10 Free Things to Do in Nashville

Nashville is the heart of Music City, where country music stars, rockers, and other artists come to record, perform, and live. But it’s also a great place to visit for those who want to experience the city without spending a fortune. From exploring the great outdoors to taking in some of the city’s best music venues, there are plenty of free things to do in Nashville. Here are 10 free activities that you should check out in Music City.

1. Catch a Live Performance at the Bluebird Cafe

If you’re looking for a free evening of entertainment, the Bluebird Cafe is the place for you. The iconic music venue has been hosting live performances by country music stars and songwriters since 1982. You can catch a show for free every evening during their open mic night. It’s a great way to experience some of Nashville’s best music without breaking the bank.

The Bluebird Cafe is also home to a variety of other musical events, such as songwriters’ nights and special performances by up-and-coming artists. These events are usually free or have a very low cover charge. So, if you’re looking to enjoy some live music in Nashville, the Bluebird Cafe should be at the top of your list.

The Bluebird Cafe is located at 4104 Hillsboro Pike, Nashville, TN 37215.

2. Explore the Beauty of Radnor Lake

Radnor Lake is a 1,400-acre natural area located just outside of Nashville. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the beauty of nature. You can take a leisurely stroll around the lake, or hike the trails to enjoy the scenic views of the lake and the surrounding area. Bird-watching is also popular at Radnor Lake, with over 200 species of birds that call the area home.

The lake also offers plenty of educational opportunities, with ranger-led hikes, lectures, and other events throughout the year. Best of all, admission to Radnor Lake is free, so you can enjoy the beauty of nature without spending a dime.

Radnor Lake is located at 1160 Otter Creek Road, Nashville, TN 37220.

3. Take in the Views at the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge is a great place to take in the views of downtown Nashville. The bridge spans the Cumberland River and offers spectacular views of the city skyline and the surrounding area. It’s especially beautiful at night, when the city lights up the sky.

The bridge is also a great place for a leisurely stroll or a romantic evening out. You can take in the views of the river and the city as you enjoy some fresh air. Best of all, admission to the bridge is free, so you can enjoy the views without spending a dime.

The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge is located at 745 Riverfront Dr, Nashville, TN 37206.

4. Soak Up the Sun at Centennial Park

If you’re looking for a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, Centennial Park is the place for you. The 132-acre park is located in the heart of Nashville and offers plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. You can take a stroll on the walking paths, relax on the grassy knolls, or take a dip in the lake. There’s also a playground and a variety of sports facilities, such as a golf course and tennis courts.

Centennial Park is also home to a variety of special events throughout the year, such as concerts, movies, and festivals. Best of all, admission to the park is free, so you can enjoy the outdoors without spending a dime.

Centennial Park is located at 2500 West End Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203.

5. See the Animals at the Nashville Zoo

The Nashville Zoo is a great place to see a variety of animals from around the world. The zoo features more than 350 species of animals, including African penguins, red pandas, and giraffes. You can also take a ride on the zoo’s train or carousel, or explore the exhibits at the reptile house or the aviary. Best of all, admission to the zoo is free, so you can enjoy the animals without spending a dime.

The Nashville Zoo is located at 3777 Nolensville Pike, Nashville, TN 37211.

6. Tour Historic Mansker’s Station

Mansker’s Station is a historic homestead that was built in 1779 by German immigrant Kasper Mansker. The station is now a living history museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the past. You can take a tour of the station and explore the various buildings and period artifacts. The tour is free, so you can explore the station without spending a dime.

Mansker’s Station is located at 705 Caldwell Drive, Goodlettsville, TN 37072.

7. Visit the Parthenon

The Parthenon is a full-scale replica of the ancient Greek temple located in Nashville’s Centennial Park. The building was originally constructed for the 1897 Centennial Exposition and was intended to be a temporary structure. However, it was so popular that it was kept and is now an iconic landmark in the city. You can take a tour of the building and explore the various exhibits inside. Admission to the Parthenon is free, so you can explore the building without spending a dime.

The Parthenon is located at 2500 West End Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203.

8. Enjoy a Picnic at Shelby Park

Shelby Park is a great place to enjoy a picnic in the outdoors. The park is located on the east bank of the Cumberland River and offers plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. You can take a stroll on the walking paths, relax on the grassy knolls, or take a dip in the lake. The park is also home to a variety of sports facilities, such as a golf course and tennis courts.

Best of all, admission to the park is free, so you can enjoy a picnic without spending a dime. Shelby Park is located at 2100 Shelby Avenue, Nashville, TN 37206.

9. Catch a Show at the Grand Ole Opry

The Grand Ole Opry is one of the most iconic venues in Nashville. The historic venue has been hosting live performances by country music stars and songwriters since 1925. You can catch a show for free every evening during their open mic night. It’s a great way to experience some of Nashville’s best music without breaking the bank.

The Grand Ole Opry is also home to a variety of other musical events, such as songwriters’ nights and special performances by up-and-coming artists. These events are usually free or have a very low cover charge. So, if you’re looking to enjoy some live music in Nashville, the Grand Ole Opry should be at the top of your list.

The Grand Ole Opry is located at 2804 Opryland Drive, Nashville, TN 37214.

10. Explore the Country Music Hall of Fame

The Country Music Hall of Fame is a great place to explore the history of country music. The museum offers a variety of exhibits and interactive displays, as well as a collection of artifacts from the past. You can also take a guided tour of the museum for a more in-depth look at the history of country music. Best of all, admission to the museum is free, so you can explore the history of country music without spending a dime.

The Country Music Hall of Fame is located at 222 5th Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37203.

Nashville is a great city to explore without spending a fortune. From exploring the great outdoors to taking in some of the city’s best music venues, there are plenty of free things to do in Music City. Whether you’re looking for a free evening of entertainment or a leisurely stroll in the park, there’s something for everyone in Nashville. So grab your friends and family and start exploring the city for free.