Nashville blends quirky charm with rich cultural depth, making it a playground for music lovers, foodies, and curious wanderers alike. While Honky Tonk Row buzzes with neon lights, live tunes, and beer in plastic cups, the real magic lies beyond Broadway. Dive into things to do in Nashville by discovering East Nashville’s indie scene, Germantown’s culinary gems, and 12 South’s stylish boutiques like Draper James. Step into music history at the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium, or bring the kids to the Nashville Zoo and SoundWaves waterpark.
Art lovers will find vibrant street murals, and food adventurers can chase legendary bites—like flaky biscuits at The Loveless Cafe or fiery heat from Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack. In every corner of the city, you’ll uncover stories, flavors, and sounds that feel both familiar and unexpected. Explore these fun things to do in Nashville and you’ll understand why this isn’t just a city—it’s a rhythm you carry with you.
Recommended 10 Best Things to Do in Kennebunkport Maine (You Won’t Believe #7!)
1. A Must-Do Tour of Grand Ole Opry
The Grand Ole Opry, Nashville’s legendary live radio show since 1925, is a must-see for any visitor exploring things to do in Nashville. Once housed in the Ryman Auditorium, it now resides northeast of downtown at the Grand Ole Opry House, where icons like Dolly Parton and Brad Paisley have performed. Take a daytime backstage tour (daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.) to explore its storied halls, see historic photos, and possibly stand on the famous stage. Post-show tours, available only on performance nights, offer access to unique dressing rooms and Studio A—where “Hee Haw” was filmed.
Tickets for daytime tours start at $45 for adults and $42 for kids aged 4–11. To join a post-show tour, you’ll need to purchase a concert ticket (starting around $40). Guides are engaging and full of fascinating anecdotes. For tour and show schedules, or to book tickets, visit the official Grand Ole Opry website.
2. Catch a Concert at the Iconic Ryman Auditorium
Steeped in 130 years of history, the Ryman Auditorium is a Nashville landmark and a must for fans exploring things to do in Nashville. Once home to the Grand Ole Opry, this former church now hosts legendary live performances in an intimate venue praised for its world-class acoustics. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., visitors can choose from self-guided or VIP tours, each offering insight into the Ryman’s unique role in music history.
Tour prices vary, but every experience includes fascinating stories, behind-the-scenes access, and a walk in the footsteps of musical icons. If you’re aiming to attend a concert, check the schedule in advance—big-name shows sell out fast. Seating is in wooden pews, and obstructed view tickets (due to support columns) are clearly labeled. Shows are unforgettable, but planning ahead ensures the best seats. For tour info and concert tickets, visit the official website.
3. Explore the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Located in the heart of downtown Nashville, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a must for fans exploring things to do in Nashville. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., this iconic museum features plaques honoring legends like Patsy Cline and Reba McEntire, interactive exhibits like “Sing Me Back Home,” and unforgettable artifacts such as Johnny Cash’s guitar and Elvis’s gold Cadillac. Don’t miss the stunning two-story wall of gold and platinum records.
For deeper insight, check the schedule for Saturday Songwriter Sessions at the Ford Theater. Enhance your visit with a tour of Historic RCA Studio B, 1.5 miles away, where over 35,000 hits were recorded. Admission is $29.95 for adults, $19.95 for kids aged 6–12, and free for children under 5. Advance booking is recommended due to timed entry. A top choice among things to do in Nashville, the museum draws fans and casual visitors alike. Visit www.countrymusichalloffame.org for details.
4. Experience Live Music & Honky-Tonk Vibes on Broadway, Nashville
No trip is complete without exploring the electric atmosphere of Broadway—one of the most iconic things to do in Nashville. Lined with neon-lit honky-tonks, Broadway offers nonstop live music from morning until the early hours, and it’s completely free to enjoy (just remember to tip the bands!). Whether you’re bar-hopping during the day or diving into the raucous nighttime crowds, each venue offers something unique.
Visit Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge or hidden gem Robert’s Western World, where $6 gets you the famous “Recession Special.” Many bars feature different music genres across multiple floors, and country stars even own some—keep your eyes open for surprise performances. The vibe shifts from laid-back strolls and daytime sipping to energetic, cowboy-booted crowds by night. Though there’s no official site or ticketing, each venue runs its own schedule, so hours vary. Among the most memorable things to discover in Nashville, Broadway delivers pure, unfiltered Music City magic.
5. Discover Musical Roots at the National Museum of African American Music
For those seeking culturally rich things to do in Nashville, the National Museum of African American Music is a standout. Located at the start of Lower Broadway, next to Assembly Food Hall and near top attractions like the Ryman and the Country Music Hall of Fame, this state-of-the-art museum honors the legacy of Black musicians across genres—from jazz and blues to gospel, R&B, and hip-hop.
Opened in 2021, it offers interactive exhibits, including “One Nation Under A Groove,” where visitors can mix R&B tracks in a sound booth after viewing artifacts from icons like Louis Armstrong and Michael Jackson. Guests receive an RFID bracelet to save favorite songs, which syncs with Spotify or Apple Music. Open Tuesday–Saturday (10 a.m.–5 p.m.) and Sunday–Monday (noon–5 p.m.), tickets cost $26.95 for adults and $22.95 for kids aged 5–17. For music lovers exploring fun things to do in Nashville, this immersive experience is a must. Visit www.nmaam.org for more details.
