I arrived in Nashville to lively music, friendly people, and a vibe that’s hard to beat. When I got to Broadway, I could feel the heartbeat of the city. From the start of my three-day trip, I could hear live bands, smell southern cooking, and feel people having a great time. Nashville did even better than what it said it would do.
Principal Learnings
- A long history of music
- You can feel how much Nashville cares about music. There is music everywhere, from honky-tonk bars to famous venues.
- Hospitality in the South
- The people there are warm and friendly, which makes you feel at home. Everyone you meet in the city is willing to talk to you.
- Different Attractions
- Nashville has a lot to see and do, whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or food.
Day 1: Discovering Downtown Nashville
Morning: Exploring Broadway
Start your day on Broadway, which is where all the music in Nashville happens. Along this street are honky-tonk bars that all have live music from early morning until late at night. I started my day at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, a famous bar known for having a great vibe and playing great music.
After listening to music at Tootsie’s, I walked down Broadway, stopping in a few bars and shops. Every place had its own special vibe, and the music ranged from old-time country to new pop hits. The energy was so strong that it was difficult to resist the excitement.
Midday: Ryman Auditorium and Country Music Hall of Fame
By noon, it was time to learn more about Nashville’s long musical history. I went to the Ryman Auditorium, which is known as the “Mother Church of Country Music.” The tour with a guide was very interesting. I learned about the venue’s interesting history and role in the music world.
After that, I went to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum on foot. There is a lot of country music memorabilia here. The exhibits were interesting and fun, with things like Elvis Presley’s gold Cadillac and Johnny Cash’s clothes. I learned a lot about the history of country music here for a few hours.
Afternoon: Lunch and Shopping at The Gulch
That morning, I learned about the history of music. For lunch, I went to The Gulch. People know this cool neighborhood for its stylish shops and restaurants. People love Biscuit Love for its Southern comfort food, so that’s where I chose to eat. The bonuts (biscuit doughnuts) were the best part.
After lunch, I looked around the shops in The Gulch. Stores like Two Old Hippies and Lucchese Bootmaker offered unique items like old guitars and custom cowboy boots. It was the best way to spend an afternoon, taking it easy.
Evening: Dinner and Live Music
I chose the Southern Steak and Oyster for dinner. This restaurant serves traditional Southern food with a modern twist. There was nothing bad about the shrimp and grits.
There was more live music after dinner. I went to the Bluebird Café, which is known for its small-scale performances. The music was great, and the atmosphere was cozy. It was magical to end the day by hearing singer-songwriters play their own original songs.
Day 2: Embracing Nashville’s Culture and History
Morning: Belle Meade Plantation
We went to the Belle Meade Plantation to start the second day. This historic site shows what life was like in the South before the Civil War. We saw the mansion, the dairy, and the carriage house on the tour with a guide. The stories about the plantation’s past were both interesting and sad.
The wine tasting at Belle Meade Winery was one of the best parts. The winery makes many kinds of wines, and we had a great time tasting them. The tour ended in a great way.
Midday: Lunch and Visit to The Parthenon
I picked a spot near Centennial Park for lunch. Many people in Nashville know Hattie B’s Hot Chicken for its spicy fried chicken. The food lived up to the hype; it had just the right amount of heat and flavor.
I went to see The Parthenon in Centennial Park after lunch. This huge copy of the Parthenon in Athens is really impressive. It has an art gallery and a 42-foot statue of Athena inside. The park is beautiful and a nice place to get away from the noise and chaos of the city.
Johnny Cash Museum and Patsy Cline Museum in the afternoon
I looked around the Johnny Cash Museum in the afternoon. There are many things from Cash’s life in the museum, such as his guitars, costumes, and personal letters. Anyone who loves music has to go there.
Right next door, there is a museum about Patsy Cline. It is shorter but just as interesting; it shows the life and career of one of country music’s most famous stars. The displays have clothes, records, and personal things that give an idea of her life.
Evening: Dinner and Nightlife in East Nashville
East Nashville is known for having a diverse vibe and a lively nightlife. I picked The Pharmacy, a burger place with a beer garden, for dinner. The burgers were delicious, and the beer selection was great.
