Nashville Group Travel Planner 2009

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2009

Group travel planner

www.visitmusiccity.com

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2009 NASHVILLE GROUP TRAVEL PLANNER CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS MOLLY SUDDERTH MANAGING EDITOR SUSAN CHAPPELL COPY EDITOR JOYCE CARUTHERS SENIOR WRITER CINDY SANDERS DATABASE PROJECT MANAGER YANCEY TURTURICE DATA MANAGER RANETTA SMITH

CONTENTS MUSIC CALLS US HOME

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SONGS FOR ALL SEASONS

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EXPANDING THE PLAYLIST

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ITINERARIES

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FACTS & INFORMATION

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BUREAU SERVICES

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ATTRACTIONS

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AD PROJECT MANAGER LISA DUNAWAY SALES SUPPORT MANAGER SARA SARTIN SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER BRIAN McCORD STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS JEFF ADKINS, TODD BENNETT, ANTONY BOSHIER, IAN CURCIO, J. KYLE KEENER, JESSE KNISH PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT ANNE WHITLOW ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY THE NASHVILLE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU CREATIVE DIRECTOR KEITH HARRIS PRODUCTION DIRECTOR NATASHA LORENS ASST. PRODUCTION DIRECTOR CHRISTINA CARDEN PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR HAZEL RISNER PRODUCTION PROJECT MGRS. MELISSA HOOVER, JILL WYATT SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS LAURA GALLAGHER, KRIS SEXTON, CANDICE SWEET, VIKKI WILLIAMS LEAD DESIGNER JESSICA BRAGONIER GRAPHIC DESIGN ERICA HINES, ALISON HUNTER, JANINE MARYLAND, AMY NELSON, MARCUS SNYDER WEB PROJECT MANAGERS ANDY HARTLEY, YAMEL RUIZ WEB DESIGN RYAN DUNLAP, CARL SCHULZ

SHOPPING

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SPORTS & RECREATION

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LODGING

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EVENTS

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TOURS & TRANSPORTATION

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DINING

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NIGHTLIFE & ENTERTAINMENT

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COLOR IMAGING TECHNICIAN TWILA ALLEN AD TRAFFIC MARCIA BANASIK, SARAH MILLER, PATRICIA MOISAN, RAVEN PETTY CHAIRMAN GREG THURMAN PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER BOB SCHWARTZMAN EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT RAY LANGEN SR. V.P./CLIENT DEVELOPMENT JEFF HEEFNER SR. V.P./SALES CARLA H. THURMAN SR. V.P./OPERATIONS CASEY E. HESTER V.P./SALES HERB HARPER V.P./SALES TODD POTTER V.P./VISUAL CONTENT MARK FORESTER V.P./TRAVEL PUBLISHING SYBIL STEWART V.P./EXECUTIVE EDITOR TEREE CARUTHERS MANAGING EDS./BUSINESS MAURICE FLIESS, BILL McMEEKIN MANAGING ED./COMMUNITY KIM MADLOM PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR JEFFREY S. OTTO CONTROLLER CHRIS DUDLEY ACCOUNTING MORIAH DOMBY, RICHIE FITZPATRICK, DIANA GUZMAN, MARIA MCFARLAND, LISA OWENS RECRUITING/TRAINING DIRECTOR SUZY WALDRIP

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COMMUNITY PROMOTION DIRECTOR CINDY COMPERRY DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR GARY SMITH IT SYSTEMS DIRECTOR MATT LOCKE IT SERVICE TECHNICIAN RYAN SWEENEY HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER PEGGY BLAKE CUSTOM/TRAVEL SALES SUPPORT RACHAEL GOLDSBERRY SALES/MARKETING COORDINATOR RACHEL MATHEIS SALES COORDINATOR JENNIFER ALEXANDER EXECUTIVE SECRETARY/SALES SUPPORT KRISTY DUNCAN OFFICE MANAGER SHELLY GRISSOM RECEPTIONIST LINDA BISHOP The Nashville Group Travel Planner is published by Journal Communications Inc. for the Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau. For advertising or other information about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080, or by e-mail at info@jnlcom.com.

COVER PHOTO BY JEFFREY S. OTTO BVWa UcWRS Wa ^`W\bSR ]\ ^]ab Q]\ac[S` `SQgQZSR ^O^S` T`][ O [WZZ bVOb ac^^]`ba OZZ Q`SRWPZS T]`Sab QS`bW¿ QObW]\ ^`]U`O[a

CU S TO M M AG A Z INE M ED I A © Copyright 2008 Journal Communications Inc. and the Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau. Logo on page 21 is for reproduction. Other portions may be reproduced with written permission. All rights reserved. Member Member

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For more information and to view the online Nashville Group Travel Planner, visit the Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Web site at www.visitmusiccity.com.

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Music Calls Us Home There are very few cities in the world with names that are instantly recognizable. Nashville is one of those places. Whether it’s a young singer with a guitar slung across his shoulder, music ringing from the rafters of the historic Ryman Auditorium, the sultry sway of a lone sax in a dimly lit supper club or the high-energy pyrotechnics that accompany performances by today’s hottest stars, most everyone thinks entertainment when they hear Music City. But Nashville isn’t just where the music is played, it’s where it is made, and that gives rise to a creative culture that permeates every aspect of the city. Noted writer Richard Florida, author of Who’s Your City? How the Creative Economy Is Making Where To Live the Most Important Decision of Your Life, says Nashville is a place where the best and brightest collaborate with top talent. “Today, it is home to much of the world’s best studio talent,” Florida says, “and has eclipsed even New York and L.A. as the place for music writing, recording and publishing.” w w w.visitmusiccit y.com

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A History of Music How did Nashville come to receive such acclaim? The story begins more than two centuries ago. Founded on December 24, 1779, the first music to come out of Nashville most likely was a Christmas carol as the happy settlers set up camp. From the earliest days, the city’s residents were known to make music. Legend has it the city’s first real “star� was frontiersman Davy Crockett, who was a noted fiddler. It is said that Crockett used the fiddle-playing skills learned in Tennessee to rouse his troops at the Alamo. Within five decades, Nashville already was in the music publishing business. The first efforts produced a popular hymnal in 1824. Today, the city is internationally recognized as the headquarters for religious publishing and is home to the Gospel Music Association and Christian Music Trade Association. By the late 1850s, Charles Benson, who owned a local music store, penned and published a song that became immensely

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popular during the Civil War. The city had produced its first hit. Nashville’s national and international reputation as a music center was launched a few years later, when the city’s first touring group formed. Fisk University, which was founded in 1866 for the higher education of blacks, faced an uncertain financial future.

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To raise funds, the school’s choral group, the Fisk Jubilee Singers, embarked on an international tour in the early 1870s. Queen Victoria of England was so impressed and moved by the beautiful harmonies, she commissioned a large portrait of the original singers. Today, the oil painting hangs in Jubilee Hall on the Fisk campus.

By the turn of the century, Nashville had its first permanent music publishing business, as well as a union chapter of the American Federation of Musicians. When WSM radio was founded in 1925, Nashville already was well on its way to being recognized as one of several American music centers. It was, however, an offhanded quip during a 1932 program featuring harmonica legend DeFord Bailey that catapulted the city’s entertainment reputation and ultimately paved the way for Nashville to take its rightful place as Music City. A 50,000-watt, clear-channel station, WSM was heard by much of the country. Each Saturday evening, the station hosted the “WSM Barn Dance,� a homespun music program featuring regional pickers and singers. The program aired after a satellite broadcast of the New York Opera. One evening, announcer George D. Hay began the show by saying, “Folks, for the last hour, you’ve been listening to music taken largely from the grand opera – well, y’all just sit on back ’cause from now on, you’re gonna hear the Grand Ole Opry!�

A Mecca for Songwriters Once the city was established as a performance center, it didn’t take long to extend its musical reach to the business side of the entertainment industry. Popular Grand Ole Opry star Roy Acuff and his partner, Fred Rose, were the first to form a music publishing firm. By 1944, RCA Victor had come to town to record the music of Opry talent Eddy Arnold. In 1948, Nashville had its first million-selling song and had to build a record-pressing plant to keep up with demand. Although country music is most readily identified with Nashville, the city’s musical heritage represents many genres. From early religious tunes and down-home Southern music to the rockabilly sound made famous by Elvis Presley and Roy Orbison, the diversity of music written and recorded in Nashville is legendary.

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The rise of the creative culture in the city – consisting of talented songwriters, singers, musicians, producers and marketing executives – acted as a lure to performers from across the musical spectrum. James Brown, the Everly Brothers, Joan Baez, Sir Paul McCartney, Jimmy Buffet, Bob Dylan, Amy Grant, Steven Curtis Chapman, Kirk Whalum, Bela Fleck, REO Speedwagon, Nelly, The Beach Boys, Jessica Simpson and Jon Bon Jovi have all recorded here. Even the great Jimi Hendrix credited Nashville as being where he really learned to play guitar. These artists represent rock, pop, jazz, gospel, Christian contemporary, blues, rap, hip-hop and classical. Of course, there’s still a lot of country proudly coming out of Nashville. Popular acts such as Kenny Chesney, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban and Tim McGraw fill stadiums around the world. Cable television stations, including CMT and GAC, serve a similar role as the old clear-channel radio stations did almost a century ago. The Nashville sound echoes across the nation. Over the past two centuries, Nashville has grown into a true center for all musical styles. This mix of creativity influences new sounds as the ever-evolving music industry continues to expand. This is where ideas are born, skillfully coaxed into musical scores and lyrics, and launched as hits heard around the world. No wonder music calls us home. w w w.visitmusiccit y.com

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Songs for all seasons No matter what the season, Music City has something to sing about. You will, too, when you take advantage of the special events that are scheduled throughout the year. In addition to these highlights, please see the Events section on pages 58-64 for a list of other exciting options. For the very latest on what’s happening during your stay in Nashville, go to www.visitmusiccity.com.

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just part of the slate of activities in the fall. In early November, fans around the country celebrate “Country Music’s Biggest Night” during the nationally televised CMA Music Awards. The annual event, held at the Sommet Center, brings together country’s top superstars for an evening of recognition and, of course, full out entertainment. The Music City Walk of Fame Induction Ceremony takes place during CMA week, too.

Spring AWESOME APRIL

There are simply so many events scheduled in April that the month can only be described as awesome! The GMA Dove Awards, CMT Music Awards, Tin Pan South songwriters’ festival, Nashville Film Festival, Music City Walk of Fame Induction Ceremony and the Country Music Marathon & 1/2 Marathon kick off a spring full of fun events.

Summer A COUPLE HOT ACTS

The summer heats up with two big events in June and July. The CMA Music Festival pulls out all the stops in early June, when country’s hottest stars play their hits on various downtown stages during the popular four-day festival. A month later, you can wish America happy birthday at the annual Music City July 4th: Let Freedom Sing! celebration at Riverfront Park. Ranked by AOL CityGuide as No. 2 in the nation, the all-day festival offers great food and live music along the banks of the Cumberland River. As darkness descends, stars (Michael McDonald and Phil Vassar headlined the 2008 event) take the stage for an evening of entertainment that culminates with one of the nation’s most spectacular fireworks displays synced to patriotic favorites performed by the internationally renowned, Grammy-winning Nashville Symphony. The event was recently named as one of AOL’s Top Booms With a View.

Winter HOLIDAY HARMONY

Come home for the holidays as Music City bids goodbye to another year in grand style with a full slate of cultural events, concerts, theatrical performances and historic celebrations. The beauty and magic of the season are underscored by the lavish light displays and decorations that envelop the city through November and December. There’s no place like Nashville for the holidays.

Autumn FULL OUT FALL

Jazz on the lawn of a historic home, a gathering of noted authors, Titans football and Predators hockey games, the African Street Festival, barbecue cook-offs, handmade crafts, World of Bluegrass, a Celebration of Cultures and a birthday bash for the Grand Ole Opry are w w w.visitmusiccit y.com

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Expanding the PlayList There’s always something new and exciting happening in Music City. Whether it’s a popular attraction unveiling a special exhibit, new dining and hotel choices, unique nightlife venues or more options for shopping, Nashville is a destination that offers something for everyone. In a city that already boasts a long roster of options, expanding the playlist only enhances the Music City experience. We invite you to see firsthand all that’s new and noteworthy.

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A Warm Welcome Stop by one of our two Visitor Information Centers – in the glass tower of the Sommet Center downtown at the corner of Broadway and Fifth Avenue South, and on the lower level of the US Bank Building at Commerce Street and Fourth Avenue North. Our helpful staff can fill you in on all the latest news from Nashville, help plan the perfect trip, provide maps and information highlighting area attractions and even offer discounts to some of the city’s most popular sights and sounds. You can see XM Radio tapings and live entertainment on a new stage at the Sommet Center site.

Music City Walk of Fame, located along the Music Mile. The musical legends are announced twice a year at ceremonies held in April and November. Recent inductees include country icons Hank Williams Sr., Merle Kilgore and Steve Wariner, plus jazz saxophone great Kirk Whalum, Christian music powerhouse Steven Curtis Chapman and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. In addition to an expansive permanent collection, the Country Music Hall of FameŽ and Museum features two blockbuster exhibits in 2009 – Family Tradition: The Williams Family Legacy and Kitty Wells: Queen of Country Music. The 5,000-square-foot Williams exhibit, running through the end of the year, explores the genius and legacy of father and son. Running through June, the Kitty Wells exhibit pays homage to the original “Honky-Tonk Angel,� a true trailblazer who paved the way for women to take a starring role in country music. Everyone knows Nashville is filled with stars, and now they are even easier to examine up close. The Adventure Science Center has recently completed a $20 million project that has transformed the Sudekum Planetarium into one of the nation’s premier spots for stargazing. The expansion increased the planetarium’s dome from 40 feet to 60 feet and added a new 12,000-square-foot interactive Sky and Space wing. Three dozen displays and more than 60 interactive stations, including the opportunity to experience weightlessness, are available.

Added Attractions Twice a year, Nashville honors the men and women who write, perform, promote and produce the Nashville sound at the

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Nashville’s vibrant arts scene includes both visual and performing arts. The Frist Center for the Visual Arts will welcome several special exhibits in 2009. The year begins with Paint Made Flesh, featuring figure paintings created in Europe and America from the 1950s through 2006. Artists include Pablo Picasso, Francis Bacon, Willem de Kooning, Alice Neel and many others. In the fall, the museum hosts The City in Twilight: Surrealism, Photography and Paris 1924-1939. The new Andy Warhol Gallery at Vanderbilt features w w w.visitmusiccit y.com

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150 of the iconic artist’s Polaroids, photographs and prints. The Vanderbilt Fine Arts Gallery is a beneficiary of the Photographic Legacy Program, which fulfills Warhol’s dream of creating a foundation to advance the visual arts and to make his work more accessible to the public. On your mark, get set, go! Adventurous guests can’t wait to try out the new five-story, six-lane water slide at Nashville Shores. The Music City Racer is 350 feet of face-first fun as the light turns green and racers plunge downhill at speeds of up to 35 miles per hour before coasting to a stop. There can only be one winner, but everyone is guaranteed to have fun. Pygmy goats and porcupines are just a few of the critters adjusting to their new homes at the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere. As the accredited facility continues to expand into a world-class zoological park, new animal habitats are continuously being added. In 2008, two African crested porcupines, the largest of their kind in sub-Saharan Africa, were added to a habitat near the Bamboo Trail. The four young pygmy goats, known for their playful, sociable manner, have found a home in the Critter Encounters exhibit, where guests can experience a variety of animals up close. Expansion plans continue in 2009 with the addition of Caribbean flamingos.

