Do you love country music, cool coffee shops and brunch spots, vibrant nightlife, incredible live music, trendy neighborhoods, fascinating history, and southern charm? I know that seems like a super random list, but trust me—somehow, the city of Nashville pulls these unique elements together in a fun and effortless way that just “makes sense” for Nashville!
As someone who spends a lot of time traveling, I’m going to start this post with a bold claim: Nashville, TN, is one of my favorite cities in the United States (and it has been for some time now!). As a country music fan, I grew up visiting Nashville with my family and fell in love with this city’s fun atmosphere. Now that I have family living in Nashville, I’m fortunate to visit Music City often. At this point, I’ve been to Nashville five times in the past five years!
That said… I would consider myself a reliable source when it comes to recommending the “best of the best” in Nashville. Below, I’ve rounded up a list of the most popular tourist attractions in Nashville for first-timers (plus some of my favorite hidden gems!) to help you plan the perfect trip to Nashville. I’ll also provide recommendations on where to eat and stay, and answer common questions about planning a trip to Nashville.
So, are you ready to plan an unforgettable trip to Music City with the help of a frequent visitor and lover of all things Nashville? If so, grab your boots, and let’s go, y’all!
Disclosure: Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links, meaning that I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep the content on my website free for you to enjoy!
In a Hurry? Book These Tours & Experiences for an Incredible Trip to Nashville
Before I share all my recommendations for the top things to do in Nashville, here are the top tours I recommend to experience the city’s “best of the best” during a first trip to Nashville. If you don’t have enough time to read this entire post but don’t want to miss out on the fun… don’t skip these experiences!
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Nashville is nicknamed “Music City” for a reason… its musical roots run deep!
Learn all about the city’s music history during a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, which (in my opinion!) is a must-do activity on your first trip to Nashville. I’ve been to this museum a handful of times and always learn something new. Don’t miss the Hall of Fame Rotunda!
Grand Ole Opry
If you love country music, you have to attend a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Each interactive show features a combination of current country music stars, iconic legends, and up-and-coming artists. This will definitely be a highlight of your trip to Nashville… trust me! It’s always a highlight of my trips.
Grand Ole Opry Backstage Tour
The Grand Ole Opry Backstage Tour is my favorite tour in all of Nashville (shhh… don’t tell the others!). This one-hour tour takes you into all the dressing rooms and onto the biggest stage in country music… all while learning all about the history of the Opry and its biggest stars along the way. My husband and I loved this tour and recommend it to everyone visiting Nashville for the first time. I can’t believe how much information was packed into the one hour!
Nashville Murals Tour
Nashville is filled with colorful murals in popular neighborhoods, like 12 South and The Gulch. Naturally, snapping a photo in front of Nashville’s murals should be on your bucket list!
Guided mural tours, like this Street Art & Instagram Golf Tour and Nashville Murals and Mimosas Tour, include transportation to and from the most famous murals, allowing you to explore many of the city’s most popular neighborhoods while capturing photos (and memories!) along the way. I’ve always done a self-guided mural tour, but I personally think the Nashville Murals and Mimosas Tour would be super fun for a girls’ trip or bachelorette party!
Civil War History Tour: The Battle of Franklin
Would you consider yourself a history buff? If so, I highly recommend spending some time in Franklin (a 20–30 minute drive from Nashville) to explore the city’s deep Civil War roots.
This Civil War History Tour: The Battle of Franklin includes stops at the Carter, Carnton, and Lotz House — all important sites during the Battle of Franklin — with admissions costs covered and knowledgeable guides at each location to share the history of each historic spot with you!
Nashville Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour
Looking for a quick and easy way to see the best of Nashville in a day or two?
This Nashville Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour stops at some of Nashville’s most iconic attractions, including Centennial Park, Belmont Mansion, The Gulch, Broadway Street, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and the Ryman Auditorium, so you can stop and stay as long as you’d like at whichever spots interest you most (without the hassle of finding a parking spot!). We had some friends do this tour on their recent trip to Nashville, and they had a great time!
