Nashville On a Rainy Day: 13 Things To Do
Although Nashville summers can be very warm, the capital of Tennessee gets more than its fair share of rain. In fact, with 47 inches of rain per year on average, Nashville is significantly rainier than famously drizzly Seattle. Part of that is because in this southern climate, when it rains, it really pours.
May is by far the rainiest month in Nashville, but no matter when you visit, there's a decent chance you'll have a least a few rainy days. Luckily, the city has some excellent indoor activities so that you can stay dry without sacrificing your sightseeing.
Drop off your bags at a Nashville luggage storage, and you'll be ready to duck the rain at some of these top attractions. Just don't forget a jacket or umbrella to shelter you from the worst of the Tennessee weather.
Grand Ole Opry
The Grand Ole Opry is country music's most iconic stage, and it has been entertaining audiences for almost a century. The show started as a radio broadcast in 1925, and it eventually moved to its current home at the Grand Ole Opry House in 1974.
Today, the Grand Ole Opry features a mix of classic country stars and contemporary artists. It's definitely worth seeing, even if you're not a big country music fan. And if you are a fan, then this is a can't-miss activity.
Just keep in mind that the show only runs on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. So plan your trip accordingly, or you'll be left out in the rain.
Country Music Hall of Fame
They don't call Nashville Music City for nothing. This town is synonymous with country music, and music fans won't want to miss this fun indoor activity located right in downtown Nashville. The Country Music Hall of Fame is one of the city's top tourist attractions, and for good reason. The interactive exhibits tell the story of the growth and evolution of country music in Nashville and beyond.
This is a great thing to do in Nashville on a rainy day for confirmed country music fans. However, there are so many crossover artists that have emerged from Nashville to dominate music charts around the world that just about everyone will find something of interest at this indoor activity. You don't have to love country music to enjoy the Country Music Hall of Fame. But if you didn't like the genre before your visit, you may well love it afterward.
Nashville Zoo
The Nashville Zoo is one of the best zoos in the country, and it's a great place to spend a rainy day. The zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals, including some rare and endangered species. Highlights include the Siberian tigers, African lions, and red pandas.
The Nashville Zoo also has several interactive exhibits where you can learn about the animals and their habitats. And if you really want to get up close and personal with the animals, several behind-the-scenes tours let you do just that. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Nashville with kids.
Just be sure to check the weather forecast before you go. The zoo is open rain or shine, but some of the outdoor exhibits and tours may be closed if it's raining too hard.
Belle Meade Plantation
Belle Meade Plantation is a historic plantation that was once one of the largest and most successful in the country. Today, it's a popular tourist attraction with a focus on education. Visitors can take guided tours of the mansion, grounds, and outbuildings, learning about the plantation's history and how it operated.
The plantation also has a number of interactive exhibits, including a Civil War museum. And if you're interested in horseback riding, Belle Meade offers trail rides that let you explore the property on horseback. Just be sure to check the weather forecast before you go. The trail rides are only offered when the weather is nice.
The Belle Meade Plantation is a great place to visit on a rainy day in Nashville if you're interested in learning about the city's history. It's also a good option if you're looking for something to do with the family. Just be aware that some of the activities and tours are weather-dependent.
Tennessee State Museum
The Tennessee State Museum is a great place to learn about the state's history, culture, and art. The museum has many permanent exhibits that cover topics like the Civil War, Native Americans, and Tennessee's role in the Civil Rights Movement. There are also temporary exhibits that change regularly.
The museum is located in downtown Nashville, and it's a great option for an indoor activity on a rainy day. Just be aware that it can be quite crowded on weekends. If you go on a weekday, you'll have a better chance of seeing the exhibits without too much of a crowd.
Adventure Science Center
The Adventure Science Center is a great place to spend a rainy day if you're traveling with kids. One of the best museums in Nashville, it has a number of hands-on exhibits that focus on science and technology. Kids can learn about astronomy, engineering, and biology while having fun at the same time.
The Adventure Science Center also has a planetarium and an IMAX theater. And if you really want to get your adrenaline pumping, you can experience zero gravity in the center's centrifuge simulator. Just be sure to check the website before you go. Some of the attractions may be closed due to maintenance or repairs.
Ryman Auditorium
The Ryman Auditorium is a historic concert venue that was once home to the Grand Ole Opry. Today, it's one of the most popular tourist attractions in Nashville. Visitors can take guided tours of the auditorium, learning about its history and architecture. So if you don't get to see a concert, a guided tour can give you a deep insight into the history and importance of this legendary music venue.
