23 Offbeat Things To Do In Nashville You Won’t Believe Exist

Nashville doesn’t just play music, it breathes it. Step onto almost any street downtown, and you’ll hear guitars, fiddles, and voices weaving through the air like part of the city itself. But if you think Nashville is only about country music, you’re only hearing the first verse of the song.

Beyond the honky-tonks of Broadway, there’s a city full of surprises: street art splashed across historic neighborhoods, inventive Southern cuisine that hits you right in the soul, and green spaces where locals go to slow life down a little.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the best offbeat things to do in Nashville. Classic spots, hidden gems, and everything in between. Get ready to tap your foot, open your heart, and fall in love with Music City.

1. Johnny Cash Museum

If you even kind of like Johnny Cash, this museum will make you a full-blown fan. Located just off Broadway, the Johnny Cash Museum pulls you deep into the life and music of the "Man in Black" with exhibits that feel personal rather than polished.

Original guitars, handwritten lyrics, family photos, stage costumes—you get a raw, unfiltered look at Cash's highs, lows, and relentless creative drive. There are also video and audio stations where you can hear rare recordings or watch legendary performances.

2. The Gulch

The Gulch is Nashville’s cool kid—stylish without trying too hard. Once a cluster of old train yards and warehouses, it’s now one of the city’s most walkable neighborhoods, packed with chic boutiques, colorful murals, rooftop bars, and brunch spots worth lining up for.

It’s where you’ll find the famous "Wings" mural (perfect for your Instagram moment), plus some of the city’s hottest restaurants and cocktail lounges. The shopping scene mixes indie finds with designer labels, and the vibe shifts effortlessly from laid-back coffee sipping to late-night dancing.

3. Historic RCA Studio B

Walking into RCA Studio B feels like stepping inside a living time capsule. This unassuming little building is where legends like Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, and Roy Orbison laid down tracks that would change music forever.

Tours, which start at the Country Music Hall of Fame, guide you through the studio’s humble halls, sharing stories about late-night sessions, last-minute hits, and the quirky tricks engineers used to capture just the right sound. (Spoiler: Christmas lights year-round to keep Elvis in a recording mood.)

Standing in the same space where "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" and "Jolene" were born is a spine-tingling experience, even if you’re not a die-hard music buff. It's small, intimate, and pure magic—one of those places where the history feels almost alive in the air.

4. Centennial Park

Need a break from the city buzz? Centennial Park is Nashville’s go-to green space, perfect for a lazy afternoon or a casual stroll. At its center stands the full-size Parthenon replica—yes, a massive Greek temple right in the middle of Tennessee. (It’s a sight you’ll never forget.)

Beyond the Parthenon, the park offers shady walking trails, a peaceful duck pond, a sunken garden, and plenty of wide-open lawns perfect for tossing a frisbee or just lying back with a good book.

You’ll often stumble across pop-up concerts, outdoor yoga classes, or art festivals happening here. It's a local favorite for good reason: it’s easygoing, beautiful, and gives you a different flavor of Nashville that's more about nature and community than neon and noise.

5. Prince’s Hot Chicken

If you’re in Nashville, eating Prince’s Hot Chicken isn’t optional—it’s a rite of passage. This fiery fried chicken legend started almost a century ago and is still serving up burn-your-lips-off goodness that locals swear by.

The story goes that Thornton Prince’s girlfriend wanted to punish him with an extra-spicy fried chicken breakfast. Instead, he loved it—and turned it into a restaurant empire. Today, you can choose your heat level, but even "medium" comes with a serious kick. ("Hot" and "XXHot" are not for the faint of heart.)

6. The Listening Room Café

The Listening Room Café flips the script on Nashville’s music scene. Instead of loud bar bands or cover acts, this spot lets songwriters—the people behind the hits—take center stage.

It’s a sit-down venue where the music actually comes first. You’ll hear stripped-down performances and the stories behind songs you know by heart, told by the folks who wrote them. It’s intimate, emotional, and often a lot funnier than you’d expect.

