 | Free Things to do in Nashville |
Nashville, Tennessee is known for its vibrant music scene, southern charm, and rich history. But, did you know that there are also many free things to do in the city? Here are some of the top free attractions and activities in Nashville:
1. Visit the Coooter's Museum
If you're a fan of "The Dukes of Hazzard", the Cooter's Museum and Store is a popular attraction in Nashville, Tennessee, located slightly outside the downtown area. The museum was opened in 1999 by actor Ben Jones, who played the character of "Cooter" in the popular TV series "The Dukes of Hazzard".
The museum showcases a wide range of memorabilia from the show, including costumes worn by the cast, props used during filming, and even the iconic General Lee car used in the series. Visitors can also see behind-the-scenes footage, interviews with the cast, and other artifacts that provide a glimpse into the making of the show.
One of the highlights of the museum is the General Lee car, which was a customized 1969 Dodge Charger used by the main characters, Bo and Luke Duke, to navigate the roads of Hazzard County. The car, which features a bright orange paint job with the Confederate flag on the roof, has become an iconic symbol of the show and a favorite of fans. When we visited we were able to sit in each vehicle and get a souvernir photo for $29.99 (April, 2023).
Cooter's also features a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and memorabilia related to the show such as T-shirts, hats, mugs, and other collectibles.
2. Visit the Garden Conservatory at the Gaylord Opryland Resort
Right next door to the Grand Ole Opry, you'll find the Garden Conservatory at the Gaylord Opryland Resort. They have a large indoor garden atrium with numerous tropical plants, waterfalls, dancing fountains and an indoor boat ride. And if you're hungry, they have a restaurant in the center.
The conservatory is a climate-controlled paradise that boasts more than 10,000 plants, flowers, and trees from all over the world, including the rare and exotic. It is a breathtaking display of nature's beauty that includes waterfalls, fountains, streams, and a variety of wildlife such as turtles, fish, and birds.
The conservatory is divided into several different sections, each with its own unique features and flora. The Cascades section features a 44-foot-tall waterfall that cascades down a rock wall and feeds into a pool filled with koi fish. The Serenity section is a peaceful retreat that includes a meditation garden and a collection of bonsai trees. The Orchid section is dedicated to showcasing the beauty and diversity of orchids, with over 600 plants on display.
In addition to the conservatory, the Gaylord Opryland Resort also features several other indoor gardens, including the Delta Atrium, the Garden Terrace, and the Magnolia Atrium. Each of these areas has its own unique character and features, such as a replica of a southern mansion and a sculpture garden.
3. Visit the Country Music Walk of Fame
Across the street from the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum you'll find the Country Music Walk of Fame.
The sidewalk is lined with bronze plaques embedded in the pavement, each one featuring the name and likeness of a country music star, such as Jimi Hendrix, Hank Willimas Sr., Little Richard, Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, Kid Rock, Roy Orbison, Reba McEntire and many more. The plaques are arranged in chronological order, so visitors can walk through the history of country music from its early beginnings to the present day.
The Walk of Fame was established in 1967 by the Country Music Association (CMA) as a way to honor the pioneers and trailblazers of country music. The first inductees were Jimmie Rodgers, Fred Rose, and Hank Williams, three of the most influential figures in the genre's history.
Each year, the CMA selects a new group of inductees based on their contributions to country music and their impact on the industry.
4. Walk the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge
The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge is an iconic landmark in Nashville, Tennessee, spanning the Cumberland River and connecting downtown Nashville to the bustling neighborhood of East Nashville. The bridge, named in honor of a well-known journalist and civil rights advocate, is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering stunning views of the city and a unique perspective on the river below.
The bridge was originally built in 1909 as a railroad bridge, but was converted to a pedestrian and bike bridge in the early 2000s. The renovation project was completed in 2003 and the bridge was reopened to the public as a safe and accessible way to cross the Cumberland River.
The bridge is over 2,200 feet long and is one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world. It is a suspension bridge with a distinctive arched design that is visible from many points in the city. The bridge is painted a vibrant shade of green and is adorned with decorative lighting that adds to its beauty at night.
