If you’re a Nashville native, you know that music is ingrained in the city's soul. From honoring some of the greatest music legends to offering plenty of venues to enjoy the music or move to the beat, Music City earned its nickname. From the honky-tonks on Broadway to the Grand Ole Opry, Nashville is a city that moves and grooves to the beat of its own drum— or bass. But not everyone who comes to the city is used to grooving. And sure, not everyone wants to. But if you are looking to move and groove and explore the city, keep reading— we’ve got a list of great ways to get started!
Break in those Boots (or other
shoes) Made for Walkin’
Nashville has so many venues worth
exploring, both indoors and out! If you’re looking to start easy with moving
more often, start taking long walks through some of the attractions! You can
pick a park or check out one of the many museums, such as the one honoring
music great Johnny Cash! You can get into Nashville’s art scene or check out
one of the many breweries, wineries, distilleries, or cideries offering tours.
Walk through one of many shopping areas or go for a stroll through downtown.
Music Roz, Capitol View, The Nations— the list of destinations goes on!
You can also explore attractions in
surrounding cities, like the Tennessee Aquarium down in Chatanooga (a two-hour
drive) or over to Graceland to learn more about the life and legacy of Elvis
Prestley (a three-hour drive). And don’t forget one of the best places to go
for a walk— the zoo! You’ll have a great mix of indoor and outdoor spaces,
delicious food and cold drinks, and a myriad of new fuzzy, scaly, shelled,
feathered friends to meet.
Whatever your interests, Nashville and
the surrounding areas are sure to have something for you to explore. So get out
there and enjoy your city!
Get Outside
Nashville is home to some truly gorgeous
parks! You can take a walk or a job in Centennial Park, located in the heart of
the city and featuring a one-mile walking trail, a lake, and plenty of green
space. If you want something more challenging, consider Radnor Lake State Park!
It features six miles of hiking trails, including one that takes you to some
truly stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape; beware, though—
it’s a literal uphill journey!
If you’re looking for a unique way to get
moving and enjoy the outdoors, get on the water! Nashville offers
paddleboarding and kayaking spaces to explore the Cumberland River. One popular
rental spot is River Queen Voyages since they offer guided tours of the river
alongside their rentals.
Hit the Gym or Groove Your Way
into Dance Classes
If you aren’t ready to take on the
outdoors, consider joining one of Nashville’s plethora of gyms or fitness
classes. From Pilates or Yoga to Zumba and Krav Maga, this city has something
for everyone! Learn self-defense or simply find a coach to help you start your
fitness journey safely. You can even try hotboxing!
If you’re looking for something more
tailored to grooving when moving,
then consider dance lessons! You can check out Turn their Heads
for dance lessons in Nashville for country styles like line dancing
and country swing, or head over to Arthur Murray Dance Centers for ballroom
dancing like the tango, waltz, and salsa!
Explore the Nightlife
Music City doesn’t just sing during the
day! The city also offers a vibrant nightlife with plenty of places to dance
the night away. One popular spot is the Wildhorse Saloon, featuring live music
and line dancing every night— there’s also a mechanical bull if you’re feeling
brave. Another option is the Basement, a music venue with local and national acts,
plus dance parties and other events. And that’s just a taste of what Nashville’s nightlife has to offer!
Get Those Boots Scootin’
Whether you prefer to get your workout
in a gym, dance the night away, explore the great outdoors, or do
something else entirely, Nashville has something for everyone. So, get out
there and start moving and grooving to the beat Music City is playing for you!
Just remember, when you’re out there enjoying the activity of your choice, it’s
important to stay hydrated and eat right. Start small with activities and work
your way up so you don’t set yourself back with an injury. And above all, have
fun!