Nashville Explore Local With RVshare

Ah, Nashville, Tennessee. The so-called birthplace of country music (though that’s actually contested by nearby Bristol) — and a whole lot of other music besides.

If you’ve called Nashville home for a while, now might be the perfect time to explore a new neighborhood, or hit the road to see up close and personal what the nearby state and national parks are like. You might also visit one of the grand plantations in the area, including Andrew Jackson’s hermitage just half an hour outside of town.

No matter what you do in the Tennessee countryside, we know you’re going to enjoy this area’s unique combination of southern charm, cowboy swagger, and cosmopolitan sensibilities. Without further ado, here’s what to do next time you find yourself with the urge to explore Nashville.

*Note: Some of the suggestions may not be doable due to coronavirus closures, but keep this list handy for when things start opening back up more! Be sure to check individual pages for specific operation details.

There are a bevy of state and even national parks in the greater Nashville, TN area. Here are some to check out.

Cedars of Lebanon State Park  is named for the eastern red cedar trees that populate the land, which reminded early American settlers of the cedar forests said to thrive on Mount Lebanon in the Bible. At 1,139 acres, the park isn’t humongous, but it’s well worth a visit, offering RV-friendly campsites as well as rental cabins.

Henry Horton State Park is just an hour south of Nashville, but once you arrive, you’ll feel like you stepped onto a different planet. It was constructed in the 1960s on the site of an estate once held by a governor of Tennessee, and its riverside location makes it a great option for water lovers looking for a getaway.

Long Hunter State Park  is a quick 30 minutes from the center of town, and offers visitors the chance to relax and recreate around waterfronts, hiking and biking trails — and also to visit a Native American archeological site.

Montgomery Bell State Park is a wilderness of more than 3,700 acres that also offers modern amenities like a conference center. The park hosts a wide range of organized events, including fun runs, night sky viewings, and golf cart safaris.

Radnor Lake State Park  may just be a stone’s throw from Nashville proper, but its beautiful lakefront views will take you right out of the hustle bustle. Swing by the Barbara J. Mapp Aviary Education Center for information about events, educational outings, hiking opportunities, and more.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the largest national parks in the register, and also the most popular to visit. Straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, this unique wilderness is chock full of trails to hike on, wildflowers to admire, and winding country roads to relax on.

Mammoth Cave National Park may not be as famous as Carlsbad Caverns — but it’s actually the largest cave system not only in the country but in the world (that we’ve discovered so far!). Keep in mind that excursions down into the caves themselves require a guided tour, which you should plan and book ahead of time before your visit.

Both inside and outside of the parks in the area, there are plenty of places to wander on foot. Here are some of the best hiking trails in Nashville.

Mossy Ridge Trail

Located in Percy Warner Park, Mossy Ridge Trail is a moderate adventure spanning a total of just under 5 miles, including a few steep (and a few gradual) inclines. It’s got relaxing, woodsy vibes and will take you right out of your big city mentality if you let it!

Radnor Lake Ganier Ridge Trail

If you make the quick jaunt out to Radnor Lake State Park, you’ll have several hiking options to choose from — but we recommend the Ganier Ridge Trail, which offers a lot of payoff in its short, 2.3-mile distance. Enjoy both the lakefront and the dense forest cover!

Beaman Park Loop

This 5.5-mile loop is known for its wildflowers and creekside views, and it’s a good one for the dogs to join in on, too! Just make sure to keep them leashed, per the park guidelines, and remember that the trail might be crowded if you’re visiting on the weekend.

Once you’ve wandered the trails and explored the state and national parks, chances are you’ll have drummed up something of an appetite. no worries! Here are some of the best restaurants in Nashville, from Italian to vegan to the must-have classics (we’re looking at you, hot chicken).

Hattie B’s

If there’s one must-do experience in Nashville, it’s getting a plate of hot chicken at Hattie B’s. Yes, it’s touristy, and yes, it’s been offered on every single Nashville visitation guide ever created… but listen, some things are popular for a reason! Just be sure you know exactly how much spice you can handle before you get in line. (Or, heck, maybe you can figure it out while you’re *in* the line since goodness knows you’re probably going to be standing there a while.)

