After calling Nashville home for the past several years, I’ve discovered that Music City offers far more than honky-tonks and hot chicken.
Sure, those are incredible, but what really makes this city special are the experiences you literally can’t find anywhere else. From creating your own candy bar at America’s first combination candy company to visiting a full-scale Greek temple in the middle of Tennessee, Nashville constantly surprises me with its quirky charm.
On wavynashville.com, I guide you to these unforgettable adventures, so you can experience the unique things you can only do in Nashville for yourself. I’m sharing 15 unique things in Nashville that you won’t find in any other city.
15 Things To Do in Nashville: A Local Guide
Nashville isn’t just about music—it’s a city full of unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else. From hidden gems to one-of-a-kind adventures, these 15 activities let you discover the real soul of Music City.
1. Design Your Own Goo Goo Cluster at the Flagship Store
(Credit IG: visitmusiccity)
Walking into the Goo Goo Chocolate Co. downtown feels like stepping into Willy Wonka’s factory. I’ve made my custom Goo Goo Cluster here three times now, and it never gets old.
Using the digital kiosk, you select your chocolate type, choose between caramel or marshmallow nougat, pick your nuts (or go nut-free), and watch the chocolatiers handcraft your 4-ounce creation right in front of you.
The whole process takes about 15 minutes, and starting at $15, it’s a sweet Nashville tradition dating back to 1912.
The shop also offers chocolate-making classes where you can learn about the history of America’s first combination candy bar while sipping boozy milkshakes. This is genuinely one of the most unique things to do in Nashville Tennessee.
2. Attend a Show at the Grand Ole Opry
A female singer in a red dress performing at the Grand Ole Opry, a top choice for unique things you can only do in Nashville. (Credit IG: opry)
I’ll never forget my first time sitting in the Grand Ole Opry House. This isn’t just a concert venue—it’s the longest-running radio broadcast in the world, operating continuously since 1925.
Every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday night, the show features a rotating lineup of country music legends and rising stars performing live.
I’ve seen everything from surprise guest appearances by major artists to up-and-coming songwriters who gave me goosebumps.
The acoustics are incredible, and knowing that Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, and Patsy Cline stood on that same stage gives me chills every single time.
- Pro tip: head to Cock of the Walk in Music Valley before the show for some seriously underrated catfish.
3. Explore Nashville’s Full-Scale Parthenon
(Credit IG: grandoldhouses)
Yes, you read that right—Nashville has a complete replica of the Parthenon from Athens, Greece, and it’s absolutely mind-blowing.
Built for Tennessee’s 1897 Centennial Exposition, this architectural marvel sits in Centennial Park and houses a 42-foot statue of Athena that’s the tallest indoor sculpture in the Western world.
I bring out-of-town visitors here constantly because their reactions are priceless. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of 19th and 20th-century American art.
The park surrounding it is perfect for a morning walk, and if you’re a Swiftie, you can search for Taylor Swift’s bench while you’re there.
4. Record Your Own Song at a Professional Nashville Studio
(Credit IG: sundogstudionashville)
This is hands-down one of the most thinsg to do in Nashville for anyone who’s ever dreamed of being a recording artist.
At NashVox and similar studios around town, professional sound engineers help you record your own song, even if you can’t carry a tune in a bucket.
I watched my friend record a custom track for her sister’s wedding, and the engineers made her sound like a star. They offer everything from 2-hour songwriting sessions to group recording experiences.
It’s an unforgettable way to tap into Nashville’s music industry magic, and you walk away with a professional recording to share.
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5. Tour the Historic RCA Studio B
(Credit IG: brooke_stjames)
Walking through RCA Studio B is like time-traveling to the golden age of music. This legendary recording studio, built in 1957, is where Elvis Presley recorded over 200 songs, including “Are You Lonesome Tonight?”
The original Steinway piano he played is still there, and you can actually sit at it during the tour. I learned that Elvis insisted on recording with only red lights for atmosphere and often made his musicians work past midnight.
The studio helped create the famous “Nashville Sound” and put our city on the map as an international recording center. Tours run through the Country Music Hall of Fame, and they’re absolutely worth the ticket price.
6. Shop at Reese Witherspoon’s Flagship Draper James
Located in the trendy 12 South neighborhood, the flagship Draper James store is the only physical location for Reese Witherspoon’s Southern-inspired clothing line.
The moment I walked in, I was offered sweet tea (pre-pandemic, they’ve since adjusted this), and the entire space radiates Southern charm.
The bright, inviting atmosphere makes browsing a pleasure, even if you’re just window shopping. While the clothing tends to be pricey, they offer smaller accessories and gifts that make perfect Nashville souvenirs.
After visiting, I always walk down to the “I Believe in Nashville” mural nearby—it’s become one of the city’s most photographed spots.
7. Take a Behind-the-Scenes Honky Tonk Tour
(Credit IG: okczooamp)
I thought I knew Broadway until I took a private honky-tonk tour with a local musician.
These specialized tours take you behind the scenes of Nashville’s famous honky-tonks, where you’ll learn about the history of each venue, meet the musicians, and understand how the “four hours on, four hours off” rotation works.
I discovered that most of these talented performers play for tips only, and many have gone on to become famous songwriters.
The guides share insider stories about which artists got their start at which bars, and you’ll gain a whole new appreciation for Broadway’s neon-lit music scene.
