places to visit in nashville for free

Free Things To Do in Nashville

Experience Nashville on a budget with free things to do around the city.

Art | Attractions | Kid-Friendly Activities | Music | Parks

You already know we’re home to free music 365 days a year, but music isn’t the only free attraction in Nashville. Read on to find out which parks, attractions, and venues are free to visit in Music City.

Nashville is nicknamed Music City for good reason. It’s home to historic venues, a major arena, and numerous music artists and industry professionals. If you want to hear live music in Nashville, just pick where to go! Our Guide to Free Live Music in Nashville can help you plan the perfect visit.

Pro Tip: Most places don’t charge a cover fee, but remember to tip the band!

If you want free things to do in Nashville for families, visit one of the city’s many parks . Enjoy hiking, fishing, picnicking, and more. Use the interactive Parks Finder from Metro Parks Nashville to search for parks by activity, location, or name.

• Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park Tour Tennessee via a 200-foot granite map of the state, a walkway featuring the state’s 95 counties, 31 fountains representing the major rivers of Tennessee, and an extraordinary wall depicting the state’s history.
• Music City Walk of Fame Park The Music City Walk of Fame Park on Nashville's Music Mile is a landmark tribute to those with a connection to Music City from all genres of music who have contributed to the world through song or other industry collaboration and made a significant contribution to the music industry.
• Centennial Park Centennial Park is Nashville's premier park. Located at West End and 25th Avenue North, the 132-acre park features the iconic Parthenon , a 1-mile walking trail, Lake Watauga, the Centennial Art Center, historical monuments, an arts activity center, a beautiful sunken garden, a bandshell, an events shelter, sand volleyball courts, a dog park, and an exercise trail.

For a city known for music, Nashville has many art galleries, art studios, and museums. Take a break from the sounds of Music City and absorb the culture of Nashville’s Art Scene .

• The Bankers Alley Hotel The Bankers Alley Hotel Nashville is an art-filled hotel in the bustle of downtown that has re-imagined a historic building to showcase more than 10,500 square feet of exhibition space. Galleries are open free to the public every day of the year with rotating exhibitions. Free guided docent tours are offered on Thursday evenings at 5:30pm.
• First Saturday Art Crawl Every first Saturday of the month, art galleries open their doors from 6-9pm for special events and exhibit openings. Admission is free, and most galleries offer free wine and refreshments.
• Hatch Show Print One of the oldest working letterpress print shops in America, Hatch Show Print is open to art lovers, music lovers, collectors, and everyone in between. Step inside the print shop and see how these legendary posters are made. Shop for prints and posters in the print store or peruse Hatch Show Print’s Haley Gallery of historic ad blocks and artwork. Part of the Total Access Pass .
• Nashville's Murals Looking for a fun and unique photo opportunity? Discover the impressive murals that can be found throughout Nashville. Created by local and internationally known artists, murals can be seen on the side of restaurants, shops, garage doors, water tanks, and even old silos.
• Nashville Shakespeare Festival — Shakespeare in the Park For 30 years, the Nashville Shakespeare Festival has educated and entertained. During the summer months, the Nashville Shakes offer free performances (with a suggested $10 donation) in Centennial Park Thursday through Sunday and Labor Day Monday.
• Vanderbilt Fine Arts Gallery The Vanderbilt Fine Arts Gallery hosts rotating exhibits throughout the year. The hours are 11am-4pm Monday-Friday, and 1-5pm Saturday-Sunday. The gallery will close for breaks and installations during the academic year. Please call ahead to verify the schedule at 615-322-0605.
• WeHo Art Crawl On the first Saturday of the month, join art lovers in visiting a dozen Art Galleries within walking distance in Nashville's Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood. Admission is free and open to the public.
• Zeitgeist Gallery Zeitgeist Gallery, located in Wedgewood-Houston spotlights both local and regional artists. It is a contemporary art gallery with rotating exhibits that provide viewers with an enriching in-depth look into art, artists, and the creative process.

Interesting landmarks, educational museums , and free attractions abound in Nashville. Take a guided tour , enjoy free offers, and learn more about the city’s history at these unique places.

• Arrington Vineyards Visiting Tennessee’s premier vineyard is free. Bring a picnic lunch or enjoy dinner year-round. On Saturdays and Sundays, April through October, Arrington Vineyards hosts Music in the Vines. Each concert is free and the perfect opportunity to taste amazing wine.
• Cooter's Place "Cooter," Ben Jones himself, operates this "Dukes of Hazzard" museum that features pictures; props; costumes; memorabilia; and classic Dukes cars, including Cooter's two trucks, Daisy's Jeep, Rosco's Patrol Car, and a General Lee. Admission is always free.
• Nashville Flea Market On the fourth weekend of each month, the Tennessee State Fairgrounds hosts the Nashville Flea Market, where dealers and vendors from 30 states offer their wares to the buying public. Visitors will find a variety of gifts, antiques, collectibles, jewelry, arts and crafts, tools, housewares, handmade clothing, and more.
• Downtown Presbyterian Church This Presbyterian Church is a national landmark. Guests in Nashville have marveled over its Egyptian revival interior and the organ. Tours are available Tuesday and Thursday at 2pm. Reservations are required.
• Fort Donelson National Battlefield Discover the history behind Fort Donelson and the Union victory, which elated the North and stunned the South during the American Civil War. Within days of the Confederate surrender at Fort Donelson, Clarksville, and Nashville would fall into Union hands. General Ulysses S. Grant and his troops created a pathway to victory for the Union after this great victory.
• Fort Nashborough Interpretive Center Nashville was founded when James Robertson led his group of pioneers across the frozen Cumberland River to a place called The Cedar Bluffs. It was here that these men built a fort called Nashborough, which would be the shelter for the first families of the city. Today, a replica of the fort is located at the end of Lower Broadway and is open for self-guided tours. The site also holds a Native American Plaza that honors the tribes and people that populated the area before the arrival of James Robertson.
• Fort Negley Explore the largest inland masonry fort built during the Civil War. Fort Negley offers interactive exhibits and two 20-minute educational videos on the 1862 surrender of Nashville and the building of the fort. Self-guided walking tours are available year-round from dawn until dusk.
• Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center Take a walk around the resort's nine acres, complete with indoor gardens, pathways, and waterfalls, any day of the week.
• Isha Institute of Inner-sciences One day each month, the Isha Institute of Inner-sciences offers a Free Yoga Day. The Institute also offers lessons on vegetarian cooking and other classes. Day visits are free of charge.
• Nashville Public Library The Nashville Public Library offers free year-round fun, events, and classes, including weekly Story Time , puppet shows, music in the courtyard, book clubs, craft days, and more.
• Tennessee Agricultural Museum The Tennessee Agricultural Museum features an extensive collection of home and farm artifacts from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Also included on the property is a log cabin community with a wooded trail and heirloom gardens.
• Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, located at Bridgestone Arena, honors the athletes, coaches, sportswriters, and sports administrators who have made an impact on the history of sports in Tennessee.
• Tennessee State Capitol The Tennessee State Capitol is one of the oldest operating capitols in the country. Guided tours of the Capitol are provided free of charge by the staff of the Tennessee State Museum.
• Tennessee State Museum From Tennessee's early beginnings to the present day, the Tennessee State Museum tells the entire story of Tennessee's rich history, including Music City. Free highlight tours are offered daily at 2pm.

Nashville is family-friendly , and many museums, attractions, and destinations in the city offer free admission for kids of certain ages. No matter what your family likes doing together, there are plenty of kid-friendly activities in Nashville to enjoy.

• Adventure Science Center Free for Toddlers Under 2 From the biggest celestial bodies to the tiniest molecules on Earth, Adventure Science Center showcases innovative, dynamic learning experiences that open minds of all ages to the wonders of science and technology. Part of the Total Access Pass .
• Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery Free for Ages 5 and Under The Belle Meade Plantation is a 30-acre historic site 6 miles west of Nashville where guests can enjoy history, horses, and hospitality. The mansion, built in 1853, is the estate’s centerpiece. The plantation grounds feature an art gallery; guided tours; and rotating Living History activities, such as storytelling, period dance, and demonstrations. Part of the Total Access Pass .
• Belmont Mansion Free for Ages 5 and Under Completed in 1853 by Adelicia Acklen, Belmont was recognized as one of the most elaborate and unusual homes in the South. Adelicia secretly conspired with both the Confederate and Union forces to emerge from the Civil War with her fortune intact. Part of the Total Access Pass.
• Carnton Free for Ages 5 and Under Carnton, home of Carrie and John McGavock, served as the largest Confederate field hospital following the Battle of Franklin, fought in 1864. The McGavock Confederate Cemetery is on the site, as well as a fully restored garden and slave quarters.
• Cheekwood Estate & Gardens Free for Ages 2 and Under Experience Cheekwood, the 55-acre estate built by the Maxwell House Coffee fortune in Nashville, Tennessee, and one of the finest examples of an American Country Place Era estate in the United States. The Botanical Garden is a spectacular showcase of color and horticultural diversity with 11 specialty display gardens and a stunning natural landscape. Part of the Total Access Pass.
• Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Free for Ages 5 and Under The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville is home to priceless artifacts, photographs, recorded sound clips, dynamic exhibitions, Nashville’s legendary recording studio, and more. Its permanent exhibition, “Sing Me Back Home: A Journey Through Country Music,” reveals the origins, traditions, and honored architects of the country music genre. Part of the Total Access Pass.
• Frist Art Museum Free for Ages 18 and Under The Frist Art Museum presents rotating exhibitions throughout the year. The award-winning Martin ArtQuest Gallery hosts events, such as Free Family Days and Family Mondays, for kids to discover, explore, and create art. The Frist is always free for ages 18 and younger. Part of the Total Access Pass.
• Historic Travellers Rest Free for Ages 5 and Under Historic Travellers Rest is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the Overton home and serving as a gateway for learners of all ages to explore and experience Nashville's historic past. Built by Judge John Overton in 1799, Travellers Rest is the oldest historic home in Nashville open to the public.
• Lane Motor Museum Free for Ages 5 and Under Lane Motor Museum is home to the largest European automobile collection in the United States and features 150 extraordinary cars and motorcycles from around the world. Visitors will discover oddities like propeller-driven vehicles, microcars, amphibious vehicles, one-of-a-kind prototypes, military vehicles, competition cars, and more.
• Lotz House Museum Free for Children 6 and Under In 1855, German immigrant Johann Lotz built Lotz House, using it as a showroom to sell his carpentry work. In 1864, Lotz House was at the epicenter of the Battle of Franklin and still bears several battle wounds.
• Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum Free for Ages 5 and Under The Musicians Hall of Fame honors musicians from all genres who have played on thousands of iconic recordings, and the Museum exhibits take visitors on a tour of cities that greatly influenced music culture. Part of the Total Access Pass.
• Nashville Zoo Free for Ages 2 and Under See animals from around the world, including spider monkeys, a white rhinoceros, a Masai giraffe, clouded leopards, and much more at the Nashville Zoo, ranked in the top 10 best zoos and aquariums by Charity Navigator. Part of the Total Access Pass.
• National Corvette Museum Free for Ages 4 and Under The National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky, showcases America's sports car. The museum features more than 70 Corvettes displayed in period settings, including at a mid-century barbershop, a service station, and a historic racetrack.
• Storytellers Hideaway Farm & Museum Free for Ages 10 and Under Storytellers Hideaway Farm & Museum brings to life the history of the property, which was once owned by Johnny Cash. Tours allow you to see the Little Stage, which once hosted "Saturday Night in Hickman County"; view memorabilia from the Man in Black; learn about the house, which was built before the Civil War; and more.
• Wave Country Free for Ages 2 and Under Dive into this wave action, freshwater pool, and water slide complex. Packing your own picnic is acceptable. Floats are available to rent, and there's plenty of shade.

Nashville has so much to do, and many attractions are free! Enhance your Nashville experience and save on places where admission is charged with a  Total Access Pass . The Total Access Pass is Nashville’s official combo ticket that lets you create your own experience at a discount. Enjoy the freedom — and the savings — of writing your own ticket to entertainment.

Call 800-657-6910 to purchase a Total Access Pass through Nashville Customer Services or buy online .

• Save BIG on Nashville attractions and tours with the Music City Total Access Pass.
• Do more for less with these special offers, discount tickets, package deals, and giveaways.

Get weekly news and exclusive discounts right in your inbox.

THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Nashville

Best free things to do in nashville.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Downtown Nashville
• Green Hills
• Bellmont/Hillsboro
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Ole Smoky Distillery & Yee-Haw Brewery

2. Gaylord Opryland Garden Conservatory

3. Downtown Nashville

4. Tennessee State Museum

5. Radnor Lake State Park

6. Tennessee Legend Distillery

7. Centennial Park

8. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

9. The District

10. Opry Mills

11. John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

12. Cooter’s Museum and Store Nashville

13. Edwin and Percy Warner Parks

14. Vanderbilt University

15. Music City Center

16. Music Row

17. Natchez Trace Parkway

18. Nashville Public Library

19. Tennessee Brew Works

20. Nashville Farmers' Market

21. Cumberland River Pedestrian Bridge

22. Diskin Cider

23. Marathon Village

24. Tennessee State Capitol

25. Shelby Bottoms Greenway

26. Riverfront Park

27. Big Machine Brewery & Distillery

28. Nashville Flea Market

29. Printer's Alley

30. What Lifts You Mural

What travelers are saying

Nashville   Travel Guide

Courtesy of SeanPavonePhoto | Getty Images

Free Things To Do in Nashville

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Broadway Broadway free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Bar hop among the different Broadway bars to hear some of the most talented singers in the city. Bring some cash to tip the musicians and request your favorite country songs. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

While many people visit Nashville to soak up the history of country music at the city's museums (like the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum ), others prefer enjoying the tunes in person. The best way to do that is to visit Broadway, downtown Nashville's main thoroughfare. Lower Broadway is nicknamed the "Honky Tonk Highway" because of the numerous spots that host live acts daily. What's more, there's no cover charge to the establishments, so you can bar hop as you please.

Centennial Park Centennial Park free

Encompassing the site of the 1897 Tennessee Centennial Exposition, 132-acre Centennial Park boasts an art center, a lake, a walking trail, a band shell, volleyball courts, a dog park and various historical monuments. It's also home to the Parthenon as well as the Centennial Sportsplex, a facility for swimming, tennis and year-round ice skating. The park hosts numerous festivals as well as free concerts on Saturdays in spring and fall.

Reviewers frequently say that this peaceful, well-maintained greenspace is a lovely place to take a walk. Many say the Parthenon is the must-see attraction here.

Fifth + Broadway Fifth + Broadway free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Prolific restaurateur Sam Fox debuted a multistory restaurant concept that connects to Fifth + Broadway. Keep your eyes peeled for a hidden door on the street level that leads to an underground margarita bar, Pushing Daisies. – Kellie Walton

Broadway is one of Nashville’s top destinations, made even more desirable through the addition of the city’s largest mixed-use development, Fifth + Broadway. From retail shops to restaurants and residential space, Fifth and Broadway offers a plethora of options adjacent to Music City’s famed honky-tonk bars. Stroll the outdoor plaza to shop at retailers like Apple, Tecovas, Free People, and locally-loved boutiques like REVV and The Nash Collection, then stop for a pick-me-up at Elixr Coffee Roasters or Jeni’s for a sweet treat. 

Radnor Lake State Park Radnor Lake State Park free

Though Nashville is a bustling metropolis, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors right on the outskirts of town. Located less than 15 miles south of downtown, Radnor Lake State Park is a calm and serene getaway for those looking to go for a walk and observe nature. The 1,368-acre park features a variety of plants and animals, including owls, waterfowl and herons. Plus, there are numerous jogging, hiking and biking trails in the park, many of which provide impressive lake views. If you're looking to learn more about local birds in the area, check out the Barbara J. Mapp Aviary Education Center for interactive displays, ranger-led programs and panoramic views of the surrounding hillside.

Parkgoers say they loved going on peaceful walks in this park and were astonished at the amount of wildlife they saw. Some people advise getting there early to get parking if you drive.

John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Grab your camera (or phone) and walk this picturesque bridge, stopping midway for a fantastic selfie with the Nashville skyline. If it looks familiar, it's likely because many music videos have utilized the vantage point from this spot. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Formerly called the Shelby Street Pedestrian Bridge (and before that, the Sparkman Street Bridge), the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge – which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places – was built from 1907 through 1909. It was constructed to connect downtown Nashville to the suburbs of East Nashville. Designed by Howard M. Jones, the chief office engineer of the Nashville, Chattanooga, and St. Louis Railway, the bridge contains 48 spans, including four steel trusses and two reinforced concrete trusses. They're the only concrete trusses to be known of in Tennessee. In 1998, the city stopped allowing vehicles on the bridge due to its poor condition, and in 2003 it was restored and became a pedestrian-only walkway. There is also 15-foot-wide central bike lane in the middle of the bridge. Pedestrians can stop and relax at one of four overlooks along the bridge, which offer panoramic views of Nashville to the north and south. 

Music Row Music Row free

With record companies, recording studios, music publishers and related organizations as well as the Historic RCA Studio B , Music Row stands as the center of Nashville's storied music industry. In addition to the sites where musical history was made, this area southwest of downtown also has plenty of eateries and shops.

Music Row may not be as flashy or brassy as Broadway , but the area is a must-see destination for music lovers. Because the neighborhood is comparatively nondescript, many travelers recommend taking a guided tour to learn the history of the area. Several of the best tours in Nashville visit Music Row.

Best Nashville Tours

Nashville Tours

The 15 Best Nashville Tours of 2024: Music, Food & More

March 26, 2024

Photo Tour: The Hermitage Hotel in Nashville

May 15, 2023

Photo Tour: The Kimpton Aertson Hotel in Nashville

May 12, 2023

Tennessee State Museum Tennessee State Museum free

Located in downtown Nashville next to the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park and the Nashville Farmers' Market, the Tennessee State Museum preserves the unique and storied history of the Volunteer State. The large museum showcases permanent exhibits that display the heritage of Tennessee's natural history; Native American history; military and sporting history; and Civil War history. Plus, there are rotating temporary cultural and art exhibits on display as well. Several attractions at this museum specifically cater to children. The museum's Children's Gallery is specifically geared toward kids aged 3 to 8. In addition, the museum hosts many events and educational programs on-site throughout the year.

Museumgoers say the exhibits are well organized and highly informative. Many also appreciate the free admission.

Shelby Bottoms Nature Center & Greenway Shelby Bottoms Nature Center & Greenway free

Located on an expansive stretch of the Cumberland River about 5 miles east of downtown Nashville, the Shelby Bottoms Nature Center & Greenway is a sprawling green space where visitors can learn about the local landscape and take advantage of outdoor recreation opportunities. When you visit, start at the nature center, where you can view cultural history exhibits and artwork. You can also rent a bicycle from the on-site BCycle station to explore or participate in an environmental education program and learn about things to do on the greenway. The 950-acre Shelby Bottoms Greenway has about 17 miles of unpaved and paved pathways (perfect for strolling and biking) that pass through wetlands, streams, forests and fields.

Parkgoers say the atmosphere is relaxing and quiet; the trail system is easy to follow and clean. Many say cycling is quite fun here. Indeed, Shelby forms part of the 26-mile Music City Bikeway that connects Percy Priest Dam and the Warner Parks. Visitors also report glimpsing deer and other wildlife here.

Things to Do in Nashville FAQs

Explore more of nashville.

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

15 Best Free Things to Do in Nashville, TN

Written by Catherine Hawkins Updated May 11, 2023

Nashville has things to do that are not just low-budget but absolutely free. Discover how easy it is to attend events, see the sights, and sample the good life in Music City without walloping your wallet.

Attend a free concert, courtesy of the music department at Vanderbilt University. Attend free practice sessions of the Tennessee Titans NFL team. Become a living work of art when photographed with the wings of Kelsey Montague's 23-foot-tall mural What Lifts You .

Fortunately, many free activities can be grouped together. One cluster is the Tennessee State Capitol, Bicentennial Mall, farmers market, and Tennessee State Museum. Combine the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge with The District, Downtown, and Music City Walk of Fame.

You might be surprised to discover that best and free may be one and the same when you check out our list of the best free things to do in Nashville.

1. Go Sightseeing Downtown

2. marvel at the tropical plants at gaylord opryland resort gardens, 3. see the parthenon at centennial park, 4. behold the views from john seigenthaler pedestrian bridge, 5. catch a ranger program at radnor lake state park, 6. explore the district, 7. tour the tennessee state capitol & wander bicentennial capitol mall state park, 8. take a hike in warner parks, 9. go east or west from cumberland river pedestrian bridge, 10. drive or stroll along music row, 11. tour the time tunnel at tennessee state museum, 12. go people watching at nashville farmers' market, 13. join a live radio audience at ernest tubb midnight jamboree, 14. make the scene at the bluebird café, 15. catch free concerts at live on the green and symphony under the stars, map of free things to do in nashville, tn.

Downtown Nashville is a compact core to explore with no end of eateries to keep you in fuel, including free samples from Savannah's Candy Kitchen. Downtown is where you'll find fellow tourists. You can do a lot of wandering and people-watching, and it doesn't cost a thing.

On the main thoroughfare of Broadway, watch for notable places to visit and beautiful eye-catching architecture. At 701 Broadway, you'll see a prominent building with a clock tower. This fine example of Victorian Gothic architecture is the former Customs House, which dates back to the 1870s. It earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.

Frist Art Museum—an attraction that is free to visitors age 18 and under—is located at 919 Broadway. It occasionally offers free admission days for everyone, organized through partnerships with sponsors and in conjunction with special exhibitions.

Music City Center is the massive curved-roof building on Demonbreun. The 2.1-million-square-foot convention center is home to more than 100 pieces of public art.

Another fun free thing to do in Downtown Nashville is stop by the Gibson Garage. The guitar store has museum-like exhibitions of historic instruments, music-inspired artwork, and 200 guitars floating on a spinner above the retail area.

Gaylord Opryland Resort Gardens is a botanical bonanza of 50,000 tropical plants spread over nine acres of indoor gardens. Rain or shine, buoy your spirits with floral splendor, including rare and exotic specimens. Even if you're not a gardener, you will be impressed by the blooms. A staff of 20 horticulturalists takes care of this magnificent collection.

Ten thousand plants, including palm trees 60 feet high, thrive in the Garden Conservatory. Cascades Atrium sourced most of its 8,200 plants, including a 40-foot palm, from Florida. The entrance to the Delta Atrium is graced by two equally tall southern magnolias.

Adding to the Southern feel of this garden, notice the Spanish moss draping from some of the trees. There are 1,500 plants, including 30 varieties of camellias, in the steamy fragrant Delta.

Don't miss the mesmerizing fountain and atrium show. The dancing water streams are perfectly choreographed with accompanying music and lights.

Address: 2800 Opryland Drive, Nashville, Tennessee

You could spend a day doing free things at the 132-acre Centennial Park . See the iconic Parthenon of Nashville, which was built in 1897 for the Tennessee Centennial Exposition. It's a replica of the original in Athens completed in 438 BCE. There's also a one-mile walking trail, sand volleyball courts, an exercise trail, and a park for your pooch.

During the summer, swim and enjoy water sports on Lake Watauga. Explore the sunken garden. Admire the monuments.

Centennial Park is the setting for If Trees Could Sing , an installation by the Nature Conservancy, Nashville Parks, and Nashville musicians. Use your smartphone to view 18 web videos of artists talking and singing about trees. The exhibit prompts you to think about what's special about trees and how to care for them. There's no charge to listen and learn.

Address: 2500 West End Avenue, Nashville, Tennessee

The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge spans 3,150 feet, making it one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world. The bridge connects the historic district and Riverside Park with East Bank Greenway and the hip residential area of East Nashville. Featuring 48 spans, four steel trusses, and two reinforced concrete trusses, it was closed to vehicle traffic in 1998—the same year it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Once known as Sparkman Street Bridge and Shelby Street Bridge, it was renamed in 2014 to honor Tennessee journalist and civil rights activist John Seigenthaler. Built between 1907 and 1909, the bridge was updated to include an elevator, ramps, stairways, and a 15-foot center lane for cycling, flanked by 10-foot sidewalks. Four overlooks deliver impressive views of the Cumberland River and Nashville skyline.

Park at Lot R, Nissan Stadium (on the north side of the Cumberland) to walk across the bridge.

Address: 408 S 1st Street, Nashville, Tennessee

Radnor Lake State Park is a 1,368-acre day-use park that is perfect for hiking, nature study, photography, bird-watching, and observing wildlife. In addition to nearly eight miles of trails, there's an aviary for birds.

Birds (such as owls, herons, and waterfowl) and animals (including mink and otter) are more frequently seen here because joggers, cyclists, and dog walkers are restricted to the Otter Creek Road trail. Watch for frogs and reptiles that blend into the natural environment to avoid detection.

Free programs are led by rangers on topics such as birds of prey, wildflowers, snakes, and astronomy. Rangers also lead activities such as canoe floats. The visitor center is open from Thursday to Monday; it's closed on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Address: 1160 Otter Creek Road, Nashville, Tennessee

Abutting downtown, alongside the Cumberland River, is The District —an area that comprises three important historic areas. It includes the entertainment districts of Printer's Alley and 2nd Avenue North (being restored after the Christmas Day 2020 explosion), along with Broadway. More than a century ago, Printer's Alley—now a dynamic area of restaurants and entertainment venues—was once home to 13 publishers and 10 printers.