Shopping Is Hopping Green Hills is rapidly becoming a mecca for upscale shopping options, ranging from designer boutiques to fashionable department stores. In 2008, Nordstrom announced plans to open its first Nashville store in fall 2010 at the elegant Mall at Green Hills, which is already home to Tiffany’s, Louis Vuitton, Coach, Stuart Weitzman and Betsey Johnson, among many others. Other additions to the popular shopping destination include Burberry, Juicy Couture and Georgiou Studio. The latest announcements follow the recent opening of The Hill Center, a lifestyle venue off Hillsboro Pike that features such well-known retailers and restaurants as California Pizza Kitchen, Five Guys Burgers and Fries, Anthropologie, west elm, Swoozie’s, Whole Foods Market, Posh and Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams.

When the Sun Goes Down

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Building on the city’s already large base of lodging, dining and nightlife options, several new or renovated hotels offer guests even more options for sweet dreams. Hutton Hotel is one of the city’s newest lodging choices, and perennial favorites Renaissance Nashville Hotel and Union Station Hotel recently have completed major

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renovations that enhance meeting facilities, guest rooms and public spaces. Of course, with so many new dining and nightlife choices, sleeping is optional in Music City! Nashville Originals, the city’s group of independent restaurants, has more than 50 tasty options to try. These restaurants serve up everything from coffeehouse fare and downhome dining to global cuisine. Once dinner is done, it’s time to hit the town, which is never a problem in Music City. Nashville is host to long-established clubs and famed honky-tonks and has recently welcomed several new additions to the nightlife scene. Two of the latest are hot spots Fuse and FUEL. Fuse is the hip, new club at Gaylord OprylandŽ Resort and Convention Center, where guests can dance the night away to today’s top hits. FUEL, located downtown, has a very different vibe, with a more casual garage theme that features live bands playing original music. If all of the tunes make you want to sing along, then Big Bang Dueling Pianos is the right place to be, or for a quieter evening, try F. Scott’s Restaurant and Jazz Bar in Green Hills. w w w.visitmusiccit y.com

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Itineraries Come Out and Play. With so much to see and do, it’s easy to come up with an action-packed itinerary. The only real issue is ďŹ guring out the best way to squeeze so much fun into your Music City stay. To maximize your time in Nashville, consider the following themed itinerary suggestions.

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A Taste of Music City Nashville’s diversity appeals to visitors who have a wide range of interests. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, you can get a feel for Nashville’s rich cultural scene by visiting the many sites that pay homage to music, history and the arts. Other itinerary options can be added to meet your group’s specific interests along with a multitude of dining and nightlife choices. With so many different possibilities, it’s easy to arrange sightseeing trips that minimize travel time between stops. Look through the itineraries on the following pages for ideas, or feel free to call the professionals at the Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau at (800) 657-6910 to assist you in customizing the perfect tour for your group.

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Of Pioneers and Presidents

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The Nashville Sound No visit to Nashville would be complete without exploring the city’s rich musical heritage. While our entertainment roots are proudly gospel and country, the modern music scene encompasses all types of musical genres. Today’s Nashville sound is very different than it was even a generation ago. Many area attractions do an excellent job exploring the history of the city’s renowned entertainment industry and honoring its pioneers. In the evenings, the vibrant music scene features live entertainment on stages all around town. Downtown/Midtown: Learn more about music by visiting the Country Music Hall of FameŽ and Museum, Historic RCA Studio B, Hatch Show Print, Ryman Auditorium, Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum, Gruhn Guitars, Printers Alley, Schermerhorn Symphony Center and the Music City Walk of Fame. Opryland/Music Valley: This area includes the Grand Ole Opry, Grand Ole Opry Museum, Acuff Theater, General Jackson Showboat, Nashville Nightlife Breakfast & Dinner Theater and Ernest Tubb’s Midnite Jamboree.

Nashville’s colorful historic characters not only shaped Tennessee but also influenced the nation. Two U.S. presidents made their homes in Middle Tennessee, and several other key historic figures made an impact here. Downtown/Midtown: Tennessee State Capitol, Tennessee State Museum, Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, Fort Nashborough and Belmont Mansion East: The Hermitage, Home of President Andrew Jackson South: Tennessee Agricultural Museum, Fort Negley and Travellers Rest Plantation & Museum West: Belle Meade Plantation, Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art Further Afield: Historic Carnton Plantation and The Carter House (Franklin) and the James K. Polk Ancestral Home (Columbia)

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Arts and Gardens Like most metropolitan cities, Nashville’s arts scene encompasses both the visual and performing arts. Long known as the Athens of the South for the emphasis placed on education and the fine arts, the city is recognized today as a cultural center with outstanding art collections, beautiful gardens and professional performance companies, including the renowned Nashville Symphony. Downtown/Midtown: Frist Center for the Visual Arts,

Schermerhorn Symphony Center, Tennessee Performing Arts Center, Tennessee State Museum, Hatch Show Print, Nashville Children’s Theatre, Tennessee Art League & Galleries, The Arts Co., The Carl Van Vechten Art Gallery and The Aaron Douglas Gallery at Fisk University, Miss Marple’s Dinner Theatre, the Parthenon, Upper Room Art Gallery, and Sarratt Gallery at Vanderbilt University and the Vanderbilt Fine Arts Gallery, which includes the recent addition of 150 photographs and prints by pop art icon Andy Warhol East: The Hermitage, Home of President Andrew Jackson South: Tennessee Agricultural Museum, Fort Negley and Travellers Rest Plantation & Museum West: Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art, LeQuire Gallery and Chaffin’s Barn Dinner Theatre

Family-Friendly Fun

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Nashville offers many options for groups that include children, with a long list of age-appropriate activities. In addition to itinerary options drawn from music, history or the arts, tours with young travelers might also want to incorporate some of the following sights: Downtown/Midtown: Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park and ArtQuest at the Frist Center for the Visual Arts

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East: Nashville Shores Northwest: A Cowboy Town South/Southeast: Adventure Science Center and

Sudekum Planetarium, Nashville Zoo at Grassmere and the Lane Motor Museum

An American Melting Pot Diversity is an important element of the city’s past, present and future. While slavery was undeniably a part of plantation life in Middle Tennessee, the area was also one of the first to embrace economic and educational freedom for former slaves once the Civil War ended.

Today, Nashville is an American melting pot, with thriving Hispanic, Middle Eastern, American Indian and Asian communities, and the largest Kurdish population in the United States. These different cultures, religions and customs have blended together to form a harmonious modern-day metropolitan area. Several area attractions celebrate the accomplishments and milestones of various cultures that enrich Nashville. The African American Guide to Nashville provides additional tour ideas and is available at both downtown locations of the Nashville Visitor Information Center. Plans are also under way for the Museum of African American Music, Art & Culture, set to open in the near future. Downtown/Midtown: Civil Rights Rooms at the Nashville Public Library, Fort Negley, exhibits on black musical pioneers at the Country Music Hall of FameŽ and Museum and the Musicians Hall of Fame, Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, The Aaron Douglas Gallery at Fisk University, Scarritt-Bennett Center Museum and the Jefferson Street shopping district West: Original works by noted African-American sculptor Will Edmondson are on display at Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art and Belle Meade Plantation’s exhibits are linked to slave culture. East: Archaeological digs at The Hermitage, Home of President Andrew Jackson, have uncovered many artifacts and information detailing the journey from slavery to freedom.

Sip and Swirl Within a short drive of Nashville, Arrington Vineyards, Jack Daniel Distillery and George Dickel Distillery all offer the opportunity to learn more about the making of wine and spirits. The two Tennessee sipping whiskeys are known around the world for their smooth flavor. Arrington, which is co-owned by Kix Brooks of the hit country duo Brooks & Dunn, offers vineyard tours and a dozen different wines for tasting. All three explain the history and craft behind their manufacturing processes.

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Facts & INFORMATION VISITOR INFORMATION

RELOCATION SERVICES

The Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) operates two downtown Visitor Information Centers (VIC), offering discounted attraction tickets, special hotel rates, a plethora of brochures and coupons, and concierge assistance.

Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce 211 Commerce St., Ste. 100 (615) 743-3000

501 Broadway (615) 259-4747 The VIC in the glass tower of the Sommet Center, located at the corner of Fifth Avenue South and Broadway, has a gift shop and wireless café with a large selection of Nashville souvenirs. Open 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 150 Fourth Ave. N. (615) 259-4730 The VIC in the US Bank Building, at the corner of Fourth Avenue North and Commerce Street, features music-themed giftware, art and accessories, as well as free maps. Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 40541, 37204 (615) 216-5737 Nashville Black Chamber of Commerce 4121 Clarksville Pike, Ste. 8 (615) 876-9634 Nashville Downtown Partnership 150 Fourth Ave. N., Ste. G150 (615) 743-3090

NASHVILLE CITY MAPS

REALTORS Del Webb at Lake Providence 104 Grey Place Mt. Juliet, (615) 773-2535 www.delwebb.com/nashville Nashville’s premiere resort-style community for active adults 55 and better, featuring world-class amenities.

City maps are available at the VIC, the CVB, the Nashville International Airport, the Nashville Convention Center, the Metropolitan Courthouse and in a majority of hotel lobbies.

Bernice Burns, RE/MAX Elite 109 Westpark Drive, Ste. 100 Brentwood, (615) 585-9053 www.homesbybernice.com

DISABILITY SERVICES

Village Real Estate Services 301 Church St. Nashville, (615) 279-7299 www.villagerealestate.com

Disability Information Office Howard Office Building, information and referral office: (615) 862-6492 MTA Access Ride Wheelchair-equipped van service: (615) 880-3970 Call in advance for reservations. $2.50 flat rate.

INTERNATIONAL SERVICES FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE Regions Bank Downtown and most branches: (615) 748-2941

For more information, visit www.visitmusiccity.com.

Weather Nashville is blessed with four distinct but mild seasons and an abundance of warmth and sunshine. Avg. Daily High/Low

Nashville International Airport Wright Travel Business Center: (615) 275-2660

Yearly

TRANSLATION SERVICES Foreign Language Institute 404 James Robertson Pkwy. (615) 741-7579

Summer (June-August)

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Spring (March-May)

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Fall (September-November)

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Winter (December-February)

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Bureau SERVICES LEAD GENERATION Once your tour dates are set, the Nashville CVB can act as your local connection to availability, rates, event and attraction options and more, saving you from having to make multiple phone calls.

ITINERARY PLANNING Let the Nashville CVB help you customize itineraries to meet a group’s specific needs, or see the itinerary ideas in the front of this guide. Call the Nashville CVB or visit us online at www.visitmusiccity.com for more information.

TOUR THEMES U Overall tour themes such as Nashville by Night; Historic Nashville; Arts, Gardens and Antiques; Students and Youth; Multicultural Tours and many others can help you set the tone for individual tours. U Themed itinerary ideas – such as a mint julep break at the Belle Meade Plantation, a Tennessee whiskey sipping tour with Jack Daniel and George Dickel distilleries, BBQ cookout at Jack Daniel, group line dancing lessons at the Wildhorse Saloon – add special memories for clients. The Nashville CVB staff has the latest information on special offerings for groups at the city’s various attractions. Call or visit the Groups section of our Web site.

PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS U Nashville video footage: Limited dub copies of Nashville b-roll footage are available in VHS and Beta-SP formats. A promotional video is available for loan on DVD or may be downloaded from our Web site. U Artwork: Digital images are available to enhance your printed pieces and may be downloaded from our Web site or ordered on a CD. These images are cleared for out-of-market use to promote Music City as a premier tour and travel destination. See pages 24-25 for a selection of images. U Additional items: A variety of promotional materials is available to build excitement for your Music City tour. A minimal charge is required for some items.

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTERS U The Nashville Visitor Information Centers, located at the corner of Fifth Avenue South and Broadway (in the glass tower of the Sommet Center) and at the corner of Fourth Avenue North and Commerce Street (in the US Bank Building), offer motorcoach groups a 10 percent discount on merchandise.

U The Nashville CVB also has discount ticket packages for individuals through the Visitor Information Centers. Call our Marketing Department at (615) 259-4793 to inquire about Nashville attraction tickets. The discounted ticket program is perfect for your individual packages, FITs, wholesalers and AAA offices.

FOR MORE INFORMATION NASHVILLE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 150 Fourth Avenue North, Suite G-250 Nashville, TN 37219 Phone: (615) 259-4705 Fax: (615) 244-6278 E-mail: tournashville@visitmusiccity.com www.visitmusiccity.com U.K. OFFICE Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau Woodlands Park Street Hitchin, Herts, SC4 9AH United Kingdom Phone: 44 146 244 0007 Fax: 44 146 244 0783 E-mail: david@david-nicholson.com www.deep-south-usa.com GERMANY OFFICE Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau Horstheider Weg 106a D-33613 Bielefeld, Germany Phone: 49 521 986 0415 Fax: 49 521 986 0411 E-mail: wolfgang.streitboerger@tennesseetourism.de www.tennesseetourism.de RHYTHMS OF THE SOUTH: SOUTHERN MARKETPLACE Phone: (407) 539-2513 Fax: (615) 259-4775 E-mail: liz@rhythmsofthesouth.com www.rhythmsofthesouth.com

LOGOS You are welcome to incorporate our logo into your promotional materials. If you have questions regarding resolution quality or software programs, please contact the Creative Services Department at (615) 259-4734.

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Collateral MATERIALS

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Nashville Vacation Guide – complimentary Points-Of-Interest map – complimentary African American Guide to Nashville – complimentary Music City Hits (Volumes 1-3 – $12.99, Volume 4 – two-disc set – $15.99) Nashville stickers (available in platinum and gold) Sheet of 6=$.40 Nashville metal or plastic lapel pins (metal available in platinum and gold; plastic available in gold) Metal pins=$2, Plastic pins=$.40 Nashville postcards 4x6=$.50 Gift bags 10.5x8=$.75, 13x15=$1 Music City stickers $1 Nashville general brochure – complimentary 2009 Hits brochure – complimentary

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The Nashville CVB is pleased to offer a variety of promotional materials to assist in building excitement for your upcoming visit. These materials may be ordered online in the Groups section of the NCVB Web site, www.visitmusiccity.com.

