Choose Your Middle Tennessee Winter Vacation

Sadie’s, a Mediterranean restaurant near Music Row serves lunch, dinner and weekend brunch along with an extensive list of cocktails, mocktails, beers, ciders and seltzers. Try sweet and refreshing The Daisy with honeysuckle vodka, grenadine, fresh lime juice and a splash of soda or the Nashville Old Fashioned featuring bourbon whiskey, demerara, angostura and Regan’s bitters. Happy Hour is Monday-Thursday, 4-6 p.m.

• Hours: Open daily for split-service hours (lunch/brunch and dinner). Weekday lunch is 11:00 AM–2:00 PM, and dinner is 4:00 PM–9:00 PM. Weekend brunch starts at 10:00 AM.
• Parking: Available via a paid lot directly across the street or free street parking nearby (can be busy).
• Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible, including the entrance, seating, parking spaces, and restroom.

Follow the scent of donuts to Five Daughters Bakery in The Factory At Franklin for seasonal flavors that rotate each month. Enjoy delicious 100-layor donuts handcrafted fresh each day. Order a variety half or full dozen to try a bit of everything from s’mores to huckleberry glaze, cinnamon sugar toast and salted caramel apple. 

• Hours: Open daily until 9:00 PM. Weekdays are 7:00 AM–9:00 PM, and weekends (Saturday & Sunday) are 8:00 AM–9:00 PM.
• Parking: Located inside The Factory at Franklin, which offers complimentary free parking in a large lot. Valet parking is also available on Thursday through Saturday evenings for a fee. Note: Parking can be challenging on busy days, particularly Saturday mornings during the Farmers Market.
• Accessibility: The location is fully wheelchair accessible, including a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking spaces, and restroom.

Open nightly through Jan. 3, 2026, Christmas on the Cumberland dazzles kids of all ages with over 1 million lights at McGregor Park and Cumberland Riverwalk. Grab a hot chocolate and stroll the streets, pausing to take festive photos. 

• Hours: The light display is free and open daily from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM (until early January).
• Parking: Parking is generally free. On special event nights (like the Grand Opening), general parking is closed inside McGregor Park, and visitors must use alternative parking in the surrounding area.
• Accessibility: ADA parking is available inside McGregor Park, even when other parking is restricted. The event is set up along the scenic riverwalk, making it accessible.

Follow the neon lights to Printer’s Alley in downtown Nashville for a fun time dancing to music and eating amazing food. Hear live jazz bands at Skull’s Rainbow Room. Enjoy delicious food at Black Rabbit, a cocktail bar and restaurant or at Gray and Dudley, a re-imaged restaurant and lounge inside the former Gray & Dudley Hardware Company featuring southern dishes and a great weekend brunch. Kick up your feet at Bourbon Street Blues Bar and DJ performances with a Las Vegas-style night club vibe at Dirty Little Secret. 

• Hours: As a public street, the alley is accessible 24/7, but its nightlife establishments (bars and restaurants) are generally open from 11:00 AM until 2:00 AM daily.
• Parking: There is no on-site parking in the alley itself. Paid public parking is available at nearby facilities, most notably the Printers Alley Garage (314 Church St), which is a very short walk away.
• Accessibility: The nearby parking garages, including the Printers Alley Garage, provide disabled parking spaces. As a historic downtown area, the main alley is generally accessible, but visitors should check individual venues for specific entrance accessibility.

Take part in a Nashville holiday tradition by attending the annual Amy Grant & Vince Gill Christmas at the Ryman. The powerhouse husband-and-wife duo fill their 12 concerts with Christmas favorites like “Tennessee Christmas,” “Let It Snow” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” The concerts will take place Dec. 10-20, 2025 at Ryman Auditorium and tickets are on sale now. 

• Showtime & Doors: The evening performances for this residency typically start at 7:30 PM, with doors opening one hour prior (around 6:30 PM). Matinee performances start at 3:00 PM. Always confirm the exact time on your ticket.
• Parking: The Ryman Auditorium does not have its own lot. The easiest self-parking option is the Fifth + Broadway Garage (179 Rep. John Lewis Way N), located directly across the street. It is highly recommended to reserve parking in advance, as event nights are very busy.
• Accessibility: Accessible seating is available on the Main Floor and Balcony. Be sure to select the "Accessibility" option when purchasing tickets online, or call the box office at (615) 889-3060 to ensure arrangements are made for wheelchair seating or other mobility needs.

