Where is Nashville?
Nashville is the capital of Tennessee, located in the northern middle of the state between Memphis and Knoxville. As the capital city, it is also the most populous in the state with a population of nearly 2 million people.
The city is known for music, particularly country music and bluegrass. It is also home to several colleges and universities.
How to get to Nashville?
Most visitors to Nashville arrive by plane by flying into Nashville International Airport. However, the city is also conveniently located within driving distance of several major cities. Louisville, Kentucky is 176 miles to the north and Birmingham, Alabama is located 192 miles to the south.
Other major highways intersect near Nashville making it possible to travel to Chattanooga, Memphis, and Knoxville within a few hours. Tennessee shares borders with eight other states, making it easy to travel around the southeastern part of the country with ease.
When is the best time to visit Nashville?
Summer is a popular time for tourists but that’s also when the weather is at its hottest. July and August temperatures can reach up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity is also very high.
The best time to visit to avoid crowds and experience mild weather is in the spring and fall. During this time the days are relatively warm but nights become cool. However, it can rain during these transitional seasons, so be prepared and bring an umbrella or raincoat.
Anytime between March and May in the spring and October or November in the fall would be ideal. Room rates will be lower and the cities will not be as crowded.
What to do in Nashville?
Creativity is at the heart of Nashville which is often called by its nickname, Music City. From art and culture to music, sports, and more, there is so much to experience.
Music lovers in particular will enjoy the many attractions such as the Grand Ole Opry and the Music City Walk of Fame. You can even go on a Nashville Studio Tour to get a behind the scenes look at how music is made.
Those with more of an artistic inclination can enjoy the arts scene through galleries, public and street art, murals, and museums. The Nashville Children’s Theatre and Tennessee Performing Arts Center are particularly noteworthy.
Foodies will enjoy the chance to try Nashville’s version of barbecue or their famous hot chicken. There are also restaurants featuring Southern cuisine and plenty of opportunities to sit outside and dine al fresco in the temperate weather.
Is Nashville family-friendly?
Nashville is a great destination for a family vacation because there are many things for children to enjoy. Plenty of fun activities are also free so it’s affordable for families with multiple children.
You can easily spend a day at the Adventure Science Center where kids ages 3 and up can enjoy hands-on exhibits and have fun learning. The Nashville Children’s Theatre put on plays that kids can enjoy and tickets are reasonably priced.
When temperatures start to rise, head to the Nashville Shores Waterpark and Treetop Adventure Park at the Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort. Ride the lazy river or splash down slides to cool off or take to the trees to zip line, engage in obstacle courses, and traverse suspended bridges.
The Nashville Zoo is home to over 6,000 animals from nearly 350 species and lets children engage with the animals at feedings and petting opportunities. There is also a carousel, train, and playground.
