Nashville, Tennessee is a city that knows how to entertain. With its lively music scene, historic landmarks, local eats, and vibrant nightlife, there's never a dull moment. Whether you're a tourist visiting for the first time or a local looking to explore something new, this guide covers the best stuff to do in Nashville today—from daytime events to evening fun and everything in between.

Explore the Music Scene

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame

Start your day with a dive into Nashville's musical roots at the Country Music Hall of Fame . This museum is not just a tribute to the legends of country music but also a dynamic space with rotating exhibits, interactive experiences, and rare memorabilia. It's a must-see for music lovers and a fantastic way to understand the city's cultural identity.

Live Music on Broadway

No list of stuff to do in Nashville is complete without mentioning Broadway. This iconic street is packed with honky-tonk bars offering live music from early afternoon until the wee hours of the night. Stop by places like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, The Stage, or Robert’s Western World to experience Nashville’s up-and-coming talents and seasoned performers.

Enjoy Local Events and Festivals

Check Out Local Listings

Nashville’s calendar is always packed with events. Today, you might catch a pop-up artisan market, a community yoga class, or even a free outdoor concert in one of the city’s many parks or plazas. A quick check on websites like Visit Music City or Eventbrite can show you what’s happening within walking distance.

Centennial Park Performances

Centennial Park is more than just a beautiful green space—it often hosts performances, food truck rallies, and cultural festivals. Today’s lineup might include a local jazz trio or a Shakespeare in the Park performance, offering a relaxing but entertaining way to spend the afternoon.

Sample the Local Cuisine

Southern Brunch Spots

Looking for brunch? Nashville knows how to do it right. Head to places like Biscuit Love in The Gulch or The Pancake Pantry in Hillsboro Village. These spots serve up mouth-watering Southern staples like biscuits and gravy, chicken and waffles, and hotcakes that draw lines out the door.

Hot Chicken Challenge

If you’re feeling brave, take on Nashville’s famous hot chicken. Hattie B’s, Prince’s, and Party Fowl are just a few legendary spots to try. Choose your spice level wisely—“hot” in Nashville can mean seriously fiery.

Dive Into Art and Culture

Visit the Frist Art Museum

Located in a beautiful Art Deco building downtown, the Frist Art Museum is a top spot for art lovers. With rotating exhibits featuring everything from classical to contemporary works, there’s always something new to discover. The museum also hosts community art nights and interactive family activities.

Explore Street Murals

Another great piece of stuff to do in Nashville today is to go on a self-guided mural tour. The city is full of vibrant street art, with Instagram-famous pieces like the “What Lifts You” wings in The Gulch or the colorful walls of 12South offering perfect photo ops.

Get Active Outdoors

Walk or Bike the Greenways

For those wanting some fresh air, explore Nashville’s extensive greenway system. Trails like the Shelby Bottoms Greenway or the Cumberland River Greenway offer miles of scenic walking, jogging, or biking paths. Rent a bike through the city’s BCycle program and take in the city at your own pace.

Kayak on the Cumberland River

Feeling adventurous? Rent a kayak or paddleboard and cruise the Cumberland River for a unique view of downtown Nashville's skyline. Outfitters like Nashville Paddle Co. or River Queen Voyages offer rentals and guided tours.

Family-Friendly Activities

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

Perfect for families, the Nashville Zoo is home to hundreds of species from around the world. The kids will love the jungle gym, splash pads, and animal encounters. It's one of the best things to do with children in the city and makes for a fun and educational outing.

Adventure Science Center

Another excellent family stop is the Adventure Science Center , where kids (and adults) can enjoy hands-on exhibits related to space, biology, physics, and more. The planetarium shows are always a highlight.

Evening Entertainment and Nightlife

Dinner with a View

Before hitting the town, grab dinner at one of Nashville's rooftop restaurants. LA Jackson , Skull's Rainbow Room , or Bourbon Steak offer stunning views of the skyline along with top-notch menus.

Catch a Show at the Ryman Auditorium

Called the “Mother Church of Country Music,” the Ryman Auditorium is a legendary venue with incredible acoustics. Whether it's a big-name concert or a comedy show, catching a performance here is one of the most memorable things to do in Nashville.

Dance the Night Away

Nashville's nightlife is more than just country. Head to The 5 Spot in East Nashville for Motown Mondays or explore Basement East , which often features indie, rock, and alt shows. If you're in the mood for dancing, places like Play Dance Bar offer high-energy drag shows and DJ sets.

Hidden Gems to Discover Today

The Parthenon Replica

Located in Centennial Park, the full-scale replica of the Parthenon is one of the most unique attractions in the city. Inside, you'll find a towering statue of Athena and a fine art gallery.

Third Man Records

Founded by Jack White, Third Man Records is more than a record store. It's a vintage-style recording studio, concert venue, and vinyl pressing plant all rolled into one. Check it out today for limited edition releases and maybe even a surprise live session.

Nashville Farmers' Market

If you're visiting during the day, swing by the Nashville Farmers' Market . Located near Bicentennial Capitol Mall, this market features local produce, artisan crafts, global cuisine, and even a plant nursery. It's a great place to grab lunch or just stroll and sample.

Conclusion

There's no shortage of stuff to do in Nashville today. From soaking in live music on Broadway to trying spicy hot chicken, exploring museums, taking in skyline views, and uncovering cultural gems, Nashville offers a full-day itinerary with something for every taste. Whether you're chasing the beat of a new band, indulging in Southern comfort food, or simply enjoying the outdoors, Music City makes it easy to have a good time.