Tips for Visiting Nashville from a Frequent Visitor
How long should I spend in Nashville?
There is so much to see and do in Nashville (you’ll see just how much below!). My honest opinion is that Nashville is too big to squeeze into a weekend trip (even a long weekend!).
I’d recommend spending 4–5 days in Nashville if you want to hit the major tourist attractions, like the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and Broadway Street, but better yet, I would plan to spend 6–7 days in Nashville if you’d like to explore the city’s parks and neighborhoods at a slower pace spend a day in Franklin.
What is the best way to get around Nashville?
Trust me — the best way to get around Nashville is by car. Nashville has a public bus system, but it is not widely used by tourists, and many of the city’s top attractions are spread out, making public transit inconvenient to use.
Although Nashville has many walkable neighborhoods, like Broadway Street, The Gulch, and 12 South (all great places to stay during your trip to Nashville!), if you’re planning on exploring sites throughout (and beyond) the city, you will need a vehicle.
When is the best time to visit Nashville?
Spring (April and May) and fall (September and October) are the best times to visit Nashville. During these months, the weather is generally mild (unlike the sweltering hot summers), and there aren’t quite as many tourists as during the peak travel season (June through August), which brings down the cost of flights and hotels.
I’ve been to Nashville in spring, summer, and fall, and personally, fall is my favorite time to visit Nashville (the foliage is gorgeous!). I have not been to Nashville in the winter, but I really think Nashville is a “summer” city — I feel like many of its attractions are best enjoyed in warm weather! Summer is a fun time to visit (especially during CMA Fest!), but it is hot, so be prepared for humidity.
Iconic Neighborhoods to Explore in Nashville
12 South
12 South is one of the most adorable neighborhoods in Nashville, filled with charming boutiques, trendy restaurants, and colorful murals. Though it’s become very touristy recently, it is still a fun place to explore!
There are tons of fun things to do in 12 South Nashville, but a few places you can’t miss (in my opinion!) include grabbing coffee and breakfast at Frothy Monkey or Ladybird Taco, enjoying ice cream at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams (the best ice cream ever!), shopping at Draper James, taking photos in front of the “Nashville Looks Good on You” and “Looking Pretty, Music City” murals (12 South is home to many of the best murals in Nashville!).
Tip by Brit: Take a peek at my guide to 12 South for a comprehensive overview of where to eat, shop, stay & play in this charming Nashville neighborhood!
Downtown Nashville
Downtown Nashville encompasses many of Nashville’s top attractions, including the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum and the Ryman Auditorium. However, most people flock to Downtown Nashville to experience the bars and nightlife on Lower Broadway Street — what has earned Nashville the nickname “Nashvegas!”
Broadway is definitely an experience you can’t miss, especially during your first trip to Nashville. If you have time, I recommend going during the day and at night, because the street has a totally different vibe at different times. During the day, you’ll find families and tourists dining and listening to live music, but at night, it’s a wild place to be!
I’ve been to several bars on Broadway, but the places I would return to (or have been to more than once!), including Pushing Daisies for craft cocktails, Category 10 for live music and line dancing, and Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Rooftop Bar for the rooftop bar and views (especially during the daytime). I’ve also heard Morgan Wallen’s This Bar & Tennessee Kitchen is great, but I haven’t had the chance to stop in!
Tip by Brit: Nashville has a beautiful skyline, so crossing the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge at sunset to admire the views and snap a photo is a must-do. The bridge crossing is just a short walk from Broadway Street, so it’s easy to reach before a night on the town. The bridge crosses the Cumberland River and connects to Nissan Stadium, where the Titans play!
The Gulch
The Gulch is technically a neighborhood within Downtown Nashville, but it has a completely different vibe from Broadway. The Gulch is filled with trendy brunch spots and coffee shops, local boutiques, and murals, making it a great place to visit during a trip to Nashville (especially for a girls’ trip or bachelorette party).
