5 Things To Do In Nashville

Country music’s not everyone’s cup of sweet tea. And while it would be hard to avoid that particular chicken pickin’ sound while in town (it’ll greet you at the airport for one thing), with a little planning, you can have a good time in Nashville without the country music that comes with it. With its award-winning chefs, art scene and gentrifying neighborhoods sprouting independent boutiques, craft breweries, and sophisticated nightspots, Nashville caters to even the most unflinching of country-cynics. And, if all else fails, there’s plenty of blues and bluegrass.

1. See some live music

Nashville is home to over 130 music venues, and with its reputation for hosting some of the best musicians in the world (coupled with a large demographic of music industry bods), it should come as no surprise that Music City’s live scene is as rip-roaring and diverse as a city three times its size. Rock, jazz, soul, hip hop, blues, indie and electronica are all on tap in Nashville and the city is firmly on the route of major bands touring the United States.  Lovers of rock and indie should check out The Basement, Exit/In, and sister venue The End. The Mercy Lounge is a central spot to catch large touring bands, while the Stone Fox and 3rd & Lindsley offer a more intimate setting and local talent.