In the stunning, historic Temple Theatre in Portland, Tennessee, enjoy holiday favorites and Christmas programming including the Carpenters Christmas Featuring Janet Clazzy and Isabella Cring, The Ornaments Present A Charlie Brown Christmas, "A Series of Dramatic Readings of Popular Christmas Stories" Benefitting the Temple Theatre as well as Christmas movie classics.

• Showtime: Performance times vary significantly depending on the event type and day, ranging from 10:00 AM morning screenings (for family films) to afternoon matinees (2:30 PM - 4:00 PM) and the most common 7:00 PM evening shows. Always confirm the exact start time on your ticket for the specific event.
• Parking: Convenient, free public parking is available in the downtown area, with a designated lot located directly behind the Temple Theatre at the Portland City Hall building.
• Accessibility: The venue is designed to be fully accessible, featuring a street-level entrance for easy access and an elevator that provides full mobility to the auditorium and all restroom facilities.

Another Nashville tradition is seeing the Nashville Ballet perform “Nashville’s Nutcracker” Nov 29 - Dec. 28, 2025. The unique rendition of the classic feature characters from the city’s history, stunning costumes, live music from the Nashville Symphony and original choreography by Artistic Director Emeritus, Paul Vasterling. 

• Showtime: Performance times vary significantly, ranging from afternoon matinees (typically 1:00 PM or 2:00 PM) to evening shows (6:30 PM or 7:00 PM). The show runs approximately 1 hour and 42 minutes, plus a 20-minute intermission. Always confirm the specific time on your ticket.
• Parking: Valet parking is available for most evening shows on 6th Avenue for a fee (not available for weekday matinees). Free self-parking is available in state-owned lots behind the Supreme Court Building after 6:00 PM on performance nights. Paid garage parking is also available nearby (e.g., Nashville City Center Garage).
• Accessibility: The venue is highly accessible, offering accessible seating in the Orchestra and Tier levels of Jackson Hall. Elevators provide access to all levels. Accessible parking is designated on the north side of 6th Avenue, and TPAC is also a KultureCity-certified sensory-inclusive venue.

Stillhouse Hollow Falls is a 90-acre state natural area full of streams, small and large waterfalls and seeps. There are two trails that lead to the falls. The Stillhouse Hollow Falls Trail is rated easy and is 2/3 of a mile (about 36 minutes) and is very popular for birding and hiking. The Stillhouse Hollow Falls Trail to Elk Ridge Trail Loop is considered a moderate hiking trail 1.7 miles in length. The trail includes a hike to the falls, then returning to the trailhead via the Elk Ridge Trail that loops over a forested ridge. 

• Hours of Operation: The natural area is generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily and the falls are generally open from dawn to dusk.
• Accessibility & Trail: The main trail is a moderate 0.8-mile roundtrip hike that descends to the 75-foot waterfall. The trail is natural surface, containing steep sections, uneven terrain, and rocks, which makes it not wheelchair accessible and challenging for those with limited mobility.
• Cost & Amenities: There is no admission fee to visit this State Natural Area. Amenities are very limited, typically consisting of a small parking area at the trailhead. 

Want to meet a highland cow? Head to Mill Creek Farm in Cookeville. This beautiful farm has tour opportunities where you can brush, feed and take your own photos with some of the friendly cows. There are two farm tours available – a 30-minute session for up to four people and a 60-minute behind-the-scenes tour for up to four people with a pasture visit. Get a photo with an adorable cow and learn more about these incredible animals. Bonus! Calves are usually born in the winter, so you have a higher chance of meeting the babies in January – February. 

• Hours: All visits are by appointment only. The farm is not open to the general public for walk-ins. You must book a tour, event (like "Cocoa and Cows" or "Hangout with the Highlands"), or photography session in advance on their website. Tours typically last one to two hours and allow guests to get up close with the friendly Highland cows to feed, brush, and take photos with them.
• Parking: As a family-owned farm, there is ample on-site parking for booked guests.
• Accessibility: Due to the nature of a working farm, the experience involves an outdoor farm environment with natural, uneven terrain, and is not wheelchair accessible. Visitors are advised to wear closed-toe shoes. If there is light rain, the tour will be moved into a covered barn area. Pets are not allowed on the farm tours.