Off or close to Broadway, discover many famous Nashville attractions . Begin at Riverside Park and go south along the first few blocks of Broadway. This is Honky Tonk Row . Just off Broadway and Fourth Avenue North, walk past the Ryman Auditorium , which was the original home of the Grand Ole Opry.

In the other direction, look for your favorite crooners on the Music City Walk of Fame Park (with stars in the sidewalk) opposite the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum . (While not typically a free thing to do in Nashville, the Country Music Hall of Fame offers complimentary admission to youth, along with two accompanying adults, from seven Tennessee counties through the Community Counts program.)

Riverfront Park, beside the Cumberland River, is part of the District. On July 4 th , enjoy free fireworks choreographed by the Nashville Symphony, winner of a Grammy award. At Riverfront Park, you can visit the Ascend Amphitheater, which has capacity for nearly 7,000 people. Another free attraction to explore is a replica of Fort Nashborough (the first shelter built in Nashville) and the adjacent interpretive center.

Take a self-guided or free guided tour of the Tennessee State Capitol , a commanding Greek Revival building erected on a hill above the city. This majestic monument, completed in 1859, houses the governor's office and state government. Below it to the north, is Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park . The 11-acre grounds are a showplace that honor the people who created and served Tennessee throughout its history.

A 200-foot granite version of the state map, the Pathway of History, and Walkway of Counties provide lessons in geography, history, and botany. There's a memorial to World War II veterans, a 95-bell carillon, and fountains that celebrate the rivers of Tennessee. Soak up the grandeur of this state monument, which you can explore at no charge.

Address: 600 James Robertson Parkway, Nashville, Tennessee

Edwin and Percy Warner Parks (aka the Warner Parks) attract nearly one million visitors annually to walk the trails, go mountain biking, escort the family mutt to the dog park, enjoy a picnic, and visit the Nature Center.

If you're up for a day of outdoor recreation that doesn't cost anything, head for Warner Parks—more than 3,100 acres of meadows and forest—listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Located nine miles from Nashville, Warner Parks is one of the largest urban parks in Tennessee. One of the simple things you can enjoy here is watching the variety of visitors to the bird feeders.

Address: Warner Parks Nature Center, 7311 Hwy 100, Nashville, Tennessee

The 745-foot Cumberland River Pedestrian Bridge connects Shelby Bottoms and Park to Two Rivers Park. It's the puzzle piece in the Nashville parks system linking almost 22 miles of biking and hiking trails.

Go west on the bridge to the 1,150-acre greenway to explore wetlands, play ball, and visit the nature center, which offers free public nature and environmental education programs. Go east through a tunnel and walkway to 384-acre Two Rivers Park to play. The golf course and water park charge admission, but you can hang out at the skate park and play disc golf for free.

Address: 2300 Two Rivers Parkway, Nashville, Tennessee

Music Row is the heartland of Nashville's music industry, comprised of recording studios, radio stations, and record companies. RCA Studio B , on the National Register of Historic Places, is famous for recording Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson, and Dolly Parton.

At Columbia's Quonset Hut , established in 1954 by producer Owen Bradley and his musician brother Harold, Patsy Cline became famous for Crazy in 1961, and Bobby Vinton crooned Blue Velvet in 1963. BMI (Broadcast Music Inc) handles licensing and rights to more than 20 million compositions. Curb Records is another fixture.

In Owen Bradley Park , you'll find a bronze statue of the legendary music producer playing a grand piano. The bronze bench is the perfect place to stage a selfie with this titan of country music and rockabilly.

Musica , another notable bronze statue, is at the roundabout. Nine nude oversized figures celebrate the interplay between dance and music.

Address: 16th and 17th Ave. S., aka Music Square East and West, Nashville, Tennessee

The story of Tennessee's history is brought to life through the "time tunnel" at Tennessee State Museum. Starting with the geological time before people to First Peoples and the arrival of Europeans, the timeline moves into statehood, the Civil War, and reconstruction. Ending with the state's contributions to the nation and beyond, this is a story that covers about 13,000 years.

Tour the permanent collection that contributes to the time tunnel. Visit the rotating galleries and the interactive exhibit for children three to eight years of age. See an impressive array of artifacts related to the Civil War. All of this and more await you at no charge.

If you're interested in farming, there's another free museum you can visit in Nashville—the Tennessee Agricultural Museum. This museum features more than 3,000 artifacts from the era before electricity, a garden of heirloom plants, and historic cabins. Admission is free, Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm.

Address: 1000 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., Nashville, Tennessee

There's no charge for people watching at Nashville Farmers' Market , open year-round. Located near Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park and the Tennessee State Museum, the market has three components. Around 150 farmers and vendors at two "sheds" sell everything from Tennessee apples and Alabama oranges to artisan soap and honey—no charge for looking, chatting, and whatever free samples you can score. The well-stocked garden center covers 18,000 square feet.

Events, such as chef demonstrations, are free. Market House, which sells international good eats (from curry to pizza and crepes) and Gardens of Babylon are open daily, from approximately 8am to 6pm. Farm sheds are open Saturday to Sunday from December through April, and Friday to Sunday from May through November.

Address: 900 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., Nashville, Tennessee

Ernest Tubb, aka the Texas Troubadour, opened his record shop on Honky Tonk Row in 1947. A mentor to up-and-coming country musicians, Tubb created a star-dusted path to stardom with a radio show called the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree. Performers would run off the Grand Ole Opry stage at nearby Ryman Auditorium and record their songs for live radio.

Midnight Jamboree is famous for being the second longest-running radio show in the country. Claim a seat in the audience if you happen to be in Nashville on a Tuesday night. The live show is broadcast on Saturday night (technically Sunday morning at midnight) on AM 650 WSM–radio, home of the Grand Ole Opry. Show up and have fun; no charge!

It's worth noting that the historic record shop was sold in 2020 and again in 2022 and is now undergoing renovations.

Address: 417 Broadway, Nashville, Tennessee

The bluebird is a symbol of happiness and a fitting name for an unassuming café in a strip mall. This is where musicians play in the hope of getting known. It happened here for Taylor Swift, Garth Brooks, and Keith Urban. Established in 1982, the 90-seat Bluebird Café is a direct route to happiness for would-be musicians who make it, and lucky folks in their audience.

While some shows charge admission and require an advanced ticket purchase, others (like open mic nights) are free. Get there early for your best shot at getting one of the coveted seats.

Address: 4104 Hillsboro Pike, Nashville, Tennessee

Music is the lifeblood of Nashville, a gift that often presents itself at no charge. Consider Live on the Green festival, featuring concerts by national and local musicians. These concerts happen at Public Square Park on Labor Day Weekend.

Symphony Under the Stars , featuring the award-winning Nashville Symphony , is another free summer event. Popping up at city parks, you can hear everything from the classics to pop music. The vibe is casual, so don't hesitate to bring fixings for a picnic.

More on Tennessee

45 Amazing Free Things to Do in Nashville TN

By Author Marissa

Posted on Published: February 28, 2023

Categories Free Entertainment , Tennessee

Sharing is caring!

There’s a lot to love about Nashville , and thankfully, many of the city’s best attractions are free! Whether you’re looking to explore music history, enjoy the great outdoors, or just take in some culture, these 45 activities will help keep your budget in check. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

We loved our visit to Nashville , Tennessee and we did a lot in the months we were there but to save the budget we also took advantage of the free things to do in Nashville TN . We love finding free things to do in every state . 

Table of Contents

What are some free activities in Nashville?

Nashville has plenty of free and fun activities, such as visiting one of the many parks and trails, exploring the downtown skyline, enjoying a live music performance, or attending festivals and events.

Where can I find free outdoor attractions in Nashville?

Nashville is home to a wide range of outdoor attractions such as Centennial Park, Shelby Park, Warner Parks & more. Additionally, there are miles of hiking trails available at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park and Stones River National Battlefield.

Related: What to do in Nashville TN – Over 80 Fun Ideas!

What types of events are held in Nashville that don’t cost money?

In addition to its numerous outdoor attractions, Nashville hosts a variety of music-focused festivals and events throughout the year which are often free or very low-cost including Music City Hot Chicken Festival, CMA Fest, Live on the Green Festival & more.

With rentals available all over the world, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay. Airbnb has something for everyone. Plus, with prices that are often much cheaper than traditional hotels, you’ll be able to stretch your vacation budget even further.

If you can not find an Airbnb that fits your needs a second option is VRBO . Find an amazing vacation home for your family.

Get Away Today Vacation Packages

Want to book your entire vacation as a package? Give Get Away Today a try. They have specials and promos going on all the time.

Also, make sure to check out our travel deals page for any deals or sales on your next trip no matter where it is!

While visiting make sure to check out our list of  Top 21 Things To Do on Your Nashville Vacation   but you if want a discount on paid attractions, make sure to check out the Nashville Sightseeing Pass .

Related: Food Challenges in Nashville

Make sure to check out our travel deals page for any deals or sales on your next trip no matter where it is!

While traveling be sure you bring change so you can take advantage of any pressed penny machines you come across. These make great souvenirs. 

1. Parthenon at Centennial Park  – This is a replica of the Parthenon in Athens Greece and is set in Centennial Park. The park is free and a great place for picnics. The Parthenon also holds an Art Museum that requires a fee. The park also does many events.

2. Music at the Bluebird Cafe   – Almost every night the famous Bluebird Cafe features local country artists and there is no cover charge.

3. Tennessee Agriculture Museum – A free museum about the history of farming from the 19th and 20th centuries.

4.   Symphony Under the Stars – During the summer, the Nashville Symphony offers many free concerts and different areas around the city.

5. Tennessee State Museum – The state museum is free though parking during the week is a bit tricky. They have all sorts of state history including print shop reproduction!

6. Music City Walk of Fame  – Located near Honky Tonk Row, there are stars of famous country music singers, from Dolly Parton to Elvis Presley.

Related:  Top 21 Things To Do on Your Nashville Vacation

7. Hatch Show Print – One of the oldest working letterpresses in the country. You can stop in and see them in action and see some of the posters they have made.

8. Cooters Place Museum   – Dukes of Hazard fan? This museum holds everything Duke of Hazard including props.

9. Honky Tonk Row – This is the row where all the honky-tonks are. So many famous country music stars were discovered here. There are some amazing restaurants and shops here as well.

10. Fort Negley  – This is the largest stone forts built inland during the civil war and is set up for self-guided tours.

Related:  25 Can’t-Miss Free Things to do in Knoxville TN

11. Warner Park Nature Center  – This nature center has everything from a natural history museum to an organic garden.

12. Riverfront Park – Right downtown this park is on the water and many events are hosted here.

13. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park  – Learn the history of Tennesee by walking this 19-acre park that includes a 200-foot granite state map and Word War II Memorial.

14. Nashville Flea Market – This is considered to be one of the top 10 in the nation. It is located on the State Fairgrounds on the fourth weekend of every month and you can find just about everything.

15. Hike Radnor Lake   – This park is over 1,200 acres to explore and they have all sorts of activities. Also sites as one of Taylor Swift’s favorite places to visit!

16. Vanderbilt’s Dyer Observatory   – On the first Tuesday morning of every month you can try out their solar telescope.

Related:  Johnny Cash Museum – Nashville, Tennessee

17. Music Row – This is where are the famous record labels in the city are and they are always showing off who recently got a number 1 hit it’s a great drive or walk.

18.  Grand Ole Opry Museum – Adjacent to the Grand Ole Opry House this museum has a ton of great memorabilia.

19. Arrington Vineyards  – Free to visit and the perfect spot for picnics!

20.  Walk Downtown Franklin – Just a short drive from Nashville the picturesque downtown of Franklin, Tennessee. You can watch street performances and even watch fudge being made.

21. Frisk Galleries   – They have over 4,000 objects spanning over 3 centuries of art history.

Related:  189 Free Things to do in Tennessee

22. Fort Donelson National Battlefield  – Famous for the confederal surrender of the fort by Brigadier General Ulysses S. Grant.

23.   Antique Archaeology – Visit and see the treasures that American History’s American Pickers find on their TV show.

24. Fort Nashborough  – This fort is in Riverside Park and offers self-guided tours.

25. Gaylord Opryland Resort – They have a huge beautiful indoor garden that is free to walk and they decorate it based on the season and holiday.

Related:  The Hermitage, Home of Andrew Jackson – Nashville, Tennessee

26.   Cannonsburgh Villiage – Just a short drive down to Murfreesboro this historical old village is free to tour and has a ton of great history.

27. Long Hunter State Park   – Over 20 miles of hiking trails and includes Sellar’s Farm State Archaeological Area.

28. McGavock Confederate Cemetary – Open during daylight hours and a great tribute to the civil war.

29.  Jack Daniel’s Distillery – A bit longer of a drive than the others but totally worth it! This tour is free if you don’t want to taste the whiskey at the end.

Some are saying the tour is no longer free but the museum and visitor center is. There is plenty to do in Lynchburg Tennessee to make the drive worth it!

30. Nissan Motor Manufacturing Corp.   – Free tours are held at 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. on Tues. & Thurs. You do need reservations, get them by emailing [email protected]

Related:  The Loveless Café – Nashville, Tennessee

31. Tennessee State Capitol – Guided tour available Monday – Friday.

32. Nashville Farmer’s Market  – Open 7 days a week but the best time to go is on the weekends. There are tons to see and it’s a great spot to people watch.

33. Winstead Hill Park  – Civil War historic site with some great memorials.

34 Johnny Cash Grave Site – Just outside Nashville is the Johnny Cash Grave Site and home. Pay your respects to the man in black who many say started country music as we know it.

35. Fannie Mae Dees Park  – Popular for its fun kids play area but it’s also called dragon park because of all the mosaic dragons popping out of the ground.

Related: 10 Free Things to do in Murfreesboro TN

36. Midnite Jamboree  – Tickets are free and you can see this radio show as it’s recorded before it goes on the air.

37. Savannah’s Candy Kitchen  – Located down on Honky Tonk Row on Broadway is this fun candy store, and they hand on free samples!

38. SoBro Neighborhood –  This neighborhood is close to downtown and known for its murals and art around the neighborhood.

39.  Music City Circuit  – This is a free bus that has over 75 different stops on 2 different routes and is a great way to see the city.

40. CMA Music Festival  –  While the main stages with the big stars cost money there are 7 stages around town that are free and have up and comers!

41.  Vanderbilt University’s Concerts – The music department hosts many concerts throughout the year.

Related: 21 Can’t-Miss Free Things to Do in Memphis TN – (Including Graceland!

42. Belmont University Concerts – Belmont University, also home to the Belmont Mansion, also hosts many concerts throughout the year.

43. The Nashville Library – The kid’s section hosts a storytime and puppet show Tuesday – Friday, make sure to check their schedule.

44. NHL Predators Practice – You can watch the NHL Predators during practice and warm-up times for free.

45. Tennessee Titans Training Camp   – You can also watch the Tennessee Titans practice during their training camp for free.

Nashville is a city that’s constantly buzzing with energy and there’s always something new to explore. If you’re looking for ideas on how to spend your weekend in Music City, check out our list of free things to do in Nashville . From catching a free concert at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center to exploring the beautiful grounds of Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum, there’s plenty to keep you busy without breaking the bank. Are there any other free activities in Nashville that we missed? Let us know in the comments below!

Get Our Travel Tips and Freebies!

Join our travel community and get weekly updates with travel tips, locations, and freebies. Can't wait to connect with you!

Arron Korth

Friday 3rd of September 2021

I am happy to hear that there are plenty of free things to do in Nashville TN. I am excited about free music on Honky Tonk Highway. Thanks for sharing such a great post with us.

Friday 4th of June 2021

Hello, thank you for the information. I would like to suggest one more place to enjoy nightlife in Nashville and it is called Legend's Corner.

Thursday 12th of December 2019

I am so glad you enjoyed Nashville! I love my state of Tennessee and I love working and living in Nashville. ❤

Wednesday 28th of February 2018

How cool that you blog about your travels! I am the oldest of a family with five kids and in 2014 we hit the road in an RV. We are still traveling and have visited all 50 states! We are homeschooled too and I have an uncle who works for the Navy in San Diego California. How cool that is life is so similar! We are Memphis TN right now and are heading to Nashville next week. Thanks for the travel tips! I have a blog too: thesojourner2017.wordpress.com Looking forward to keeping up on your travels!

Wednesday 8th of February 2017

The Jack Daniels tour is no longer free. There is a $10 per person admission charge as of Fall 2016.

Thursday 16th of March 2017

I hadn't heard about that change. IS that for the NON tasting tour? I know the tour with the tasting at the end was a charged tour. Also now wondering since we went out of season if that has anything to do with the free price.

Despite Jack Daniels, thank you for the list. We moved to Tennessee a couple of years ago and we are still exploring. I can't wait to hit some of these places on your list.

Privacy Overview

21 Unforgettable Free Things to Do in Nashville

09/09/2021 by Emily Becker Leave a Comment

Nashville is the country music capital of the USA, and with a nickname like “the Music City,” you can expect to find a plethora of live music there, from bluegrass to rock to opera and everything in between. While this list of free things to do in Nashville certainly has its fair share of music, you may be surprised how many other wonderful things there are to do there without having to spend a dime.

Without further ado, here are the top 21 absolutely free things to do in Nashville:

Table of Contents

21. Self-Guided Walking Tour

I’ll admit it, sometimes my favorite thing to do in a new city is simply walk around, taking everything in. I’ve gotten lost more times than I can admit because of this habit. If you are like me and love seeing a new place on foot, consider embarking on a self-guided walking tour.

There are plenty of different ones available from Nashville Sites , from civil rights sit-in tours to food tours, all free.

20. Honky Tonk Highway for Free Music

Nashville gets its nickname as the Music City not only because it is the birthplace of country music, but also because you can find live shows around nearly every corner in town. While many concerts are not free, the live music you’ll find on Honky Tonk Highway (Upper Broadway or Lower Broadway) often is!

Some venues that have live shows for free are: Honky Tonk Central, Whiskey Bent Saloon, Tootsies Orchid Lounge, AJ’s Good Time Bar, and Ole Red Nashville.

19. Concerts at Vanderbilt University

Looking for something other than country music to listen to? At Vanderbilt University, you can catch a free classical music or opera concert during the school year. Even if you’re a jazz, bluegrass, or country music fanatic, it could be nice to change it up and check out a different genre.

For a list of concerts, check out Vanderbilt’s Blair School of Music event calendar .

18. Music in the Vines at Arrington Vineyards

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Arrington Vineyards (@arringtonvineyards)

Every Saturday and Sunday from April to October, Arrington Vineyards hosts free live jazz and bluegrass performances. The vineyard makes a gorgeous backdrop for the concerts, and many people bring their lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy a picnic during the performances.

Keep an eye on Arrington Vineyards’ events calendar to see who is playing during your trip.

17. Annual CMA Music Festival

This yearly, four-day summer festival has free stages that are open to the public during the day. As it’s one of the city’s largest music festivals, there are plenty of options for free concerts.

For updates on next year’s CMA Music Festival, along with information on free stages, check out the CMA Fest’s website .

16. Live on the Green Music Festival

Each year in Public Square Park, Lightning 100 puts on a free outdoor concert series that features both local and national musicians. Although the festival is postponed for 2021, organizers plan to return for Labor Day weekend 2022, so stay tuned for updates here .

15. Music City Walk of Fame

View this post on Instagram A post shared by kristens_nashville_cravings (@kristens_nashville_cravings)

In Walk of Fame Park, you will find the granite stars of famous musicians like Dolly Parton, Jimi Hendrix, Elvis Presley, and many more. Spend some time looking for your favorite artist any time of day, any day of the week. This is a must-stop in Nashville, as it’s one of the city’s most beloved landmarks.

14. Cooter’s Place Museum

If you are a Dukes of Hazzard fan, you know who Cooter is. I’ll admit that I was confused about this one, as I’m not too familiar with the fandom, and this museum is pretty niche. However, it is actually owned by the actor who plays Cooter, Ben Jones. Cooter’s Place Museum features costumes and other original artifacts from the TV show, including several of the vehicles used during filming.

The museum is always free to visit and is open Sunday to Thursday, 9am to 6pm and Friday to Saturday, 9am to 7pm.

13. Hatch Show Print

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hatch Show Print Est. 1879 (@hatchshowprint)

Have you ever wondered how famous concert posters are made? At Hatch Show Print, you can see the work of one of the oldest working letterpress shops in the US. The posters made here are the gold standard for letterpress prints and have a cool old-school flair.

The print shop, retail space, and gallery are all free to visit. Check the hours for each here .

12. Tennessee Agricultural Museum

For a deep dive into all things farming, head to the Tennessee Agricultural Museum. It contains over 3,000 artifacts, which take visitors on a journey to a time before electricity, when agriculture looked very different from what we see today. You’ll find two levels of exhibits, an heirloom garden, and historic cabins at this unique museum.

Admission is always free at the Tennessee Agricultural Museum , which you can visit Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm.

11. Nashville Flea Market

The Nashville Flea Market is held at the Tennessee State Fairgrounds every fourth weekend (with the exception of December when it’s the third weekend). It’s ranked in the top ten flea markets in the country due to its size and impressive diversity of vendors. It has an average of 2,000 booths and between 800 and 1,200 dealers and vendors from over 30 states. With a selection like that, who knows what kinds of treasures you will find! (This is also probably the coolest way to look for souvenirs, if you ask me!)

For a complete list of days and times for the flea market, check this calendar .

10. Tennessee State Museum

History buffs, this one’s for you! The Tennessee State Museum is full of historical artifacts, special exhibits, and a comprehensive look at the unique stories that shaped the trajectory of the state. The museum gives visitors a look into precolonial times and all the way up to the present day.

Admission to the Tennessee State Museum is always free. It is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm and Sunday, 1pm to 5pm.

9. Tennessee State Capitol Building Tours

The Tennessee State Capitol, where the state’s biggest decisions are made, first opened its doors in 1859 and has been in operation ever since. Being such a historic building, there is plenty to see and explore inside.

You can take a self-guided tour through the building Monday through Friday from 9am to 4pm. Guided tours are also available for free and last 45 minutes. You do not need a reservation and can begin the tour at 9am, 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm, or 3pm at the first-floor information desk. Plan your visit here .

8. Centennial Park

This 132-acre green space is more than just a city park. It includes a one-mile walking trail, a replica of the Parthenon, Lake Watauga, an art center, several historic monuments that are worth checking out, and more . There is so much to do at Centennial Park that you could spend an entire day just exploring it.

This park is also the site of many summer events, such as Big Band Dances , which happen on specific Saturdays in the summer.

7. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

Next to the capitol building in downtown Nashville is Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, an 11-acre green space right in the heart of the city. Here you’ll find trails, along with a 200-foot granite map of Tennessee, an open-air atrium, and plenty of other notable landmarks.

6. John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

To get one of the best views of the Nashville skyline, head to the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge over the Cumberland River. This is one of the longest such bridges in the world and is easily recognizable because of its unique trusses. Take a walk around sunset to see vibrant colors reflect off the downtown buildings and river below.

5. Warner Parks

Although the Warner Parks aren’t technically within the city limits of Nashville, they’re only about 9 miles away from downtown and certainly worth a short trip out there. You’ll find over 60 miles of trails, plus picnic areas, a dog park, a low ropes course, and much more . With so many activities available, you could easily spend an entire day (or two!) at Warner Parks.

The parks are open from sunrise until 11pm year-round and host plenty of free events .

4. Midnite Jamboree Taping

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ernest Tubb Record Shop (@ernesttubbrecordshop)

Watching a live recording of Midnite Jamboree , one of Nashville’s longest-running radio shows, is a rite of passage. It’s taped on Saturday nights at 10pm in the Texas Troubadour Theatre (admission is free), and often hosts famous guests who you might not get to see free otherwise.

3. First Saturday Art Crawl

If you happen to be visiting Nashville around the first Saturday of the month, don’t miss out on the First Saturday Art Crawl through some of the city’s best galleries. The evening features the work of both local and international artists, in a wide variety of genres.

The First Saturday Art Crawl, from 6 to 9pm, is free. The schedule and map is here .

2. Savannah’s Candy Kitchen

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Savannah’s Candy Kitchen (@savcandy)

Looking for the best handmade candy in the South? You’ll find it at Savannah’s Candy Kitchen ! This vintage-style shop is a favorite of locals and has all the Southern charm that you would expect. Browse the colorful confections and take advantage of the free samples the store is known for.

1. Sheraton Nashville Downtown’s Glass Elevators

Bring out your inner child’s glee by riding the 28-story glass elevators at Sheraton Nashville Downtown. Sure, this might not be your typical tourist destination, but these elevators are tremendously fun to ride, and the lobby of the hotel is a sight to see on its own. Plus, the glitzy gold and glass hotel interior will have you feeling fancy, even if you aren’t staying there.

Pin me for later:

Do you feel it, too? You know, that urge to impulse-buy some cowboy boots and a plane ticket to Nashville? I know it can’t only be me…

Next time you’re feeling like taking a Southern vacation or road trip , make sure the Music City is on your list. Between all the free music, parks, and other awesome activities, you’re sure to have a great time — without breaking the bank.

About Emily Becker

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

 subscribe to our newsletter

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Nashville for free: the 20 best things to do without touching your wallet

Mar 10, 2023 • 8 min read

Hit the road and check out the free things to do in Nashville © Rick Stufflebean / Getty Images

Like its famous hot chicken, Music City knows how to bring the heat. Even with its big-city vibe, Nashville retains the charm and gentility of a small Southern town.

