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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Downtown Nashville

Historical sites

Walking through the physical remnants of the past provides a perspective that the present day often lacks.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
St. Mary of the Seven Sorrows image 1
St. Mary of the Seven Sorrows image 2
St. Mary of the Seven Sorrows image 3
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Oldest church in the city offers historic architecture and breathtaking stained glass that create a peaceful, prayerful space. Angelic hymns from choir and organ fill the air, enhancing the spiritual feel. Friendly locals share rich history, making visits deeply meaningful.

Oldest church in the city with excellent upkeep preserving its rich history and beautiful design. History sheets and friendly locals share detailed background during visits.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful historical site with amazing architecture and artwork."

"The Mass here is peaceful and prayerful, a true meditation spot."

"You'll find convenient, free parking available during services."

Good to know

1

Parking on weekdays costs approximately $10 per hour.

2

Confession is available at 11:30 before mass at 12:10.

3

Mass is celebrated Ad Orientem, with the priest facing the high altar.

02
Printers Alley image 1
Tourist attraction

Narrow alley with vibrant blue lights and live music offers a lively, scruffy vibe. Rich history shines through hidden bars and entertainment. Energy buzzes here, blending nightlife with historical charm.

A historic alley with a rich history and many hidden bars and restaurants. It features live music and entertainment alongside its historical significance.

People are saying

"I loved the bars; they had a great vibe and amazing music."

"It's a cool historic area with amazing hidden bars and music."

"I found it to be a unique and nice alley to stroll into."

Good to know

1

Printers Alley features a variety of bars, restaurants, and live music venues.

2

The area is quieter than Broadway, making it a nice alternative for nightlife.

3

Many bars in Printers Alley offer live music, especially jazz.

03
Museum of Christian & Gospel Music image 1

Museum showcases Christian Gospel music history with interactive exhibits and live performances. Visitors enjoy memorabilia and video footage that inspire and uplift. A small coffee bar with live music creates a warm, welcoming vibe.

Exhibits offer a great journey through Christian and gospel history with a focus on Christian Gospel music.

People are saying

"I found this museum to be a great and awesome addition."

"You can enjoy an amazing cup of coffee here."

"You'll love the great journey through Christian and gospel history."

Good to know

1

The museum offers self-guided tours, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace.

2

Plan to spend at least an hour to fully appreciate the exhibits.

3

Visitors can enjoy free coffee during their visit.

04
The Station Inn image 1
Live music venue

Small venue with intimate stage and excellent sound offers authentic bluegrass shows. Old stone walls reflect its historic legacy. Cold beer and good pizza add to the warm, divey atmosphere.

Old stone walls hold a rich Bluegrass legacy here. The venue stands as a historic music spot with deep roots in its community.

People are saying

"The music here is authentic bluegrass, just incredible."

"I found the live music here to be raw, real, and top-notch."

"This historic venue has a rich Bluegrass legacy."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to secure a good seat, especially for popular performances.

2

Entrance fee varies by performance; check ahead for pricing.

3

Children under 12 can enter for free with an adult.

05
Chief's on Broadway image 1
Live music bar

Six floors showcase curated memorabilia and unique furniture, blending history with vibrant energy. Live music, including dueling pianos, fills the air while the rooftop offers Broadway views and a lively seating area. Hidden WWI confessional and a balcony with pews reveal rich historical layers.

Rich hidden history and memorabilia fill the venue, including a WWI confessional on the fourth floor and a balcony with pews. The space honors its past with Easter Eggs from songs and a detailed history tour.

People are saying

"This bar's atmosphere is calm and relaxing, a great escape."

"The live music here is top-notch with great sound and high energy."

"I learned so much about the building's history and unique features on the tour."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events to ensure seating.

2

Expect a cover charge for live performances, typically around $10.

3

The venue hosts live music every weekend, starting at 8pm.

06
Robert's Western World image 1

Honky-tonk bar offers authentic character with walls full of country music memorabilia. Live bands play traditional country music creating a lively, nostalgic vibe. Servers share stories that highlight its rich history, making it a true landmark bar.

Country music history fills the atmosphere, visible in the decor and vibe. Servers share stories that bring the landmark bar's past to life.