I recommend spending an early(ish) morning in The Gulch, which is the perfect amount of time to stop in for brunch at Milk & Honey or Biscuit Love, pop into some of the shops and boutiques, and snap a photo in front of some of Nashville’s most iconic murals, including the “What Lifts You” Wings and Hear This Nashville — all before these spots get packed by late morning!
Tip by Brit: Want to see (and eat) the best of The Gulch? Consider booking this three-hour The Gulch Walking & Food Tasting Tour, which includes 4–5 tastings at popular restaurants in The Gulch and fun facts about Nashville from a local guide. Full disclosure, I’ve never done this tour, but I think it would be a great way to experience The Gulch for a first-time trip to Nashville!
East Nashville
Compared to tourist hotspots in Nashville, like Broadway Street, 12 South, and The Gulch, East Nashville has a much more laid-back, “local” vibe and is known for its creative atmosphere, independent shops, and incredible dining scene.
I end up spending a lot of time in East Nashville during my trips because it’s such a great spot to find places to eat and drink! Grab a coffee at Flora + Fauna Cafe, dinner and drinks at The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden, and late-night drinks at Urban Cowboy Public House. East Nashville is also home to some of the best murals in Nashville, like the “What Lifts You – Hot Air Balloon.” And if you’re a reader (like me!), stop at The Bookshop to pick up a new book to read on your trip!
Franklin
Franklin isn’t technically a neighborhood in Nashville — it’s actually a charming Southern city about 20–30 minutes south of Music City — but I think a vacation to Nashville is incomplete without taking a day trip to Franklin, which is why I’m including it on this list!
During a day in Franklin, dive into the city’s Civil War history at Carnton and Carter House (I’ll share more about these historic sites below!), shop on Main Street and at The Factory at Franklin, and eat and drink your way through the city at some of my favorite spots, like Hank’s Coffee Station for coffee, Perenn for brunch, and Mojo’s Tacos for lunch or dinner. You can read my full guide full guide to Franklin to get more ideas for how to spend a day in the city!
Fun Things to Do in Nashville for Country Music Lovers
Grand Ole Opry
Attending a show at the Grand Ole Opry is a must during a trip to Nashville. In fact, watching a show at the Opry is the number one activity I would recommend during a trip to Nashville… and believe me, there are a lot of options to choose from!
The Grand Ole Opry is the longest-running radio show in country music and is known as the “home” of country music. The broadcast began in the 1920s and has been broadcast live every Saturday night since (the show has persevered through a couple of wars, a depression, and even a pandemic… isn’t that crazy?). It’s a living piece of country music history!
At this point, I’ve been to two shows at the Grand Ole Opry, and both were spectacular! Check the calendar to see which country legends and up-and-coming artists will be performing during your trip to Nashville, and be sure to snag your tickets to the show in advance.
Tip by Brit: The Grand Ole Opry gift shop has incredible merchandise and is one of my favorite spots to shop for branded clothes and souvenirs in Nashville. However, the shop is packed after shows, so if you can, I recommend coming back to shop another morning (like after your Grand Ole Opry Backstage Tour!) for more space to shop and a less picked-over inventory.
Grand Ole Opry Backstage Tour
As I’ve mentioned, I’ve been to Nashville almost ten times at this point, and one of my very favorite things I’ve ever done in Nashville is the Grand Ole Opry Backstage Tour!
If you go to a show at the Grand Ole Opry and wonder if the backstage tour is still worth it… YES, it absolutely is! I think going to a show and then doing the backstage tour the next day enhances the whole experience even more.
The Grand Ole Opry Backstage Tour is only one hour long (so it won’t take up too much of your day!), but it’s packed with information. You’ll see where the stars enter and exit the Opry (and their personal mailboxes, where they respond to fan mail!) and the dressing rooms — each room has a unique theme, and certain stars prefer certain rooms! You’ll also learn tons of country music and Opry history along the way.
Best of all, you’ll also get to stand on the stage where hundreds of country music legends have performed. I love country music, so this tour was an amazing experience for me, but I think anyone would find this tour interesting and fun during a trip to Nashville.
Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum
If there is one thing that Nashville is known for, it’s country music! During a trip to Nashville, you can’t miss the chance to learn about country music history and country music’s hottest stars and timeless legends at the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum.
Be sure to visit the Hall of Fame Rotunda, which features plaques honoring country music legends inducted into the Hall of Fame, including Garth Brooks, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and Reba McEntire. You can also see rotating exhibits featuring current country stars, learn about country music history, and see award-winning records in this fantastic museum!
Tip by Brit: I recommend visiting the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museumon a Sunday to attend the Musician Spotlight. These performances showcase up-and-coming artists and are included with the cost of a museum ticket. We attended a Musician Spotlight at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and appreciated how interactive it was… totally worth it!
The Bluebird Cafe
The Bluebird Cafe is a popular music venue in Nashville where several up-and-coming artists have performed and been discovered over the past 40+ years. It’s where Taylor Swift landed her first record deal, and other artists, like Garth Brooks and Faith Hill, have had career-defining moments here. All that to say… it’s a pretty iconic spot!
So, if you’re a country music lover or a Swiftie (and I’m both!) — you have to stop here (even if just to snap a picture of the building to say you’ve seen it!).
Broadway Street
Broadway Street is, perhaps, Nashville’s most iconic attraction — after all, Nashville isn’t called “Nashvegas” for nothing! Lower Broadway Street is where you’ll find all the famous honky-tonks, celebrity bars, and high-energy nightlife venues in Nashville, making it a must-visit attraction.
If you want to sit down to enjoy live music, a drink, and a meal, soak up the views from a rooftop bar, and experience the “historic” aspect of Broadway Street, visit during the day (this is when I prefer to go to Broadway). Broadway Street has an entirely different vibe at night, which is much more party-focused. However, if you’re looking for the nightlife experience in Nashville… Broadway is the place to be once the sun goes down!
Ryman Auditorium
The Grand Ole Opry might get all the attention these days, but you absolutely cannot overlook visiting the Ryman Auditorium during a trip to Nashville. The Ryman was the former home of the Grand Ole Opry before the show moved to its current location — so this building has been around for 130+ years!
The Ryman Auditorium draws performers and musicians from all genres of music, from traditional country and modern pop to classical music and rock ‘n’ roll. Check the calendar to see who’s performing during your trip to Nashville and snag tickets to a show, or buy tickets to tour the Ryman Auditorium during your trip to Nashville (I haven’t taken this tour yet, but I’ve heard it’s amazing!).
CMA Fest
CMA Fest is the world’s longest-running country music festival that occurs annually in Nashville in early June. The event includes four nights of concerts at Nissan Stadium with country music’s biggest stars, artist meet-and-greets and autograph sessions, performances at pop-up stages in Downtown Nashville, and more. I think every country music fan needs to attend this event at least once in their lives… it’s a ton of fun!
I visited Nashville for CMA Fest more than ten years ago, and this trip is still a highlight for me when I think back to my all-time favorite trips. I went to CMA Fest with my dad, mom, and sister, but I would love to go back and take my husband. It’s such a fun experience, especially if you love country music!
Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Nashville for History Buffs
Andrew Jackson Hermitage
Have you ever visited a former president’s home before? If not, Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage is the perfect place to visit during your trip to Nashville, TN.
This historic house and farm were owned by the seventh president of the United States, Andrew Jackson, and are now open to the public for exploration. At the Hermitage, you can visit Natchez Hills Winery and Vineyard to enjoy a glass of wine or head to FKS Kitchen for lunch or dinner. If you enjoy learning about history, definitely visit The Hermitage in Nashville!
Carnton
While Carnton is technically 30 minutes away from Nashville (in Franklin — one of my favorite day trips from Nashville!), this historic home definitely deserves a stop during your trip to Nashville if you love history (like me!). In fact, I recommend spending a whole day in Franklin during a trip to Nashville. It’s totally worth the drive!
Franklin played a huge role in the Civil War during the Battle of Franklin in November 1864 (a major victory for the Union Army and a turning point in the war), which is why there are so many historical sites here. Carnton, in particular, was the largest temporary field hospital during the Battle of Franklin. You can still see the bloodstains on the porch!
