Let's Take a Day Trip

NASHVILLE — As I stood at the bustling intersection of Broadway and Third Avenue, the twang of country music filled the air, wrapping me in a comforting embrace. In that moment, I truly felt like I was in my own slice of happiness.

This southern paradise, surrounded by endless greenery and mountainous countryside, offers something for everyone. Whether you seek a night of bar hopping, live country music, sporting events, or simply a great weekend on a warm summer night, Nashville should be at the top of your “must-visit” list.

While this vibrant metropolis provides nonstop fun, its rapid growth has outpaced the development of infrastructure, which may deter some visitors.

In this discussion, we will explore the reasons why Nashville is such a popular destination, while also addressing the need for improved connectivity. The lack of convenient public transportation to and from downtown from the airport presents a significant challenge that the city should address.

The Music City Is for Everyone

While I derive immense pleasure from listening to Kane Brown’s soulful rendition in an acoustic setting or Riley Green’s evocative track “Mississippi or Me,” I understand that country music and its scene may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

Nonetheless, Nashville offers an array of entertainment options. For a fun night out, ladies can dress up in their favorite boots, stylish short shorts, and cowgirl hats and enjoy a lively evening at Luke’s 32 Bridge. Men can dress in cowboy hats, boots, Lucky Brand Jeans, and white t-shirts and explore Broadway to find establishments serving Tennessee’s finest whiskey.

The city’s vibrant nightlife, similar to New Orleans’ Bourbon Street but with a country twist, makes Nashville unique.

For college students looking to party, Nashville is home to approximately 16 colleges and universities, including Fisk, Tennessee State University, and Vanderbilt. The city also offers a lively nightlife with popular clubs such as Blueprint Underground Cocktail Club and Night We Met.

Additionally, food enthusiasts can indulge in a multitude of hot wing options, with popular spots like StrikeOut Wingz or Hattie B’s.

In summary, Nashville offers a wide range of possibilities for visitors, attracting everyone from music lovers to college students and food enthusiasts. If you’re looking for things to do while in the Music City, the bartender at my hotel suggested visiting the “Nashville Guru” website to discover the latest events and attractions in the city.

Nashville Lack of Public Transportation Makes It Hard to Get Around Without a Car

I strongly believe that a key factor in defining a great city is its public transportation options, which play a crucial role in the overall accessibility and convenience of urban travel. The ability to seamlessly connect from a city’s airport to its central business district without the need for a rental car or reliance on taxis or rideshares is of paramount importance.

Unfortunately, in the case of Nashville, the absence of a light rail system means that visitors and locals alike are limited in their ability to efficiently access the city’s popular tourist attractions from downtown.

In 2018, there was a notable instance when local voters rejected a referendum that sought to allocate funding for the development of a comprehensive light rail network for the city. The proposed $8.9 billion plan was designed to incorporate five light rail lines, a tunnel, and a transit station beneath downtown Nashville.

However, voices from Middle Tennessee have expressed concerns about the rapid growth of the city and the perceived impact of newcomers on its heritage, with some asserting that these changes may not necessarily be for the better.

Despite its allure as a vibrant destination, the reality is that Nashville’s infrastructure remains lacking in certain respects. The city’s interstates are frequently congested due to narrow lanes and an identified need for additional lanes. Moreover, as more individuals opt to reside in the city’s suburbs and surrounding areas, those who lack access to personal vehicles encounter significant challenges in commuting to Nashville.

It is imperative for Nashvillians to strike a balance between upholding the essence of their cherished hometown while also remaining receptive to the implementation of a robust transit system that can effectively facilitate transportation to and from the heart of the city.

Furthermore, Nashville’s airport serves as a noteworthy exemplar of updated infrastructure. During my stay at the recently constructed Hilton at BNA, I found the airport to be exceptionally modern and accommodating. Notably, the airport featured advanced TSA screening machines that allowed passengers to leave their electronics in their bags without having to extract them during the screening process.

Undoubtedly, BNA stands out as one of the most impressive airports I have experienced in quite some time. It is my hope that the rest of Nashville will undergo similar transformative updates to enhance its overall infrastructure.

My Final Thoughts on Nashville

As I cruised along I-40 in my rented pickup truck, the sweet melody of Kelsea Ballerini’s “Half of My Hometown” filled the air as the sun dipped behind the lush, rolling green hills.

Nashville’s warm southern hospitality cocooned me, and I felt an overwhelming sense of tranquility. I genuinely adore this city – it’s vibrant, spotless, and exudes an irresistible charm.

My advice?

You absolutely have to experience the magic of Music City at least once in your life.