People are saying

"You have to try the fried bologna sandwich; it's delicious."

"The live music here is great and world-class."

"It's a historic place with authentic country and western music."

Good to know

1

Robert's Western World serves a recession special: a beer and a full meal for $6.

2

Live music starts at 6:30 PM, featuring traditional country acts.

3

The venue hosts a band every hour, with a tip bucket for donations.

07
John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge image 1

Long pedestrian bridge with historic steel truss design offers stunning skyline views and a peaceful walk. Nighttime lighting creates a romantic ambiance popular with couples and photographers. Daytime brings lively vibes from street musicians adding musical charm.

The bridge features a historic steel truss design that adds vintage charm. It serves as a repurposed transportation hub now for pedestrians and cyclists, offering breathtaking views of the skyline and river.

People are saying

"I loved the nice view of the city and river from the bridge."

"I thought the pedestrian bridge was really cool, especially at night."

"The historical sites offer breathtaking views of the skyline and river."

Good to know

1

The bridge is free to access.

2

Paid 3rd party parking is available on both ends of the bridge.

3

There is an elevator to access the bridge for those who cannot do the stairs.

08
Alley Taps image 1

Intimate basement bar offers live classic rock in a cave-style setting with an authentic back alley vibe. Rich haunted history adds depth, with guides sharing detailed stories. Laid-back atmosphere makes conversation flow easily.

Rich haunted history defines this spot, with detailed stories shared by knowledgeable guides. The place holds a strong sense of its historic past that adds depth to the visit.

People are saying

"I found the live music here to be amazing and versatile."

"I found a good range of local craft beer on tap."

"The Historical Sites have a cool, laid-back vibe."

Good to know

1

The entrance to Alley Taps is through an alley.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially during live performances.

3

Customers can request songs during live performances.

09
Nashville Barrel Company Downtown Whiskey Distillery - Bourbon & Wine Bar image 1

Rustic distillery offers whiskey blending sessions and a secret back bar for intimate tastings. Guides share immersive whiskey history with engaging stories. Cozy yet classy vibe includes a legendary dog adding unique charm.

Guides provide an immersive journey through barrels and the history of whiskey. They share informational stories about the company and the craft, making the history accessible to those unfamiliar with it.

People are saying

"The whiskey knowledge and passion of the staff made the experience stand out."

"I found the atmosphere and vibe here to be really cool."

"I learned a nice history lesson about the place and whiskey."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for tastings, especially on weekends.

2

The distillery offers wine and whiskey tastings throughout the day.

3

Private tastings can be arranged for groups; inquire in advance.

10
The Hermitage Hotel image 1

Historic hotel shines with elegant architecture and luxurious rooms offering mountain views. Bar buzzes with creative cocktails and a live piano player, blending classic charm with a vibrant social scene. National Historic Landmark status highlights its stunning entrance and rich veranda history.

A National Historic Landmark with a stunning main entrance and lobby. The veranda and balcony hold rich history, while the communal areas show opulent and fascinating historical details.

People are saying

"The hotel staff's attentive service and friendly attention to detail made it magical."

"I enjoyed the proper cocktails at the bar."

"The staff's attention to detail made my visit to the historical sites feel so special."

Good to know

1

Afternoon tea is available, but it can be pricey at $30.

2

The hotel is centrally located near Broadway and other attractions.

3

Expect some noise from the bathroom fan during your stay.

11
Goo Goo Chocolate Co image 1

Bright, retro-inspired space offers interactive candy-making kiosks and a window to watch chocolates being made. Walls showcase historic candy trivia and pop culture moments, making it a lively spot for hands-on fun and learning.

An engaging history of candy unfolds with fun trivia and classes that teach how to make a classic chocolate treat. Walls display historic factoids featuring pop culture icons and moments from iconic films and TV shows.

People are saying

"I loved making my own custom chocolate cluster!"

"It's a really cool spot for delicious treats."

"I loved learning the history and making my own candy."

Good to know

1

Tickets for chocolate-making classes sell out quickly, so purchase in advance.

2

Cash is not accepted; only credit cards and mobile payments are allowed.

3

Hands-on chocolate-making classes are available, offering a unique experience.

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Downtown, Nashville

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