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Concert at Riverfront Park Live Music Downtown – Lower Broad Municipal Auditorium Schermerhorn Symphony Center The District Downtown Nashville Skyline Legislative Plaza Ryman Auditorium Adventure Science Center and Sudekum Planetarium Shelby Street Pedestrian Bridge Nashville Zoo at Grassmere Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum Nashville Visitor Center at Sommet Center Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park LP Field – Titans Stadium Nashville Convention Center Legends Club of Tennessee Gaylord Opryland® Resort Grand Ole Opry General Jackson Showboat

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Opry Mills Gruhn Guitars The Hermitage, Home of President Andrew Jackson Belle Meade Plantation Belmont Mansion Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art Barbershop Harmony Society headquarters Fisk Jubilee Singers Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum Wall of gold records at the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum Guitars Nashville’s famed honky-tonks Studio B Lane Motor Museum Nashville Shores Frist Center for the Visual Arts Nashville Predators Jack Daniel Distillery Athena at the Parthenon Hatch Show Print Parthenon

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Attractions While music is certainly our calling card – and we do, indeed, have a lot of attractions that showcase the Nashville sound – there are many other sights that make Nashville a great place to visit. To help you find your way, the listings in this section are arranged alphabetically.

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Live Music Earth Friendly American Express Carte Blanche Diners Club Discover EnRoute Japanese Credit Bureau MasterCard Visa

Art Galleries The Arts Company 215 Fifth Ave. N. 254-2040, www.theartscompany.com The Arts Company exhibits in a prime downtown art destination. New exhibits monthly, opening during First Art Saturday receptions. Curatorial and project service. Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art 1200 Forrest Park Drive 353-8000, www.cheekwood.org Cheekwood is a 55-acre botanical garden and art museum on the historic Cheek estate. With nationally recognized collections of American and contemporary painting and sculpture, a botanical garden named in the “Top Five” by Southern Living magazine, and year-round family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone at Cheekwood! Admission fee. Discounts: Military, Web. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Complimentary admission for driver or escort. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 15. Group Capacity: 127. Guided tours available.

The Parthenon Centennial Park, 2600 West End Ave. 862-8431, www.parthenon.org The world’s only full-scale replica of the famous Greek temple, Nashville’s Parthenon stands in Centennial Park and features the city’s art museum and “Athena Parthenos.” At almost 42 feet in height, she is the tallest indoor sculpture in the Western world. 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tue.-Sat.; June-August: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Sun. Admission fee. Rymer Gallery 233 Fifth Ave. N. 752-6030, www.therymergallery.com The Rymer Gallery is Nashville’s largest contemporary gallery featuring works by over forty artists from all over the world. We are located on Fifth Avenue of the Arts in the epicenter of Nashville’s central business district. Free. Credit Cards: Sarratt Cinema and Gallery at Vanderbilt University Sarratt Student Center, Vanderbilt Place near 24th Avenue 343-6666, www.vanderbilt.edu/sarratt

Frist Center for the Visual Arts 919 Broadway 244-3340, www.fristcenter.org The family-friendly Frist Center is a world-class art complex dedicated to an ever-changing schedule of exhibitions from local, regional, national and international sources. The center also features the interactive ArtQuest gallery, educational programs, gift shop and café.

Cinema features second-run, foreign, classic and independent films fall, winter and spring. Gallery features changing exhibits. Call or visit Web site for schedule. Free. Snow Gallery 1517 Dallas Ave. 386-9485, www.snowgallery.net A neighborhood gallery where historical and contemporary art are juxtaposed in a provocative dialogue bridging eras and cultures. Rotating current exhibits complement an outstanding collection of rare prints, textiles, sculpture and more. A small, intimate, handsome and always interesting setting.

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The Nashville Association of Art Dealers (NAAD) is a consortium of art galleries committed to increasing community awareness and support for the visual arts.

Tennessee Art League 808 Broadway 736-5000, www.tennesseeartleague.org Nonprofit arts organization with art galleries featuring local and regional exhibits and gift shop featuring local artists. Tennessee State Museum Fifth and Deaderick Street 741-2692, www.tnmuseum.org Exhibits trace the history of Tennessee and the nation from prehistoric Indians through the Civil War into the early 1900s. The Tennessee State Museum offers special displays on quilts, silver, weapons, paintings and pottery.

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LeQuire Gallery 4304 Charlotte Ave. 298-4611, www.lequiregallery.net The gallery features contemporary paintings, drawings and sculpture with an emphasis on figurative work. Exhibits change quarterly with work from Alan LeQuire – the nationally recognized sculptor of “Musica” and “Athena Parthenos” – always on view. Nashville Association of Art Dealers P.O. Box 150243, 37215 297-0286, www.nashvilleartdealers.net All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

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The focus of Tinney Contemporary gallery is to present contemporary artwork from a large portfolio of artists. We present a series of rotating exhibitions throughout the year and participate in the Downtown Gallery Crawl each first Saturday of the month. The Upper Room Chapel and Museum 1908 Grand Ave. 340-7207, www.upperroom.org/chapel The Upper Room features international Christian art including a life-size woodcarving of The Last Supper. From November-January, enjoy more than 100 nativity scenes. March-May features the Passion story of Jesus in art plus breathtaking Ukrainian eggs. Donations encouraged. Free parking.

Complimentary bus parking. Complimentary admission for driver or escort. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 40. Group Capacity: 127. Advertising Partner, p. 27 Adventure Science Center 800 Fort Negley Blvd. 862-5160, www.adventuresci.com Brings science to life through interactive exhibits such as the Adventure Tower, Body Quest, the new Sudekum Planetarium shows and daily science programs. Encourage your child’s imagination and curiosity through the wonders of science at the Adventure Science Center. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat.; 12:30-5:30 p.m. Sun. Admission fee.

Agricultural Museum Ellington Agricultural Center 837-5197, www.tnagmuseum.org The museum has an extensive collection of home and farm artifacts from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Also on the property is a log cabin community with a wooded trail and gardens.

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Tinney Contemporary 237 Fifth Ave. N. 255-7816, www.tinneycontemporary.com

9 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Open weekends for special events. Closed holidays. Free. Arrington Vineyards 6211 Patton Road, Arrington 395-0102, www.arringtonvineyards.com Arrington Vineyards is 25 minutes south of Nashville in the beautiful hillsides of Arrington. AV currently offers 12 free wine tastings. We have a gift shop and breathtaking views from our deck

8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; closed all major holidays. Free. Advertising Partner, p. 36 Woodcuts Gallery & Framing 1613 Jefferson St. 321-5357, www.woodcutsfineart.com Conveniently located next to Fisk University, Woodcuts Gallery and Framing offers a wide variety of ethnic art and specializes in custom framing. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sat. Admission fee. Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards:

Attractions A Cowboy Town and Meadowlark Lodge 3665 Knight Drive, Whites Creek Weekdays: 242-6201, Weekends: 876-1029 www.acowboytown.com

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Go back in time to experience all the fun of the Old West. Enjoy horseback riding, canoeing, hiking, hayrides, fishing, cowboy singing, gunfights, bonfires, Wild West shows and campfire suppers. Credit Cards: A Tribute to the KING: Thru the Years 1953-1977 Texas Troubadour Theatre, 2416 Music Valley Drive 758-0098, (866) 811-2502 www.thenashvilleking.com Since 1999, this high-energy, live musical biography starring John Beardsley has been transporting audiences through six eras of “The King’s” career. With more than 30 songs and five costume changes, this show thrills audiences of all ages ... come see why! March-Nov., general admission seating 6:30 p.m. Mon. and Thu.; show 7 p.m. Box office opens at 10 a.m. day of show. Admission fee. Credit Cards: All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

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Belmont Mansion 1900 Belmont Blvd. 460-5459, www.belmontmansion.com Completed in 1853, Belmont was recognized as one of the most elaborate and unusual homes in the antebellum South. The home’s mistress, Adelicia Acklen, secretly conspired with both Confederate and Union forces to emerge from the Civil War with her fortune intact. Guided tours. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 1-4 p.m. Sun. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park 600 James Robertson Pkwy. 741-5280, (888) TN PARKS www.tennessee.gov/environment/ parks/Bicentennial/ Tour Tennessee via a 200-foot granite map, a walkway featuring the 95 counties, 31 fountains representing the major rivers of Tennessee and an extraordinary history wall. The park also includes a large carillon, World War II Memorial, 2,000-seat amphitheater and visitor center. 6 a.m.-10 p.m. daily. Free. Carnton Plantation 1345 Carnton Lane, Franklin 794-0903, www.carnton.org

It Starts With a Song Nashville is one of the nation’s true creative centers. Music isn’t just played here – it’s created here. By day, visitors will enjoy learning more about the singing legends, talented musicians and hard-working industry professionals that take an idea from concept to chart climber. The Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum, Ryman Auditorium, Grand Ole Opry Museum, Music City Walk of Fame, Historic RCA Studio B and the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum all provide a behind-the-scenes view of Nashville’s most famous industry. By night, put all that new knowledge to the test in clubs around town. Every genre is well represented in this performance town. Blues, bluegrass, jazz, country, rock, rap, pop, classical – Music City is playing your song. and patio. Every weekend we have Music in the Vines. Live music in the evenings for free. Free. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Guided tours available. Belle Meade Plantation 5025 Harding Pike 356-0501, (800) 270-3991 www.bellemeadeplantation.com Belle Meade Plantation is a 30-acre historic site six miles west of Nashville. The centerpiece of the property is the Belle Meade mansion, built in 1853. This Greek Revival house was home to five generations of the Harding-Jackson family, original owners of the Belle Meade Farm. In the late 19th century, the farm encompassed 5,400 acres and

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was one of the largest private estates in Nashville. The farm was a thoroughbred nursery famous for breeding and training championship race horses. Recent Kentucky Derby winners such as Funny Cide and Barbaro, and racing legends such as Secretariat can trace their bloodlines back to the breeding stock at Belle Meade. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat.; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. (last tour at 4 p.m.); closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Admission fee. Discounts: AAA, Military. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Complimentary admission for driver or escort. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 15. Guided tours available. Advertising Partner, p. 29

Home of The Widow of the South, Carnton was a field hospital after the 1864 Battle of Franklin. Restored garden and Confederate cemetery on site. April-October, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat.; 1-5 p.m. Sun.; November-March, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 1-4 p.m. Sun.; closed most major holidays. Admission fee. Discounts: AAA, Military, Web. Credit Cards: The Carter House 1140 Columbia Ave., Franklin 791-1861, www.carterhouse1864.com Built in 1830 by Fountain Branch Carter, witnessed one of the bloodiest battles during the Civil War on Nov. 30, 1864. This Registered Historic Landmark has been open to the public since 1953 and serves as a memorial to the Carter family, as well as the countless heroes of the Battle of Franklin. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat.; 1-5 p.m. Sun. Admission fee. Chaffin’s Barn Dinner Theatre 8204 Highway 100 646-9977, (800) 282-2276 www.dinnertheatre.com Nashville’s first professional theatre. Serving up great buffets and Broadway plays for more than 40 years. Evening buffet 6-7:30 p.m., show 8 p.m.; Sun. buffet noon-1:30 p.m., show 2 p.m. Admission fee. Discounts: AAA, Military, Web. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Complimentary admission for driver or escort. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 12.

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“Dukes of Hazzard” museum and theme store operated by Ben “Cooter” Jones — featuring the General Lee, props, memorabilia and personal appearances by original cast members. Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum 222 Fifth Ave. S. 416-2001, (800) 852-6437 www.countrymusichalloffame.com In the heart of downtown Nashville’s vibrant entertainment district, the 130,000-square-foot museum offers breathtaking views of the city and is conveniently located within walking distance of major downtown hotels and the Nashville Convention Center. Event space includes an 11,000-square-foot glass-roofed conservatory, four theaters, the elegant Hall of Fame rotunda, and 40,000 square feet of gallery space. On-site catering is available for groups of 30 to 2,300. Advertising Partner, p. 1

Fort Negley Adjacent to Adventure Science Center and Greer Stadium 862-8470, www.nashville.gov/parks/ historic/historic-ftnegley.htm

riverboat cruises the Cumberland River and offers fantastic shows and delicious meals. Special event cruises are offered throughout the year with holiday shows beginning in mid-November.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Fort Negley was the largest and most important Union fortification built after Nashville fell in 1862 during the Civil War. The complex design was built primarily by slaves and free black workers conscripted into service.

Lunch and dinner cruises; call for schedule.

General Jackson Showboat 2812 Opryland Drive 458-3930, www.generaljackson.com

Visit the distillery to discover George Dickel’s award-winning whiskey and its time-honored traditions. The Visitors Center is filled with antiques and special memories. Advertising Partner, this page

Climb aboard the General Jackson Showboat for a unique entertainment experience. This 300-foot paddlewheel

George Dickel Distillery & Visitor Center 1950 Cascade Hollow Road, Tullahoma (931) 857-3124, Ext. 229 www.georgedickel.com

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Cooter’s Place Nashville 2613 McGavock Pike 872-8358, www.cootersplace.com

Cumberland Caverns 1437 Cumberland Caverns Road, McMinnville (931) 668-4396 www.cumberlandcaverns.com Discover Tennessee’s largest show cave and U.S. Natural Landmark. Open year round, seven days a week, with daily scenic walking tours, daytime adventure trips, and overnight spelunking with camping in the cave. Cumberland Caverns is the home of Bluegrass Underground. Tours conducted daily. May-Aug., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sept.-April, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission fee. Falcon Rest Mansion 2645 Faulkner Springs Road, McMinnville (931) 668-4444, www.falconrest.com In 1896, “Gorilla Pants” manufacturer Clay Faulkner promised his wife “the grandest mansion in Tennessee.” Today, it’s been called “Tennessee’s Biltmore” by PBS and some say the 10,000-squarefoot Victorian mansion is presided over by a friendly ghost. Tours daily. Admission fee. Credit Cards:

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Fort Nashborough Riverfront Park 862-8400, www.nashville.gov/parks/ historic/fortnashborough.htm Nashville was founded when James Robertson led his group of pioneers across the frozen Cumberland River and built Fort Nashborough. This replica of the original settlement reflects the lifestyle of frontier pioneers in the late 1700s. Self-guided tour. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tue.-Sun., weather permitting. Free. All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

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Grand Old Golf & Go Karts 2444 Music Valley Drive 871-4701, www.grandoldgolf.net This award-winning miniature golf complex with three courses and a large game room also is the mid-state’s largest go kart track. Near Gaylord Opryland® Resort and Opry Mills in Music Valley. Year-round. Admission fee.

For the Young at Heart Nashville is a city with a wealth of activities for active seniors. The city’s mild climate makes it easy to spend time outdoors. If you’re into animals, the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere showcases exotic creatures from around the world in natural habitats with nice walking paths that meander through the grounds. Speaking of strolling, you won’t want to miss the beautiful gardens and sculpture trail at Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art. When it’s time to head inside, there are just as many options. While at Cheekwood, check out the rotating art exhibitions and permanent displays in the Cheek Mansion, which is worth seeing for its stunning architectural features. Other attractions worth a visit include the Frist Center for the Visual Arts, the Carl Van Vechten Gallery at Fisk University, the Parthenon, Lane Motor Museum, the Upper Room Chapel and Museum, and the many art galleries that call Nashville home. Country fans will enjoy stargazing at the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum, too.

