Nashville at night

Your Nashville Travel Guide

Discover what Nashville is known for, full of music, delicious food, rich history and scenic views..

Travel Inspiration From Amanda Burton

It’s always a good time to visit Nashville, home to a plethora of music, culture, delicious food, rich African American history and lots of opportunities to take in the scenery. This travel guide breaks down what to see, food and things to do in Nashville during the day and night.

Grab A Table at Nashville Restaurants

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What to know before you go to Prince's Hot Chicken

Prince's Hot Chicken
Prince's Hot Chicken in Nashville, Tennessee.
Photo Credit: DAWN MAJORS

The grandfather of all hot chicken, Prince’s Hot Chicken is one of the things Nashville is known for. The restaurant serves up the flaming stuff to eager locals and travelers alike. This mouthwatering chicken isn’t for the faint of heart, but it sure will have you coming back for more.

  • Parking information: The Assembly Food Hall location has paid garage parking. The Nolensville Pike location has a parking lot.
     
  • Accessibility features: Both locations are wheelchair accessible.
     
  • Operational hours:
    Prince's Hot Chicken South (Nolensville Pike): 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday-Saturday
    Prince's Hot Chicken Assembly Food Hall: 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 10:30 a.m. to midnight Friday-Saturday
     
  • Menu highlights: Order hot chicken at any spice level from plain to mild, medium, hot, XHot and XXXHot. 
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Things to know before going to Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint

Barbecue from Martin's BBQ in Nashville TN
Photo Credit: @td2timemvp

 

Specializing in whole hog barbecue, Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint is a local favorite known for its tender and delicious meats from ribs, chicken and whole pork shoulders. 

  • Parking information: All locations offer free parking onsite except for the downtown Nashville location which has several pay-to-park options nearby.
     
  • Accessibility features: 
    Downtown Nashville location: ADA compliant main entrance with no stairs or steps, accessible parking near entrance and ADA compliant restroom
    Belmont location: Wheelchair accessible
    Midtown location: Wheelchair accessible
     
  • Operational hours:
    Downtown Nashville: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday-Saturday
    Belmont: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily
    Midtown: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily
     
  • Menu highlights: Savor smoked wings, barbecue nachos and brisket tacos as well as pulled pork, smoked bologna and fried catfish. You'll also want to try scratch-made sides like baked beans, mac & cheese, green beans, hushpuppies and potato salad.
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Important information for 5th & Taylor

Brunch at 5th & Taylor in Nashville, TN
Brunch at 5th & Taylor in Nashville, Tennessee.
Photo Credit: Josh Ness/@theexplorerdad

 

Dine under the watchful eye of General Francis Nash's life-size sculpture (Nashville's namesake) at 5th & Taylor while savoring dishes inspired by Chef Daniel Lindley's childhood Sunday dinners. 

  • Parking: 5th & Taylor has complimentary valet and a dedicated parking lot behind the restaurant. Nearby paid lots and street parking are also available. Rideshare is encouraged.
     
  • Accessibility: 5th & Taylor is wheelchair accessible
     
  • Operational hours: 5-8:30 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 4:45-9:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday
     
  • Menu highlights: The dishes featured are like a warm hug - sausage-cheddar biscuits, bacon wrapped quail and duck wings with spiced honey for appetizers; and entrees like short rib, fried chicken, scallops and beef cheek pot roast with heirloom carrots and Cipollini onions. Save room for delicious desserts including cobblers, house-made ice cream and chocolate trifle.
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What to know before you go to Chauhan Ale & Masala House

Indian cuisine from Chauhan Ale and Masala House in Nashville TN
Indian cuisine at Chauhan Ale And Masala House in Nashville, Tennessee.
Photo Credit: Josh Ness

 

Founded by celebrity chef Maneet Chauhan, Chauhan Ale & Masala House transports your taste buds to the finest Indian cuisine and cocktails. The menu is a fusion of Indian cuisine with Southern dishes. 

  • Parking: $12 parking available via the Whole Foods parking garage. Bring your parking ticket to the host stand to receive the $12 rate.
     
