Fun Things to Do in Nashville TN (Tennessee)

Nashville, often celebrated as the heart of American country music and a symbol of Southern hospitality, is a captivating city brimming with attractions. Known for its iconic music scene and delectable cuisine, Music City has something for everyone.

The lively Downtown area offers constant excitement, while the tranquil neighborhoods along the Cumberland River present a more varied experience than Nashville’s music-focused reputation suggests.

Beyond its famed music culture, Nashville is a haven for adventure and nature enthusiasts. The Tennessee State capital is conveniently close to some of the most scenic hiking trails and outdoor activities. To the west, you can explore the Cheatham Wildlife Management Area and Harpeth River State Park, while a few hours east lies the breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are countless opportunities to venture off the beaten path and discover nature’s beauty.

Without wasting much time, here is the list of fun things to do in Nashville, TN

Fun things to do in Nashville, TN

1. Cumberland Park

This is the largest urban park in the city, and it’s a great place to spend some time outside. You can walk along the riverfront, check out the amphitheater, or take a hike through the trails. There’s a skate park, tennis courts and baseball fields if you want to get active while you’re at Cumberland Park.

There’s also a large kids’ playground if you want to bring the whole family along. If you’re hungry after your walk, there are several restaurants and snack bars to choose from. You can also ride on the riverboat or hop on a paddleboat if you want to see the sights from the water.

2. Visit the Schermerhorn Symphony Center

The Schermerhorn Symphony Center is a world-class center for music and the arts located in downtown Nashville. It is home to the Nashville Symphony, the Nashville Opera, and the Nashville Ballet and hosts a variety of classical, jazz, and world music concerts. The center is designed to be a place of learning, exploration, and creativity with its many educational programs and events.

The Schermerhorn Symphony Center features a 1,844-seat concert hall that is considered to be one of the finest in the world. The hall is designed to create an intimate experience for the audience and features a sophisticated acoustical system. Visitors will enjoy the beautiful interiors, which include intricate woodwork, colorful stained glass, and stunning sculptures.

The Schermerhorn Symphony Center also features a variety of interactive exhibits and activities for visitors, including a virtual reality experience. Visitors can explore the world of music through interactive games and activities, as well as learn about the history of the Nashville Symphony and its music. Visitors can also take part in workshops and seminars on music theory, composition, performance, and more.

3. Explore the Long Hunter State Park

Located just outside of Nashville, Long Hunter State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and bird watching to fishing and swimming. There are numerous trails for every level of hiker, and the park has a variety of wildlife to observe, including deer, fox, and waterfowl. Visitors can also take part in educational programs and guided tours that introduce them to the park’s natural beauty.

4. Visit the Belle Meade Plantation

If you want to get the best of what Nashville, TN, has to offer, then you have to visit the Belle Meade Plantation. This historic landmark is the perfect place to get a glimpse into the city’s past and its vibrant culture. You can wander through the grounds of the plantation and explore the mansion, which is filled with interesting artifacts and stories. Take a tour guide to learn more about the history of the plantation and the people who lived there. You can also enjoy the beautiful gardens and grounds, which are filled with lush grass and colorful flowers.

At Belle Meade Plantation, you can also enjoy the many events they host throughout the year. From historical reenactments to outdoor concerts and family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And don’t forget to take a ride on the plantation’s famous horse-drawn carriage for a unique experience.

If you’re looking for a more active adventure in Nashville, TN, then you won’t want to miss out on the city’s many outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a hike, a bike ride, or a leisurely walk, there are plenty of trails and parks where you can explore the city’s natural beauty. The Belle Meade Plantation is even home to an equestrian center, so you can enjoy horseback riding as well.

5. Music Row

This is the main location for the country music industry in Nashville, so if you want to learn about the history of the biz, you’ll want to visit Music Row. The main attractions are the historic RCA Studio B, the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Bluebird Cafe.

You can also check out the Country Music Association’s Museum and Sony Music Nashville’s Legacy Museum. There are audio and visual exhibits where you can learn about the greats in the industry, iconic instruments, and the history of the radio shows. You can also see recording equipment and check out costumes, costumes, and other memorabilia from famous artists.

6. Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory

This is one of the planetariums in Nashville, and it features a large IMAX dome that is out of this world. The show highlights the wonders of the cosmos and takes you to different planets and galaxies. This presents the universe in a way that you’ve probably never seen before, and it will inspire you to look to the stars for the rest of your life.

