Legendary for its musical roots, “Music City” is enjoying a whole new moment in the spotlight, with hoards of newcomers eager to be part of the scene. But even if you don't give a fiddle about live entertainment, you can still enjoy Nashville's many charms.
Everyone makes a beeline for the Grande Ole Opry, a country music show that's been running since 1925, but you can catch up-and-comers in venues across town. Though the emphasis is on twang, indie rock is huge too – just ask transplants Jack White and the Black Keys, plus scores of local bands.
You can pay tribute to Hank, Patsy, Johnny and other stars at the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum. The museum complex also houses Hatch Show Print, a letterpress shop known for its creative posters. Catch an exhibit at Frist Center for the Visual Arts (formerly a post office) or tour the Jack Daniels Distillery. And definitely devour Nashville's red-hot food scene in Hillsboro Village, East Nashville or hip and historic Germantown.