If you’re looking to get away for a few days or even a week, there are always places to go and experiences to be had—especially when you get to visit one Southwest’s 99 cities across the United States and 10 additional countries! Nobody knows a city and its hidden gems better than the Employees who live and work there. Check out a few of our Employees' favorite places in the Nashville area and share your hidden gems in our comment section below!
Interested in sharing your travel inspiration? Leave a comment below or visit our Travel Inspiration Discussion Forum to share your knowledge with Southwest Customers.
Hit the Town
Nashville has a lot of great neighborhoods that are off the grid and away from Broadway. I suggest going to East Nashville, a really cool eclectic side of town with a lot of great restaurants and bars like Rosepepper Cantina—home to some amazing Mexican food and the best margaritas in town. If you’re looking to stuff yourself to the gills with some great southern food right by the airport, Monell's at the Manor is the place to be. As far as sites to visit, Centennial Park is beautiful and has a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon right in the middle, and history buffs should drive 25 miles south to Franklin where a major Civil War battle took place.
-BNA Operations Agent Jaclyn Owens
Kiddin’ Around
Sky High Sports is an indoor trampoline park by the airport that will help your kids burn off excess energy. It’s $14 an hour, but they run some pretty good specials. Also Cornerstone’s indoor playground is our go-to destination on rainy days—plus it’s free! Other great, kid-friendly options on the outskirts of town are the Nashville Zoo and Nashville Shores water park.
-BNA Station Administrator Mandie Fisher
Take the kids on an exotic adventure at the Nashville Zoo.
Worth the Drive
Take a drive to Fontanel Mansion, the former home of country star Barbara Mandrell. Not only do you get a tour of her house and grounds, but there also is a zip line, winery, restaurants, and shops all within walking distance. Arrington Vineyards, located in the rolling hills of Tennessee Wine Country, has some amazing views, great picnic areas, and offers free wine tasting.
-BNA Customer Service Agent Susan Bricker
Music City 101
The Honky Tonks down on Broadway are always a good time—my favorite is The Stage. We also have the Wildhorse Saloon Downtown, which is a three-story bar that has live bands every night and features national acts quite a bit. There is a lot of good talent downtown with bands starting as early as 10 a.m. The Mother Church of Country Music, also known as The Ryman Auditorium, is the original home of the Grand Ole Opry and a must-see for all music lovers.
-BNA Ramp Agent Mark Byers
Stay Grounded
Middle Tennessee is chock full of rivers, streams, waterfalls, ridge tops, valleys, and other natural wonders that make for gorgeous hiking trails. My absolute favorite is Radnor Lake. Right in the heart of a residential neighborhood, Radnor’s 1,300 plus acres of trails and forests provide a peaceful and scenic retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Get your camera ready because you will most likely catch an up-close glimpse into the wonderful world of wildlife including deer, turkeys, and eagles!
-Community Affairs & Grassroots Regional Leader Ana Schwager
Do you have any Nashville Hidden Gems? Please share them with us!