I checked out the nightlife in East Nashville after dinner. Bars like The 5 Spot and The Crying Wolf offered great music and a chill vibe. It was a lively and fun way to end a day full of cultural experiences.
Day 3: Outdoor Adventures and Local Experiences
Trailing at Radnor Lake State Park in the morning
The last day started with an adventure outside. I took my car to Radnor Lake State Park, which is a peaceful spot just outside of town. The park has many hiking trails, and all of them have lovely views of the lake and the trees around it. I went on the Lake Trail, which was a simple hike with lots of chances to see wildlife.
Midday: Brunch and Farmer’s Market
I went back to the city for brunch after the hike. People from all over Nashville know and love the Pancake Pantry in Hillsboro Village for its long lines and delicious pancakes. It lived up to expectations. One of the best things was the sweet potato pancakes.
After that, I went to the Nashville Farmers’ Market. It’s fun to try out local crafts and food at the market. I looked at the booths, talked to the vendors, and enjoyed the lively atmosphere for a couple of hours.
Afternoon: Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
I went to Cheekwood Estate & Gardens in the afternoon. There are beautiful gardens, art galleries, and an old mansion on this huge estate. I took a walk through the themed gardens, which were beautiful, and looked at the art shows inside the mansion. It was a peaceful spot to spend the afternoon.
Evening: Sunset Cruise on the General Jackson Showboat
I booked a sunset cruise on the General Jackson Showboat to end my 72 hours in Nashville. As you sail down the Cumberland River on the paddlewheel riverboat, you can enjoy dinner and live music. The food was great, and the live music made the evening even better. The perfect way to end my trip to Nashville was to watch the sun go down over the river.
In conclusion
When I thought about my three days in Nashville, I saw how much this city has to offer. Nashville is an interesting and inspiring city, from its deep musical history to its lively food scene. Every day was different, and I made memories that I will treasure for a long time. I spent my time exploring iconic music venues, sampling delicious Southern cuisine, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. It reminded me of the excitement I felt when planning a 3day itinerary for Florence, another destination full of art, culture, and unique experiences. Just like Florence, Nashville left me inspired and eager to return someday to uncover even more of its charm.
If you’re thinking about going to Nashville, don’t wait. There’s something for everyone in Nashville, whether you like music, history, or just good food and friendly people. The city makes you feel welcome and makes you want to see more.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What are the most important things to see in Nashville during a three-day trip?
- The Country Music Hall of Fame, Broadway, Belle Meade Plantation, The Parthenon, the Johnny Cash Museum, and Cheekwood Estate & Gardens are all must-sees.
When is the best time of year to go to Nashville?
- Spring and fall are the best times to go because the weather is nice and there are lots of festivals and events.
Is Nashville a good place for families to visit?
- Yes, Nashville does have a lot of family-friendly things to do, like parks, museums, and hands-on exhibits.
How can I get around Nashville?
- Nashville has many ways to get around, such as public transit, rental cars, and rideshares. You can also walk a lot in downtown.
What kind of music will I hear in Nashville?
- Nashville is known for its country music, but you can also see live rock, blues, jazz, and other types of music.
Are there any free things to do in Nashville?
- Some things to do are free, like Centennial Park, the Tennessee State Museum, and some bars and venues with live music.
What should I pack for a trip to Nashville?
- For activities outside, bring comfortable clothes and shoes, a hat, and sunscreen. For evenings when it gets cooler, bring a light jacket.
Can I visit Nashville on a budget?
- Indeed, there are numerous affordable options for dining, lodging, and sightseeing. You can save money if you are smart and look for deals.
What foods should I try when I get to Nashville?
- You should try the hot chicken, barbecue, and biscuits. Nashville also has a lively food scene with a lot of different kinds of food.
Do I need to book attractions ahead of time?
- Popular things to do, like the tour of the Ryman Auditorium and the Bluebird Café, should be reserved ahead of time, especially during busy tourist times.
This trip to Nashville was one I will never forget. It was full of fun, interesting things to see, and delicious food. Plan your trip to Music City with this list of things to do to get the most out of your 72 hours there.
