10 Best Things to Do in Downtown Nashville

The Frist Art Museum is an excellent destination to experience the visual arts. In fact, this museum has a point of difference that makes it a fascinating place to visit. Instead of offering a permanent collection, the Frist collaborates with leading international galleries to assemble its exhibitions while working to secure top traveling shows.

Alongside educational programs and community outreach activities, the expansive Frist Art Museum is home to a stellar gift shop that showcases local and regional art books, clothing, jewelry, and more. Inside, the Martin ArtQuest Gallery is perfect for children who enjoy engaging in interactive art-making experiences.

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum celebrates Nashville's remarkable musical legacy. Established in 1967, the museum offers one of the world's largest collections of music memorabilia. Spanning thousands of instruments, sound recordings, costumes, vehicles, and more, these artifacts and archival materials capture the vast history of country music.

Located in a striking building that reflects its music collection through its design and materials, visitors can explore objects such as Elvis Presley's Cadillac towncar and Bob Wills's fiddle. Additionally, exhibitions and family activities provide opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the fun. Make your way to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to discover why Nashville is known as Music City.

The Ryman Auditorium is considered Nashville's most famous music venue. Opened in 1892 as the Union Gospel Tabernacle, the historic space has undergone numerous changes over the years. However, it is best known for its long-standing association with the Grand Ole Opry – an iconic live country music radio program that started in 1925.

Acclaimed by leading experts for its remarkable acoustic qualities, the Ryman Auditorium hosts live performances from the biggest names in music, comedy, and theater. Ryman Auditorium is nicknamed the "Mother Church," and revered stars such as Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, The Foo Fighters, and countless others have performed there over the decades.

The Nashville Farmers' Market has an enduring history, with its origins stretching back to the 1800s. Running alongside Bicentennial Mall State Park, this daily market presents deliciously fresh cuisine from the region's top farmers, artisans, and independent producers.

Focused on sustainability, diversity, and access to fresh produce, the Nashville Farmers' Market features 2 open-air sheds, a garden center, and a food hall with 20 eateries and stores. Head along to stock up on mouthwatering seasonal flavors and special locally made treats.

The National Museum of African American Music is where visitors to Nashville can appreciate the African-American community's leading role in over 50 music genres and styles. From blues and jazz to gospel and hip-hop, six fascinating spaces explore this incredible narrative through rare collections of objects, memorabilia, and artifacts.

Opened in 2021, this state-of-the-art space offers an in-depth look at some of music's most defining figures. In the National Museum of African American Music's collection, you'll find outfits worn by James Brown, Jimi Hendrix, and Whitney Houston. Additionally, instruments, vintage photos, and unique albums connect and educate visitors about this remarkable story.

Fifth + Broadway is the ideal place for a shopping adventure in the Downtown Nashville area. With over 20 retailers, this upmarket destination is perfect for indulging in lavish fashion and electronics. Notably, dedicated stores for renowned brands such as Nike, Apple, Carhartt, and Ray-Ban can be found here.

Moreover, if dining is also on your agenda, Fifth + Broadway has gotten you covered. It offers an extensive collection of restaurants and bars, providing virtually every cuisine imaginable. Additionally, a massive food hall with another 30 options awaits you. Alongside a museum, performance spaces, and more, Fifth + Broadway is unquestionably a must-visit shopping mall.

Bridgestone Arena is the premier destination for sports fans visiting Nashville. As the home of the Nashville Predators of the National Hockey League, the majority of games boast sell-out crowds as enthusiastic fans flock to witness the thrilling action on the ice. Furthermore, the sports calendar is brimming with college basketball games, UFC events, and captivating wrestling extravaganzas.

Moreover, Bridgestone Arena stands as one of the city's top venues for spectacular live music performances, comedy shows, and family-oriented events. With its top-notch facilities, including numerous bars and dining neighborhoods, ample parking, and premium lounges, attending an event at this exceptional venue while in Nashville is an excellent idea.

Printer's Alley is a beloved nightlife strip in Downtown Nashville. Named for its connection with the 20th-century publishing industry, as the alley was once lined with newspapers and print shops, it’s now one of the city’s best places for bars, restaurants and late-night venues.

With daylight replaced by bright neon signs, bars like Alley Taps, Fleet Street Pub, and Skull’s Rainbow Room offer a wealth of boozy experiences, ranging from English-style alehouses to burlesque speakeasies. With so many places to choose from, finding the right vibe for your night out has never been simpler.

Standard Proof Whiskey Co. offers visitors a glimpse into how Tennessee and Nashville have enjoyed a close relationship with whiskey since the beginning. Focused on naturally infused and straight rye whiskey, this popular micro-distillery serves up a high-end selection of beverages produced around the state.

In the tasting room, Standard Proof Whiskey Co.'s expert bartenders serve refined, full-flavored whiskey straight or blended into cocktails. Then, for those looking to gain even more insight into these mesmerizing beverages, the venue also offers cocktail-making classes in a fun and interactive setting.

The Wildhorse Sedan is a superb spot to experience Nashville's lively hospitality and country music culture. Spanning three massive levels, it is the city's largest live entertainment venue, offering free line dancing lessons multiple times daily on the dance floor. Supported by live music, there is no better place to learn the ropes.

Furthermore, the Wildhorse Sedan also features an extensive family-friendly restaurant where you can feast on burgers, steaks, wings, and more. Alongside top-quality performances from local and international bands, this Nashville institution is a great place to immerse yourself in the city's beloved activities.