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12+ activities for retired locals in Nashville

If you recently retired and are looking for things to do, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Music City.

A group of 50+ adults on a field trip

Learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom — OLLI includes opportunities to go on group trips + outings. | Photo provided by Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

Table of Contents

Goodbye, 9-5. If you (or someone you know) recently retired, you might be looking for activities catering to older adults. Clock into our retirement guide, and find opportunities in Nashville that work for you.

For the curious mind

It’s never too late to hone in on new skills while making friends. Enter: Vanderbilt University’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, a relaxed learning environment (yes, that means no homework or tests) designed for adults 50 years and older. Bonus: Many courses are recorded.

For the athlete

If you’re not planning on slowing down in your retirement, keep moving with fitness classes designed for older Nashvillians.

  • Metro Parks Senior Recreation Program offers activities for adults 55 years and older at three senior sites: East, Elizabeth, and Hadley, as well as nine satellite programs in neighborhood centers. Try this: Senior Dance Clubs, which often perform at city events.
  • Pick up pickleball at 10+ courts in the Nashville area.
  • Check out YMCA of Middle Tennessee’s “Active Older Adults” program (ages 65+) for yoga, cardio, dance, strength, and circuit classes. Eligible members may qualify for free or low-cost membership plans.
  • Combine your love for history with a leisurely outdoor workout by utilizing Nashville Sites’ walking guides. Bonus: You can take the tours virtually, too.

There’s no wrong way to get fit. Your first step could be as easy as finding walking trails at a local park or exploring one of Nashville’s easier hikes.

A view of musicians playing during one of Nashville Public Library's Courtyard Concerts.

Get the band together and listen to some live music. | Photo by NASHtoday

For the arts enthusiast

Beat the crowds and take a weekday trip to one of Nashville’s many museums, and be on the lookout for senior discounts (we see you, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and Frist Art Museum).

Get hands on through Music for Seniors’ live performance Learning Labs. Think: Instruction for learning a new instrument, digging into the songwriting process, or joining a choral group.

Sit in on one of Nashville Public Library’s free daytime Courtyard Concerts on Tuesdays from late summer through early fall at Church Street Park.

An exterior photo of the entrance to the Frist Art Museum, complete with the flower art display to the right and a banner advertising an exhibition over the stairs.

Volunteers are needed to help in the Martin ArtQuest Gallery, gift shop, and at guest services. | Photo by NASHtoday

For the giver

Whether you’re interested in sharing the history of some of Nashville’s popular landmarks or want to spend time outdoors, volunteer with 50+ local organizations.

For the grandparent

If you’re looking to spend time with the grandchildren, explore these 45 kid-friendly activities in Nashville and pick one that’s your speed.

Bonus: If you need assistance getting to and from places around town, adults 60 years and older can book multi-stop trips at a reduced rate with Senior Ride Nashville. Plus, fuel up for the day’s activities with a Monday through Friday mid-day meal offered via Nashville’s Senior Dining program.

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