A Local’s Guide to Nashville

Nashville, Tennessee is currently the country’s “it” city and for good reason. Nashville’s vibrant music scene draws millions of visitors a year, and its rising culinary scene has been noted by journalists around the world. As someone who was born and raised in Nashville, I am fortunate to have an intimate knowledge of the city and of its most treasured spots. And, while I could write a book on my favorite things to do and see in Nashville, below is a list of essential Nashville treasures. 

Museums and Tours

Country Music Hall of Fame

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: Without doubt, when in Nashville, you have to visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. No matter what age you are or what type of country music you like, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the CMHOF. From stage costumes and priceless instruments to handwritten lyrics of country classics, the museum is a multi-floor, multi-sensory experience. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated, and the programs offered are unmatched. If you plan to visit, give yourself at least two hours to see everything. It’s well worth the time. 

RCA Studio B: If you are a music fan, no visit to Nashville is complete without a tour of RCA Studio B. The world-famous studio, located on Nashville’s famed Music Row, played host to recording sessions for some of music’s most famous artists of all time: Dolly Parton, Roy Orbison, the Everly Brothers and Elvis Presley. In fact, Elvis recorded more than 200 songs at RCA Studio B, and X still marks the spot on the floor where all of these world-famous vocals were recorded. The entire tour takes one hour, and it’s an absolutely magical and moving journey through music history.

Hatch Show Print: This 140-year-old print shop is responsible for some of the most iconic posters and prints of all time. On the tour, you’ll get glimpses of historical blocks carved of presidents, athletes, and artists, and you’ll discover what it takes to make your very own Hatch Show Print. My kids love this one, too!

Some additional favorites include The Frist Museum, Cheekwood, the National Museum of African American Music, and the Musicians Hall of Fame.
 

Live Music Venues/Experiences

The Ryman Auditorium

Ryman Auditorium: Known affectionately as the mother church of country music, the Ryman Auditorium, which first opened in 1892, is an exceptional place to see a concert. Patrons sit in church pews, and the acoustics are unmatched. In addition to catching a show here, make sure you check out their tour. The Ryman tour is exceptional, sharing the history of the building and the legendary performers who have played there including Houdini, Louis Armstrong, Enrico Caruso, and even Charlie Chaplin.

Grand Ole Opry: If you’re a fan of country music, the Grand Ole Opry is an absolute must visit. Started in 1925 by George D. Hay as the WSM Barn Dance, the Grand Ole Opry took its current name in 1927 and has been performed under that name ever since. Made famous on Nashville’s historic WSM radio, each Grand Ole Opry show features eight or more artists including members like Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban and Vince Gill along with up-and-coming artists. In addition to the live shows, they also offer an amazing back-stage tour experience.

Bluebird Cafe: If you love and appreciate the art of songwriting, the Bluebird Cafe is the most impactful experience in Nashville. It is the most famous listening room in the world, and that’s for good reason. It’s an intimate and soul-stirring musical environment that I think everyone should experience at least once. Getting tickets can be challenging, but it is 100% worth it. 

Additional live music venues I enjoy include Skydeck on Broadway - the largest rooftop venue in Nashville (and it’s covered, which is a bonus), Schermerhorn Symphony Center, 3rd and Lindsley, Basement East, the 5 Spot, and the Listening Room.

Robert’s Western World

Bars and Restaurants

Robert’s Western World: Robert’s is my favorite bar on Nashville’s downtown Broadway strip. If you’re a fan of traditional country music, this is the place for you. They also make the best grilled cheese sandwich and fried pickles on the planet. And, my favorite is that they still offer their 'Recession Special' - a fried bologna sandwich, side of chips, a Moon Pie, and a Pabst Blue Ribbon - all for $6.00.

Santa’s Pub: Santa’s is a fantastic dive bar in a double-wide trailer and decked out in holiday décor year-round. There’s also karaoke, cheap beer, and an old-school smoky environment. Bar patrons range from the famous to the not-so famous, and you never know who or what you’ll see there.

Assembly Food Hall: The country’s largest food hall – with more than 30 bars and eateries – is in downtown Nashville in the spectacular Fifth + Broadway development. Sitting only feet from one of the country’s busiest intersections, Assembly Food Hall features a myriad of food options including fresh sushi, lobster rolls, banh mi, BBQ, tacos, cheese steaks, pizza, and more. It’s super family friendly and adjacent to both Bridgestone Arena and the Ryman, making it an ideal dining destination for pre-concert or event downtown.

Supper Club at 1230 Club: Opened by restaurateur Sam Fox in conjunction with Justin Timberlake and some additional investors, the 1230 Club is a multistory complex. Supper Club, on the 3rd floor, is a fine dining concept with prime steaks, fresh seafood flown in daily, and delicious sides and desserts. In addition to the amazing food, the place is absolutely gorgeous – moody, sexy, and old-school elegant. With a live music component in the dining room, it’s a really entertaining dining experience.

Epice:Epice is a family-owned Lebanese bistro in the 12 South neighborhood. Epice offers modern design alongside delicious Lebanese dishes and friendly, knowledgeable service. It’s my go-to location for a lunch meeting with clients or a night out with friends. The food is always a 10 out of 10.

Buttermilk Ranch:Also in 12 South, you’ll find Buttermilk Ranch. It’s easily my favorite place to have breakfast in Nashville. The biscuits are a cross between a traditional buttermilk biscuit and a flaky croissant, and the house-made apple butter will make you want to smack someone. It's so good. I’ve never ordered anything from that menu that I wouldn't eat again 100 times.

Additional bars and restaurants that deserve a shout out here are Etch, Green Hill Grille, Margot, Legends Corner Bar, Urban Grub, and Pushing Daisies (for a non-country music bar experience).

Simply put, there are just too many things I love about this town to create a fully comprehensive list, but these certainly qualify as the highlights I’d recommend to anyone visiting Nashville.