Grand Ole Opry 2802 Opryland Drive 871-OPRY, www.opry.com What began as a simple radio broadcast in 1925 is today a live-entertainment phenomenon dedicated to honoring country music’s rich history and dynamic present with a mix of country legends and the contemporary chart-toppers who have followed in their footsteps. Shows are at 8 p.m. on Fri., at 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. on Sat., and at 7 p.m. on Tue. (March through Dec.). Performs at the Ryman Auditorium Nov. through Feb.; Opry House March through Oct. Advertising Partner, p. 28 Grand Ole Opry Museum 2802 Opryland Drive 871-OPRY, www.opry.com This unique museum pays tribute to the world’s longest-running radio show and its stars with exhibits honoring legends, including Patsy Cline, Marty Robbins, Roy Acuff, Minnie Pearl and Little Jimmy Dickens, as well as today’s chart-topping artists. Hatch Show Print 316 Broadway 256-2805, www.hatchshowprint.com Owned and operated by the Country Music Hall of Fame ® and Museum, Hatch has been in business since 1879 and is one of the nation’s oldest-known letterpress poster shops. Hatch has

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The Hermitage, Home of President Andrew Jackson 4580 Rachel’s Lane 889-2941, www.thehermitage.com Experience an American adventure at the home of our nation’s seventh President, Andrew Jackson. Guides in period costume welcome guests to this grand 1837 mansion. Enjoy our audio and wagon tours highlighting slave life on this 1,120 acre farm and explore the many other historic structures, heirloom garden and tomb where the President and his wife are buried. Admission fee. Discounts: AAA, Military, Web. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Complimentary admission for driver or escort. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 20. Guided tours available. Advertising Partner, p. 32

Laser Quest 166 Second Ave. N. 256-2560, www.laserquest.com Laser Quest is an interactive adventure game for ages 5-85. Unbeatable fun for social or group outings, student trips, sports teams, family reunions and corporate teambuilding events. Thirty or more play together, available rain or shine, private bookings available. Lotz House 111 Columbia Ave., Franklin 790-7190, www.lotzhouse.com Guided tour of the Civil War house with fine antiques and stories of the Lotz family during the Battle of Franklin. “This collection of antiques is by far the finest private collection of American Victorian Furniture in the Southeast.” - Wendell Garrett at The Magazine Antiques.

Military History Branch of The Tennessee State Museum War Memorial Building, Fifth Avenue and Deaderick Street 741-2692, www.tnmuseum.org Located in the War Memorial Building as a tribute to veterans, the military museum features exhibits on America’s involvement in foreign wars from the Spanish American War to World War II. Exhibits showcase weapons, uniforms and battle histories. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tue.-Sat. Free.

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created original art for vaudeville, circuses, Grand Ole Opry stars, concerts and sporting events. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. Free.

Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum 301 Sixth Ave. S. 244-3263, www.musicianshalloffame.com Rock, pop, soul, country, blues and jazz all in one place ... this special venue pays homage to hit-making musicians,

Historic RCA Studio B Tours depart from Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum 416-2001 www.countrymusichalloffame.com Get an up-close look at “The Home of 1,000 Hits” where Elvis, Chet Atkins, Dolly Parton and many more made music. From the 1950s through the 1970s, more than 35,000 songs were recorded here including “It’s Now Or Never” and “I Will Always Love You.” Hours vary; call for details. Admission fee. Jack Daniel Distillery 182 Lynchburg Hwy., Lynchburg (931) 759-6180, www.jackdaniels.com The Jack Daniel Distillery is the oldest registered distillery in the country and among the most prestigious listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors receive personally guided distillery tours and observe the famous whiskey-making process perfected in 1866. Multilingual brochures. 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. daily; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Corporate conference facility available (seats 100, classroom style). Advertising Partner, p. 20

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Lane Motor Museum 702 Murfreesboro Pike 742-7445, www.lanemotormuseum.org Cars with two heads, two engines or three wheels. These and other oddities make up this unique collection of 150 cars and motorcycles at the home of the largest European collection in the U.S. Only three miles from downtown Nashville. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thu.-Mon. Free. Credit Cards: All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

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Nashville Shores 4001 Bell Road, Hermitage 889-7050, www.nashvilleshores.com Nashville Shores is a 385-acre family recreation destination 10 minutes from downtown. It is composed of a water park, 20 group event sites, an event management team, festival areas, marina, mini-golf, boat and Jet Ski rental, and other attractions. Admission fee. Discounts: AARP, Military, Web. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Complimentary admission for driver or escort. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 15. Group Capacity: 127. Nashville Visitor Information Center – Broadway 501 Broadway 259-4747, www.visitmusiccity.com In the glass tower of the Sommet Center,

this VIC has a gift shop with a large selection of exclusive Nashville souvenirs. The Information Center also offers discounted attraction tickets, special hotel rates, a variety of brochures, coupons, concierge assistance, live music and a relaxing atmosphere. 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Mon.-Sat.; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. Free. Nashville Visitor Information Center – Fourth Avenue 150 Fourth Ave. N., Ste. G-250 259-4731, www.visitmusiccity.com In the US Bank building, this VIC features music-themed giftware, art and home accessories. The Information Center also offers discounted attraction tickets, special hotel rates, a variety of brochures, coupons and concierge assistance. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Free. Nashville Zoo at Grassmere 3777 Nolensville Road 833-1534, www.nashvillezoo.org Featuring a wide variety of exotic animals from around the world thriving in beautiful, natural habitats. In addition, the zoo offers animal shows, keeper talks, a carousel, historic home and farm, the enormous Jungle Gym playground, gift shops and concession areas. Admission fee. Discounts: Military. Credit Cards:

Complimentary bus parking. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 20. Advertising Partner, this page Opry Mills 433 Opry Mills Drive (877) SHOP FUN, www.oprymills.com Opry Mills is the ultimate shopping adventure with more than 200 outlet and specialty retailers, dining and entertainment venues under one roof. Featuring Bass Pro Shops, Build-A-Bear Workshop, Off 5th-Saks Fifth Avenue, Harry and David ... just to name a few. Complimentary wheelchair rentals. Stroller rentals available. 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sun. Advertising Partner, inside front cover

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whether they were in the limelight or behind the scenes. Also features minitheater, performance hall, music school, recording studio and shop. Admission fee. Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Web. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Complimentary admission for driver or escort. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 20. Guided tours available.

Ryman Auditorium 116 Fifth Ave. N. Reservations & Ticketing: 889-3060, Administrative Offices: 458-8700 www.ryman.com Built in 1892, this National Historic Landmark offers tremendous entertainment opportunities. Take a museum or backstage tour of the former home of the Grand Ole Opry. Record your own CD in the new Ryman Recording Studio. Then return at night for a premier concert event. Evening showtimes vary.

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Scarritt-Bennett Center 1008 19th Ave. S. 340-7500, www.scarrittbennett.org A tree-filled oasis in the heart of the city, the award-winning architecture at ScarrittBennett Center is collegiate Gothic built from multi-colored crab orchard stone quarried in East Tennessee. Once a college dedicated to the education of missionaries, today it is a conference and retreat center. Self-guided tours and prearranged tours available. Credit Cards: Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame & Museum Sommet Center, 501 Broadway 242-4750, www.tshf.net Featuring sports from team to extreme!

Visitors can play virtual reality one-onone basketball, strength train like an Olympic swimmer, hop in a kayak to simulate shooting the rapids on the Ocoee River and learn more about Tennessee’s sports heroes. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat. Tennessee State Capitol Charlotte Avenue between Sixth and Seventh Avenues 741-2692, 741-0830 www.tnmuseum.org The historic Tennessee State Capitol, designed by William Strickland, stands today much as it did when completed in 1859. One of the oldest working antebellum capitols in the nation, several areas have been restored to

their 19th-century appearance. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Closed major holidays. Free. Travellers Rest Plantation & Museum 636 Farrell Pkwy. 832-8197, www.travellersrestplantation.org Built in 1799 by Judge John Overton, Travellers Rest is Nashville’s oldest historic house open to the public. The site has witnessed over 1,000 years of history from the Mississippian Indians to the Battle of Nashville. Travellers Rest offers both self-guided and guided tours of the grounds and the historic buildings. Special tours and holiday events are also offered. We have a modern meeting facility that can accommodate up to 150 attendees. A full kitchen for use by a caterer is available. Ample parking at no cost. Admission fee. Discounts: AAA, Web. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Complimentary admission for driver or escort. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 12. Guided tours available. United Record Pressing 453 Chestnut St. 259-9396 For more than 40 years, United Record Pressing has been pressing the grooves in Music City for major and “justgetting-started” labels. They offer professional vinyl records, lacquer mastering, plating, printing, pressing and fulfillment services. Take a tour of the facility or use it as a unique venue for your next event.

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Vanderbilt University Vanderbilt University, 2201 West End Ave., Station B 322-7311, www.vanderbilt.edu Located a mile and a half from downtown Nashville, the campus is a parklike setting. Vanderbilt is home to more than 300 tree and shrub varieties and was designated a national arboretum in 1988. Buildings on the original campus date to its founding in 1873. Wave Country 2320 Two Rivers Pkwy. 885-1052, www.nashville.gov/parks Dive into this wave action, freshwater pool and water slide complex including two speed slides dropping from a 40-foot tower. Packing your own picnic is acceptable. Floats can be rented, and there’s plenty of shade. 4-6 p.m. Mon.-Thu.; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Memorial Day-Labor Day (weekends only after the first day of school in midAug.). Admission fee. Discounts: AARP.

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36 Nashville Group Travel Planner

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If you long for clothes, souvenirs or even home furnishings, spend some time at the city’s many malls and eclectic shopping districts. Recently featured in Lucky Magazine, Nashville offers both national chains and unique, independent shops with items to fit any budget.

A Basket Case Inc. Serving all of Middle Tennessee 261-8555, www.abasketcase.com Specializing in custom gift baskets for any event or occasion including popular Tennessee baskets filled with local products. Call or go online to order. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sat. The District Don’t miss the heart of Nashville. Located on the banks of the Cumberland River, these charming, century-old Victorian buildings house chic restaurants, hip nightclubs, and trendy shops with everything from jewelry to clothing to local art and nostalgic Americana.

Golf is the sport’s most trusted retailer. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat.; 12-5 p.m. Sun. Ernest Tubb Record Shops Downtown: 417 Broadway, Opryland Area: 2416 Music Valley Drive 255-7503, 889-2474 www.ernestubb.com Specializing in hard-to-find classics, traditional country & bluegrass CDs, DVDs, books, and souvenirs. Open seven days a week. Downtown location: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 9 a.m.-1:30 a.m. Sat.; 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Sun. Call for winter hours. Opryland area location: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 9 a.m.-1:30 a.m. Sat.; 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Sun. Call for winter hours.

Edwin Watts Golf – Nashville 2510 Music Valley Drive 883-0125

Hartmann Factory Store 1301 W. Baddour Pkwy., Lebanon 449-8000, www.hartmann.com

Make your next shopping experience unbelievable at Edwin Watts Golf. Offering the best selection in equipment, apparel and accessories from the biggest names in golf, like Taylor Made, Callaway, Nike, Ping and more. Stop by to see why Edwin Watts

Since 1877, Hartmann has handcrafted the world’s finest luggage, business cases and personal leather accessories. Arrange a tour of the plant (444-5000) and shop at tremendous savings at the Hartmann Factory Store. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Sat.; 1-5 p.m. Sun.

SHOPPING

Shopping

Historic East Nashville Merchants Association www.eastnashville.org Venture to historic East Nashville and find hidden treasures: art, furniture, clothing, dining, gifts and much more. Southern Living raved about Nashville’s new hot spot: “Its low-key vibe, neighborly feel, and down-to-earth personality make this community a great place to escape the city without leaving town.” Historic Franklin www.visitwilliamson.com This beautiful 15-block downtown district features century-old buildings restored with breathtaking architecture and beautiful brick-lined sidewalks. Go back in time with more than 70 retail and specialty shops, art galleries, antiques shops, restaurants and more. Jefferson Street Shopping District A historic African-American business and shopping district featuring an eclectic mix of options ranging from art galleries to salons. Kraus Gallery at Loews Vanderbilt Hotel 2100 West End Ave. 321-0500, www.loewshotels.com

Shop ’Til You Drop The savvy shopper will discover a wonderful array of attractive items at unique area boutiques, ranging from handcrafted items by local artisans to rare recordings and antique treasures. From the unusual shops in Hillsboro Village and on 12th Avenue South to the interesting variety of stores you’ll find in Green Hills and downtown Nashville, it’s easy to go home with a keepsake or two. There’s no doubt that you’ll find the perfect gift for that special someone or an unusual item to call your own at one of the city’s many one-of-a-kind shops.

All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

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Original paintings by internationally renowned Nashville artist Harold Kraus. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat.; additional hours by appointment. Macy’s In Nashville for vacation or business? A special welcome, plus exclusive savings, await you! Visit Macy’s during your trip and we’ll help you find the season’s hottest trends. Best of all, you can use our reserved-for-visitors-only Savings Pass to save 11% on almost everything in the store. With an ID, simply request a Macy’s Welcome Savings Pass from gift wrap department. (Some exclusions apply.) The Mall at Green Hills 298-5478, www.themallatgreenhills.com Immerse yourself in the exceptional at Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, Cole Haan, BCBG Max Azria, Sephora, Anne Klein, Marmi Shoes, Brooks Brothers, Coach, Brighton, Restoration Hardware, Z Gallerie, Swarovski Jewelry, Stuart Weitzman, Ann Taylor, Abercrombie & Fitch, Macy’s, Dillard’s, The Cheesecake Factory and 100 other fine shops and eateries. 10 a.m.-9 p.m Mon.-Sat.; noon-6 p.m. Sun.

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38 Nashville Group Travel Planner

The Museum Store at the Country Music Hall of FameŽ and Museum 222 Fifth Ave. S. 416-2093 www.countrymusichalloffame.com One of the largest inventories of vintage, import and current country music titles anywhere. Also choose from an extensive selection of books related to country music, plus cool clothes and unique items you won’t find back home. Museum admission not required. 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. daily. Closed Tuesdays in Jan. and Feb.

Visit Nashville’s premier shopping, dining and entertainment destination. Opry Mills combines 200 discount and specialty retailers, theme restaurants and entertainment venues under one roof. Including Off 5th Saks Fifth Avenue Outlet, Ann Taylor Loft, Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Liz Claiborne, and Build-A-Bear Workshop™. Special group programs offered. 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sun. Advertising Partner, inside front cover

Nashville Farmers’ Market 900 Rosa L. Parks Blvd. 880-2001 www.nashvillefarmersmarket.org

Prime Outlets – Lebanon One Outlet Village Blvd., Lebanon 444-0433, (800) 617-2588 www.primeoutlets.com

Located adjacent to the Bicentennial Mall, Farmers’ Market has seven restaurants, a food building, two greenhouses and 208 open-air stalls. Open year-round. Flea market every weekend. Fresh fruits, vegetables and plants.