Despite the city's growing popularity, it's possible to explore on a budget. From the wild honky-tonks on Broadway to the scenic hiking trails along Radnor Lake, here are the top free things to do in Nashville.

1. Nostalgia fans should head to Cooter’s Place Museum

Fans of the Dukes of Hazzard make the pilgrimage to Nashville for Cooter’s Place Museum , a collection of memorabilia from the hit '80s television series. The museum, which is owned by Cooter himself (real name: Ben Jones), is filled with photos, costumes and props like Daisy Duke’s jeep and the iconic General Lee. Admission is always free.

Local tip : If you were born this century, you may not have experienced the  Dukes of Hazzard,  an action comedy series that aired from 1979 to 1985. It was also responsible for a generation of children trying to get into their family car via the windows. For $10, you can get your own photo op in the window of one of the iconic prop cars.

2. Explore the Civil War-era Fort Negley

Built by the Union army during the Civil War, Fort Negley was the biggest stone fortification in North America at the time, a formidable structure that was made to withstand the Confederate army’s advances into Nashville. Today, you can take a free self-guided tour of the grounds with education panels along the route, as well as videos and interactive exhibits.

3. Hit Broadway’s honky-tonks

One of the best ways to get a taste of quintessential Nashville is to hit up the honky-tonks on Broadway. Robert’s Western World , Layla’s and the venerable Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge rarely charge a cover and showcase some electric live country performances with a side of stellar people watching.

4. Listen to music 'Live on the Green'

After returning in 2022, Live on the Green  will take over Public Square Park in Downtown Nashville on Thursdays from August to September. Locals pack the two-acre park with picnic blankets, chairs and pets to catch a star-powered lineup of live – and free – musical performances. 

5. Jam at the Ernest Tubb Midnite Jamboree at the Texas Troubadour Center

Every Saturday, Nashville’s night owls flock to the Texas Troubadour Center at midnight for the Ernest Tubb Midnite Jamboree . As the second-longest-running radio show in the country, the Jamboree provides up-close-and-personal performances from country stars past and present – all without charging a dime.

Planning tip : Although it's free, you can pre-book a ticket via Eventbrite to guarantee entry.

6. Go to the open mic night at Bluebird Cafe

Located in an unassuming strip mall, the legendary Bluebird Cafe has hosted performances from trailblazing songwriters like Emmylou Harris and Garth Brooks. Catch a rising star at one of their free 6pm Monday night Open Mic sessions, no reservations required.

7. Watch the Nashville Predators ice hockey team practice for free

You’d be hard-pressed to find a US city that loves its ice hockey team as much as Nashvillians love their Preds. And with good reason – the team consistently ranks high on the NHL leaderboard. The team's  practice sessions  at the Centennial Sportsplex  and the Ford Ice Center  are open to the public and free to watch.

Local tip : The Predators began in 1998 as one of the four expansion teams that joined the NHL that year. After an initial losing streak in its first five seasons, they’ve since gone on to make Nashville proud. So expect to meet some uber-passionate Preds fans.

8. Go on a self-guided tour of the Tennessee State Capitol

Built from local limestone and marble in the Greek Revival style and opened in 1859, the Tennessee State Capitol is one of the oldest working capitols in the nation. Statues and tombs of presidents past can be found on the site, along with the governor’s office. Take a free self-guided tour of the site, or check if guided tours are available.

9. Stroll Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

After wrapping up your Capitol tour, take a stroll along the adjacent Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park , where 200 years of state history and geography are displayed on granite slabs and stones.

Local tip : The resident fountains – 31 in total – keep things cool for little ones and make sneaking in a geography lesson a snap.

10. Learn local history at Tennessee State Museum

The area around Bicentennial Park really offers the most bang for your proverbial (albeit unnecessary) dollar. Here, you’ll also find the Tennessee State Museum , which provides a balanced walk-through of the state’s contentious past.

Local tip : Highlights include offbeat artifacts like President Andrew Jackson’s hat and a hands-on children’s museum.

11. Spot wildlife in Radnor Lake State Park

Built in the early 1900s by L&N Railroad, Radnor Lake State Park now stands as a 1368-acre natural preserve, teeming with owls, otters, deer and other creatures. You can explore this rich wildlife sanctuary via six miles of open trails. Just be sure to leave any pets at home.

Planning tip : The Dam Trail is marked ADA Accessible and takes in excellent views of the lake, as well as the opportunity to spy spring wildflowers and local wildlife. 

12. Check out the free programs at Warner Park Nature Center

Sitting within Edwin and Percy Warner Parks, the Nature Center is a living laboratory that kids and grown-ups love to explore. Along with its natural history museum and working organic garden, the center provides free programming throughout the year. Check the  schedule to see what's happening.

13. Cool off in a swimming hole at Montgomery Bell State Park

One of the best ways to cool off during the summer months is to take advantage of Tennessee’s many swimming holes. Some charge an entry fee, but Montgomery Bell State Park’s Lake Acorn – located 40 minutes outside of Nashville – has a free swimming beach that’s open from Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend.

Planning tip : There's also a year-round campground with sites equipped with water and electricity in the park. Back-country camping is also possible with a permit. 

14. Get inspired at the Downtown Nashville open house art crawl

On the first Saturday of the month, the art galleries in Downtown Nashville open their doors to the public for an evening of new exhibitions, street performances and interactive art activities for the whole family. There’s a trolley that takes you along the route, and you can also enjoy the complimentary glasses of wine offered by the galleries along the way.

15. Hear live jazz and bluegrass at Arrington Vineyards

Head 30 minutes south of Nashville to Arrington Vineyards , home to a sprawling countryside of vines, hills and the occasional strum of banjos. Co-owned by Kix Brooks from the much-loved musical duo Brooks & Dunn, this place has a fantastic atmosphere. On Saturday and Sunday nights, April through October, the winery hosts its "Music in the Vines" series featuring live jazz and bluegrass under the stars. You’ll have to pony up for the wine, but the entrance and musical performances are free.

Planning tip : Check out the vineyard's events calendar for live music dates and their popular Food Truck Fridays. 

16. Star gaze at Vanderbilt’s Dyer Observatory

Anyone can spend a night stargazing. But at the Dyer Observatory , you can take your celestial surveillance to the next level during one of their Open House sessions. Keep an eye on the website to see when guided tours are running – free tickets are available one month before the event and should be reserved in advance.

17. Admire the artisan produces at Nashville Farmers’ Market

Conveniently located next to the capitol grounds, the Nashville Farmers' Market puts all of Tennessee’s natural bounty on display. Depending on the season, you’ll find more than 150 farmers and artisans selling fruit and veggies along with freshly-made cheese and bread. Enjoy a free wander around before buying a smorgasbord lunch from the globally diverse eats found within the Market House.

Planning tip : While the market is open daily from 8am to 6pm (closed on the occasional national holiday), stall holders hours vary. 

18. Admire the botanic gardens of Gaylord Opryland Hotel

Next to the Grand Ole Opry is the largest non-casino resort in the US –  Gaylord Opryland Resort . Whether you're staying on the property or not, you’re welcome to wander the nine acres of botanical gardens filled with waterfalls and more than 50,000 tropical plants, which require a staff of 20 horticulturalists to maintain.

19. See the printing presses of the iconic Hatch Show Print

The posters produced at  Hatch Show Print are iconic pieces of Americana in their own right. This design and letterpress shop has been printing posters that define Americana since 1879. While you’ll have to buy a ticket to tour this venerable letterpress print shop, you can pop in and watch their printing presses at work for free.

20. Sneak a peak of Nashville's Parthenon

Nashville’s Parthenon is a full-scale replica of the architectural wonder in Athens, Greece. You’ll have to pay admission to get inside, but the views from the outside inspire just as much awe. Pack a picnic lunch, spread a blanket out on the Parthenon’s greens and watch the resident wild geese roam the field.

This article was first published July 2019 and updated March 2023

Explore related stories

Budget Travel

Mar 4, 2024 • 7 min read

Looking for a fun-filled city break that won’t break the bank? Then Memphis has you covered.

Mar 18, 2022 • 5 min read

Jul 22, 2014 • 6 min read

Jan 5, 2024 • 20 min read

Jun 13, 2023 • 6 min read

Mar 7, 2023 • 5 min read

Aug 18, 2022 • 15 min read

Jul 28, 2022 • 11 min read

Feb 1, 2021 • 8 min read

Jan 12, 2021 • 4 min read

THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Nashville

Best free things to do in nashville.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Downtown Nashville
• Green Hills
• Bellmont/Hillsboro
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Ole Smoky Distillery & Yee-Haw Brewery

2. Gaylord Opryland Garden Conservatory

3. Downtown Nashville

4. Tennessee State Museum

5. Radnor Lake State Park

6. Tennessee Legend Distillery

7. Centennial Park

8. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

9. The District

10. Opry Mills

11. John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

12. Cooter’s Museum and Store Nashville

13. Edwin and Percy Warner Parks

14. Vanderbilt University

15. Music City Center

16. Music Row

17. Natchez Trace Parkway

18. Nashville Public Library

19. Tennessee Brew Works

20. Nashville Farmers' Market

21. Cumberland River Pedestrian Bridge

22. Diskin Cider

23. Marathon Village

24. Tennessee State Capitol

25. Shelby Bottoms Greenway

26. Riverfront Park

27. Big Machine Brewery & Distillery

28. Nashville Flea Market

29. Printer's Alley

30. What Lifts You Mural

What travellers are saying

This website uses cookies to improve your browsing experience and analyze the use of the website. Learn More

What to Do for Free in Nashville

This post covers free and cheap things to do in Nashville, including a top 10 list as well as tips for families and nighttime activities. 

• Attractions & Museums
• Things to Do with Kids
• Nighttime Activities
• Almost-Free Things to Do

Our list is based on the opinions of travelers, tourists, and locals. We also list professional tours led by local guides who have lived in the area for many years.

If you're trying to plan out an itinerary for your trip to Nashville, consider reading our section providing tips from locals which covers some of the more common questions visitors have when coming to this city.

TOP 10 FREE THINGS TO DO IN NASHVILLE 

There are plenty of free or affordable things to do in Nashville. Here are our top 10 things you can do for free in Music City.

And check out the other sections of this post for more details about attractions, museums, and kid-friendly activities. 

1. Free Music on Honky Tonk Highway

Enjoying some music is a must when you’re in Music City. After all, live music is playing every day of the year.

That means you can walk down Upper Broadway or Lower Broadway, known as the Honky Tonk Highway, and find a live music venue.

It could be a restaurant, bar, or saloon with a dance floor at any time of day.

Some famous venues on Honky Tonk Highway:

• AJ’s Good Time Bar
• Honky Tonk Central
• Ole Red Nashville
• Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge
• Whiskey Bent Saloon

There’s more free music in other parts of the city, too! Check out the free music section below to find more venues.

2. Sightseeing Tours

Downtown Nashville is walkable enough to take yourself on a self-guided tour, visit our Self Guided Tours of Nashville page for a few options.

For fans of the Nashville TV show, VisitMusicCity.com offers a detailed guide to see places that were featured, such as the Public Square Park where characters frequently walk on their way to the mayor’s office.

Fort Negley was built for the American Civil War and the largest fort of its time.

The rest of the tour will take you through important innovations throughout Nashville’s history. 

3. Tennessee State Museum

The Tennessee State Museum is where you’ll find the most comprehensive look at the state’s history.

From documenting the lives of the First Peoples of Tennessee to constructing a Time Tunnel, many of the exhibits take a fascinating deep dive into how our modern-day was shaped.

Permanent exhibits include The Civil War and Reconstruction, a look into Natural History, and a focus on Change and Challenge from 1870 to 1945.

You can find medals of honor and nurse uniforms from WWI, examples of late 1800’s fashion, and one of the first automobiles built in Tennessee.

If you have younger children between the ages of 3 and 8, they’ll enjoy the interactive Children’s Gallery.

Every Thursday and Saturday, the Tennessee State Museum holds storytimes for children ages 3 to 6. A staff member will read to the children, and free crafts are also supplied.

No reservations are necessary. Storytime is 30 minutes long and starts at 10:30 am. 

The museum always offers free admission.

• Tuesday through Saturday open from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Thursdays open late to 8:00 pm
• Sunday open 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
• Closed Monday

4. Discover the Many Free Parks

There are plenty of parks to explore in Nashville. The city is very proud of their green spaces and often utilize them for community events and live music.

Free parks include the Bicentennial Capitol Mall , Centennial Park , and Fort Negley .  

Fannie Mae Dees Park , often called the Dragon Park, is full of play areas and equipment, including a splash pad for cooling off in the summer.

The main feature is a display of large dragons covered in mosaic tiles, perfect for climbing on and around.

Riverfront Park is a grass-covered slope on the side of the Cumberland River that doubles as seating for large outdoor events.

Centennial Park has Big Band Dances on specific Saturdays in June, July, and August. The live music is the soundtrack for dancing, including dance lessons in specific ballroom dances.

We have more free, family-friendly ideas in the section below.

5. Attend the Midnite Jamboree

The Midnite Jamboree is a famous, long-running radio show in Nashville.

They fill the Texas Troubadour Theatre studio with guests for the tapings at 10:00 pm on Saturdays.

Guest stars range from up-and-coming singers and songwriters to big-name artists who just finished their Grand Ole Opry concerts.

Then you can hear it on the radio station AM 650 at midnight! We list even more free nighttime activities below. 

6. Savannah’s Candy Kitchen

Find the best handmade candy in the South at Savannah’s Candy Kitchen .

Their location on Broadway has an impressive selection of caramel apples, chocolates, gourmet popcorn, and pralines.

Shop employees will hand out free samples as you walk in the door.

Other candy shops in Nashville include The Goo Goo Shop and Dessert Bar , Leon's Candy , and Rocket Fizz . 

7. Check out a Neighborhood

Downtown Nashville is where most well-known venues and attractions are situated, including Upper and Lower Broadway.

However, you can see some more of Nashville’s personality if you venture out into some other neighborhoods. SoBro is right next to Downtown and home to interesting murals, markets, and local happy hours.

You can walk into Hatch Show Print for free, one of the oldest letterpress shops in the nation still operating. They have posters from famous events and performers on the walls.

If you want to get immersed in a more historic neighborhood, head north to Germantown .

Germantown boasts old industrial buildings, homes from the 1800s, and the hipster conversion of the old firehouse into a Neighborhood Resource Center.

8. Purchase a Tourist Pass

While not free upfront, if you purchase one of Nashville’s city passes you can visit multiple attractions for a bulk discount.

These are perfect if you want to see and experience as much of the city as possible.

If you maximize your time efficiently, you will end up getting free entry to multiple attractions each day

Click here to see our comparison of Nashville Tourist Passes . 

9. Parthenon at Centennial Park

The Parthenon is an interesting building in the middle of an urban park in Nashville.

It was built to commemorate Nashville’s Centennial anniversary and houses an art museum.

The museum has an entry fee, but it is free to explore the outside of the Parthenon with its columns and the nearby statues.

If you have kids, check out Kidsville , a free, educational, and crafty weekly program at 11:00 on Saturdays. It’s the only way to see inside the Parthenon for free! 

10. Bluebird Cafe

The Bluebird Cafe is famous for its intimate shows with singers and songwriters. Their 6:00 pm evening shows are free, but require making reservations in advance .

There is a $10 minimum food and drink purchase on each person, so it's only almost free.

The tickets generally go on sale the week before the performance and sell out quickly, so be sure to put your name on the list as close to one week out as possible.

If you can’t get tickets, check when the doors open at 5:00 pm to see if there are any spaces in their 10 pew seats or any no-shows at the reserved tables.

Lines start forming early for these seats.

MORE FREE MUSEUMS AND ATTRACTIONS

Nashville is full of history from the American Civil War, to the World Wars, to the happenings of the music world.

The Tennessee State Museum above in our top 10 has a great overview of the state’s history, and they’re open late on Thursdays.

We also mention the Parthenon replica in Centennial Park above.

• Attend a First Saturday Art Crawl

Across the city center, art galleries open their doors to host people on the first Saturday of every month.

You can pick and choose which shops and vendors to check out. Most offer refreshments, including wine. Many of the galleries are at the Nashville Arcade Mall.

This interesting replica of an Italian arcade mall was built in 1903 and is still packed full of restaurants, cafes, art galleries, barbershops, and alteration services.

The architecture of Nashville’s first covered mall has an old-world charm. The Arcade is worth exploring.

The participating galleries for the First Saturday Art Crawl swap out and are easily accessible by walking and using the Gray Line Trolley.

• The Shelby Street Pedestrian Bridge

One of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world, this unique bridge spans the Cumberland River.

It is instantly recognizable for the trusses covering the walkway. You can also catch some beautiful views of the Nashville skyline from this bridge.

Free Public Transit in Nashville

If you’re looking for an easy way to get around the center of the city, try the free Music City Circuit bus.

The bus serves two main routes with over 75 bus stops, and between them, you can find the Bridgestone Arena, Ryman Auditorium, Farmer’s Market, and the Gulch neighborhood bars and restaurants.

Buses should arrive at each stop every 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic, from 6:00 or 7:00 am until 11:00 pm. Check the transit website for details about each route. 

The Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

The Bicentennial Capitol Mall is a 19-acre park with green space connected to the state capitol buildings.

The Capitol Mall also holds an open-air atrium which features the engraved names of 3,400 Tennesseans who died in WWI on a few of the walls and was built during the state’s Bicentennial Celebration during the mid-1990s.

You'll also find a wall timeline of Tennesee History and a WWII Memorial.

The state parks department offers a map so you don’t miss any of the native plants displayed in large planters throughout the park or the 200-foot long granite map of Tennessee.

Cooter’s Place Museum

Fans of the Dukes of Hazzard show can enjoy the display of original costumes, props, and even some of the original cars and trucks (including the General Lee) in Cooter’s Place .

The actor who played Cooter, Ben Jones, is the owner and operator of the museum and shop.

Cooter’s is open seven days a week from 8:30 am to 8:00 pm and always free.

• Hatch Show Print

The oldest working letterpress shop in Tennessee, Hatch Show Print , is famous for its event, venue, and performance posters and handbills.

Their work covered windows and buildings across the country with iconic type and style.

Their shop has iconic posters displayed from acts they have designed for in the past.

One Sunday every month, they host a free letterpress workshop at noon, 1:00 pm, and 2:00 pm for participants aged 6 and up.

A limited number of passes are handed out at the Country Music Hall of Fame 30 minutes prior to each workshop. 

Tennessee State Capitol

The Tennessee State Capitol building, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, is open to the public on weekdays, excluding state holidays.

The building was formerly home to several Catholic church congregations and is now occupied by the state government.

The Tennessee State Museum staff offer free guided tours of the building, starting at the first-floor Info Desk every hour from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, except for the 12:00 pm lunch hour.

FREE MUSIC IN NASHVILLE

We’ve talked about the Honky Tonk Highway, that famous street lined with restaurants, bars, and music venues. But there's more to Music City Music.

Here we’ve listed the best places to find free music in other parts of Nashville.

From traditional and modern country music to jazz, blues, or rock & roll, you’re bound to find a band, venue, or festival you’ll enjoy.

CMA Music Festival

CMA Fest comes to Nashville in early June, with a crowd of the top performers in country music.

If you can’t afford to buy tickets to the main stage show, go find one of the seven free stages scattered throughout downtown during the four-day festival.

Acts generally perform between 10 am and 4:30 pm.

If you stick around long enough, you might even win some pizza from the free giveaways hosted on the stage.

Other festivals that offer free music include Tomato Art Fest , Fisk Food and Music Fest, African Street Festival , and Celebrate Nashville Cultural Fest , to name a few. 

Take Your Picnic to a Winery

Arrington V i neyards hosts Music in the Vines, a summertime live music series.

From April to October, you can go out to Kix Brooks’ vineyard and listen to live jazz and bluegrass every weekend.

Pavilion seating and picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so you might want to bring a blanket.

Sumner Crest Winery holds twice-monthly outdoor concerts between May and September.

Each concert has a theme, such as “Beach Bash” or a specific decade of music. Bring your own chairs and blankets, as seating isn’t provided.

Beachaven Winery has a Jazz on the Lawn concert series. The concerts are held from May through October on some Saturdays.

If you want to enjoy some more lively dancing, games, and food trucks, you can go to their DJ on the Dock evening happy hour series on Thursday nights during June and July.

No outside alcohol is allowed at the wineries. Of course, feel free to purchase a bottle (or more) of wine to enjoy with the free concerts! 

Concerts at Vanderbilt and Belmont

During the school year, Vanderbilt University’s music department hosts free concerts, including opera nights with the University Orchestra. Check their calendar for event dates.

Belmont University also hosts free music events with their symphony and choirs. 

Big Band Dances

June through August, most Saturday evenings at Centennial Park are filled with dancers and lawn chairs as a big band plays. There are dance lessons offered as the band is warming up.

Bring a blanket or a folding chair and some energy for dancing.

Find a Restaurant with Live Music

The almost-free way to find a high-quality free show in Nashville is to find a restaurant in Nashville.

Plenty of pubs and restaurants within the city have a stage - or room on the floor - for a performer to come in and play during your meal.

Here are a few popular spots for food and tunes from live musicians:

• Acme Feed & Seed
• B.B. King’s Nashville
• Cafe Fontanella
• Whiskey Row
• Hard Rock Cafe
• Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville
• Puckett’s Grocery

FREE THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN NASHVILLE

If you’re bringing your family with you, there are plenty of free things to do with them, too.

Some of our Top 10 are family-friendly, such as:

• Fannie Mae Dees Park with large, colorful dragons coming out of the ground .
• Go to Kidsville , a free, educational, and crafty weekly program at 11:00 on Saturdays at the art museum inside the Parthenon.
• Visit the Garden Conservatory at Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center.
• See the Dancing Fountain Shows at Gaylord Opryland Resort.
• Find Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton on the Music City Walk of Fame.
• Attend a free activity at the Warner Parks Nature Center .
• Read a book at the Nashville Public Library.
• See Wildlife at Radnor Lake State Park.
• Listen to live music
• Go on Sightseeing Tour
• Tennessee State Museum Interactive Gallery & Story Time

We detail many more free things to do with kids on our main post about Things to Do in Nashville with kids

• Nashville Predators Training Schedule
• Tennessee Titans Schedule
• See a Story Time or Puppet Show at the Nashville Library
• Attend a free family event at Hatch Show Print

FREE THINGS TO DO AT NIGHT IN NASHVILLE

Music City always has shows and activities going at night, and our Top 10 Free Things To Do in Nashville has a few of them such as:

• Bluebird Cafe songwriters nights
• Visit Honky Tonk Highway
• Stop by the Tennessee State Museum, open late on Thursdays.
• Go to the Midnite Jamboree
• Get a free sample at Savannah's Candy Kitchen

We go over many more free things to do at night on our main post about Things to Do at Night in Nashville

• More venues for live music, such as Station Inn, Douglass Cafe and Big Bang Dueling Pianos
• Dance the night away at Centennial Park
• Watch the Titans or Predators practice

CHEAP THINGS TO DO IN NASHVILLE

Having a good time in Music City without spending too much is easy.

In most gastropubs, diners, and restaurants, there is free musical entertainment to go along with your meal!

But if you’re looking for something non-musical, we have a few suggestions on cheap things to do in Nashville.

Frist Art Museum

The Frist Art Museum is open every day of the week in downtown Nashville.

It is considered almost free if you have a family that includes any members aged 18 or younger, as they get in for free.

You can see a selection of works from young Tennessee artists all the way to marriage chests from Renaissance Italy.

Docents are available in the museum to answer questions, and there are free architecture tours on Saturdays at 4:30 pm.

Adult tickets are $15 and senior and college student tickets are $10.

Note : They are open until 8:00 pm on Thursdays.

Rent a Bike to see Nashville

Nashville B-cycle , the city’s bike-share program, promotes low-energy ways of getting around the city.

Bike stands are available throughout Nashville that hold unoccupied bikes.

All you need is a credit card to start a membership and unlock a bike. There are plenty of parks, trails, and greenways to ride through.

A 24-hour membership is $5, which includes the first hour of every ride.

After that first 60 minutes, you will be charged $1.50 for each additional 30 minutes that you ride. It’s a really low-cost way to get from neighborhood to neighborhood!

Find Fresh Food or Souvenirs at a Market

The Nashville Farmers Market is located across the street from the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park.

The market is open, with vendors selling fresh fruit, vegetables, cheese, and other goods most Wednesdays and Saturdays.

They hold a Night Market one Thursday a month from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

The Nashville Flea Market is held at the fairgrounds on the last weekend of every month.

Vendors sell antiques, furniture, specialty food, clothing, jewelry, and other goods. You might be able to find a unique souvenir while here!

Tips From Nashville Locals

This section will attempt to answer some of the most common questions travelers have about visiting Nashville.

What is the difference between Music Row and Honky Tonk Highway?

While Broadway might be known for something else in New York City, here in Nashville it's known as the "Honky Tonk Highway," one of the busiest streets in the city thanks to its row of honky tonks playing live music each night.

Music Row, on the other hand, is where you'll find a number of historic and beloved record labels and music studios. This area can be found on 16th and 17th avenue.

Is it safe to stay in Music Row?

If you're trying to figure out where to stay in Nashville, Music Row is one of the safer neighborhoods in the city, but there's not much to do in this area after dark and it's almost 2 miles from Honky Tonk Highway.

Is it safe to walk in Nashville at night?

As long as you stick close to the more popular and well-lit areas of the city, you should be safe walking around Nashville after dark. That said, it is recommended to go out with friends or in groups to avoid any issues.

