The Best Summer Activities to do in Nashville
- Trevor Caldwell
- 21 minutes ago
- 2 min read
By: Trevor Caldwell
Your Ultimate Nashville Adventures Guide to Making the Most of Music City This Summer
When summer hits Nashville, the city turns all the way up. Rooftops are buzzing, live music spills into the streets, lakes fill up fast, and there’s something happening every single weekend. Whether you're a local looking to rediscover your city or visiting for the first time, this is your go-to Nashville Adventures guide to the best summer activities in Music City.
Catch Live Music on Broadway
No summer in Nashville is complete without a stroll down Broadway. From mid-afternoon to 2 a.m., the honky-tonks are packed with rising artists and seasoned pros.
Top spots to pop into:
Tootsies Orchid Lounge
Robert's Western World
The Stage on Broadway
Pro Tip: Go during the day for easier bar hopping, or at night if you want the full high-energy Broadway experience.
Spend a Day on the Water
Summer = lake season. And Nashville has options.
Percy Priest Lake – Party coves, paddle-boarding, pontoon rentals.
Old Hickory Lake – Laid-back vibes and incredible sunsets.
Whether you’re renting a boat, kayaking, or just floating with friends, lake days are a Nashville summer staple.
Rooftop Bars with a View
Golden hour hits different in Music City. Nashville’s rooftop scene is unmatched.
Must-visit rooftops:
L.A. Jackson
Harriet's Rooftop
White Limousine
Grab a frozen cocktail, watch the skyline light up, and soak in those summer vibes.
See a Show at a Legendary Venue
Live music is the heartbeat of Nashville — especially in summer.
Iconic spots:
Ryman Auditorium
Ascend Amphitheater
Grand Ole Opry
Outdoor concerts at Ascend with the skyline behind the stage? Elite summer energy.
Explore the Outdoors
Need a reset from the city buzz? Nashville has beautiful green space.
Top outdoor spots:
Radnor Lake State Park
Centennial Park
Shelby Bottoms Green way
Morning walks, bike rides, picnic days — it’s all better in the sunshine.
Summer Festivals & Events
Summer in Nashville means festival season.
Fan favorites:
CMA Fest
Let Freedom Sing! Music City July 4th
Musicians Corner
From country superstars to local artists, the city becomes one big stage.
Eat Your Way Through Summer
Summer is prime time for patio dining and local eats.
You can’t leave without trying:
Hattie B's Hot Chicken
Classic Southern BBQ
Food truck pop-ups around the city
Pair it with sweet tea or a local craft beer and you’re doing it right.
Final Thoughts: Nashville Summer Activities
Nashville in the summer isn’t just a destination — it’s an experience. It’s lake days and late nights. It’s rooftop sunsets and surprise live sets. It’s hot chicken, cold drinks, and music around every
corner. And, ohhh, If you’re looking to truly experience Music City, don’t just visit... adventure through it. And if you need any help, you can always book a Nashville Walking Tour with us.
