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40+ things to do in Nashville, TN

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Try an ice bumper car at Gaylord Opryland Resort’s “A Country Christmas” | Photo via @gaylordoprylandresort

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The holidays are almost here and if you’re hosting out of town guests in Nashville but aren’t sure where to take them or what sights to see, we’ve got plenty of recommendations for you to build the perfect itinerary for your visitors.

Stay

If your visitors are not staying with you, here are some NASHtoday-approved places to stay:

Virgin Hotels Nashville, 1 Music Sq. W. | Price

This boutique hotel is located in the heart of Music Row., and you can workout in the 24/7 gym, eat at the Commons Club restaurant, or enjoy a cocktail at the rooftop Pool Club.

21c Museum Hotel, 221 2nd Ave. N. | Price

This unique hotel is located just blocks away from Nissan Stadium, Bridgestone Arena + the entertainment along Broadway. It also features a full art museum and Gray & Dudley restaurant.

Courtyard Marriott Green Hills, 3800 Bedford Ave. | Price

This affordable hotel is located in Green Hills, right outside of downtown and just minutes away from the Bluebird Café and The Mall at Green Hills. Features a rooftop heated pool, luxurious courtyard, and fitness center.

For the whole family

Let the kids — or grandkidsrun around + explore the Adventure Science Center or plan your escape with the whole family at The Escape Game Nashville.

See a kid-friendly show at TPAC, like “Charlie Brown Christmas,” which is playing from Dec. 16-22.

Load up the car and spend the afternoon exploring the Nashville Zoo or take the family bowling at the Tusculum Strike & Spare.

Outdoor activities

If your visitors are ready for some outdoor fun, we have a variety of parks to explore. Grab some chicken sandwiches from Red’s 615 Kitchen + head to Centennial Park for a picnic. Visiting Radnor Lake is the perfect way to get some fresh air while taking in all of the beauty Nashville has to offer.

One of the best things about our city is our proximity to some amazing hiking spots. Here is our guide to a range of hikes in the area.

Indoor activities

Temps this time of year can get as low as 30°, so spend a day exploring one of these Nashville museums to stay warm.

Nashville also boasts an excellent theater scene. Catch a touring Broadway show at TPAC or check out the upcoming productions at Nashville Repertory Theatre and Nashville Children’s Theatre.

If you’ve got any sports fans in the group, check out all of the local basketball games taking place this winter.

Food + bev

If your guests need coffee to get going in the morning, but you’re not exactly a barista, Frothy Monkey, Bongo Java, and Barista Parlor are all offering a range of seasonal drinks.

Nashville is also home to 40 breweries. Jackalope Brewing Company, Bearded Iris Brewing, Yazoo Brewing Company, or Nashville Brewing Company are some local favorites that are staples of the community.

Need plans after sunset? See the city from a rooftop bar: L.A. Jackson, L27, and Up!.

As for food — our personal favorites include Hattie B’s, Peg Leg Porker BBQ, Etch, and brunch at Sinema. Brunch in Nashville is an absolute must.

We love The Southern Steak & Oyster, Arnold’s Country Kitchen, Red Headed Stranger + Virago and recommend satisfying your sweet tooth at Five Daughters Bakery. Pro tip: order the S’mores doughnut while it’s still in season.

We’ve also got plenty of articles to help you navigate the local food scene. You can’t miss Nashville’s newest additions, and there’s also a variety of healthy options.

And if you’re gluten free, we’ve got you covered. Check out a list of 20+ local restaurants with gluten free options.

Sightseeing

Is it even a trip to Nashville without seeing Broadway? You can also take your visitors to WhatLiftsYou mural (302 11th Ave. S.) for a family photo op. If you’ve got any history buffs in the group, head to the Jefferson Street Sound Museuma legacy of music + entertainment.

Aren’t satisfied? No worries. Check out our November events calendar for a roundup of unique events happening around town this month.

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