And if you're a music fan, there's no better place to see a concert than the Ryman Auditorium. The venue hosts a wide range of musical acts, from country music to rock and roll. Just be sure to check the website before you go. Concerts are typically only held on certain days of the week.
National Museum of African American Music
The National Museum of African American Music is a new museum that opened in 2016. It's dedicated to celebrating the contributions of African Americans to music. The museum has some interactive exhibits, including a recording studio where visitors can make their own music.
The museum is located in downtown Nashville, and it's a great option for an indoor activity on a rainy day. Just be aware that it can be quite crowded on weekends. If you go on a weekday, it will be a more relaxing attraction.
Johnny Cash Museum
The Johnny Cash Museum is a must-visit for any fan of the Man in Black. The museum chronicles Cash's life and career, exhibiting his early life, his time in the military, and his rise to stardom. The museum also has several artifacts from Cash's career, including stage outfits, instruments, and handwritten lyrics.
The legacy of Johnny Cash's music extends far beyond the world of country, and he remains one of the most successful crossover country artists in music history. That's why this Music City attraction is a great thing to do in Nashville on a rainy day and is sure to give you a deeper understanding of one of music's most enduringly popular figures.
Explore East Nashville
East Nashville has been called one of the coolest neighborhoods in America, and it's easy to see why. This hipster haven is home to great bars, restaurants, and shops. And on a rainy day, it's the perfect place to explore Nashville's creative side.
There are some great places to grab a drink in East Nashville. The 5 Spot is a dive bar that's been serving up cheap drinks for years. 3 Crow Bar is another popular option, with an extensive beer list and a relaxed atmosphere. For something a little different, try Diskin Cider. This cidery has a wide range of ciders on tap, as well as a few rotating seasonal flavors.
If you get hungry, East Nashville has you covered. Two Ten Jack is a popular spot for ramen and sushi. Baja Burrito Co. is a great place to go for Mexican food. And if you're in the mood for some comfort food, try Urban Cowboy Public House. This restaurant serves up Southern classics with a twist, like chicken and waffles with sriracha honey.
After you've grabbed a bite to eat, explore some of the best shopping in Nashville here. Hip Zipper is a vintage clothing store that's perfect for finding unique pieces. Portland Brew is a great spot for coffee lovers and offers a wide range of beans from local roasters. And Fanny's House of Music is the perfect place to find vinyl records and vintage musical instruments.
No matter what you're looking for, you're sure to find it in East Nashville. So if you're looking for things to do in Nashville on a rainy day, this is the perfect place to start.
Frist Art Museum
The Frist Art Museum is one of the most popular museums in Nashville. It's located in the historic Frist Center for the Visual Arts, and it features a wide range of art from local and international artists. The museum has rotating exhibits, so there's always something new to see. And best of all, admission is free!
If you're looking for things to do in Nashville on a rainy day, the Frist Art Museum is a great option. Just be sure to dress warmly – the museum can be quite chilly inside.
Brewery and Distillery tours
One of the best things to do in Nashville on a rainy day is to take a tour of one of the city's many breweries or distilleries. Nashville has a thriving craft beer scene, and there are a number of great breweries to choose from. Tennessee Brew Works is a popular option, with a wide range of beers on tap and a spacious taproom. Yazoo Brewing Company is another great choice, and their taproom often has live music.
If you're looking for something stronger, Nashville also has several great distilleries. Corsair Distillery is one of the most popular choices, and they offer tours of their facility and tastings of their products. Nelson's Green Brier Distillery is another option, and they also offer free tours of their facility.
No matter what you're looking for, there's sure to be a brewery or distillery tour that's perfect for you. So if you're looking for things to do in Nashville on a rainy day, this is a great option.
The Hermitage
The Hermitage is a historic plantation that was once home to President Andrew Jackson. The plantation is located just outside of Nashville, and it features historic buildings, including the mansion where Jackson lived. The plantation also has a museum that tells the story of Jackson's life, as well as the history of slavery in America.
If you're looking for things to do in Nashville on a rainy day, the Hermitage is a great option. Just be sure to dress appropriately – the grounds can be quite muddy when it's wet outside.
Conclusion
No matter when you visit Nashville, it's highly likely you'll experience at least some wet weather. But that doesn't have to stop you from having a great time. Store your luggage securely in a Bounce luggage locker, then get ready to enjoy some of the city's best indoor activities.