Nashville

Don your cowboy boots and hat, pack the car, and in six short hours you can be in the middle of the home of honky-tonks and country music. Music City lives up to its name and awaits you with iconic activities: Catch a show at the Grand Ole Opry, stroll down Broadway hopping in and out of music venues, or experience the start of the next super-star’s trajectory by spending some time at the Bluebird Café – a venue for new and established musicians. Taylor Swift was discovered there as a teenager, after all.

There is more to Nashville than the music, though. Here are six other things to do when you need a break from the city that’s alive with rhythm 24/7. 

• Visit the Hatch Show Print. A working letterpress print shop since 1879, the shop offers tours of its current operations, hands-on experiences where guests can make their own limited edition print, and shop an extensive collection of prints in the gift shop to take home.
• Visit the Goo Goo Cluster Store. It’s more than just a candy store! Sign up for a class to learn how to make your very own classic Cluster bar. The store now also boasts kiosks where you can design your very own version of a Goo Goo Cluster, and then have it made for you in store.
• Step back into time. On the grounds of Belmont University is Belmont Mansion. Built between 1849 and 1859, it has been meticulously restored and is an astounding example of antebellum design. It houses not only the stories of all who lived in the mansion, but is full of artwork as well.
• Take to the river! The Cumberland River runs through downtown and there are all sorts of opportunities to enjoy a relaxing float. Rent pontoon boats, kayaks or stand-up paddle-boards. The General Jackson paddlewheel boat offers cruises with lunch and dinner included, and shows onboard as well.
• Visit the Frist Art Museum. Located in the city’s historic U.S. Post Office building, the museum offers ever-changing exhibits. Unlike many museums, it does not hold a permanent collection but offers fresh exhibits covering all manner of visual art. The vision of the Frist Art Museum is to inspire people through art to look at their world in new ways. 
• Dine well. Nashville has risen in recent years as a must-stop for all serious foodies. If you are willing to venture out of the tourist-heavy downtown area, head to Germantown or East Nashville neighborhoods for dining that transcends hot chicken, barbecue, biscuits and the southern meat and three plates so prevalent elsewhere in town.

No matter what your interests are, Nashville is guaranteed to please. 

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