Fill up on Christmas cheer with a festive drive through The Upper Cumberland Christmas Light Show beginning Nov. 10, 2025. Cookeville's newest holiday tradition takes you through thousands of lights, twinkling displays and holiday scenes all from the comfort of your car.  

• Showtime: The show is a seasonal drive-through event that runs nightly until January 5,  weekdays from 5–10 PM and weekends from 5–11 PM at the Putnam County Fairgrounds.
• Parking: As a drive-through experience, your vehicle is your parking/viewing space throughout the route, and the Fairgrounds offer ample vehicle staging and driving space.
• Accessibility: The event is highly accessible, as the entire experience is viewed from inside your personal vehicle, requiring only that the vehicle be standard height for the course.

Embrace the joy of the season by participating in Nashville’s holiday tradition, Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens featuring over 1 million twinkling lights throughout the garden. Stop by the firepits for a delicious s’more and festive cocktail. Browse the Holiday Marketplace for unique gifts from makers around the region. It’s a great way to make holiday memories with loved ones.

• Showtime: The event is a timed-ticketed, one-mile walk-through experience that typically runs seven nights a week from late November through early January, with evening hours from 4:30 PM to 10:00 PM (last entry at 8:30 PM).
• Parking: Non-members must pay a $5 parking fee per vehicle, and guests are encouraged to use rideshare services as parking may be limited and overflow spots may require a longer walk to the entrance.
• Accessibility: The one-mile path is a walking experience on paved pathways, and while the Historic Mansion and main buildings are wheelchair-accessible (with an elevator and available courtesy wheelchairs), the grounds feature historic, changing elevations, which can present challenges.

New for Christmas at Gaylord Opryland, ICE! Featuring "A Charlie Brown Christmas!" arrives as magnificent, 2 million-pound ice sculptures. Blue parkas are provided as you walk through the immersive 9-degree whimsical scenes inspired by the Christmas movie. After your visit, warm up with hot chocolate, gift shopping and marvel at the millions of lights throughout Gaylord Opryland. 

• Timing: The event runs seasonally (typically early November through early January). Entry is via timed tickets purchased online in advance. The exhibit is kept at 9°F, so dress accordingly, and takes approximately 20–40 minutes to walk through.
• Parking: Parking at Gaylord Opryland is paid (self-parking $37+). It is recommended to prepay or use the adjacent free Opry Mills Mall lot for the closest walk to the Event Center. Resort access is restricted on peak dates without a ticket.
• Accessibility: The main exhibit is ADA compliant and wheelchair accessible (parkas provided). However, the iconic ice slides are not accessible, and visitors must wear closed-toe shoes and should bring hats and gloves for the cold.

Cheer on the Nashville Predators as they battle for hockey wins at Bridgestone Arena. The famous fanbase will have the place roaring with chants, songs and cheers. The last home game is April 2026, so you have many chances to see them play in person. It’s a great way to spend a winter night in Nashville.

• Game Time & Doors: Games typically start at 7:00 PM, though weekend times vary (check your ticket). Doors open 90 minutes (1.5 hours) prior to the scheduled puck drop, allowing fans to watch warm-ups. The arena is a cashless venue.
• Parking: Numerous paid garages are available downtown, but the most cost-effective option is complimentary parking in Lot R at Nissan Stadium, which includes a free two-way BEEP shuttle service to the arena (opens 2 hours before the game).
• Accessibility: The arena is fully ADA compliant with accessible seating on every level. Accessible entrances are available at the Nissan Main and SoBro entrances. Courtesy wheelchairs and sensory bags are available for check-out at Guest Services (Section 103).

Cozy up at The Harpeth Hotel, conveniently close to Franklin’s historic Main Street. The boutique hotel offers 119 guest rooms and suites along with amazing food and cocktails at 1799 Kitchen & Cocktails, the hotel’s restaurant and bar. When you’re ready to unwind, climb into a king or queen size bed and enjoy the timeless comforts like robes, slippers and oversized bathrooms. The suites include spacious rooms with a separate living and entertainment suite with a king or two queen beds, a luxe bathroom with oversized showers, soaking tubs and incredible view of downtown Franklin. 