You can also visit the Observatory grounds and Observatory Gallery to learn more about the architecture and science behind the facility. If you want a once-in-a-lifetime experience, you can attend Star Party at the Observatory. It’s a special event that lets you stargaze with astronomers.

7. Nashville Zoo

The Nashville Zoo is the place to go if you want to see exotic animals up close. It’s home to over 2,500 animals, including over 700 types of reptiles and amphibians and 2,000 types of birds and mammals. You can see polar bears, gorillas, pandas, koalas, and crocodiles, along with many other species that you’re not likely to encounter in the wild.

The zoo is also a great place for kids, as it has special activities and events, including birthday parties, concerts, scavenger hunts, and sleepovers. You can also visit during the holiday season to see Santa’s Village and the Wild Lights holiday event.

Also, Read 20 Fun & Best Things To Do In Townsend TN (Tennessee)

8. Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and Museum

This is a great attraction for sports fans, as it honors the legends of Tennessee athletics. You can know the history of the Titans, Grizzlies, Tennessee Volunteers, Nashville Predators, and Tennessee Titans.

If you love sports, you’ll love exploring the exhibits, watching the movies and taking part in interactive activities. If you’re in town during the summer, you can see the Vols exhibit. It’s a special exhibit that honors the team’s great history.

9. Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge

This is one of the most famous bars in the world, and it’s the go-to destination for the music industry. You can rub elbows with the greats at the bar and hear some amazing music.

Tootsie’s has live music almost every night of the week, so there’s always something happening. You can visit during the day to see the famous piano and memorabilia and take part in activities like karaoke, trivia, bingo and open mic sessions.

10. Warner Parks

If you want to get in some fresh air and explore the natural side of Nashville, head to Warner Parks. You can hike, mountain bike, horseback ride, or go on a guided tour of the trails. If you want to do something fun, you can also go rock climbing, rappelling, and ziplining on the treetops.

Or, if you want to get more out of your experience, you can take part in one of the educational programs, visit the Discovery Center or take a paddleboard or canoe trip.

11. Hatch Show Print

This is a historic print shop, and it’s the longest-running business of its kind in the U.S. You can go inside the shop and watch the printers working on orders for posters, invitations, and commemorative items. If you want to know more about the history of the business, you can take a tour, where you can see the original machines and old posters.

You can shop in the gift shop and find some amazing souvenirs and gifts for your friends and family that are unique to Nashville.

12. Tennessee State Prison

If you’re looking to explore the dark side of Nashville, you can pay a visit to the Tennessee State Prison. This is the oldest operational prison in the state and the third-oldest prison in the country. You can take a tour guide through the facility to see the cells where famous prisoners were held.

You can also visit the Death Row Museum, which houses artifacts and reproductions of death row procedures. The prison is open every Monday and Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., then Tuesday and Wednesday, 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. You’ll need to check in at the front desk when you arrive, and you’ll be given a guided tour of the facility.

13. Hermitage

This historic home was once home to President Andrew Jackson, who was responsible for the growth of the city and its significance in the United States. He lived in the Hermitage during his presidency and after he left office. Visitors can walk through the house while learning more about the president and his family.

There are also gardens, a gift shop, a research library, and a museum on the grounds. Closed on Mondays. Admission fees apply. Admission fees apply.

14. Adventure Science Center of Nashville

This children’s museum includes different exhibits on railroads, weather, science, space, music and more. The museum also hosts special events, workshops, and other educational experiences for families. There are multiple hands-on activities for all ages, including a climbing wall and a giant indoor playground.

15.  Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary

This private nature sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including owls, falcons, sandhill cranes and more. Visitors can walk through the sanctuary and see these animals up close. There is also an education center on the property where young students can learn about biology and conservation.

16. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

This is the place you should go if you want to learn about the history of country music. The museum covers famous artists, songs, instruments, and other major developments in the music biz.

There are regular concerts and other events, as well. Tickets can be pricey, but there are often discounts and coupon codes available, so it pays to shop around.  

Conclusion

Nashville is more than just a city; it’s an experience. With its rich musical heritage, delectable cuisine, beautiful parks, and historical sites, there’s no shortage of fun things to do. Whether you’re exploring Broadway, savoring hot chicken, or delving into the past at The Hermitage, every moment in Nashville is a memory in the making. So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to discover the magic of Music City.