Is it easy to walk around downtown Nashville?

According to reviews of popular walking tours in this city, it is fairly easy to walk around downtown Nashville. There aren't many hilly areas to be concerned about, and most of the city is relatively flat.

The only issue you might want to consider is that some of the most popular attractions can sometimes be miles apart, and that could mean for a bit more walking than some travelers would be comfortable with.

What should I wear in downtown Nashville?

Anything you want! Nashville is a pretty laid back city, and while some will choose to dress in some more "western" attire (boots, cowboy hats, jeans), you might actually look out of place if you try too hard to fit in.

We get it, you're in the country music capital of the world, but most of the people you will see in those honky tonks don't look like Garth Brooks at a concert.

What is the easiest way to get around Nashville?

The most efficient way to get around in Nashville is to drive a car, so if you don't feel like using public transportation, you might want to consider services like Uber or Lyft.

While walking is an option, and Nashville is a pretty walkable city, you'll get around a lot quicker using either a car or rideshare service.

Choose a Destination... I want them all PLUS general travel tips. Amsterdam Berlin Boston Charleston Chicago Dubai Lisbon London Los Angeles Miami Nashville New York City New Orleans Paris Philadelphia Prague Rome San Francisco Washington DC

About The Author

Paul Whitten

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

Free Things to do in Nashville, Like 20+ Things

Are there free things to do in Nashville? Oh, yea! Plenty!! The Music City has free music, museums, parks, festivals, and even art galleries. But honestly, that only scratches the surface of all the cool free attractions that Nashville has to offer.

There are lots of free things to do in Nashville! There is also plenty of cheap things to do as well. Your visit to Nashville does not have to break the bank.

Here at Things In Nashville, we are going to give you the information you need to save you money while visiting the Music City.

1. Free Music on Lower Broadway

Honky tonk highway, parks in nashville, centennial park, love circle park, the bicentennial capitol mall state park, that’s not all of the parks, fort nashborough interpretive center, gaylord opryland hotel and convention center, nashville public library, tennessee state museum, cooter’s place museum, street art tour, music city walk of fame, ryman auditorium, john seigenthaler pedestrian bridge, headquarters beercade, game terminal, the rabbit hole vr, music valley, 9. free things to do in nashville with kids, farmers market, the parthenon, cheekwood gardens, frist art museum, 12. free nashville parking.

To visitors who visit Nashville, this is the #1 reason why people come here. So, Also known as “The District”, this area is the mecca for free live music! Both sides of Broadway , 2nd ave, and other alleys nooks, and crannies have live music. There is country music, pop, blues, bluegrass, and even rock.

You don’t even have to walk into the bars to enjoy the music. Simply walking down the sidewalk is like changing radio stations. There are often street performers playing instruments, tap dancing, and even the musicians that drum on buckets. They are awesome!! This is the most popular of the free things to do in Nashville.

What are some of the most popular places to enjoy free music on Lower Broadway In Nashville?

• Kid Rocks’s Big Honky Tonk & Steakhouse
• Robert’s Western World
• Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge
• Legends Corner
• AJ’s Good Time Bar (Alan Jackson)
• Dieks Bently Whiskey Row
• Luke Bryan’s 32 Bridge
• Ole Red (Blake Shelton’s Place)

Honestly, this is just a tiny drop in the bucket of free music that Nashville has to offer. I will build a dedicated page of the different districts to find free music to jam out to. Of all the free things to do in Nashville, this is the most popular for tourists.

2. Free Things to do at Night in Nashville

The First Saturday Art Crawl

This item on the free things to do in Nashville is for the people who love art. On the first Saturday of each month, many of Nashville’s most prestigious art galleries open their doors free admission. The Music City isn’t all about just music. There are fine art galleries all over the downtown area of Nashville ranging from the historic district such as “Arcade Alley” to Vanderbilt University. On this first Saturday, your art gallery hopping time is from 6pm to 9pm.

Be sure to check out the Frist Museum where they have art being displayed from established local and international artists. Their art displays rotate on a regular basis so check their website to see if what they have on display fits your tastes.

Yes .. I know I mentioned this above. But hey .. welcome to the Music City capital of the world! Walking down Lower Broadway during the day you will encounter lots of great music. At night .. the transformation happens! As the sun sets, The District is just starting to wake up! More clubs, more bars, and lots more people to chill and/or party with. Don’t forget about the rooftop bars! Honky Tonk Highway is the area that made Nashville known across the world.

Wanna know more? Click here to check out the article about rooftop bars .

Located right across the street from The District. Here you will find .. yep .. you guessed it .. more clubs, bars and lots of free music. Periodically, you will find an event going on behind the Hilton Inn at the Walk of Fame Park. In the park, they have several events scheduled throughout the year that could be added to the free things to do in Nashville list. I’ve been to several free concerts and festivals there. It is lots of fun!!

3. Free Nashville Parks

Of the free things to do in Nashville, the locals utilize the parks the most. As well they should because there are many great parks to enjoy. When I’m visiting downtown Nashville I usually take a stroll down Riverfront park and Cumberland Park . Both of these places give you a different visual perspective of this beautiful city.

Nashville’s premier park with its 132 acres of beautiful landscape, and Lake Watauga to take a romantic stroll around. Of all the free parks in Nashville, Centennial Park is one I visit the most. Call it my chillout happy place I guess. There are so many places where I will either chill with a book or I’ll have my Canon DSLR to take pictures of the flowers or ducks. Or, maybe a squirrel or two if the little critters will sit still long enough.

A little hidden gem is a place that only the locals know about. As the name implies you will find love-struck couples at the top of this hill all cozied up enjoying the awesome view of Nashville.

Love Circle is located right smack in the middle of a neighborhood on top of a big hill. The road going up to it kinda winds back and forth as you get to the top look to your left you will see Mount Richmore, the home of John Rich of the famous Big and Rich country music band.

This 11-acre park is just over the hill from the state capital building. Just across the street towards Rosa L Parks Blvd will be the Nashville Farmers Market and Tennessee State Museum.

I’ve been to this park many times to take a casual stroll with friends. There is so much to learn about Tennessee by simply walking the paths here.

How you ask? There is the Pathway of History that gives you tidbits of history about Tennessee. A 200-foot granite map of Tennessee, a WWII Memorial, and then the fountain garden known as the Rivers of Tennessee Fountains. Can’t forget about the 95-foot bell tower. Go check out one of the nicest parks that’s one of the free things to do in Nashville.

These parks mentioned are only a few of the parks that Nashville has to offer. I will later be writing a dedicated article to showcase these wonderful places.

4. Free Attractions

Fort Nashborough is a replica of the first settlement led by James Robertson in Nashville in the late 1700s. For a free self-guided tour go to the bank of the Cumberland River at the end of Lower Broadway then look left .. you will see it. Weather permitting it is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 am – 4 pm.

It is hard to believe that this is one of the free things to do in Nashville because this isn’t just another run-of-the-mill hotel. It is practically a little city inside of a hotel. There are about 20 restaurants and bars, plus shopping and places for entertainment. But .. so what .. many hotels have that. Come visit the huge awesome atriums and you will see why this place is such a big deal.

There are about 9 acres of atrium with live plants and walking paths. There is even a little river called the Delta that has a flat bottom boat. Yep, you sure can take a ride in the boat! After the boat ride, go check out the water fountain show.

One little caveat. The hotel parking is expensive. If you’re just going in to walk around and explore, park by the movie theater at Oprymills shopping mall, which is free. Walk across the street and follow the sidewalk that will lead you right into the hotel and then into the first atrium.

Wanna know more? Click here to check out this article about walking around the Opryland Hotel .

What about parking at the hotel? Click here to learn about free parking at the Opryland Hotel .

Located at 615 Church Street this one VERY nice library! There have been several times that I find myself a corner to chill while getting work done on my laptop.

The Nashville Library has free year-round events and classes for children and adults. Seasonal events and classes such as Courtyard Concerts, Festivals, Lego contests, and even puppet shows. I got lucky enough to accidentally catch one of the puppet shows once. It was fun. Yes, I’m still a kid at heart :-).

5. Free Nashville Museums

Located at 1000 Rosa L. Parks Blvd. The Tennessee State Museum has 137,000 sq. ft consisting of gallery space and administration offices. The gallery floor holds 13,000 years of Tennessee art and history. As you walk down the time tunnel you will encounter 6 permanent exhibitions, a hands-on children’s learning gallery, and a digital learning center.

Name one of the most popular TV shows ever!?! I would be referring to the Dukes of Hazzard. Take a drive to McGavock Pike, you can’t miss it. Usually, you will see Cooters tow truck outside and often General Lee as well. Go inside and see LOTS of show props, clothes (yes there is a pair of Daisy’s shorts .. well several actually), and lots of the history about the TV show. Also inside will be Daisy’s Jeep CJ and Rosco’s P Coletrain patrol car. If you were a Duke Boys fan, this is a must-see as one the free things to do in Nashville.

6. Free Sight-Seeing Tours

Nashville has so much GREAT street art! In fact, there are 39 Nashville murals created by local and international-renown artists. Street art in Nashville has exploded into a phenomenon. When people think of the “coolest Nashville murals”, the most popular one that comes to most people’s minds is the “Wings” or “What Lifts You Mural”. This mural is probably the most photographed mural in Nashville. You can purchase paid “riding” tours through various tour companies. But, you can make this one of the free things to do in Nashville as you visit each district and tour the murals while you are there.

This is a very popular item on the free things to do in the Nashville list. Check out the Music City Walk of Fame located at 121 4th Ave S known as the SoBro area just across the street from all the famous Nashville bars. The Music City Walk of Fame in Nashville’s tribute to all genres of music artists that have contributed to everyone’s love for music around the world!!

Most of the time there is a fee of about $26 for a self-guided tour. Yea yea .. I know that isn’t free as this portion of the article is supposed to be about but hear me out. There are times that the Ryman does allow the public to come in for free to check out the inside, I’ve done it a couple of times. Now, on these “free” days there is still a small fee to do the backstage tour. If you opt for the backstage tour, there are NO pictures allowed because everything in the back is protected! It is a great tour if you get the chance to do it. If you are a die-hard country music fan, whether you make this one of your free things to do in Nashville, or you have to pay for the tour. I do highly recommend it!

Wanna know more? Click here for the schedule of events for the Ryman .

Or also known as Shelby Street Pedestrian Bridge or at one time the Sparkman Street Bridge. Whatever name you decide to call the bridge there is one thing that can not be disputed, no matter where you stand on the bridge, the views of Nashville are awesome! There have been a few music videos created on and under this bridge.

I will create a free walking tour itinerary that will give you the best highlights of downtown Nashville. I’ll link it up here when it is ready.

7. Free Arcade

Whether you are young or young at heart, free games being one of the free things to do in Nashville is simply awesome!! Yes!! Free games!! We are talking old-school Pac-Man, Centipede, Galaga, Donkey Kong and so many more!! There are 2 floors of these retro old-school games. It is located just across the street from The District of downtown at 114 2nd Ave.

Wanna know more? Click here to check out HeadQuarters Beercade .

Come check out Nashville’s largest arcade with over 10,000 square feet of games, pinball, bars, lounge, and special rooms. Outside there are 8,000 square feet of covered patio area and outside games. Oh, they have food trucks on schedule very often. I can tell you firsthand that Nashville has some awesome food trucks!

Wanna know more? Click here to check out Game Terminal .

Above I mentioned old-school games and pinball. Here at The Rabbit Hole, they are new-school .. they go VR as in Virtual Reality gaming. Have a fun night out with your date or hang with the fellas or a ladies’ night out. Switch games as much as you like … play single or with friends. Either way, it will be a fun night out immersing in virtual reality.

Wanna know more? Click here to check out The Rabbit Hole VR .

8. Check out Popular Nashville Neighborhoods

Be it, locals or tourists, this is the most popular “neighborhood” in Nashville for the party crowd. This is where all the bars and clubs are located. Well, a particular part of downtown is better known as “The District” or “Lower Broadway” Also, many museums and a few of Nashville’s parks are located in this area. If you enjoy a variety of great music, just walking down the sidewalks is one of the best free things in Nashville you can do.

Just across the street from Lower Broadway is SoBro. There are even more bars, clubs, and museums, and a couple more of Nashville’s parks. There is also Ascend Ampitheater where the really big famous music acts put on some great shows.

The Gulch is home to some of the best restaurants in Nashville. No, I’m not just referring to high dolla suit and tie places. Well, The Gulch does have that as well. I was also referring to low-key but VERY cool places that include breweries, BBQ, hot chicken, famous old-school country meat and three, and biscuits .. yes I said biscuits. I’m referring to a little place called Biscuit Love. It is good, I’ve been there a few times.

This is where Centennial Park is located with the Parthenon right in the middle. West End not only has great scenery but there are also great eateries and small music venues as well.

Free things to do in Nashville in the Music Valley area. The Opryland Hotel has the atrium inside which is a great site to behold in itself. There are lots of unique shops to check out. You gotta eat eventually, the food isn’t free but if you go to Scoreboard bar and grill they have great food, free live music, and free games outside in the yard.

Wanna know more? Check out the article about the Music Valley area .

OK … I’m gonna be real with you here. My kids are grown and gone and have been for many years. They no longer even live in the same state as I do. Raising them as a single father, I DID NOT have the money to do the really cool things such as Disney World or vacations on the beach.

I would save up throughout the year for us to take a “cool” vacation and even then it was a budget-type vacation that rarely left the state of Tennessee. But nonetheless, we had a great time even though I was usually flat broke!!

So, again .. being real with you. When we visited Nashville we usually went to one of the parks to have a good time. Every so often we would go to the Adventure Science Center .. no it wasn’t free.

So what free things to do in Nashville are for kids? Well, I had to do some research to see what was available as of this writing. I found where adults paid to get in and the little ones got in for free. Places such as wine vineyards, country music museums, art museums, and other places like this.

To be honest .. my boys would have been bored out of their skulls with these places! This is called “kid-friendly” … NOT … Kid enjoyable!!! So, true FUN places for kids that are FREE … I haven’t found much as of yet.

Check out this article about Awesome things to do with kids .

Free Nashville Parks

So, here is what I can tell you right off the top of my head. There are great parks in Nashville that little ones would enjoy. During the hot summer months, Cumberland Park, which is within a short walking distance from Lower Broadway has a GREAT kid area that includes a climbing wall, very cool slides, a sort of an obstacle course, and even a small water park. See even the little ones get free things in Nashville perks!!

I’m still a kid at heart and I would have loved this as a child. Late at night, when all the little ones are at home asleep, I have a few times climbed the walls, slid down the slides, and checked out the neat little obstacle course … shh .. don’t tell anyone.

Then there is Centennial Park. This isn’t really a kid playground per se. But there are lots of squirrels, ducks, and geese that my boys used to enjoy. There is even a lake where the ducks and geese hang out. Occasionally they can see fish come to the surface. It is a great peaceful place to experience some nature in the middle of the big city of Nashville. This is one of my top places on the free things to do in Nashville to just sit back and chill or take a peaceful walk.

OK look, it is free to visit, it only costs you money if you buy something. I have on occasion just wandered around checking out the cool merch or chatting with the vendors or even a friendly stranger. In the middle of the Farmers Market is the food court. There is a wide variety to choose from and it is all GOOD!! For the kids, there is Jeni’s Ice Cream … just oh yea!!

I’ll be going to Nashville soon to talk to some people about this. If I find some more cool places I’ll drop in and edit this.

10. Cheap or almost free things to do in Nashville

I realize this post is titled “Free things to do in Nashville”, but staying with the saving money theme, I’ll add some cheap stuff as well. Cheap as in keeping the admission price below $20 per person. Don’t think that is cheap .. keep in mind there are places where the admission price is $50 or more. Just saying 🙂

This really cool attraction is located in Centennial Park which I mentioned above. It is a full-scale replica of the real Parthenon located in Athens Greece. Inside there are many pictures of the replica’s creation, and several sculptures relating to Greek Mythology. The most awesome attraction of all is the 42-foot tall sculpture of Athena. You really should check it out. I’ve been there several times, I enjoy it each and every time.

Wanna know more? Click here to check out the Partenon article .

This is a 55-acre botanical garden and art museum. There are at least 300,000 visitors (no that isn’t a typo) a year making this one of Nashville’s top attractions. Cheekwood has something for the whole family with year-round attractions. You should check out the Christmas attraction, it is amazing!!

Wanna know more? Click here to check out Cheekwood Gardens .

11. Adults pay but kids are free

Heads up! Some of the sculptures I’ve seen here will mess with your head!! Can you say .. optical illusion? The artwork on display at the Frist Museum rotates on a regular basis. So you can go back periodically to see something new. I’ve seen displays from the Civil War era, Mongolian, and even really cool cars.

Wanna know more? Click here to check out Frist Art Museums’ current display .

Yes, free Nashville Parking can be had at the right time and in the right place. In other areas at least the parking can get cheaper. You would never think that parking would be one of the free things to do in Nashville. But, it is possible!

Wanna know more? Click here to learn more about Downtown Nashville Parking .

Other articles of interest for anyone visiting Nashville

• Attractions
• Bars and Pubs
• Close to Nashville
• Nashville Fun Facts
• Nashville Murals
• Restaurants
• Things to Do
• Transportation and Parking

Awesome Nashville Live Music Not On Broadway

26 Best Nashville Tourist Attractions

• #1 Best Graceland Tour Package?
• Silo Mural in The Nations of West Nashville
• Nashville Luxury Hotels 10 Best Places to Stay
• VRBO Nashville Near Broadway – 7 Great Options
• Nashville Hotels Under $100, 9 Great Choices
• Best Nashville Bars for Bachelorette Parties
• ZooLumination #1 Biggest and Best In The US
• Opryland ICE is Nashville’s #1 Best Ice Show

I have lived near Nashville most of my life. I really enjoy exploring what the "Music City" has to offer so can help visitors and locals have a great time in Nashville.

Recent Posts

Nashville live music not on Broadway? Yep!! If you want to enjoy the sounds of great music in a much more relaxed atmosphere .. get away from Lower Broadway!!! Head on out to other great areas of...

There are many Nashville tourist attractions that can give anyone something to enjoy. If you are a country music fan you are definitely in for a treat. More the adventure type? There are lots of good...

• Free & Cheap Activities

Free & Cheap Things to Do in Nashville, TN

• The list below includes 125 free or cheap things to do in or near Nashville, Tennessee, including 64 different types of inexpensive activities like History Museums, Music Venue, Historic Sites and Art Museum.
• From Radnor Lake State Park to Opryland Hotel Gardens, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Nashville and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Franklin , Brentwood , Hendersonville and Smyrna .

Up to 27% Off Admissions to Patsy Cline Museum

Radnor lake state park, opryland hotel gardens, downtown nashville, centennial park, vanderbilt university, percy priest lake, rca studio b, fontanel mansion, the parthenon.

• Things To Do

How to Have an Amazing Time in Nashville Without Spending Any Money

Fun doesn’t have to cost a thing..

Updated on 11/16/2023 at 1:42 PM

With so many cool things to do in Nashville , you can run up quite a tab trying to cram them all in during a visit. Fortunately for you, however, Nashville is also filled with all sorts of cost-free activities ranging from music to art to history tours. Check out the options below any time you’re looking to spend some time without dipping into your savings.

Free Cultural Things to Do in Nashville

Free museums.

The massive Tennessee State Museum in Germantown is always free to explore. (Well, if you pay taxes in Tennessee, you did sorta pay for it, but just a tiny bit.) A combination of permanent and rotating exhibits shows off just a fraction of the museum’s amazing collection of Tennesseebilia, and it’s arranged thematically so you can always check out something new on multiple visits. The Governor’s Residence is another repository of state history that offers gratis tours by appointment on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The Frist Art Museum doesn’t have a regular schedule of “free museum days,” but they do happen occasionally. Follow their social media to find out when can visit courtesy of generous sponsors.

Hatch Show Print

Sobro If you’ve ever seen your favorite band advertising a show using those cool old-school letterpress posters, odds are it came from Hatch Show Print , the iconic print shop that started out making handbills for minstrel shows and circuses. They used to market themselves by saying, “advertising without posters is like fishin’ without worms,” and since 1879, Hatch has designed and created thousands of artistic prints. Now located in the same building as the Country Music Hall of Fame, you can watch them working through large windows and shop for souvenirs at their excellent gift shop. You can also take a tour, but that’ll cost you $22.

Gallery crawls

The First Saturday Art Crawl is the chance to drop into multiple galleries around downtown and visit artists at work. No RSVP or admission is required; just show up and bop from place to place while enjoying some of the city’s finest boxed wines. You might even find something to hang over your couch to replace that tapestry from college. The WeHo Art Crawl also takes place on first Saturdays and features a host of galleries, easily walkable within a few blocks of the hip Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood.

Station Inn

The Gulch If the Ryman Auditorium is “The Mother Church of Country Music,” the Station Inn in The Gulch is definitely the Tabernacle of Bluegrass, and the greatest pickers on the planet grace the stage nightly. Well, nightly except for Sundays, because that’s when the small club hosts a free weekly bluegrass jam. You’re welcome to just enjoy the old-timey music played the way it used to with musicians sitting in a circle of chairs calling out songs one at a time. Or bring your own guitar, fiddle, bass, mandolin, or dobro and join in the fun. Even if you only know a few chords, the musicians are always happy to welcome newbies into the bluegrass fraternity.

Downtown Presbyterian Church

Downtown Since 1814, Presbyterians have been worshiping at the corner of Fourth Avenue and Church Street, even before the streets had those names. The Downtown Presbyterian Church was designed in the mid-1800s by William Strickland, the same architect behind the Tennessee State Capitol. Egyptian archaeological finds were all the rage during that epoch, filling the pages of Western media, so the architect settled on an Egyptian Revival style for the new church. Sanctuary walls and stained glass windows depict scenes of Egyptian life, complete with palm trees in the decidedly non-tropical climes of Nashville, and the exterior features a winged sun disk and lotus columns. The overall effect is striking and a little mind-bending, and guests are welcome to take guided sanctuary tours at noon on the fourth Fridays of the month.

Downtown honky tonks

Not enough people appreciate the fact that Nashville’s downtown honky tonks don’t charge a cover and feature some of the most talented musicians on the planet playing in various venues up and down Broadway. They intentionally place the stages near the front door facing the back of the building so that you’ll have to enter to actually see the bands, and it’s appropriate to at least buy a drink at the bar if you’re going to listen to a whole set. That’s also why you can’t carry a drink from bar to bar, since you’re expected to consume the equivalent of a cover charge at each venue. But there’s no rule that says you can’t hop from club to club to experience the variety of music coursing through downtown. Just remember to always tip the band.

Free Outdoor Things to Do in Nashville

Mural walks.

You’ve probably seen one of the “ I Believe in Nashville ” murals on social media somewhere, and you might have even waited in line to get your photo with the angel wings in the Gulch, but Nashville has a lot more to offer in the way of public art in many different neighborhoods. Visit Music City has curated a list of murals and their locations by neighborhood to make it easy to map your own walking “art-inerary.”

Fort Negley

Wedgewood-Houston Fort Negley was the largest inland stone fort constructed during the Civil War, looming above downtown Nashville. Built by the Union as a symbol of conquest after the Battle of Nashville, it is now an outdoor park with walking paths ringing the ruins of the walls of the old fort. Take an easy lap for some of the best panoramas of downtown and then make a stop in the visitors’ center to check out interactive exhibits that share the history of the site.

Walk of Fame Park

Sobro Directly across the street from the Country Music Hall of Fame is Walk of Fame Park , a plaza filled with inlaid stars commemorating the contributors who put the music in Music City. From pioneers of country music like DeFord Bailey and Ernest Tubb to local modern-day rockers who keep the music pumping such as Kings of Leon and Jack White, a walk through the stars is like taking a trip through history. Other stars recognize unexpected Nashville connections like Jimi Hendrix who played jazz in local clubs with his first band, the King Kasuals while he was a soldier at nearby Ft. Campbell, and Little Richard who played R&B shows at many of those same clubs and spent the later portion of his life living in the Hilton on the other side of the park so he could overlook his star.

If the Great Outdoors is calling, opportunities for free trips into nature abound in Music City. A system of greenways offer protected paths for hiking and biking around the city in both urban and natural environments. The city is working to connect many of these paths, so you’ll have even longer routes to travel in the future. Percy Warner and Edwin Warner were two brothers who got back at the bullies who probably taunted their names in the late 1800s by donating the land for two massive parks in West Nashville, contributing more than 2500 acres of green space filled with miles of trails for hikers and mountain bikers along with equestrian paths for the horsey set.

Radnor Lake State Park features almost eight miles of different trails ringing the peaceful suburban lake, but check the trail map before you set off on a hike, because some of them are much more strenuous than others.

Scarritt Bennett Center labyrinth

Music Row Since medieval times, persons seeking a little inner peace have taken walks in or on labyrinths where the winding trails are meant to track the progression of life and where you might meet someone on a different path along the way. At Scarritt Bennett Center , a seven-circuit path winds its way around a tranquil courtyard that is the perfect place to clear your cluttered mind.

The Parthenon

Centennial Park Originally constructed out of plaster to commemorate Tennessee’s Centennial in 1897 and to recognize Nashville’s place as “The Athens of the South,” this full-scale model of the historic Parthenon was reconstructed out of sturdier materials in the 1920s. The centerpiece of Centennial Park, Nashville’s Parthenon is an amazing replica of the Greek temple, and some might even say ours is better because it still has a roof. It’s free to visit the outside of the building, but you’ll have to pay a nominal charge to enter the hall to see the 42-foot-tall statue of Athena, the patron goddess of ancient Athens.

