A Guide to Nashville for Those That Love History!

Some people are all about history with its important leaders, unforgiving battles, and many outdated ways of doing things. If you’re on of these people, then Nashville has some great attractions for you to experience. Just spend a few days in the city and explore the history it has to offer. We’ll get you outstanding Nashville lodging to make your trip as easy and convenient as possible. From the 19^th century to the early 20^th century, this destination is entrenched in a deep history that you can’t refuse to uncover.

The Hermitage – Home of President Andrew Jackson is an intriguing look at a presidential estate. This property was purchased by Andrew Jackson in 1804 and it was here that Jackson and his wife, Rachel, lived in a log cabin and learned how to farm. He eventually built more and more buildings which you can take a look in, and the mansion Jackson built in 1820 is here, too. This self-guided tour is perfect for Civil War buffs.

The Belle Meade Plantation Tour takes you on a journey through a historic plantation complete with a restored 1853 antebellum mansion. This plantation was famous for its racing horses, sold around the world! There are 1890s stables and a carriage house along with an antique carriage collection. Seven other historic buildings accompany a 1790s log cabin. See what a plantation was really like.

Want to go on both tours? Well, here’s the perfect option for you. The Historic Tennessee Tour  includes both the Hermitage and the Bill Meade Plantation so you’ll get to experience both historic sites. This is a must if you want to get all the history you can on your visit.

Make Father’s Day One to Remember in Nashville!

Don’t let another Father’s Day pass without a special getaway for your dad – take him on an excursion to Nashville where he can experience whatever suits his fancy, from country legend concerts to outdoor wildlife exhibits. Nashville is full of surprises, and whether this is your dad’s first or fiftieth visit to Nashville, you can always find something enjoyable for your family. This Tennessee city has attraction that number in the thousands, and your dad can find both outdoor activities like fishing and cruises as well as indoor appeal at performances and sports store shopping. Be sure you make reservations for Father’s Day at your choice of Nashville lodging.

Start Dad out on one of the most popular activities in Nashville, the General Jackson Showboat, which combines a luxury cruise, a live performance and a delicious dinner. This is an unforgettable experience that will take you out on the Cumberland River where you can view the city skyline and watch the skyscrapers as they reflect on the deep blue water below. Choose from either a lunch or dinner menu, and enjoy country classics from some of your favorite artists during the meal. Afterward, you may continue your sightseeing experience out on the deck.

For a tribute to our fallen heroes, take your dad out on the Civil War Tour: The Battle of Franklin, where he can discover a little bit of history about Tennessee he may not have known. The Battle of Franklin was one of the most deadly conflicts in the station, with more than 9,500 casualties within the first five hours. Your tour guide will answer any questions you or the rest of your family may have as you walk through the cemetery. As a special highlight of the tour, you’ll also see the Carnton Plantation.

Celebrate World-Class Country at Nashville’s CMA Festival!

The CMA Music Festival is an event that country music fans around the nation anticipate every year, and 2011 promises to provide an amazing lineup of country artists from June 9-12.  Catch all your favorites onstage such as Dierks Bentley, Sara Evans, Reba McEntire, Martina McBride and Josh Turner. The event will kick off at the Grand Ole Opry and provide a performance like no one has ever seen in Nashville. Prepare yourself as one of the most famous country events of all time makes its way to Nashville this summer. You’ll want to make reservations at a nearby hotel like the Gaylord Opryland, so be sure to reserve your Nashville lodging today.

Continue your Nashville entertainment experience with a show at the Nashville Nightlife Dinner Theater, combining a great meal with special performers such as Jeannie Seel or Tommy Cash. Chow down on chicken, polish sausage, homemade rolls, fresh vegetables and banana pudding. The show lasts approximately 90 minutes and features some of your favorite country songs from both the past and present. You’ll even have a chance to shake the performers’ hands after the show and get their autographs!

If you’d like to see a show at the historic Ryman Auditorium, you can reserve your tickets to the Ryman Bluegrass Nights, providing an amazing variety of smooth bluegrass and country in every song. Clap and sing along as you hear a series of exciting summer tunes from your favorite performers.  The Ryman Auditorium features nothing but the best performers in bluegrass, so you certainly won’t be disappointed! Bluegrass artists like The Grascals and Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder have played here before.

Experience Extravaganzoo at the Nashville Zoo with the Kids!

The annual Nashville Eggstravaganzoo promises fun and adventure for both the old and the young for the entire day on April 23. Visitors and locals will be able to take their kids to the center of this great event and participate in one of the largest egg hunts in Nashville, featuring 30,000 eggs. All egg hunts will take place on the Zoo’s Festival Field, which is large enough to accompany children and their families during select times of the day. As a special treat, visitors will be able to watch animals hunt for eggs filled with edibles meant just for them, in addition to several featured games that families are welcome to join in on. Visitors can book Nashville hotel reservations if they’re interested in staying for an extended period of time, and Nashville Zoo reservations are available as well.

