Nashville for Music Lovers

PHOTO: Nashville photo by Jim Nix via Flick

Any fellow country music lovers out there? We hope so, because today we’re talking about the one and only ‘Music City’, otherwise known as Nashville, Tennessee!

Nashville’s musical tradition stems from its very foundation in the 1700s, when Nashville was first known for its fiddle n’ jubilee musical acts.  Fast-forward to the 21^st century and Nashville is still known as the ‘Songwriting Capital of the World’, with the likes of Tim McGraw, Keith Urban, Martina McBride and Alan Jackson all calling the city home.

Of course the city also boasts attractions such as the Country Music Hall of Fame, Country Music Television and over 120 live music venues—including the world-renowned Grand Ol’ Opry.

Music lovers will have little time to spare in Nashville. To make sure you get the most out of your time in the Music City, here are a few spots that can’t be missed:

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Caption: Country Music Hall of Fame by Tom Bastin via Flickr

The perfect way to start your trip is with a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Get to know the background of some of the more famous names that have made it into the Hall of Fame, like Johnny Cash and Roy Acuff.

The building also houses a permanent collection of over 800 costumes, more than 600 instruments and hundreds of other important objects. Additional exhibits include moving images dating back to 1920, a sound collection that includes 98 percent of all pre-World War II country recordings ever made and Elvis’ gold-plated car. Even non-country music lovers will find something to intrigue them here. Tickets for adults are $24.95 and $14.95 for youth.

The Bluebird Café

Caption: Intimate setting at the Bluebird Café by Karen Miller via Flickr

This world-famous venue is set in an intimate café where the next up and coming stars gather for jam sessions. On our last visit we caught a show of four acoustic guitarists who had written songs for Keith Urban, Alan Jackson and Tim McGraw; the crowd was moved to tears on multiple occasions throughout the 2-hour performance.

With that kind of talent, the Bluebird Café is no secret around town and seats sell out fast. Tickets are $12 per person plus a minimum of $7 on food or drink once inside. The Bluebird Café hosts shows all seven nights a week.

Broadway Street

PHOTO: Broadway Street at Night by Corey Seeman via Flickr

When the sun goes down it’s time to make your way over to Broadway Street. This honky-tonk highway lives up to the hype with tons of live music venues and bars that keep the music going until 3 a.m. There are plenty of spots to choose from; we recommend poking your head into a few to find the locale that most interests you.

The Ryman is possibly the most famous venue in Nashville. It’s home to the Grand Old Opry, “the show that made country music famous.” Opened in the late 1800’s, it’s now registered as a National Historic Landmark. Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Louis Armstrong and Bruce Springsteen are just a few of the names that have performed here. Die-hard music lovers won’t want to miss a backstage tour of the legendary venue. 

Robert’s Western World is also quite unique. This boot store by day turns honky-tonk after dark. The local favorite has attracted stars such as Merle Haggard, Tom Petty, Kid Rock and Rascal Flatts.

We ended up at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge ourselves. A rough and tough little bar, music stars have been known to stumble in the back door after playing at the Ryman just behind it.

The Pancake Pantry

PHOTO: Pancake Pantry by Adam Fagen via Flickr

After a long night of live music and loud noises, it’s time to reflect upon your experience at the Pancake Pantry. The 53-year old family institution is legendary around town, and if you’re lucky you may even catch a glimpse of superstars Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman, known for eating their fair share of pancakes here. We recommend getting the Sweet Potato Pancakes—you won’t be disappointed.

The Nashville Symphony

You don’t have to be a country music lover to appreciate Nashville. For example, the Grammy-winning Nashville Symphony is known for its diverse mix of classical, pop, jazz and family programs, ensuring something for just about anyone. The symphony performs 140 concerts annually; check the concert calendar to see which align with your travel itinerary. 

So what are you waiting for? Grab your cowboy boots and get ready to enjoy the tunes in America’s one and only ‘Music City!’

Have you been to Nashville? What tips would you add for music lovers?