20 Things To Do In Downtown Nashville

1. Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

By far, the museum is a crucial things to do downtown Nashville for every enthusiast of country music. This museum is in Nashville, Tennessee, and it explores the history of country music and its impact and has different exhibits.

Besides, the tourists can walk through marvelous exhibitions of costumes, instruments, and other relics from the legends of country music. Attached to the museum there are also dedicated interactive installations that let the viewer ‘hear” the music himself.

The closure of this place with its amazing openings and interesting storytelling that combines a rich display of historical items makes the exhibition entertaining.

2. See A Show At The Ryman Auditorium

The Ryman Auditorium is a musical hall situated in downtown Nashville and was initially established as a church in 1892. However, it gained popularity as the home of the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974.

Also known as the mother church of country music, it has a stunning structure and excellent sound quality that can be felt in concert halls, making Ryman a darling to many artists and music lovers.

Even to this day, it is used for concerts and features performances in almost every type of music. People can also walk through the facility with a guide just to hear about the history or take a tour.

3. Stroll Down Broadway

Broadway is one of the most popular avenues in New York and is characterized by its fast pace and musical tradition. This is a famous street that has been considered the central post of Nashville, where there are great bars, lots of live music, and great neon signs.

There are numerous sites to see, including the Ryman Auditorium and the John Cash Museum, great sites that provide a historical background to Nashville’s rich country music history. Restaurants are also prevalent on Broadway and range from home-style cooked foods to buffs and steaks.

Overall, this is one of the iconic things to do in Downtown Nashville Tennessee.

4. Tour The Johnny Cash Museum

The museum is situated in the business and commercial area of Nashville at 119 3rd Avenue South. This museum is quite renowned for honoring the life and works of Johnny Cash, a star who defined country music.

A huge number of souvenirs can be seen by the visitors, among which there are clothing, musical instruments, and even artifacts that once belonged to Cash. His greatest achievements are illustrated, starting from the period of his first successes to the final stage of a great career, as well as his contribution to music and culture.

Additional information on elements like the documentary and non-interactive mini-movies gives an even better idea of the life and work of the man.

5. Explore The Nashville Symphony at Schermerhorn Symphony Center

This structure is one of the most famous and recognized throughout the music world due to the elegant design and impressive sound of the hall. There are a range of shows that a spectator can attend, including classical orchestral concerts, pop concerts, and other themed concerts with internationally renowned artists.

The center also provides education, specially organized performances, and concerts for the promotion of music knowledge and entertainment in society across all ages. The Center is a real treasure that any follower of music and other kinds of art can find in Nashville, making it one of the top things to do in Nashville TN Downtown.

6. Visit the Nashville Public Library (NPL)

The NPL is rather an essential component of Nashville, Tennessee’s community, as they provide numerous resources and essential services to the patrons. The library system is centralized in the downtown area of Nashville and caters to the whole Davidson County metropolitan area.

The NPL was founded in 1898 and consists of several branches; the Main Library, however, stands as a hub for practically all things cultural. Nashville’s Main Library has a dedicated Nashville Room that also contains numerous books, pictures, and other items telling a story of the city.

Pupils and guests will be able to attend various programs involving, for instance, educational workshops and reading promotion programs.

7. Spend A Night At Double Tree By Hilton Hotel

Located at 315 4th Avenue North, this place is a hospitality icon for its warm and firm reception. Its location makes the hotel easily accessible. Situated in very close proximity to major tourist attractions, the hotel offers nicely designed and fully equipped bedrooms, offering the guests comforts like flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, and mini-fridges. 

This hotel has a restaurant called Fourth & U, which offers American food and there is also a bar with beverages and small plates. It is also essential to note that visitors can also see differently the fitness center and the indoor pool.

8. Dine At Southern Steak & Oyster

Among the many things to do in Downtown Nashville TN, exploring this restaurant situated at 150 3rd Avenue South is for food lovers. The food is exquisite, with a spicy combination of Southern food and seafood. One can try different meals, starting with steaks, and finishing with delicious oysters, all the products being fresh.

It is well-lit and inviting, with great and friendly staff members that attend to the customers. In addition to the delicious dishes on the menu, there is also a view of the chefs at work in the center of the restaurant and the oyster bar.

9. Learn From The Tennessee State Museum

If you are confused about what to see in Nashville Downtown, this play provides a historical perspective of the state. This museum has gained a reputation for presenting the history and heritage of Tennessee in many aspects. One can find various exhibits that focus on critical periods and events in the history of the state, starting with the prehistoric era to the modern day.

The museum includes collections, art pieces, and display technologies that are informative about Tennessee’s individuals, geographical areas, and events. Some of the significant features include the Civil War in the state of Tennessee, the multicultural history, and the achievements of famous personalities from the state.

10. Wander Through The Historic 2nd Avenue District

The Historic 2nd Avenue District is an active commercial and entertainment zone in downtown Nashville that lies on 2nd Avenue North between Broadway and Church Street. This district is a popular place because of its historical background, which is closely associated with a spirited life.

It contains several historical structures for commercial use that include fine dining restaurants, pubs, boutiques, and other allied establishments that are popular among the residents as well as tourists.

It is recognized mainly as a part of the history of music development in Nashville as well as for the opportunities to spend time at night.