Gaylord Opryland Resort

Donelson The Gaylord Opryland Resort is a sprawling hotel and convention center off of Briley Parkway in Donelson. Divided into several pavilions, the resort offers more than nine acres of open space under glass roofs. Lush landscaping lines walking paths, and an indoor river runs through the complex. Guests are welcome to wander the grounds even if they’re not staying at the property. They really do it up for the holidays with millions of twinkling lights installed all over the grounds, indoors and out. Park at the adjacent Opry Mills mall and walk over to save on the steep parking fee.

John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

Cumberland Park If you were a fan of the ABC nighttime soap “Nashville,” you probably recognize the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge as the spot where the fictional characters on the show always seemed to meet to cheat on their spouses or discuss conspiracies. In truth, we locals use the bridge mainly as the easiest path to Nissan Stadium on the East Bank of the Cumberland River for Titans games or concerts. However, the sweeping view of the downtown skyline from the top of the bridge is striking, especially at night when the neon rainbow of Lower Broad reflects off the river. There’s not much of a need to go all the way across the bridge at night, though, unless you’re a fan of big empty parking lots.

Downtown walks

Nashvillesites.org offers a wide variety of itineraries for free self-guided walking tours around Nashville, organized by neighborhood or by theme and narrated by local history experts. Lace up your walking boots and discover the city’s key role in the struggle for civil rights or the history of how Tennessee put the 19th amendment over the top to ratification, making women’s suffrage the law of the land. Other available tours share the seedy side of Printers’ Alley and various supposedly haunted sites around downtown. Of course, music is the centerpiece of several tour options while others highlight the city’s architectural marvels.

Want more Thrillist? Follow us on Instagram , TikTok , Twitter , Facebook , Pinterest , and YouTube .

The Top 12 Free Things To Do In Nashville

The capital of Tennessee, Nashville is a city with no shortage of things to do. Often known as Music City because of its historic links with country and other forms of music, Nashville is a cultural hub of the South and a great destination for anyone that loves to explore music and other performing arts.

With so much to do, it's easy to spend more money than you mean to. Nashville has so many attractions to see that keeping to a budget can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are also plenty of free things to do in Nashville that will help keep costs down. Whether you want to enjoy live music, experience some of the best hikes in Nashville , or visit some of the city's fascinating museums, you can do it all without spending a penny.

To make things easier on yourself, make sure you drop off your unneeded bags at a Bounce luggage storage in Nashville before you go exploring. Traveling light will make it easier to navigate the city so you can focus on having fun.

The best free things to do in Nashville

Tennessee state capitol.

Located in Nashville, the Tennessee State Capitol is one of the city's most impressive buildings. The rich history of the state is very much on evidence here, and the capitol contains the tomb of James Polk, the 11th president of the United States. The building predates the Civil War, and remains the place where Tennessee's laws are made to this day. You can visit the capitol on a free guided tour that will explain the history and importance of this building and give you a deep insight into the story of Tennessee. This walking tour will take you through the building itself and around the grounds, so you'll get to see a lot in a short amount of time.

Free concerts

Of course, one of the best things to do in Music City is catch some live music. And if country music is your thing, you'll have no trouble finding it. Downtown Nashville is packed with bars and concert halls where you can see local and touring artists perform, and often, all it will cost you is the price of a beer or a coffee.

Additionally, the city holds several no-charge concerts where you can enjoy free music. Check out Musicians Corner , a free music festival held right through the summer in Centennial Park. With music, food, an artisan market, and a fun kid zone, it's not only one of the best free things to do in the city, it's also one of the best things to do with kids in Nashville .

There's more on offer than country music, too. Fans of classical music will be glad to know that the Nashville Symphony Orchestra holds free summer concerts in various locations around the city. Check out their website to see the schedule.

Centennial Park

Centennial Park is one of Nashville's best and most beloved public parks. The park hosts many events through the year, including Musicians Corner and some of the Nashville Symphony's free concerts. But the park is also a great place to visit all by itself. For one thing, it's home to Nashville's iconic Parthenon, a replica of the ancient Greek original. The park also has a one-mile walking trail, a bandshell, a lake, and a kids' play area. The grassy lawns are the perfect place to take a break in the Tennessee sunshine and enjoy the tranquility and fresh air of this deservedly popular park.

Music City Walk of Fame

Celebrate iconic performers on the Music City Walk of Fame. Located on Nashville's Music Mile close to the Country Music Hall of Fame , this walk celebrates the careers of icons like Dolly Parton, Elvis Presley, Keith Urban , and others. Get your photo taken next to a tribute to your favorite artists, and enjoy the many street performers that entertain the crowds here, many of them hoping that one day, it'll be their name engraved on a plaque at this legendary spot.

Frist Art Museum

If you're looking to explore a different kind of art in Nashville, the Frist Art Museum is the place to go. Run by a nonprofit organization, this museum does not have a permanent collection, but instead hosts an ever-changing range of exhibitions from around the country and around the world. As a result, you never know exactly what you're going to see here, whether it's priceless paintings from the Renaissance or the latest cutting-edge art installations. But whatever the museum has when you choose to visit, it's bound to be a fascinating encounter with the art world.

Visiting the Frist cost $15 for adults. However, it's completely free for anyone under 18. It's also free for students with valid identification, so it can be a very affordable way to spend some time in Nashville. Plus, the gallery is home to Martin ArtQuest , an interactive creativity space that makes another fantastic thing for kids to do in Nashville.

Nashville Farmers Market

Nashville Farmers Market runs throughout the year, and is the perfect place to explore the city's culinary scene. You'll be able to see the best produce and foods from around Tennessee and get a sense of local delicacies. There are also often food trucks and musicians performing in and around the farmers market, making it a fun and lively place to explore. And you don't have to buy anything to enjoy the atmosphere. Just wandering through the stalls and seeing what's in season can be a fun adventure. And if you do decide to buy anything, at least you'll know that you're helping support local independent farmers and merchants.

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

Another of Nashville's impressive green spaces, Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park covers 19 acres. It holds a 2000 seat amphitheater where you can catch musical and theater performances in the summer, and it offers an impressive view of the Tennessee Capitol and the Nashville skyline.

The park is also great place to get in touch with the city's history. It houses a World War II memorial, the Pathway of History, and an impressive 200 foot map of the state made out of granite. As a result, it's a great place to wander and while away a few hours in a unique part of the city.

Tennessee State Museum

For more background on Tennessee's history, don't miss the Tennessee State Museum. This is the best place to learn more about the forces that have shaped the history and culture of the state, and the contributions Tennessee has made to the country and the world. You'll learn about the state's pioneer origins, Tennessee's role in the Civil War, the history of immigration to the state, and the civil rights struggle, among other topics. Best of all, Tennessee State Museum offers free entry to anyone who shows up. You could easily spend an afternoon or more enjoying the exhibits in this impressive museum, and with free admission, there's really no reason not to go.

Warner Parks

The two parks that make up Nashville's Warner Parks, Percy and Edwin, are the ideal place to experience the natural side of Tennessee without straying too far from the city. These parks offer lots of hiking trails, including the popular Mossy Ridge Trail which provides a surprising challenge for an urban park. As you hike the four-and-a-half-mile loop of the trail, it's easy to forget that there is a huge city nearby. Instead, you'll feel as if you're deep in the heart of the Tennessee backcountry, making this a fantastic place not only to get some exercise but to recharge your batteries away from the hustle and bustle of Music City.

Nashville Public Library

Many people don't consider visiting a town's library while on vacation. But Nashville Public Library is housed in a beautiful building that is worth seeing for its architecture alone. Plus, the library often hosts free programs for kids and adults, so it's worth checking in to see if there's anything that appeals to you going on while you're there.

This is also one of those areas where it pays to know a local. If you know somebody with a Nashville library card, they can check out a Community Counts Passport, which will give you free admission to one of Nashville's top attractions, the Country Music Hall of Fame. But even if you don't have that option, the library is still worth visiting for everything else it has to offer.

Fort Negley

As a Southern state, Tennessee was very often on the front lines of fighting during the American Civil War. During the war, Union troops constructed Fort Negly after the capture of Nashville to defend the territory they had taken. Following the war, the fort fell into disrepair, and was used for a while as a meeting place for the Ku Klux Klan. However, the site the fort occupied is now a public park, and the ruins of the fort have been preserved, making it a great place to wander and experience the history of Tennessee firsthand. Self-guided walking tours let you explore the area around the fort at your own pace, and you'll learn more about Tennessee's role in the Civil War and the way that bloody conflict shaped the state just as it shaped the history of the entire country.

The grounds of the fort are also home to the Adventure Science Center which, although not free, is a fun place to visit while you're in Tennessee, especially for kids. So whether you're into history or science, Fort Negley is definitely worth a visit.

Cooter's Place

Although it went off the air decades ago, famed TV show the Dukes of Hazzard is still fondly remembered by fans. At this quirky Nashville attraction, you can see props and costumes from the cult favorite, including some of the cars used in the series. It's a must visit for fans of the show while in Nashville, and even people who are less familiar with the program will get a better understanding of why the show has such enduring appeal. Admission is always free, and it's a good way to kill an hour or so in Nashville without spending anything.

With so much to do in the city, visiting Nashville can be an expensive proposition. After all, many of the city's top attractions charge hefty admission fees. Add in the price of eating and drinking in this major city, and you'll quickly find yourself wondering where your budget went.

Luckily, you can offset some of the cost of a trip to Nashville with these free attractions. Visiting some of these places can help stretch your budget further and make sure you can have fun without breaking the bank. And of course, it's always easier to explore a new city when you're not carrying more than you need to. Don't forget to drop off your unneeded bags at a Bounce luggage storage so you're free to explore these low-cost attractions.

Explore the world

Love discounts and traveling?

Sign up for our newsletter to get insider travel tips and a 10% discount delivered straight to your inbox.

No spam here, just the good stuff.

Get the Bounce app

Instantly find locations nearby to drop off your luggage wherever you go.

48 Things To Do In Nashville

• InTown Suites

As you might expect, many visitors come to Nashville for musical events and performances. It is nicknamed Music City, after all, but music is just the start of the wonderful things to see and do in Nashville. From a life-size Greek replica to the most famous distillery in the world, Nashville has a little bit of everything.

How did Nashville get its nickname “Music City”? While many attribute it to the explosive popularity of the Grand Ole Opry in the 1920s, it was actually 50 years earlier. In 1871, Fisk University formed a choral group called the Fisk Jubilee Singers which began touring the country and performing in an effort to raise money for the university. The group’s popularity quickly grew, and they began performing for many famous audiences like President Ulysses S. Grant and Mark Twain. The Fisk Jubilee Singers performed old slave songs passed down from their ancestors, an act that not only put Nashville on the map musically but also helped to break down racial boundaries after the Civil War. It is said that Queen Victoria heard tell of the group of singers and traveled across the Big Pond to see them perform. She was so impressed with the group, she said they must be from a ‘city of music.’

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or need to spend an extended amount of time in Music City, you are sure to stay entertained. Nashville’s rich history comes to life through art, museums and music, and the vibrant culture of the city is found in its people and places. To be sure you and your family discover the fun stuffed into every crack and crevice of the city, we’ve broken down the best of Nashville. From exploring the Musical Mile to cheering on the Tennessee Titans and running the Rock ‘N Roll marathon, here are the top 48 things to do in Nashville.

FREE Things To Do In Nashville Family Things To Do In Nashville Best Attractions In Nashville – Staff Picks Best Hotels In Nashville

FREE Things To Do In Nashville

Most popular city destinations can really empty out your wallet with overpriced souvenirs, steep ticket costs and ridiculous parking fees. If you’re looking to explore Nashville on a budget, we’ve got you covered! We’ve put together a list of our favorite FREE things to do in Nashville.

1| Tennessee State Museum

1000 rosa l parks boulevard.

History buffs will love a visit to the Tennessee State Museum . Permanent and temporary exhibits take visitors through Tennessee’s evolving history using artifacts like artwork, furniture, photographs, weapons, documents and textiles. Admission into the museum is always FREE and grants visitors full access to the 137,000-square-foot facility. The Tennessee State Museum is open Tuesday – Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m.

2| Music City Walk of Fame

Demonbreun street (between 4th & 5th avenues).

Music lovers will adore Nashville’s Walk of Fame as it marks famous and legendary artists and prominent industry professionals with stars on its path. A variety of genres are represented with musicians like Keith Urban, Jack White, Jimi Hendrix and Dolly Parton. Each block along the path represents an individual with a strong connection to Music City. The Walk of Fame is located at the base of the Music Mile, across from the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum in downtown Nashville. The park is always open and always FREE . Induction ceremonies are also FREE and open to the public.

3| Picnic or Hike A Park

There is nothing like getting outside to enjoy the fresh crisp air, especially when you’re visiting Nashville. There are a number of beautiful parks in Nashville, some adorned with art and others perfect for hiking, but these are three of our favorites. All are FREE !

Fannie Mae Dees Park | 2400 Blakemore Avenue

Fannie Mae Dees Park is a beautiful park with plenty of shade and decked out in local installation art. One of its most popular pieces of art ー and a great spot for a photo op ー is the mosaic dragon, titled “Sea Serpent,” that weaves in and out of the ground. It was created by Pedro Silva in 1980 with the help of over 1,000 local artists and volunteers. Fannie Mae Dees Park is FREE to the public, open from sunrise until 11 PM and features playgrounds for all abilities, picnicking areas, tennis courts and soccer fields.

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park | 600 James Robertson Parkway

Another FREE park to visit in Nashville is the Bicentennial Capitol Mall Park , located across the street from the Tennessee State Museum. The 11-acre park houses several monuments and walkways depicting the history and heritage of Tennessee, plus a 2,000-seat amphitheater, visitor center and gift shop. Bicentennial Capitol Mall Park is open from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The visitor center and gift shop are open weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Centennial Park | 2500 West End Avenue

Centennial Park is 132-acres of lush foliage and green spaces, housing two art museums, a sports complex, walking and exercise trails, a dog park, sports fields and more. Festivals and events are held at the park annually, and there’s a stunning sunken garden that can be explored year-round. The Centennial Art Center Gallery, located in the park, offers FREE tours to the public Monday – Friday from 9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. The park is open from dawn until 11:00 p.m. daily and is always FREE to the public for exploration.

4| The Nashville Flea Market

401 wingrove street (next to the fairgrounds).

If you enjoy bargain shopping, you’ll love the outdoor Nashville Flea Market . Explore hundreds of vendors selling everything from antiques and hand-crafted goods to artisan foods and yard art! For more than a century, dealers and vendors from over 30 states have gathered monthly for the event, welcoming nearly half a million visitors annually. The Nashville Flea Market is open the fourth weekend of every month (except for December, when the event is moved to the third weekend). The market is always FREE to visitors.

5| Self-Guided Tour of Downtown Nashville

Explore downtown Nashville without having to pay a dime for a guide! This FREE self-guided tour takes explorers to 18 historical and legendary locations around downtown. Another fun way to explore the city is by downloading the GPSMyCity app (available for iPhones and iPads). The app is FREE to download and contains thousands of self-guided tours and travel articles to make planning your activities and exploring the city as simple as 1-2-3.

6| Nashville Farmers Market

900 rosa l. parks boulevard.

The establishment of the Nashville Farmers Market dates back to the early 1800s. Today, the market is a part of daily life in downtown Nashville, housed in two covered open-air sheds. Visitors to the market will discover local produce, a garden center, dozens of food vendors, handmade crafts and locally-baked sweets. There are also monthly workshops and cooking demonstrations. The Nashville Farmers Market offers FREE parking and is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

7| FREE Music on Honky Tonk Highway

Lower broadway (from the bridgestone arena to 1st avenue).

For 17 hours a day, FREE live music can be found on Honky Tonk Highway . A honky tonk, by definition, is an establishment that contains at least one stage, serves cold drinks and hosts an all-day party every day. Nashville’s Honky Tonk Highway is lined with hundreds of these bars and clubs. It’s a music lover’s paradise! There is no cover charge at these establishments, but we do recommend that you leave a tip for the musician ー that’s how they make their money. A few tips for making the most of your time on Honky Tonk Highway:

• Check the side streets. Most of the honky tonks are found on the main strip, but there are a few notable spots just off Broadway.
• Use the back entrance. If the front door is too crowded, check to see if the bar has an alley entrance.
• Don’t forget the second floor. If the first floor is too crowded, try the second floor. Many honky tonks have two floors of live music.
• Be aware of the Barnes Dance. All of the intersections on Honky Tonk Highway have diagonal crossings meaning when vehicular traffic is stopped, pedestrians have the freedom to cross the intersection in any direction.
• Visit during the day. Honky tonks start jamming at 10:00 a.m., and the crowds are much thinner during the daytime.
• Pace yourself. Remember, honky tonks are open until 3:00 a.m. Take your time having a good time.

8| John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

Parking at 2 victory avenue or 134 2nd avenue s.

While the bridge has had many names and held many functions over the years, it has survived the test of time due to its unique structure and historical significance. The bridge originally opened in 1909 as the Sparkman Street Bridge and served as a highway connecting Sparkman Street and Shelby Avenue. Spanning 3,150 feet, the bridge was the first in North America to feature concrete arched trusses. Over the years, the bridge became known as the Shelby Street Bridge and went through several rounds of repairs.

In 1998 the bridge was closed to vehicular traffic and originally planned to be demolished, but due to its architectural, aesthetic and historical significance, the Shelby Street Bridge was saved. That same year, the bridge was admitted to the National Register of Historic Places and refurbished into a pedestrian bridge, one of the longest in the world. Renovations to the bridge included adding an elevator, ramps, and stairways. There is a 15-foot bike lane running through the middle with a 10-foot raised walkway on either side for pedestrians. At night, the bridge’s arches are dramatically lit. In 2014, the bridge was renamed the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge in honor of journalist and civil rights advocate John Seigenthaler. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the bridge for strolling, exercising and photo-taking every day for FREE .

9| Cooter’s Place

2613 mcgavock pike.

If you love The Dukes of Hazzard, be sure to plan a visit to Cooter’s Place during your time in Nashville. This FREE museum and gift shop was created by Ben Jones, the actor who played Cooter in the long-running American television series, and features memorabilia, pictures, props and costumes from the show. You’ll see several cars including Cooter’s tow truck, Daisy’s Jeep and Rosco’s patrol car. You can even have your photo taken in the driver seat of General Lee, the iconic 1969 Dodge Charger from the show.

Need help getting around Music City now that we’ve given you so many great FREE things to do? Check out Nashville’s Public Transportation . Some routes are FREE , but the others cost just a few dollars for a day pass.

Fun Family Things To Do In Nashville

If you plan on visiting Nashville with the kids, you may be looking for more family-oriented attractions to enjoy. Don’t worry. We’ve roamed the city and found the most fun family things to do in Nashville. From hands-on learning to museums and live music, you and your family are sure to enjoy your time in the Country Music Capital of the World.

1| Learn and Play at Adventure Science Center

800 fort negley boulevard | 615-862-5160.

The Adventure Science Center is fun for all ages and combines hands-on learning with almost every branch of science you can think of! This family-friendly adventure totals over 44,000-square-feet and features over 175 exhibits including a full-motion simulator, a magical mirror that reveals your very own skeletal system, a plasma globe and a large-scale tsunami simulator that puts you in control of the wave. Guests to the science center can also enjoy the Sudekum Planetarium (a 63-foot, state-of-the-art dome theater) and special events throughout the year. General Admission is $14 for children ages 2-12 and $18 for adults.

2| Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is the best – and we’re not lion!

3777 nolensville pike | 615-833-1534.

The Nashville Zoo is home to nearly 3,000 animals representing over 350 different species. Commonly known creatures include kangaroos, porcupines, cougars, seahorses, stingrays, tortoises, snakes, flamingos and tarantulas. A few lesser-known animals found at the Nashville Zoo include tapirs, cotton-top tamarins, southern pudus, bluehead wrasses, galliwasps, maleos and hellbenders. While there are hundreds of animal exhibits to enjoy, the Nashville Zoo has even more family fun to offer. There’s a 66,000 square feet playground, zipline, historic home and even a train on the property! So shake a tail feather and make Nashville Zoo a must-stop while on vacation.

3| Travel back in time at The Hermitage.

4580 rachel’s lane | 615-889-2941.

The Hermitage is the historic home of Andrew Jackson, a beautifully preserved mansion located on more than 1,000 acres. Using exhibits, informative panels and archaeological artifacts, the museum gives visitors a chance to experience what it was like in the 1800s. You’ll see the original belongings of the Jackson family and have a chance to explore the mansion and the grounds where President Jackson lived, worked and entertained. Guests have several options for experiencing this piece of history , from a basic Grounds Pass ($18 for adults and $11 for kids ages 5-12) to the ultimate VIP Tour ($50 per person). Read more about the history of The Hermitage and the tours available.

If you are looking for even more history fun , check out the Historic Travellers Rest , home of Judge John Overton, located at 636 Farrell Parkway in Nashville.

4| Your kids’ joy will be music to your ears!

While not every venue in Nashville is family-friendly, many of them are depending on the age of your kids. From country and rock to classical and blues, Nashville offers a little bit of every style of music. Here are a few places to check out live entertainment with the family:

• Schermerhorn Symphony Center : home of the Nashville Symphony, check the event calendar for which kid-friendly performances are scheduled during your stay
• Ryman Auditorium : known as the “Carnegie of the South” and former home of the Grand Ole Opry, historical music hall whose past performers include Charlie Chaplin, Bob Hope, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, B.B. King, Bruce Springsteen, Willi Nelson and thousands more
• Wildhorse Saloon : offers live music and line dancing lessons 4 days a week (Wednesday – Saturday)
• The Bluebird Cafe : famous singer-songwriter venue with live music 7 days a week, reservations must be made 1 week prior
• The Grand Ole Opry : longest-running live radio performance in America with eight or more artists performing at each show

5| Take a trip to Greece without leaving Nashville

2500 west end avenue | 615-862-8431.

Located in the famous Centennial Park in downtown Nashville, The Parthenon is a life-size replica of the original found in Greece and serves as Nashville’s Museum of Art. Visitors have the chance to see Athena Parthenos, another full-scale replica created to mimic the one found in Greece, along with a huge collection of contemporary and historical art and artifacts depicting the rich culture of Nashville. General Admissions is $10 for adults and $8 for kids and seniors. Guided tours are also available. You and your family may visit the museum and gift shop Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m.to 4:30 p.m. or Sunday from 12:30 – 4:30 p.m.

6| Cheer for the home team!

Bridgestone arena: 501 broadway | 615-770-2000 nissan stadium: 1 titans way | 615-565-4300.

Nashville is home to two major sports teams: the NFL’s Tennessee Titans and the NHL’s Nashville Predators . Join in the excitement of cheering on the home team at the next live sporting event. Whether you attend a Predators game at the Bridgestone Arena or join the Titans community for a football showdown at the Nissan Stadium , you and your family are sure to have a blast!

7| Play a game…or two!

One of the best ways to explore the city, learn about its history and have bucket loads of fun is taking part in a city scavenger hunt by Urban Adventure Request . You’ll start at the Country Music Hall of Fame then head out to discover the most iconic sights and lesser-known landmarks around the city. The hunt includes 17 challenges and takes around 3 hours to complete.

If you’re looking to solve a good mystery but the weather isn’t suitable for outdoor adventures, try one of Nashville’s escape rooms. The Escape Game has three locations in town and offers 8 escape games. Escape Experience is located in downtown Nashville, offers 3 escape games and even has virtual escapes games available.

8| Explore the museums of Nashville.

Nashville is filled with fun and interesting museums. You and your family are sure to find one or two or maybe three that fit your interests. Here’s a list of the most popular museums in and around Nashville:

• Country Music Hall of Fame : tickets are $27.95 for adults and $17.95 for kids; open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; tickets for this museum may be combined with tickets for the Historic RCA Stud io B (open daily from 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.) and Hatch Show Prin t (open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.)
• National Corvette Museum : tickets are $15 for adults, $13 for seniors (62+) and $10 for kids (ages 5-12); active military receives free admission; open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (except Nov 1st – Mar 1st, the museum opens at 10:00 a.m. on weekdays)
• Johnny Cash Museum : tickets are $22.95 for adults and $18.95 for kids (ages 6-15); $1 discount provided to AAA members, active military, seniors and college students; open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• The GIG (Gallery of Iconic Guitars) at Belmont : tickets are $5 for adults and free for kids (ages 12 and younger); Belmont University students and staff also receive free admission; closed until further notice (for safety precautions)
• The George Jones Museum : tickets are $17 for adults, $12 for seniors, college students, AAA and military members and $7 for kids (ages 6-15); open Thursday – Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• The Glen Campbell Museum : tickets are $19.50 for adults, $18.50 for seniors (61+) and active military and $17 for kids (ages 6-17); open Tuesday – Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame : tickets are $3 for adults and $2 for kids; open Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.; located inside the Bridgestone Arena
• The Patsy Cline Museum : tickets are $19.95 for adults and $15.95 for kids (ages 6-15); $1 discount provided to AAA members, active military, seniors and college students; open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• Tennessee Agricultural Museum : admission is free; open Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

9| Enjoy the beautiful Nashville outdoors!

Nashville is filled with green spaces galore, but one of the most beautiful has to be Cheekwood Estate & Gardens . Cheekwood is home to nearly 20 gardens, a historic home and museum, a learning center and a 1.5-mile wooded path filled with unique sculptures. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is typically open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., but during the holiday season, the gardens have extended hours from 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. to view the light displays on the property. Tickets for the botanical gardens start at $20 for adults and $13 for kids (ages 3-17).