Graze Nashville

In a town known for hot chicken and barbecue, following a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle may not be the norm… but that doesn’t mean you can’t do it. Graze is a well-known eatery offering plant-based breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, as well as a delectable selection of cocktails from its full bar.

Pastaria

Italian is in no matter where in the world you find yourself, and Pastaria is a great place to head for some delicious, freshly-crafted carbohydrate treats. From a classic Pomodoro to pistachio ravioli, this is a joint where classic meets creative.

O-Ku Sushi

Nashville may be landlocked, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some delicious treats from the sea — and if you’re into sushi of any variety, O-Ku is a must-visit. Per their own reportage, the restaurant “celebrates authentic Asian cuisine with a southern approach with a menu that focuses on unique ingredients and sophisticated presentations.” Sounds like a winner, winner, sushi dinner to us!

Saint Añejo

You might be significantly north of the border, but there is a wide enough variety that it’s hard to choose which is the best of the Mexican restaurants in Nashville. That said, Saint Añejo makes a pretty good case for itself — and you can wash down your nachos, tacos, and other Mexican favorites with one of its more than 120 varieties of mezcal or tequila.

Here are some of the best things to do in Nashville this weekend, whether you’re with the kids, arm-in-arm with your sweetheart, or adventuring solo.

For Kids and Families

Bringing the kids along for an adventure? Here are some family-friendly attractions in Nashville.

Hatch Show Print

This historic print shop has churned out iconic artwork for local shows for the last 140 years — and you and your family can tour the guts of the space where it all happens! Learn about how letterpress works by actually experimenting with it yourself. Best of all, tickets for touring Hatch Show Print start at just $20 for adults and $15 for youth visitors.

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

You may think your family isn’t interested in country music — but have you taken them to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum yet? Getting an up-close and personal look at this museum’s extensive collection of exhibits may just change the game and get your kids crooning along to Johnny Cash.

Nashville Zoo

No kid’s experience of a city is complete without a trip to the local zoo — and the Nashville Zoo is a great one. Home to over 6,200 individual animals representing 339 species, kids will love the opportunity to get familiar with some exotic friends, whether furred or feathered.

At Night

We’ve covered some of the best things to do in Nashville during the day — but what about once night falls? Here are some fun things to add to your to-do list — beyond the bars.

Grand Ole Opry

You’ve certainly heard of it, and if you’re a Nashville local, you may have passed by it for years without ever giving it a second thought. But you can still see the live shows recorded for radio at the Grand Ole Opry, and if you’re looking for something to do after hours besides hit one of Nashville’s many bars, this is a pretty solid option.

Full Moon Pickin’ Parties

Yes, it’s pickin’ with the “g” dropped. Full Moon Pickin’ Parties happen in Nashville monthly (or more) on the full moon, and involve live music from a variety of different string instruments — but perhaps most importantly banjo. Full Moon Pickin’ Parties are a fun, festival atmosphere that differs from the city’s bars and clubs, and it’s a great option for those looking for things to do for couples or families in Nashville.

On the Cheap

You want to see the city, not spend every cent you’ve ever earned! Here are some cheap thrills in Nashville, TN.

Line Dancing Lessons at Wildhorse Saloon

If you can’t do a proper line dance by the end of it, can you really say you’ve been to Nashville? Fortunately, Wildhorse Saloon offers complimentary line dancing lessons seven days a week on the largest dance floor in the city. Private line dancing lessons are also available… but you’ll need to pay for those! (You might also want to grab a drink, in either case, to be polite — and to loosen up a bit!)

Free Things to Do in Nashville

It’s true: there are some things to do in this city that won’t cost you one red cent. Here are some free things to do to get an authentic taste of Nashville without even touching your wallet.

