Nashville, Tennessee: Don't Just Hit the Main Tourist Sites When You Visit Music City
- anywayyoutravel
- Aug 9
- 7 min read
Updated: Aug 13
If you’re planning a trip to Nashville, Tennessee, you’re in for a lively mix of music, history, and Southern charm. Known as Music City, this vibrant town offers legendary attractions, hidden gems, and flavors you won’t forget.
As a first observation, I have to say, to be honest, one of the things that struck us most about our visit was how busy it was on Broadway, or Honky Tonk Highway. I've been to Times Square in NYC, and I was shocked at how similar the crowds were. So, make sure you pack your patience and good humor!!
Before you hit the streets, here are a few Pro-Tips to keep in mind:
Pro Tips for Visiting Nashville
Plan ahead for parking – Downtown rates can be steep, so consider rideshare or the free WeGo Star bus.
Pack comfortable shoes – You’ll be walking plenty, especially on Broadway and through museums.
Book tickets early – The Grand Ole Opry, Ryman tours, and popular concerts sell out quickly.
Budget for music, food, and souvenirs – Nashville will tempt you at every turn.
Okay, let's get started with our trip through Nashville!
Grand Ole Opry – Country Music’s Crown Jewel
The heart of country music beats at the Grand Ole Opry, a stage that's been captivating audiences since 1925. What began as a humble radio broadcast grew into a world-famous institution where legends like Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks, and Hank Williams have
performed. Attending a live Opry show is an unforgettable experience, blending the
tradition of veteran stars with the excitement of fresh talent. And if you take a backstage tour, (Costs around $46) you’ll get to see the dressing rooms, peek behind the curtain, and even stand in the legendary six-foot wooden circle where history has been made. Now that you’ve read about the crown jewel, let's step into the Opry’s former home for another piece of Nashville magic.
Ryman Auditorium – The Mother Church of Country Music
When you head to downtown Nashville, you'll find the Ryman Auditorium, famously known as The Mother Church of Country Music. Built in 1891, this stunning venue started as a tabernacle before becoming
the Opry’s home from 1943 to 1974. The Ryman’s warm wooden pews and incredible acoustics make every performance feel intimate. Legends from Elvis Presley to Bruce Springsteen have stood on this stage, and even if you’re not there for a concert, the self-guided tour lets you walk the same boards as the greats. From the quiet reverence of the Ryman, we head straight into the bustling, neon-lit energy of Nashville’s most famous street.
Honky Tonk Highway – Where Music Never Sleeps
Broadway’s Honky Tonk Highway is a feast for the senses, with live music pouring out of open doors from morning until the early hours of the next day. Every bar has its own
personality, but Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge—with its unmistakable orchid colored facade—stands out as a must-visit. Just steps away, the Johnny Cash Museum offers an intimate look at the Man in Black’s life, while the street itself boasts superstar-owned bars like Blake Shelton’s Ole Red, Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row, Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Rooftop Bar, and Miranda Lambert’s Casa Rosa. The best part? There are no cover charges—just pure, nonstop music...just make sure you don't take up a table unless you get a drink...but standing is free! Once you’ve soaked in the sounds of Broadway, it’s time to explore some of Nashville’s most celebrated tributes to its musical legends.
Nashville Walk of Fame & Country Music Hall of Fame
The Music City Walk of Fame pays homage to icons from Dolly Parton to Jimi Hendrix with
bronze stars embedded in the sidewalk. I really enjoyed walking among the placards looking for my favorite singers. Across the street, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum offers a deep dive into the genre’s history with dazzling exhibits of rhinestone suits, vintage instruments, and interactive displays. For the devoted country music fan, it really is a must see! Tickets were $32 per adult when we were there.. BUT, if you’re looking for a similar experience that's less costly, here’s a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered.
Legends of Country Music Museum – Budget-Friendly History
The Legends of Country Music Museum offers a budget-friendly alternative to the Country Music Hall of Fame with tickets at just $12! For that $12 you get a TON!
Though smaller than the Hall of Fame, it’s filled with rare photographs, signed records, outfits, instruments, and personal stories that bring country music’s past to life. They also feature a huge collection of Willie Nelson's personal items AND somethings REALLY special from Hank Williams, Jr.!
The staff, often musicians themselves, are happy to share anecdotes and answer questions, adding a personal touch to your visit. From there, we move from music to television nostalgia...and it's literally next door!
Cooter’s Dukes of Hazzard Museum – Free Fun
For fans of classic TV series "The Dukes of Hazzard", Cooter’s Dukes of Hazzard Museum is
pure fun—and it’s FREE! It is literally right next door to the Legends of Country Music Museum...and BOTH are just a mile or so from the Grand Ole Opry!
