20 fun and cool things to do in Nashville

Nashville is at the heart of the Southern U.S. and best–-known as the capital of country music. Learn about the genre’s history at the Country Music Hall of Fame, or catch a concert at the Grand Ole Opry. Into food? Taste the best BBQ the city has to offer. If you’re feeling romantic, you and your partner can do anything from learning line dancing together to doing a fun pub crawl by golf cart. Here are the most cool and unique things to do in Nashville.

Fun things to do in Nashville as a couple

1. Get house envy visiting the homes of the stars

Nashville is home to some of the biggest singers, especially country music ones, in the world. Here’s your chance to get a glimpse of where they live. If you’re really lucky, you might even meet one of them – something which has happened before.

Highlights:

You can pass by the homes of major stars such as Taylor Swift, Kellie Pickler, and Nashville–born A–list actress Reese Witherspoon.

2. Dance the night away on a tractor party wagon

Nashville is known for its wild party scene, and one of the most unique things to do in Nashville is to join a party wagon. Fitted with a fully stocked bar, stereo, and LED dancefloor, this tractor-driven party wagon is something you will only find here in Nashville.

Highlights:

The Nashville Party is the biggest tractor party wagon in town and features an onboard entertainer to keep the fun going all night.

3. Visit Nashville’s best bars by golf cart

Like golf? Like bars? Go through Nashville’s bar scene as you play putt-putt golf around the Downtown area. You can ride by golf cart to some of the best midtown bars around the city, and during your journey, play recreational golf with a selection of predetermined drinks based on how well you play.

Highlights

Check out Nashville City Golf, which is one of the top places to hit the greens.

4. See Nashville from high above on a helicopter

If you’ve explored Nashville from the ground, then head to the skies for a brand new perspective on the city. From the historic buildings in the Downtown area to the rolling hills that surround it, a magical helicopter flight over Nashville is an experience you’ll always remember.

Highlights:

See sights such as Nissan Stadium and the Bridgestone Arena. Helicopter cabins are climate-controlled for an enjoyable experience.

5. Enjoy a couple’s photoshoot with champagne

Why not surprise your partner with a romantic photoshoot at some of the city’s most photogenic locations? Capture special memories together while exploring the town with your own professional photographer, then celebrate at the end with champagne and a rooftop view of the city.

Highlights:

Your guide and photographer will take you to some of the coolest and most picture–perfect spots in Nashville on a photoshoot, such as the What Lifts You Wings Mural.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at The Gulch, Nashville, TN, 37203. Tour times vary.

Fun things to do in Nashville with kids

6. Learn line dancing at a group dance class

No visit to Nashville is complete without learning to dance as the locals do. Line dancing is a huge part of the local culture, and this class will show you all the moves to dance like a pro; it’s a fun activity for the whole family.

Highlights:

Line dancing classes last an hour and are designed to be easy and enjoyable, allowing you all to learn at your own pace and build your confidence.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 306 TN-24, Nashville, TN, 37201. Tour times vary.

7. Take a tour of the city by golf cart

What could be more fun than exploring the best attractions in Nashville in a speedy little golf cart? From the famous Ryman Auditorium, home of the Grand Ole Opry, to the sights and scents of Nashville’s best restaurants, this tour will give you the low down on some of the city’s most popular sights.

Highlights:

The golf cart tour will show you over 35 attractions including Midtown, Music Row and the Gulch.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 833 9th Ave. S, Nashville, TN, 37203. Tour times vary.

8. Test your skills in an escape room

Enjoy a fun experience with the whole family that will test your problem–solving abilities to the limit. The Escape Game Nashville in Berry Hill features eight immersive challenges to solve, from expensive art heists to finding forbidden treasure, that will delight and thrill your crew.

Highlights:

Each Escape Game adventure is elaborately-decorated to create the most engaging experiences and immersive settings, from ancient ruins to damaged spaceships.

Address and opening hours:

510 E Iris Dr., Nashville, TN, 37204. Open 8:00 AM-12:00 AM daily.

9. See wildlife up close at Nashville Zoo

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is home to over 300 animal species, including fish, birds, and reptiles. From local wildlife exhibits to exotic species from across the world, there is so much to see, and all enclosures are designed to mimic each species’ native environment.

Highlights:

You can get up close to the animals at Critter Encounters, Kangaroo Kickabout, and Lorikeet Landing.

Address and opening hours:

3777 Nolensville Pk., Nashville, TN, 37211. Open 9:00 AM-6:00 PM daily.

10. Kayak through the city on the Cumberland River

Take to the water – some of the best views of the Nashville skyline can be seen from the mighty Cumberland River that flows through the city. Hire your own kayak and take a self-guided tour of the river; before you set off, you’ll be outfitted with a life jacket and shown how to paddle safely. Some seat two, so parents and kids can share one if needs be.

Highlights:

Enjoy 90 minutes on the water, seeing sights such as Nissan Stadium.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at E Bank Greenway, Nashville, TN, 37213. Tour times vary.

Fun things to do in Nashville on your own

11. Uncover Civil War history in Franklin

History buffs will want to explore Franklin, the site of one of the most significant battlefields in the American Civil War. Only a short distance south of central Nashville, you can take a tour of the battlegrounds and learn about the histories and stories that emerged from one of the most intense periods in U.S. history.

Highlights:

During a Civil War History Tour, you’ll visit significant historical sites such as the Carter House, Lotz House, and the Carnton Plantation.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 108 1st Ave. S, Nashville, TN. 37201. Tour times vary.

