Nashville, known as Music City, comes alive in June during the CMA (Country Music Association) Fest, drawing music enthusiasts from around the world. My partner and I attended this year’s festivities and took in the beautiful southern charm we eagerly anticipated.
Here’s how to make the most of your trip beyond the festival itself:
Choose your location
Upon arrival, settle into a hotel, ideally, if you have the budget, close to downtown Broadway. During CMA Fest, prices are astronomical for a downtown venue. We chose to stay near Opryland and ventured downtown using Uber or Taxi.
Visit Broadway
This famous street is lined with honky-tonks and live music venues, offering an authentic taste of Nashville’s music scene. Spend the afternoon hopping between bars, enjoying performances by local artists and soaking up the lively atmosphere. Broadway is PACKED during CMA Fest but we enjoyed venturing into the honkytonks during the day.
If you up for diversity, a few short blocks away you can find Printer’s Alley. The nightclubs opened here in the 1940s, and the alley became a showcase for the talents of performers such as Boots Randolph, Chet Atkins, Waylon Jennings, Dottie West, The Supremes, Hank Williams, Barbara Mandrell, and Jimi Hendrix. Today’s nightclubs are the descendants of the saloons, speakeasies, and clubs which developed into the entertainment district still known as Printers Alley.
CMA Fest
Get an early start and head download to Fan Fair X where you can meet artists, try out new gear, and enjoy interactive exhibits. Head outside to explore the downtown CMA stages. Enjoy live music with thousands of other country music fans. Watch various record label accounts to get into exclusive shows happening on rooftops within the core of downtown Nashville.
Book your tickets early to enjoy nightly performances at Nissan Stadium. The stadium hosts the best in country music and is a broadcast for a later date. Since this is a broadcast, expect an amazing night, ah-ha moments, and delays in performances.
Cultural Exploration
Take a break from music to explore Nashville’s cultural offerings. Start at the Country Music Hall of Fame, where exhibits showcase the history and evolution of country music. Don’t miss artifacts from legends like Johnny Cash and exhibits on contemporary stars. Afterward, visit the Frist Art Museum for a dose of visual arts, featuring a range of exhibitions from classical to modern.
In the afternoon, unwind at Centennial Park, home to the Parthenon replica. Relax by the lake or explore the park’s gardens and walking trails. It’s a peaceful retreat from the festival crowds, offering scenic views and a chance to recharge.
The Old Town Trolley provides a much needed break after miles of walking from stage to stage. They offer unlimited hop-on & hop-off as often as you like all day long. It’s a great experience where you can explore Nashville and learn about its history.
Food and Drink Experience
Nashville is renowned for its food scene, so dedicate a day to indulging in local flavours. Start with a Southern-style brunch at spots like Biscuit Love or The Loveless Cafe, famous for their biscuits and gravy. For lunch, dive into Nashville’s iconic hot chicken—a spicy specialty that’s a must-try.
In the evening, explore Nashville’s craft beer and whiskey scene. Visit Fat Bottom Brewing Co or Tennessee Brew Works for locally brewed beers, and then head to a whiskey distillery like Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery or Corsair Distillery for tastings and tours.
Whether you danced on Broadway, met or listened to your favourite artists at CMA Fest, or explored the city’s cultural and culinary delights, you’ve experienced the best of Music City.
Nashville during CMA Fest combines live music, cultural discovery, and Southern cuisine. It’s a city where music resonates throughout the streets, and each corner holds its own unique story, creating an unforgettable destination for music enthusiasts. We’ll be coming back next year to see and experience more of that Tennessee Vibe!
Trina Stewart is the Editor of HOMES+ Locale Magazine. Originally from Cambridge, Ontario, Trina loves exploring the area and embracing the activities, events, and local businesses.
