Dust off those cowboy boots and get ready for a boot scootin’ good time! Today marks WestJet’s inaugural flight from Calgary (YYC) to Nashville (BNA), a twice-weekly non-stop service that will take passengers from the Rocky Mountains to Music City.
Although Nashville is known for its musical roots, there’s plenty to see, do, and eat. We’ve rounded up our list of top ten things to do if you’re BNA-bound.
EXPERIENCE
Grand Ole Opry
If you’re a music lover, a trip to Nashville wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Grand Ole Opry, an American icon and Nashville’s number-one attraction. Take part in a behind-the-scenes backstage tour, or grab tickets to one of the daily shows.
John Seigentaler Bridge
Connecting downtown Nashville to the residential suburbs of East Nashville, the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge provides outstanding views of the river and downtown skyline, and is one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world.
12 South
Local coffeehouses, incredible restaurants, and plenty of shopping to explore in this trendy area. Snap a photo in front of the famous “I believe in Nashville” sign by DCXV Industries right next to actress Reese Witherspoon’s store, Draper James.
LISTEN
Nashville International Airport
As the gateway for music-city bound passengers, Nashville International Airport hosts some of the best local talent with six performance areas throughout the terminal, and over 700 performances a year.
The Bluebird Café
Don’t be fooled by the strip mall exterior, this iconic club features up and coming, and experienced songwriters playing acoustic performances in an intimate atmosphere. The 90 seat music club fills up fast, so it’s best to reserve tickets online.
Broadway Historic District: Honky Tonk Highway
Head over to Broadway to check out the stretch of bars with great live music. There’s never a cover charge, and the music is always live. Some of the more well-known honky tonks include Tootsie’s, Tequila Cowboy, and The Stage.
EAT
Pinewood Social
Bowling, cocktails, outdoor games, pool, patio, coffee shop, and restaurant, Pinewood Social has it all. This multi-activity hangout spot is located in one of the trolley barns in Rolling Mill Hill, about a half hour walk from Broadway.
Acme Feed and Seed
Serving up traditional southern food and live music, Acme Feed and Seed is a multilevel venue with an incredible rooftop patio for taking in some of the most scenic views in the city.
Hattie B’s
Nashville is known for hot chicken, and rumour has it that it all started with Hattie B’s. They have two locations in Nashville to get your fix. Tip: the early bird gets the worm! Lineups start forming early in the morning, so it’s best to arrive as early as possible. Or, use their online system to place a takeout order.
Husk
When you need a break from all the fried food and honky tonks, Husk is the restaurant to try. Award-winning chef Sean Brock serves up local ingredients cooked in a historic 19th century mansion. Located in Rutledge Hill – just a few blocks south of Broadway – Husk is renowned for its fresh, daily-changing menu.
So there you have it, a complete round up of the best things to experience, listen to and eat when in Nashville.
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