Nashville, Tennessee known as Music City is a vibrant and dynamic destination packed with rich history, legendary music venues, mouthwatering Southern cuisine, and friendly locals who are quick to offer a helping hand or directions. Whether you’re just visiting or considering making Nashville your new home, our guide highlights the best things to do in Nashville TN from top tourist spots to local favorites, outdoor adventures, and hidden gems. As a local moving company dedicated to helping newcomers feel right at home, we created this guide to ensure your time here short or long-term is unforgettable.

Top Tourist Attractions in Nashville

  • Grand Ole Opry: Catch live country performances at this historic venue that has hosted legends for decades.
  • Ryman Auditorium: Known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” it’s a must-see for music fans.
  • Country Music Hall of Fame: Explore thousands of artifacts and learn about your favorite artists.
  • Johnny Cash Museum: A deep dive into the Man in Black’s life and legacy.
  • Broadway (Honky Tonk Highway): Famous for its neon lights, live performances, and bar-hopping excitement.

If you’re targeting must-see places in Nashville, these destinations belong on your itinerary.

Hidden Gems Only Locals Know

  • The Parthenon in Centennial Park: A full-scale replica of the Athenian original, complete with a towering statue of Athena.
  • Cheekwood Estate & Gardens: Art displays, seasonal festivals, and lush gardens abound.
  • 12 South Neighborhood Murals: Capture Instagram-worthy shots at iconic wall murals known by locals and creatives.
  • Pinewood Social: A trendy hangout featuring bowling, bocce ball, food, and drinks.
  • Hatch Show Print Shop Tour: Witness historic letterpress printing in action.

These offer a more unique experience and are ideal for travelers searching for underrated places in Nashville TN and local favorites in Nashville.

Free & Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Nashville

  • Walk across the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge: Get skyline-level views and great photo opportunities.
  • Visit Farmers’ Markets: Sample fresh produce and see local crafts at Nashville Farmers’ Market or 12 South’s market.
  • Free concerts and live music venues: Many bars on Broadway have no cover charge.
  • Self-guided mural and street art tours: Use online maps to discover the city’s artistic side for free.

These free things to do in Nashville will stretch your dollar without sacrificing fun.

Best Outdoor Activities in Nashville

  • Radnor Lake and Percy Warner Park: Hike scenic nature trails and spot wildlife just minutes from downtown.
  • Paddleboarding on the Cumberland River: Enjoy the city skyline from a unique vantage point.
  • Picnic at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park: Ideal for a relaxing afternoon with views of the State Capitol.
  • Shelby Bottoms Greenway: Walk, run, or cycle through peaceful, tree-lined paths.

Nashville Foodie Bucket List

  • Hot Chicken at Hattie B’s: A spicy Nashville culinary tradition you must try.
  • Biscuits at Loveless Café: Southern comfort food at its best with a reputation to match.
  • Tacos in East Nashville: Enjoy fusion and street-style tacos bursting with flavor.
  • Craft Breweries and Whiskey Distilleries: Head to Tennessee Brew Works or Corsair Distillery for local brews and spirits.

Nightlife & Music Venues

  • Honky Tonks on Broadway: Live music all day and night—no ticket needed!
  • The Basement & Basement East: Indie bands and an intimate concert vibe.
  • Listening Room Café: Songwriter showcases offer the stories behind your favorite tunes.
  • Bluebird Café: Iconic and tiny, it’s where big names often get discovered.

Family-Friendly Things to Do in Nashville

  • Nashville Zoo: A wild day of animal encounters and fun rides.
  • Adventure Science Center: Hands-on STEM exhibits for curious young minds.
  • Storytime at the Public Library: Engaging and educational programming for little ones.
  • Opry Mills Mall & IMAX: Shop, eat, and catch a movie under one roof.

Annual Events & Festivals

  • CMA Fest: Country music takes over Nashville each June with performances and fan events.
  • Tomato Art Fest: August’s quirkiest celebration of all things tomato in East Nashville.
  • Nashville Film Festival: Screen independent films and meet creative minds in the industry.
  • Let Freedom Sing! July 4th: Free concerts and one of the country’s largest fireworks displays.

Day Trips from Nashville

  • Franklin, TN: Charming downtown with Civil War history and boutique shopping.
  • Lynchburg: Tour the legendary Jack Daniel’s Distillery.
  • Natchez Trace Parkway: Scenic driving route with nature-filled stops along the way.
  • Leipers Fork: Artsy small town vibe with good food and great shops.

Tips for Newcomers Moving to Nashville

  • Best Neighborhoods: Explore Germantown’s charm, East Nashville’s creativity, or The Gulch’s trendy scene.
  • Getting Around: Downtown is walkable, rideshare is common, and there’s a basic transit system.
  • Local Etiquette: Expect Southern hospitality—politeness goes a long way here.
  • Safety & Weather Tips: Summers are hot and humid, winters mild. Be alert downtown at night.

Why We Love Living in Nashville – From a Local Mover’s Perspective

At Move It or Lose It Moving Company, we’ve helped many families settle into their new Nashville homes. One memorable move involved a family relocating from Chicago. They were nervous but excited. We not only helped unload their belongings efficiently, but also gave them a welcome list of local favorite eateries and parks to explore. Two months later, they called us again this time to help move Grandma from Memphis to join them! Their joy made our job matter that much more.

Relocating to Nashville?

If you’re considering a move to Nashville, there’s never been a better time to make this vibrant city your home. From world-class live music and mouthwatering Southern cuisine to peaceful parks and family-friendly neighborhoods, Nashville offers something for everyone.

Our moving company in Nashville don’t just help you move, we help you settle in. Our team knows the city inside and out, so whether you’re relocating across town or coming from out of state, we’ll make your transition smooth and stress-free. As you explore all the incredible things to do in Nashville, let us handle the heavy lifting and get you there with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some free things to do in Nashville?

Enjoy walking the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge, mural hunting, browsing farmers’ markets, or catching free live music on Broadway.

What food is Nashville famous for?

Nashville is best known for hot chicken, buttery biscuits, barbecue, and a booming craft beer and distillery scene.

What is the best time of year to visit Nashville?

Spring and fall offer mild weather and a packed festival calendar, making them the most pleasant seasons for exploring.

Where do locals hang out in Nashville?

Locals love East Nashville for food and art, 12 South for murals and boutiques, and Shelby Park for outdoor fun.

Conclusion

From chart-topping music venues to tranquil park escapes, Nashville TN promises diverse and delightful experiences for every type of traveler or resident. Whether you’re scoping out must-see places in Nashville or uncovering local favorites in Nashville, this guide aims to offer something for everyone. And if you’re already picturing your new life in Music City, remember—our local movers are just a quote away to make the transition smooth and welcoming.