Nashville is synonymous with country music and this vibrant Tennessee city is bursting with life and attractions for avid fans of the genre. That said, there's more to see and do here than just exploring the country music scene, such as sampling the bustling nightlife of the city's bars and restaurants. You can also rent a car from Nashville International Airport and explore an array of nearby attractions, including the amazing Rock Island State Park.
One of the most famous attractions of the city, the Grand Ole Opry is a Nashville institution. What began as a weekly radio show in the 1920s quickly grew to become a live showcase of some of the biggest names in country music. Known as "country's most famous stage", the Grand Ole Opry entrances thousands of visitors each year and is an experience not to be missed.
Home to the Grand Ole Opry, but also hosting an array of other exciting events each year, Ryman Auditorium seats almost 2,400 guests and is a historic landmark in Nashville. Located on 5th Avenue N, the auditorium offers outstanding acoustics and is the premier venue for live music and concerts in the city.
No trip to Nashville would be complete without a visit to The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. It can be found on 5th Avenue S and is among the world's largest museums and research centers dedicated to American vernacular culture. Guided tours are available and guests can learn all about the many famous names inducted into the Hall of Fame, including Jimmie Rodgers, Hank Williams and many more.
Jump into your Nashville car rental and head just 30 minutes south to arrive at Franklin - location for one of the bloodiest encounters of the American Civil War. Founded in 1799 and named after Benjamin Franklin, the city's attractions include Carter House, the Lotz-House Museum, the SOAR Adventure Tower and much more for eager visitors to explore. Downtown is also lined with galleries and shops, with its striking architecture a highlight of any visit.
Head south out of Nashville on the I-24 E and US-231 S and you'll reach the historic city of Lynchburg, Tennessee in around an hour and a half. You can visit the famous Jack Daniels Distillery or enjoy a tipple at the Lynchburg Winery. There's also plenty to do for families, with the Lynchburg Cake & Candy Company a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth, while the Big Blue Chair is a popular place to take a cheeky selfie.
Around 85 miles east of Nashville is Rock Island State Park. You can be there in just over an hour and a half by car, with the 883-acre grounds offering some stunning scenery. Situated on the confluence of the Caney Fork, Collins and Rocky Rivers, the park is home to an array of wildlife, as well as offering amazing views of the Caney Fork Gorge below Great Falls Dam. It's filled with cascading waterfalls and verdant green spaces for visitors to enjoy.
Given the sunny, Tennessee climate, a convertible is an excellent choice when renting a car in Nashville.
Nashville International Airport
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July, with 279 hours on average.
May, with 140 mm on average.
CMA Fest/Awards, Let Freedom Sing! Music City July 4th, Tomato Art Fest