Nashville has been my home since 2012, and over the years, I’ve come to know this city like the back of my hand. Whether it’s driving family around when they visit or checking out every single bar on Broadway, I’ve seen all the sides of Nashville—and let me tell you, there’s so much more to this city than the neon lights and honky-tonks.
So, if you're looking for a local's take on the best spots to visit, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into some of the top attractions that are truly worth your time.
1. Musicians Hall of Fame
You’ve heard of the artists. But what about the musicians behind those iconic records? That’s the Musicians Hall of Fame for you—a museum that finally puts the spotlight on the unsung heroes of music.
It’s not just about country music either; musicians from all genres are celebrated here. And hey, the Grammy Museum Gallery inside is interactive, so if you’re curious about how those Grammy winners are chosen, you can dive right in and learn all about it.
2. Grand Ole Opry
If you haven’t been to the Grand Ole Opry yet, you’re in for a treat. The pew-style seating gives it this cozy, old-time church vibe that just adds to the experience.
And speaking of experiences, the backstage tours are absolutely worth it. You’ll see dressing rooms where legends prepped for their big performances, and if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of today’s country stars coming through the artist entrance. It's basically like a behind-the-scenes pass to country music history.
3. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
The Country Music Hall of Fame is a bit of a beast—in the best way possible. With nearly 200,000 sound recordings and 500,000 photos, it’s like walking through the entire history of country music.
One of the coolest spots inside? The Taylor Swift Education Center.
It’s not just for kids either; the interactive exhibits will keep you busy no matter your age. And don’t forget to check out Hatch Show Print. This isn’t just any old print shop—these guys have been making concert posters since before your grandparents were born.
4. Ryman Auditorium
Ah, the Ryman. You might know it as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” but did you know it wasn’t even built for concerts? It started as a religious venue and later became home to the Grand Ole Opry.
Over the years, it’s hosted everyone from Katharine Hepburn to Bob Dylan, and today you’ll catch performances from rock, pop, and even hip-hop artists. It’s more than just a concert venue—it’s a cultural icon that still holds that old-school charm.
5. The Parthenon
Yeah, Nashville’s got a full-scale replica of the Parthenon. No big deal, right? Well, this one’s got a 42-foot statue of Athena inside, and let’s just say it’s as impressive as it sounds.
Beyond the Greek mythology, it also doubles as an art gallery with American paintings from the 19th and 20th centuries. It's one of those spots where you can take a break from the city hustle and dive into some art and history.
6. Andrew Jackson's Hermitage
History buffs, this one’s for you. The Hermitage isn’t just a mansion—it was a 1,000-acre plantation where Andrew Jackson once lived.
Walking through the mansion and gardens, you can practically feel the history. The guided tours give you a detailed look into Jackson’s life and the significance of the plantation, and for anyone curious about presidential history, it’s a must-visit.
7. Johnny Cash Museum
Ever wanted to step into Johnny Cash’s world? This museum has the largest collection of Johnny Cash artifacts in the world, and it doesn’t disappoint. From his guitars to his handwritten lyrics, it’s all here.
The interactive exhibits take you deep into his music and career. Bonus: It’s right next to Johnny Cash’s Bar & BBQ, so you can grab some Southern eats after soaking in all that music history.
8. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
Cheekwood is one of those places where you can easily lose track of time—in a good way. With 55 acres of gardens, including a Japanese garden and a boxwood maze, it’s a botanical dream. The Georgian-style mansion itself is open for tours, and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch one of the seasonal festivals or art exhibitions that Cheekwood is known for.
Nashville’s got plenty to offer, and if you’re anything like me, you’ll find that each of these attractions brings something special to the table. I’ve had the privilege of seeing it all up close—whether it's through my own explorations or hearing stories passed down from my late father-in-law, Joe Chambers, who was deep in the Nashville music scene. And trust me, there’s a lot more to discover. What are you most excited to check out?