While not nearly as large as the gardens at Cheekwood, here are a few other beautiful gardens in Nashville for you and your family to enjoy: Belle Meade Plantation , Belmont Mansion Gardens and the White House Arboretum .

10| Check out the art scene.

Beyond the beautiful music that comes out of Nashville, there is also an extensive amount of incredible art. From galleries to art institutes and performing art studios, Nashville is sure to “wow” you with heaps of creativity. Find inspiration at galleries and studios like these:

• Frist Art Museum : tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors (65+) and college students, $8 for active military and free for kids (age 18 and younger); open Thursday–Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. and Sunday from 1:00 to 5:30 p.m.
• Hatch Show Print’s Haley Gallery : tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for kids; open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• OZ Arts : ticket prices and times vary by show, check the website for upcoming presentations

The best way to enjoy Nashville’s art scene, while staying on a budget, is by attending an Art Crawl. Find full details below!

Best Attractions In Nashville – Staff Picks

There’s no shortage of fun in Nashville with all the family-friendly attractions and free things to do, but we wanted to know what the locals have to say. Turning to the staff members at our five extended-stay locations in the area, we asked them what they thought were the best attractions in Nashville. Here are their picks:

1| First Saturday Art Crawl

On the first Saturday of every month, art galleries around the city open their doors for the Art Crawl. This event is free to attend, and each gallery offers its own unique presentation. You’ll find light refreshments at most locations plus live music and art demonstrations at select galleries. Be sure to check the website for this month’s participating galleries.

2| St. Jude Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Nashville

While you might have run a marathon or 5K race in the past, you have never run a race quite like this one. In true Music City style, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series is filled with live music and iconic Nashville landmarks. Beyond the all-day music you’ll pass on Honky Tonk Highway, the course features 20 stages of live entertainment from starting line to finish line. Participants have the option of a full, half or quarter marathon, a 5K, 1 mile and kids run. The 2021 race will take place November 18th – 20th. The 2022 race is being held April 23rd – 24th. Registration is open for both events!

3| Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival

The Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival is a celebration of Japanese culture and heritage. Located in the Nashville Public Square, the event features food trucks, live entertainment, cosplay costume contests, kids activities and more. The highlight of the event is enjoying the Japanese cherry trees that bloom each spring. You will find over 1,000 of these trees around Nashville, mostly along the Cumberland River Greenway, a 2.5-mile course called The Cherry Blossom Walk. The annual event returns in Spring 2022.

4| Record Store Day

Record Store Day started in 2007 as a way to raise awareness about the nearly 1400 independently owned record stores in the US. Over the years, the event has spread across the country and around the world as a day to celebrate artists, their music and the stores that proudly sell their sounds. The day has become a gathering of sorts, making record stores a place where music-creators and music-lovers can meet and enjoy their favorite pastime. While the official Record Store Day is only once a year, the organization has created other music-focused events that take place throughout the year including RSD Black Friday and Summer Camp. Here’s a list of independently owned record stores that participate in the event in Nashville.

5| Live Music

We couldn’t complete our list of things to do in Nashville without touching on the thousands of live music performances that take place in Nashville each year. From the Grand Ole Opry to small stages in rundown bars, talent is heard on every corner. As large concerts and in-person events are returning, we wanted to peak your excitement for a few big names coming to Nashville in 2022 .

• Dwight Yoakam @ Ryman Auditorium – January 19-21
• Kacey Musgraves @ Bridgestone Arena – February 11
• Dierks Bentley @ Bridgestone Arena – February 25
• Billie Eilish @ Bridgestone Arena – March 9
• Tones and I @ Brooklyn Bowl – March 19
• Lorde @ Grand Ole Opry House – March 3
• John Mayer @ Bridgestone Arena – April 13
• Chris Tomlin @ Bridgestone Arena – April 15
• Justin Bieber @ Bridgestone Arena – May 17
• Kenny Chesney @ Nissan Stadium – May 28
• Matchbox Twenty @ Bridgestone Arena – June 26
• 5 Seconds of Summer @ Ascend Amphitheater – June 30
• Rod Stewart @ ®Bridgestone Arena – July 5
• Red Hot Chili Peppers @ Nissan Stadium – August 12
• Goo Goo Dolls @ Ascend Amphitheater – August 27
• The Killers @ Bridgestone Arena – September 17
• Alicia Keys @ Ascend Amphitheater – September 24
• Elton John @ Nissan Stadium – October 2
• Shawn Mendes @ Bridgestone Arena – October 19

Best Hotels In Nashville

No matter when you are planning your next vacation to Nashville and no matter for how long, InTown Suites has a room for you! Our apartment-style suites are fully furnished and feature full in-room kitchens, living and dining areas, plenty of storage and comfort and HDTVs with premium channels including SHOWTIME®. Each property has free on-site parking, guest laundry facilities and high-speed wireless internet.

What are you waiting for? Book your Nashville vacation today!

Affordable Weekly Rates In Nashville

4580 rachel's lane | 615-889-2941, 4| your kids' joy will be music to your ears.

• Wildhorse Saloon : offers live music and line dancing lessons 4 days a week (Wednesday - Saturday)

7| Play a game...or two!

• Country Music Hall of Fame : tickets are $27.95 for adults and $17.95 for kids; open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; tickets for this museum may be combined with tickets for the Historic RCA Stud io B (open daily from 10:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.) and Hatch Show Prin t (open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.)
• National Corvette Museum : tickets are $15 for adults, $13 for seniors (62+) and $10 for kids (ages 5-12); active military receives free admission; open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (except Nov 1st - Mar 1st, the museum opens at 10:00 a.m. on weekdays)
• The George Jones Museum : tickets are $17 for adults, $12 for seniors, college students, AAA and military members and $7 for kids (ages 6-15); open Thursday - Sunday 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
• The Glen Campbell Museum : tickets are $19.50 for adults, $18.50 for seniors (61+) and active military and $17 for kids (ages 6-17); open Tuesday - Sunday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame : tickets are $3 for adults and $2 for kids; open Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; located inside the Bridgestone Arena
• Tennessee Agricultural Museum : admission is free; open Monday - Friday 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Best Attractions In Nashville - Staff Picks

• Kacey Musgraves @ Bridgestone Arena - February 11
• Dierks Bentley @ Bridgestone Arena - February 25
• Billie Eilish @ Bridgestone Arena - March 9
• Tones and I @ Brooklyn Bowl - March 19
• Lorde @ Grand Ole Opry House - March 3
• John Mayer @ Bridgestone Arena - April 13
• Chris Tomlin @ Bridgestone Arena - April 15
• Justin Bieber @ Bridgestone Arena - May 17
• Kenny Chesney @ Nissan Stadium - May 28
• Matchbox Twenty @ Bridgestone Arena - June 26
• 5 Seconds of Summer @ Ascend Amphitheater - June 30
• Rod Stewart @ ®Bridgestone Arena - July 5
• Red Hot Chili Peppers @ Nissan Stadium - August 12
• Goo Goo Dolls @ Ascend Amphitheater - August 27
• The Killers @ Bridgestone Arena - September 17
• Alicia Keys @ Ascend Amphitheater - September 24
• Elton John @ Nissan Stadium - October 2
• Shawn Mendes @ Bridgestone Arena - October 19

Articles You Might Enjoy

The 10 Best Areas of Metro Atlanta

Atlanta is a large and diverse city, but many people only explore downtown Atlanta when they visit. Wondering what other parts of Atlanta are best to visit? Spice up your next trip to The Big Peach with these top areas of metro Atlanta, offering everything from festivals and filming locations to outdoor activities and museums. […]

What Is An Extended Stay Hotel?

If you’ve never booked an extended stay hotel, the features of these efficiency-style accommodations may surprise and delight you. Whether you’re looking for temporary housing, a long-term rental, or an apartment alternative, don’t overlook the value that long-term stay hotels provide. Let’s dive in and learn more about what you can expect during your stay […]

Tips To Save Money on Longer Hotel Stays

Saving money on extended stay hotels is one of the easiest ways to make your next business trip or vacation an affordable, enjoyable experience. Expenses incurred during longer hotel stays can add up fast if you aren’t careful, but by making a few frugal choices in lodging, dining, and entertainment, you can save money without […]

• Last Updated On
• June 24, 2023

50 Free Things to Do in Nashville, TN — Places to Go for Free!

If I were to whisper two words – music and hot chicken – I bet you’d jump right to one city. 

You got it, Nashville.

It might seem like the glitziest, priciest town in the state, but don’t be fooled. 

I’ve trotted around these parts, and there are a ton of free things to do in Nashville, TN.

I’m talking about historic buildings that tell a story, parks that welcome families, and art that stirs the soul. 

Not to mention fun activities for the kiddos. 

You can also find places where live country tunes won’t cost you more than a dime.

No matter your budget, there’s a plethora of thrilling experiences to fill your day here. 

Venture into its distinct districts, each offering something unique without emptying your pockets. 

Plan your visit now, and let’s dive into all the freebies that await you.

Free Things To Do In Nashville, TN Compared 

Experience the energy of live music, immerse in local culture, and savor the delightful flavors of Nashville’s culinary scene. 

Let the rhythm of Music City guide your unforgettable family adventure.

Editor’s Choice

Free Live Music in Nashville

Nashville is bursting at the seams with music venues, many of which offer free live music.

• Family-Friendliness: 4/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Educational Value: 2/5
• Safety: 4/5
• Fun Factor: 5/5

#2nd Best Choice

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

The Bicentennial Mall is a significant urban park inaugurated in 1996 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the state’s foundation.

• Family-Friendliness: 5/5
• Educational Value: 4/5
• Safety: 5/5
• Fun Factor: 4/5

#3rd Best Choice

CHAUVET Arts

In the center of Downtown Nashville, CHAUVET Arts is housed in a historic structure with over 4000 square feet of space on 5th Avenue of the Arts.

• Family-Friendliness: 3/5
• Accessibility: 3/5
• Fun Factor: 3/5

Here are the 50 free things to do in Nashville.

1. Free Live Music in Nashville (Editor’s Choice)

Nashville, TN Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Vibrant music scene: The abundance of free live music offers visitors and residents a chance to experience the city’s rich musical heritage and witness talented musicians performing in various genres.
• Diverse venues and genres: From honky-tonk bars on Broadway to open-air concerts in public parks, Nashville’s free live music scene caters to a wide range of tastes.
• Crowded venues: This may result in limited seating, difficulty finding a good spot, or longer wait times for drinks and services.
• Noise level and sound quality: Depending on personal preferences, this could be seen as a drawback for those looking for a quieter experience or seeking a more intimate musical setting.

Why We Recommend This Free Activity

Since Nashville is known as the “Music City,” visiting its numerous music venues is necessary.

Heck, it might even be your main goal for traveling.

Even though concert-hopping can be expensive, there are venues you can go to for free.

Many neighborhoods and streets are renowned for playing great music loudly and unaccountably.

We have Printer’s Alley, Lower Broadway, Honky Tonk Highway, SoBro, Midtown, Music Row/Demonbreun, and The Gulch.

AJ’s Good Time Bar on Honky Tonk Highway features some of the town’s best live country music.

Lower Broadway’s Acme Feed & Seed is a classic honky tonk and is famous for some of the most delicious sushi and handcrafted cocktails.

Blues lovers frequent the colorfully decorated B.B. King’s Blues Club & Restaurant in Printer’s Alley for live performances and traditional Southern cuisine.

In SoBro, Johnny Cash’s Kitchen & Saloon is a tribute to many of Johnny’s favorite passions.

The Gulch’s Party Fowl has live music, bloody Mary brunch, and the most delicious Nashville hot chicken.

Music fans will have a great time at The Commodore Grille, located inside the Holiday Inn West End/Midtown and features live music seven nights a week.

Finally, The Original Tin Roof, located on Music Row, has been Nashville’s go-to live music venue for almost 13 years.

These places provide free live music for hours.

So, all you have to spend your hard-earned money on are drinks and food.

For tech-savvy and in-the-know tourists, download Nashville’s Free Live Music App.

This app gives you complete access to the Nashville music scene, including the who, what, where, when, and how of live music performances.

It keeps you up to speed on upcoming shows; it allows you to search for clubs by area and includes venue images.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Moxy Nashville Downtown

2. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

600 James Robertson Pkwy Nashville, TN 37243 (615) 741-5280 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Historical and educational value: Visitors can explore various monuments, memorials, and exhibits that commemorate the state’s bicentennial and learn about its role in the nation’s history.
• Scenic beauty and recreational opportunities: The park’s well-maintained grounds, including its expansive lawn, walking paths, and fountains, offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. 
• Limited attractions: While Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park offers a serene and educational environment, its attractions are primarily focused on Tennessee’s history. 
• Weather dependency: Extreme heat, rain, or inclement weather might limit the time spent outdoors or make certain activities less enjoyable.

Visitors can experience Tennessee’s history and natural wonders at the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park without paying a cent.

It features a 200-foot-long granite map of the state, a pathway that depicts the 95 counties, and 31 fountains that stand in for Tennessee’s important rivers.

It’s also close to other free attractions, such as the Tennessee State Capitol (discussed further below).

This means you and your family will have plenty of photo opportunities and picnicking.

This sprawling memorial may be seen in 1–2 hours if you only do a walking tour, but we encourage staying to learn about Tennessee’s rich history.

Avoid the hassle of finding a parking spot by taking the Old Town Trolley.

If you have a Hometown Pass, you can access many free attractions throughout the city.

More importantly, arrive early to secure a free two-hour parking spot.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: TownePlace Suites Nashville Downtown/Capitol District

3. CHAUVET Arts

215 Rep. John Lewis Way N Nashville, TN 37219 (615) 278-9086 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Artistic expression and creativity: Visitors can explore diverse forms of art, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia presentations, which can be inspiring and thought-provoking.
• Cultural enrichment: CHAUVET Arts offers an opportunity to engage with contemporary art, fostering cultural enrichment and appreciation for artistic expression.
• Limited exhibition space: This might result in a rotating selection of exhibits, potentially limiting the variety and choices available to visitors at any given time.
• Subjectivity and personal taste: While some visitors may find the exhibits engaging and captivating, others may not connect with or appreciate the artwork on display.

CHAUVET Arts is a frugal art lover’s dream come true.

Original modern artworks take center stage, all created by emerging photographers, painters, and sculptors.

The exhibits are free to the public, but keep up to date on their upcoming schedules.

There are also free events in Nashville offered where visitors are welcome to participate and bring their own refreshments, including alcoholic drinks.

Catch their exhibits on the First Saturday Downtown Art Crawl.

It’s a costless event featuring exquisite art pieces by renowned local artists.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Centric Downtown Nashville

4. Arrington Vineyards

6211 Patton Rd Arrington, TN 37014 (615) 395-0102 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Arrington Vineyards is a vast, serene field with hillside picnicking, wine by the bottle or flight, frosé, and snacks.

Arrington Vineyards is Tennessee’s finest winery, but that isn’t the only reason to visit.

At this gorgeous vineyard, you can picnic any day of the week without spending a dime.

Live bluegrass and jazz music play on weekends in the spring, summer, and fall, with food trucks available seasonally.

Each concert has no admission fee and provides an excellent opportunity to sample delicious wine at a reasonable price.

Plus, there’s free parking, which makes it all the more convenient.

So, to summarize, you can visit this location for free, park for free, listen to music for free, and bring your own picnic for free.

If you’re looking for the ultimate free destination in Nashville with a romantic touch and stunning views, this is it.

Outside alcohol is not permitted, which is understandable given the excellent wine available.

It is completely family-friendly, but like any other establishment, they appreciate you keeping an eye on your children so everyone can have a good time.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Franklin – Berry Farms, an IHG Hotel

5. Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery

110 Leake Ave Nashville, TN 37205 (615) 356-0501 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The 1840s-era Greek Revival plantation house and grounds at Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery include a winery and event spaces.

The Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery is a terrific family-friendly destination.

The guided walking tour of the 1853 Greek Revival Mansion takes about 45 minutes to complete and is free for little ones aged 5 and below.

For individuals 21 and older, there is a complimentary wine tasting.

There’s also a family tour dedicated to families with youngsters aged 4 to 12, complete with hands-on crafts and games.

Adults and children aged 4 and above require tickets, while children aged 3 and under are admitted free of charge.

Wheelchair access is available on the grounds and on the first level of the Mansion.

To ensure your comfort, it is advised to bring your own scooter, wheelchair, walker, or cane.

There is also an elevator for your convenience.

However, for a trouble-free tour, wear suitable walking shoes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Nashville Green Hills

Related: Things to Do in Nashville, TN

6. Music City Walk of Fame Park

121 4th Ave S Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 259-4747 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

The Music City Walk of Fame Park on Nashville’s Music Mile is a landmark tribute to those with a connection to Music City.

The Music City Walk of Fame Park is another must-see musical destination.

This is a historic ode to musicians from various genres who have made important contributions to the music business.

Glossy plaques recognize lyricists and artists, and the Walk of Fame includes illustrious performers like Dolly Parton and Rascal Flatts.

For music lovers visiting Nashville, this is always an excellent substitute if you can’t make it to the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

This small area may be explored in a matter of minutes.

Find your favorite artist and pose for a quick photo for your social media updates.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Grand Hyatt Nashville

7. First Saturday Art Crawl

Nashville, TN Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This gallery presents works by regionally and internationally renowned artists and features various exhibitions covering all art forms.

The First Saturday Crawl is a regularly occurring event where many attend free receptions and art openings at downtown galleries.

Typically, it takes place on the first Saturday of each month (unless otherwise announced).

Locals and visitors can enjoy this event’s unique installations and free wine as they stroll through the Avenue of the Arts.

Free stuff in Nashville, TN, you say?

Most locations offer delicious complimentary cocktails to sip while touring, but you must be over 21 to drink, so carry a valid ID.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Hermitage Hotel

8. Cooter’s Place

2613B McGavock Pk Nashville, TN 37214 (615) 872-8358 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ben “Cooter” Jones established the museum Cooter’s Place, which features artifacts from The Dukes of Hazzard and General Lee.

When you’re traveling through Nashville, Cooter’s Place is a terrific stop for a fun 80’s throwback and is always free to explore.

Ben “Cooter” Jones personally runs this museum, filled with memorabilia, vintage Duke’s automobiles, pictures, props, and costumes.

If you’re a big fan of the popular television show, this place is a must-see.

Make the most of your visit and look for Cooter’s Tow Truck and the bright orange vehicle with the Rebel flag flying from the roof.

If you’re headed to the Opry, stopping is worthwhile since it’s just a short distance away.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Suites near Opryland

9. Belmont Mansion

1901 15th Ave S Nashville, TN 37212 (615) 460-5459 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The elegant Belmont Mansion, constructed in 1853 for a cotton heiress, is now a historic house museum.

Belmont, which has been cited as one of the South’s most extravagant and distinctive residences, is another family-friendly location.

You can take a self-guided tour, stroll among the grounds and gardens, and stop by a stationed guide for further information.

Adults will be charged for all-day admission, except for children aged 5 and under.

Because the objects in the house are part of the museum collection, no touching is permitted.

For a more complete experience, there are also guided tours and a personalized curator’s tour, which are naturally more expensive.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Moxy Nashville Vanderbilt Area

Related: Things to Do in Nashville with Kids

10. Centennial Park

2500 West End Ave Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 862-8400 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This 132-acre park was established in 1903 and offers a wealth of low-cost, leisurely activities for visitors of all ages.

Centennial Park is one of the most beautiful parks offering free activities in Nashville.

The 132-acre space is home to the magnificent Parthenon, a splendid marble temple built during the height of the ancient Greek Empire.

On top of that, there are historical sites, art centers, recreational areas, a mile-long walking track, and Lake Watauga.

Each year, thousands of visitors come to the park to view the museum, exhibits, and festivals and just to take in its natural beauty.

There is free parking and public facilities, and it is open from daybreak until 11 p.m.

Although there are many trees to provide shade, the park may get hot in the summer, so pack plenty of water and refreshments.

It’s also accessible via the Old Town Trolley.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Placemakr Music Row

11. Hatch Show Print

224 Rep. John Lewis Way S Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 577-7710 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Known for its woodblock prints of iconic country music stars, Hatch Show Print is a legendary design company with tours.

Hatch Show Print, one of the country’s oldest still operating letterpress print companies, is a collector and an art enthusiast’s dream.

Learn everything there is to know about the history of this renowned letterpress poster shop by taking the Hatch Show Print tour.

Children under the age of 5 are admitted free, while adults and older children must pay for each entry.

After the tour, which lasts around an hour, you can print your souvenir poster for free.

This print shop is next to the Country Music Hall of Fame, which is a terrific way to accomplish two goals simultaneously.

If you want to see large-scale pieces and artwork by many affiliated artists, head to the Hatch Gallery across the hall.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Omni Nashville Hotel

12. Nashville Flea Market

401 Wingrove St Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 862-5016 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Nashville Flea Market at The Fairgrounds is one of the top 10 flea markets in the country.

Every month’s fourth weekend is a junker’s heaven where you may find many intriguing goods and great discounts.

The Nashville Flea Market has between 800 and 1,200 merchants and dealers from 30 states selling just about anything.

There are different sorts of plants, jewelry, tools, collectibles, home goods, unusual finds, and bizarre objects like taxidermied pigs.

You don’t always see this at flea markets, but the restrooms are spotless and the indoor area is highly organized.

Food trucks and beverages are also available if you get hungry while walking around.

Due to the size of the location, you could easily spend many hours exploring everything.

We recommend you wander through most of the stalls before pulling out your wallet.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holston House Nashville, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

13. Carnton

1345 Eastern Flank Cir Franklin, TN 37064 (615) 794-0903 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Carnton is a cotton plantation that offers tours of the house and grounds and was the scene of a Civil War battle in 1864.

Carnton played a significant part in the American Civil War’s Battle of Franklin and the days that followed.

It now functions as a museum, with the adjoining McGavock Confederate Cemetery housing the remains of over 1,500 Southern troops.

There are various tours offered; however, only the Carnton Classic House Tour allows children (under the age of 6) without paying for admission.

There will be access to the grounds, outbuildings, family cemetery, and garden throughout the 60-minute guided tour of the house.

Examine the bloodstains that remain on the wooden floorboards.

It serves as a reminder of the atrocities of war and the agony of the injured and the dead.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Candlewood Suites – Nashville – Franklin, an IHG Hotel

14. LeQuire Gallery & Studio

4304 Charlotte Ave Nashville, TN 37209 (615) 298-4611 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Since 2003, LeQuire Gallery & Studio has represented some of Nashville’s most well-known painters, sculptors, and internationally renowned contemporary artists.

Every contemporary art fan should swing by LeQuire Gallery & Studio.

With a focus on figurative work, this collection showcases modern paintings, drawings, and sculptures.

Additionally, the instantly recognizable sculptures that serve as symbols for the city were created by Alan LeQuire.

“Musica” may be found on Music Row, while “Athena Parthenos,” the biggest indoor statue in the Western world, can be found at the Parthenon.

The popular Smokin’ Thighs, which frequently provides free food and beverages along with your purchase, is right next door.

There could be free desserts or beer, and there is even free parking.

You can also play poker for free and then exchange your poker chips for free drinks on your next visit.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Loews Vanderbilt Hotel

15. Downtown Presbyterian Church

154 Rep. John Lewis Way N Nashville, TN 37219 (615) 254-7584 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

William Strickland designed Downtown Presbyterian Church in the 1840s, which was used as a hospital during the American Civil War.

The Downtown Presbyterian Church is one of the country’s largest and finest examples of Egyptian Revival architecture.

During limited schedules, the public is welcome to take tours of the sanctuary, and a DPC member will be present to address guests’ inquiries.

The sanctuary is usually open for tours from noon to 2 pm on the second and fourth Fridays of the month.

And that’s not all.

They also have an art gallery open during the First Saturday Art Crawl of each month.

An extensive collection of contemporary art is displayed throughout the historic building, open for everyone to explore.

If visitors are tech-savvy travelers, they can scan a QR code for an online tour.

It plays a thorough film of church historian Jim Hoobler explaining the location and revealing some of its fascinating history.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Westin Nashville

16. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

1200 Forrest Park Dr Nashville, TN 37205 (615) 356-8000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Nashville’s Cheekwood is a 55-acre botanical garden and historic estate with art galleries, annual festivals, and gorgeous wedding locations.

Experience Cheekwood, the 55-acre estate and garden with art galleries, festivals, and a stunning landscape.

It combines a botanical garden, an arboretum, and a museum, offering the general public access to historical spaces and art galleries for a nominal fee.

Ages 2 and younger are welcome to enter, so don’t be concerned—financial-wise—if you’re there with your little ones.

Although they don’t permit outside food or drinks, a cafe on-site offers lunch dishes, drinks, and a kids’ menu.

Also, if you’re looking for the best places to propose in Nashville, several areas around the estate would make an ideal backdrop.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott Nashville Green Hills

17. Nashville Shakespeare Festival — Shakespeare in the Park

161 Rains Avenue Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 255-2273 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Since 1988, Centennial Park has been drawing summer visitors with its free Shakespeare in the Park Festival.

For over 30 years, the Nashville Shakespeare Festival has provided free performances in Centennial Park.

It is usually held throughout summer, from Thursday to Sunday, and on Labor Day Monday.

Every year, a new play is presented, with the most skilled theatrical artists educating and delighting the Mid-South region.