More than 50 brand-name outlets including Polo Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Ann Taylor Factory Store and Coach, and an enclosed food court and a children’s playground. Special gift bags can be prepared for groups, and bus drivers eat free. Only 25 miles east of downtown Nashville on I-40 Exit 238.

8 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. Opry Mills 433 Opry Mills Drive (877) SHOP-FUN, www.oprymills.com

10 a.m.-9 p.m. Mon.-Sat.; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sun.

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The city’s pro teams give fans a lot to cheer about, and the SEC and ASC collegiate games certainly add to the action. If you want to play, head to one of Nashville’s many recreational venues to get your game on.

Nashville Sounds AAA affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers; 72 home games, 534 Chestnut St. 242-4371, www.nashvillesounds.com

signature, on-the-edge excitement. Group tickets available at a discounted rate. All-Inclusive Zone available with game tickets and all-you-can-eat food and beverage. Suites can also be rented on a game-night basis.

The Nashville Sounds, Triple-A affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers, is a great family-friendly entertainment option.

Marathon

Baseball

Basketball Nashville Broncs 823-1086, www.nashvillebroncs.com The Nashville Broncs, your new ABA professional basketball team, celebrates its inaugural season at the Nashville Municipal Auditorium in 2008-09.

Country Music Marathon & 1/2 Marathon 742-1660, www.cmmarathon.com Entering its 10th year, the marathon welcomes more than 30,000 runners the last Saturday of April. In Music City style, the race features local bands every mile and a post-race concert headlined by some of music’s hottest

stars. This certified course is a qualifier for the Boston Marathon.

Motor Sports

SPORTS & RECREATION

Sports & Recreation

Music City Motorplex Tennessee State Fairgrounds, 625 Smith Ave. Tickets & Information: 726-1818, F: 726-0691 www.musiccitymotorplex.com Rated the NASCAR “No. 1 Short Track in America.� NASCAR-sanctioned racing Saturday nights weekly from MarchNovember. Divisions include: Late Model Stock Cars, SuperTrucks and Sportsman. Also, 1/4-mile racing each Saturday. Races begin at 6:30 p.m.

Football Gaylord Hotels Music City Bowl LP Field 743-3130, www.musiccitybowl.com Founded in 1998, this annual postseason college football game pits an SEC team against an ACC rival. The 3 p.m. game, nationally televised on ESPN, has become a favorite Nashville – and national – holiday tradition. Tickets go on sale to the general public through Ticketmaster in September. Tennessee Titans – NFL LP Field, One Titans Way Information Line: 565-4178 www.titansonline.com One of 32 teams participating in the National Football League, the AFC South Tennessee Titans play in their 68,800-seat home, LP Field. On the east bank of the Cumberland River in downtown Nashville, the stadium is widely known for having “the loudest fans!� Regular-season games run September-December.

Hockey Nashville Predators – NHL Sommet Center, 501 Broadway Tickets & Information: 770-PUCK, F: 770-2309 www.nashvillepredators.com Coming off another playoff season, the Nashville Predators are ready to begin their 11th-anniversary season with their

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All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

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Spas Adagio Massage Co. & Spa 1300 Division St. 777-0602 Adagio Massage Co. & Spa provides spa services and serious, resultsoriented skin care in a most relaxing environment. Relâche 2800 Opryland Drive 458-1772, www.gaylordopryland.com

Get in the Game

No matter what your sport, Nashville offers a lot of ways to get in the game. Enjoy challenging resort and public golf courses, an array of indoor and outdoor tennis facilities and multiple running events, including the annual Country Music Marathon & 1/2 Marathon, drawing 30,000 runners to the starting line each April. If you prefer the action from the sidelines, then the pros with the NFL Tennessee Titans, NHL Nashville Predators, AAA Nashville Sounds and ABA Nashville Broncs are sure to give you a reason to cheer. For those who like their sports at lightning speed, there are NASCAR, Indy and ARCA races at area speedways. With approximately 20 local colleges and universities, collegiate sports are in play every season of the year. Fans will also want to visit the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, paying tribute to the state’s athletic legends.

Collegiate Sports The Nashville area is home to more than 20 colleges and universities that offer sports fans exciting action on nearly a year-round basis, highlighted by Southeastern Conference, Ohio Valley Conference and Atlantic Sun Conference play. Major athletic programs exist at Belmont University, David Lipscomb University, Middle Tennessee State University, Tennessee State University and Vanderbilt University, among others. Contact each school’s athletic department for specific sports schedules and ticket information.

Recreation

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fun can be found under one enormous roof. Offering billiards, cosmic bowling and more than 150 video and videosimulated games. More than 6,000 square feet available for private events. 11 a.m.-midnight Sun.-Thu.; until 1 a.m. Fri.-Sat. Free. Metro SkatePark at Two Rivers Park 2320 Two Rivers Pkwy. 862-8400, www.nashville.gov/parks The park offers a state-of-the-art facility for skateboarding, freestyle in-line skating and BMX bike riding. Skaters can perform a range of tricks from ollies to pop shuvits on the ramps, pipes, bowls, oververt and other structural components. Free.

Dave & Buster’s 540 Opry Mills Drive 514-1202, www.daveandbusters.com

Thomas F. Frist Centennial Sportsplex Tennis Center 222 25th Ave. N. 862-8490, www.sportsplextennis.com

Eat. Drink. Play. Create your own experience inside a world of entertainment where great food, signature drinks and one-of-a kind

A $20-million, 145,000-square-foot, yearround family center for ice skating, fitness, swimming and tennis (indoor and outdoor courts). Individual passes available.

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Whether to work off the stresses of the day or for pure pampering, Relâche will meet your needs. Guests will enjoy blissful pampering at the opulent 27,000-square-foot European-inspired spa with 12 private treatment areas featuring a full range of massage, skin renewal, facials, body therapies, and nail, hand and foot care, and hairstyling. Indoor/outdoor pool and a state-of-theart fitness center. Spa: 7:30 a.m.-8 p.m. daily. Reservations strongly recommended. Fitness Center: 24 hours. Indoor Pool: 6 a.m.-10 p.m. Outdoor Pool: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Wax Nashville 6600 Highway 100 356-0919, www.waxnashville.com We are a full-service waxing and skin care shop. We offer body waxing for men and women, cleansing facials, active peels, makeup application for events, massage and spray tanning. We are located in the heart of Belle Meade’s antique district on Highway 100, where anybody in the area can easily stop by in minutes!

Resort Golf Gaylord Springs Golf Links 18 Springhouse Lane 458-1730, www.gaylordsprings.com 18 holes; par 72 Hermitage Golf Course 3939 Old Hickory Blvd., Old Hickory 847-4001, www.hermitagegolf.com Two award-winning, championship golf courses offering more than 14,000 yards of challenging golf. The 6,800-yard General’s Retreat Course received the highest rating in Tennessee from Golf Digest. Playing up to 7,200 yards, the 300-acre President’s Reserve was ranked in the Top Ten in the state of Tennessee. On-site golf instruction and Golf Academy led by Class A PGA pros, full food service, golf shop. 36 holes; par 72 Vanderbilt Legends Club 1500 Legends Club Lane, Franklin 791-8100, www.legendsclub.com This 36-hole course features a 19-acre

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Metropolitan Golf Courses Harpeth Hills Golf Course 2424 Old Hickory Blvd. 862-8493 18 holes; par 72 McCabe Golf Course 46th Avenue North and Murphy Road 862-8491 27 holes; par 70, par 36

Lake covers an area of 14,400 acres and has 213 miles of shoreline, plus an additional 15,000 acres of land used for recreational purposes. Considered one of the finest largemouth bass lakes in the state of Tennessee, anglers also will enjoy catching crappie, rockfish, bream and catfish. Other activities include camping, swimming, picnicking, boating, canoeing and hiking. Radnor Lake 1160 Otter Creek Road 373-3467, www.radnorlake.org Radnor Lake State Park is south of downtown Nashville in the Oak Hill community. Wildlife and numerous species of plants are found in abundance. This natural area provides

scenic, biological, geological and passive recreational opportunities not typically found in major metropolitan areas. No picnicking or swimming allowed in the park.

Metro Parks 862-8400, www.nashville.gov/parks Metro Parks and Recreation has a wide variety of facilities and programs across Davidson County. Presently, there are 113 parks on more than 10,570 acres, offering something for everyone, including both passive and active recreation. Nashville’s premiere urban park, Centennial Park, was the city’s first wireless park and is also home to the Parthenon.

SPORTS & RECREATION

practice facility, clubhouse, board room, tournament management, club rentals and golf shop. In addition to the outdoor event pavilion, Legends Grille is available for evening functions. Full banquet and catering services. 36 holes; par 71, par 72

Percy Warner Golf Course Forrest Park Drive, off Belle Meade Boulevard 352-9958 9 holes; par 34 Shelby Golf Course South 19th and Fatherland Streets 862-8474 18 holes; par 72 Ted Rhodes Golf Course 1901 Ed Temple Blvd. 862-8463 18 holes; par 72 Two Rivers Golf Course Two Rivers Parkway & McGavock, (near Opryland) 889-2675 18 holes; par 72 Vinny Links Golf Course 2009 Sevier St. 880-1720 9 holes; par 28 Youth Golf Program (open Memorial Day-Labor Day)

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Lake Activities Old Hickory Lake U.S. 31 E., Hendersonville 822-4846 On the Cumberland River just northeast of Nashville, you will find plenty of Southern hospitality at Old Hickory Lake. With more than 22,000 acres of water and 440 miles of shoreline, Old Hickory offers plenty of hiking, fishing, boating, skiing and other lake activities. With no lifeguards on duty, swim at your own risk. No swimming allowed near or from boat launches. Old Hickory Lake was named after President Andrew Jackson. Percy Priest Lake 3737 Bell Road 889-1975 Ten miles east of Nashville, Percy Priest All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

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lodging After a day of sightseeing and touring, you want a comfy place to unwind. Nashville’s many lodging choices offer all the comforts of home, whether you choose a national chain, boutique hotel or bed-and-breakfast. To make it easy to navigate, the listings in this section are arranged alphabetically.

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Live Music Earth Friendly Airport transfer Fitness center Indoor Pool Outdoor Pool Pets accepted Totally smoke free Wireless internet Handicap accessible American Express Carte Blanche Diners Club Discover EnRoute Japanese Credit Bureau MasterCard Visa

Hotels/Motels Airport East Vista Inn & Suites Airport/Elm Hill Pike 5770 Old Hickory Blvd., Hermitage 889-8940, www.vistarez.com/Tennessee/ Hermitage-VTN102-Home.aspx Newly renovated hotel, minutes from Nashville International Airport. Ideally situated near the Grand Ole Opry, Opry Mills, Nashville Zoo at Grassmere and The Hermitage. One-half mile from Nashville Shores, 10 miles from downtown. Enjoy free hot breakfast and in-room amenities (microwave, refrigerator, iron, ironing board, hair dryer). Mexican restaurant on site. Smoking, non-smoking, Jacuzzi and Honeymoon Suite available. Discounts: 120 rooms. Amenities: AARP, AAA, Government, Corporate. Complimentary bus parking. Group rates available. Alexis Inn & Suites Airport/Elm Hill Pike 600 Ermac Drive at Elm Hill Pike Corner 889-4466, www.alexisinn.com Conveniently close to Nashville Airport and Opryland area attractions including the Grand Ole Opry and Opry Mills. Featuring spacious, affordably priced rooms. Enjoy a hot deluxe continental breakfast, newspaper, on-site business services and free parking. 81 rooms, 27 suites. Amenities: Credit Cards: Group contact: info@alexisinn.com. aloft Outside Davidson County 7109 South Springs Drive, Franklin 435-8700, (877) GO-ALOFT, F: 771-3008 www.alofthotels.com/coolsprings Say aloha to aloft, a new twist in travel. As a vision of W hotels, aloft is a bold

143 rooms. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Government, Web. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Complimentary room for driver or escort. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 50 Arté Hotel South/Franklin 760 Old Hickory Blvd., Brentwood 373-2600, www.artehotels.com/ A full-service hotel in the prestigious Brentwood marketplace with the Shoppes of Brentwood adjacent to the property. Lafitte’s New Orleans-style restaurant and Bayou Lounge on site plus many in-room amenities. Only eight miles from downtown Nashville. 244 rooms, 15 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards:

This AAA 3-Diamond hotel near RiverGate Mall is within walking distance of 100 restaurants and lounges. Each room has a 32-inch flat-screen HDTV, “sleep beauty” mattress, oversized granite bath and large work area. Complimentary hot breakfast.

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and carefree brand offering intelligent design, accessible technology, and a social atmosphere of comfort and convenience.

Discounts: 47 suites. Amenities: AARP, AAA, Military, Government. Baymont Inn & Suites – West West Nashville 5612 Lenox Ave. 353-0700, F: 352-0361 www.baymontinns.com Just five miles from downtown Nashville off I-40, Baymont Inn & Suites Nashville/ White Bridge is a great place to stay to see all area attractions – Grand Ole Opry, Parthenon, the Nashville Zoo and the Country Music Hall of Fame®. Shop the Nashville Farmers’ Market or Green Hills and Opry Mills malls. 104 rooms, 6 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Government, Web. Credit Cards:

Group contact: 373-2600. Baymont Inn & Suites – Brentwood South/Franklin 111 Penn Warren Drive, Brentwood 376-4666, (888) 551-4666, F: 370-8844 www.baymontinns.com Newly renovated hotel featuring Serta Pillowtop mattress, ergonomic desk seating, and exceptional guest service. All rooms feature free wireless internet access, in-room coffeemaker, local calls, cable with HBO. Guests enjoy a complimentary Hot Continental Breakfast, seasonal outdoor pool, use of fitness center and Business Station with free printer. Conference Centers and coin-operated laundry available on site. 87 rooms, 7 suites. Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Government, Web. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 5 Group Capacity: 50 Baymont Inn & Suites – Nashville Airport/Briley Airport/Elm Hill Pike 2350 Elm Hill Pike 871-0222, www.baymontinns.com Located near the airport, Opry Mills and Grand Ole Opry. Guaranteed 100% satisfaction. 119 rooms. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Government, Web. Credit Cards: Baymont Inn & Suites – North Nashville North Nashville 809 Wren Road 859-1771, www.baymontinns.com

All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

Best Western Airport Airport/Elm Hill Pike 701 Stewarts Ferry Pike 889-9199, F: 889-9617 www.bestwestern.com/prop/43118 Great rates and Southern hospitality. Mini-fridge, microwave, whirlpool suites available. Complimentary continental breakfast and free parking. Near attractions and the Cracker Barrel restaurant. 70 rooms, 7 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Corporate. Credit Cards: Group rates available. Best Western Downtown Convention Center Downtown 711 Union St. 242-4311, (800) 627-3297 www.bestwestern.com Located at the Tennessee State Capitol in the heart of downtown within walking distance to the Convention Center, Sommet Center, Honky Tonk district, many restaurants and entertainment venues, and one mile to LP Field. Enjoy on-site continental breakfast and convenience store with deli. 100 rooms, 1 suite. Amenities: Credit Cards: Best Western Suites Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 201 Music City Circle 902-9940, (888) 994-9940, F: 902-9950 www.bestwestern.com/prop/43134 Conveniently near the Grand Ole Opry, Opry Mills and the Gaylord Opryland®