Nashville has many other kid-friendly attractions available to families as well, including the fun Nashville Limo Sightseeing Tours, taking visitors on an adventure in a classy Lincoln Town Car or a powerful Ford Expedition. Either way, families will receive the full experience of Nashville through their extensive tour, riding along the same route as the Country Music Stars Home Tour. View the luxurious estates of Dolly Parton, Alan Jackson, other legendary music stars – you might even see them outside their home!

In addition to a tour, families can take their kids to an enjoyable music and dining experience at the Hard Rock Cafe, featuring America’s favorite food and rock memorabilia. Point out the famous guitars, clothing and pictures on the walls. Some of the highlights of this Hard Rock Cafe include Garth Brook’s hat and Michael Jackson’s shoes. Classic rock music will be playing as well for you to enjoy. Best of all, this particular Hard Rock Cafe is located in Nashville’s historic district, near many other favorite historic features.

Events Close to Nashville Help the Needy for the Holidays

Nashville hosts many family music events during the holiday season, and you can be part of the experience by attending the nearby Hendersonville event, “Christmas 4 Kids,” on December 13 and 14. All the proceeds of the show will benefit the children in underprivileged families, and you’ll be able to enjoy great entertainment. Artists such as Burns and Poe, Chelsea Field and Bo Rice will be in attendance and ready to give you a performance you’ll never forget. Join in the festive atmosphere not far from Music City, and be sure to reserve your Nashville lodging soon.

The Christmas 4 Kids performance is one of many in Nashville, and you’re welcome to see other shows in the area, including entertainment on the colorful General Jackson Showboat. Reserve your seat for lunch or dinner time and enjoy a delicious gourmet meal with live, country music. After you’ve gotten your fill, take a peaceful stroll out to one of four decks on the boat and watch the flow of the Cumberland River as it slides past the historic showboat.

If you’d like to see a tribute show, Nashville has just the thing for you – Always… Patsy Cline. This incredible performance highlights Cline’s life from her steps toward fame up until the time of her death. You’ll hear all your favorite tunes, from “Blue Moon of Kentucky,” to “I Fall to Pieces.” The show has a large production, and talented vocalist Mandy Barnett plays the lead role of Cline, so you know you’re in for a treat.

Sightsee Nashville with Antebellum Mansion and Home Holiday Tours

Thanksgiving is past and Christmas brings a new look to many of the historical structures near Nashville with the Antebellum Mansion and Home Holiday Tours. During the month of December, many of these attractions will be adorned in festive wreaths, lights and interior decor to display for visitors. Discover what Christmas was like over a century ago, and walk through each mansion for an extensive tour. Some of the plantations and mansions that will be participating in this grand event include the famous Belle Meade Plantation, Belmont Mansion, Hermitage and Sam Davis Home. Stay nearby in some of the Nashville lodging to get the full experience of your vacation.

Once you’re done touring these historical sights, you can receive a broader overview of the city with an “All About Nashville Pass.” With the pass, you can travel from landmark to landmark aboard an exciting trolley. You’ll be able to view theaters and architectural wonders like the Ryman Auditorium, Parthenon and State Capitol. Once you’re done on the trolley, you’ll travel on foot with the Nashville Unpublished Walking Tour. Finally, add the icing on the cake to your activity with admission to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, where you can view the best and most legendary country stars to ever perform!

 Also, you can add a little luxury to your visit to Tennessee with the Nashville Limo Sightseeing Tours. Choose from one hour to up to three hours of exciting sightseeing across the mansions of stars like Garth Brooks, Dolly Parton and Alan Jackson. Each place has its own unique look, and you’ll be able to view each one in style to match the high class of the music stars. Choose from either a full stretch limo or comfortable SUV to travel.

Soak in Nashville Sights Through the Outdoors!

If you’re planning an adventurous trip this October or November, the city of Nashville has great tours and attractions to keep you active and entertained. You’ll welcome Music City’s fresh air, lively atmosphere and fun local spirit. View the rugged and interesting architecture that still populates the historic parts of the city. Once you’ve seen the downtown area, you can head out to the rim of the city for fun zipline tours and other great opportunities. Don’t forget to bring the whole family along as you vacation as well for some great exercise and pleasurable sightseeing! Browse through each of the activities below to set up your itinerary.

Canopy Challenge Ropes Course

Begin your Nashville vacation with an exciting obstacle course that takes you 40 feet up in the air. You’ll be safely secured by ropes and cables, but the course still challenges you to complete several climbs, jumps and even group-oriented activities. Each obstacle provides you with a different puzzle, and you’ll have the option of either the Climb, Jump Swing course, Low Course Challenge, High Course Challenge, Great Rescue or the Canopy Challenge Ropes Course. Complete the challenge yourself and encourage your kids try it as well.

Eco Adventure Canopy Zipline Tour

The southern regions of the country are well-known for their lush plant life, and Tennessee is no different. On the Eco Adventure Canopy Zipline Tour, you’ll be able to fly past dozens of treelines  for a perfect picturesque view of the surrounding canopy. Guides will harness you up safely to a cable as you fly from one zip line tower to another. In between the fun zips, your guide will provide you with background information on the canopy’s beginnings, as well as answering any questions you may currently have.