John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

Whether you traipse across it in the daylight or wait for night’s fall for a romantic wander, the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge offers a whole lot of payoff, especially considering it’s totally free. Built in 1907-1909 and originally named the Sparkman Street Bridge, this pedestrian bridge offers beautiful skyline views, great sunsets, and also the chance to feel like a small part of the city’s greater history.

The Parthenon

Think you have to jet set off to Greece to see the Parthenon? Well, if you want the 447 BC original, you do. But if you’re in Nashville, you can check out America’s version at Centennial Park for the low, low cost of free! That said, this one’s got a bit of history to it, too; it was originally constructed in 1897 for Tennessee’s Centennial Exposition.

Spas in Nashville

Looking for some R&R after a lot of exploration? Here are some spas and salons in Nashville to help you look and feel your best.

The Woodhouse Day Spa

Whether you’re looking for a massage or a facial, The Woodhouse Day Spa is considered one of Nashville’s best — and given its convenient midtown location, it’s accessible to residents who live in a variety of Nashville neighborhoods!

Spa Haus Nashville

Skincare, waxing, massage, sauna, facials — you name it, Spa Haus Nashville offers it, including reiki energy healing. Renowned for its quality services and caring, knowledgeable staff, Spa Haus enjoys a high number of good reviews for very good reason.

Best Gyms & Yoga Studios

Staying strong and grounded is critical for any adventurer! Here are the best gyms and yoga studios in Nashville to help you keep up with your daily routine.

Takes 2 Fitness

Fitness isn’t a destination, it’s a journey — and bringing along the right team for the journey makes it a whole lot more possible, not to mention more fun. Takes 2 Fitness offers a comprehensive swath of gym and fitness equipment as well as access to the personal training you need to make your goals a reality.

Gym 5

Located in East Nashville and locally owned, Gym 5 offers all the equipment and motivation you need to meet your goals and grow stronger, faster, and better. Along with an extensive open gym, this fitness club also hosts a wide range of classes, including boxing, spin, TRX training, and more.

Inner Light Yoga Nashville

Want your yoga to be a little bit more… well… fun? Inner Light Yoga is all about raising your heartbeat, getting you aligned, and doing so to the backdrop of great music and a friendly atmosphere. In short, it’s fun. (Yes, actually.) And it’s a great studio to put on your list if you’re in the market for yoga in Nashville.

Hot Yoga Plus

Some like it hot — and if that’s you, and you’re in Nashville, Hot Yoga Plus has got you covered. Offering several different flavors of flow, most of which are heated, you can find something here for whatever your body happens to need… even if it’s a bit more gentle.

You could easily keep busy in Nashville itself for a lifetime… but there are also some incredible opportunities to take advantage of within an easy day’s drive! Here are some day trips to consider taking from Nashville.

Memphis

Although three hours isn’t exactly a nothing drive, it’s not too _far… and if you have a long weekend to spend, Memphis is a great getaway option from Nashville. Explore Graceland and become an Elvis fan (even if you _ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog), or just wander around Beale Street.

Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage

A true day trip, Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage is only half an hour outside of the city, but the pristine grounds will make you feel like you’ve stepped out of the modern-day entirely. From the mansion to the manicured land surrounding it, this is an idyllic trip into southern history — though it’s critical to remember that the true source of Andrew Jackson’s wealth was slavery, which is why the organizers have made sure to include ample information about the Black families who lived and worked on this plantation, too.

Chattanooga

Head a couple of hours southwest of Nashville and you’ll find yourself in another famous Tennessee town: Chattanooga, home of the famous choo-choo. It’s also home to the sprawling urban expanse known as Tennessee RiverPark, which allows you to wander more than 10 miles from the urban core to the Chickamauga Dam. Don’t forget to visit Rock City and Ruby Falls!

As a final reminder, some of these activities may need to wait until businesses fully reopen from coronavirus closures. However, there is still much to see and experience in Nashville that you can enjoy today! What are your favorite spots in Nashville? Send them our way to [email protected] or by tagging us on Instagram @rvshare and using the hashtag #rvsharelocal.