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Clean, comfortable rooms. Located next to Sante Fe Steakhouse and just minutes from the Grand Ole Opry and General Jackson Showboat. 121 rooms. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Government. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 10 Comfort Suites Airport Airport/Elm Hill Pike 2521 Elm Hill Pike 391-3919, F: 391-5995 www.comfortsuite.com/hotel/tn363 Enjoy all-suite accommodations with a free, hot breakfast buffet and many in-room amenities including refrigerator, microwave, coffeemaker and sofa bed. On-site laundry facility, free parking, meeting room and whirlpool suites available. 94 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards: Comfort Inn West West Nashville 412 White Bridge Place 356-0888, (888) 443-8357 www.comfortinn.com

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Resort, the hotel offers guests a deluxe continental breakfast, microwave, coffee pot, refrigerator, iron and board, on-site laundry and free parking. 100 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Group rates available. Clubhouse Inn & Suites – Airport/Opryland Airport/Elm Hill Pike 2435 Atrium Way 883-0500, F: 889-4827 www.clubhousenashville.com Conveniently near the Grand Old Opry, Nashville Int’l Airport, Opry Mills and other area attractions. Free hot buffet breakfast and manager’s reception (5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Mon.-Sat.). High-speed internet, airport shuttle, fitness center, indoor whirlpool, outdoor pool. 133 rooms, 17 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Government, Web. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 10

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Comfort Inn & Suites South/Franklin 5566 Franklin Pike Circle, Brentwood 221-5001 www.choicehotels.com/ires/hotel/tn373 Off I-65 in the Cool Springs/Franklin area and just minutes from downtown Nashville. Hotel offers complimentary deluxe continental breakfast, newspaper, free parking and in-room amenities. Stores and restaurants within walking distance. 110 rooms, 47 suites. Amenities: Credit Cards: Comfort Inn Music City North Nashville 2407 Brick Church Pike 226-3300 Guests enjoy the “Comfort Sunshine Breakfast� and in-room amenities including hair dryers, coffee and ironing. 118 rooms, 5 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards: Comfort Inn Opryland Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2516 Music Valley Drive 889-0086, F: 889-0086 www.comfortinnopryland.com

Conveniently located to all attractions in the Nashville area and several malls and theaters as well. Some of the many hotel amenities include business services, welcome reception, free parking and continental breakfast, as well as a coffeemaker, hair dryer, iron and board, micro-fridge, daily newspaper and data port within the rooms. 65 rooms, 5 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Trucker. Credit Cards: Country Inn & Suites East Nashville 3423 Percy Priest Drive 277-1099, (800) 456-4000 www.countryinns.com/hotels/tnnasair Enjoy a range of business services, free parking, continental breakfast, newspaper, and in-room amenities including coffeemaker and iron. 30 rooms, 33 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards: Country Inn & Suites – Airport Airport/Elm Hill Pike 590 Donelson Pike 874-8040 Enjoy the convenience of an on-site business center plus continental breakfast, free parking, newspaper and in-room amenities including coffeemaker and iron. 95 rooms. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards:

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Nashville’s newest Country Inn and Suites by Carlson. All amenities: hot breakfast, indoor heated pool and hot tub, airport shuttle, two-room jacuzzi suites and meeting and banquet space. 100 rooms, 40 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Government, Web. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Complimentary room for driver or escort. Group Requirement: 20

Countryside Lodge Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2500 Music Valley Dr. 316-0145 countrysidelodge-nashvilletn.com Our hotel, conveniently located next to the Grand Ole Opry, has competitive pricing and quality services. Discounts: AARP, Military, Corporate. Courtyard by Marriott – Brentwood Outside Davidson County 103 East Park Drive, Brentwood 371-9200, www.brentwoodcourtyard.com Located in the Maryland Farms office complex with easy access to many restaurants. A full business center and 24-hour deli and market are located on site. 145 rooms. Amenities:

Courtyard by Marriott – Nashville Airport Airport/Elm Hill Pike 2508 Elm Hill Pike 883-9500, (800) 321-2211 www.marriott.com/bnaca

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Country Inn & Suites – Hickory Hollow Antioch/Hickory Hollow 1001 Bell Road, Antioch 731-8540 www.countryinns.com/nashvilletn_south

Spacious guest rooms feature separate living area with refrigerator, microwave, mini-bar, sofa bed and additional television plus upgraded bedding packages and other in-room amenities. Courtyard Cafe is open daily for breakfast plus room service from outside vendors. Lounge on site. 145 rooms, 11 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AAA. Credit Cards:

A Colorful Past History really comes alive in Nashville. President Andrew Jackson might have been known as “Old Hickory,” but he clearly had a softer side, too. His tender inscription on his wife’s gravestone at The Hermitage provides just one insight into this multifaceted man. The antics of Adelicia Acklen, mistress of Belmont Mansion, are well documented. This original “Steel Magnolia” is widely rumored to have been the inspiration for the fictional Scarlett O’Hara. Any belle worth her salt knows diamonds are a girl’s best friend, which explains why Selene Harding tested her large engagement ring by scratching her name into the windowpane of her father’s office at Belle Meade Plantation. Nashville’s reputation as a gracious place to visit traces its roots to Travellers Rest Plantation & Museum, where peach brandy and politicians were always welcome. More than just beautiful bricks and mortar, the city’s lovely plantations and historic homes tell the story of a bygone era filled with colorful characters.

All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

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Courtyard by Marriott – Near Opryland Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 125 Music City Circle 882-9133, www.marriott.com/ hotels/travel/bnaco-courtyardnashville-at-opryland/

Stay at this beautiful, limited-service property with full-service amenities including a restaurant, room service and complimentary local shuttle. Large enough to take care of your business needs, yet small enough to know you by name.

Enjoy many in-room amenities plus free parking, newspaper and on-site restaurant.

213 rooms, 13 suites. Amenities: Credit Cards: Days Inn Opryland Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2460 Music Valley Dr. 889-0090, F: 889-0090 www.daysinnopryland.com

94 rooms, 7 suites. Amenities: Credit Cards: Courtyard by Marriott Vanderbilt – West End West End/Vanderbilt 1901 West End Ave. 327-9900, (800) 321-2211 www.courtyard.com/bnawe

Clean, Comfortable Rooms. Located withing walking distance of multiple restaurants and just minutes from the Grand Ole Opry and General Jackson Showboat.

86 rooms. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Government. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 10 Days Inn Stadium Downtown 211 N. First St. 254-1551, (800) 251-3038 www.daysinnnashville.com Conveniently located with many in-room amenities. On-site lounge and restaurant. 180 rooms. Amenities: Credit Cards: Doubletree Guest Suites – Nashville Airport Airport/Elm Hill Pike 2424 Atrium Way 889-8889, (800) 222-8733 www.doubletree.com/en/dt/hotels/ index.jhtml?ctyhocn=BNAEBDT This recently renovated property features comfortable conversation areas for socializing, games and more. Convenient to Gaylord Opryland® Resort and downtown. Features on-site restaurant, lounge, business services and free parking plus many in-room amenities including coffeemaker, room service and newspaper. 138 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards: Doubletree Hotel Nashville Downtown Downtown 315 Fourth Ave. N. 244-8200 www.nashvilledoubletree.com

47347

Enjoy breakfast or lunch in our Plaza Café or our outdoor covered patio Swank’s Martini & Wine Bar featuring live music nightly, The Meritage Grille for steaks and seafood, Starbucks, gift shop, business center, indoor heated pool, and fitness center. 331 rooms, 6 suites. Amenities: Credit Cards: Advertising Partner, this page Drury Inn & Suites Airport Airport/Elm Hill Pike 555 Donelson Pike 902-0400, (800) 439-1169 www.druryhotels.com/properties/ nashvilleairport.cfm When ready to relax, join us for free evening beverages and snacks. Enjoy one hour of free long distance. Stay connected with free high-speed Internet access in all rooms and wireless Internet in the lobby. Wake up to coffee and a free breakfast. 155 rooms. Amenities:

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Econo Lodge Nashville North Nashville 1412 Brick Church Pike 226-3230, www.choicehotels.com The Econo Lodge Nashville features spacious rooms, easy interstate access and The Broken Spoke Saloon with Songwriter’s CafÊ plus a continental breakfast and free parking. 122 rooms. Amenities: Credit Cards: Embassy Suites Nashville Airport Airport/Elm Hill Pike 10 Century Blvd. 871-0033, (800) EMBASSY www.nashvilleairport.embassysuites.com The Embassy Suites Nashville Airport is a luxurious two-room suite hotel that offers full, cooked-to-order breakfast and nightly manager’s reception. Other services include on-site lounge and restaurant, room service, free parking and in-room amenities. 396 suites. Amenities: Credit Cards: Embassy Suites Nashville at Vanderbilt West End/Vanderbilt 1811 Broadway 320-8899, F: 320-8881 www.nashvilleatvanderbilt. embsuites.com The Embassy Suites Vanderbilt is a beautiful hotel featuring an 11-story atrium with 208 spacious, two-room suites. All rates include a complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast each day and a complimentary evening Manager’s Reception. Conveniently located in the West End/Music Row area of Nashville along with free shuttle service within two miles of the hotel. 208 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Government, Web. Credit Cards: Group rates available. Group Requirement: 10 Embassy Suites Nashville South Outside Davidson County 820 Crescent Centre Drive, Franklin 515-5151, (800) EMBASSY, F: 515-5152 www.embassysuitesnashvillesouth.com Award-winning, all-suites hotel featuring a cooked-to-order breakfast buffet and manager’s reception. Convenient interstate access with numerous shopping, dining and historical sites within minutes of the hotel. Golf and other outdoor activities also nearby. Free parking, game room. 250 suites. Amenities: AAA. Credit Cards:

Discounts:

Fairfield Inn – Opryland Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 211 Music City Circle 872-8939, (800) 228-2800 www.marriott.com/bnaop

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One mile from the Grand Ole Opry, Gaylord OprylandÂŽ Resort, General Jackson Showboat and Opry Mills with upscale outlet shops. Shuttle service to the airport and Gaylord OprylandÂŽ Resort (minimal fee). Close to golf courses, great restaurants and nightlife.

Clean, comfortable rooms. Next to Cracker Barrel Restaurant and minutes from the Grand Ole Opry, General Jackson Showboat and Opry Mills.

109 rooms. Amenities: Credit Cards:

Complimentary bus parking. Group rates available.

Fairfield Inn Nashville – Airport Airport/Elm Hill Pike 911 Airport Center Drive 872-0109, (800) 228-2800 www.marriott.com

Gaylord OprylandÂŽ Resort & Convention Center Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2800 Opryland Drive 458-2824, www.gaylordopryland.com

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast, free parking, and executive rooms with a microwave and refrigerator.

Combining unsurpassed meeting, convention, and exhibition space with exceptional service, innovative regional dining options, unique shopping, golf facilities and on-site entertainment venues, Gaylord Opryland is recognized around the world for its extraordinary service, luxurious accommodations and world-class entertainment. Within the resort, cruise down the Delta River; experience Aqua - beautiful dancing waters set to an array of music and

93 suites. Amenities: Credit Cards: Group contact: (888) 583-2727. Fiddlers Inn Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2410 Music Valley Drive 885-1440, F: 883-6477 www.fiddlers-inn.com

All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

202 rooms. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Government, Web. Credit Cards:

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Boutique limited-service hotel located within walking distance of a major shopping mall and restaurants. 71 rooms, 26 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 10 Hampton Inn & Suites – Nashville Downtown Downtown 310 Fourth Ave. S. 277-5000, (800) 426-7866 www.hamptondowntown.nashville.com Nashville’s newest downtown hotel and a recipient of the Best Constructed Hotel Award. Walk to honky tonks, Sommet Center, Country Music Hall of FameŽ, Schermerhorn Symphony Center, Titans stadium, Riverfront and fine dining. Beautiful landscape, huge lobby with live plants and waterfall, meeting rooms, board room, free parking, complimentary hot breakfast, free newspaper, microwaves and refrigerators in all rooms, LCD HDTVs, and outstanding service. Business center and suite shop also available. 154 rooms, 39 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Government. Credit Cards: Hampton Inn & Suites – Nashville Smyrna Outside Davidson County 2573 Highwood Blvd., Smyrna 355-8432, (800) 486-7866 www.hamptoninn.com

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lights; dance the night away to live music in the lounges and so much more. 2,881 rooms, 174 suites. Amenities: Advertising Partner, inside back cover GuestHouse Inn & Suites West End/Vanderbilt 1909 Hayes St. 329-1000, (800) 777-4904, F: 329-4890 www.nashvilleguesthouseinn.com One of Nashville’s most charming small hotels, located in the fashionable midtown area near Vanderbilt University and West End Avenue just 1.25 miles from the center of downtown Nashville. Start the day with a complimentary breakfast including made-to-order waffles. 102 rooms, 6 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards:

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48 Nashville Group Travel Planner

Guesthouse International Inn & Suites Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2420 Music Valley Drive 885-4030, (800) 214-8378, F: 885-4347 www.guesthouseintl.com Located in the heart of Music Valley. Several great restaurants and attractions within walking distance. Complimentary shuttle to the Airport and Gaylord OprylandŽ Hotel. 184 rooms, 13 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Government, Web. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 10 Hampton Inn & Suites – Green Hills Green Hills 2324 Crestmoor Road 777-0001, F: 986-5200 www.hamptoninn.com/hi/nash-greenhills

This beautiful, new property offers a hot breakfast, on-site convenience store, room service delivery by Ruby Tuesday’s, and many in-room amenities including laptop desks with Internet, newspaper and more. Conveniently located within walking distance to restaurants and 15 miles from downtown. 83 rooms, 20 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AAA. Credit Cards: Hampton Inn & Suites – Vanderbilt Elliston Place West End/Vanderbilt 2330 Elliston Place 320-6060, (888) 880-5395 www.hamptoninnnashville.com Along with traditional guest rooms, the hotel offers a new concept in lodging by providing spacious residential-style suites. Recently awarded the “Circle of Excellence Award� by Hilton Hotels. Continental breakfast, Cloud Nine beds, free parking and in-room amenities. 157 rooms, 35 suites. Amenities: Credit Cards:

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Enjoy all the fun, adventure, and history that Nashville has to offer, but from the tranquil setting of nearby Antioch. The Hampton Inn® hotel in Nashville-I-24 Hickory Hollow is located just minutes from the major attractions in Nashville, also offering convenient access to the Nashville International Airport. 87 rooms. Amenities: Hampton Inn – Brentwood Outside Davidson County 5630 Franklin Pike Circle, Brentwood 373-2212, F: 370-9832 www.hamptoninnbrentwood.com The Hampton Inn Brentwood is a beautifully appointed hotel with newly refurbished rooms and public space. 10 minutes from downtown. Free parking on site, and in-room amenities, including coffeemaker. 112 rooms. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Government, Web. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Group rates available. Hampton Inn – Vanderbilt West End/Vanderbilt 1919 West End Ave. 329-1144, (888) 880-5395 www.hamptoninnnashville.com Convenient accommodations located one block from Vanderbilt University and Medical Center and close to Belmont, Tennessee State and Fisk universities, Meharry Medical College, major corporations, country music’s leading recording studios, downtown Nashville, Titans football and the Nashville Predators hockey arena.

