By Lisa Parris
Nashville, Tennessee, is the country music capital of the world. So, it comes as no surprise to discover the country music theme woven into the fabric of many of the city's most popular attractions. There is more to Nashville, however, than boot-scooting and banjos. Just beyond the glitter of Music Row, you'll find river
cruises, fine dining, art museums and even a Greek temple, all gracefully incorporated into the structure of the city.
The Grand Ole Opry
The live concerts at the Opry house regularly top the "Must See" list of Nashville visitors. Showcasing artists such as Trace Adkins, Vince Gill and Carrie Underwood, it's easy to understand the appeal. While the performance schedule isn't generally confirmed until a few days before the show, tickets can be purchased in advance. Even if you're not sure who you're going to see, it's bound to be entertaining.
Grand Ole Opry
2802 Opryland Drive
Nashville, TN
(615) 871-OPRY
www.opry.com
The Country Music Hall of Fame
Come and explore the origins of country music by rummaging through the thousands of stage costumes, instruments and original song manuscripts on display in the Country Music Hall of Fame. In addition to the elaborate assortment of musical memorabilia, the museum also houses an impressive collection of historic videos and original recordings of live music performances.
Country Music Hall of Fame
222 5th Ave. South
Nashville, TN
At Demonbreun, Music Trail
(800) 852-6437; (615) 416-2001
www.countrymusichalloffame.com
The Ernest Tubb Record Shop
Stop by the Ernest Tubb Record Shop and browse the massive collection of both classic and current country music. While you're there, make your way to the back of the store and pose for a photo on the stage where Elvis Presley and Patsy Cline once sang for the Midnite Jamboree radio program.
Ernest Tubb Record Shop
417 Broadway
Nashville, TN
(615) 255-7503
www.etrecordshop.com
The Parthenon
Appropriately dubbed, "The Athens of the South," this full-scale replica of the original Greek Parthenon comes complete with a statue of the goddess Athena. Built to celebrate the city's 100th birthday, the Parthenon currently functions as an art museum featuring a sizable display of both classical and modern works.
The Parthenon
Centennial Park
(615) 862-8431
www.nashville.gov/parthenon/
The General Jackson Showboat
Capture the spirit of the past aboard one of the world's largest paddle wheel vessels. Forget about today's hustle and bustle while floating down the Cumberland River on the 300-foot-long General Jackson Showboat. The ship features four enormous decks, providing passengers with ample room to enjoy the scenery as it rolls by. Ticket prices for lunch and dinner cruises include delicious food and live entertainment.
General Jackson Showboat
2800 Opryland Drive
Nashville, TN
(615) 871-6100
www.generaljackson.com/site/
The Frist Center for the Visual Arts
The Frist is an interactive art center located in the former Nashville post office. Originally conceived as a family-friendly alternative to hands-off art museums, the Frist Center encourages children and adults alike to look at the world in new and interesting ways. The main exhibits change every six to eight weeks, but the active Art Quest center is a permanent fixture.
Frist Center for Visual Arts
919 Broadway
(Between Ninth and Tenth Avenues next to the Union Station Hotel)
Nashville, TN
(615) 244-3340
www.fristcenter.org
About the Author:
Lisa Parris is a freelance writer covering a variety of topics, particularly health and wellness. Her work has appeared in various publications including the "Journal of Comparative Parasitology" and "The Monterey County Herald." She holds a bachelor's degree in biology from Peru State College.
