Probably Nashville, Tennessee's most iconic event space, the Ryman Auditorium has been standing proudly on the edge of 5th Avenue North since its inception in the year 1881. Named after its founder, renowned local businessman Thomas Ryman, the building's stunning red sandstone walls and grandiose Gothic-Revival facades enable it to stand out above the rest in the very heart of the city's pleasant urban landscape. Drenched in history, the auditorium's vintage-style wooden stage is no stranger to superstars having hosted the likes of Johnny Cash and the legendary Charlie Chaplin back in the early periods of the 20th-century. The venue's popularity really gained momentum the day it started hosting the Grand Ole Opry radio show, earning it the title 'The Mother Church of Country Music'. Historic site by day, the auditorium transforms into a happening venue for enthralling bluegrass, jazz, classical, country and gospel performances in the evenings.
The oldest print shop in America opened in 1879. For decades, Hatch Show Print was the leading poster printer for circuses, vaudeville shows and sporting events. Today, it is located in the Country Music Hall of Fame and is best known for creating images of Grand Ole Opry stars, thousands of which line the shop's walls. Modern-day artists employ the same techniques that have been used since the 15th century, including printing works on site.
It is fitting that the "Athens of the South" is home to the world's only full-size replica of the ancient Parthenon. Forty-six Doric columns encircle the building. The largest bronze doors in the world, weighing 7.5 tons each, stand at the East and West entrances. Featured is Athena Parthenos, the tallest indoor sculpture in the Western world. Sculptures and friezes are modeled from Elgin Marbles at the British Museum in London. There are also four art galleries. While the prices are reasonable, you can avail discounts for groups of ten or more with a reservation.
Loved by locals and tourists alike, this 1853 mansion was once the centerpiece of a 5,400-acre (2,185 hectares), 19th-century thoroughbred farm and nursery that back then sheltered president Andrew Jackson's thoroughbred. Awash in a stately Greek Revival style, the plantation boasts a dramatically-picturesque landscape that is dotted by many plantation remnants like a stable, the Hardings Cabin and the restored slaves quarters. Still referred to as the “Queen of Tennessee Plantations,” the present 30-acre (12-hectares) environs includes many of the original outbuildings and an antique carriage collection. The plantation has also played host to many famous guests including Presidents Grover Cleveland and General Sherman. Lending insights into the indelible plantation legacy left behind by John Harding, the Belle Meade Plantation is deeply entrenched in a long-standing lineage which has been an important part of the cultural history of America.
A striking glimpse into America's antebellum eon, the Hermitage tells tales of the life of the country's seventh president, Andrew Jackson. Built in 1835, this historic edifice is a confluence of culture and long-standing history. While living at the Hermitage, Jackson ran a general store, tavern and thoroughbred horse racing tracks nearby, which eventually inspired him to cease his work on the Supreme Court and focus on the Hermitage and its nearby enterprises. This classic Greek Revival mansion retains Jackson's original architecture and furnishings. Permeated with the sounds of a biographical film and museum exhibits, the site of the mansion preserves the original 1804 slave cabins, Jackson's tomb, Tulip Grove Mansion, Old Hermitage Church, and Tennessee Confederate Soldier Cemetery. The estate grounds also shelter a delightful plantation. An integral chapter in the course of American history, the Hermitage greatly immortalizes the 'People's President'.
This 200-acre walk-through zoological park is home to the rare and beautiful. You'll encounter cougars, black bears, Bengal tigers, zebras, cheetahs and playful river otters. Kids can even go a bit wild on the Jungle Gym playground. The Croft Center, named for the sisters who left the estate to Grassmere, houses the Unseen New World exhibit and a variety of reptiles. There is also a working farm exhibit and a petting zoo.
Make it a point to visit the Leiper's Fork Distillery, while in the city. This intervention was launched in the year 2016 with an aim to produce some fine whiskey, first pleasing the palettes of locals and slowly nationally. You can take a tour and understand the production right from the first stage of selection of the grain to finally bottling it. Besides the product, they also sell brand merchandise like t-shirts, caps and flasks. You could also enjoy a live music session at the bar housed in the distillery.
When you are looking for a little more than your average tour of the Music City, climb aboard the funniest bus in town. The Jugg Sisters are your hostesses and they will have you laughing and singing all afternoon. As you visit all the major attractions in the city, you will hear the satirical and very risqué commentary of the sisters while riding in comfort on their tacky pink bus. NashTrash Tours is not a very sophisticated ride, as alcohol is allowed to be consumed on the bus, so you might be best to leave the kids at home. If you don't mind the overall "hillbilly" theme, you're sure to have a grand time.
Travelers looking to immerse themselves completely in Franklin's history and culture should head to Franklin on Foot. Dedicated to portraying the fascinating history through a series of compelling storytelling sessions, it is a reputed tour agency that offers a wide range of guided tours conducted by a committed corps of trained and enthusiastic guides. From food, history, crime to ghost tours, there is something for everyone here.
Probably Nashville, Tennessee's most iconic event space, the Ryman Auditorium has been standing proudly on the edge of 5th Avenue North since its inception in the year 1881. Named after its founder, renowned local businessman Thomas Ryman, the building's stunning red sandstone walls and grandiose Gothic-Revival facades enable it to stand out above the rest in the very heart of the city's pleasant urban landscape. Drenched in history, the auditorium's vintage-style wooden stage is no stranger to superstars having hosted the likes of Johnny Cash and the legendary Charlie Chaplin back in the early periods of the 20th-century. The venue's popularity really gained momentum the day it started hosting the Grand Ole Opry radio show, earning it the title 'The Mother Church of Country Music'. Historic site by day, the auditorium transforms into a happening venue for enthralling bluegrass, jazz, classical, country and gospel performances in the evenings.
Music fans can book Nashville on Stage, a popular concert tour that features top acts in the area's best performance halls. History buffs may opt for a ride on the General Jackson Showboat or spend the day touring the Hermitage, home of President Andrew Jackson. Whatever your interests, Johnny Walker Tours have got a tour for you. Extended vacations, including hotel accommodations and deluxe motor coach, may also be arranged for your charter group. Call or visit web site details.
Once the epitome of Southern prosperity and wealth, Franklin, TN has survived through centuries of wars and unrest, to emerge as one of the most well-preserved, historically significant cities in the country. It is in downtown Franklin, that one can see the city’s history still being told by numerous buildings, that are architecturally and aesthetically a wonder to behold. Among the must-see attractions in downtown, are the Masonic Lodge, the first of its kind in the state, the St. Paul’s Church, and the Carter House, which is remembered for the infamous Battle of Franklin in the American Civil War. The downtown is also known for the passel of events it hosts each year, including the Main Street Brew Fest and the Franklin Jazz Festival.