171 rooms, 1 suite. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards:

customer service. Guests enjoy our fivehole golf putting green, restaurant, lounge and in-room amenities.

Group contact: 620-4854.

112 rooms, 2 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AAA. Credit Cards:

The Hermitage Hotel Downtown 231 Sixth Ave. N. 244-3121, (888) 888-9414 www.thehermitagehotel.com The elegant Hermitage Hotel is one of only 37 hotels in North America with the prestigious Mobil Travel Guide 5-Star rating. It also holds a AAA 5-Diamond rating and has an outstanding restaurant. 119 rooms, 4 suites. Amenities: Credit Cards: Hilton Garden Inn – Nashville Airport Airport/Elm Hill Pike 412 Royal Pkwy. 884-0088 www.nashvilleairport.stayhgi.com

Hilton Nashville Downtown Downtown 121 Fourth Ave. S. 620-1000, F: 620-2050 www.nashvillehilton.com Enjoy this AAA 4-Diamond, all-suite luxury hotel in the center of downtown and adjacent to the Country Music Hall of Fame®, Schermerhorn Symphony Center and Sommet Center. Expansive atrium lobby, mahogany grand staircase, spacious accommodations, flexible meeting space and more. 330 suites. Amenities: AAA. Credit Cards:

Discounts:

Complimentary bus parking. Group rates available.

Conveniently located just outside of the airport and eight miles from downtown. Rooms feature king or two double beds, chair with ottoman, large work desk, two phones (with two lines), refrigerator, microwave, coffeemaker and much more. Restaurant and lounge on site.

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110 rooms. Amenities: Credit Cards:

Nestled in the hills of beautiful Williamson County, only eight miles from downtown Nashville, the Hilton Suites is the only full-service all-suite hotel in Brentwood. Amenities include complimentary wireless Internet throughout the hotel, valet laundry, indoor pool and whirlpool, fully equipped fitness center, state of the art business center and a complimentary shuttle within five miles of the hotel.

Hilton Garden Inn – Nashville/Smyrna Outside Davidson County 2631 Highwood Blvd., Smyrna 355-6262 www.nashvillesmyrna.stayhgi.com Sixteen miles from downtown Nashville, this new hotel has everything you could need in an upscale, full-service hotel with banquet/meeting space for 250 plus professional catering and great

LODGING

Hampton Inn – Hickory Hollow Antioch/Hickory Hollow 210 Crossings Place 731-9911, www.hamptoninn.com

Hilton Suites Brentwood South/Franklin 9000 Overlook Blvd., Brentwood 370-0111, (800) HILTONS, F: 370-0272 www.brentwood.hilton.com

203 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Government, Web.

47254

All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

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Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 10 Holiday Inn – The Crossings Antioch/Hickory Hollow 201 Crossings Place 731-2361 www.holidayinn.com/bna-crossings The Holiday Inn - The Crossings Antioch-Nashville is a full-service Holiday Inn located conveniently off I-24, exit 60, Hickory Hollow Parkway. Hotel is 1/2 mile from Hickory Hollow Mall, 10 miles from downtown area, and 15 miles from the Opryland area. Additionally, we are located 7 miles from Nashville International Airport with a complimentary airport shuttle available from 5:00 AM until midnight daily. Restaurant and lounge in hotel with room service available. Amenities: Holiday Inn Express Downtown 920 Broadway 244-0150 Newly renovated hotel, ideally situated for all attractions, Music Row and Nashville’s nightlife. Enjoy a continental breakfast and many in-room amenities. The hotel also features 5,000 square feet of meeting space. 287 rooms. Amenities: Credit Cards: Advertising Partner, p. 49 Holiday Inn Express Nashville Airport Airport/Elm Hill Pike 1111 Airport Center Drive 883-1366, (800) HOLIDAY www.hiexpress.com Conveniently located off I-40 near the

airport. Enjoy the large glass atrium with fireplace and many other amenities. Complimentary local shuttle service available within a two-mile radius of the hotel, free parking and daily continental breakfast.

Credit Cards:

206 rooms. Amenities: Credit Cards:

Homewood Suites Airport Airport/Elm Hill Pike 2640 Elm Hill Pike 884-8111, (800) 491-6864, F: 884-0011 www.homewoodsuites1.hilton.com

Holiday Inn Select Airport/Elm Hill Pike 2200 Elm Hill Pike 883-9770, (800) 633-4427, F: 391-4265 www.hinashville.com Located just minutes from the Nashville International Airport and downtown, the Holiday Inn Select Nashville - Airport is perfect for your next event or visit. Featuring well-appointed guest rooms for business or leisure, plus an on-site restaurant, lounge and meeting space. 383 rooms. Amenities: Credit Cards: Group contact: 316-1041. Complimentary bus parking. Group rates available. Holiday Inn Select Vanderbilt West End/Vanderbilt 2613 West End Ave. 327-4707, (888) HOLIDAY, F: 320-4850 www.hiselect.com The newly renovated Holiday Inn Select features an on-site restaurant and lounge. The hotel is near Vanderbilt University and minutes from great shopping, restaurants, the Parthenon, downtown and Music Row. All rooms feature microwaves, refrigerators and private balconies. 297 rooms, 2 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Government, Web.

Complimentary bus parking. Group rates available. Advertising Partner, this page

This upscale property caters to the extended-stay guest, as well as the business traveler. Located 1 1/2 miles from the Nashville International Airport, firmly in the heart of major corporate office complexes. Complimentary beverage area, complimentary breakfast, coin laundry, gift shop, laundry/valet service, newsstand, on-site convenience store. 121 rooms, 16 suites. Amenities: Homewood Suites Nashville Downtown Downtown 706 Church St. 742-5550, (800) CALL-HOME F: 742-9949 www.nashvilledowntown. homewoodsuites.com In the heart of downtown, we offer extensive suites with full kitchens, daily complimentary hot breakfast and an evening reception Monday through Thursday. Make yourself at home with our spa, 24-hour convenience store and on-site business center. 113 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards: Group rates available.

46605

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50 Nashville Group Travel Planner

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Hotel Indigo West End/Vanderbilt 1719 West End Ave. (866) 2-INDIGO, www.hotelindigo.com The new Hotel Indigo delivers peace and renewal to Music City featuring invigorating guest rooms boasting as much as 760 square feet with an art gallery-style entrance. Retail-inspired design concept, on-site coffee house, plush bedding and much more. 140 rooms, 1 suite. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards: Hotel Indigo Downtown Downtown 301 Union St. 329-4200, www.hotelindigo.com Set to open in summer 2009, Hotel Indigo will deliver peace and renewal to Music City. The $30 million hotel project across from Regions Center will boast a 1,800-square-foot penthouse, fitness center, 3,000 square feet of meeting space and 18 extended-stay residences. In addition, there will be a coffee shop and Phi Restaurant and Lounge. 96 rooms, 18 suites. Amenities: Hotel Preston Airport/Elm Hill Pike 733 Briley Pkwy. 361-5900, (877) 361-5500 www.hotelpreston.com This hip, happening hotel offers a new attitude in Nashville hospitality. Featuring luxurious boutique-style accommodations, plush bedding, Starbucks Coffee, Tazo Tea and unique amenities including lava lamps, a bedtime story, artist-in-training kits and more. On-site restaurant, lounge and room service. 196 rooms, 4 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards: Hutton Hotel West End/Vanderbilt 1808 West End Ave. 340-9333, F: 340-0010 www.huttonhotel.com Hutton Hotel is Nashville’s newest independent luxury hotel, opened in December 2008 with 248 rooms and 13,600 square feet of meeting space. A unique property providing a wide range of amenities and services specifically created for the Hutton guest.

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Hyatt Place Opryland Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 220 Rudy’s Circle 872-0422, www.nashvilleopryland.place. hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/place/index.jsp Hyatt Place is a new kind of hotel that puts style, innovation and The Hyatt TouchŽ within everyone’s reach. Our guests will enjoy a spacious guestroom with a 42� flat panel high-definition television, our signature Hyatt Grand Bed™, a plush Cozy Corner oversized sofa sleeper that is separated from the sleeping area, and complimentary highspeed Wi-Fi Internet access throughout the hotel. Amenities:

248 rooms. Amenities: Discounts: AAA, Government, Web. Credit Cards:

La Quinta Inn Nashville South South/Franklin 4311 Sidco Drive 834-6900, (800) 531-5900 www.lq.com

Group rates available. Group Requirement: 25

The La Quinta Inn is located three miles from Music Row, the Ryman Auditorium,

All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

the Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville Arena, and LP Field in downtown Nashville. It is also a mile away from the Tennessee State Fairgrounds and the Nashville Zoo. Some of the many hotel amenities include business services, free parking and continental breakfast, as well as a coffeemaker, hair dryer, iron and board and data port within the rooms. 130 rooms, 2 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards:

Loews Vanderbilt Hotel West End/Vanderbilt 2100 West End Ave. 320-1700, www.loewshotel.com/en/ Hotels/Vanderbilt-Hotel/Overview.aspx Luxury hits a high note in Tennessee’s only AAA 4-Diamond hotel for 20 consecutive years. Loews delivers a true Music City experience from the lobby jukebox playing songs of celebrity guests to museum displays

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by the Country Music Hall of Fame ÂŽ and Museum.

Complimentary bus parking. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 20

340 rooms, 14 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards:

Nashville Airport Marriott Airport/Elm Hill Pike 600 Marriott Drive 889-9300, F: 871-9167 www.marriott.com

Mainstay Suites Brentwood South/Franklin 107 Brentwood Blvd., Brentwood 371-8477, www.mainstaysuites.com/ hotel-brentwood-tennessee-TN069 Only eight miles from downtown Nashville and historic Franklin. Our suites have full kitchens. We offer free breakfast, evening social and wireless internet. Catering to both corporate and leisure guest. Rates negotiable depending on length of stay. Millennium Maxwell House Hotel – Nashville Downtown 2025 Rosa L. Parks Blvd. 259-4343, (866) 866-8060, F: 242-4967 www.millenniumhotels.com/ millenniumnashville Music-themed hotel, free parking, complimentary airport transportation, free transportation within five mile radius of hotel. Outdoor pool and pavillion area for outdoor events. 298 rooms, 4 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Government, Web. Credit Cards:

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52 Nashville Group Travel Planner

Conveniently located between downtown Nashville and the Nashville International Airport, we easily adapt to your travel plans. Complimentary airport transportation, valet parking, car rental services available, full-service business center, Starbucks/retail Store, 2 Rivers Grille and Albert’s Lounge. 392 rooms, 6 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Government, Web. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Group rates available. Nashville Downtown Courtyard Downtown 170 Fourth Ave. N. 256-0900, (800) 321-2211 www.nashvilledowntowncourtyard.com A stunning, century-old high-rise set in the heart of the historic district is the backdrop for this hotel filled with modern amenities including an on-site restaurant and lounge. Complimentary HSIA. 192 rooms. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards:

Marriott Nashville at Vanderbilt University West End/Vanderbilt 2555 West End Ave. 321-1300, F: 340-5142 www.marriott.com/property/ propertypage/bnaav Adjacent to Centennial Park and the Parthenon, the hotel is located on the historic Vanderbilt University campus in Nashville’s beautiful West End with its outstanding dining and shopping. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms. 301 rooms, 6 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AAA. Credit Cards: Quality Inn & Suites North Nashville 2401 Brick Church Pike 226-4600 This recently renovated hotel has all the extras and is great for corporate, motorcoach, convention and leisure guests. Continental breakfast, free parking, microfridge and newspaper offered. 150 rooms. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards: Radisson Hotel at Opryland Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2401 Music Valley Drive 889-0800, (800) 333-3333 www.radisson.com/nashvilletn

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303 rooms, 2 suites. Amenities: Credit Cards: Radisson Hotel Nashville Airport Airport/Elm Hill Pike 1112 Airport Center Drive 889-9090 www.radisson.com/nashvilletn_airport Upscale hotel located one mile from Nashville International Airport and convenient to downtown, the Grand Ole Opry and Country Music Hall of Fame ÂŽ and Museum. Guests experience warm hospitality, an inviting atmosphere and top-notch services sure to please business and leisure travelers alike.

Residence Inn – Nashville Airport Airport/Elm Hill Pike 2300 Elm Hill Pike 889-8600, (800) 331-3131 www.marriott.com/bnabn

Located off I-24 (exit 66 from I-24W and 66B from I-24E). Go east on Sam Ridley Parkway, past four traffic lights and exit onto Highway 41/70, then turn left. Turn left again at first light.

The perfect choice for an extended stay or short visit. The hotel is five minutes from Gaylord Opryland Ž Resort and Convention Center and 10 minutes from downtown. Suites feature full kitchens and living areas. “HomeTouch� breakfast buffet, weekday manager’s reception, free parking and on-site laundry.

80 rooms, 6 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Government, Web. Credit Cards:

LODGING

Only nine miles from the airport and adjacent to the Gaylord OprylandÂŽ Resort and Convention Center (with free shuttle service), the hotel features a restaurant, lounge, on-site concierge, Hertz car rental, sauna, free parking and in-room amenities including a coffeemaker.

