Newsworthy and Notable Nashville

We're stateside again, continuing our adventure in Notorious Nashville, Tennessee! This Noteworthy town Never has a dull moment! With a Never ending stream of country influence and National pride, Nashville makes even a city mouse feel at home. 

Sixth Stop: The City of Music, The Protestant Vatican, The Athens of the South

1) Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
 Music lovers and appreciators of the arts alike will both enjoy this expansive museum. With a plethora of activities, included but not limited to Nashville Cats (an unfortunately misleading name), film screenings, songwriting sessions, family programs, and Poets and Prophets. As someone who is not into country music in the slightest, I thought I would find nothing of interest to me, but I was pleasantly mistaken! The museum offers exhibits of different country singers, this mouth they are featuring Eric Church,  Sam Phillips, Trisha Yearwood, and Luke Bryan (I LOVE HIM). These exhibits highlight the accomplishments of each artist and how they contribute to the musical world.

Outside of Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

You can also attend live shows in the state-of-the-art, 800-seat CMA Theater- the newest addition to the museum. Although there are currently no upcoming shows scheduled, the theater will feature wonderful concerts in the future; it features lighting and sound designed by Akustiks, a company renowned internationally for their work with technically superior and highly functional theaters, opera houses, concert halls, and arts education facilities. 

CMA Theater

2) General Jackson Showboat 
The best way to experience all the historical, musical, and culinary delights that Nashville has to offer is to take a trip on the General Jackson Showboat! This opulent boat first set sail on April 20, 1985. Since then, it has treated its passengers to the feel of the American Victorian era while sailing the beautiful Cumberland River.

via official site

Enjoy world-class entertainment after you eat, with three continuously running shows (Hot Country Nights, Nashville Live!, and General Jackson Jubilee) that take place either in the evening, midday or 'Sunday brunch' respectively! During the holiday season, get into the celebration spirit with the special 'Heart of Christmas Evening Holiday Cruise', 'Nashville Christmas Holiday Midday Cruise' or '2015 New Year's Eve' cruise!

Main ballroom theater

3) Historic Tennessee - Southern Plantations and Presidents
As I've said before, I love love love tours!!  And, if you all remember my post about Asheville, I also love 'romantic old-fashion, palace-like estates'; this tour combines both of my travel staples! This 6 and a half bus tour takes you to two destinations rich in history; The Hermitage and Belle Meade Mansion. On this guided experience, you will explore the Southern plantation and presidential estate, as well as learn about prominent Nashville and Civil War history. The Hermitage was the home of Andrew Jackson, and is considered one of the best preserved early presidential homes. You can take a tour of the original 1804 cabin, or stroll in the lovely formal gardens. The spacious and stunning mansion is exactly the same as it was when Jackson lived there.

Outside of the Mansion, via official website

There are slave quarters on the grounds as well as the final resting place of both Jackson and his wife. After soaking in all the 1836 history, why not take a break for lunch? The onsite Hermitage Smorgasbord offers a traditional Southern Buffet, including delicious dessert.  For you history buffs- if you're still interested in learning more about Andrew Jackson's estate, you can take tours independent from the bus tour that will go more in depth into the history of the estate!