  • Accessibility: Chauhan Ale & Masala House is wheelchair accessible.
     
  • Operational hours:
    Happy hour: 4:30-5:30 p.m. Sunday-Thursday
    11 a.m. to 2 p.m., 4:30-9:30 p.m. Sunday-Thursday
    11 a.m. to 2 p.m., 4:30-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday
     
  • Menu highlights: Starters include Nashville hot cauliflower pakoras and pork keema papadi nachos stuffed with pork, tamarind chutney, Provel cheese and cucumber tomato kachumber. Entrees include tandoori chicken, masala braised lamb, tamarind lamb chops and braised pork shank.
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Things to know before going to The Cupcake Collection

Cupcakes from Cupcake Collection in Nashville TN
Photo Credit: @nashvillebuylocal

 

For a sweet start or end to your day, head over to The Cupcake Collection where locals and travelers come for the sugary confections packed with flavor. These aren’t your everyday cupcakes as Mignon Francois and her team craft delicious cupcakes in a variety of flavors. 

  • Parking: Nearby street parking is available. Rideshair is highly encouraged.
     
  • Accessibility: The Cupcake Collection is wheelchair accessible.
     
  • Operational hours: 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday
     
  • Menu highlights: Cupcake flavors change seasonally, but include sweet potato, red velvet, cookies n’ cream, strawberry lemonade and birthday cake.
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Important information on Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria

Crispy crusted pizza, Steaming Hot from the oven, Pepperoni, mozzarella,  Smells like you’re in heaven, Spinach, basil, pesto, Jalapeño ranch, You’re gonna want to dig in here, As often as you can. Written about Slim and Husky’s Pizza Beeria in Nashville, Tennessee.
Find cheesy and delicious pizza in Nashville.
Photo Credit: Kay + Si Miller

 

Started by three Nashville natives and Tennessee State University graduates, Slim & Husky’s serves up deliciously cheesy pizza and local craft beers.  

  • Parking: A parking lot is located onsite.
     
  • Accessibility: Slim & Husky's is wheelchair accessible.
     
  • Operational hours: 
    11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday
    11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday-Saturday
     
  • Menu highlights: Artisan pizzas include Rony, Roni, Rone that has three types of pepperoni on top, Red Light Special, their take on a Margarita pizza or the Nothin But A “V” Thang which includes vegan cheese, onions, peppers, corn and a bean Ragu.
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What to know before you go to Bolton's Spicy Chicken & Fish

Hot chicken from Bolton's Spicy Chicken & Fish in Nashville TN
Photo Credit: @draskojankovic

 

Bolton’s Spicy Chicken & Fish is the place to go when you’re craving catfish, hot chicken, wings, ribs, seafood or sandwiches. You can’t order wrong here. 

  • Parking: Parking is available onsite.
     
  • Accessibility: Bolton's Spicy Chicken & Fish is wheelchair accessible.|
     
  • Operational hours: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday
     
  • Menu highlights: Try the hot chicken sandwich or tenders with potato salad, spaghetti or mac and cheese. The spicy catfish plate is a must-try while the slab of ribs will have you wanting seconds.

Entertainment in Nashville

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Things to know before going to The Bluebird Cafe

Songs cover these walls that have listened for years, A number have gone number one on the charts, You’ll be blown away by the stories you hear, And you’ll realize that every song comes from a heart. Written about a singer performing at Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, Tennessee.
Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, Tennessee.
Photo Credit: Journal Communications Inc.

One of the world's preeminent listening rooms, The Bluebird Cafe has gained worldwide recognition as a songwriter's performance space. The 90-seat venue hosts songwriters who've penned hits by chart-topping artists in all genres of music. Come hear songs performed by the creators themselves and the stories behind how the songs came to be. It's an iconic venue to see in Nashville.

  • Parking information: Limited parking is available onsite. A larger gravel lot is located behind the cafe.
     
  • Accessibility: There is a ramp that leads to the entrance of The Bluebird Cafe. Limited availability for wheelchair accessible seating is assigned on a first come, first serve basis. Give the venue two weeks' notice and the venue can accommodate up to two seats per show, a wheelchair accessible seat and a companion. 
     
