I Went To Nashville For The First Time and Here’s What I Did

Between working at Country 102.5 for about 18 months and being around country music for the duration of my time on this planet, people were shocked when I told them that I have never been to Nashville. However, an impromptu trip to Music City this week changed that. A few of my friends attend Belmont University in the heart of the city, so when I found out that one of them needed to come home and drive their new car back down to Tennessee, I jumped on the opportunity.

Since I had never been to Nashville, and only had a few days to take in as much as I could, I was excited and eager to check it out! If you're like me and never been to Nashville, or maybe you're looking to plan your next trip, hopefully this breakdown of my excursion to Music City will help you out!

The second my show ended last Sunday, I started headed to Nashville. You are going to think I'm crazy, but I tend to prefer driving to flying because you get to see first-hand what's outside of our New England bubble. But... we did it at night - a bad thing if you're wanting to see something that not in your headlights, but a good thing if you want to beat the traffic in the major cities. It took just over 15 hours, and it was very manageable with two drivers (and espresso shots).

After catching up on some much needed sleep, we headed down Music Row and Broadway. It was my first time going through the city, and I was truly amazed.

Of course on day one we had to partake in some Nashville Hot Chicken. We went to a place called Hattie B's, and it was awesome!

It's one of the highest points in the city, and it gives an outstanding view of the city skyline.

On our second day there, we set out on an adventure through the city on foot to see everything on my list.

Big Loud on Music Row

One of the record labels on the street.

Sign on Music Row

Bridgestone Arena

Home of the Nashville Predators (and many country concerts)!

The Ryman Auditorium

It was beyond cool to see this legendary venue in person. So many staples in country music have come through here.

Luke Bryan's Place

One of the many artist owned/inspired restaurants in Nashville.

Ole Red

Inspired by Blake!

John Rich's Bar

Nissan Stadium

Home of the Titans!

Crossing the Bridge

At the bottom of Broadway, you'll find a bridge open to foot traffic only that crosses the Cumberland River. On one side: Broadway. On the other: Nissan Stadium

Skyline from the Footbridge

Country Music Hall of Fame and Convention Center

About 45 minutes outside of Nashville, you'll find the Natchez Trace Parkway. It's a 444 mile long road that cuts right through parts of Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi.

We only had about two full days in Nashville, so I am very excited for a time when I can spend much longer there. There are plenty of sights that we just didn't have time to go check out, but that's a good excuse for going back!