The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge is a popular spot for walking, jogging, and biking. It offers stunning views of the Nashville skyline, the river, and the surrounding landscape. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction.
The bridge also plays host to several annual events, including the Music City July 4th celebration, where thousands of people gather to watch fireworks over the river. In addition, the bridge is a popular spot for photographers, who come to capture the stunning views and the unique architecture of the bridge.
5. "What Lifts You" Mural
The "What Lifts You" mural in Nashville is a popular and highly Instagrammable attraction located in the Gulch neighborhood of the city. Created by renowned street artist Kelsey Montague, the mural features a pair of larger-than-life wings in black and white.
The mural is more than just a beautiful piece of art; it is also interactive. Visitors are encouraged to stand in front of the wings and take photos, posing as if they are being lifted up by the colorful feathers. The hashtag #WhatLiftsYou has become associated with the mural, with visitors sharing their photos on social media and adding their own captions to the message of the mural.
The wings themselves are a symbol of freedom, inspiration, and positivity, inspiring visitors to spread their own wings and pursue their dreams. The heart in the center of the mural represents love, compassion, and unity, reminding us of the importance of kindness and empathy in our daily lives.
In addition to the Nashville mural, Montague has created similar "What Lifts You" murals in other cities around the world, such as Boston, New York City – Nolita, Seattle, Denver, Los Angeles- El Paseo and Los Angeles- Los Cerritos, Wrocław- Poland, Fanzara- Spain, Sydney- Australia, Port Elizabeth- South Africa and many more. Each one has its own unique design and message. Her artwork has become a symbol of hope and positivity in a world that often seems divided and chaotic.
6. Tennessee State Museum
The Tennessee State Museum is a world-class museum located near downtown Nashville, Tennessee. It is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and culture of the state of Tennessee, from prehistoric times to the present day. Plan on spending a few hours in here.
The museum first opened its doors in 1937 and has since grown to become one of the largest state museums in the United States, with more than 60,000 square feet of exhibition space. It features exhibits on a wide range of topics, including Native American history, the Civil War, the history of music in Tennessee, and the state's role in the Civil Rights movement.
One of the most impressive exhibits in the museum is the Tennessee Time Tunnel, which takes visitors on a journey through the state's history, from its earliest days as a frontier territory to the present day. The exhibit features interactive displays, artifacts, and multimedia presentations that bring the state's past to life.
7. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
Right next to the Tennessee State Museum you'll find the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park which is a 19-acre public park.
The park features a variety of attractions, including a 200-foot granite map of Tennessee, a World War II Memorial, a fountain, and a visitor center. The park also features a series of walking trails and bike paths, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the most striking features of the park is the 95-bell carillon, which plays music at regular intervals throughout the day. The carillon is located in a tower that rises 145 feet above the park, offering visitors panoramic views of the city.
Another highlight of the park is the Rivers of Tennessee Fountains, a series of 31 water fountains that represent the state's major rivers and tributaries. Visitors can walk among the fountains and even dip their feet in the water on hot days.
The park is also home to a number of monuments and statues that commemorate key events and individuals in Tennessee's history, including a statue of President Andrew Jackson and a monument to the state's three grand divisions.
Throughout the year, the park hosts a variety of events and activities, including live music performances, festivals, and educational programs. Visitors can also take guided tours of the park, led by knowledgeable staff members who can provide insights into the park's history and design.
8. Take a stroll through Centennial Park
This large urban park is located near Vanderbilt University and is home to a variety of attractions, including the iconic Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, Greece. The inside is now a museum and art gallery (there is a charge to go in to the Parthenon). The park also features walking paths, a lake which is a popular spot for fishing and paddle boating, and a variety of other amenities that make it a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Another highlight of Centennial Park is the sunken garden, which is located near the Parthenon. The garden features a variety of colorful flowers and plants, as well as a fountain and several benches for you to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Throughout the park, you'lll also find numerous monuments and statues honoring Tennessee's history and its people. Some of the most notable monuments include the Confederate Soldiers and Sailors Monument, the Women's Suffrage Monument, and the Monument to the Great War.