11. Attend Live Music Performances At Listening Room Cafe

This is one of the well-known music venues situated at 618 Fourth Avenue South in Nashville, Tennessee. This venue is rather popular for its proximity to the stage, which offers people attending concerts an excellent chance to see the artists live and in person.

This venue is popular for singers and songwriters, with an open mic where new talents are shown and veterans come to perform. Among the musical productions, they can view country music, folk music, and all styles between these two.

Visiting this place answers your question about what to do Downtown Nashville.

12. Experience The Frist Art Museum

The Frist Art Museum occupies a strategic location along Broadway in downtown Nashville, Tennessee. This museum has temporary art collections that change every few months, varying from classical art to modern art styles and everything in between, unlike most other museums where the same historic collections are showcased. 

Some of the works that the visitors come across include paintings, sculptures, photography, and even multi-media displays. It also provides children with opportunities to create their works of art in the Martin ArtQuest Gallery, which is a special creative center.

13. Take A Walk Along The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

This bridge, which links downtown Nashville to the East Bank, is situated next to Broadway and crosses the Cumberland River. This bridge is one of the Nashville Downtown attractions famous for the great view on the skyline of the city.

People come here for photo shoots in the background since there are amazing views for colorful photos in the evening. A leisurely walk in the evenings is one of the favorite things in downtown Nashville among visitors, as is watching the sunset behind the river from the bridge.

14. Discover Goo Goo Chocolate Co

The physical location of Goo Goo Chocolate Co. is 116 3rd Avenue South, Downtown. It is a cute store that has candy, particularly chocolate, caramel, and peanut Goo Goo Clusters. Visitors are free to get acquainted with some of the kinds of chocolate and sweet products.

The store also has what one can call a studio; customers can watch as workers make the most of the clusters and other chocolates that are sold at the store. You can also discover more details about the Goo Goo Clusters, for instance, the history of the groups.

Besides, you can also make your very own chocolates here by having chocolates molded into a specific bar of your choice.

15. BBQ At Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint

Martin’s Restaurant is well known for its “whole hog” barbecue, which creates rather a special image of Southern cuisine with lots of tender meat and rather strong-flavored side dishes.

Their niche dish is pulled pork, which is enjoyed after being slow-cooked and flavored according to the Southern style of barbecuing. People can try meat, such as ribs and briskets, or some sides, such as baked beans and coleslaw, for instance.

The style of the restaurant is relaxed and informal, so it is perfect for families and gatherings, friends, and all the ones who love tasty and tender barbecues.

16. Learn About The Vibrant History of Printers Alley

Printers Alley is a performing and historic social spot in Nashville, located in the downtown area in a region between 3rd and 4th Avenues, from Union and Church Streets.

This is an acknowledged street famous for occasions, parties, and an excellent historical background. Printers Alley existed in the early part of the twentieth century and was an office for many print companies, hence the name.

Today, people associate it with hangouts, which include bars, clubs, and live music venues that are still characteristic of Nashville’s music scene. One can walk through the historic locales of the nation, see famous and original honky-tonks, and watch concerts in traditional establishments.

17. Hike The Rolling Mill Hill Greenway

Rolling Mill Hill Greenway is an excellent paved trail that runs in Nashville’s city center, south of downtown. Located close to Rolling Mill Hill, this green way can prove to be a perfect getaway from any city’s bustle.

This is especially famous for its beautiful overlook of the downtown skyline and the Cumberland River. People walking on this trail will have a wonderful experience on a trail that is well maintained, offers beautiful scenery of vegetation cover, and offers numerous activities for visitors.

Most people go there because it is easy to access, and the environment is friendly for family engagement and perfect for walking, jogging, and other leisure-related activities.

18. Stroll Around Alvin York Statue

The Alvin York statue is situated in the middle of downtown Nashville, just in the territory of the Tennessee State Capitol. This is a statue of Sergeant Alvin York, who served as a First Division WWI soldier and is popular for his courageous action.

People know this site for recognizing York’s huge achievement, and it is the epitome of the American spirit. Thus, walking around the statue, people can check out the Capitol area, which is rich in history and architectural features.

The environmental surroundings are green, and the layout of the complex as well as its location inspires tranquility.

19. Get A Quick Calisthenics Workout At Nashville Street Workout Park

The Nashville Street Workout Park is a special park for exercising that is located at 1912 Broadway, Nashville, TN. This park is particularly recognized for its well-thought-out design dedicated to calisthenics and bodyweight movements.

It has a set of exercise stations with bars and rings together with other pieces of equipment suitable for pull-ups, push-ups, and more. Another social venue that can be attributed to the park is that it is ideal for people who prefer exercising in groups, especially those who prefer fitness in parks.

It has a variety of exercise equipment that visitors can use commonly, in groups, or to exercise while having a view of Nashville.

20. Shop At Nashville Farmers' Market

The Market is another famous and busy thoroughfare with the address of 900 Rosa L. Parks Boulevard, Nashville. This is a perfect venue for truly tasting Nashville’s bounty and the fresh produce, foods, and specialty items being produced by dedicated local artisans.

If you are exploring what to do in downtown Nashville, visiting this place will provide a wide variety of stalls that sell everything from fresh local produce, fruits, and vegetables to baked food, meats, and cheeses. A food court in the market offers a great variety of international foods where people can taste Mexican, BBQ, or freshly baked entrees.