Best Ways to Explore Music City: Nashville, Tennessee

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Country music may have been Nashville’s initial entry onto the national scene, but this magnetic city is also home to spectacular history, art, and cultural institutions. You can get an exquisite wine or a fine glass of bourbon as well. The musical heartbeat of Nashville should not be overlooked, however. There is a wealth of venues and historic sites that pay tribute to country music and showcase the brightest stars, as well as up-and-coming artists. Learn about the best ways to experience all that Nashville has to offer…

GO BACKSTAGE AT THE GRAND OLE OPRY

Long acknowledged as the “Country Music Capital of the World,” Nashville stands as a place of pilgrimage for aspiring country music artists and fans of the musical genre alike. And the Grand Ole Opry is one of the most recognizable attractions in Music City. Elevate the experience for your top performers by letting them walk the hallowed halls of the venue with a backstage tour. They will see photographs and hear stories about the legendary country music stars who have performed on the celebrated stage. It is also well worth a peek at the unique dressing rooms and a stop at the studio where the infamous TV show Hee Haw was filmed. Overall, the tour will give incentive earners a behind-the-scenes look that few get to experience.

SIP WINE AND TOUR BELLE MEADE MANSION

Give your attendees a firsthand look at the lavish lives of the well-to-do in1800s Nashville with a morning or afternoon spent at Belle Meade Mansion. Built during 1853-1854, the soaring home is a fine example of Greek revival-style architecture. Guided tours of the mansion’s stunning interior and the 32-acre manicured grounds provide insights into the people who lived there. Visitors who take a tour can also enjoy complimentary red, white, sparkling, muscadine, and blackberry wines from the onsite winery. Next-level experiences include private tastings and food-and-wine pairings.

GET UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH TENNESSEE HISTORY

The history of Tennessee extends well beyond its country music origins. Your high achievers and guests can learn fascinating facts about the Volunteer State with a trip to the Tennessee State Museum. There are also rotating art and cultural exhibits to view. The downtown Nashville location of the Tennessee State Museum is worth a mention, as well. It is conveniently situated within walking distance of other attractions, restaurants, and shops.

FIND BOTANICAL BLISS AT CHEEKWOOD ESTATE & GARDENS

It is nearly impossible not to be impressed by the beauty of the floral displays at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens. Each garden features different species of flowers, including Japanese, dogwood, boxwood, and rose varieties. There is even an herb garden. Your incentive earners can soak up precious moments of serenity while exploring the chromatic flower display, sculpture trail, and greenhouses that comprise the 55-acre botanical garden. They can also tour the estate house and take a ride on a train in the Turner Seasons Garden.

SEE THE STUDIO WHERE COUNTRY GREATS RECORDED

It may not receive the widespread recognition that other Nashville attractions do, but historic RCA Studio B is a major highlight for many visitors. And it is no wonder when you consider its illustrious history. Music industry legends including Elvis, the Everly Brothers, and Chet Atkins have recorded songs here. It is not just the palpable sensation of stardust that makes a tour of RCA Studio B worthwhile. The studio put Nashville on the map as an international recording center. It is important to note that the studio tour departs from the nearby Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum ─ giving your top performers a great reason to check out this attraction while you are there!

SAVOR FINE WHISKEY AND BOURBON AT A HISTORIC DISTILLERY

Whiskey and bourbon connoisseurs are not the only ones who will enjoy getting a drink or two at Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery. With a legacy that dates back to the late 1800s, the distillery is a physical representation of a whiskey industry milestone. Specifically, founder Charles Nelson was among the first distillery owners to sell whiskey in bottles, which was a departure from the jugs and barrels used previously. This milestone is significant because he was able to achieve widespread distribution as a result.

VIEW STATUES AND ART IN NASHVILLE’S OWN PARTHENON

Greece is not the only place where you can see the world-famous Parthenon. A full-scale replica of it greets visitors in Centennial Park. Models of the statues found in the original ─ which include a towering statue of Athena ─ along with a notable art collection, round out the reasons why many visitors count the Parthenon among their favorite attractions. Visiting the magnificent building after sundown, when it is illuminated, is highly recommended.

STROLL THE STREETS WHERE COUNTRY MUSIC HISTORY WAS MADE

Music Row does not get as much attention as Broadway, due in part to its comparatively nondescript appearance, but it is at the epicenter of Nashville’s country music history. During a guided tour, your attendees can learn all about the recording studios, record companies, and music publishers that line its storied streets. When the tour wraps up, a large selection of restaurants and shops is conveniently within reach.

VIEW THE SKYLINE FROM A LOUNGE ROOFTOP

For an exclusive view of Music City’s skyline, Harriet’s Rooftop is a must! This open-air lounge features modern Swedish décor and lush greenery in the heart of the city. Light appetizers and bespoke drinks are served tableside and feature sustainable as well as seasonal items.

ENJOY COCKTAILS, APPETIZERS, OR A MEAL WITH LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Whether it’s appetizers on the rooftop lounge, cocktails, and cold brews at the bar, or dinner in the swanky supper club, The Twelve Thirty Club offers an experience that won’t soon be forgotten. Live music that plays homage to Nashville’s roots is what makes this venue truly special on any of its three floors.

CAP OFF THE DAY WITH LIVE MUSIC AT TOOTSIE’S ORCHID LOUNGE

What kind of true Nashville experience would it be without catching live music at a bar that has hosted country music greats? From up-and-coming artists to stars at the top of their game, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge has established its place on the country music scene. In addition to musical performances, scenes from the Loretta Lynn biopic “A Coal Miner’s Daughter” were filmed here. While the venue itself verges on the small side, patrons can take their pick of live performances on the multiple floors that are found at the lounge.

These attractions are proof that you do not have to be a country music superfan to appreciate the bounty that Nashville has to offer. This bustling city, part metropolis, and part small town, has a wealth of art, culture, and down-home good times to enjoy.

Are you considering a travel incentive program? Contact Gavel International to help plan a program that maximizes your budget and elicits raving reviews from attendees.

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Eloisa Mendez

With over 25 years of experience in the meetings and event industry, Eloisa has worked closely with a variety of clients on events ranging from small incentive trips to large corporate meetings. While growing her career at Gavel International, Eloisa has managed all aspects of the event lifecycle, including site selection, creative materials, attendee registration, rooming list and transportation management, entertainment bookings, as well as website development. Eloisa was progressively promoted in recognition of her meeting management expertise, professionalism, and genuine passion for driving improvements within overall event operations. She was recognized as the 2000 Employee of the Year and is currently the General Manager for Gavel International.