Carter House
Carter House is a must-visit if you want to dive deeper into Civil War history during your trip to Nashville. This is my favorite historical tour in Greater Nashville!
The Battle of Franklin actually was fought in the backyard of the Carter House while the family who lived in the home (and some of the neighbors!) hid in the basement. You can still see the bullet holes through the walls — in fact, this home is the most battle-damaged building from the Civil War that is still standing (pretty impressive, right?).
Tip by Brit: Want to take a deeper dive into Franklin’s Civil War history? This popular Civil War History Tour: The Battle of Franklin includes transportation to and from the Carter, Carnton, and Lotz House with admissions costs covered and knowledgeable guides at each location to share the unique history of each historic spot with you!
Belle Meade Historic Site
Belle Meade is another stunning historic home you can tour during a trip to Nashville, offering a chance to “step back” in time to the 1850s, when it was built.
Belle Meade was one of the most influential stud farms in American racing history, so you can learn about the property’s equestrian legacy during your visit. In addition to the history-focused and mansion tours, you can also book wine, bourbon, and food pairing experiences at this historic mansion. This is one tour I haven’t had the chance to experience in Nashville yet, but it’s on my list of places to explore on a future trip!
Best Parks and Outdoor Spaces in Nashville for Nature Lovers
Centennial Park
Centennial Park has been around for centuries, but was officially named in 1897 to celebrate the state’s centennial (hence the name!). There are tons of awesome things to do at Centennial Park, but the one thing you can’t miss (literally — it’s huge) is the replica of the Parthenon right in the park’s center.
Nashville’s Parthenon is a real-size replica of the Parthenon in Athens. Though it’s impressive to admire from the outside, it’s equally remarkable to tour on the inside as well. Inside, you’ll see a 42-foot-tall sculpture of Athena, the Greek goddess. This statue is the largest indoor sculpture in the Western Hemisphere (in Nashville… crazy, right?). The museum also contains permanent and temporary exhibits, including replicas of the Parthenon Marbles housed in the British Museum.
Cheekwood Estate & Garden
Cheekwood Estate & Garden was once a private residence in Nashville, but it’s now a stunning public botanical garden, museum, and arboretum that is open to the public.
Although the beautiful gardens filled with plants and flowers are one of the most popular places to visit at Cheekwood Estate & Garden, you can also tour the art galleries and historic rooms inside the mansion (the inside of the mansion was gorgeous — I love touring historic homes when I travel, like The Biltmore and The Breakers!). This beautiful estate is one of the most fun things to do in Nashville if you love history, art, and architecture.
Cheekwood also has fun seasonal events, so be sure to check the calendar to see what’s happening at the estate before your trip to Nashville. We visited Cheekwood during the fall, so we were able to attend the Cheekwood Harvest — the pumpkin houses were a highlight and super kid-friendly (my daughter loved them!).
The Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center
Okay, so The Gaylord Opryland Resort isn’t technically an outdoor space, but the reason it’s a can’t-miss attraction during a trip to Nashville is because it feels like it is!
The Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center is a massive hotel in Nashville that is reminiscent of a hotel on The Strip in Vegas (without the casinos and gambling). This hotel is filled with beautiful tropical gardens, a massive waterpark, and 15+ restaurants and bars. You can even take a boat ride on the river that snakes through the hotel. It’s seriously impressive!
Walking around this resort for a few hours is always a highlight during my trips to Nashville (I haven’t stayed here overnight yet — but it’s on my bucket list!). I also haven’t visited during Christmas yet, but I hear this hotel is decorated beautifully for the holiday season!
Top Coffee Shops & Brunch Spots in Nashville
Before I jump into my top picks for brunch and coffee in Nashville, I want to point out that I have an entire post dedicated to the best breakfast, brunch, and coffee shops in Nashville. If you’re going to be in Nashville for several days (or are a coffee and brunch lover, like me!), check out this post for more recommendations!
