Attracting tourists like never before, the city of Nashville has quickly become a top destination for the south. Known as the Music City to most, Nashville’s country music, honky-tonks, and cowboy hats are what really drive the tourism for the city, however, in recent years, the city has grown to offer so much more to residents and visitors. If your summer travels have you headed to the crown jewel of Middle Tennessee, be sure to pack your cowboy boots and stop by these few sites while you’re in town:
Broadway
In the heart of downtown you will find a not so quiet area filled with the sound of live music of all the up and coming artists echoing into the street. Broadway is known for hosting the rowdiest honky-tonks. Morning, noon or night, tourists can hear musicians crooning out country classics and today’s favorite tunes.
No stroll down Broadway would be complete without a stop in Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge. The legacy is that many of country music’s top artists started their careers by playing in Tootsies; Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, Waylon Jennings, and Patsy Cline. Even today’s country artists like Keith Urban, Kenny Chesney, and Dierks Bentley has been seen on stage.
Ryman Auditorium & The Grand Ole Opry
Ryman Auditorium, “the Mother Church of Country Music,” is a magical place to experience a show. As the home of the original Grand Ole Opry, Ryman is linked to the rise of country music and the birthplace of bluegrass. The history alone within this building is the selling point to many visitors. A section of the floor now resides in the current Grand Ole Opry. So, if you plan to visit the Ryman Auditorium you may as well put it on your schedule to see the new location. If you are a country music lover, how could you even think to pass on this opportunity?
Live on the Green
More music! Live on the Green is a summer series put on by Lightning 100, Nashville’s oldest independent radio station, in Public Square Park. The station hosts a free show every week showcasing new talent along with well-known national acts outside of the country music industry. This is a great way to see the next big band and who can beat a free concert?
Radnor Lake
For the nature enthusiast, Radnor Lake State Park is a 1,332-acre park open to the public seven days a week year round and is free to enter (there may be fees associated with certain activities). Enjoy hiking, golfing, horseback riding and more! There’s no better place to kick off your shoes and cool off than a dip in Radnor Lake!
Best Hot Chicken
After all the site-seeing there is no way you won’t have worked up an appetite. What better way to satisfy your stomach than some fried chicken?
- Prince’s Hot Chicken has served everyone from US Presidents to musicians and actors.
- Bolton’s Hot Chicken, if you prefer a dry spice.
- Hattie B’s, a personal favorite.
- The Row, where you get music with your meal (this is where the song “Friend in Low Places” was sold).
Traveling out of Nashville instead?
If you are a resident of Nashville and will be traveling out of town for your summer vacation, there is a new choice for premium Nashville airport parking: Park ‘N Fly. The lot features the following amenities:
- The ONLY climate controlled indoor valet parking option in Music City.
- Luggage assistance
- Gated self-parking
- 24/7 hour access
- 24 hour security
- Frequent parker rewards program
Reserve your spot online now! Safe travels!