6. Savor Nashville’s Famous Spice at Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
Trying a hot chicken sandwich from Hattie B’s is a must for foodies exploring fun things to do in Nashville. While Prince’s holds the title of originator, Hattie B’s helped catapult this fiery dish into national fame with its perfect blend of heat and Southern flavour. With multiple locations across the city—including Midtown, downtown, the airport, and even Franklin—it’s easy to fit a visit into your itinerary. Expect lines at the popular Midtown spot, but off-peak visits (like mid-afternoon on weekdays) can help you avoid the crowd.
Menu favorites include crispy chicken sandwiches, creamy mac and cheese, and the fan-favorite banana pudding. Vegetarians aren’t left out either—sides like greens, slaw, and grits make a solid meal on their own. Prices and hours vary by location, so check ahead online. For a flavorful, unforgettable bite that defines best things to do in Nashville, Hattie B’s delivers every time. Visit www.hattieb.com for menus and hours.
7. Experience Legendary Live Music at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge
A staple among fun things to do in Nashville, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is a must-visit for live music lovers. Located on Broadway, this iconic bar has hosted stars from Willie Nelson to Loretta Lynn and continues to spotlight rising talent daily. With three floors of nonstop music, the vibe is energetic and often packed—but that’s part of the charm.
Open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 3 a.m., Tootsie’s has no cover charge, making it an easy addition to any night out. Drinks and food are available at varying prices, and you might recognize the venue from scenes in “A Coal Miner’s Daughter.” It’s also featured on many guided city tours. Whether you’re sipping a cold drink, hearing the next big country star, or just soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, Tootsie’s delivers a true taste of Music City. Visit www.tootsies.net for performance schedules and details.
8. Discover Rising Talent at Nashville’s Iconic Bluebird Cafe
Among the most unique things to do in Nashville, the Bluebird Cafe offers an intimate live music experience where many stars got their start—including Garth Brooks. Tucked away in a strip mall outside downtown, this 90-seat venue is famed for its nightly shows and “Shhh policy,” encouraging total silence during performances to spotlight the songwriters.
The Bluebird hosts two shows nightly, typically at 6 and 9 p.m., though times can vary—check www.bluebirdcafe.com for updates. Ticket prices depend on the artist and are available via advance online reservations (except Mondays, which are first come, first served). A small number of same-day tickets may be released, but it’s best to plan at least a month ahead. The cafe serves food and drinks, and merchandise like the popular “Shhh!” T-shirt is available. While you may not recognize the names on stage, the talent is exceptional, making it an unforgettable Music City experience.
9. Nashville’s Vibrant Street Art with a Self-Guided Mural Tour
One of the most colorful things to do in Nashville is embarking on a self-guided mural tour across the city. Accessible 24/7 and completely free, this outdoor gallery spans iconic neighborhoods like The Gulch, 12South, East Nashville, and Wedgewood-Houston. Popular photo spots include the famous “What Lifts You” angel wings in The Gulch and the “I Believe in Nashville” mural in 12South. Other highlights include the Dolly Parton mural and Dragon mural in East Nashville, the Cassette Tape mural in Wedgewood-Houston, and the Big Tickets mural downtown.
These murals not only celebrate the city’s creative spirit but also offer a fun way to explore diverse neighborhoods on foot. For a complete list, visit www.visitmusiccity.com. Prefer a guided experience? Joyride Tours and the Honky Tonk Party Express offer curated mural tours. Whether you’re snapping Instagram-worthy pics or admiring the art, this vibrant journey is a Nashville must-do.
10. Sip, Dine, and Discover at Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery
For a flavorful twist on things to do in Nashville, head to Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery. Located in a stylish space with speakeasy vibes, this distillery offers guided tours that explore the art and history of Tennessee whiskey-making. Guests 21+ can enjoy a tasting as part of the $25 tour, while non-drinkers and visitors aged 10–20 pay $20. Tours run Sunday–Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday–Saturday until 6 p.m. Beyond whiskey, the bar serves local beer, other spirits, and nonalcoholic drinks.
Their on-site restaurant features daily lunch, Sunday brunch, and a four-course supper club every Thursday. Don’t miss the gift shop for unique souvenirs. Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast or curious explorer, this experience is worth adding to your Nashville itinerary. Visit www.greenbrierdistillery.com for more info and reservations.
11. Stroll Through Seasonal Beauty at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens offers one of the most fun things to do in Nashville, featuring 55 acres of botanical gardens, a historic mansion, an arboretum, and an art museum. Open Tuesday–Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., general admission starts at $26 for adults and $19 for children. Seasonal highlights include spring tulips, fall pumpkins and mums, and a dazzling holiday lights display featuring over one million lights.
Don’t miss the charming “TRAINS!” exhibit—a miniature railway weaving through a garden wonderland, loved by visitors of all ages. Ideal for families, nature lovers, or wedding-goers, Cheekwood’s rotating exhibits make it a destination worth revisiting year-round. Ample parking is available, and ride-sharing is an easy alternative. For tickets, current exhibits, and seasonal events, visit www.cheekwood.org.
