Top 10 Things to Do in Nashville 2024
By Ilana Bealey
Are you curious to explore some fun and unique opportunities in Nashville, Tennessee? In this list you’ll find 10 of the most exciting things to do in Nashville that will make your trip one to remember.
#1 Cocktail Class at Standard Proof Whiskey
It wouldn’t be a trip to Nashville without a little Tennessee whiskey.
Standard Proof Whiskey Co. is a micro-distillery that began behind the bar in Nashville, Tennessee. They specialize in creating award-winning craft whiskey that’s infused with high quality, natural ingredients.
When you sign up for a class you’ll have the chance to learn about whiskey and cocktail making in an exciting new way.
An expert instructor will guide you through mixology basics in an engaging hour and a half course. Immerse yourself in the knowledge of a seasoned bartender, laugh with your friends, and enjoy some of the finest infused whiskey Nashville has to offer.
The bar is just a few minutes away from Broadway, conveniently close to downtown but far enough away to provide a more laid-back, upscale vibe. The perfect pre game experience before your big night out on the town!
This is a vibrant, interactive experience you don’t want to miss out on. Learn more and book your tickets here.
#2 See What’s Playing at The Ryman
Our next destination is just one block away from Standard Proof Whiskey Co.’s Nashville Tasting Room, and it is truly one for the books.
Located in a historic downtown building, the Ryman Auditorium has been a tourist destination and music lover’s dream for generations. In 2022 the legendary venue was named a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Landmark, and is widely known for being home to the Grand Ole Opry.
You can choose from a variety of tours by day - which include access to some of the most famous stage halls known to man.
And then there’s the shows. Artists from all genres come to play on this legendary stage. No matter what kind of music you like, the Ryman is housing shows you won’t want to miss.
Plan the perfect evening - Dinner at Puckett’s for authentic Nashville cuisine, a show at the Ryman, and then a nightcap at Standard Proof Whiskey!
#3 Take A Hike at Radnor Lake State Park
Radnor Lake State Park is a 1,368 acre park known for its amazingly diverse flora and fauna.
It has a variety of hiking trails, stunning views, and is home to the Barbara J. Mapp Aviary Education Center where you can take a self-guided tour to see the captive birds of prey, snakes, and turtles.
Not only is it an amazing place to hike, but the park is widely recognized for its dedication to sustainability and accessibility - it was even named “State Park of the Year” in Tennessee 2022.
Radnor Lake State Park is unique due to its suburban location, wildlife is abundant, and it’s the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the inner city.
#4 Honky Tonk Highway
If you’re not familiar with the term you might be wondering - what exactly is a honky tonk? The term “honky tonk” refers to a particular type of establishment that offers a consistent stream of live music, drinks, and entertainment.
Honky Tonk Highway is made up of four blocks of restaurants and bars that feature live music performances (every day of the year) generally from 10 a.m. to 3 a.m. This is the place where stars started out as unknown musicians.
Today we know many stars that began their careers on Honky Tonk Highway - Taylor Swift, Johnny Cash, Gretchen Wilson, Jason Aldean, and Hank Williams (just to name a few.)
Some of the “Honky Tonks” are owned by and named after famous artists - such as Kid Rock’s Big Honky Tonk & Steakhouse, Miranda Lambert’s Casa Rosa and Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row, while others are smaller, not star owned and are a bit more laid back.
Whichever establishment you choose, Honky Tonk Highway offers a fun and unique music scene that you just can’t get anywhere else. For more info be sure to check out Our Complete Guide to Nashville Honky Tonks.
#5 Swimming at Soundwaves
Soundwaves is an “upscale water attraction” located inside the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee.
“What’s so upscale about a water park?” you might ask. Well, this is no ordinary water park.
This particular water park just so happens to have - a wave pool, lazy rivers, rapid rivers, waterslides, good food options, several swimming pools (obviously), a kids area, and an entire floor that is adults only (complete with beverages) all set to a music theme.
Most importantly, it's reportedly very clean - like, impressively clean. And there’s plenty of space - the whole thing taking up just over four acres of the resort.
Yep, you read that right, four acres of water park fun.
The resort itself is made up of the luxury hotel (of course), Soundwaves, a 9-acre indoor garden, a variety of restaurants and bars, fitness center, and a spa. You do not have to stay overnight at the resort to have access to the water park features (a.k.a. Soundwaves.)