Biscuit Love
Biscuit Love is a Nashville staple for brunch. I think everyone needs to get brunch and coffee here at least once during their trip to Nashville! I’ve been to the locations in Hillsboro Village and Franklin (though there is also one in The Gulch), and though the food was great at each.
Biscuit Love serves biscuit breakfast sandwiches (I recommend The Princess or East Nasty!), but most of all, I recommend the Bonuts. Bonuts are donut holes made from biscuit dough, served with lemon mascarpone and blueberry compote. Get an order to share!
Ladybird Taco
Ladybird Taco is absolutely one of my favorite spots for a quick breakfast in Nashville, especially if I am spending the morning in 12 South!
First off, Ladybird Taco has amazing coffee. The Carmadillo Latte, made with house-made salted caramel, is one of my favorite coffees in Nashville! And, of course, the tacos are always delicious. My favorite breakfast taco is the #1 (made with bacon, egg, and cheese), and for lunch, the #12 (made with pork, refried beans, green onions, cabbage, and cheese) is my go-to!
Frothy Monkey
Frothy Monkey is a popular coffee, breakfast, and lunch café chain with several locations in Nashville, including 12 South, Downtown Nashville, Downtown Franklin, and East Nashville. They also have locations in Birmingham and Knoxville.
Frothy Monkey makes all its food and drinks from scratch and sources its ingredients from local farmers and producers. And, while Frothy Monkey definitely offers an amazing brunch menu, this establishment is, first and foremost, a local coffee roaster. I’ve been to Frothy Monkey a ton of times, and the Havana Latte is my favorite drink!
Proper Bagel
If you love a “proper” NY bagel (no pun intended!), you’re going to love Proper Bagel in Nashville. This family-owned local breakfast joint specializes in freshly made bagels and spreads, and the most challenging part of dining here is deciding which to choose! They have all kinds of flavors, from sourdough and sesame to everything, and cinnamon crunch.
Personally, I ordered the New Yorker here, which is a breakfast sandwich with egg and bacon, but I’ve been dying to come back to try some more of the bagels and spreads. The cookie dough cream cheese is calling to my sweet tooth!
Best Places for Lunch & Dinner in Nashville
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
If there is one thing you have to try while you’re in Nashville… it’s Nashville Hot Chicken. And, in my humble opinion, there is nowhere better to get hot chicken than at Hattie B’s Hot Chicken!
I’ve tried Nashville Hot Chicken at a lot of places in Nashville, and Hattie B’s (though it’s super popular!) is still my favorite. I’m kind of a whimp when it comes to spicy things (I like the spicy flavor… not the feeling that my mouth is on fire), so I generally opt for the Mild Sandwich or Tenders with a side of fries. Hattie B’s has locations all around Nashville (it’s a local chain), so this is a great place to stop for a quick lunch!
The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden
The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden is such a fun place to grab a burger and a drink in Nashville. It’s a super spacious indoor-outdoor venue (as you would expect from a beer garden!) with a lush outdoor patio. The atmosphere is just as good as the food!
But speaking of the food… the burgers here are exceptional! You can’t go wrong with the namesake — I loved the Pharmacy Burger with all the “classic” burger toppings. This venue also serves bratwurst and even has a vegetarian menu for vegan travelers. The drink menu here is also fun. I ordered a German “bier” on tap, but you can also order cocktails and alcoholic lemonades, shakes, and floats. I’m feeling like I missed out and might need to try the Salted Caramel Whiskey Shake next time… yum!
Bartaco
Bartaco might not be a local spot, but it is one of my favorite places to eat in Nashville that I keep returning to time and time again, so I thought it deserved a spot on this list!
Bartaco specializes in street tacos and margaritas and has two locations in Nashville: 12 South and East Nashville. I have been to both locations and have had a great experience at each! My favorite taco is the pork belly taco (just take my word for it… you’re going to want to order more than one of these!), and the sangria is great. I also loved the Berry Colada as a non-alcoholic drink option — it was refreshing and delicious!
