Beginner’s Guide to Nashville: Must-Visit Places for First-Time Tourists
Known as Music City, Nashville, Tennessee is a vibrant destination brimming with culture, live music, Southern hospitality, and mouthwatering cuisine. Whether you’re a country music fan, a foodie, a history buff, or just looking to soak in the lively atmosphere, Nashville is a city that delivers a memorable experience. If you’re visiting for the first time, this beginner’s guide will walk you through some of the top must-see attractions that capture the heart and soul of Nashville.
1. Broadway Street (Honky Tonk Highway)
Start your Nashville adventure on Lower Broadway, the city’s most iconic stretch filled with neon lights, live music, and bustling bars. Also known as Honky Tonk Highway, this area is a hub of activity day and night. You’ll find legendary bars like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, Robert’s Western World, and The Stage, where up-and-coming musicians perform for tips — and often, they’re just as good as the big stars.
For first-timers, grabbing a drink, dancing to live music, and watching the vibrant crowd pass by is a rite of passage. Don’t worry if you’re not a country music diehard — many venues play rock, blues, and pop as well.
2. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
You can’t come to Nashville without paying tribute to the roots of country music. The Country Music Hall of Fame is both a museum and an interactive experience that dives deep into the stories of iconic artists such as Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks, and many more.
With rotating exhibits, video archives, rare instruments, and stage costumes, it’s a fascinating stop even if you’re not a hardcore fan. The architecture alone is stunning, and there’s a great gift shop and café to unwind in afterward.
3. Ryman Auditorium
Known as the Mother Church of Country Music, the Ryman Auditorium is a must-visit for music lovers. Originally built as a church in the late 1800s, it later became the home of the Grand Ole Opry and hosted countless legends, from Elvis Presley to Patsy Cline.
Take a daytime tour to walk the historic stage or book an evening show to experience the magic firsthand. The Ryman has incredible acoustics and an intimate atmosphere that makes every concert feel special.
4. The Grand Ole Opry
Speaking of the Grand Ole Opry — it’s more than just a radio show. It’s an institution. Now located just outside of downtown Nashville, the Grand Ole Opry House offers live performances several nights a week, featuring a mix of established stars and new talent.
If you can, grab tickets to a show — there’s nothing like hearing country music performed in the venue that helped define the genre. Backstage tours are also available and provide an amazing behind-the-scenes look at how the Opry runs.
5. The Parthenon at Centennial Park
Yes, you read that right — Nashville has its very own full-scale replica of the Parthenon in Athens, Greece. Located in Centennial Park, this surprising attraction is a nod to the city’s nickname as the “Athens of the South”, due to its early commitment to higher education and the arts.
Inside the Parthenon is a beautiful art museum and a towering statue of Athena, making it a great spot for both art lovers and Instagrammers. The surrounding park is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic.
6. Johnny Cash Museum
Dedicated entirely to the life and career of The Man in Black, the Johnny Cash Museum is a compact but rich destination filled with memorabilia, music history, and personal stories. Fans will find handwritten letters, costumes, instruments, and rare footage of Cash through the decades.
Located just a block off Broadway, it’s a quick but deeply worthwhile stop for anyone curious about one of music’s most iconic voices.
7. Gulch Neighborhood
For those who like trendy neighborhoods with good food, shopping, and modern vibes, The Gulch is a must. Once an industrial area, it’s now home to luxury apartments, stylish boutiques, and top-rated restaurants.
Be sure to stop by Biscuit Love for brunch (try the “Bonuts” – biscuit-donut hybrids) and snap a photo at the Wings mural by artist Kelsey Montague, one of the city’s most famous Instagram spots.
8. 12 South Neighborhood
Another fantastic neighborhood to explore is 12 South. It offers a mix of local shops, hip cafés, and laid-back charm. Grab a coffee at Frothy Monkey, browse the quirky gift shops, and grab a treat from Five Daughters Bakery — home of the famous 100-layer donut.
The area is walkable, picturesque, and offers a more relaxed feel compared to the busy downtown core. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon soaking in the Nashville vibe.
9. Music Row
For those curious about how the music industry ticks, Music Row is where it all happens. This area is home to recording studios, music publishing houses, and record label headquarters.
While many buildings aren’t open to the public, just walking around gives you a sense of the city’s deep musical roots. You can also book a tour through companies like Studio B Tours to step inside the famous RCA Studio B, where legends like Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton recorded hits.
10. The Nashville Farmers’ Market
If you want a taste of local life and local flavors, head to the Nashville Farmers’ Market near the state capitol. Open year-round, it features fresh produce, artisan goods, local crafts, and an indoor food hall offering a wide variety of cuisines.
It’s a fantastic spot to grab lunch, support local vendors, and discover another side of the city beyond its musical fame.
Bonus Picks for Food Lovers:
No Nashville guide is complete without touching on food. Here are a few culinary must-tries:
– Hot Chicken: Try Hattie B’s or Prince’s Hot Chicken for the city’s signature spicy fried chicken.
– Meat & Three: A Southern staple — try Arnold’s Country Kitchen for this traditional combo meal.
– BBQ: Head to Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint or Peg Leg Porker for slow-cooked perfection.
Tips for First-Time Visitors:
– Transportation: While Nashville has a walkable downtown, rideshares or scooters are helpful for getting between neighborhoods.
– Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer the best weather. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is mild but quieter.
– Dress code: Casual is the norm, but cowboy boots and hats are always welcome!
Final Thoughts
Nashville offers the perfect mix of history, heart, and honky tonk. Whether you’re here for the music, the food, or the Southern hospitality, your first trip to Nashville is sure to leave you wanting more. So pack your boots, charge your phone for pictures, and get ready to experience one of America’s most spirited cities.