For a complete schedule of show times, go to the Nashville Shakespeare in the Park website.

There is a dedicated zone immediately in front of the stage for anyone who wants to sit on blankets.

Choose your seat carefully to avoid blocking the view of those sitting behind you.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sheraton Grand Nashville Downtown

18. Fort Nashborough Interpretive Center

170 1st Ave N Nashville, TN 37201 (615) 862-8400 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

The stockade constructed in early 1779 was known as Fort Nashborough, Fort Bluff, Cumberland River Fort, and other names.

The Fort Nashborough Interpretive Center is a historical site every visitor should see.

Here is a reproduction of the fort that founded Nashville, which serves more as a history lesson than a truly authentic experience.

The region is extraordinarily well-constructed and accurate, and it is free to self-tour from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

The property also includes a Native American Plaza, which celebrates the tribes and people that once lived there.

The entire area is small and may be explored in under ten minutes.

Furthermore, homeless people have settled within because it’s free to explore, so keep an eye out for them if you’re feeling uneasy.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cambria Hotel Nashville Downtown

19. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

222 Rep. John Lewis Way S Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 416-2001 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This 130,000-square-foot museum is a wonderful combination of historical and musical displays and is located in the center of downtown.

Looking for entertaining things to do in Nashville?

Then, make sure to put this museum on your list of Nashville attractions to see.

The museum, which bills itself as the “Smithsonian of country music,” has cutting-edge galleries and instructional spaces.

Additionally, it is one of the world’s biggest museums devoted to conserving American folk music.

For children under the age of five, admission is free.

Walk past memorial plaques for Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, and other country music icons.

Numerous music-related artifacts are also present, including Elvis Presley’s solid gold Cadillac limousine.

After that, visit the “Sing Me Back Home” exhibit for an engaging history lesson.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: AC Hotel Nashville Downtown

20. Sarratt Gallery at Vanderbilt University

2301 Vanderbilt Pl Nashville, TN 37240 (615) 343-0491 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Sarratt Gallery at Vanderbilt University is situated in a warm part of Nashville known for its top museums and fantastic live music scene.

The Sarratt Gallery at Vanderbilt University is another free art gallery worth visiting.

Every year, it hosts ever-changing displays of modern art by regional and national artists.

From paper pieces to sculpture, you’ll find a variety of unique mediums to expand your art expertise.

The gallery is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

There’s no need to worry about parking because there’s complimentary parking for Sarratt Center events.

It’s available on weekends and after 4:30 p.m. on weekdays at the garage near 25th Avenue South and Highland.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Graduate Nashville

21. Fort Negley

1100 Fort Negley Blvd Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 862-8470 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

After seizing Nashville during the American Civil War, Union troops constructed Fort Negley as a defensive position.

Discover the greatest inland masonry fort constructed during the Civil War.

As soon as you walk in, you may access interactive displays and a 20-minute video detailing the construction of Fort Negley.

Self-guided walking excursions are provided from dawn to dusk all year.

There is also a visitor’s center, although it is only open by appointment and on certain days of the week.

If you merely want to walk around with your furry friend, you can do so during park hours and enjoy fantastic city views.

Fort Negley Park is located in South Nashville, two miles from Lower Broadway’s entertainment, music, and sports facilities.

Site maps are located in the mailbox that is posted behind the stone gates if you require them.

Restrooms are also provided for your convenience during the visitor center’s operating hours.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: 21c Museum Hotel Nashville

22. Frist Art Museum

919 Broadway Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 244-3340 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This exhibit hall is a must-see for art enthusiasts and is located in the US Post Office building in Nashville.

Unlike other art galleries, this one doesn’t have a permanent collection.

Instead, it changes the art show every six to nine weeks.

Among the current and previous exhibits are Australian Aboriginal art, Roman art, and collections from Nashville-based artists.

It’s a fantastic location for discovering new information and delighting in an outstanding artwork.

Admission is free for ages 18 and under.

Visit the Martin ArtQuest Gallery to learn how to make art after admiring the displays.

Additionally, there is a cafe and a gift shop where you can find exciting collectibles.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: BentoLiving Chestnut Hill – Nashville

23. Tinney Contemporary

237 Rep. John Lewis Way N Nashville, TN 37219 (615) 255-7816 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Tinney Contemporary is a sleek, contemporary gallery that features works by well-known international artists, including paintings, photos, and more.

Nashville features many museums, art studios, and galleries for a city best known for its music.

But Tinney Contemporary stands out due to its top-notch modern art.

It focuses on bringing together established local, regional, national, and worldwide artists’ collectible works in one location.

Owner Susan Tinney played a significant role in the development of the First Saturday Art Crawl and continues to be active in the city’s burgeoning art community.

No matter where the art was purchased—whether from Tinney Contemporary or elsewhere—they offer assistance with framing and installation.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Dream Nashville

24. Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center

2800 Opryland Dr Nashville, TN 37214 (615) 889-1000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This hotel, in the center of Nashville, offers first-rate amenities like on-site dining options and retail stores, a sumptuous spa, and a unique aquatic adventure.

Let’s face it, who doesn’t enjoy a freebie?

If you agree, you’ll enjoy Nashville’s enormous resort and convention center, which are offered without charge.

Many of the resort’s amenities, including the delta river, the cascades, and the garden conservatory, are available for exploration by guests at the Gaylord Opryland Resort.

Sit by a waterfall and unwind while the kids play freely throughout the property.

Even better, you can take a boat ride on the river right in the middle of the hotel, by Delta Island, or visit the charming stores and restaurants nearby.

25. Historic Travellers Rest

636 Farrell Pkwy Nashville, TN 37220 (615) 832-8197 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

In Nashville, Travellers Rest is the oldest historical home museum accessible to the general public.

Travellers Rest, built in 1799 by Judge John Overton, is Nashville’s oldest open-to-the-public historic residence.

Here, learners of all ages can take self-directed or guided tours to learn about and experience Nashville’s historic past.

Self-guided grounds tours and guided house tours are available Tuesdays through Saturdays and last about an hour.

Adults and youngsters must pay an admission fee, while children under six are free to enter.

Reservations are advised because tour availability is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Candlewood Suites – Nashville South, an IHG Hotel

26. Vanderbilt Fine Arts Gallery

Hall Cohen Memorial, 1220 21st Ave S Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 322-0605 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Vanderbilt Fine Arts Gallery features six annual exhibitions from Vanderbilt’s extensive permanent collection.

Throughout the year, the Vanderbilt Fine Arts Gallery presents changing exhibitions.

The gallery has worked to grow its holdings of modern artwork by well-known artists worldwide while maintaining a diversified collection.

The permanent collection includes about 6,500 works of world art, sculptures, and an extensive collection of ancient and modern works on paper.

The gallery is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends.

Visit the Gallery on the second Tuesday of each month for a guided tour of the current exhibition and paintings on display.

Keep up to date on current and upcoming exhibits by following them on social media and visiting their official website.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Bobby Hotel

27. Nashville Public Library

615 Church St Nashville, TN 37219 (615) 862-5800 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Nashville Public Library is a public library that serves the city of Nashville, Tennessee, as well as the Davidson County metropolitan region.

This public library offers free fun in Nashville all year long for kids of all ages.

Numerous activities and workshops are offered, such as regular Story Time, puppet shows, music in the courtyard, book clubs, and craft days.

There are additional amenities for adults and parents to enjoy, including a cafe, an art gallery, an auditorium, and 1.5 hours of free public parking.

If you have more time, check out the movie viewing area, which features movies that last from 10 minutes to 3 hours.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: JW Marriott Nashville

28. Lane Motor Museum

702 Murfreesboro Pike Nashville, TN 37210 (615) 742-7445 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Lane Motor Museum is a former bakery that now houses classic European automobiles, including an amphibious vehicle.

Bring your young children who adore cars (4 years old and younger) and cultivate those interests early.

The Lane Motor Museum houses the country’s greatest European collection of automobiles and motorcycles and the most unusual collection of cars you’ve ever seen.

Visitors will find rarities such as propeller-driven cars, microcars, amphibious cars, one-of-a-kind prototypes, military cars, and race cars.

What else would a little car fanatic want more than this?

Don’t miss the exhibitions in the garage or the enormous military truck in the back.

There’s also an underground tour for an extra fee to see even more cars in the collection.

They are usually stored in the basement and rotate in and out of the main show floor.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sheraton Music City Nashville Airport

29. Zeitgeist Gallery

516 Hagan St #100 Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 256-4805 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Zeitgeist, formed in 1994, offered a haven for experienced artists to explore and develop new ideas.

Both local and regional artists are highlighted at the Zeitgeist Gallery, which is situated in Wedgewood-Houston.

A modern art gallery, it features changing exhibits that give visitors a fascinating inside look at art, artists, and the creative process.

Before viewing the most recent, intriguing works of art on display, stop by Dozen Bakery for a croissant and coffee.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Nashville Downtown

30. Tennessee Agricultural Museum

404 Hogan Rd Nashville, TN 37220 (615) 837-5197 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Tennessee Agricultural Museum is a restored barn where exhibits from the 19th and 20th centuries depict farm and home life.

The Tennessee Agricultural Museum has a sizable collection of domestic and agricultural relics from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

A community of log cabins, a woodland trail, and heirloom gardens are also on the property.

Free admission, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

The interactive Children’s Gallery will appeal to your younger children, who should be between the ages of 3 and 8.

Children ages 3 to 6 can attend storytimes at the Tennessee State Museum every Thursday and Saturday.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Four Points Nashville – Brentwood

31. Sightseeing Tours

Enjoy a memorable sightseeing tour and explore all of Nashville’s beautiful locations.

Perhaps you’d want to take matters into your own hands and embark on an independent self-guided tour.

If that’s the case, numerous guides are available online, or you can simply use this page as your guide.

In any case, Nashville is walkable, particularly downtown, as well as other major areas and well-known streets.

Gather your strolling companions and create a self-guided tour that you can complete in a matter of hours and on a shoestring budget.

As with any self-guided tour, remember to plan ahead of time.

Call beforehand to confirm each venue’s business hours, tour hours, reservation fees, hidden fees, or necessary IDs and papers.

Bring plenty of water, dress appropriately, and wear your most comfortable walking shoes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Union Station Nashville Yards, Autograph Collection

32. Tennessee State Museum

1000 Rosa L Parks Blvd Nashville, TN 37208 (615) 741-2692 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This sizable museum, founded in 1937, protects and promotes the state’s rich and distinctive history.

One of your top picks for things to do in Nashville is the Tennessee State Museum.

The Tennessee State Museum houses the 13,000-year-old art and history of Tennessee.

From its earliest times to the present, the Tennessee State Museum chronicles the whole history of Tennessee, including Music City.

The fascinating tale of the state’s contribution to making it happen will be revealed to visitors.

Every day at 2:00 pm, free highlight tours are available.

There is plenty of free parking available, and there is no entrance fee at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park.

Enjoy the museum’s changing temporary art exhibits and permanent exhibits.

You can also participate in the museum’s many educational activities and events.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairlane Hotel Nashville, An Original By Oliver Hotels

33. Fannie Mae Dees Park

2400 Blakemore Ave Nashville, TN 37212 (615) 862-8400 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Fannie Mae Dees Park, also known as Dragon Park, is a small outdoor space with trees for shade, playground equipment, and local artwork.

Are you looking for free things to do in Nashville with kids?

Fannie Mae Dees Park is well-loved by locals and tourists for its family-friendly features.

You can feel secure letting your little ones run off and explore because the large playground is set back from the road.

There is also a big seesaw, a smaller slide, a cooling mist station, and a sandbox.

Additionally, the park has a stunning mosaic dragon sculpture that is a remarkable work of art.

Be sure to read the plaque describing the project located close to the tail.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Virgin Hotels Nashville

34. Riverfront Park

100 1st Ave N Nashville, TN 37201 (615) 862-8400 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Fannie Mae Dees Park, also known as the Dragon Park, is packed with play areas and equipment, including a splash pad for keeping cool in the summer.

The Cumberland River’s Riverfront Park is a part of the District.

Here, you can visit the 7,000-seat Ascend Amphitheater and Fort Nashborough.

Visitors and residents enjoy the outdoor space, which features several outstanding public artworks, such as the stunning Ghost Ballet.

At night, the sculpture has a neon light in the middle that shines beautifully and noticeably.

If you’re wondering what to do tonight while on a budget, view this stunning red structure, which twists upward into a disjointed sphere shape.

Free fireworks are usually sent off during the 4th of July, choreographed by the Grammy-winning Nashville Symphony.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Kimpton Aertson Hotel, an IHG Hotel

35. Midnite Jamboree

2416 Music Valley Dr Nashville, TN 37214 (615) 889-2474 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

The Midnite Jamboree has been a popular and long-running radio show in Nashville since 1947.

Do you want to do something fun this weekend?

Attend the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree as a live radio audience member.

Midnight Jamboree is well-known for being the country’s second longest-running radio show.

If you’re in Nashville on a Tuesday night, take a seat in the crowd and take part in an unforgettable experience.

The live concert will be broadcast on AM 650 WSM radio on Saturday night, so have your recorder ready and have it on audio or voice memo.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Nashville-Opryland, an IHG Hotel

36. Savannah’s Candy Kitchen

310 Broadway Nashville, TN 37219 (615) 313-9919 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Savannah’s Candy Kitchen has been manufacturing candy and memories from scratch for over 40 years in a neighborhood near the Downtown Core.

Discover the best-handcrafted candy in the area at Savannah’s Candy Kitchen.

It offers a wide variety of caramel apples, chocolates, gourmet popcorn, and pralines at its Broadway location.

If your sweet tooth is looking for free things in Nashville, Savannah’s free praline samples will be the high point of your visit.

They’re open till late at night (11 p.m.), which is excellent for late-night cravings.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Bode Nashville

37. Downtown Nashville

Downtown Nashville is home to some of the most well-known venues and attractions, including Upper and Lower Broadway.

Downtown Nashville offers a small center to explore, with an abundance of eateries to keep you fueled.

There are plenty of places to roam around and observe people without spending any money.

Watch for significant locations to visit and stunning, attention-grabbing architecture along Broadway’s main avenue.

Plus, this article already covers additional downtown locations, like the Frist Art Museum and Savannah’s Candy Kitchen.

Enjoy live music in all of the venues without having to worry about cover charges.

Plus, there’s no minimum food and drink requirement to stay and listen to great tunes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hutton Hotel

38. Broadway

1st Avenue North – 21st Avenue South Nashville, TN 37203 Social Media Open in Google Maps

Broadway is a significant road that passes through the center of downtown Nashville from the southwest to the northeast.

Would you believe you can plan your entire vacation on just one street?

On Nashville’s Broadway Street, anything is possible.

Broadway is a significant avenue running through downtown Nashville’s heart from southwest to northeast.

The roadway is well-known for connecting districts such as the Gulch and Music Row to the Cumberland River waterfront.

There are several attractions and historical sites, including Union Station, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, and the Lower Broadway honky tonks.

Listen to live music, marvel at the interesting architecture, and just enjoy the area’s natural beauty.

Do you want to explore all the free places to go in Nashville without hassle?

Take the Old Town Trolley instead of navigating the congested downtown streets and attempting to find parking close to the well-known sites.

Sit back and relax as the conductor takes you through several of Nashville’s well-known attractions, including prominent locations on Broadway.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Renaissance Nashville Hotel

SoBro is next to Downtown and home to exciting murals, markets, and local happy hours.

SoBro refers to the south side of downtown Nashville’s Broadway.

Unlike its neighbor to the north, this area is known for new things, with a smattering of Nashville stalwarts, such as live music venues.

But apart from that, SoBro is also known for its high-end hotels, luxury boutiques, fine-dining restaurants, and bars.

Even though this region is often more expensive than others, there are still free things to do around here.

Visit the Music City Center, sample free beers at Ole Smoky Distillery, or take a tour of the Johnny Cash Museum (children 5 and under are admitted for free).

Apart from the Johnny Cash Museum, the Patsy Cline Museum also admits children 5 years and under for free.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Homewood Suites by Hilton Nashville Downtown

40. Germantown

Nashville, TN 37208 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Old industrial structures and Victorian-era houses can be found in Germantown, which also has a hipster-style Neighborhood Resource Center built inside an old firehouse.

Are you searching for free stuff to do today or this weekend?

We recommend visiting and strolling around Germantown.

This neighborhood, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is swiftly growing in popularity among independent designers and foodies.

It can be expensive to visit each store and eatery.

However, the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park is nearby and is always open to the public for free.

You can also awe at the Victorian structures that have been restored, the cafes that line the brick pathways, and the vintage charm that the area emits.

Germantown is home to the Nashville Farmers’ Market, which is always free to visit and open year-round except for holidays.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt House Nashville at Vanderbilt

41. Ole Smoky Distillery & Yee-Haw Brewery

423 6th Ave S Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 647-8272 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Together with Yee Haw Brewing Company, Ole Smoky Distillery has increased its footprint in Tennessee and opened a complex in Nashville’s SoBro neighborhood.

For beer lovers, The Ole Smoky Distillery & Yee-Haw Brewery is a must-visit.

Ole Smoky, producers of award-winning whiskey and moonshine, offers visitors and locals of Nashville an indoor-outdoor, family-friendly entertainment experience.

Apart from the taco stand, the beers are well-crafted and excellent, and if you want to test the waters before purchasing a bottle, they provide moonshine tasting.

For only $10, you get five free moonshine tasters plus a free 9-ounce beer.

Sometimes, they even give you a $10 off coupon for your next purchase.

There is excellent live music, a food truck courtyard, basketball hoops, a corn hole, and a huge connect four.

Utilize these additional options to make the most of your trip and enjoy yourself with your friends.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Clarion Hotel Downtown Nashville – Stadium

42. Radnor Lake State Park

1160 Otter Creek Rd Nashville, TN 37220 (615) 373-3467 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Radnor Lake State Park is a well-liked state park and natural area in Oak Hill, Tennessee, which is part of Nashville.

Traveling families will adore the 1,300-acre day-use Radnor Lake State Park.

It’s ideal for a variety of pursuits like hiking, nature studies, photography, bird watching, and wildlife observation.

There are over eight miles of pathways and a bird aviary.

If you and your children are interested, rangers provide free programs on astronomy, wildflowers, snakes, and birds of prey.

Also, keep in mind that the area is off-limits to joggers, cyclists, and dog walkers.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sonesta Simply Suites Nashville Brentwood

43. The District

Lower Broadway & 2nd Avenue Nashville, TN 37215 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The District is a bustling neighborhood overflowing with honky-tonks, top-notch restaurants, musicians, tens of thousands of visitors, and quite a few locals.

The District, often known as the historic downtown district, is located adjacent to the city’s core along the Cumberland River.

This has a ton of attractions, establishments, and things to do that will keep you and your family occupied for hours—or, better yet, the entire day.

It contains Riverfront Park, Fort Nashborough (discussed above), Printers Alley, and the 2nd Avenue North entertainment sector.

Check out what’s going on on Historic 2nd Avenue, Nashville’s first area to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Today, it is renowned for its stunning architecture and local shops, nightlife, and restaurants.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Indigo Nashville, an IHG Hotel

44. Opry Mills

433 Opry Mills Dr Nashville, TN 37214 (615) 514-1000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Opry Mills, a prominent outlet and value retail destination in Nashville, is located on Briley Parkway between Interstates 40 and 65.

At this super-regional mall in Nashville, you are welcome to window shop and stroll all you want.

More than 200 retailers can be found at Opry Mills, along with special family dining and entertainment opportunities.

Shopping, dining, and participating in activities all cost money, but pre-planning, browsing, and staying up to date on trends are all free.

It provides quick and easy access to downtown Nashville and Nashville International Airport, so you may pass some time if you’re nearby.

If you live nearby and require transportation, a free shuttle service runs from Opry Mills to the Gaylord Opryland hotel.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center

45. Edwin and Percy Warner Parks

50 Vaughn Rd Nashville, TN 37221 (615) 370-8051 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Percy Warner Park is a public forest and green space.

It features equestrian and hiking trails, bike lanes, and sports fields.

Two of Nashville’s most well-liked parks for recreation and entertainment are Percy and Edwin Warner Parks, which are hidden from the city’s busy streets.

Both parks, conveniently located off Highway 100, provide some of Nashville’s best recreational opportunities, including hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and more.

Additionally, the area has a model-airplane flying field that provides enthusiasts with a safe and legal place to test-fly their models.

This is an excellent place for hikers of all skill levels because you can pick the length of the trail you want to take.

Furthermore, since the park’s map is not well marked (usually with just a color that sometimes changes mid-trail), it is advisable to snap a picture of it.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2 Suites By Hilton Nashville Bellevue

46. Cumberland River Pedestrian Bridge

2300 Two Rivers Parkway Nashville, TN 37214 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Nashville’s impressive and developing greenway system is significantly helped by the Cumberland River’s bend near Briley and Two Rivers Parkway.

Visitors from East Nashville can cross the Cumberland River on the pedestrian bridge to go downtown.

Locals frequently use this bridge for picnics, romantic strolls into the city, and fun get-togethers with friends.

Bicyclists and pedestrians can travel at their own pace on the 15-foot-wide bike path that runs across the middle of the bridge.

If you decide to stroll across the bridge, remember to pack a camera and some food so you can linger for a bit and take in the scenery.

You must pay to enter the water park and golf course, but you can hang out in the skate park and play disc golf—free of charge.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sonesta Nashville Airport

47. Music Row

16th Ave S and 17th Ave S Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 259-4700 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

The Music Row neighborhood, also known as Music Square, is situated between 16th and 17th Avenues South and is regarded as the center of Nashville’s entertainment industry.

We mentioned Music Row before, but it offers much more than The Original Tin Roof.

Music Row is home to record label offices, radio stations, recording studios, and free music.

We’re talking about a fantastic blend of respectable musicians performing well-known country tunes and insane artists belting incredible original compositions.

If you stand outside, you can listen for free, and the majority of honky tonks don’t demand that you buy any food or drinks in advance.

Keep your eyes open for the centerpiece, “Musica,” which is a massive bronze statue created by Alan LeQuire.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Drury Plaza Hotel Nashville Downtown

48. Marathon Village

1305 Clinton St STE 100 Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 327-1010 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Built in 1881, Marathon Village is a former auto factory made of brick that now houses shops, offices, and historical information.

Searching for cheap things to do in Nashville?

Stroll, explore, shop, or learn something new at the Marathon Village.

What was previously Marathon Motor Works is now a diversified area with wineries, shops, and music studios coexisting.

Four of the eight remaining Marathon automobiles are still on display, which is a treat for visitors and car enthusiasts.

Among the must-dos are free tastings at Grinder Switch and Jack Daniels Distillery.

There is also free parking, albeit limited, so we recommend parking on the street.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites Nashville Near Vanderbilt

49. Music City Center (Also Known As Music City Convention Center)

201 Rep. John Lewis Way S Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 401-1400 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Music City Center, Nashville’s convention center, is a 2.1 million square foot facility that opened in 2013 and is situated in the city’s downtown.

A trip to Music City would be incomplete without a stop at the Music City Center.

It’s a cutting-edge convention center with plenty of space for your next meeting or convention.

If you’re only passing through, several rooms will keep you busy for quite some time.

There are numerous souvenir and music stores, the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, and a free indoor exhibit.

Tours are free and can run anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour.

There are parking fees in their garage, but you can find free parking if you park a few blocks away on Lea Avenue.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Nashville Downtown Stadium

50. What Lifts You Mural

302 11th Ave S Nashville, TN 37203 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

What Lifts You is a painting by Kelsey Montague that features two elaborate, white lace wings embellishing a dark wall.

You may have completed your list of free things to do in Nashville, TN, at this point, but consider adding the “What Lifts You Mural.”

Pose strategically between two enormous wings Kelsey Montague made and dubbed “the Gulch angel wings.”

Montague is renowned for painting wings in several places with a particular theme (in connection with the city’s personality).

While her wings in Universal Studios, Los Angeles, have a television screen and stars, Nashville’s wings come replete with instruments.

In addition to providing a chance for an Instagram post, taking a photo with a Montague mural allows people to consider what makes them happy.

If there is a line when you arrive, don’t be discouraged.

The line moves quickly, and you will not be required to stand for 5 minutes.

If you’re unsure how to get there, take an Uber.

It will drive you directly to the mural.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Nashville Vanderbilt, an IHG Hotel

Activity Guide 

Comparing attractions: which one is right for you.

In Nashville, music fills the air everywhere you go. 

The free live music is like a delicious treat for your ears, and it’s a real slice of Nashville’s unique personality, found in every nook and cranny.

Yet, if your soul yearns for tranquility, the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park is a breath of fresh air. 

A walk there feels like stepping into a living painting, with history whispering in your ear.

In contrast, CHAUVET Arts is a feast for the eyes, not to be missed. 

The vibrant artworks filled the space, and the creative energy was palpable. 

Each piece told a unique story, and I found myself getting lost in their beauty. 

It was an unforgettable experience that left me inspired and in awe.

How I Picked The Activities

As a passionate traveler and lover of all things family-friendly, I’ve personally experienced the attractions in Nashville. 

But that’s not all—I’ve also conducted thorough research and had conversations with locals and fellow tourists I’ve encountered.

I wanted to ensure that each attraction offered something special and catered to the diverse interests of families.