8. Visit the Johnny Cash Museum
As someone who grew up listening to the Man in Black, walking through Johnny Cash museum was an emotional experience.
The Johnny Cash Museum holds the world’s largest collection of Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia, all housed in a building just off Broadway.
I spent over two hours here, reading handwritten letters, viewing stage costumes, and listening to rare recordings. The museum covers his entire life—from his childhood in Arkansas to his later years with June Carter Cash.
What makes this truly unique is the intimate, personal nature of the collection. You’re not just learning about a country music legend; you’re understanding the complex, fascinating person behind the music.
9. Experience the Ryman Auditorium’s Acoustics
(Credit IG: theryman)
Before the Grand Ole Opry moved to its current location, it called the Ryman Auditorium home for over 30 years.
This former church, built in 1892, has acoustics so perfect that musicians still fight to perform here. I’ve attended several shows at the Ryman, and the sound is unlike anything else—no amplification can match the natural resonance of this space.
During the day, you can take a self-guided tour where you’ll hear stories from artists like Trisha Yearwood and Nicole Kidman through audio panels.
The highlight? You can actually stand on the stage where legends performed. I got genuine goosebumps standing in that exact spot.
10. Create Custom Hatch Show Prints
Hatch Show Print has been creating iconic letterpress posters since 1879, and it’s the oldest operating letterpress in America.
Located inside the Country Music Hall of Fame, this working print shop lets you watch artists create posters the traditional way.
What makes this experience truly special is that you can design and print your own custom poster using their vintage letter blocks and presses.
I made one for my husband’s birthday featuring his favorite band, and it now hangs in our living room. The shop’s walls are covered with vintage prints advertising everything from circus acts to country music shows—it’s a visual feast for design nerds like me.
11. Hunt for Nashville’s Famous Murals
Nashville has become one of the most Instagrammed cities in America, largely thanks to our incredible street art scene. I’ve made it my personal mission to photograph as many murals as possible, and I’m still discovering new ones.
From the iconic “What Lifts You” wings in the Gulch to the “I Believe in Nashville” lettering in 12 South, these murals are scattered throughout every neighborhood.
My favorite is the “Dolly” mural in the Gulch—it’s a stunning tribute to our Tennessee treasure. The best part? Most murals are completely free to visit, and local artists are constantly adding new pieces. Just keep your eyes open as you explore different neighborhoods.
12. Tour Belle Meade Plantation and Winery
Belle Meade Historic Site offers something you can’t experience anywhere else—a combination of Civil War-era history, thoroughbred racing heritage, and modern winemaking.
This former plantation was home to one of America’s most successful horse breeding operations, producing Kentucky Derby winners.
I took the mansion tour and wine tasting combo, and learned fascinating details about the property’s complex history, including the stories of the enslaved people who lived and worked there.
The bourbon and wine tastings happen in the original carriage house, and the grounds are absolutely stunning. It’s a 20-minute drive from downtown but worth every minute.
13. Make Reservations at White Limozeen
Perched on the rooftop of The Graduate Hotel, White Limozeen is Nashville’s most Instagram-worthy restaurant—and I mean that in the best way possible. Inspired by Dolly Parton, this pink paradise serves food that actually matches its gorgeous aesthetic.
I’ve been here for both brunch and dinner, and my favorite dish is surprisingly the fries—they’re absolutely incredible.
The real magic happens at sunset when the entire rooftop glows pink and you can see the Nashville skyline. Make reservations well in advance, especially for weekends. If you can’t score a reservation, the patio seats are walk-in only, so show up early and be patient.
14. Explore the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
The Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park is completely different from any other Tennessee state park I’ve visited. Located directly across from the State Capitol Building, the 11-acre park features a .9-mile paved walking trail lined with information about important moments in Tennessee’s history.
I love bringing my coffee here on Saturday mornings and watching the fountains. The park includes a 200-foot granite map of Tennessee, a World War II Memorial, and a Wall of History with engravings marking significant dates.
It’s conveniently located next to the Nashville Farmers’ Market and Tennessee State Museum, so you can easily spend an entire morning in this area.
15. Take a Chocolate and Wine Pairing Class at Goo Goo
Beyond just making your own candy bar, Goo Goo Chocolate Co. offers a “Secrets of Goo Goo” experience that combines chocolate-making with wine and whiskey pairings.
I finally tried this class last month, and it exceeded my expectations. Our instructor walked us through the history of the 112-year-old company while we sampled different Goo Goo varieties paired with Tennessee wines and local whiskeys.
We also made brownies with peanut butter frosting and enjoyed boozy milkshakes that were dangerously delicious. The classes are held in their dedicated 500-square-foot classroom, and you leave with a much deeper appreciation for Nashville’s candy-making history.
Final Thoughts
These unique things to do in Nashville represent just a fraction of what makes Music City so special. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime resident like me, there’s always something new to discover.
The beauty of Nashville is that it honors its musical heritage while constantly evolving and surprising you with unexpected experiences.
From Greek temples to chocolate factories, from historic recording studios to pink rooftop bars, Nashville truly offers adventures you can’t find anywhere else.
Remember, the best way to experience these attractions is to embrace the local pace—take your time, chat with the staff and locals you meet, and let the city’s warm Southern hospitality work its magic on you. That’s the Nashville way, and it’s what keeps people coming back year after year.
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