To be sure, any Nashville sightseeing list will include a few nods to the city’s country music roots. If you’re looking for live performances, don’t be confused by Music Row; it’s home to the record labels. Instead, head downtown. The honky-tonks on Broadway have live music all day, but we suggest checking out the schedule for the Ryman Auditorium, original site of the Grand Ole Opry and host to performers of all genres. Nearby, the $123.5 million Schermerhorn Symphony Center is the headliner in the city’s growing arts scene. Nashville also has a wealth of historic homes, many decorated for the season.
WHAT TO DO
Belle Meade Plantation
Greek Revival mansion built in 1853. “They have fabulous tours, and there’s something special going on every weekend in November
and December,” says Smith. 5025 Harding Rd., 615/356-0501, www.bellemeadeplantation.com.
The Bluebird Cafe
“You can’t possibly come here enough,” says McAlpine of the tiny club and restaurant where singer/songwriters provide the
entertainment. “You’ll never forget the experience.” 4104 Hillsboro Rd., 615/383-1461, www.bluebirdcafe.com.
Cheekwood
This Georgian mansion was home to the family of Joel Cheek, creator of Maxwell House coffee, and is now a botanical gardens
and museum. “In spring and summer the gardens are lovely,” says Smith, “and at Christmas the home is decorated beautifully.”
1200 Forrest Park Dr., 615/356-8000, www.cheekwood.org.
Christ Church Choir Christmas Concert
More than your regular holiday concert. “Every wonderful Christmas song you ever wanted to hear, live,” says Smith. And perhaps
see some country music stars to boot. “It’s unbelievable.” Dec. 5–6, 15354 Old Hickory Blvd., 615/834-6171, www.christchurchnashville.org.
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
“Features different country music careers,” says McAlpine of the museum, which houses bejeweled stage costumes, cool cars,
an amazing collection of instruments, and original recordings. 222 Fifth Ave. S, 615/416-2001, www.countrymusichalloffame.com.
Frist Center for the Visual Arts
“A must,” says Smith. “Their traveling exhibitions are incredible.” And the Art Deco building alone is worth a tour. 919 Broadway,
615/244-3340, www.fristcenter.org.
“A Country Christmas” at Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center
“Opryland Resort is spectacular this time of year, with millions of lights,” says Smith. “They have incredible ice sculptures,
and the Rockettes perform.” Nov. 14-Jan. 4, 2009; 2800 Opryland Dr.; 888/777-6779; www.gaylordhotels.com.
Nashville Ballet
Featuring the Nashville Symphony, this year’s performance of The Nutcracker is all new, recreating 1897 Nashville. Dec. 12–14
and Dec. 19–21; 3630 Redmon St.; 615/255-2787; www.nashvilleballet.com.
Nashville Zoo at Grassmere
“I take my grandchildren here every time they visit,” says Spalding. 3777 Nolensville Rd., 615/833-1534, www.nashvillezoo.org.
The Parthenon
“If I were to pick something that is iconic Nashville, I’d choose The Parthenon, which was built for the state’s 1897 Centennial
Exposition. It’s beautiful and sits in the middle of the city with a spectacular park around it,” says Smith. Centennial Park,
2600 West End Ave., 615/862-8431, www.nashville.gov/parthenon.
Robert’s Western World
The spot for local color, says James: “The bar doubles as a boot store and has the best house band in the city on Friday and
Saturday nights.” 416 Broadway, 615/244-9552, www.robertswesternworld.com.
Ryman Auditorium
Originally the Union Gospel Tabernacle, built in 1892, it’s called the Mother Church of Country Music, as it was home to the
Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974. Now artists from all genres perform here. 116 Fifth Ave. N, 615/889-3060, www.ryman.com.
Schermerhorn Symphony Center
“The symphony has a terrific schedule,” says Smith. “This time of year they perform Handel’s Messiah, and the Pops Series
is also wonderful.” Handel’s Messiah: Dec. 18–20. 1 Symphony Place, 615/687-6500, www.nashvillesymphony.org.
Sommet Center
Popular venue for concerts, sporting events, and other entertainment, including Dancing With the Stars and the 40th Annual
CMA Awards in 2006. 501 Broadway, 615/770-2000, www.sommetcenter.com.
The Station Inn
McAlpine suggests catching the hilarious “Doyle & Debbie Show,” shown every Tuesday. 402 12th Ave. S, 615/255-3307, www.stationinn.com.
Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge
Historic hangout for country icons such as Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, and Waylon Jennings. 422 Broadway, 615/726-0463.
RESOURCES: Mary Spalding, Spalding Antiques and Interiors, 615/352-1272; Bobby McAlpine, McAlpine Booth & Ferrier Interiors, 615/259-1222, www.mcalpineboothferrier.com; Elizabeth James, Event Planner, 615/356-3930.
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