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We recently traveled to Nashville Tennessee to explore the city, the sights, and the music. As it was Christmas time I purposefully avoided the Gaylord Opryland hotel. They have tons of holiday decorations, and are extremely crowded. Instead I west to downtown Nashville.
We stayed at the Omni, right across the street from Bridgestone Arean, where most the big concerts take place. The location of the hotel, and the warm staff made the hotel a wonderful option. It is also new, so everything is high tech, and ready to go. The Omni is connected to the Country Music City Hall of Fame, and the Hatch Show Print Company. This made easy indoor travel, and a fun area to walk to while staying inside.
The Country Music Hall of Fame offers a self-paced tour of the museum. The wide aisles, many seating options, and “at your own pace” aspects of the museum make it VERY ACCESSIBLE, and SPECIAL NEEDS FRIENDLY. Children and adults could definitely spend an afternoon looking at the costumes (think glitter) cars, old videos (hee-haw and more) and maybe even make your own CD. From Johnny Cash and Loretta Lynn to Taylor Swift and Blake Sheldon the musicians and their songs complete the atmosphere. There are special auditory tours, and wheel chairs are available for rent at the entrance. I came out of the museum having learned about country music, television and radio history, and so much more.
After this we were hungry to we headed down to Broadway. This is a great street to catch lunch, listen to some music, and perhaps buy some boots or Nashville t-shirts. For a less crowded, easier to navigate time consider going in the afternoon around 2:00. Many bars have live country music throughout the day, with no cover charges. We found great barbeque, all kinds of musicians on the street corners, and of course an Elvis sighting.
Of Course no trip to Nashville is complete without going to the original Grand Ole Opry. Tickets to concerts, backstage tours, and VIP tours are available seasonally. Check the schedule for information.
Vicky Spencer Rouse
Special Needs Travel Expert
January 9, 2023
