Music City has so much more to offer, and it's about time for everybody to realize that.
The People
I didn't really believe in Southern hospitality being a universal thing but when I started travelling to Nashville regularly, it never failed to amaze me how genuinely polite and welcoming the people were. Coming from Chicago, I'm used to brash city-goers, who have little time to dilly dally so they rarely take time to stop and help strangers on the street. But that's not the case in Nashville. From the charming workers on Lower Broadway who always have the cleverest comments and the best recommendations, to the locals who just want everyone to appreciate their city as much as they do. I vividly remember standing outside Pancake Pantry for close to an hour in the pouring rain, and we all shared the wealth of our umbrellas making sure everyone could stay as dry as possible. Even sitting in bars down on Broadway the environment is always so happy and genuinely excited. When you've got a table with a few seats to spare, everyone becomes a new friend.
The Food
Proper Bagel
As a testament to how amazing certain foods are in Nashville: I hadn't eaten red meat in four years and got a whiff of the amazing smoked pulled pork at Puckett's, and the next thing I know I was ordering their Piggy Mac and Cheese (smoked pulled pork under a baked Gouda macaroni and cheese). Every time I've went back to the city since then, I've went out of my way to make sure I get my fix of mac and cheese at Puckett's (the brisket nachos are to die for as well). For breakfast I'm torn between two favorites: Pancake Pantry and Proper Bagel. Both are amazing in their own ways, but Proper Bagel probably wins for convenience.
Lower Broadway
Lower Broadway at sunset
I don't care what anyone says: it's a necessity to spend a full day bar hopping the honky-tonks on Lower Broadway. I absolutely love the environment. Whether you're old enough to drink, or you just want to enjoy some free live music, there's something for everyone. Many bands are comprised of freelance musicians who specialize in different styles of music, so make a request and chances are, someone in the group will be able to play it. Don't feel pressured to be drinking alcohol, the bartenders really don't care as long as you're buying something (and not taking up a table for nothing). My absolute favorite bar on Broadway is Dierks Bentley's Whiskey Row, the food is amazing and the staff is never anything less than pleasant.
The Shopping
Opry Mills Mall
I don't think I've managed to make a trip to the city without spending less than $300 on things other than food, attractions, and hotels. Aside from the tourist shops on Lower Broadway, Nashville is absolutely amazing for shopping. A trip to Opry Mills is an absolute dream for the shopping addict. The mall is always absolutely packed with people, but it's so worth a trip. The combination of regular retail chain stores and regional specialty stores makes the mall a favorite for locals and tourists alike. The parking lot is a bit of a joke, so allow some extra time for navigating the crowded lot (it's just as bad getting out as it is getting in). If you're looking for a more lowkey shopping spot, hit up the Cool Springs Galleria located about 20 minutes outside of the city.
The Nature
2016 Cherry Blossoms in bloom
Walking down the streets of Nashville during the spring means one thing: cherry blossoms. In 2008, the Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival Foundation created a decade long goal to plant 1000 cherry trees in the city, and that goal was met this year. Each April the city goes into full bloom and cherry blossoms can be found on almost every street. Probably not the ideal time to visit for someone with allergies, the blossoms not only fill the streets but the sweet aroma of the trees will definitely fill your senses.
- 13 Reasons to Visit Nashville (Besides the Music) | Brit + Co ›
- 5 Reasons To Visit Nashville Right Now – Forbes Travel Guide Stories ›
- 8 Reasons for Your Family to Visit Nashville ›
- 5 Reasons to Visit Nashville Now - This Life in Trips ›
- 10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Nashville ›
- Top 6 reasons to visit Nashville, Tennessee ›
- 22 Reasons You Should Visit Nashville Now | HuffPost ›