  • Operational hours: Sunday Early Show - Sunday Spotlight: doors open at 5 p.m., show at 6 p.m. Late Show - Sunday Writers’ Night: doors open at 7:30 p.m., show at 8 p.m.
    Monday: Early Show - Open Mic Night: doors open at 5:30pm, show at 6 p.m. Late Show - Blue Monday: doors open at 8:30 p.m., show at 9 p.m.
    Tuesday-Saturday: Early Show - doors open at 5 p.m., show at 6 p.m. Late Show - doors open at 8:30 p.m.; show at 9 p.m.
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Important information on Grand Ole Opry

Live music at The Grand Ole Opry in Nashville TN
Maggie Rose performs at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee.
Photo Credit: Journal Communications Inc/Jeff Adkins

See a show at the home of country music, the Grand Ole Opry, what Nashville is known for. The longest-running live radio program in the world features country legends and tomorrow's stars. See the show, then take a backstage tour to see dressing rooms, artists tuning their instruments and hear the history of this national treasure.

  • Parking: Parking can be booked in advance. Enter the Opry Mills area and watch for the Opery House Paid Parking signs. Passes are valid for one entry and one exit. You must keep your parking pass to scan to exit the lot. 
     
  • Accessibility: Accessible seating is avialable through select ticket purchase. Accessible parking spots are available onsite and the venue is fully wheelchair accessible.
     
  • Operational hours:
    Box office hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (extended to 7:30 p.m. on show days)
    Opry Shop hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (extended to 9:30 p.m. on show days)
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What to know before you go to The Station Inn

Traditional country music at The Station Inn in Nashville TN
Jeff White & Friends performing at The Station Inn in Nashville, Tennessee.
Photo Credit: Josh Ness

 

The Station Inn is Nashville's bluegrass-hosting concert venue. The music venue has hosted some of the best bluegrass anywhere. Notable artists such as Gillian Welch, Ralph Stanley, Dolly Parton, Randy Travis and Reba McEntire have performed at The Station Inn.

  • Parking: Limited gravel lot parking is located behind The Station Inn. Paid parking is available in paid lots and garages around the venue.
     
  • Accessibility: The Station Inn is completely handicap accessible. A ramp leads to the front door and the venue is on a single floor.
     
  • Operational hours: 7 p.m. to midnight daily
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Things to know before going to Ryman Auditorium

Old worn pews, stained glass windows shine bright, Tradition and songs on a Saturday night, Shoulder to shoulder, hearts pound in the crowd, The magic of music is alive in the house. Written about The Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee.
Take in a show at one of the most prestigious venues in the world.
Photo Credit: Journal Communications Inc./Jeffrey S. Otto

 

One of the most celebrated music venues in modern music, the Ryman Auditorium is a National Historic Landmark. Take a self-guided tour or a guided backstage tour through dressing rooms dedicated to Johnny Cash, Minnie Pearl and Hank Williams. See the immersive "Soul of Nashville," a unique theater experience and you can even make your own record. Cut your rendition of a classic song or bring you own composition to the Ryman's Air Castle Studios to bring it to life.

  • Parking: Self-Parking for all Ryman events is available directly across the street at the Fifth + Broadway garage.
     
  • Accessibility: Complimentary wheelchairs are available during shows. Wheelchair accessible seating is available for every public event at the Ryman on the Main Floor and Balcony when purchasing tickets. The venue is wheelchair accessible and offers an elevator to the Balcony seating. An elevator is available backstage for the Backstage Tour experience. Service animals and guide dogs are welcome.
     
  • Operational hours: Daytime tours are hosted 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Show doors typically open one hour before showtime.
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Important information for City Winery

Wine taste with Nashville's skyline as your backdrop at City Winery, TN
Photo Credit: @citywinerynsh

 

Some of the world’s most respected artists perform at City Winery. The establishment’s eclectic list gives visitors ample reasons to return. Audio acoustics are prime thanks to Meyer Sound. Guests are treated to an intimate setting and comfortable views of the stage. A full menu and drink list is available for you to make it a concert to remember. A balcony area and attached skybox are also available.

