum features an impressive collection of farming artifacts from the 19th and 20th centuries, all housed in a historic plantation barn. Visitors can explore a blacksmith shop, various wagons, and a Jumbo steam engine. After touring the museum, one can wander through the surrounding farmhouse, gardens, and nature trails.

24. Reflect In The Mount Olivet Cemetery

Spanning 206 acres, Mount Olivet Cemetery was opened in 1856 and serves as the final resting place for many prominent political and business figures. In the aftermath of the American Civil War, local women sought a burial site for the fallen soldiers; thus, the Confederate Circle was established within the cemetery. Open during daylight hours, it provides a serene environment for reflection and contemplation.

25. Have Fun At Robert’s Western World

Robert’s Western World has hosted many of the top names in country music, continuing to draw large crowds today. A visit offers the chance to enjoy cold beverages, delicious grilled fare, and vibrant live performances. For those wishing to take a piece of Nashville home, a gift shop is available on the premises. Currently owned by renowned musician Jesse Lee Jones, lead singer of Brazibilly, Robert’s is a must-visit destination.