In my two previous "Favorite Nashville Things" posts I highlighted some of the lesser-known diversions I discovered in Nashville. However, there are many, many well-known attractions that should not be missed. I am listing some of them here with links to find out more. This is by no means a comprehensive list, just a collection of a few things I have enjoyed.
Downtown Nashville - This is where it's all happening. Perhaps best known for the strip of Broadway between 5th Avenue and the river where the honky-tonks and boot shops abound.
Tootsies, for example, is the much storied bar where country music legends partied before and after performances at the Ryman Auditorium (the original Grand Ole Opry). It is just one of many venues where the music never seems to stop.
The shopping is a bit touristy but, what the heck, I bought this for a special little someone who will be spending Christmas at the Mud House:
So much to do and see in downtown and you can find out all about it here.
Country Music Hall of Fame - Located in downtown Nashville click here for their website.
The Grand Ole Opry - No longer located in the famed Ryman Auditorium in downtown Nashville, but still the venue for all of the country music greats. Click here for more information.
Belle Meade Plantation - This may be my favorite place in Nashville. A truly beautiful old home with a remarkable history. It is well worth a tour to learn the history of the house and grounds. I especially enjoyed the authentic furnishings and lovely old carriages in the carriage house. However, the highlight of my entire visit was learning about this man, Bob Green.
For more information about Belle Meade Plantation and all who lived there, click here. As a bonus, the tour includes a wine tasting from the Belle Meade Winery. Read more about the winery here.
Loveless Cafe - This cafe has been serving authentic and delicious southern food since 1951. It is famous for their biscuits and peach jam. It is well worth the short and scenic trip down Tennessee Highway 100. More information here.
The Civil War in Tennessee
Although this trip focused on the fun and frivolous (and the food), no visit to the southern United States is complete without acknowledging the somber subject of the American Civil War. There are many historic sites in and around Nashville where battles were fought and many, many lives were lost. I visited the battleground of the 1864 Battle of Franklin and was struck by the solemnity and tragedy of the lives lost and families devastated. It is haunting to walk the land and to enter the buildings and homes that still stand. On my next visit, I plan to spend more time visiting these sites and to learn more about the history of Tennessee. Here are some helpful links:
http://www.bonps.org/tour/tour.htm
http://www.civilwar.org/battlefields/franklin.html
I have absolutely loved my time in Nashville and I hope you have enjoyed hearing about my stay. Thank you for joining me on my brief trip away from the Mud House! I am on my way back and I am looking forward to spending Christmas in our little adobe house with all those I love.
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