Salento Italia
If you’re craving Italian food, head over to Salento Italia, which, in my book, is the best Italian restaurant in Nashville! We went to this restaurant for a family event, so I unfortunately didn’t take any photos, but wow… the food was spectacular, and the ambiance was just as nice!
This family-owned restaurant has such a warm, inviting atmosphere and great service. The Gnocchi and Short Rib (with arugula and goat cheese!) was amazing, and the Black Manhattan was also delicious. I think everyone in our group enjoyed their meal here. It was spectacular!
The Grilled Cheeserie
If you’re a kid at heart, you’re going to love The Grilled Cheeserie! This fast-casual restaurant in Nashville serves specialty grilled cheese sandwiches and melts, including a Pimento Mac & Cheese Melt and Quesabirria Melt. You can also order a classic grilled cheese with extras (that’s what I did!), and, of course, get a side of tomato soup for dunking it.
The Grilled Cheeserie also has a milkshake bar that serves classic and specialty shakes, if you’re craving something sweet. Personally, I ordered a sweet tea to enjoy with my grilled cheese, and it was delicious!
Puckett’s Restaurant
Puckett’s Restaurant has been around since the 1950s and now has locations all across Tennessee. Puckett’s is a must-visit during a trip to Nashville for traditional Southern food!
I’ve been to the Puckett’s locations in Downtown Nashville and Franklin, and both times, the food and the service have been exceptional. The Piggy Mac and Chicken Fried Chicken are both popular here, as is the Puckett’s BBQ Platter. I personally like the Music City Hot Chicken Sandwich. I definitely think it’s a contender for “best hot chicken” up there with Hattie B’s! And, of course, don’t forget to try the Cobbler of the Day for dessert (if you still have room!).
Coolest Spots for Drinks in Nashville
Greenhouse Bar
Greenhouse Bar is one of the coolest and most laid-back places to grab a drink in Nashville (unlike some of the high-energy bars on Broadway!). This bar is literally located inside a greenhouse, so you’ll be surrounded by plants while you sip on your cocktail of choice. The atmosphere is worth visiting for, but trust me — the drinks are just as good!
I’ve also eaten at Greenhouse Bar a couple of times, and the food has always been good. The best thing I’ve eaten here is the quesabirria tacos!
Pushing Daisies
Pushing Daisies has been on my list of places to try in Nashville for several years, and I finally had the chance to visit this during my last trip to Nashville. This underground margarita bar did not disappoint. The atmosphere was chic and sophisticated, and the drinks were great too. Go earlier in the evening for fewer crowds. It gets busier as the night goes on!
I love a good old-fashioned, so per my brother-in-law’s recommendation, I tried The Old Fashioned Guey, and it was fantastic! However, Pushing Daisies also has plenty of traditional tequila drinks, like Spicy Margaritas and Palomas, if you’d rather stick to the classic favorites.
Urban Cowboy Public House
Urban Cowboy Public House is a cool and laid-back place to grab a drink in Nashville. This rustic-chic bar in East Nashville is mostly outdoors (with tons of places to sit!) and is connected to a bed-and-breakfast, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
Unfortunately, I wasn’t feeling well during our visit to Urban Cowboy Public House with family, so I didn’t get anything to drink. Everyone else’s drinks looked terrific, and the atmosphere was super enjoyable (even sans drink). I would love to come back to check out this bar when I’m feeling 100% better to get the full experience!
Best Places to Get Sweet Treats in Nashville
Jeni’s Ice Creams
If you only have time to stop at one place for dessert while you’re in Nashville, you have to go to Jeni’s Ice Creams. For someone who loves ice cream, this is a bold claim, but I think Jeni’s is my favorite ice cream shop ever! The Gooey Butter Cake, Lemon Bar, and Honey Vanilla Bean are my top flavors (preferably on a waffle cone, made fresh in each scoop shop!).
Jeni’s started in Ohio, but opened their second location in Nashville (making it almost local). Since then, Jeni’s has opened several locations in Nashville (East Nashville, 12 South, Hillsboro Village, and Brentwood), and is rapidly expanding across the South and West USA!
