Visiting Tennessee – Nashville & Memphis

The city of Nashville, Tennessee is constantly buzzing with energy. The live music performed within the many bars and restaurants along the infamous Broadway Street creates a symphony of music that spills out into the crowds. There’s a reason it’s called “Music City” – country music is the focal point of all activity in Nashville.

The Country Music Hall of Fame remains one of the coolest places I have ever visited! Specifically, seeing the iconic outfits, instruments, and memorabilia of country music’s biggest artists was astounding. As a huge fan of Taylor Swift, I found the Taylor Swift Education Center to be my favorite part of the place. The Education Center features props from Swift’s music videos, outfits she wore in her album covers or on tour, guitars, and even a songwriting station!

We had the amazing opportunity to tour both The Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium while we were in Nashville. The rich history encapsulated within the buildings gave me a new-found love and appreciation for country music. Most people overlook the Ryman, and opt for the Grand Ole Opry instead, but it is definitely worth your time to experience all the history that the Ryman has to offer.

Southwest of Nashville, you’ll find yourself in Memphis – home of Elvis Presley. Perhaps one of the most popular tourist stops in Tennessee is Elvis’ mansion, Graceland. As a big fan of Elvis, touring his mansion, estate, and private jets was a once in a lifetime opportunity. Knowing that Elvis once lived within these walls was a feeling unlike any other. The only place on the estate that is off-limits is the second story of the mansion to obey Elvis’ wishes of privacy. The second story is notoriously reserved only for family members. After touring the mansion, you can walk through a museum full of all of Elvis’ most memorable jewelry, outfits, awards, cars, and more!

While in Memphis, it is definitely worth your time to swing by Beale Street – Home of the Blues and Birthplace of Rock ‘n Roll. Just like on Broadway Street in Nashville, the live music around every corner creates an infectious atmosphere. Every inch of Beale Street pays homage to the great trailblazers in Blues music. Much like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, along the sidewalk are music notes dedicated to famous Blues artists, such as Aretha Franklin. BB King’s Blues Club honors King’s memory and continues to inspire the next generation of Blues artists.

For anyone looking for a music-centered vacation, Nashville and Memphis are the places to go. A trip to Nashville is whatever you make it. Nashville can be a fast-paced celebration full of partying and dancing, or a slower-paced entertaining trip to be surrounded by music and history. Part of Nashville’s charm is its flexibility, which makes it the perfect vacation destination for anyone!