  • Parking: Self-parking or valet is available, depending on the night. If valet service is available, it starts at 4 p.m. and is $20. Self-parking lot rates range from $12-20.
     
  • Accessibility: City Winery is wheelchair accessible. Accessible seating for shows is available. Please contact City Winery if you need accessible accommodations for general admission or standing room only events. Service animals are welcome at City Winery. Earplugs are available at the box office. Servers can read menu options for sight-impaired guests. Sign language interpreters can be coordinated for events 2 weeks in advance.
     
  • Operational hours: 
    Happy Hour: 4-6 p.m. Monday-Friday
    4-10 p.m. Monday-Friday
    10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday-Sunday
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What to know before you go to Marathon Music Works

A musician performing at Marathon Music Works in Nashville TN
Photo Credit: @cherryyphotos

 

See bands and artists like H.E.R., Tamia, Dirty Heads, Elle King, 6LACK, Kamasi Washington, Jungle and many more at Marathon Music Works, a versatile venue with wide spaces, exposed brick walls and a cool steel beam ceiling. Enjoy an intimate performance from some of your favorite artists while enjoying Tito’s Lounge and William Collier’s which is connected to Marathon Music Works.

  • Parking: Rideshare is highly encouraged. Limited street parking and paid lot parking is available onsite.
     
  • Accessibility: Marathon Music Works is a part of The Rockin' Chair, a venue database with information about the accommodations for all disabilities. Marathon Music Works has an open floor design with interior ramps, accessible bathrooms, sidewalks, floor access, wheelchair seats, wheelchair level food/drink counters, companion seats, strobe light warnings, sign interpreters available upon request, good house lighting, well-lit pathways, and video camera usage dependent on show.
     
  • Operational hours: Box office is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Show doors typically open 30-60 minutes before showtime.
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Things to know before going to Zanies Comedy Night Club

Zanie's Comedy Night Club in Nashville TN
Photo Credit: @gingernation96

 

Kick back and have a laugh! Go to Zanies Comedy Night Club to catch touring comedians like Brad Sativa, Arnez J, Chelsea Handler, Bruce Bruce, The Hodge Twins, Nick Mullen, Tommy Davidson and so many more. Located on 8th Ave S, outside of downtown Nashville, Zanies is an intimate, phone-free venue. Before each show guests secure their phones and smart watches in Yondr cases, accessing them only at Phone Use Areas in the venue. This ensures a quality comedy experience for everyone.

  • Parking: Free parking is available in the parking lots behind Zanies, in the grassy and unpaved areas around the house and on adjacent streets.
     
  • Accessibility: Zanies' main showroom and smaller showroom are accessible. Call the box office at 615-269-0221 for accessible accommodations.
     
  • Operational hours: Doors typically open 6 p.m. with shows at 7 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 5:30 p.m. and 8:45 p.m. with shows starting at 7 p.m. and 9:15 p.m. Friday-Saturday; doors at 5 p.m. and show starts at 6 p.m. Sunday
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Important information for 3rd and Lindsley

The kick drums thumps, the amps start to buzz, Here at the corner of Lindsley and Third, The talent, the voices that called this place home, Are nothing like you’ve ever heard.  Written about Third and Lindsley music venue in Nashville, Tennessee.
3rd & Lindsley
Photo Credit: @LEEELMII

 

If you're looking for what to do in Nashville tonight, kick back and take in a show at 3rd & Lindsley with music like rock, country, Americana, soul and blues. See performances by The Time Jumpers, Kyla Jade, Don Flemons, Emily Hackett, Vinyl Radio, The New Respects, and many more. With a full list of draft beers, wine and cocktails, it’s easy to make this venue your new hangout spot.

  • Parking: Free parking is available around the venue, though it can fill up quickly during big shows; be careful to avoid marked towing zones in adjacent private lots.
     
  • Accessibility: 3rd & Lindsley is a handicapped accessible facility. Please call or e-mail the venue ahead of time to make accommodations.
     