Five Daughters Bakery
Five Daughters Bakery is an adorable family-owned bakery that started in Nashville but has also expanded to Atlanta. This bakery is known for its “100 Layer Donuts” with fun flavors like Chocolate Sea Salt, Maple Glaze, and Vanilla Cream (all amazing… yes, I’ve tried them all!).
You can visit Five Daughters Bakery for breakfast, but personally, stopping by for a donut to satisfy my afternoon sweet tooth is my go-to! You can find Five Daughters Bakery locations in many popular spots around Nashville, including 12 South, East Nashville, 5th & Broadway, The Gulch, and The Factory at Franklin.
Hattie Jane’s Cremery
Jeni’s might be #1 in my heart when it comes to the best ice cream in Nashville, but I have to say — Hattie Jane’s Creamery comes in at a close second!
This small-batch bakery and scoop shop started in Tennessee and specializes in Southern flavors, like Nana Puddin’, Brown Butter Pecan, and Goo Goo & Jack (a 21+ booze-infused ice cream!). Hattie Jane’s has locations in Assembly Food Hall on Broadway, in Donelson, and in East Nashville, so it should be easy to fill your ice cream fix regardless of where you’re staying during a trip to Nashville.
Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Nashville
Graduate by Hilton Nashville (Downtown Nashville)
Graduate by Hilton Nashville is one of the coolest places to stay in Nashville, especially for a girls’ trip or a bachelorette party (p.s. — even if you don’t stay here, you need to stop by to check out the colorful lobby and grab a coffee at Poindexter Coffee!).
The rooms are super “girly” and fun at the Graduate by Hilton Nashville, and other highlights include the chic rooftop pool and bar, White Limozeen, themed after Dolly Parton (one of the best rooftop pools in Nashville!). You’ll love the vibrant, retro feel of this fun hotel, and it’s located right between Centennial Park and Broadway — making it the perfect place to stay on a Nashville vacation!
The Gilmore (12 South)
The Gilmore is a brand-new hotel located in the heart of 12 South, within walking distance of all the best places to eat and shop in this trendy neighborhood.
This highly rated boutique hotel offers stunning studio rooms and one- to four-bedroom units, making it the perfect place to stay for a cozy couples’ getaway or a big event with a larger group, like a girls’ trip or bachelorette party. The rooms are gorgeous (and dog-friendly!), and the hotel also offers a picturesque rooftop terrace, courtyard, and in-room spa services.
The Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center (East Nashville)
If you want to stay away from the crowds in Downtown Nashville at a hotel that is an experience in and of itself, consider staying at The Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center!
The Gaylord Opryland Resort has tons of on-site restaurants and family-friendly amenities, including an indoor waterpark, an arcade, and a spa, making it an exceptional spot for a family vacation in Nashville. It’s also within walking distance of The Opry, making it a great place to stay if a show and backstage tour at The Opry are high on your Nashville bucket list!
The Union Station Nashville Yards, Autograph Collection (The Gulch)
The Union Station Nashville Yards has been getting a lot of attention lately, and after you take a peek inside, it’s easy to see why. This five-star hotel is drop-dead gorgeous and located just a short distance from both The Gulch and Broadway Street!
Located inside what was once Nashville’s vibrant central train terminal, The Union Station Nashville Yards is now one of the most luxurious and sophisticated places to stay in Nashville. This building oozes historic charm but also has elegant touches for modern travelers. It kind of reminds me of Hotel Emma at The Pearl in San Antonio!
Make Memories in Music City with This List of the Best Things to Do in Nashville
Wow, if you are still reading at this point… I applaud you! That post ended up being wayyy longer than I anticipated, but what can I say… I love Nashville, and after spending so much time exploring this vibrant city, I have a lot to say about it (and a lot of places to recommend!).
If you’re planning to visit Nashville soon, I hope this list of the best things to do in Nashville will help you plan a trip that makes you fall in love with the city as much as I have. And if you need more itinerary inspiration, be sure to check out my other blog posts about Nashville!
Save This Ultimate Guide to Nashville for Your Vacation to Music City
