Nashville is a fun city, and it seems like nowadays the whole world knows it. You can thank the city’s vibrant hipster community and their social media following, but millennials aside? This southern gem is full of incredible sights and delicious foodie experiences that are sure to give you and your loved ones the trip of a lifetime. Whether you’re visiting or simply looking for fun things to do in your hometown, these ten experiences can be had in an hour or less. Sounds tempting, doesn’t it?
10. Learn all about Nashville's history at the Tennessee State Museum - for free!
The Tennessee State Museum is now located in a new location just outside of downtown, in a brand new space that hosts all sorts of room for expanded exhibits and events. Admission is free for locals and tourists, so come and stay as long as you'd like. (1000 Rosa L Parks Blvd)
9. Support a local cause with a cup of coffee.
Humpreys Street changed the landscape of Nashville's "cool" coffee culture by serving a cup of joe with a heart. A facet of Harvest Hands CDC, the non-profit coffee shop offers jobs and mentorship opportunities for local youth. All of the shop's profits are reinvested in the community, providing scholarships and programs for the students they employ. Pretty neat, wouldn't you say? (424 Humphreys Street)
8. Take the backstage tour at The Ryman Auditorium.
The Ryman Auditorium is known as the "Mother Church of Country Music" and is one of the most historic venues in the United States. As the original home of the Grand Ole Opry, this gorgeous concert hall has a deep history all its own. You can visit the dressing rooms and hear the stories of the past with a guided tour of the Ryman's backstage, an experience some call the best in Nashville. (116 5th Ave N)
7. Hike the ever-beautiful Radnor Lake.
Radnor Lake has long been a favorite of Nashvillians, mainly for its out-of-the-way location and its gorgeous Lake Loop hike. Make sure to visit for the chance to wander the Tennessee wilderness while staying oh so close to the city. (1160 Otter Creek Rd)
6. Visit the Man in Black at the Johnny Cash Museum.
The Johnny Cash Museum is located in downtown Nashville, conveniantly right off of the famed Honkytonk Highway. The affordable museum is great for families with older children, or perhaps the most country music obsessed of y'all. (119 3rd Ave S)
5. See the full-scale model of Athen's Parthenon in Centennial Park for yourself.
Nashville is commonly referred to as, "The Athens of the South" for the many institutions of higher learning found throughout the city, and it boasts its educational prowess with a full-scale Parthenon. A nod to Athens, the structure was built for the city's centennial celebration in 1897. You have to pay to get into the art museum it houses, but wandering the park is free. There may even be an event or two going on across the front lawn. (2500 West End Ave)
4. Wander the sprawling Gaylord Opryland Hotel.
The Opryland Hotel is known for its holiday light display, but all year 'round its an incredible space that plays hosts to delicious restaurants, wonderful shopping experiences and a massive rotunda that's bound to make your jaw drop. If you're looking to stay for more than an hour, you can always book a room. (2800 Opryland Drive)
3. Grab a latte at Fido, Taylor Swift style.
Most folks know about the famous "outing" of Taylor Swift and her once-beau Jake Gyllenhaal in Nashville. Their photo was taken in Hillsboro Village as they left the ever-fabulous Fido, coffees in hand. Pop star culture aside, Fido is a great spot for a hefty meal or even just a coffee to go. We always recommend the Local Latte, made with honey and cinnamon. Yum! (1812 21st Ave S)
2. Experience the magic of the Nashville Zoo.
Visiting the zoo isn't just for kids, you know. Located a hot second outside of the city, the Nashville Zoo is an affordable way to learn about all sorts of exotic - and local! - animals. Make sure to check their event calendar for fun experiences hosted throughout the year as well. (3777 Nolensville Pike)
1. Revisit your childhood palate with an elegant meal at Mockingbird.
This Nashville restaurant is beautifully designed and well-situated in the Gulch neighborhood, and its menu is full of your favorite eats from childhood with an adult twist. Whether you're indulging in a plate of tatchos or perhaps elevated grilled cheese (with brie!), Mockingbird is bound to fill your belly and give you a few stories to tell. (121A 12th Avenue North)
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