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Nashville is the state capital of Tennessee. Affectionately known as the “Music City”, Nashville is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the United States. Nashville is the home of the “Grand Old Opry” and the place where many popular country music stars start their careers.
Things To Do In Nashville
If you are planning a vacation in Nashville there are many things to do and many places to see.
The Grand Old Opry
The Grand Old Opry is America’s longest continually running radio show. Since 1925 it has been the showcase of some of the biggest stars in country music. The studio holds 4,424 people. Though the Grand Old Opry is hosted at the Ryman Theater for the months of November through February, the Grand Old Opry house is considered the Opry’s home.
Ryman Theater
The Ryman is one of the most famous live venues in the country. The Ryman was the home of the Grand Old Opry from 1943 to 1974. Though the theatre now hosts artists of all genres, it still hosts the Opry from November to February each year.
Country Music Hall of Fame
The Country Music Hall of Fame covers the history of country music from its roots to its present day stars. The “Sing Me Back Home” exhibit is a comprehensive history of country music through the years. The “Thomas Hart Benton Gallery” is a mural of paintings by Thomas Hart Benton. It features images reminiscent of the heart of country-style music. The “Hall of Fame” showcases the work and lives of the Hall of Fame inductees. Along with these permanent exhibits, there are always new things to see at the Hall of Fame. Guided and group tours are available.
Cheekwood Botanical Gardens and Art Museum
The 55-acre spread of Cheekwood Botanical Gardens and Art Museum was once the home of the Cheek family. The establishment was opened o the public in 1960. The gardens feature a Japanese garden, a wildflower garden, and herb gardens. The Cheek house is now an art museum featuring English and American decorative arts, American paintings and sculpture, and travelling exhibits.
The Opryland Hotel
With 3,000 rooms and nine acres of indoor gardens all under one glass roof, the Gaylord Opryland Hotel is a must-see. Even if you don’t stay the night, sightseers are welcome although you will have to pay a fee for parking. Besides winding walkways, a boat ride, and majestic waterfalls there’s plenty of shopping, dining, and live music inside the hotel. Afterwards, you can walk next door and check out the mega mall, Opry Mills, located on the former Opryland theme park property.
The Tennessee State Museum
This museum is a great place to immerse yourself in the rich history of the state of Tennessee. Many permanent exhibits display artefacts from the history of the state. Authentic weaponry, tools, and furniture are on display. The museum offers replicas of an 18th-century gristmill and a printing shop. A historically accurate rustic cabin from the days of the earliest settlers in Tennessee is a featured attraction. The museum also has a display of Victorian paintings.
Music Valley Wax Museum
The wax museum features over fifty wax models of country music stars from the past and present. Some stars include Minnie Pearl, Dolly Parton, Hank Williams Sr., and Johnny Cash. The museum also features the “Sidewalk of the Stars” where over three hundred artists have left their handprints, footprints, and autographs inscribed in the cement.
Nash Trash Tours
You can see Nashville through the windows of a large pink bus. The Jugg sisters offer this unique tour of Nashville. The bus will take you to the Ryman Theater, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the local jail. The Jugg sisters offer a different tour than your average sightseeing trip. They fill you in on all the Nashville celebrity gossip and offer hors d’oeuvres. Small coolers with beverages of your choice are permitted on the bus.
The Parthenon
Located in Centennial Park, the Parthenon is an exact replica of the Parthenon in Greece. The Parthenon is home to an art museum featuring American paintings from the last two centuries.
Wave Country
This attraction is only operational throughout the summer months. Wave Country features water slides and a giant wave pool. They have a large deck for sunbathers and a family picnic area. You can also play volleyball or enjoy the playground. An adult must accompany children under twelve at all times.