12. Make new friends on a pontoon party cruise

This is not for shy, retiring wallflowers; while Downtown Nashville has plenty of amazing entertainment venues to party at, only one can be found on the Cumberland River. Cruise the river on a 50-foot pontoon with a fully licensed captain and party host, and see amazing views of Nashville while enjoying the party atmosphere.

Highlights:

The pontoon party cruise lasts two hours and comes with a selection of hit tunes, bar area and fun entertainment options.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 2 Victory Ave., Nashville, TN, 37213. Tour times vary.

13. Learn why they call this Music City at the Country Music Hall of Fame

Nashville is famous worldwide as the center of the country music scene. Take a tour of the Country Music Hall of Fame to explore the history of country music and its stars, plus see various exhibits such as Johnny Cash’s guitar and Elvis Presley’s limo.

Highlights:

The museum offers an optional audio guide and access to the Hatch Show Print and Studio B.

Address and opening hours:

222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN, 37203. Open 9:00 AM-5:00 PM daily.

14. Glide through Downtown Nashville on a segway tour

Not only are segways a fun and exciting way to get around, but they’re also a unique way to see the most popular sites in Downtown Nashville. Explore over five miles of famous Nashville attractions, including some you won’t see on a bus tour.

Highlights:

A Downtown segway tour lasts 2.5 hours and includes sights such as the Schermerhorn Symphony Center, Bicentennial Mall, and Tennessee State Capitol.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at Meet at 217 6th Ave. N, Nashville, TN, 37219. Tour times vary.

15. Catch the legendary Grand Ole Opry in concert

Since 1925, the Grand Ole Opry has showcased the talents of country music legends and entertainers, both past and present. Every night’s entertainment is different, making it one of the most innovative and fun things to do in Nashville.

Highlights:

Depending on what ticket you buy, you can upgrade to either a Tier 1 or Tier 2 seat for access to the exclusive Circle Room Lounge.

Address and opening hours:

600 Opry Mills Dr., Nashville, TN, 37214. Opening hours vary.

Fun things to do in Nashville if you like food and drink

16. Be surprised on a secret food tour

Nashville is famous for being the home of classic Southern cuisine, from hot and spicy fried chicken to smoky BBQ pulled pork. Get an insight into the wide selection of foods on offer throughout the city on a secret food tour, guaranteed to excite your taste buds.

Highlights:

You won’t know where you’re going beforehand, but a local guide will take you to Nashville’s favorite food stops where you can savor both local delicacies and international-inspired cuisine.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 974 Main St., Nashville, TN, 37206. Tour times vary.

17. Sample the finest whiskey on a distillery tour

Jack Daniel’s whiskey is famous throughout the world, and you can find where it is all made in Lynchburg, southeast of central Nashville. Take a tour of the local distillery, learn about the history of Jack Daniel and Lynchburg, and sample some of the premium whiskey made here.

Highlights:

Your guide will transport you to Lynchville where you will have time to tour the distillery plus explore the town.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 250 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN, 37203. Tour times vary.

18. Indulge your sweet tooth on a donut tour

Like many foods in Nashville, the donuts here have been given their own unique Southern twist. Enjoy a full-on sugar rush tasting some of the best donuts the city has to offer on a delicious donut tour. From glazed donuts to cream-filled delights, this is the perfect tour for all donut fans.

Highlights:

You’ll explore four popular donut shops, including parlor Doughnuts, Rise Donuts & Biscuits, and Donut Distillery.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 506 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN, 37203. Tour times vary.

19. Taste Southern tradition on the BBQ, Beer, and Bourbon Experience

Nothing says Southern cuisine like smoky BBQ cuisine with beer and bourbon straight from the tap. Go on a culinary journey sampling fresh beer and bourbon at a local craft brewery and distillery, plus a delicious selection of house-smoked meats at one of Nashville’s favorite eateries.

Highlights:

You’ll learn about Nashville’s food scene and the stories behind it while enjoying the finest local drinks and food.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 250 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN, 37203. Tour times vary.

20. Get hands-on at the Goo Goo Cluster chocolate workshop

The Goo Goo Cluster has been Nashville’s official candy bar for over a century, and you can find out where it is made at the Goo Goo Cluster store. Here you can not only sample the confectionery but also make your own in a hands-on candy bar-making class.

Highlights:

Make your own version of Nashville’s famous candy bar during a hands–on workshop using a variety of toppings, including nuts, marshmallows, and caramel.

Address and opening hours:

116 3rd Ave S, Nashville, TN, 37201. Open 10:00 AM-6:00 PM daily.

FAQs

What are some fun things to do in Nashville at night?

One of the best places to visit in Nashville at night is Broadway. Here you can find live music, Southern-style eateries, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

Are there any fun day trips from Nashville that I should consider?

There are several historic sights like Franklin and Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage, just a short distance from the city. Other options include Graceland, Cave City, and Lynchburg.

What are some popular festivals or events in Nashville?

Some of the most popular music festivals around Nashville are the CMA Fest and the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival in June. Another popular event is the Annual Antiques & Garden Show in February.

What are some family-friendly fun activities to do in Nashville?

A trip to the Nashville Zoo or the Adventure Science Center will be sure to impress the kids. Otherwise, there is the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and the Tennessee State Museum to explore.

What are some fun outdoor activities to do in Nashville?

Nashville has excellent walking trails and outdoor facilities in its local parks. Some of the best can be found in Centennial Park, Radnor Lake State Park, and the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park.