The city may be the ultimate pilgrimage for many fans of country music, but you'll find Nashville is a prospering city and a thriving metropolis of things to do. From peaceful lakes to the abundance of arts, hiring car will allow you take in the best this city has to offer.
All-night music
Head for the bright lights of Lower Broadway to find the heart of Nashville’s famous live music scene. Every night of the week, you’ll be able to see live bands play for tips , and restaurants full of musical mementoes.
Nearby you can tour the Ryman Auditorium, the traditional home of the Grand Ole Opry TV show and a major venue for country music stars. Step inside the Country Music Hall of Fame to see exhibits like Hank Williams’ suit and Elvis’s Cadillac. Even the Sawtooth Print Shop, where music posters have been turned out on simple flat-bed presses for decades, has become a Nashville visitor attraction.
Culture and fun
Take a break from the country music scene by enjoying a stroll in the Bicentennial Capitol Mall. This 19-acre city centre park leads up to the Tennessee State Capitol building, a classically styled landmark, which was built before the Civil War.
Try spot Nashville’s own reproduction of the Greek Parthenon - it’s an art gallery alongside a lake. Nearby is Opry Mills, which gives you a chance to browse for bargains in a huge shopping mall with more than 200 stores.
One of the best Nashville experiences to see is the city’s impressive high-rise skyline from the Cumberland River. You can book a cruise on a traditional paddleboat here and dine on board, whilst a live country group serenades you with traditional Nashville music.
Tennessee's great outdoors
Away from the bustle of Nashville's city centre, you can explore the natural beauty on offer in around the city. Head east out of the city and take in the scenic backdrop of Percy Priest Lake - ideal if you're fan of everything outdoors. Take to the lake for a spot of fishing, or wander into the surrounding woodlands for a spot of hiking. Adrenaline-junkies will want to try out the mountain biking routes, or tackle wake boarding or water skiing.
Closer to central Nashville is Selby Park, the perfect for a quick escape into tranquillity. Stroll around the park's footpaths and look out over the water to see if you can spot any of the natural wildlife on offer.
Hire a car in Nashville and you'll be able to take in everything this iconic city has in store.