A Music Lover's Guide To Nashville
Nashville is home to everything music, including attractions, historical sites and venues that host some of the hottest acts in the music industry today. This is because the foundation the city was built upon was all about the music and the music was used to connect the lives of those within the city. Everything about the city, including its culture, business world and society, revolves around music. This is why Nashville is one of the best places for music lovers to visit.
Historic Sites
In addition to being known for its music, there are many historical sites located throughout Nashville. Some are directly related to music history, while others date back to the Civil War. One of the most visited historic sites in Nashville is the Ryman Auditorium. This location was the site a group of Confederate veterans who chose to host a reunion. At the time, the location's balcony was dubbed "The Confederate Gallery" and is still visible at the auditorium today. Since 1925, the Ryman Auditorium became the home of the Grand Ole Opry, which is when the city was officially nicknamed "Music City."
Experience the Honky Tonk Highway up close and personal during your next visit to Nashville. The Honky Tonk Highway is located from the 300 block of Broadway through the 500 block. In this area, you will find Legends Corner, Second Fiddle, Layla's Blue Grass and Robert's Western World.
Two historic sites throughout Nashville that you must visit include the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and Historic RCA Studio B.
Related: Best Historic Vacations in the U.S.
Music Venues
One of the most exciting things to do while in Nashville includes listening to a live music performance. It does not matter if it is the hottest acts coming through town at the larger venues or an unknown group that is just getting their start at some of the smaller venues in the city. Finding a location to enjoy live music in Nashville is easy and should be near the top of your things to do list when visiting the area.
Top music venues in Nashville include:
- Bourbon Street Blues
- Mercy Lounge
- Station Inn
- The Stage on Broadway
- Tootsie's Orchid Lounge
- Wildhorse Saloon
Related: Best Live Music Venues in Orange County
Big Acts Coming To Town
Throughout the year, Nashville hosts a variety of big-name acts who come through town to play for music fans from around the world. Many of these music stars return to where they got their start, often playing in the venues that gave them the opportunity to play in front of an audience before they became huge stars.
Upcoming acts coming to Nashville include:
- March 11, 2015: Santana
- March 22, 2015: The Beach Boys
- March 31, 2015: Vince Gill & Friends
- March 19-21, 2015: Boyz II Men
- March 22, 2015: Nickelback
- March 26, 2015: Kenny Chesney
- March 28, 2015: Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band
- April 7, 2015: Stevie Wonder
- April 11, 2015: Alan Jackson
Visitor Information Center
501 Broadway
Nashville, TN 37203
(615) 259-4747
For all things Nashville, make plans to stop by the Visitor Information Center during your stay. This center offers everything from brochures to tickets and souvenirs and live music. The Center is open to the public and there is no charge to stop by, get some information and stay for the musical performances. The Visitor Information Center is open daily and is located in the glass tower of the Bridgestone Arena.
The next time you are looking to plan a unique and entertaining vacation, consider adding Nashville to your vacation itinerary. Nashville will give you the most musical time of your life no matter how long you have to stay and explore the city.
Heather Landon is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of experience. She has combined two of her passions - writing and travel - to share her experiences with others. You can read more of her articles at Examiner.com.