Appropriately named “Music City,” Nashville, Tennessee is home to budding country artists and live music venues with entertainment year-round. Music City offers much more than what its name suggests — it also boasts historic landmarks, family-friendly attractions, and museums. When determining the best time to visit Nashville, the weather should be considered. Summers feature warm temperatures ideal for boating trips on the Cumberland River, while a winter trip puts you right in the heart of holiday celebrations and elaborate decorations at the Opryland Hotel. Book a stay at one of many Nashville vacation rentals today. Take a look at what each season offers so you can take advantage of the plethora of activities in this iconic city.
Nashville in the Summer
When fun in the sun is one of your vacation goals, Nashville delivers during the summer months. Temperatures average from 65-degrees to 86-degrees with July topping the charts as the hottest month of the year. Cool off when the sun is beating down by taking advantage of the refreshing feel of the waters of the Cumberland River, which sits right in the heart of the city, or Lake Watauga. If you’re wondering what to pack for your Nashville vacation, a swimsuit is a must-have. Suit up and stop by Nashville Boat Rentals to reserve your very own pontoon boat to take out on the river or lake, or opt to get up close and personal with the water when renting a kayak or paddleboat for the day.
Summer is also the perfect time to nab some fresh produce from the Nashville Farmers’ Market to take back to your vacation rental. Pick your own produce from the farmers’ selections or select cheeses and meats from local ranchers. The Farmers’ Market is also home to local artisans and crafters, offering locals and tourists a vast selection of souvenirs and handmade gifts. When hunger strikes while you’re out and about, head over to Music Row to dine at restaurants that offer a river view, such as the Hard Rock Cafe and the Blue Moon Waterfront Grille.
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Nashville in the Fall
As the colorful leaves begin to drop in the Midwest, you won’t want to miss out on the scenic drives in Nashville. From your vacation rental, take a trip to the Cheekwood Harvest pumpkin patch that is open from mid-September through the end of October each year. Decorate scarecrows with the kids, carve and paint your own pumpkins, and tour the pumpkin house. Cheekwood Harvest also features a beer garden that is open on the weekends, serving pub fare and craft brews with live bluegrass music each evening.
Fall is also the best time to participate in the festivals Nashville has to offer. With average temperatures in the 60s and 70s, tourists often know what to pack to keep themselves warm while attending the Nashville Chalk Festival in late September. This festival offers two days of painting, food, and family fun. Tour the streets and admire the chalk illustrations by local artists or feast on Southern cuisine by the food vendors available. Nashville also hosts the Fall Fest at The Hermitage in the fall, held at Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage home. The weekend includes music performance, historical exhibits, and art displays by local artists.
Nashville in the Winter
Colder temperatures during a Nashville winter do not have to put a damper on your plans. The city offers many indoor activities designed to keep your toes tapping and your body warm. Reserve a ticket for a country music gala at the Ryman Auditorium or spend the day learning about the history of country music at the Country Music Hall of Fame.
The Opryland Hotel is also a hotspot during the holidays, with extravagant decorations, tree-trimming activities, and even a visit from Santa. Warm up while on the move with a trolley tour of the city that loops around Music Row and offers 15 stops to board or exit. History buffs often enjoy the warmth and historic memorabilia available at the local museums, such as the Tennessee State Museum, the George Jones Museum, and the Lane Motor Museum.
Nashville in the Spring
When the flowers start to bloom and the cool breezes of spring warm-up Nashville, head to Music Row to enjoy the sights and sounds the country music capital of the world has to offer. Hotspots such as the Tin Roof, Red Door Saloon, and Legend’s Corner Bar feature live music from dusk until dawn. Grab a bite to eat at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge while up and coming artists serenade the crowds. In the spring, many of the Music Row establishments host rooftop performances so you can enjoy the sounds and the warmer weather with average temperatures in the 70s.
While Music City is known for its music, springtime is one of the best times to visit Nashville if you’re art enthusiasts. The city hosts the First Saturday Art Crawl where art galleries open their doors for free so you can view the galleries. In the spring, First Tennessee Park also offers free performances by Nashville Sounds with breathtaking views of the greenways. Get out and about in the spring with a bike ride through Shelby Bottoms Nature Center and Greenway.
The Best Time to Visit Nashville
While winter in Nashville offers colorful holiday displays and trolley tours and summer in Music City gives you the opportunity to explore the nearby lakes and rivers on a boat, the spring season is often deemed the best time to visit. Temperatures in the 70s give you the chance to explore the city’s shops, restaurants, bars, and outdoor gardens and nature centers in complete comfort. Although traveling to Nashville in the winter or fall may provide you with discounts on vacation rentals or airfare, the beauty of the spring season and the multiple festivals and musical performances make this destination ideal during the peak season.
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