A local insider's 10 best hidden gems in Nashville

Nashville is best known for country music and Southern cuisine, but if you head a little off the beaten path, you’ll find fun things to do and secret spots that are often overlooked by tourists. From off-the-beaten-path parks to underrated attractions, get a fresh perspective whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler. Find out where Jack Daniel makes his whisky, catch an up–and–coming act at the Bluebird Cafe, or learn more about the Civil Rights Movement on a walking tour.

Uncover the city’s best-kept secrets and enrich your itinerary with the hidden places Nashville offers.

Nashville’s must-see hidden gems at a glance

Off-the-beaten-track places for history lovers: The Tennessee State Museum

Hidden gems for kids and families: Adventure Science Center

Secret spots for romantic moments: Love Circle

Lesser-known places with great views: Radnor Lake State Park

1. Take a walk through Centennial Park

This park is one of Nashville’s hidden gems, offering a serene escape from the bustling city life. Known for its iconic Parthenon replica, Centennial Park is a must-see for its lush gardens, tranquil lake, and historical monuments. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply enjoying the natural beauty.

Insider tip

Explore the historical monuments that date back to the park’s construction in 1897 and lakes, gardens, and art galleries. Don’t miss the free guided tours of the Parthenon, available on select days.

Address

2500 West End Ave., Nashville, TN, 37203

Opening hours

Monday-Sunday 6:00 AM-8:00 PM

2. Party hard on a tractor-driven wagon

Not exactly “hidden,” but certainly a moving target, the Nashville Tractor is the biggest party wagon in Nashville, driven by a bright red Case IH. Climb aboard and prepare to dance the night away with 25,000 watts of stereo and a light-up dancefloor.

Insider tip

The Tractor is unique in the city because the drinks on offer include moonshine. Lean into your cowboy roots with this saddle-seated, mobile party location. Enjoy the tractor-driven wagon party during your night out in Nashville.

3. Catch an up-and-coming act at the Bluebird Cafe

First opened in 1982, the Bluebird Café is a small, intimate club that has become a popular location to catch emerging new musicians as well as more established artists. Grab a bite to eat, sit back, and enjoy the music. You might just find your new favorite singer here.

Insider tip

As the Bluebird Cafe is a small music venue, seating can be limited. Check before visiting to see if a reservation is required.

Address

4104 Hillsboro Pike, Nashville, TN, 37215.

Opening hours

Monday-Sunday 5:00 AM-11:00 PM

4. Explore the art world at the Frist Art Museum

Located in a beautiful Art Deco building, the Frist Art Museum is one of the best places to appreciate art in Nashville. The museum has no permanent collection of its own. Instead, it rotates through different exhibitions regularly, which means there is always something new to see. It’s also one of the best things to do with kids in Nashville because of its interactive exhibits and art-making stations.

Insider tip

Entry to the Frist Art Museum is free for all visitors. However, some exhibitions may require a fee to enter.

Address

111 Broadway Suite 200, Nashville, TN, 37201.

Opening hours

Tuesday-Sunday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM

Closed on Mondays

5. Learn about the Civil Rights Movement on a walking tour

During the 1950s and 60s, there were many marches and protests in Nashville regarding laws dealing with race and equality. Take a historic Civil Rights tour of Nashville to learn about the events that helped shape this moment in history.

Insider tip

The tour gets off the beaten path, visiting places important to the cause and teaching you about Nashville’s role in the movement for equal rights.

6. Take a day trip to Andrew Jackson's Hermitage

Located 20 minutes northeast of central Nashville by car, Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage is one of the great hidden places you can find just out of town. Originally the home of former US President Andrew Jackson, the hermitage has been restored to how it looked during his lifetime in 1837. Today, it serves as a museum of what life was like in those days.

Insider tip

Explore the hermitage, nearby hiking trails, and historical landmarks with an Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage grounds pass.

Address

4580 Rachels Ln., Hermitage, TN, 37076

Opening times

Monday-Sunday 9:00 AM-6:00 PM

7. Learn about the bloody history of the Battle of Franklin

One of the most significant battles in the history of the Civil War was fought at Franklin, south of central Nashville. Located just a short drive from Nashville, this site provides a poignant look at the events that unfolded in 1864, offering a deep dive into one of the Civil War’s most brutal battles. Explore restored Civil War homes, see the evidence left behind by bullets and cannonballs, and hear the stories about the people who lived and died there.

Insider tip

Take a history tour to visit historic attractions like the Carter House. Plan your visit during the anniversary of the battle in late November, when special tours and reenactments are often held.

8. Find out where Jack Daniel makes his whiskey

If you are a whiskey connoisseur, then a trip to Lynchburg is for you. Here, you will uncover the secret places where Jack Daniel’s famous whiskey is made, learn about its history, and sample some of its stock. This iconic distillery offers a fascinating tour that delves into the history and process behind one of the world’s most famous whiskeys.

Insider tip

A day trip from Nashville takes you to the distillery where Jack Daniel’s premium whiskey is made. While here, make sure to take a leisurely stroll around the rest of the town.

Address

250 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN, 37203

Opening hours

Monday–Saturday 9:00 AM–4:30 PM

Sunday 11:00 AM–4:30 PM

9. Discover musicians past and present at the Musicians Hall of Fame

While not as well-known as the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Musicians Hall of Fame is just as fascinating. Dedicated to artists in multiple genres, including country, rock, pop, jazz, and hip-hop, this museum offers a unique journey into the history of popular music and musicians.

Insider tip

Take some time to explore the collections of musical memorabilia on display, such as Jimi Hendrix’s guitars and Elvis Presley’s studio.

Address

401 Gay St., Nashville, TN, 37219

Opening hours

Monday-Saturday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM

10. Indulge your taste buds on a secret food tour

Nashville is known for its delicious Southern cuisine, and there is such an overwhelming selection of eateries that it can be hard to choose. With a secret food tour, you can sample delicious Nashville dishes from some of the city’s well-known eateries, plus some places off the beaten path that only locals know about.

Insider tip

The secret food tour offers a culinary journey through Nashville’s amazing food scene. Just be sure not to spoil the surprise for others when it’s over.

FAQs

What are some lesser-known attractions in Nashville that are worth visiting?

For music lovers, the Musicians Hall of Fame and the Bluebird Café are must-sees. A walk around Centennial Park will also reveal a few hidden places that are worth visiting.

Are there any hidden or secret gardens in Nashville that I can explore?

Centennial Park and the Bicentennial Capitol Mall both feature secret gardens on their grounds. There are also the gorgeous botanical gardens at Cheekwood Estate, just outside of Nashville.

Can you recommend any hidden or secret viewpoints in Nashville with great views of the city?

Love Circle in Nashville is one of the highest points in the city and has sweeping views of the surrounding area. The Belmont University bell tower, the Frist Art Museum rooftop, and the John Seigenthaler Bridge are also great scenic vantage points.

What are some lesser-known neighborhoods in Nashville that are worth exploring?

Germantown is a less visited neighborhood with a great food scene. There is also Wedgewood-Houston, 12 South, and East Nashville, which all have their own brand of artistic and trendy flavors.

Can you recommend any hidden architectural gems in Nashville that are not as crowded as the famous landmarks?

The Frist Museum and Belle Meade Plantation tend to be less crowded than other landmarks. There is also Centennial Park, with its wide open spaces to explore.