The Lovely Lance

Let’s be honest: When you think of Nashville, Tennessee, you probably think of one of two things: Country music or bachelorette parties. I can’t even say I’m insulted by this, because according to all of social media- it’s true!

But-

There’s way more to do in Nashville besides listening to George Strait or wearing a penis sash on Broadway (No offense George…or penis sash wearing ladies). Below I have compiled some of the best local things you can do in Nashville, with your girlfriends, significant other, or on your own!

1. Get a drink at Bastion

There’s no shortage of great cocktails in Nashville, but Bastion takes the cake in my opinion. In an up and coming neighborhood, Wedgewood-Houston, Bastion is in an old factory building. Upon entering through the garage door, you’ll be greeted by a small bar with ambient lighting. My favorite feature: the strange graffiti on the back walls. Although the menu changes fairly often, they offer a wide variety of liquors and can make just about any drink you request.

2. Go meet Santa at Santa’s Pub

Bars, bars, bars! Most tourists upon entering town are here to drink. My favorite bar (dive bar at that) is Santa’s Pub. Located in an old trailer near Wedgewood-Houston, Santa’s Pub stands out compared to the rest of the Honky Tonks in town. Santa’s only takes cash and offers beer, however, if you love to sing your heart out, this is the place for you. Known for nothing more than all-night-long karaoke, celebrities and non-celebrities alike show up to belt out a tune. If you’re lucky, “Santa” will be there as well!

3. Have a grilled cheese at the Grilled Cheeserie

Who doesn’t love a grilled cheese?! With two locations in town and a food truck, the Grilled Cheeserie has quickly become a Nashville staple. Lactose intolerant? No problem. Gluten-free? No problem! This creative restaurant offers artisan grilled cheese options as well as create your own options. Their menu also includes tasty sides and desserts such as cheesy tots and hopscotch milkshakes!

4. Get your picture taken at a mural

Have you even been to Nashville if you don’t post at least one insta photo featuring a mural? Nope, you haven’t. While there are many incredibly popular murals, the most popular I’d say is Kelsey Montague’s What Lifts You? in the Gulch. With lines lasting as long as 2 hours, people from far and wide come to have their photo taken here. Below I’ve listed a few that are less popular, but still gorgeous and insta worthy!

Other popular murals:

Drippy Lips Mural: Hillsboro Village

I Believe in Nashville: 12^th Avenue South

Nashville Gold Balloons Mural: Russell Street

Flowers Mural: 12^th Avenue South

5. Enjoy coffee with a view at Crema

After a weekend spent in Nashville, you’re going to need some serious caffeine. There is no shortage of wonderful coffee options in town, but my personal favorite in Crema in downtown Nashville. Not only do they offer just about any coffee beverage you can imagine, they have a beautiful view of the skyline and a patio worth enjoying. Hungry? I recommend the Margherita quiche, a filling snack to enjoy with a coffee on a lazy Sunday.

6. See herons at Radnor Lake State Park

Look, if you’re not an outdoors person, you may not like this option. However! Radnor Lake State Park is absolutely gorgeous any time of the year. Converted from an old city road, this 1,300+ acre park had over 6 miles of beautiful hiking trails ranged from easy to difficult. You can expect to see deer, herons, owls, many varieties of ducks, and occasionally an otter! Stop by the Barbara J. Mapp Aviary Education Center to get more information on the park’s history and animal inhabitants.

7. Get your burn on at Hattie B’s Hot Chicken

I seriously saw a commercial the other day for a chain restaurant offering “Nashville hot chicken shrimp”…What?! Hot chicken IS a Nashville staple, and my personal favorite is Hattie B’s. Although not the original hot chicken restaurant, Hattie B’s stands out because of how wonderful the food is. Not into spicy food? They offer no-heat options, as well as sides such as pimento macaroni and cheese, collard greens, and crinkle cut French fries. I’ve also included some honorable hot chicken mentions below if this doesn’t peak your interest  

8. Have a ball at Pinewood Social

Known for their bowling, Pinewood Social has a lot more to offer than just strikes and spares. Pinewood has excellent drinks, coffees, dinners, bowling, and swimming (I know right?!). Pinewood, although most notable as a restaurant, has so much to offer any visitors. I routinely attend their happy hour, but don’t get me wrong- sitting by the pool on a hot summer day AT A BAR? Sounds perfect. I recommend going for brunch and trying the breakfast tacos. Their menu changes based on what time you attend, so be sure to do your research ahead of time.

Excluding the tourist favorites, did I leave any of YOUR favorites off the list? I’ve lived in Nashville for 5 years, so I like to think I know the best spots but I do love a good new favorite! Comment below and let me know your personal hot spots.