  • Operational hours: Open nightly, with lunch service starting at 11am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Experience Nashville Outdoors

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What to know before you go to Ted Rhodes Golf Course

Ted Rhodes Golf Course in Nashville
Photo Credit: @glazinfairways

One of the things to do in Nashville during the day is to spend a relaxing day on the green at Ted Rhodes Golf Course located in North Nashville, named after famous African-American professional golfer Theodore Rhodes. Here, the 18-hole course features bunkers, lakes and large greens that provide a great experience for golfers. As you play, you’ll likely see fish, beavers, turtles and more.

  • Parking: Parking is available onsite.
     
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible parking lot and entrance. Contact the course at 615-862-8463 for accessibility accommodations.
     
  • Operational hours:
    May 1-Labor Day: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday-Sunday
    Tuesday after Labor Day-Sept. 30: 7:30 a.m. to dark Monday-Friday; 6:30 a.m. to dark Saturday-Sunday
    Oct. 1-31: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday
    Nov. 1-first Sunday in December: 7:30 a.m. to dark Monday-Friday; 7 a.m. to dark Saturday-Sunday
    First Monday in December-Jan. 31: 8 a.m. to dark Monday-Friday; 7 a.m. to dark Saturday-Sunday
    Feb. 1-Saturday of Daylight Savings Time weekend in March: 8 a.m. to dark Monday-Friday; 7 a.m. to dark Saturday-Sunday
    Sunday of Daylight Savings Time: 8 a.m. to dark Monday-Friday; 7 a.m. to dark Saturday-Sunday
    April 1-30: 7:30 a.m. to dark Monday-Friday; 7 a.m. to dark Saturday-Sunday
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Things to know before going to Hadley Park

In the heart of historic North Nashville is Hadley Park. The park, which opened in 1912, is on 28th Avenue in North Nashville, between Fisk and Tennessee State universities, two of Nashville’s historically black colleges. The park hosts numerous family-oriented activities and community events throughout the year and has a walking track, open fields, tennis courts and plenty of picnic tables. Hadley Park is next to the Hadley Park Branch of the Nashville Public Library and the Hadley Park Community Center, which has a full service fitness center with a dance/aerobics studio, offers exercise classes, and includes an indoor swimming pool with locker rooms.

  • Parking: Ample parking is available onsite.
     
  • Operational hours: 
    6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday
    6 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Friday
    8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday
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What to know before you go to Natchez Trace Parkway

Foliage drive on the Natchez Trace Parkway in Franklin TN
A peak between fall trees at the double-arched Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge in Franklin, Tennessee.
Photo Credit: Visit Franklin

 

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile route that runs from Mississippi, through northwestern Alabama and ends far west of Nashville. Take a scenic drive along the parkway to experience waterfalls, small towns, historic sites and state parks tucked away in the rural areas surrounding Music City. Start or end your adventure by savoring the delicious biscuits and Southern food served up at Loveless Cafe.

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Things to know before going to Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

Vibrant beds of red, yellow, and pink tulips bloom alongside a curving paved path in a sunny, well-maintained garden with lush green lawns and trees in the distance.
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens in Nashville, Tennessee
Photo Credit: @cheekwood

 

One of the things to do in Nashville during the day and with kids is to visit the 55 acres that encompass Cheekwood Estate & Gardens - a circa 1929 estate home originally built by Leslie and Mabel Cheek - just 8 miles from downtown Nashville. Filled with a botanic garden, sculpture trail and art museum, there's plenty to keep you occupied for a full day. Explore 12 distinct gardens along with the Cheek Mansion, now the Museum of Art, that has preserved family rooms, galleries filled with Cheekwood’s permanent collections and even traveling exhibitions. 

  • 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.
     
  • Operational hours:
    9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday
    Visit the ticketing page for current operating hours.
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Important information for Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park in Nashville TN
Rainbow over Bicentennial Mall State Park in Nashville, Tennessee.
Photo Credit: Journal Communications Inc.

