The National Museum of African American Music officially opened its doors in 2021, and celebrates nearly every genre of music — country, R&B, rap, soul, blues, and jazz. Visitors are treated to galleries, documentaries, and interactive experiences that showcase the impact that Black Americans have had and continue to have on music.

Museum of African American Music

Originally the Union Gospel Tabernacle church, Ryman Auditorium is known as the "Mother Church of Country Music." Founder Thomas Ryman intended it to be for revivals and gospel events, Helen Keller used to give lectures there, and the Grand Ole Opry is hosted there to this day — it’s a must-see for any music lover.

Ryman Auditorium

Robert's Western World boasts that locals have voted the spot as the best honky tonk in the city several years in a row. The cowboy boot sign lit up on lower Broadway makes it easy to find, and it’s a great place to stop and grab a bite to eat and a drink just about any time of the day, with performances beginning as early as 11 a.m.

Robert's Western World

Historically beloved for decades, the Exit/In has been a Nashville legend since its founding in 1971 and has hosted acts such as Chuck Berry, Leonard Cohen, R.E.M., The B-52s, and The Red Hot Chili Peppers. Recently sold, The Tennessean reports it will reopen under the same name, with live music returning in April 2023.

Nashville's Exit/In

Nashville has a Walk of Fame that might just introduce visitors to a few new names, in addition to the ones they know. Located downtown on Demonbreun Street between 4th and 5th Avenues South, stars on the Walk of Fame include Trace Adkins, Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, Little Richard, Keb' Mo', Cece Winans, and Trisha Yearwood.

Nashville's Walk of Fame