Many readers have asked us for details on fun + fascinating things to do in Nashville as an older adult. We put out the call to readers and did some research of our own to assemble this list of Music City activities.
🧠 For the curious mind
Vanderbilt University launched the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, a relaxed learning environment (yes, that means no homework or tests) designed for adults 50 years and older. Explore a variety of topics from writing and art to history and music through low-cost, noncredit courses, programs, and trips.
Winter 2023 registration has closed, but you can still call to be considered for late registration, or sign-up for email updates about registration dates and special events. Bonus: Many courses are recorded.
🏓 For the athlete
Let’s move. There are plenty of ways to get your blood pumping. Reader Cindy G. is interested in playing pickleball, and our local parks and rec centers are a great place to start for older adult-specific leagues.
- Davidson County: Activities like dance and other sports designed for adults ages 55+ can be accessed via the “senior adult recreational program” at either the East Regional Center, Elizabeth Senior Center, or Hadley Regional Center.
- Wilson County: Mt. Juliet Parks & Recreation offers pickleball for ages 55+ at a cost of $2 after your membership purchase — choose between competitive, beginners, or intermediate play.
- Williamson County: Registration is open for the cornhole league ($20, February-March) + a pickleball tournament (February 17, $25). Open pickleball (adults 50+) and Wii bowling play cost $1.
Explore yoga, cardio, dance, strength, and circuit classes through the YMCA of Middle Tennessee’s “Active Older Adults” program (ages 65+). Eligible members may qualify for free or low-cost membership plans.
🎻 For the music lover
Music for Seniors is a nonprofit organization that brings ~120+ programs to the older adults in our community each month. The 2023 schedule for free daytime concerts will be released soon, with dates from March through December. Pro tip: You can RSVP for performances on Eventbrite one month in advance. Opt in for email updates. For other ticketed, seated musical experiences, we recommend bookmarking the performance calendar for the Nashville Symphony, the Ryman, and the Grand Ole Opry.
Bonus: Combine your gaming spirit with your music knowledge by attending one of Nerdy Talk Trivia’s Ballad Bingo nights — a name-that-tune-meets-bingo game — which take place at locations across Middle Tennessee.
Plan Ahead: The Nashville Public Library offers free daytime concerts late summer through early fall in the Main Library’s Robinson Courtyard. Get a sneak peek of our experience last year.
🌳 For the nature enthusiast
Get the most out of a Cheekwood membership ($65+) by participating in adult education programs — like floral arrangement, ceramic sculpting, and yoga. Members receive a 20% discount on workshop registration and adults ages 65+ qualify for a $10 discount on a standard level membership. Plus, membership grants you admission at 345+ botanical gardens, arboreta, and conservatories nationwide and over 60 museums in the Southeast.
Combine your love for history with a leisurely outdoor workout by utilizing Nashville Sites’ walking guides. The self-guided tours offer accompanying audio with set stops exploring neighborhoods, early Nashville, and architecture, among other topics. Bonus: You can take the tours virtually, too.
🥘 For the foodie
If you haven’t joined our 2023 restaurant bingo challenge, there’s still time. Visit these 24 eateries across Nashville before the new year and be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a $50 gift card to our online merchandise shop Six & Main.
Plus, Metro Parks’ ”Senior Dining program” offers the 60+ older adult community the chance to eat lunch every Monday through Friday in a group setting. There is no charge for the meals, though donations are encouraged.
With so much to do as an older adult in Nashville, we know we missed out on some activities. Tell us your ideas + we’ll add them to this article.
