Nashville, Tennessee

Exploring Nashville: Music, Flavor, and Fun

Nashville, the heart of country music and Southern hospitality, has something for everyone. Whether you're drawn to the bright lights of The Strip, the rich flavors of local cuisine, or unique photo ops, this vibrant city offers endless excitement. Here's a peek at my Nashville adventures, full of music, mouthwatering meals, and unforgettable moments.

The Strip: Country Music, Dancing, and Lights

No trip to Nashville is complete without visiting The Strip—the iconic stretch of Broadway lined with neon lights, honky-tonk bars, and live country music blaring from every corner. As you stroll down the bustling street, you'll be swept up by the energy of the crowd, the sound of guitars, and the shuffle of cowboy boots on the pavement. The atmosphere is electric, with people dancing, laughing, and enjoying the city’s vibrant nightlife. I couldn't help but marvel at how friendly and welcoming everyone was. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Nashville’s Southern charm shines through in every conversation.

What’s a trip to Nashville without picking up a pair of iconic cowboy boots? I stopped by one of the boot stores on The Strip, where I was amazed by the variety—everything from traditional leather to flashy, colorful designs. The staff was super friendly and made the shopping experience even more fun. Definitely a must-stop for any visitor looking to bring a little Nashville home with them! Here is where I went exactly (in this order):

Wild Beaver Saloon, Commerce Street, Nashville, TN

Kid Rock's Big Ass Honky Tonk Rock N' Roll Steakhouse
Jason Aldean's Kitchen + Rooftop Bar, 307 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201
Miranda Lambert's Casa Rosa, Broadway, Nashville, TN
Boot country
Robert's Western World, 416 Broadway # B, Nashville, TN 37203
Honky Tonk Highway, Broadway, Nashville, TN
Losers Bar & Grill, 1911 Division St, Nashville, TN 37203

Iconic Photo Ops: I Believe in Nashville & Black & White Wings

For a perfect Nashville souvenir, be sure to snap a photo at the “I Believe in Nashville” sign, located at Nashville’s 12th Avenue South (corner of 12th Ave S & Wedgewood Ave). It's a true symbol of the city's pride and the perfect spot to capture the essence of Music City. The vibrant mural is a must-see, reflecting Nashville’s community spirit and Southern hospitality.

Another fun photo op is the Nashville Black & White Wings, located at Wings Mural on 302 11th Ave S (near the corner of 11th Ave S & Division St). These giant angelic wings painted on the side of a building provide an iconic backdrop for your photos, letting you embrace the “Music City” vibe in style. Both spots are must-visit for anyone looking to take home a piece of Nashville’s magic in a photo!

Lunch at Jashan Indian Restaurant: A Flavor Explosion

This is a hidden gem serving up some of the best Indian food I’ve ever had. We went all in with the Thali Plated Buffet, a feast of chef-selected dishes served on a platter. The variety was incredible, with options like tandoori chicken, lentils, rice, naan, and a delicious dessert to top it all off.

I opted for the Bengali Lobster, an 8 oz serving of lobster cooked in a robust, coconut-infused spice blend that was full of flavor. The Butter Chicken Wings were a standout, with tender, juicy wings marinated in tandoori spices and cooked to perfection in a clay oven. And don’t even get me started on the Mughlai lamb chops—marinated in old-world spices and grilled to perfection. Each bite was a true culinary delight. I left feeling full, satisfied, and already planning my return!

Dinner at Black Tap: Shakes, Burgers, and Southern Comfort

For dinner, we headed to Black Tap, a burger joint that’s as fun as it is delicious. First, we couldn’t resist ordering their signature milkshakes. The Strawberry Shortcake Shake was a decadent treat with crumbled cake, strawberry ice cream, and whipped cream, topped with a cherry and strawberry drizzle. If you’re a chocolate lover, the Brooklyn Blackout Shake with brownies, mini chocolate chips, and whipped cream is a must-try. For a more classic option, the Cookies 'n Cream Supreme is packed with Oreo goodness and topped with a whole cookies 'n cream sandwich.

Now, let’s talk about the burgers. I went with the Tennessee Burger, a prime beef patty topped with Jack Daniel’s red pepper jam, sweet potato chips, white BBQ sauce, and kosher pickles. It was a flavorful, smoky masterpiece. My friend opted for the Wagyu Steakhouse Burger, a juicy ½ pound wagyu burger with crispy onions, A1 sauce, and roasted garlic mayo. Both burgers were cooked to perfection and paired wonderfully with their Caesar salad and Hot Fried Pickles with a tangy buttermilk-dill dip.

If You Have Some Free Time, Check Out These Hot Spots!

If you’ve got some extra time to explore Nashville beyond the main attractions, here are a few more spots you won’t want to miss:

Milk and Honey Coffee: Head over to Milk and Honey Coffee for a cozy brunch experience. This spot serves up delicious coffee, fresh pastries, and light brunch options. Perfect for a morning pick-me-up or a relaxing afternoon break.
The Gulch: This trendy neighborhood is full of vibrant murals, boutique shops, and great dining options. Don’t miss the Wing Mural for a colorful photo op, and be sure to grab a coffee or brunch at one of its many popular spots.
5 Daughter’s Bakery: Located in The Gulch, this bakery is famous for its donuts—specifically their cronut (a croissant-doughnut hybrid), which is a must-try. It's the perfect spot for a sweet treat after a morning of exploration.
Music City Walk of Fame: Take a stroll down Nashville's Walk of Fame Park to see the stars dedicated to the legendary artists who shaped country music. It’s a celebration of Nashville’s rich musical history.
Printers Alley: This historic district is a perfect stop for history and nightlife lovers alike. From live music venues to classic Nashville bars, Printers Alley gives you a taste of the city’s lively past and present.

Nashville is a city that truly has it all—live music, delicious food, and plenty of Southern charm. Whether you’re dancing to country tunes on The Strip, savoring a flavorful Indian feast at Jashan, or indulging in a gourmet milkshake at Black Tap, there’s no shortage of things to do and see. And with iconic photo ops like the I Believe in Nashville sign and the Black & White Wings, your memories of Music City are sure to last a lifetime.