Things to Do in Nashville

Tickets, tours and experiences in Nashville, United States

Events in Nashville

196 events

About Nashville

Nashville is Music City, and its live entertainment scene is unmatched for depth and authenticity. The Grand Ole Opry has hosted country music legends since 1925 and continues to present shows year-round at the Grand Ole Opry House, a 4,400-seat venue that is hallowed ground for country music fans. The Ryman Auditorium, the Mother Church of Country Music, is a 2,362-seat former tabernacle with extraordinary acoustics that hosts concerts across all genres. Lower Broadway is the heart of the honky-tonk scene, with venues like Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, Robert's Western World, and Nudie's Honky Tonk offering free live music day and night. Beyond country, Nashville has a thriving rock, indie, Americana, and hip-hop scene with venues like the Basement East, Exit/In, and Marathon Music Works. Nissan Stadium on the east bank of the Cumberland River is home to the Titans and hosts stadium concerts and events including the NFL Draft in 2019. Bridgestone Arena downtown is home to the Predators and one of the top-rated arenas in the country for concerts. Geodis Park, one of the largest soccer-specific stadiums in the world, is home to Nashville SC. The CMA Fest each June draws tens of thousands of country music fans for four days of performances. Nashville's warm climate allows for outdoor events from April through October, and the indoor venues keep the music playing year-round.

Highlights

  • The Grand Ole Opry is the longest-running radio broadcast show in history
  • Ryman Auditorium offers legendary acoustics in a National Historic Landmark
  • Lower Broadway's honky-tonks provide free live music every day and night
  • Bridgestone Arena is consistently ranked among the top concert venues in America

Tips for Visiting Nashville

Grand Ole Opry tickets can be purchased for specific seat sections or backstage tour packages

Lower Broadway honky-tonks are free to enter but tipping the musicians is expected and appreciated

CMA Fest in June offers incredible value with dozens of performances on one ticket

Book Ryman Auditorium shows early as the intimate 2,362-seat venue sells out fast for popular acts

Frequently Asked Questions About Nashville

What is the difference between the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium?

The Grand Ole Opry is a show, not a venue. It performs year-round at the Grand Ole Opry House, a 4,400-seat venue east of downtown. The Ryman Auditorium downtown was the Opry's home from 1943 to 1974 and is now an independent concert venue. The Opry occasionally returns to the Ryman for special winter residencies.

Where can I see live music for free in Nashville?

Lower Broadway is lined with honky-tonks that feature live bands all day with no cover charge. Robert's Western World, Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, and Layla's Honky Tonk are among the most popular. The Gulch and East Nashville neighborhoods also have bars with free live music on select nights.

What major sports events are in Nashville?

The Predators play NHL hockey at Bridgestone Arena from October through spring. The Titans play NFL football at Nissan Stadium from September through January. Nashville SC plays MLS soccer at Geodis Park, which seats 30,000 and is one of the largest soccer-specific stadiums in North America.