• Accommodation & Style: The Harpeth Hotel is a 4-star, Curio Collection by Hilton property. It offers sophisticated rooms, a full-service restaurant, a café/bar, and a gym, embodying a blend of historic charm and modern luxury.
• Location: The hotel is situated in historic downtown Franklin, offering guests easy walking access to the area's boutique shops, restaurants, and historical sites.
• Price/Rating: A typical nightly price for a one-night stay is around $355 (USD). It is highly rated by guests, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on hundreds of reviews.

The sleek Hotel Fraye is a perfect stay when you’re in downtown Nashville. The city’s history and electric energy blend to create ultra-luxe accommodations with amazing rooftop views , elegant rooms and suites and amazing food at the hyper-local Gathre restaurant and the poolside cocktail bar, Eddie Ate Dynamite. Enjoy rooms with a waterfall glass-enclosed shower, Netflix streaming SMART TV, floor-to-ceiling windows and free wi-fi. The King Suite can include a Peloton bicycle so you can stay fit while traveling (must call sales team for availability).

• Amenities: The hotel features a rooftop pool, a full-service modern restaurant, and a bar. It also includes an on-site fitness center.
• Location: Hotel Fraye is situated in the Midtown/West End area of Nashville, offering convenient access to Vanderbilt University, the Music Row area, and a short drive to the downtown honky-tonks.
• Price/Rating: A typical nightly rate for a one-night stay is approximately $313 (USD). It holds a strong rating from guests, with a 4.4 out of 5 based on hundreds of reviews.

Your Glamping Adventure has two properties and their newest, Morning Mist at Five Meadows Farm, is a spacious glamping dome overlooking incredible mountain and lake views. Outdoor features include a hot tub, wood burning fire pit, gas fire pit, cornhole, Bocce ball and an outdoor dining area. The kitchen is equipped with a Keurig, toaster oven, basic cookware including pots and pans, microwave, induction stove and more. There’s indoor fireplace and queen and king size beds. Hike, fish, explore downtown Smithville and relax in this quiet getaway. 

• Hours & Booking: The experience is a private, remote accommodation that requires advance booking. Contactless check-in starts at 4:00 PM and check-out is typically 11:00 AM; guest services are generally available until 10:00 PM.
• Parking: Parking is available in a shared, designated lot or field. Be prepared for a walk of approximately 100 yards from the parking area to your specific unit, although luggage carts are provided to assist with bags.
• Accessibility: Due to the remote, secluded nature of the property (often involving stairs, steps, and natural/uneven terrain), the accommodations are not wheelchair accessible or recommended for those with significant mobility issues.

Immerse yourself in the legacy and celebration of the accomplishments of the many music genres created, influences and inspired by African Americans when you visit the National Museum of African American Music. Dance through the American Soundtrack through interactive technology and engaging exhibits. The unique story flows through the Rivers of Rhythm Pathway that touches on the beginnings of American music, through blues, hip-hop and R&B. 

• Hours & Admission: The museum is open six days a week (closed Mondays), from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (noon opening on Sunday). Adult admission is typically around $33 and includes an interactive RFID wristband.
• Parking: Paid parking is available at the adjacent Fifth + Broadway garage (598 Broadway). Visitors can receive a discounted flat rate of $22 by validating their parking ticket inside the NMAAM lobby.
• Accessibility: The museum is fully ADA compliant with wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and galleries. Elevators provide access to all levels, and strollers are welcome throughout the museum.

There’s always something new on view at the Frist Art Museum. Step inside the beautiful space during the winter months to enjoy art from nationally and internationally acclaimed artists. Once you’re inspired, visit the interactive Martin ArtQuest Gallery to create your own art piece. It’s a great time for kids and adults.

• Hours & Admission: The museum is open six days a week (closed Tuesdays). General admission for adults is $20, but is always free for guests 18 and younger, members, and certain cardholders (such as EBT/SNAP/WIC).
• Location & Parking: Located at 919 Broadway in a historic Art Deco building. On-site parking is available for a reduced rate of $3 per hour (for up to three hours) with validation.
• Accessibility: The museum is fully wheelchair accessible and offers wheelchairs free of charge.