10 Music Landmarks You Must Visit in Nashville

Nashville isn't just Music City by nickname — it earned the title over a century of shaping country, rock, gospel, and Americana. Whether you're a lifelong country fan or a first-time visitor, these ten landmarks are unmissable.

1. The Grand Ole Opry

The most famous stage in country music. The Opry has been broadcasting live since 1925, making it the longest-running radio show in American history. Seeing a live show here is a bucket-list experience — the six-foot circle of oak wood from the old Ryman stage sits centre-stage, and every artist who performs stands on it.

Top tip: Book a backstage tour to see the dressing rooms and the artists' entrance. Travelling Time tours include Opry tickets wherever possible.

2. Ryman Auditorium

The "Mother Church of Country Music." The Ryman was home to the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974 and remains one of the finest live music venues in the world. The original wooden pews, stained glass windows, and perfect acoustics make every show feel special.

3. RCA Studio B

The birthplace of the "Nashville Sound." Elvis Presley recorded over 200 songs here, including "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" Dolly Parton, the Everly Brothers, and Roy Orbison all cut classics in this intimate studio. Now part of the Country Music Hall of Fame experience.

4. Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum

The Smithsonian of country music. Three floors of exhibits covering everything from Hank Williams' suits to Taylor Swift's guitars. The building itself is architecturally stunning — designed to resemble a bass clef from above.

5. Broadway & Lower Broadway

Nashville's famous honky-tonk strip. Live music pours out of every doorway from 10am onwards. Key stops include:

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge — the legendary bar where songwriters and stars have been drinking since 1960
Robert's Western World — widely considered the best honky-tonk for traditional country
The Stage — three floors of live music

6. Bluebird Cafe

The intimate listening room where Nashville's greatest songwriters perform their own material. This is where Garth Brooks was discovered. With just 90 seats, it's one of the most coveted tickets in town. Arrive early — shows sell out fast.

7. Johnny Cash Museum

The world's largest collection of Johnny Cash artefacts, located on 3rd Avenue South. Handwritten lyrics, stage costumes, instruments, and personal items tell the story of the Man in Black.

8. Music Row

The business heart of Nashville's music industry. This neighbourhood of recording studios, record labels, and publishing houses has been where the deals get done since the 1950s. Look out for "Musica," the iconic nude statue at the roundabout.

9. The Parthenon (Centennial Park)

Not a music landmark, but Nashville's full-scale replica of the Greek Parthenon is extraordinary — and explains why Nashville is also called "The Athens of the South." Inside stands a 42-foot statue of Athena, the largest indoor sculpture in the Western world.

10. The Station Inn

Nashville's home of bluegrass. This unassuming venue in The Gulch has hosted the finest bluegrass and Americana musicians for over 50 years. No frills, no pretension — just world-class musicianship.

Visit Nashville with Travelling Time

Travelling Time runs escorted tours visiting these locations — and many more. Our expert tour managers know Nashville inside out and share the stories you won't find in guidebooks.

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