By Cathy C. Hall
Nashville is known worldwide as Music City, and with good reason. Recording studios dot Music Row and artists still come to Nashville to get that once-in-a-lifetime break. But if you think Nashville is just music, it's time to think again. Nashville has something for the sports, science, arts and animal lover. And, of course, the music lover.
Country Music Hall of Fame
A trip to Nashville has to start where country music got its start. Kids and adults alike will enjoy learning about the history of country music, especially if a trip to historic RCA Studio B is included. And top off your musical history tour with a trip to the Grand Ole Opry.
Frist Center for the Visual Arts
Kids are an important part of the Frist tradition, so keep a keen eye out for Swifty, the Frist mascot. He can direct you to ArtQuest, where more than 30 hands-on activities wait for your budding Picassos.
Nashville Shores Water Park
Cooling off at Nashville Shores Water Park is a summertime tradition in Nashville. Kids will especially thrill to one of the park's newest rides, the Music City Racer. But don't forget to leave time for Twin Cyclones, the Lily Pad Pool, beach Volleyball and lots more.
Adventures Science Center
Don't miss the Sudekom Planetarium, where the stars shine every night and every day, too! The Adventures Science Center is packed with exciting exhibits, like the Blue Max, a flight simulator, Adventure Tower--a tower full of activities--and BodyQuest, a day in the life of your body.
Nashville Zoo
How would you like to pet an alpaca? You can, if you squeeze in a visit to the Nashville Zoo. You can also trek through Gibbons Island and see these playful monkeys in a natural habitat. Giant anteaters, white tiger cubs, and an African Crested Porcupine are ready to greet you, too. And if you're lucky, you'll get a glimpse of the wildest things you've never seen in the mysterious exhibit, Unseen New World.
Pick-A-Sport
Nashville is home to the Nashville Sounds, a AAA-affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers. So, if you're a baseball fan, head to Greer Stadium for hot dogs and hot plays. But if winter sports are your passion, check out the Nashville Predators, the city's own professional hockey team. Or try the Quarterback Sneak and snag tickets for the Tennessee Titans, one of the hottest pro football teams in the NFL.
Belle Meade Plantation
If you're a horse lover, then don't pass up a chance to see Belle Meade Plantation. This historic site was once known for its thoroughbred horses, like Seabiscuit and Secretariat. Spend a day in 1800's Nashville roaming the grounds and gardens of this majestic plantation.
The Parthenon
It's not everyday that you get the opportunity to see the Parthenon, or the world's only full-sized replica of this famous Greek temple that stands in Nashville's city limits. And while you're there, check out Athena. She's the tallest indoor structure and goddess in the Western world.
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About the Author:
Cathy C. Hall is a freelance writer and humor columnist. When she’s not writing funny essays for publications like Modern Senior Living, she writes articles for websites like WOW! Women on Writing. Sometimes she just makes up wild stories; she's currently making up a young adult novel. Hall received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in broadcast journalism from Valdosta State University, graduating magna cum laude.
