While Nashville certainly deserves its Music City moniker, this capital and largest city of Tennessee offers a wealth of additional enticements which draw visitors from around the world. Its diverse economy is bolstered by headquarters and corporate operations for businesses in healthcare, consumer goods, manufacturing, technology and entertainment. Both business and leisure travelers will find plenty to occupy their leisure time, and the city’s culinary scene earns raves.

GETTING THERE & AROUND
Just 8 miles from downtown, Nashville International Airport supports a number of year-round and seasonal non-stop international flights as well as more than 100 non-stop domestic routes. Choose from taxis and rideshares, hotel shuttles and limos, WeGo public buses, and car rentals to reach the city. Explore downtown neighborhoods by trolley and BCycle bike-share (download the app) and on foot; rent a car, grab a bus or rideshare if you’re traveling further afield.

LODGING

Conrad Nashville
This property, opened in 2022, appeals to lovers of design, art and food. It boasts a regional art collection, three dining venues, an enviable wine cellar and five Wellness Rooms. Conveniently close to Vanderbilt University and Music Row, it also features a Recreation Deck, pool and cabanas.

The Nash
Located downtown just steps from Broadway, this boutique hotel’s eclectic, bold design combines with a warm welcome to provide a stylish retreat. Offering four food-and-drink options, including a rooftop bar with skyline views; seasonal outdoor pool; event space; a fitness center; and concierge service, The Nash promises an excellent stay for all travelers.

The Union Station Nashville Yards
This historical 125-room luxury hotel in the Autograph Collection resides in the circa 1900 central train station whose grand, 65-foot-high barrel-vaulted lobby features nightly entertainment and live local music. Amenities include on-site dining, The Whiskey Room, fitness room and elegant event space, all located in the heart of Nashville.

DINING
The Catbird Seat
Reservations are required at this culinary incubator, nationally recognized as a launching pad for celebrated chefs. The changing tasting menus feature up to 18 courses served at the U-shaped counter of this one-Michelin- starred open kitchen. Diners can opt to include a beverage pairing or order á la carte.

The Loveless Cafe
This 75-year-old Nashville institution serves up Southern comfort food (smoked country ham, fried green tomatoes, chicken and waffles) and is especially known for its biscuits. Expect warm, attentive service alongside scratch-made sides and can’t-miss desserts.

Peg Leg Porker
Featuring West Tennessee (read: Memphis) barbecue, this independent, family-owned restaurant offers smoked-fresh-daily meats from pitmaster/co-owner Carey Bringle along with house-made sides. Winning multiple awards for his dry-rub pork and chicken, Bringle sells his seasoning rubs and sauces for fans to take home.

ATTRACTIONS
Honky Tonk Highway
Located along Lower Broadway, the “highway” is a four-block stretch of bars and live music venues with no cover charge, buzzing with energy. Take a self-guided pub crawl; book a walking, trolley or party bus tour; or simply stroll the street and let the music draw you in.

National Museum of African American Music
Celebrating its fifth anniversary this year, NMAAM preserves and celebrates the many music genres created and inspired by African Americans. Experience them all through interactive technology and exhibits, educational programs, performances, and curated playlists.

Whiskey Trail Tours
Several tour operators offer tours (group, corporate and private) to distilleries both large (Jack Daniels) and small, with some expanding to include barbecue and beers in the mix. Explore several distilleries in Nashville or travel to Lynchburg, Shelbyville, Franklin and beyond.

AMERICA’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY
Several historical and cultural institutions in and around Nashville developed special exhibits and programs celebrating America’s past. Andrew Jackson’s home, The Hermitage, hosts a series of living history programs featuring important figures in our nation’s growth. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens presents America the Beautiful, “visiting” a series of national parks and landmarks by rail … model railroads, that is. Cheekwood also hosts An American Story: Paintings from the Parthenon’s Cowan Collection. All of the paintings, mostly landscapes, in this large collection are by American artists of the 19th and 20th centuries.