 

The easy-to-access Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park in downtown Nashville, next to the Farmer’s Market, is filled with Tennessee’s history, natural wonders and is a permanent monument to Tennessee’s Bicentennial Celebration in 1996. Here, you can walk the 19-acre park and discover the 200-foot granite state map, a Pathway of History, the Rivers of Tennessee Fountains, a 95-Bell Carillon and a World War II Memorial. Native plant species are planted in 11 planters along the Walkway of Counties. Check the state park’s calendar of events to see if your visit coincides with a concert in the 2,000-seat amphitheater that offers breathtaking views of the skyline or with an event that is hosted on the expansive green space.

  • Parking: Free ample parking is available onsite. There is a paid garage located near the state park as well.
     
  • Accessibility: The state park is fully wheelchair accessible.
     
  • Operational hours: 
    Visitor Center: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily
    Nov. 1-March 30: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily
    April 1-Oct. 1: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily

Take in Nashville History

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What to know before you go to Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Inside the Country Music Hall of Fame, a circular room with "Will the Circle Be Unbroken" inscribed, high windows, and a visitor in a spotlight.
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Photo Credit: Paul Tellefesen

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum preserves and celebrates the history and traditions of country music from its roots to its form today. Browse the extensive collections full of rich exhibitions, eye-widening artifacts, interactive elements, public programs and more. Also, be sure to visit Historic RCA Studio B - Nashville's oldest recording studio, and Hatch Show Print, a working letterpress print shop since 1879.

  • Parking: Parking is available at the Walk of Fame Parking Garage (161 4th Ave S) or the Sobro Tower Garage (210 3rd Ave S) offered daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with validation from the Museum. The museum is walking distance from WeGo Public transit routes 6, 52, 55, 63 and 93.
     
  • Accessibility: Please reference the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum's Accessibility Guide that details wheelchair accessibility, sensory sensitivities, transportation and parking, service dogs and more. 
     
  • Operational hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Peak visitation hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 
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Things to know before going to Alkebu-Lan Images Bookstore & Gift Shop

Stop by the Alkebu-Lan Images Bookstore & Gift Shop for gifts, African American literature, clothing, skincare products and much more. The shop also hosts lectures by authors, professors and experts of topics like history, culture and more.

  • Parking: Limited lot parking is available onsite.
     
  • Accessibility: Contact Alekbu-Lan Images Bookstore & Gift Shop at 615-321-4111 for accessibility details.
     
  • Operational hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday
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Important information for National Museum of African American Music

Music history at National Museum of African American Music in Nashville, Tennessee.
National Museum of African American Music in Nashville, Tennessee
Photo Credit: National Museum of African American Music

 

The National Museum of African American Music is the only museum dedicated to preserving the legacy and celebrating the accomplishments of the many music genres created, influenced, or inspired by African Americans. Within the 56,000 square-foot museum you can experience the beginnings of American music with Southern religious and blues traditions to today's impactful hip-hop and rhythm & blues influences.

  • Parking: Parking is located beneath the museum for $22 at the validation kiosk in the museum lobby.
     
  • Accessibility: Fully ADA accessible with elevators and ramps where necessary.
     
  • Operational hours: 
    Noon to 5 p.m. Sunday-Monday
    10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday
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What to know before you go to Johnny Cash Museum

Johnny Cash Museum in Nashville TN
The Johnny Cash Museum in Nashville, Tennessee.
Photo Credit: Journal Communications Inc.

 

The Johnny Cash Museum is located in the heart of downtown Nashville and is dedicated to the life and music career of the "Man in Black." Exhibits house the largest, most comprehensive collection of Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia. Items include stage costumes, personal letters, artwork, handwritten lyrics and instruments as well as first-hand accounts by family members and friends.

  • Parking: Paid parking lots and garages are located near the museum. Rideshare is encouraged.
     
  • Accessibility: The museum is completely wheelchair accessible.
     
  • Operational hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily
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Things to know before going to Andrew Jackson's Hermitage

Andrew Jackson's Hermitage in Nashville set behind green, tall trees on either side. It's a bit of Nashville and national history tucked away on 1,120 acres of historic grounds and a garden.