Belle Meade Plantation Tour

Finally, for a great tour both inside and out, you can go through the Belle Meade Plantation, which pulls you back to the middle of the 1800′s, when the plantation first began. There are so many sights to see throughout the plantation, you’ll be hardpressed to see everything. Don’t forget about the well-known horse stables near the plantation, where the Harding family trained the ancestors of horses like Secretariat, Seabiscuit and Funny Cide! Inside, you’ll be able to view exhibits of paintings and beautiful furniture over a century old.

Smell the Nashville open air once you arrive here, and book the music and tours that will make your vacation simple and exciting. You’ll have a great time!

Nashville Grabs the Attention Visitors Through “Artrageous” Event

Held city-wide, Nashville’s fantastic annual ”Artrageous” is a powerful display of some of the finest arts and crafts that have been created by the city’s locals. If you decide to attend the tour taking place on November 13, you’ll have a selection of seven separate art galleries to walk through in Music City. Also, to accommodate the night owls, a special late party will be held from 10 pm – 1 am, complete with live entertainment and an auction giving away a prized seven day vacation to the Mexican Riviera. Make plans ahead of time to attend by booking your Nashville hotel online.

While you’re in Nashville, you’re welcome to attend some of the more artistic venues, such as the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, featuring some of the most famous recording artists of all time. Inside, you’ll be able to listen to the records of artists that received their humble beginnings in music city, along with special memorabilia. The museum is over 40,000 square feet, so you’ll have plenty of places to explore inside.

Along with the museum, you can also see small exhibits on the Belle Meade Plantation Tour, which takes a deep look into the Harding family, the original owners of the mansion. The house was built in 1853, and a tour guide will lead you from decorated hallways to the beautifully adorned stables where the ancestors of famous horses like Seabiscuit and Funny Cide were raised. Seven original outbuildings remain on the property.

Remember to tour Nashville this fall for a relaxing vacation before the end-of-the-year holidays hit. You’ll enjoy the arts and creativity of the local citizens.

Nashville Prepares for Music and Molasses Festival

During the third week of October, Nashville’s Ellington Agricultural Center will be celebrating the fall season in its own way with the Music and Molasses Festival, which provides plenty of activities for the young and old. Walk into a country-style atmosphere filled with twangy Bluegrass songs, legendary storytellers and fine craftsmanship. Don’t forget to try your hand at the molasses making, with enough warm delicious syrup to go around. Some of the other attractions featured are complimentary buggy rides, homemade cakes and pies, a grist mill, pony rides and all kinds of other animals your children can pet. Before you head on over to this great festival, make sure you book a Nashville hotel with all your favorite amenities.

Along with this fun festival, Nashville has all kinds of shows for you to go to including the famous Tribute to the King, where the incredible actor John Beardsley pulls off such a good impression of Elvis that you may not be able to tell the difference between the actor and the real deal. Beardsley sports five different costumes throughout the show representing the various eras and performances that the king of Rock n’ Roll attributed to over the years. You’ll hear all sorts of authentic music from Elvis’ past hits of the 1950′s and beyond.

You can receive some country cookin’ with your entertainment at the Nashville Nightlife Dinner Theater, which features some of the best Opry stars like Paula Poe, Diana Murrell and Jeannie Seely and many other familiar faces. The show has been awarded Music Valley’s “#1 Dinner and Show” and offers a menu of four types of entrees, a salad bar, baked potatoes, homemade rolls and much more. After the performance is over, you can come up by the stage to both meet these great performers and even get a picture and autograph with them.

The city of Nashville has so much to offer this fall, it would be a shame for you to miss out on it! Come on down today for great performances, festivals and all kinds of activities.

Take Friends and Family to Nashville for Historic Daniel Smith Days!

Explore the history of Nashville’s Historic Rock Castle near Hendersonville on September 25 and 26 with the annual “Daniel Smith Days.” The event incorporates a late 19th century camp along with reenactments from various performers to show the Colonial Traders. While walking on the Smith plantation grounds, you can taste old recipes and listen to the music of the day. After taking in your fill, you can head back to some of the Nashville area lodging for a great night’s rest.

Nashville has other fun ways to experience its history, such as a walk through Barbara Mandrell’s home with the Fontanel Mansion Tour. The tour is self-guided, so you can take your time as you view the 27,000 square foot impressive structure. The mansion features older decor combining thirteen restrooms, two kitchens and five fireplaces into one shelter. There is also a Farm House restaurant in the area in case you get hungry.

For the history buffs craving a look at some of the older Greek Revival architecture, the Belle Meade Plantation Tour certainly fits the description. Built in 1853, the plantation was well-known for its skilled horsebreeders raising the descendants of Smarty Jones, Funny Cide and Seabiscuit back to the farm. Inside the whitewashed pillard building, there are 19th century art pieces, fixtures and an included narration from your knowledgeable guide.

Learn all about the antiquity and past of Music City in a fun and exciting way. The festivals, tours and other activities will make your stay pleasureable and smooth.

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