Your Ultimate Nashville Guide: Experience Music City Beyond the CMA Festival

Hey, CMA Fest fans! Ready to rock out in Nashville this June? While you’re here for the ultimate country music extravaganza, don’t miss out on everything else Music City has to offer. From iconic music landmarks to trendy neighborhoods, here’s how to make your festival trip unforgettable.

Dive into the Roots of Country at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Between festival sets, take a short walk to this must-visit spot. The museum is a gold mine of country music treasures, showcasing artifacts from Elvis Presley’s gold Cadillac to Taylor Swift’s rhinestone guitar. It’s a perfect refresher on the genre’s legends before you see today’s stars live.

Pay Homage to the Man in Black at the Johnny Cash Museum

Just a hop, skip, and a jump from the festival grounds, the Johnny Cash Museum is an intimate journey through the life of Johnny Cash. It’s a heartfelt tribute that any country fan — or music lover in general — shouldn’t skip.

Experience the Buzz of Broadway Street

Looking for the pulse of Nashville’s nightlife? Broadway is your go-to. Packed with bars, eateries, and some of the best live music venues in the country, it’s the ideal spot to see why Nashville earned the name “Music City.” Who knows? You might just catch a surprise performance by a country legend!

Step Into History at the Ryman Auditorium

The Ryman isn’t just an old venue; it’s where the Grand Ole Opry was born. Take a backstage tour or catch a night show at this hallowed hall to truly understand why it’s known as the “Mother Church of Country Music.”

Chill in East Nashville

When you need a break from the festival buzz, East Nashville offers a cooler, laid-back vibe. It’s full of creative eateries, unique shops, and indie music spots that reflect the city’s eclectic culture. It’s the perfect place to see the youthful, trendy side of Nashville.

Unwind at Centennial Park

If you need a moment to recharge, Centennial Park, with its stunning replica of the Parthenon, is your urban oasis. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, check out a local art exhibit, or just relax on the green under the Tennessee sky.

Make sure to step out of the festival grounds and immerse yourself in the rhythm of the city. Enjoy the CMA Fest, and remember, there’s a whole city out there waiting to be explored!