#6 Flamingo Feeding at the Nashville Zoo
At the Nashville Zoo you will find an array of wildlife from little lizards to roaring rhinos. This is an exciting adventure for animal lovers and kids of all ages.
Besides seeing the animals in their habitats you’ll have access to an array of activities such as -
Kangaroo Kickabout (where you can pet kangaroos)
Soaring Eagle Zip Line
4D Adventure Theater
The Jungle Gym
A carousel
The Wilderness Express Train
Nashville Zoo also hosts tons of cool events such as The Music City Puppy Bowl, Teddy Bear Clinic, an Easter egg hunt, and even adult events like Sips for Species and Brew at the Zoo.
#7 The Adventure Park At Nashville
The Adventure Park At Nashville is an emporium of engaging activity and self-discovery, conveniently located minutes from downtown Nashville.
Its 162 tree top platforms are connected by a variety of ladders, bridges, ziplines and other crossings. While there, you’ll get to test your strength on the 13 tree top trails - each of them color coded by level of difficulty.
They offer an awesome playground for kids under six who aren’t ready to take to the treetops just yet, axe throwing lanes, and fun events like Glow in the Park (think ziplining, but glow in the dark - with music!)
Regardless of what time you go, The Adventure Park At Nashville is sure to be an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
#8 Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, which was once a family home, is now an institution of fine arts and a welcoming tourist destination. The 55-acre estate features 13 gardens (all of different styles), an outdoor path of sculptures, art museum, and rich history.
The gardens alone are enough to impress anyone with the slightest interest in horticulture, serving as a wondrous attraction for children, photographers and nature lovers alike.
The institution offers art and gardening education programs for kids and adults - as well as activities and displays year round for all ages. Music at Cheekwood serves as a laid-back venue for a versatile lineup and a relaxing evening of food, music and Nashville’s favorite beverages.
#9 The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge
The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge is located over the Cumberland River in Nashville, Tn. It was formerly known as the Sparkman Street Bridge, and later Shelby Street Bridge. The bridge was originally built in 1909 but has since been restored and converted into a walking bridge - making it one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world at 3,150 ft. (just over half a mile.)
Today the famous bridge is loved by locals and tourists alike, as it provides not only an amazing view but a convenient walking (or cycling) route from downtown into the residential suburbs of Nashville.
Because of its outstanding view overlooking the city, the bridge has been used to shoot numerous music videos and continues to be a popular tourist attraction.
Whether you’re looking to snap some photos or simply stretch your legs, the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge is a wonderful place to take in the beauty of Nashville.
#10 Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Easily the largest (and most popular) museum in Nashville, the Country Music Hall of Fame has been in operation since 1967. It is dedicated to preserving the history of country music, and therefore the history of Nashville.
A museum unlike any other, The Country Music Hall of Fame holds over 2.5 million artifacts, including the famous wall of golden records.
A must-see feature of the museum is the tour of RCA Studio B - rather, the recording studio where Elvis Presley recorded some of the top hits that revolutionized music, and so did many other legendary artists such as Dolly Parton, Waylon Jennings and Chet Atkins.
Of course there are a variety of tours and activities to choose from - along with ‘public programs’ such as live performances, talk shows and more.
If country music isn’t quite your bag - or you’re looking for something a little more specific - Nashville has a ton of other museums such as Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage, Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum, Lane Motor Museum, and the Nashville Parthenon to name a few.
Bonus - Blue House Artist Night at The Vinyl Lounge
Okay, okay, we know we said ten things, but let’s face it - there’s just SO much Nashville has to offer. So here it is - another fun activity you won’t want to miss!
Every Monday night at the Vinyl Lounge, Blue House Band hosts a special open mic artist night. It starts at 7pm and each week has a different artist feature. After that, the stage is open for full band open mic night. This is a great opportunity for up and coming artists to perform in front of a supportive community of artists. Also, a great chance to be one of the first to see some of these new artists who are on the road to stardom!
The event is sponsored by All She Wants Media, Nashville Pop, and Standard Proof Whiskey Co. with weekly Standard Proof drink specials included as well.
What Are You Waiting For? Plan Your Nashville Trip Now!
From cocktail classes with delicious Nashville made whiskey, to shows at The Ryman, hikes, zoo visits, and of course, music, there won’t be a moment of boredom during your stay in Nashville! Follow this guide and enjoy your visit to one of those most iconic places in the world. See you soon!
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