Why? It is the sound of music that draws thousands to holiday in Nashville, the city that has spawned the world's greatest country music stars and continues to churn out headlining acts. Most of its attractions are music related, but those who travel to Nashville will find some other items of interest, including one of the nation's largest state museums and a beautiful botanical garden.
When? Anytime of year, barring perhaps mid-winter, is a pleasant time to holiday in Nashville, although the city is prettiest in spring when it comes into full bloom. Most of the music events, coupled with arts and crafts fairs, are held in summer between July and September, so this is the most popular time to travel to Nashville.
Who for? A holiday in Nashville is primarily a delight for country music fans, but even those not passionate about the genre will enjoy getting in tune with this entertaining city.
More Info: Before embarking on a holiday in Nashville take a look at our informative Nashville travel guide which gives details of the major local attractions and events.

Greer Stadium © Brent and MariLynn

Country music is synonymous with Tennessee's state capital, the rapidly growing city of Nashville, where the strains of the guitar and accordion are big business, drawing millions of fans to the city every year. Dozens of famous names in the music world have been nourished in Nashville since 1925 when the legendary 'Grand Ole Opry' went on the air, broadcasting weekly shows touting the talents of up and coming singers. It all began in the downtown Ryman Auditorium, originally a church, which became the music hall where the likes of Dolly Parton and Roy Acuff first strutted their stuff.

Visitors still come today to visit Opryland, the resort that incorporates the new Grand Ole Opry, northeast of the city. Daily shows are presented here, and just around the corner is the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Fans also flock to the area known as The District, crammed with nightclubs, bars and restaurants where country music reigns supreme.

Beyond country music, Nashville offers historical interest in the form of the old Belle Meade Plantation, a centre of thoroughbred breeding and training in the past, as well as the Tennessee Sate Museum, filled with exhibits detailing the entire state's history from millions of years ago to the present day. The Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the original in Athens, houses a fine collection of art, and for those who want to experience a bit of Tennessee's beautiful country scenery and rich wildlife, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park isn't far from Nashville.

Everyone, country music fan or not, cannot fail to leave Nashville with their toes tapping!