 

Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage is the home of the 7th U.S. president - where Andrew Jackson and his family lived before, during and after his presidency. This 1,120-acre site has been open to the public since 1889, giving visitors a glimpse into what life in the 19th-century South was like. Take a tour of the famed Hermitage Mansion, stroll through a garden fit for a First Lady, learn more about the men, women and children who were enslaved on the property through one of the specialty tours and dig into the rich past of this National Historic Landmark.

  • Parking: Free parking is available onsite.
     
  • Accessibility: Motorized and non-motorized wheelchairs are permitted. Much of the grounds may present challenges due to the historic nature of the site. Many paths are paved and wheelchair ramps are available at the mansion. The second floor and the rear porch are not accessible to those in wheelchairs.  Visitor Guides on the first floor have photos available of the rooms on the second floor.
     
  • Operational hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. day before Thanksgiving
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Things to know before going to Witness Walls

Witness Walls at Nashville Historic Courthouse in Nashville TN
Take in the artwork of Walter Hood that tells civil rights history.

 

After the home of Z. Alexander Looby, a lawyer for civil rights cases, was bombed, students and others met and marched to the Davidson County Courthouse where they met with Mayor Ben West who conceded segregation was immoral and the city's lunch counter should be desegregated. Located next to the Courthouse, Witness Walls, created by artist Walter Hood, tells the stories of the events and the people who made civil rights history in Nashville. School desegregation, marches, meetings, Freedom Rides, lunch counter sit-ins and economic boycotts are represented on the concrete walls. Witness Walls was dedicated in 2017 and is a project of the Metro Nashville Arts Commission’s Percent for Public Art Program.

  • Parking: Parking is available at metered spots nearby and at the Metro Courthouse/Public Square Park Garage.
     
  • Accessibility: Witness Walls are wheelchair accessible.
     
  • Operational hours: Open 24 hours
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Important information for Fort Negley Visitors Center and Park

Stone fortress entrance with castellated walls, four towers, central archway, and American flag on pole under cloudy sky with bare trees in Fort Negley.
Soak up the city's Civil War history and iconic downtown views.
Photo Credit: @earthx2

 

The historical education center tells the story of Nashville’s relationship with the federal government during the Civil War. At Fort Negley Visitors Center and Park guests can enjoy two 20-minute videos, interactive exhibits, self-guided walking tours, and information on the building of Fort Negley. Walk the grounds and enjoy the expansive views of downtown Nashville.

  • Parking: Ample parking is available onsite.
     
  • Accessibility: Fort Negley and the visitor center are ADA accessible. For additional details, please call the Visitor Center at 615-862-8470.
     
  • Operational hours: The park is open from dawn to dusk. The visitor center is open noon to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Visit Historically Black Colleges and Universities

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What to know before you go to Fisk University

Fisk University is the oldest university in Nashville. The first African-American university to receive accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Fisk University students were instrumental in many of the sit-in demonstrations throughout Nashville. You can learn about the university’s history and some of its famous alumni including Ida B. Wells-Barnett, Thurgood Marshall (the first African-American Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court) and U.S. Representative John Lewis. You can also visit the extensive art collection in the Carl Van Vechten Gallery.

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Important information on Griggs Hall at American Baptist College

Griggs Hall  at American Baptist College in Nashville, TN
Learn the stories of the non-violent civil rights training and activity.

American Baptist College started as a seminary for black students in 1924. It became the center for non-violent training and activity in the Nashville area, especially the Nashville sit-in program during the Civil Rights Movement. Tours are available by appointment only.

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Things to know before going to Tennessee State University

The Alma Mater of Wilma Rudolph, Olympic sprint champion, Tennessee State University was founded in 1912 and has a rich Olympic history. Wilma Rudolph was one of the first nationally-famous track runners and was the first American woman to win three gold medals in one Olympics. Additionally, former track coach Ed Temple is in the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame.

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What to know before you go to Meharry Medical College

This historic institution began in 1876, admitting its first 11 students and was the first medical school in the South to have four-year training. Dr. James Monroe Jamison was the South’s first African-American physician to be formally trained in the medical field. Dr. Georgia E. L. Patton was the first female graduate to receive her degree in 1893.

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