Nashville, Tennessee: Music City and More

A recent trip to Nashville, Tennessee found me in the right place at the right time. I didn't know it but I had arrived just a few days before many of country music's greats were arriving to town to make themselves available to their biggest fans. In preparation for these happenings, Nashville pulled out all the stops with free concerts in the parks and at the malls. Musicians were even playing on the street corners! As a musical aficionado, my heart had to skip a beat at the sight of all these people putting their passion on display for all to enjoy. In Nashville, artists at all levels perform, from the experienced and world renown Carrie Underwood to the up-and-comers, like Pete Stringfellow.

Nashville is a place I will definitely return to. I am a fan of all musicians who are passionate and have soul. In this manner, Nashville does not disappoint. This is no one-stop travel spot when it comes to the musical paradise that awaits: blue-grass, rock, true blues, jazz area all available in addition to country music.

But if music to you is not all it is to me, there is more to Nashville than music. This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. There are ample Civil War historical sights to visit. This Congress-designated National Heritage Area includes The Battle At Nashville Driving Tour among other nearby historical locations. This particular driving tour denotes one of the last major engagements of the Civil War before the war ended. If this interests you, click here to learn more about how you might tour it. From honoring black Civil War veterans to viewing notable battle locations, there is a volume of history waiting for a new generation to see it.

What really struck me about Tennessee is the vast amount of nature and available opportunities to enjoy trails and campgrounds that exist. The trees are lush and older, the waters are clear and available. There are many swimming holes, like there were in my youth, where people just go and jump in - without paying a fee to access them or having security tell you to get out. You can enjoy hikes at sunrise and the warmth on your face at sunset. Right in Nashville, trails are available to explore.

Two hours outside of Nashville is the famous Chattanooga, where Lookout Mountain is located. You can see seven states from the view at the top of the mountain. Here is more information on where to camp.

There are many dining and shopping choices but the one we chose as a child-friendly location was the Rainforest Cafe. Located in a mall that was hosting a free concert, it was the natural choice, with animatronic creatures moving, indoor "rain storms" and affordable eating options.

Click on these links below to learn about United States Southern culture in these articles:

- US Travel - The South

- US Travel - The Southwest