Irrefutably synonymous with country and western music, and often dubbed the ‘Country Music Capital of the World’, Tennessee’s Nashville offers a lot more than cowboys and diddley-eye songs, and is in fact something of a regional commercial and cultural center. With a variety of large companies based here and no shortage of museums and art galleries on hand, it offers visitors a unique stay.
Contrary to other developments, music lies at the heart of Nashville and is for many, its primary attraction. Locations such as the Grand Ole Opry are central to the scene, helping to promote up-and-coming acts while still playing host to famous established ones. For a great insight into the history of country music, a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is essential.
Should you require a break from line dancing, the Nashville Zoo gives respite, as do venues such as Laser Quest and the Adventure Science Center. Meanwhile, more cultural interests can be indulged at the Tennessee State Museum or the Tennessee Performing Arts Center. Back on the music scene, if you haven’t been convinced of country music’s razzmatazz, hit ‘Music Valley’ for even more glitter and cowboy boots.
Nashville attractions
Grand Ole Opry: the classic country music radio show, now televised, is broadcasted from the Opryland complex and regularly features some of country music’s most famous names.
Country Music Hall of Fame: a dedicated country music museum with a treasure chest of artifacts relating to famous names in the scene, among which are stage costumes, musical instruments and original song manuscripts.
Parthenon: this full-size replica of Greece’s ancient Parthenon is home to the city’s art museum, where four galleries display the works of 19th and 20th century American artists.
Ryman Auditorium: the city’s chief live music venue has hosted big names from country and western and other genres since it opened in 1892.
Tennessee Performing Arts Center: opera, ballet and orchestral music are top of the agenda at this popular cultural entertainment center.
Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art: this graceful mansion, erected in the late 1920s, is part of an estate that now features botanical gardens and contemporary art galleries.
Nashville Zoo: a collection of animals from around the world are on show in a series of themed sections.