The vibe is laid-back but respectful: people are here to listen, not shout over each other. Grab dinner (the burgers and flatbreads are local favorites), order a drink, and settle in for a night that feels less like a concert and more like hanging out in someone’s living room—if that someone happened to be a Grammy-winning songwriter.

7. National Museum of African American Music

If you want to understand the true heartbeat of American music, the National Museum of African American Music is essential. This museum weaves through the history of gospel, blues, jazz, hip-hop, R&B, and rock—all rooted in the African American experience.

The exhibits are immersive and interactive: you’ll listen to spirituals born from slavery, groove to Motown legends, rap with early hip-hop pioneers, and discover how modern pop still echoes these deep roots.

8. Explore Fifth + Broadway

Right across from the Ryman Auditorium, Fifth + Broadway is where old Nashville meets new Nashville in the best possible way. It’s a shiny, modern complex packed with restaurants, shops, rooftop bars, and local boutiques.

You can grab street tacos, shop for vintage records, sip Tennessee whiskey on a patio, or just chill and people-watch from a shaded courtyard. It's lively but not overwhelming—a perfect basecamp for downtown exploring.

Inside, you’ll also find the Assembly Food Hall, with dozens of local food vendors offering everything from ramen to craft doughnuts. Even if you’re not big on shopping, the vibe here is pure Nashville: music drifting through the air, friendly crowds, and enough surprises around every corner to keep things interesting.

9. The Grand Ole Opry

You haven’t really done Nashville until you’ve seen a show at the Grand Ole Opry. More than a concert, it’s a living piece of music history where country legends, rising stars, and surprise guests all share the same iconic stage.

Expect a fast-paced mix of performances, with each artist playing a few songs before handing it off to the next. One minute it’s a Hall of Famer; the next, a brand-new artist getting their big break. The energy is electric, the sound is pure, and the tradition feels bigger than the building itself.

Even if you’re not a huge country music fan, the experience is unforgettable. Grab a backstage tour if you can—standing in the famous “circle” where so many greats have stood will give you chills.

10. Radnor Lake State Park

When you need a break from Nashville’s downtown buzz, Radnor Lake State Park is pure magic. This protected natural area offers peaceful wooded trails, stunning lake views, and some of the best wildlife spotting in Middle Tennessee.

Bring your bike (or rent one) and cruise the paved Otter Creek Road, or explore the walking-only trails that wind through the woods. Deer, turtles, herons, and even the occasional bald eagle are all regulars here.

11. Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery

Whiskey runs deep in Tennessee, and a tour at Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery shows you exactly why. This historic distillery, tucked into the Marathon Village area, offers a rich mix of history, craftsmanship, and (of course) tastings.

You'll learn the fascinating backstory of Charles Nelson, whose pre-Prohibition whiskey empire helped put Tennessee on the spirits map. After decades of dormancy, his descendants brought the family brand roaring back to life—and they’re making some seriously good whiskey in the process.

12. Lower Broadway

Lower Broadway isn’t just a street—it’s a full-blown experience. Neon signs blaze in every color. Live music pours out of every door, from noon to 2 a.m. Cowboy boots clack against the sidewalks. It’s loud, crowded, a little chaotic—and totally unforgettable.

Start at the riverfront and make your way uphill, popping into legendary honky-tonks like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, Robert’s Western World, and Legends Corner. No cover charges, just nonstop bands playing everything from classic country to rock covers to originals that’ll stop you in your tracks.

It’s touristy, sure—but also deeply authentic. This is where Nashville’s past and present collide, where today’s buskers could be tomorrow’s stars. Lower Broadway is messy, magical, and completely necessary. Bring your best dance moves—and maybe some earplugs.

13. Etch Restaurant

If you're ready for a night out that’s a little more refined than fried chicken and beer, Etch delivers. This downtown gem pairs bold global flavors with a sleek, welcoming vibe—and it’s a favorite among locals who know where to eat beyond Broadway.

The menu changes often but expect creative dishes like roasted cauliflower with truffled pea purée, duck confit, and lamb meatballs that feel more Mediterranean than Southern. The open kitchen layout means you can watch the chefs at work, adding a bit of theater to your meal.

14. Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery

Belle Meade blends Southern charm, deep history, and a little bit of wine—all in one beautiful stop. Originally a 5,400-acre plantation, today the site focuses on telling the full, complex story of the estate, including the contributions of the enslaved people who lived and worked there.

Tours walk you through the Greek Revival mansion, slave quarters, carriage house, and sprawling grounds. Knowledgeable guides don’t shy away from history’s harder truths, making the experience both eye-opening and meaningful.

Afterward, reward yourself with a complimentary wine tasting at the on-site winery, known for its small-batch muscadine and blackberry wines. It’s an elegant, thoughtful stop that shows a very different side of Nashville from the honky-tonk bustle downtown.

15. East Nashville

If you want to feel like you’re in on Nashville’s best-kept secret, head to East Nashville. This artsy, slightly rebellious neighborhood is packed with indie coffee shops, vintage boutiques, record stores, street art, and some of the best food and live music you’ll find anywhere in the city.

It’s less polished than downtown—but in the best way possible. Grab brunch at a local café, hunt for hidden murals, or stumble into a bar where tomorrow’s next big songwriter is playing a casual set.

East Nashville has layers: it’s soulful, creative, a little gritty, and deeply local. Spend a few hours wandering, and you'll understand why so many people come here for a visit—and end up never wanting to leave.

16. The Hermitage

For a fascinating step into Tennessee’s past, take a tour of The Hermitage. Set on 1,100 acres just outside downtown Nashville, this historic site brings you into the world of Andrew Jackson—warts and all.

You’ll walk through the beautifully restored mansion, explore the original slave quarters, gardens, and Jackson’s tomb, and hear stories that reveal the complexity of both the man and his era. The self-guided audio tour lets you move at your own pace, while interpretive guides offer deeper dives if you want them.

17. Schermerhorn Symphony Center

If you're craving a night that's a little more polished than honky-tonks and bar crawls, the Schermerhorn Symphony Center is your move. This stunning concert hall hosts the Grammy-winning Nashville Symphony, along with visiting jazz legends, pop stars, and even full-orchestra movie screenings.

The building itself is a showpiece—bright, elegant, and designed for near-perfect acoustics. Even if classical music isn’t normally your thing, catching a show here feels special. The energy is focused but not stuffy, and the crowd tends to be lively rather than buttoned-up.

If your trip needs a touch of elegance—or just a break from neon and noise—this is the kind of experience that reminds you how wide Nashville’s creative range really is.

18. Country Music Hall of Fame

Sure, it's touristy. But it’s touristy for a reason. The Country Music Hall of Fame is beautifully curated, genuinely interactive, and packed with enough legends, outfits, and guitars to satisfy even casual music fans.

Massive exhibits cover everyone from Hank Williams to Taylor Swift, showing how country music evolved—and how it keeps bending and blending into new forms. You’ll see Elvis’s gold Cadillac, Patsy Cline’s handwritten letters, stage costumes bedazzled within an inch of their lives, and even vintage recording equipment.

There's also an optional tour of Historic RCA Studio B bundled with admission—and trust me, it’s worth it. The Hall of Fame isn’t just a museum; it’s a living, breathing part of Nashville’s story, and walking through it feels like flipping through the soundtrack of America.

19. Now and Then

If your Nashville morning needs something more thoughtful than a chain coffee run, swing by Now and Then. Tucked into East Nashville, this cozy, design-forward café isn’t just about caffeine—it’s about community and storytelling.

Every cup here comes with a little more heart, whether it’s a fair-trade pour-over, a specialty latte with local honey, or a house-made pastry that tastes like someone's grandma still runs the kitchen. The vibe is chill without being pretentious, and there’s often local art displayed on the walls or fresh vinyl spinning behind the counter.

20. The Parthenon

Yes, Nashville has a full-size Greek temple. Yes, it’s completely awesome.

