A Local Guide: Top Things to Do in Nashville, TN
With stellar food, lively music and a busy nightlife, the list of things to do in Nashville is endless. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite spots in Music City that you won’t want to miss on your next trip.
It’s no surprise that Nashville is one of the country's hottest travel destinations. The home of country music is an electric city full of culture, incredible food and some of the best live music in the world. We’re also proud to call Nashville home to Ariat’s largest brand shop, situated on Nashville’s iconic Broadway right in the heart of downtown.
There’s no shortage of things to do in Nashville, no matter what you’re into. The city combines an unparalleled history of music with an emerging art scene, world-renowned restaurants and one-of-a-kind entertainment offerings. To find out what locals do in Nashville, we recently spent a fun-filled weekend in Music City with local Ana Cahill. Here’s our round up of the best things to do in Nashville.
Nashville Travel Guide: For your morning coffee
For a morning jolt that’s simple but delicious, grab a cup of Elixr’s light-roasted coffee right across from Ariat on 5th & Broadway. (Pro tip: Elixr is one of the few places that will validate your parking in the nearby lot.) If you’re looking for a cup of joe like you’ve never seen before, head to Natura Nashville in the Dream hotel right off Broadway to find creative latte art. Or check out Moonshot Coffee Bar for fun and rotating seasonal recipes like Lucky Charms lattes.
Nashville Travel Guide: For a good time…
A Nashville guide wouldn’t be complete without the old school honky-tonks, modern rooftops, quirky pop-up bars or historic venues that make up the thriving Nashville nightlife. To start the night (or day) off slowly, check out The Blue Room (closed Sunday through Wednesday) inside Third Man Records, singer/songwriter Jack White’s indie record shop.
Other places to catch live country music are Robert’s Western World and AJ’s Good Time Bar—named for and owned by award-winning country artist Alan Jackson and situated in the oldest building on Broadway. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Nashville, you have to dance to the latest radio hits at Miranda Lambert’s Casa Rosa and Blake Shelton’s Ole Red.
You can catch live music pretty much anywhere on Broadway, but if you want a formal show experience, the Ryman Auditorium is one of Nashville’s most renowned venues. Formerly a church, the Ryman draws musical artists of all genres.
If you’re ready to step off Broadway and get a bird’s eye-view, head to the Bobby Hotel rooftop for outdoor games, seasonal cocktails and stunning skyline views. Just a short walk north from there is the Red Phone Booth, a hidden underground bar you can access from the red phone booth on Rosa Parks Blvd. Just make sure you have the password!
Nashville Travel Guide: To look the part…
Nashville keeps it country and is the perfect place to find a perfect pair of Western boots. During your daytime stroll downtown, stop by French’s Shoes & Boots for a large selection of Ariat boots and Western apparel and accessories. Boot Barn and Big Time Boots also offer a wide selection of Ariat clothing and boots in both classic and unique styles, so you’ll be sure to find the perfect fit for your time in Music City! And of course, for all the latest and greatest in cowboy boot styles and more, check out our largest Ariat Brand Shop, located at 5th & Broadway.
Nashville Travel Guide: For good eats…
One of Nashville’s greatest claims to fame is its incredible food. Any Nashville city guide would be remiss not to include the quintessential Nashville fried chicken. Stop by Hattie B’s on 5th & Broadway and enjoy some served up fresh and hot. Upstairs, you’ll also find Assembly Food Hall, complete with outposts of some of Nashville’s best restaurants. Head up one more floor to find Sixty Vines, a beautiful space with over 60 wines on tap. The Hampton Social, just a few blocks south, is another local favorite known for refreshing frosé.
Nashville Travel Guide: For when you’re ready for a break from the hustle & bustle…
Nashville has so much to offer beyond its downtown attractions. For a breath of fresh air, if you’re ready to experience Nashville like a local, head to Arrington Vineyards to spend the day picnicking, enjoying the views and tasting a wide selection of wines. Co-owner Kix Brooks, best known for being one-half of the iconic country music duo Brooks & Dunn, is known to make appearances at the live music shows.
In East Nashville, don’t miss the GreenHouse Bar for fresh fruit sangria. Then swing into another locally owned bar, The Fox, for espresso martinis and fun snacks like gourmet popcorn and vegan charcuterie.
Keep your Nashville visitor’s guide on hand and saddle up for a fun-filled trip to Music City. Don’t forget to tag us in your adventures with #AriatNashville or #myAriat!
