Nashville, Tennessee, is a wonderful place to tap your feet to some awesome live music. The undisputed center of the country music world, Nashville is a top vacation destination for music lovers. This city is home to legendary venues like the Ryman Auditorium, once the home of the Grand Ole Opry, the Bluebird Cafe, and Exit/In, which showcase some of the best names in country. If you are a big country fan and looking to attend the CMA Music Festival, be sure to schedule a trip to Nashville in June. 

In addition to the music scene, Nashville, situated on the banks of the Cumberland River, is a remarkably pleasant place to spend some time. If you are interested in walking around Nashville's historic downtown district you will find many well-preserved buildings from the city's Victorian era. If you'd rather explore unique boutiques, restaurants, and bars, head to 2nd Avenue. While you are there, be sure to try some delicious and authentic Southern cooking, especially the fried chicken.

Here are a few additional suggestions of things to do in Nashville:

-Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: This museum showcases artifacts and memorabilia from country music's greatest names.

-Grand Ole Opry House: You can sit in the audience during a live taping of the famous Nashville radio program, The Grand Ole Opry. 

-State Capital: The capital of Tennessee is housed in a big neo-classical building downtown, open to the public.

-Tennessee State Museum: This educational museum provides an interesting glimpse into the history of Tennessee, including Native American and early colonial artifacts.

-Hermitage: The home of former president Andrew Jackson, the restored Hermitage plantation shows life as it was in early 19th century Tennessee.

-Cheekwood Botanical Gardens and Museum of Art: Stroll past oaks, pines, herbs, wildflowers, Japanese bamboo, water plants, and sculptures at this beautiful botanical gardens.

If you are going to be visiting Nashville during the summer, a vacation rental can be a great way to beat the crowds and the season's elevated costs. Either an apartment rental downtown or a cabin rental outside the city center will give you easy access to the live music scene and Nashville's exciting nightlife. Alternately, a condo in one of Nashville's residential neighborhoods will put you at the center of all the action.