The Dukes of Hazzard Museum is owned and operated by Ben Jones, who played Cooter on the show, this quirky stop features costumes, props, and even the famous General Lee car. This will take you back to a simpler time and give you a TON of smiles! It's a lighthearted detour before diving back into the deep history of Tennessee.
Tennessee State Museum – Free and Fascinating
The Tennessee State Museum offers a sweeping look at the state’s history, from prehistoric times to the present day. It opened in its current location in 2018, the museum’s free
admission and expansive galleries make it a must-visit for history lovers. Exhibits explore Tennessee’s role in the Civil War, the frontier era, and pivotal moments in civil rights, while also showcasing Native American artifacts, military history, and decorative arts. As you walk through the museum, you really walking through Visitors centuries of change, seeing everything from frontier tools to historic uniforms and rare documents.
And beyond its political and cultural history, Tennessee’s greatest legacy may be its music. The Museum celebrats the soulful blues that were born Memphis. It also looks at the gospel roots of the Smoky Mountains. Finally, there's a section dedicated to the world-famous country sounds of Nashville. This is a must see if you really want gain a deeper understanding of the people and state of Tennessee!
Now that you've explored the past, it’s time to taste the present.
Nashville Farmers Market – Local Flavor
The Nashville Farmers Market is open year-round and it's a bustling hub of fresh produce, local crafts, and international cuisine. Whether you’re craving southern barbecue, Ethiopian fare, or a quick coffee, this market is a perfect
lunch stop between attractions.
After your meal, head outside and take in the colors and scents of fresh, Tennessee grown fruits and vegetables. You'll find everything from fresh vegetables, to mellons of all kinds, to honey and other produce. If you're going to be in Nashville for a week and you're in a vacation rental, this is the place to get your produce and save some money by not eating out every night.
And speaking of attractions, one of Nashville’s most iconic buildings is just a short walk away.
Tennessee State Capitol – Historic Landmark
Not a lot of people put state Capitols and their travel itenerary, but the The Tennessee State Capitol really is a cool place to enjoy and explore. It stands proudly on a hill overlooking downtown. Completed in 1859, it's one of the oldest working capitols in the country.
Now, be forewarned, if you walk to the capitol from the area of ample parking area around the Farmers Market and the Tennessee State Museum, you will be encountering a TON of steps! But you can go at your own pace. It's really a beautiful walk.
There are free guided tours that show you its rich political history and amazing Greek Revival architecture. But, don't miss wondering around the grounds. You'll find all kinds of historic monuments and you'll get some of the best views of the Nashville skyline you can find. We really enjoyed wondering around the capitol...and we're sure you will too. Now, from classic American politics, we now travel across the ocean—well, at least in spirit.
The Parthenon – A Greek Icon in the South
In the heart of Centennial Park, Nashville's Parthenon is a full-scale, exact replica of the ancient Greek masterpiece. This is really quite an amazing site to see. There is a fee for going in, but it really is well worth it.
It was built for the 1897 Tennessee Centennial Exposition, and it houses a towering 42-foot statue of Athena, she was the Greek goddess of wisdom, war, and crafts. The statue is covered in solid gold leaf. After you visit the Parthenon, check out the beautiful Centennial Park. It's perfect for a peaceful walk after a day of sightseeing...or as a great place for a picnic. . And for our final stop, we head east of downtown to one of the most historically significant homes in the South.
The Hermitage – Home of President Andrew Jackson
The Hermitage, home of President Andrew Jackson, is a beautifully preserved estate that
tells the story of both the president and the people who lived and worked there. Before the grand mansion was built, Jackson lived in a modest log cabin, which still stands today. One of the most interesting figures at The Hermitage is “Uncle Alfred,” an enslaved man who became Jackson’s trusted right-hand and remained on the property long after emancipation. Walking the grounds, you’ll find a mix of beauty, history, and reflection—making The Hermitage a fitting conclusion to any Nashville adventure.
Final Reflections on Our Trip to Nashville
This was our frist trip to Music City and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Be willing to get out and walk. Many of the iconic sites are within a few blocks of each other. However, to reach the Grand Ole Opry, Cooter's Dukes of Hazzard Museum, and the Legends of Counrty Music Museum, you'll have to take a drive to the northeast side of town and the Parthenon is to the west. There are a ton of great restaurants from which to choose....so enjoy.
We hope you have a great time during your visit...we sure did. So, don't hesitate to ask us any questions and we'll do our best to share our insight!!
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