When you visit Nashville, Tennessee, virtually every building you see is more than it seems.  Every restaurant and record store in the city’s downtown area has typically seen its share of big named stars, and most business owners have a unique story or two to share with interested visitors.  What follows is your guide to some of the city’s most famous attractions.

The Grand Ole Opry

The Grand Ole Opry started as a radio show in 1925 and has seen the biggest acts in music.  The famous Ryman Auditorium was the home of the Opry until 1974 and has seen acts ranging from Elvis Presley and Minnie Pearl to Leeann Rimes and the Statler Brothers.  The Opry is largely famous for country music and has displayed everything from modern country to original Nashville bluegrass.

Belle Meade Plantation

Another of the city’s most famous attractions, the Belle Meade Plantation was built in 1853.  This remarkable plantation home is on one of the largest and finest plantations in the state.  The property is home to an old log cabin as well as a mausoleum and more.  It was also home to a significant battle site between the union and the confederacy during the US Civil War, and many of the older structures still show evidence of damage sustained in battle.

Opryland

Though it contains the aforementioned Grand Ole Opry, Opryland is certainly an attraction all its own.  Here, visitors will find paddle wheeled showboats where they can experience live entertainment.  There is an amusement park located on the grounds as well as numerous shops and restaurants.  The park also plays host to a great deal of live entertainment, including some of country music’s biggest stars from today and yesterday alike.

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Located in the heart of Nashville, guests can enjoy the sights and sounds of the Country Music Hall of Fame.  Visitors can find a wide number of artifacts at the museum, including classic guitars used to record some of music’s biggest hits.  There are new exhibits on display all the time, and visitors will find that the museum always offers something new to see and do.

The Parthenon at Centennial Park

Located in the city’s Centennial Park, the Parthenon is a full size replica of the Athens wonder.  Visitors will find a full sized replica of the statue of Athena as well.  Here, visitors can find the city’s art museum which is host to a number of different traveling exhibits as well as its own large personal collection of art from around the world.

Nashville, Tennessee is truly a destination unlike any other.  Few cities have the sort of musical roots that Nashville possesses, and these roots are evident no matter where you go.  In addition to being the home of so many country stars throughout history, however, Nashville is also a historic city in its own right.  Whether you are looking to explore Civil War history, to explore amazing plantations, or just to enjoy some family fun, Nashville has something special on offer just for you.