The Parthenon sits right in the middle of Centennial Park and makes for one of the most surreal—and oddly photogenic—stops in the city. Outside, the towering columns and detailed architecture create the perfect backdrop for jaw-dropping photos. Inside, you’ll find a 42-foot-tall statue of Athena, plus an art museum with a surprisingly great collection of 19th- and 20th-century American paintings.

Whether you’re an architecture nerd, an art lover, or just someone who loves a good “wait, where am I?” moment, the Parthenon hits that sweet spot. Plus, the surrounding park is a perfect place to relax after your mini-trip to ancient Greece.

21. Nashville Bagel Crawl

Yes, the Nashville Bagel Crawl is a real thing—and yes, your carb cravings are about to be very, very happy. This unofficial (but totally delicious) adventure invites you to hop around town sampling the city’s best bagels, each spot offering a different twist.

Start early at Proper Bagel near Belmont for artisan toppings like lavender cream cheese, then head to Star Bagel Café for a classic smoked salmon experience. If you’re still standing, East Nashville's Bagelshop has chewy, New York-style bagels that draw big local crowds.

The beauty of the Bagel Crawl? No reservations, no rules—just carbs, coffee, and pure joy.

22. Category 10 Bar by Luke Combs

If you love Luke Combs—or just want a giant, comfy bar where the whiskey flows and the music’s always on point—Category 10 is your spot. Opened in 2024, this massive honky-tonk fits Luke’s larger-than-life style perfectly.

Think multiple stages, rooftop patios with skyline views, southern comfort food (fried green tomatoes, brisket sliders), and ice-cold beer in mason jars. There’s even a memorabilia wall featuring guitars, outfits, and behind-the-scenes photos from Luke’s rise to fame.

23. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park feels like Nashville’s secret history classroom—except it’s outdoors, beautifully landscaped, and comes with a skyline view.

Set at the base of the State Capitol, this 19-acre park weaves Tennessee’s past into its paths and monuments. Wander through the massive granite map of the state, read the timelines etched in stone, or check out the Pathway of History—a series of 31 monuments telling the story of Tennessee’s formation.

There’s also a stunning WWII Memorial and a giant set of carillon bells that ring out patriotic tunes at the top of each hour. It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs, soak up some history, and snap a few skyline selfies. Quiet, thoughtful, and surprisingly moving.

Conclusion

Nashville isn't just a city you visit—it’s a feeling you carry home. It's the sound of a songwriter sharing a story you didn’t know you needed to hear. It’s the taste of hot chicken you’ll dream about long after your trip ends. It's the buzz of a neon-lit street blending into the sunset over a park where a full-sized Greek temple stands tall.

Whether you're here for the music, the food, the history, or just the vibe, Nashville finds a way to leave a mark. You don’t have to plan every second. Half the magic is stumbling into the unexpected—a killer live set at a bar you almost skipped, a mural tucked in an alleyway, a conversation with a stranger who just might be the next big thing.

So take this guide as a starting point, not a checklist. Pick a few highlights that spark your curiosity, then leave the rest open for discovery.

You can also get good deals on Nashville vacation rentals on Karta.

FAQ

1. What is Nashville best known for?

Nashville is best known as "Music City," famous for its live music, country music heritage, honky-tonks on Broadway, and the Grand Ole Opry. But it’s also a rising food, art, and cultural hub.

2. Is Nashville worth visiting even if I’m not a country music fan?

Absolutely. While country music runs deep, Nashville’s scene is diverse—you’ll find everything from indie rock and blues to jazz, hip-hop, and world-class food, museums, and parks.

3. When is the best time to visit Nashville?

March through May and September through November are ideal. You’ll hit great weather, festival season, and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months.

4. What’s the weather like in Nashville?

Nashville has hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters. Spring and fall are generally sunny and pleasant, with average temperatures between 60°F and 80°F.

5. How far is downtown Nashville from the airport?

Downtown Nashville is about a 15-minute drive from Nashville International Airport (BNA), depending on traffic.

6. What areas should I stay in when visiting Nashville?

Downtown, The Gulch, East Nashville, and Midtown are great choices depending on your vibe—whether you want nightlife, food, live music, or a quieter local feel.