If you’re a lover of country music, then a trip to Nashville, the Country Music Capital of the World, has to be at the top of your bucket list! From the best bars in downtown Nashville to the southern comfort foods, a trip to Nashville will be one you’ll never forget! And one of the best aspects about Nashville is that it’s a city that’s packed with lots to do, yet it’s not so big of a city that’s overwhelming. This means that if your visit is reduced to a weekend visit, you’ll still be able to see and do a lot without feeling slighted.
To make the most out of your weekend trip to Music City and avoid feelings of FOMO (fear of missing out), check out these top locations to visit while you’re here in Nashville.
The Stage on Broadway
When it comes to live music bars in Nashville, The Stage on Broadway is by far one of the best bars in downtown Nashville. Located on the lower end of Broadway, The Stage offers a unique live music experience. Not only will you get to see performances from local artists, but it’s also not uncommon for some of country music’s biggest names to drop in and surprise bar-goers with live performances. You just never know who may show up and literally “grace the stage!”
Upon entering this edgy bar, you’ll immediately notice an original oil painting of The Highwaymen that once belonged to Waylon Jennings and hung in his home. Today, you can find this famous painting right above the door in The Stage. If that’s not enough country music history for you’ll be surprised to know how many movies, TV shows, and music videos were filmed here as well, making it one of the most famous bars in Nashville!
For cold beer, stiff drinks, and “feel good” live country music, The Stage on Broadway is everywhere you want to be!
The Parthenon
If going to the Parthenon has always been a dream of yours, you don’t have to go all the way to Athens, Greece... Instead, just head on over to Nashville! Fun fact: did you know Nashville is known as the “Athens of the South?”
Located in Centennial Park, the Parthenon is one of Nashville’s most unique structures. It’s the world’s only exact-size and detailed replica of the historic temple. The interior of the Parthenon is not an exact replica. Inside, there’s three levels. Upon entering the first level, you’ll find different artifacts and memorabilia of early Nashville. On the second level, you’ll find an art gallery full of work from local Nashville artists. On the third and last level, stands the iconic 42-foot-tall statue of the Greek goddess Athena.
If you’re looking for a fun and interesting way to explore Nashville and escape the crowds, the Parthenon is a beautiful escape.
The Grand Ole Opry
To hear of the Grand Ole Opry is one thing, but to experience it is a completely different story. This iconic venue is one of the biggest attractions of Nashville, making it a must-see for a weekend trip. From the likes of Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton to Little Big Town and Carrie Underwood, all the country music greats have graced the stage at the Grand Ole Opry. Additionally, besides attending concerts at the venue, you can also take a backstage tour and see the dressing rooms, historic memorabilia such as records and performance outfits of country music superstars and stand on the iconic circle at the center of the stage.
Nashville Murals
Nashville has a great appreciation for street art, and so much so that the murals have become an iconic must-see when visiting the city. The most popular creation is the “What Lifts You” mural by Kelsey Montague, as well as the “I Believe in Nashville” mural. People stand in line just to get a few shots in front of these Instagram-able creations. When you make your way to Nashville, be sure to stop in the Gulch and the 12 South neighborhood for your chance to snap it up in front of these murals!
Nashville Awaits You!
Of course, there is so much more to see and do in Nashville, but the locations listed above are located in iconic areas of Nashville, and even when you finish exploring that particular venue or landmark, you can still see and do so much more in the surrounding area. For instance, if you want to have a good time at The Stage on Broadway, you can do that, and then explore more of Broadway!
The bottom line is that the locations listed above do a pretty good job of giving you an overall feel of Nashville when all you have is the weekend to explore the city. With these locations, there are also great dining locations as well, so you’ll not only be entertained, but also be fed a heaping plate full of southern comfort foods as well.
So, what are you waiting for? Nashville is waiting for you!