Our Rating Method 

 I rate these activities based on the following criteria: 

• Family-Friendliness: I use this criterion to assess the family-friendliness of every activity. Is it suitable for families with kids? Is this activity safe, engaging, and fun for children? I ask myself these questions in order to rate the family-friendliness of every attraction. 
• Accessibility: This evaluates how accessible the attraction is for families. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have ample parking space? Is it wheelchair accessible? I consider these factors when evaluating the accessibility of every activity. 
• Educational Value: This rates the educational benefits that the attraction offers. Does it provide learning opportunities to kids? Can it teach kids any lessons? These are the questions I ask myself when rating the activity’s educational value. 
• Safety: I use this to measure the safety of every activity. Does it take place in a safe and secure environment? Are there safety precautions to ensure the safety of its visitors? These are important factors when evaluating the activity’s safety. 
• Fun Factor: This rates the level of engagement, enjoyment, and excitement that the activity offers. Is it fun for the entire clan? Will it create memorable and positive experiences for kids? These questions are essential whenever I rate the activity’s fun factor. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is nashville city famous for.

Nashville is famous for its vibrant music scene, earning it the nickname “Music City.” It is the birthplace of country music and home to legendary venues like the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame, attracting musicians and music lovers from around the world.

Why Do People Love Nashville So Much?

People love Nashville for its lively atmosphere, rich history, and diverse cultural offerings. From live music on every corner, delicious Southern cuisine, and iconic landmarks like the Parthenon, Nashville offers a unique blend of entertainment, hospitality, and charm that captivates visitors and residents alike.

Is There Any Free Admission To Museums In Nashville?

Yes. Museums like Tennessee Agricultural Museum, Tennessee State Museum, and Cooter’s Place are always free to enter.

Are There Any Free Parks Or Outdoor Spaces To Visit In Nashville?

Yes. Centennial Park is a popular choice with its iconic Parthenon replica, and the nearby Warner Parks offer miles of hiking trails and beautiful scenery.

Can I Enjoy Live Music For Free In Nashville?

Many bars and venues in Nashville offer free live music performances, especially along Lower Broadway and the Honky Tonk Highway, where you can listen to talented musicians without cover charges.

Conclusion 

There’s something truly enchanting about this city, offering a bountiful selection of activities that won’t cost you a dime.

Of all the free things to do in Nashville, TN, Free Live Music was my ultimate favorite. 

It’s amazing how the city’s music can fill you with so much energy and joy. 

Don’t get me wrong, the peaceful Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park and the eye-catching CHAUVET Arts are also great choices. 

But nothing beats the fun of the lively music scene. 

Each place shows you a different side of Nashville, but the sound of live music across the city touched my heart the most.

Nashville: 21 Free Things to do in Music City

Last Updated on April 17, 2024 by Jackie

Discover the rhythm of Nashville with free concerts at the Country Music Hall of Fame’s Ford Theater or dance along to live music at the weekly Musician’s Corner event. For a taste of history, explore the city’s iconic landmarks like the Parthenon replica in Centennial Park, all without spending a dime.

Nashville, Tennessee, has become a go-to spot for music and food enthusiasts worldwide. But with its rising fame comes soaring prices and costly attractions. Fear not, though! Music City offers a slew of free activities that let you soak up its lively culture and charisma without emptying your wallet. Whether you’re exploring the iconic sights of Music Row or savoring some famous hot chicken, Nashville serves up a bounty of no-cost fun that’ll make your visit unforgettable. Check out our list of free things to do to make the most of your Nashville adventure without breaking the bank!

Nashville Tennessee on a Budget

Free Things to Do in Nashville

Nashville, also known as Music City, is a vibrant city filled with culture, music, and history. While there are many fun things to do in Nashville that can be costly, there are also plenty of free activities to enjoy. Here are some free things to do in Nashville.

Free Nashville Walking Tour

For a comprehensive look at Nashville’s key sites, join a walking tour with Free Tours by Foot . These 90-minute tours offer a fantastic overview of the city’s vibrant music scene and history. While the tours are free, your local guide works hard to ensure a great experience, so consider tipping $10 to $20 per person based on your enjoyment and the tour’s quality.

If walking the city isn’t for you, Viator and Get Your Guide have some really great paid tours by golf cart, car, bus or bike.

If you prefer exploring at your own pace, why not create your own free walking tour with the GPSMyCity app? With over 1,000 cities worldwide to choose from, you can design your adventure or follow a pre-designed route. Each walk includes a route map and GPS navigation. The best part is that it works offline, so you can wander without worrying about data. Check out the Germantown tour, one of our top picks, to discover this historic Nashville neighborhood’s 19th-century homes and buildings. Download the GPSMyCity app and start exploring!

The Parthenon

Dreaming of seeing the majestic Parthenon in Athens , but Greece isn’t in your immediate plans? Fear not! Nashville, Tennessee, offers a spectacular alternative. A replica of the Parthenon , built-in 1897, stands tall in Centennial Park, allowing you to marvel at its grandeur and explore its history. While a small fee is required to access the on-site museum, seeing it from the outside will not cost a dime! 

Centennial Park

Centennial Park in Nashville isn’t just about the Parthenon replica; it’s a sprawling oasis of fun and history! With 132 acres of greenery, you can enjoy lakes, picnics, and trails. History buffs will love the monuments, and active folks can hit the volleyball courts, dog park, or the new Sportsplex with a pool and ice skating rink. Plus, don’t miss the Band Shell for free concerts, movies, and performances – even Bruce Springsteen has graced the stage!

Free Dance Lessons

Get ready to groove at Centennial Park’s Events Pavilion every summer Saturday! Nashville’s finest musicians take the stage, dishing out everything from country jams to the waltz. Can’t dance? No problem! There are friendly folks ready to give you some moves – or at least a good laugh trying!

Stay updated on events in Centennial Park .

Musicians Corner

Looking for a rockin’ Saturday afternoon in Nashville that won’t cost a dime? Musicians Corner in Centennial Park has your back! Every Saturday, catch some of the city’s best musicians jamming out. With food trucks, crafts, and ever-changing lineups, it’s the perfect spot to chill, groove, and soak up Nashville’s vibes – all for free!

Nashville’s Music Row is the ultimate launchpad for music careers, buzzing with recording studios, radio stations, and clubs. This historic neighborhood has shaped country music, hosting stars who’ve recorded their hits in its iconic studios. Beyond music, Music Row’s streets are lined with charming historic homes-turned-offices, adding to its allure. 

Bluebird Cafe

For music lovers visiting Nashville, the Bluebird Cafe is a must-visit venue, known for hosting industry giants in an intimate setting. Arrive before 6:00 pm to skip the cover charge and enjoy fantastic performances with just a minimum order of $10 per person. With its cozy vibe, excellent sound, and rich history, the Bluebird offers a diverse range of genres from country to rock, making it a true Nashville gem for an unforgettable night out.

Go Down to a Nashville Honky Tonk on Broadway

For an authentic Nashville adventure, stroll down Broadway, where iconic honky-tonks line the street, each pouring out lively music. With no cover charges and a variety of genres from country to blues, you’re sure to find a band that strikes a chord. Don’t miss the sidewalk buskers adding to the vibrant atmosphere, and who knows, you might even bump into a country music star like Vince Gill, adding a memorable twist to your Nashville experience!

Check out all of the Honky Tonks on Broadway here.

Tennessee State Museum

History buffs, don’t miss the Tennessee State Museum in Nashville, a treasure trove of exhibits exploring the state’s diverse history. From the Civil War to Civil Rights, the museum’s galleries are packed with artifacts and interactive displays. Plus, admission is free, making it a perfect way to spend an afternoon diving into Tennessee’s fascinating past!

Walk or Bike The Nashville Greenway

Get active and enjoy Nashville’s natural beauty on the Greenway , a network of 86+ miles of paved trails winding through parks and neighborhoods. These paths aren’t just for biking or walking – they’re a gateway to Nashville’s serene landscapes, offering a peaceful escape from city life.

Gaylord Opryland Resort

You don’t need a hotel room to enjoy the splendor of Nashville’s Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center . A half-day visit is all you need to be mesmerized by its breathtaking gardens, complete with a winding river and cascading waterfalls, all under a stunning glass atrium. For about $15 per person, hop on a boat ride along the river for a unique perspective on the resort’s beauty. If boating isn’t your thing, simply strolling through the atrium and gardens offers a peaceful escape from the city. Don’t miss this Nashville gem on your trip!

Take a Hike

Looking to swap city life for nature’s embrace? Percy Warner Park and Radnor Lake State Park near Nashville are perfect for a hike. Percy Warner Park boasts miles of trails winding through forests and hills, catering to all skill levels. For a scenic stroll, head to Radnor Lake State Park, where over 6 miles of trails loop around the lake, offering glimpses of deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of birds. Accessible trails are available for strollers or wheelchairs, making these parks a serene and nature-filled escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Cumberland Park

Nashville’s brand new 6.5 acre Cumberland Park along the waterfront is a public park that is open daily all year around. There is an outdoor amphitheater and four sections with varying activities:

• The Explorer Trail meanders through meadows where you’ll find tons of butterflies.
• The Scoops has misting sprays in which you can cool yourself on a hot day.
• The Hollow has a great playground and splash park for the kiddos.
• The Gorge features a rock climbing wall and ropes course.

Country Music Hall of Fame

While visiting the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville can be pricey, there’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy it. Score a Community Counts Passport from a Nashville Public Library, and two people can get in for free . For country music fans, this museum is a must-visit, housing iconic memorabilia like Elvis Presley’s “Solid Gold” Cadillac and gold piano. Dive into the history and evolution of country music through exhibits showcasing its most significant moments. Don’t miss live music, educational programs, and special events, making your visit both informative and entertaining!

Explore the Free Hall of Fame Hatch Show Print Gallery

Although the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum isn’t free, you can still enjoy a freebie at the Hatch Show Print Gallery, located in the museum’s lobby. This gallery showcases historical posters and prints from the renowned Hatch Show Print company, offering a fascinating glimpse into the world of printmaking and music history.

Walk of Fame Park

Nashville’s Walk of Fame might not have the same fame as Hollywood’s, but it’s a must-see for any country music fan. Dedicated to honoring musicians who’ve made significant contributions to the genre, it features stars for legends like Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and Loretta Lynn. Located across from the Country Music Hall of Fame, it’s a convenient stop to pay homage to country music greats while exploring the city.

Stare at the Sun

For space enthusiasts, a trip to Vanderbilt University’s Dyer Observatory is a must. Featuring a top-notch solar telescope for safely observing the sun, it’s a unique experience. Dive deeper into the observatory’s history and research with a free tour every Tuesday from 9 am to noon.

Fort Nashborough

Nestled near Nashville’s riverfront, Fort Nashborough is a replica stockade built in 1779, offering a glimpse into the city’s early days. Initially a defense against indigenous attacks and wild animals, it now stands as part of Nashville’s Parks and Recreation. Explore the fort’s history with a self-guided tour daily from 9 am to 4 pm, free of charge.

Tour the State Capitol

The Tennessee State Capitol is a stunning National Historic Landmark completed in 1859, serving as the state legislature’s home ever since. Explore its grandeur with free tours, including visits to the governor’s office, House of Representatives chamber, and Senate chamber. Admire its breathtaking architecture, featuring impressive columns and intricate details, making it a must-see piece of Tennessee history in Nashville.

Yes, the Nashville area has wineries!! And along with sipping (not free) wine, you get free music.  Check these out:

• Sumner Crest Winery in nearby Portland has award winning wines, and free live music twice a month during the summer. There are no seats available, so be sure to bring along a folding chair or blanket.
• Arrington Vineyards in Arrington also has award winning wines, and has live music from April through October. Seating is available at this winery, but bring along a blanket just in case it’s too busy.
• Beachaven Winery in Clarksville is the oldest single-family owned winery in Tennessee. It holds concerts from May through October on Saturdays. The music leans more toward a jazz feel. They also have a DJ on Thursday nights in June and July.

Goo Goo Shop

As you wander along the Riverfront, don’t miss the Goo Goo Shop , a must-visit for delicious Goo Goo Clusters. Made since 1912, these treats blend caramel, peanuts, marshmallow, and chocolate. Grab a free sample and enjoy a cup of coffee or soda as you explore the rest of the Riverfront’s attractions and shops.

Farmer’s Market

The Nashville Farmer’s Market is a bustling spot for tourists and locals alike, located in north Nashville and open daily with free admission. Browse stalls offering fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local goods. Don’t miss the special events like live music, cooking classes, and food trucks. Hungry? Head to the Market House, a popular restaurant within the market, serving up Southern comfort food and international cuisine to satisfy any craving.

Other Things to Do, How to Get There, Where to Stay and Eat

Nashville is bursting with free fun for visitors! Explore historic neighborhoods, groove to free concerts, and soak up the city’s vibrant vibes without spending a dime. Check out my other tips for a sensational Nashville visit, including must-see spots, travel tips, dining delights, and cozy stays!

Although I receive a small commission from my affiliates, such as Viator and Booking.com, there is no extra cost to you.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Important Information

• Travel Advisories

Quick Links

• TRAVEL GUIDES
• PLAN A TRIP

Contact Info

Palm Beach Gardens, FL

Call Us 24/7

561-290-7411

[email protected]

Recent Posts

Innsbruck: Travel Guide to Austria’s Alpine Capital

Dream Vacation Planning: A Step-by-Step Guide

Dachau Concentration Camp Visitor’s Guide

St. Lucia: Discover the Heart of the Caribbean

Sunfest: A Local’s Guide to Florida’s Biggest Party

Spring Break: The 7 Hottest Destinations for 2024

Privacy Overview

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

30 Best Things to Do in Nashville, From Civil Rights Exhibits to Live Music

Locals weigh in on how to explore this energetic capital city.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

If Nashville holds a spot on your must-visit list, you’re not alone — in 2022, more than 14 million people made their way to Music City to take in the sights, sounds, and tastes of the cultural hub (and yes, that number includes bachelorette parties ). While Nashville’s reputation as a country music destination precedes itself, there’s more to Tennessee’s capital than the honky tonks on Broadway, the Grand Ole Opry, and The Bluebird Cafe (although travelers should make a point to visit all three). It’s home to top-tier museums, sprawling green spaces, historical markers, and no shortage of places to eat or grab a drink. “The quality of the food and restaurant scene has really exploded over the past 10 years,” says Meredith DiMenna, director of programming for Hutton Hotel and its live music venue, Analog . No matter where you choose to dine in Nashville, your itinerary must include two things: hot chicken and a meal at a meat-and-three (more on that later). “ Prince’s is my go-to for hot chicken, while Puckett’s always impresses with their meat-and-three,” says chef Maneet Chauhan, who owns three restaurants in Nashville: Chauhan Ale & Masala House , Tansuo , and The Mockingbird .  

Famous music sights and non-negotiable Southern dishes will quickly fill up your days and nights over a long weekend getaway, but there’s so much more to discover within the metro area. To help narrow down the list of the best things to do in Nashville, we tapped a few residents, DiMenna and Chauhan included, to share what’s on their “must-do” agenda for anyone spending time in Tennessee’s largest city.  Related : 5 Best Hotels in Nashville

Listen to live music at Robert’s Western World.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

If you can only fit in one stop along Nashville’s famed Honky Tonk Highway, make sure it’s Robert’s Western World . “You can’t beat the traditional country music every night there,” says Stephen Rose, founder of The Peach Truck . If you’re feeling a bit peckish, order a fried bologna sandwich to go with your cold beer.

Have a meal at a meat-and-three.

This Southern food concept is straightforward: Pick your meat and your three sides. “[Meat-and-threes] used to be pretty much the only food in Nashville, before it became the food Mecca it is today. There are so many good places that offer this, [but] I’m partial to Martin’s BBQ ,” says DiMenna.

Snap a photo in front of a mural.

Jason Kempin/Getty Images

You’ve probably seen one of Nashville’s many murals on Instagram, but nothing compares to seeing them in real life. Get a picture with artist Kim Radford’s Dolly Parton in East Nashville, or line up in front of the black-and-white “Nashville Looks Good on You” mural in 12South. No matter which neighborhoods you visit, you’ll probably run into one of the city’s many large-scale creations.

Get tickets for a show at The Bluebird Cafe.

Robert Alexander/Getty Images

You never know who will stop by The Bluebird Cafe to play a few songs — Maren Morris, LeAnn Rimes, and Taylor Swift among them. The listening room only has 90 seats, so it’s an intimate and special experience for both the performers and the audience. “It’s such a great spot for a date night, girls’ night, etc., and you could be watching the next biggest country music superstar,” says chef Chauhan.

Tour the Civil Rights Room at the Nashville Public Library.

Paul Natkin/Getty Images

The Civil Rights Movement in Nashville, which took place during the 1950s and 60s, is well documented inside the Nashville Public Library. Powerful photographs showcase the work and events that eventually led to desegregation, and there’s also a symbolic lunch counter, where you can read the Ten Rules of Conduct carried by the protesters during the sit-ins.

Walk around one of Nashville’s many public parks.

Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure

In between meals, you may want to get your steps in, and there are myriad ways to do so. “When visiting, you must walk across the [John Seigenthaler] Pedestrian Bridge, and check out Nashville’s selection of public parks,” says DiMenna. Centennial Park and Bicentennial Park are two of the more well-known spots, but there’s also Shelby Park, Percy Warner Park, and Cumberland Park. “It’s easy to forget that there is a lot of nature in Nashville, and if the weather is right — don’t try this when it’s super hot — you can get the feeling of being on a true nature walk while you’re still within city limits,” she adds.

Snack on a donut from Five Daughters Bakery.

Courtesy of Five Daughters Bakery

If you have a sweet tooth, schedule a trip to Five Daughters Bakery . There are several locations around Nashville, but the 12South store might be the most picturesque. Once you’ve acquired a donut or two, you can take an Instagram-worthy photo in front of the iconic “I Heart Donuts” mural.

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

To truly understand Nashville and its role in music over the years, you must visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and its extensive collections. “In a stroll through the galleries, [you will] experience everything from Thomas Heart Benton’s The Sources of Country Music painting and Elvis Presley’s 1960 Gold Cadillac to the American Currents: The State of the Music exhibit, which takes a broad look at the genre’s contributions to art and life across the last year,” explains Lisa Purcell, executive vice president of external affairs for the museum.

Get a taste of hot chicken.

rez-art/Getty Images

Have a cold glass of sweet tea on standby when dining on hot chicken, especially if you’re sensitive to a bit of heat. “Hot chicken is obviously a must in Nashville, and my go-to is Bolton’s in East Nashville. You can’t ever have a bad experience there,” says Rose.

Shop around 12South.

Courtesy of Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp.

One of the more walkable areas in Nashville, the 12South neighborhood is filled with coffee shops, bakeries, and boutique stores. Imogene + Willie is known for denim pieces, and White’s Mercantile, owned by Holly Williams, is billed as a “general store for the modern tastemaker.”

Pick up local produce at a Nashville farmers’ market.

Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

If you want to experience Nashville as the locals do, head to one of its many farmers’ markets. “I recommend 12 South Farmers Market in beautiful Sevier Park on Tuesday nights and Richland Park Farmers’ Market on Saturday mornings,” says chef Tony Mantuano, who, along with his wife Cathy, guides the food and beverage program at The Joseph, a Luxury Collection Hotel.

See a show at the Grand Ole Opry.

Self-described as the “home of country music,” the weekly live country music radio broadcast has been around since 1925. From 1974 on, it’s been housed in the Opry House, where acts ranging from up-and-comers to big names play multiple nights a week. If you want backstage access before the show, be sure to book a tour in advance.

Book a stay at one of Nashville’s best hotels.

A tourist destination as large as Nashville must meet demand with a variety of accommodation options. Choose from luxurious newcomers like Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Nashville and Conrad Nashville , or veer more toward boutique hotels — Graduate Nashville , Hutton Hotel, Bobby Hotel , and Urban Cowboy are all great choices. The latter, according to Rose, is also ideal for pizza and cocktails. “The vibe is always super on point, with the location housed in a gorgeous mansion in East Nashville,” he adds.

Bowl a few games at Pinewood Social.

A night out in Nashville doesn’t have to include fighting the crowds along Broadway. Instead, you can opt for dinner, drinks, and bowling at Pinewood Social . The six lanes made of reclaimed wood are open seven days a week, and ball and shoe rentals are included.

Buy a pair of cowboy boots.

When in Nashville, right? There are several places to purchase your own pair of boots, including Boot Country , Nashville Boot Co. , and Betty Boots . If you want an extra-luxe experience, custom boot fittings are offered in the VIP loft at Lucchese . “Guests of The Joseph have unique access to schedule a custom fitting at the Lucchese store in The Gulch. Guided by their experts, [you] choose [the] style, materials, shape — everything from toe to heel,” says chef Mantuano.

Pose in front of The Parthenon.

Bruce Yuanyue Bi/Getty Images

Photo ops are widely available in Nashville, but The Parthenon might be one of the more impressive ones. “The Parthenon in Centennial Park is a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, and it's so unique and stunning to see,” says chef Chauhan.

Get your biscuit fix at The Loveless Cafe.

Courtesy of Loveless Cafe

Biscuits are par for the course in the South, so you can’t leave Nashville without having one or two for breakfast. The Loveless Cafe has been serving its famous biscuits to Nashvillians and visitors since 1951; try them with country ham, fruit preserves, or the red-eye gravy.

Explore the National Museum of African American Music.

The National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) opened in early 2021, preserving and celebrating the Black music experience across genres. Interactive technology lives alongside artifacts, memorabilia, and clothing to create six engaging exhibits that highlight the history of hip-hop, gospel, blues, jazz, R&B, spirituals, and more. “This is the newest edition to the music museums, and it is absolutely incredible. You can spend hours in here if you’re a music fan,” says DiMenna.

Make a souvenir at Hatch Show Print.

Jackson Vance/Travel + Leisure

Part of the Country Music Hall of Fall and Museum, Hatch Show Print has been creating designs and show posters with its vintage type and hand-carved imagery since 1879. Visitors can stop by to learn more about the letterpress print and design shop or they can opt to make something themselves. “Advance book your slot in hands-on workshops, called Block Parties, which invite participants to use some of Nashville’s most recognized imagery to make Hatch Show Prints of their own,” says Purcell.

Swing by the Nashville Zoo.

Misty Mullican/Getty Images

“The Nashville Zoo is a great place to visit for the day, [and it's] enjoyed by both adults and children,” says chef Chauhan. The expansive zoo has more than 3,000 animals and hosts programming that includes overnight camping experiences, classes, and more.

Karaoke at Santa’s Pub.

For more than a decade, Santa’s Pub has been welcoming guests 21 and over for cold beer and karaoke. Like many things in Nashville, it’s something you have to see to believe. “Sunday night at Santa’s Pub. Just trust me,” says Rose.

Stroll around Lower Broad in the evening.

The Lower Broad section of the Broadway Historic District has a variety of sights and sounds to experience. Along with Robert’s Western World, you’ll find Tootsies Orchid Lounge , Legends Corner , and Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row . “It captures the pulse of the city, and you get to see and hear so many amazingly talented musicians,” says chef Chauhan.

Go for a hike at Radnor Lake.

“Radnor Lake is a thing of beauty — our family loves to enjoy great hikes, beautiful scenery, wildlife, and more here, and it’s only minutes away from downtown Nashville,” says Rose. The state park boasts over 1,300 acres of nature preserve, and the Lake Trail is accessible for those with all-terrain wheelchairs.

See a performance at Ryman Auditorium.

Chef Mantuano says that seeing a show at the Ryman is a “truly religious experience.” Known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” the Ryman has more than 2,300 seats and has hosted acts like Elvis, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Lizzo, and Harry Styles over the last 130 years. To immerse yourself in this landmark’s history, take a tour (either guided or self-guided) through the venue.

Spend a day at Cheekwood.

Depending on the season and the weather, Cheekwood Estate and Gardens is the perfect place to explore with the whole family. The 1930s estate includes a 30,000-square-foot mansion and 55 acres of gardens. Visitors can purchase tickets to access the botanical garden, arboretum, and museum, and there’s also a 1.5-mile woodland trail with outdoor sculptures.

Attend CMA Fest.

Larry McCormack/ABC via Getty Images

“ CMA Fest , which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023, is the largest and longest-running country music festival in the world,” says Purcell. Recent performers have included Darius Rucker, Luke Combs, Lainey Wilson, and BRELAND. The 2024 festival will be held June 6 through June 9.

Catch one of the rotating exhibits at the Frist Art Museum.

Housed in a building that formerly served as the city’s main post office, the Frist Art Museum has no permanent collection, and its mission is to “inspire people through art to look at their world in new ways.” “This is a really approachable yet super high-quality museum. They do a great job of mixing internationally known selections with local artists,” says DiMenna.

Learn about Nashville’s recording history at RCA Studio B.

RCA Studio B , described by Purcell as a “time capsule and working studio,” is a Nashville music staple, known for its role in making Nashville the recording center it is today. A guided tour allows you to see where the “Nashville Sound” came to be, and where country and pop stars like Dolly Parton, Charlie Pride, Waylon Jennings, and Elvis once recorded some of music’s most iconic songs.

Browse the Fisk University Galleries.

Travelers interested in American art and American history should make a point to visit Fisk University, Nashville’s historically Black university. The Fisk University Galleries — including the Carl Van Vechten Gallery and the Aaron Douglas Gallery — showcase pieces by Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keefe, and Diego Rivera, among other artists.

Hear the Nashville Symphony.

Music comes in all forms in Nashville. If your tastes lean more classical than country, listening to the Nashville Symphony at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center may be more up your alley. “The building is an architectural gem with incredible acoustics, and the musicians are among the world’s best,” says chef Mantuano.