1. Grand Ole Opry – It’s simply a must. After all, your friends and family from out of town will ask you if they can go when they come to visit. This American icon has been showcasing country music for 90 years putting country legends and newcomers on the stage. This summer features shows from a range of performers, including Hunter Hayes and Rascal Flatts (June 23) to Carrie Underwood (July 24-25). Visit the website for a full slate of upcoming performances and tour information.
2. The Parthenon – Located in Centennial Park, the Parthenon was built for Tennessee’s 1987 Centennial Exposition. Now, the replica of the original piece in Athens is the home for the city’s art museum. The Parthenon is open Tuesday-Saturday from 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Sundays from 12:30 – 4:30 p.m. and is closed on Mondays. Admission is just $4 for Children and Seniors and $6 for Adults.
3. The District – In the heart of the city, the District is a very popular and active place for live music, restaurants, bars and shops. Check out the largest Food and Drink Festival, the Taste of Music City Festival on June 20 to gain a full experience of the District! Check out the website for more information about the vendors and other events scheduled.
4. Country Music Hall of Fame – Dubbed the “Smithsonian of country music,” the Country Music Hall of Fame has an abundance of exhibits happening right now, covering newer country artists like Luke Bryan to legendary artists like Johnny Cash and Bob Dylan. The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and also hosts concerts and autograph signings, so be sure to check out the latest calendar on their site.
5. The Bluebird Cafe – We’re sure that you’ve already heard about the Bluebird by living in Nashville, but it’s truly a unique experience that you can’t pass up. It offers performances from both up-and-coming songwriters and artists who are already on the charts. With multiple concerts happening nearly every night, take a peek at the calendar online and be sure get your tickets early as there may be lines for those without tickets.
6. Music Row – One of the easier must-see things you can check off your list of to-dos living in Nashville, Music Row is home to some of the studios that produced iconic songs that we all still know today, including some of Elvis’ most famous tunes. There are now numerous record labels and other businesses related to the music industry housed along Music Row, so take a quick drive from your house and experience the history of your city.
7. Belmont Mansion – Go take a tour of “One of the most elaborate antebellum homes in the South,” the Belmont Mansion. With 36 rooms and 19,000 square feet, the house once included an art gallery, bowling alley and zoo. Admission ranges from $3-$12 and tours are given Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and 1 – 4 p.m. Sundays.
8. Tennessee State Capitol – Designed by the famous architect William Strickland, the Tennessee State Capitol took 14 years to construct and was completed in 1859. Admission is Free and guided tours are offered Monday through Friday at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m.
9. Shelby Bottoms Greenway and Nature Park – If you want to head outside, there are plenty of paved and wooded trails at Shelby Bottoms. Go for a walk, run or bike ride while looking out over the Cumberland River and enjoying the wildlife. The nature center is open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Wednesday and Friday from 12:00 - 4:00 p.m. and is closed Sundays and Mondays. It’s one of the favorites of Donelson Air , so maybe we’ll see you there!
10. Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art – The 55-acre botanical garden and art museum offers breathtaking scenery and sights. You’ll escape with the reflection pool, Japanese garden and nature sanctuary. Hours are Tuesday - Sunday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Thursdays in June and July the hours are extended until 10:00 p.m., and the first Fridays from July - October until 9:00 p.m.