Nashville is the kind of place that needs to be seen in order to be believed and naturally, you are going to want social proof of your adventures throughout the Music City. Whether you are looking for that perfect post for Instagram, or you want to bring home an image that you can print and frame on the wall, you will want to be sure to stop by the most iconic Nashville landmarks.
While the city is best known for its modern vibe and country heart, Nashville is a town that is also rife with history, architecture and beauty. As a result, there are many Nashville landmarks that showcase the style and culture of this cosmopolitan city. By knowing in advance which landmarks you want to visit during your time in Nashville, you can easily build an itinerary that maximizes your time in the city.
Nashville Photo Spots
Beauty can be found around every corner in Nashville, but if you are looking for a photo with sweeping skyline views or an iconic backdrop, then you will want to head straight to these Nashville photo spots:
I Believe in Nashville Mural
If you are looking to capture a photo that showcases the strength and resilience of the local community, then head straight for the I Believe in Nashville Mural. The original mural was created by Adrien Saporiti in 2012 and was designed to showcase the pride that the local people have in their city, particularly in the face of adversity. Since the original mural was created, several more have been replicated on walls throughout the city, but if you are looking for the best one to photograph, you will want to head to the 12th South neighborhood and find Howell's Alley building.
Amelia's Outdoor Flower Truck
While Nashville may be a dynamic and lively city, it also gives people those vibes that make them feel as if they have stepped back into a simpler time — one in which everyone took time to cherish the present. This is why Amelia's Outdoor Flower Truck has become one of the most popular photo spots in Nashville. This vintage flower truck is known for its feminine backdrop, giving visitors an opportunity to snap a picture with the brightest blooms in the background. Of course, don't forget to grab a bouquet or two while you are there in order to support this local Nashville business.
John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge
Stretching across the Cumberland River, the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge is more than just practical infrastructure — it's become one of the most iconic spots in the city. The bridge is known for its sweeping architectural design, which is defined by its innovative arched trusses and it provides visitors and residents alike with an opportunity to walk straight into the heart of the city. Whether you want a picture with the bridgework in the background, or you are looking for a photo that features a skyline view, this is the place to go in Nashville to capture that perfect shot.
Honky Tonk Highway
For a photo that features the bright lights of Music City, there's no better place to head after dark than the Honky Tonk Highway. Running through the heart of The District, the Honky Tonk Highway embodies the revitalization efforts that have swept through Nashville over the course of the past several decades. While this area has worked to overcome its once-seedy reputation, it has transformed into one of the most dynamic and exciting places to be in the city. With live music, country bars and plenty of nightclubs, you simply have to stop for a photo with the neon signs behind you.
Famous Landmarks in Nashville
The most iconic Nashville landmarks showcase the heart and soul of the city, giving visitors that authentic Music City experience that they crave. These are the must-see landmarks that you should check out during your trip to Nashville:
Grand Ole Opry
Famously known as the Home of Country Music, the Grand Ole Opry is simply a must-do on any Nashville itinerary. To this day, the Grand Ole Opry is home to the world's longest-running live radio broadcast and country music lovers from around the globe tune in to hear the latest hits within the genre.
While you can certainly stop by the Grand Ole Opry and take a picture of it in the background, the best way to experience this iconic destination is to book a tour. Grand Ole Opry tours provide you with historic insight about the venue and as part of the experience, you will have an opportunity to step on the stage and have your picture taken. There's truly not a better souvenir to bring home from the Music City.
Ryman Auditorium
Constructed in 1889, the Ryman Auditorium has long been a treasured symbol of the city. While it was first constructed as a church in the late 19th century, it was famously home to the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974. During this time, some of the most legendary country music artists of the time graced the stage of this venue, which holds just more than 2,300 seats.
In the 1990s, Ryman Auditorium was lovingly restored to its former glory and since then, many iconic musicians have performed there, including Aretha Franklin, Bruce Springsteen and Lady A.
Whether you want to catch a show at Ryman Auditorium or simply take a photo with this beautiful structure in the background, you will certainly want to make time to experience this cherished piece of Nashville history during your visit.
The Parthenon
You may have heard that some people call Nashville the "Athens of the South," and that's because of its iconic Parthenon landmark. Designed to be a full-scale replica of the ancient Parthenon temple in Athens, Greece, The Parthenon is now one of the most notable Nashville landmarks.
The Parthenon was first built in 1897 as part of the Tennessee Centennial Exposition and since then, Centennial Park has been built around this grand and elegant public space. Today, visitors are able to come to the park in order to enjoy its lush, serene grounds. In addition, you can step inside The Parthenon, which houses an extensive art collection, including a full-scale replica of the Athena sculpture that is also found in Athens, Greece.
The Hermitage
While technically located just outside the city's borders, The Hermitage has long been associated with the history of Nashville. As the former home of President Andrew Jackson, The Hermitage is described as one of the most powerful presidential museum experiences in the country. It is considered to be one of the most extensive historical sites in the United States and curators of the site and museum aim to provide people with an immersive, intriguing and authentic experience.
Printer's Alley
Printer's Alley is easily found, thanks to the large neon sign that stretches across the street and features a newsboy from an era gone by. At the turn of the 20th century, this aptly named alley was home to nearly two dozen printers and publishers, which is how it earned its name. Over time, however, it grew to be a nightclub hotspot. First, speakeasies popped up in this discrete alley during the 1920s and once the Prohibition Era was over, it was still considered to be one of the best places to see and be seen in the city. Today, you will find replica neon signs that allow you to feel transported back to that golden era, as well as a handful of boutique shops and restaurants, giving you a taste of the city's true flavor.
General Jackson Showboat
Famously known as one of the largest showboats ever built, the General Jackson Showboat is Nashville's most famous floating landmark. The historic showboat cruises along the Cumberland River, giving guests an opportunity to soak up some of the most gorgeous views of the city's skyline. Whether you take a daytime tour or a nighttime cruise, you will enjoy a savory meal and lively entertainment. This experience is sure to result in some of your favorite Nashville memories.
Belle Mead Plantation
Plantations once anchored the Tennessee economy, particularly in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Belle Mead Plantation is one example that has been preserved and many come to tour the mansion, dine at the restaurant or sip wine that is produced on-location. However, this historic attraction also offers immersive experiences that shed light on the role that enslaved people played in the growth and development of the plantation. Guided tours of enslaved people's quarters and other important historic buildings on sight will leave you with a greater understanding of what life was like on a southern plantation in the 19th century.
Planning Your Trip to Nashville
When thinking of the best time to visit Nashville it’s important to know that AAA members can access perks and take advances for vacation planning such as getting the best discounts on hotels, rental cars and entertainment tickets.