Complimentary bus parking. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 10

126 rooms, 42 suites. Amenities: Credit Cards:

Scarritt-Bennett Center West End/Vanderbilt 1008 19th Ave. S. 340-7500, www.scarrittbennett.org

Rodeway Inn & Suites – Smyrna Outside Davidson County 1300 Plaza Drive, Smyrna 355-6161, F: 355-6556 www.rodewayinn.com

A unique, convenient and affordable alternative to standard hotels. On 10 beautiful acres in the heart of Nashville, the Gothic-style buildings and grounds offer a peaceful environment. Walking

180 rooms, 24 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards: Group rates available. Ramada Downtown @ The Stadium Downtown 303 Interstate Drive, I-24 between Exits 48 & 49 244-6690, (800) 251-1856 www.ramadainnstadium.com Enjoy our world-famous, guitar-shaped indoor pool and convenient location next to LP Field with 100 restaurants and clubs within one mile, three within one block. Complimentary breakfast and business center on site. 115 rooms, 5 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AAA, Government. Credit Cards: Ramada Inn & Suites Opryland – Airport Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2425 Atrium Way 883-5201, www.ramada.com A moderately-priced hotel with a full kitchen in 60% of the rooms and refrigerator and microwave in every room. Some rooms can sleep six. 120 suites. Renaissance Nashville Hotel Downtown 611 Commerce St. 255-8400, (800) 327-6618 www.renaissancenashville.com AAA 4-Diamond hotel in the center of downtown. Experience a musically themed expressive destination, delightful luxuries and savvy service. Business services, restaurant, lounge, room service and many in-room amenities. 673 rooms, 24 suites. Amenities: Credit Cards:

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All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

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Hotel with meeting space and breakfast. Convenient location to major attractions, stadiums/auditoriums and universities. Cable TV, air conditioning, bus parking and free continental breakfast. Amenities: Sleep Inn – Airport Airport/Elm Hill Pike 3437 Percy Priest Drive 882-9220, (877) 822-9820, F: 882-9251 www.nashvillesleepinn.com Airport Sleep Inn is on I-40 Exit 219, just 9 miles east of downtown and 3 miles away from the airport. Our guests enjoy a free Morning Medley Breakfast every morning. as well as a free airport transfer. 59 rooms. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Government, Web. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Drivers lounge. Complimentary room for driver or escort. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 120 SpringHill Suites by Marriott – MetroCenter Downtown 250 Athens Way 244-5474, (888) 287-9400 www.marriott.com/bnasm Enjoy our convenient location on the outskirts of downtown. Hotel offers free parking and continental breakfast. 78 suites. Amenities: AAA. Credit Cards:

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distance to Music Row, Vanderbilt and Hillsboro Village. Free parking. 134 rooms, 5 suites. Amenities: Credit Cards: Sheraton Music City Hotel Airport/Elm Hill Pike 777 McGavock Pike 885-2200, (800) 325-3535, F: 231-1120 www.sheraton.com/musiccity Enjoy an authentic Southern experience at this elegant plantation-style hotel nestled atop 23 beautiful acres and just minutes from downtown and the airport. Each oversized guest room has a private balcony or patio. Restaurant, lounge, room service, free parking and spa services. 410 rooms, 56 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards:

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54 Nashville Group Travel Planner

Sheraton Nashville Downtown Hotel Downtown 623 Union St. 259-2000, (800) 325-2525, F: 742-6057 www.sheraton.com/nashvilledowntown Each of our 474 elegantly appointed rooms, including nine executive suites, provides a panoramic view of the Nashville skyline and scenic countryside beyond. As an added convenience, our entire hotel is non-smoking, while specified concierge floors offer you upgraded amenities. 474 rooms, 9 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Military, Government, Web. Credit Cards: Sleep Inn North Nashville 3200 Dickerson Pike 227-8686

Discounts:

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Nashville Airport Airport/Elm Hill Pike 1100 Airport Center Drive 884-6111, (888) 287-9400 www.marriott.com/bnasa SpringHill Suites offers so much more. Each suite is up to 25 percent larger than comparably priced hotels. In-room amenities include coffeemaker, microwave and refrigerator and complimentary “Suite Seasons� breakfast. Free parking. 150 suites. Amenities: Credit Cards: Super 8 Airport Airport/Elm Hill Pike 720 Royal Pkwy. 889-8887, F: 885-7000 www.super8.com Conveniently located near the airport and interstate. Featuring a 24-hour airport shuttle, complimentary breakfast buffet and other amenities. Renovated at the end of summer 2007. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards:

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Complimentary bus parking. Group rates available.

Conveniently located near many of Nashville’s finest attractions, restaurants, colleges and malls. This hotel appeals to families and is equipped for business travelers with flexible workspace. Enjoy free continental breakfast daily and a rate that will fit your travel budget. Free parking, meeting/banquet facilities, no-smoking rooms/facilities and television with cable.

Wingate Inn Airport/Elm Hill Pike 800 Royal Pkwy. 884-9777

The Big Bungalow Bed & Breakfast East Nashville 618 Fatherland St. 256-8375, www.thebigbungalow.com

Conveniently located near the airport and featuring free parking, continental breakfast and in-room amenities including coffeemaker, microwave and refrigerator.

This is what Nashville’s about. Stay where it’s all happening ... close to all major attractions including downtown restaurants and nightlife and LP Field.

108 rooms. Amenities: Union Station – A Wyndham Historic Hotel Downtown 1001 Broadway 726-1001 www.unionstationhotelnashville.com Discover a century of charm as the Union Station has returned to its original elegance and grandeur with a $10-million renovation. Marvel at the 65-foot original stained-glass, barrelvaulted ceiling and Romanesque architecture while relaxing in one of the luxurious rooms. 125 rooms, 11 suites. Amenities: Discounts: AAA. Credit Cards:

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101 rooms. Amenities: Credit Cards: Wyndham Nashville Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2415 McGavock Pike 871-4666, (866) 465-5743, F: (407) 345-6400 www.extraholidays.com/eh/resorts/ Wyndham_Nashville/index.go Enjoy your next vacation in a spacious condominium at Wyndham Nashville! Your accommodations put you close to many of the city’s most visited areas and are all “just up the road a piece!” 18 rooms. Amenities: Discounts: AARP, AAA, Web. Credit Cards: Group rates available.

Bed & Breakfasts

LODGING

Thrifty Inn Antioch/Hickory Hollow 343 Harding Place 834-4242, (800) 439-1169

Daisy Hill Bed & Breakfast West End/Vanderbilt 2816 Blair Blvd. 297-9795 www.daisyhillbedandbreakfast.com Elegant accommodations in the heart of Music City. Convenient to West End, downtown, medical facilities and universities. Mulberry House Green Hills 1100 Clifton Lane 473-8437 www.mulberryhousenashville.com Private, upscale guest cottage with 1,000 square feet, spacious great room, bedroom, gourmet kitchen, bath and fenced courtyard for a secluded feeling without sacrificing convenience.

47251

All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

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Contemporary sensibility with original art, bamboo floors and oriental carpets. Concierge services. Amenities:

Credit Cards:

Camping A Cowboy Town and Meadowlark Lodge North Nashville 3665 Knight Drive, Whites Creek Weekdays: 242-6201, Weekends: 876-1029 www.acowboytown.com Bathrooms are a five-minute walk from campsites. Free parking. Go back in time at this 116-acre event complex just 10 minutes from downtown and experience all the fun of the Old West. Enjoy horseback riding, canoeing, primitive camping, hiking, fishing, stagecoach rides, campfires, singing, gunfights and Wild West Show with campfire supper. Credit Cards: Nashville KOA Kampground Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2626 Music Valley Drive 889-0282, (800) KOA-7789 www.nashvillekoa.com Nashville KOA lies in the heart of Music Valley, two miles from the Grand Ole Opry and 10 miles from downtown Nashville, in a spacious country setting ready for family fun. Dump station, ice, LP gas, laundry, pull-through sites, RV supplies, recreational facilities, showers, sightseeing tours, sites with no hookups, sites with water and electricity (and some including sewer), store, and swimming pool. BVS 4`Wab 1S\bS` T]` bVS DWacOZ /`ba VOa O eWRS dO`WSbg ]T b`OdSZW\U SfVWPWba

Amenities:

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56 Nashville Group Travel Planner

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These Nashville-area accommodations have been arranged by area of town. You can refer to the maps on pages 86-88 for more information.

Airport/Elm Hill Pike Airport East Vista Inn & Suites . . . . . 43 Alexis Inn & Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Baymont Inn & Suites – Nashville Airport/Briley . . . . . . . . . . 43 Best Western Airport . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Clubhouse Inn & Suites – Airport/Opryland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Comfort Suites Airport . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Country Inn & Suites – Airport . . . . . 44 Courtyard by Marriott – Nashville Airport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Doubletree Guest Suites – Nashville Airport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Drury Inn & Suites Airport . . . . . . . . 46 Embassy Suites Nashville Airport . . . 46

The Hermitage Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Hyatt Place Opryland . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Hilton Nashville Downtown . . . . . . . 49

Nashville KOA Kampground . . . . . . 56

Holiday Inn Express . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Radisson Hotel at Opryland . . . . . . . 53

Homewood Suites Nashville Downtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Ramada Inn & Suites Opryland – Airport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Hotel Indigo Downtown . . . . . . . . . . 51

Wyndham Nashville . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Millennium Maxwell House Hotel – Nashville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Nashville Downtown Courtyard . . . . 52 Ramada Downtown @ The Stadium . . 53 Renaissance Nashville Hotel . . . . . . . 53 Sheraton Nashville Downtown Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Hilton Garden Inn – Nashville Airport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Holiday Inn Express Nashville Airport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Holiday Inn Select . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Outside Davidson County aloft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Courtyard by Marriott – Brentwood . . 45 Embassy Suites Nashville South . . . . 47

SpringHill Suites by Marriott – MetroCenter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Hampton Inn & Suites – Nashville Smyrna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Union Station – A Wyndham Historic Hotel . . . . . . . . 55

Hampton Inn – Brentwood . . . . . . . . 49

East Nashville

Rodeway Inn & Suites – Smyrna . . . . 53

Fairfield Inn Nashville – Airport . . . . 47 The Big Bungalow Bed & Breakfast . . 55 Country Inn & Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Hilton Garden Inn – Nashville/Smyrna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

South/Franklin Arté Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Homewood Suites Airport . . . . . . . . 50

Green Hills

Hotel Preston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Hampton Inn & Suites – Green Hills . . 48

Comfort Inn & Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Nashville Airport Marriott . . . . . . . . . 52

Mulberry House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Hilton Suites Brentwood . . . . . . . . . . 49

Radisson Hotel Nashville Airport . . . 53 Residence Inn – Nashville Airport . . 53 Sheraton Music City Hotel . . . . . . . . 54 Sleep Inn – Airport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 SpringHill Suites by Marriott Nashville Airport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Super 8 Airport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Wingate Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Antioch/ Hickory Hollow

North Nashville A Cowboy Town and Meadowlark Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Baymont Inn & Suites – North Nashville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Comfort Inn Music City . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Econo Lodge Nashville . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Quality Inn & Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Sleep Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Baymont Inn & Suites – Brentwood . . 43

La Quinta Inn Nashville South . . . . . 52 Mainstay Suites Brentwood . . . . . . . 52

West End/Vanderbilt Courtyard by Marriott Vanderbilt – West End . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Daisy Hill Bed & Breakfast . . . . . . . . 55 Embassy Suites Nashville at Vanderbilt . . . . . . . . . . . 47 GuestHouse Inn & Suites . . . . . . . . . 47

Country Inn & Suites – Hickory Hollow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Opryland Area/ Music Valley Drive

Hampton Inn & Suites – Vanderbilt Elliston Place . . . . . . . . . . 48

Hampton Inn – Hickory Hollow . . . . . 48

Best Western Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Holiday Inn Select Vanderbilt . . . . . . 50

Holiday Inn – The Crossings . . . . . . . 49

Comfort Inn Opryland . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Hotel Indigo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Thrifty Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Countryside Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Hutton Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Courtyard by Marriott – Near Opryland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Loews Vanderbilt Hotel . . . . . . . . . . 51

Downtown Best Western Downtown Convention Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Days Inn Opryland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Fairfield Inn – Opryland . . . . . . . . . . 47

Days Inn Stadium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Fiddlers Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Doubletree Hotel Nashville Downtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Gaylord Opryland® Resort & Convention Center . . . . . . 47

Hampton Inn & Suites – Nashville Downtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Guesthouse International Inn & Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

LODGING

Lodging By Area of Town

Hampton Inn – Vanderbilt . . . . . . . . 49

Marriott Nashville at Vanderbilt University . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Scarritt-Bennett Center . . . . . . . . . . 54

West Nashville Baymont Inn & Suites – West . . . . . . 43 Comfort Inn West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

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Events

Of course, there’s a lot of music on tap in Music City, but you’ll also find art exhibitions, theatrical performances, holiday productions and a whole lot more. For the most up-to-date list, check out www.visitmusiccity.com.

www.visitmusiccity.com

Grand Ole Opry Grand Ole Opry House (800) See-Opry www.opry.com What began as a simple radio broadcast in 1925 is today a live-entertainment phenomenon dedicated to honoring country music’s rich history and dynamic present with a mix of country legends and the contemporary chart-toppers who have followed in their footsteps. YEAR-ROUND Metro Parks Festivals & Special Events All Metro area parks 862-8424 www.nashville.gov/parks Free concerts, events and performances for all audiences occur year-round across the city’s beautiful park system. Call for schedules. FOURTH WEEKEND EACH MONTH Tennessee State Fairgrounds Flea Market Tennessee State Fairgrounds 862-5016 www.tennesseestatefair.org The Tennessee State Fairgrounds Flea Market is one of the top 10 flea markets in the country. Dealers and vendors from 30 states offer a variety of gifts, antiques, collectibles, jewelry, arts and crafts, tools, housewares, handmade clothing and thousands of other items each month. THROUGHOUT 2009 The Matilda Geddings Gray Foundation Collection of Fabergé Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art 356-8000 www.cheekwood.org Among the world’s most significant compilation of Fabergé pieces, the collection includes 57 rare pieces highlighted by three Russian Imperial Easter eggs, important functional items, fantasy items and floral works. THROUGH JUNE 2009 Kitty Wells: Queen of Country Music, Presented by Great American Country Television Network Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum 416-2001 www.countrymusichalloffame.com Born Muriel Deason in Nashville on Aug. 30, 1919, Wells forged a groundbreaking career that spanned more than a halfcentury. Her indelible contributions to

American music were acknowledged formally in 1976, when she was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum. Employing a wealth of splendid stage costumes, vintage photos, awards, instruments, posters and advertisements, personal correspondence and career-spanning audio and video of Wells and husband Johnny Wright, the exhibit explores how Wells succeeded in tearing down country music’s gender barrier and became a role model for female artists.

For 22 years, the Nashville Shakespeare Festival has entertained and educated the Mid-South community with its energetic and family-friendly produc tions and innovative educational outreach. Join The Nashville Shakespeare Festival for its second-annual winter Shakespeare production at Troutt Theater. Richard III is story of a cruel yet charismatic villain who lies, cheats and charms his way to the throne.

THROUGH DEC. 31, 2009

Tennessee Abstract Painters

Family Tradition: The Williams Family Legacy

Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art 356-8000 www.cheekwood.org

Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum 416-2001 www.countrymusichalloffame.com This exhibition focuses on country music’s most iconic family, its colorful and calamitous personal history and the enduring artistic impact of Hank Williams and his son Hank Williams Jr. Family Tradition is accompanied by an ongoing series of school and family programs, including live concerts, panel discussions, films, instrument demonstrations and more. JANUARY 8-20 Nashville Symphony Presents Mahler’s Sixth Schermerhorn Symphony Center Box Office: 687-6400 www.nashvillesymphony.org Crackling rhythms and bold melodic leaps give Haydn’s 59th Symphony its subtitle of “Fire.” The astounding breadth of expression in Mahler’s music contains a world of emotion. In his “Tragic” Symphony No. 6, a recurring struggle pits a funeral march against a lyrical theme, which Mahler said was a musical depiction of his wife. JANUARY 9-10 Sprint Sound & Speed: A Celebration of Music & Motorsports Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum and Sommet Center 416-2001 Join NASCAR drivers and country music stars such as Richard Petty, Ryan Newman, Alan Jackson and Josh Turner for concerts, autograph sessions, auctions, Q&A sessions and show-car displays. The two-day event benefits both the Victory Junction Gang Camp in North Carolina and the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum. JANUARY 15-FEBRUARY 1 Richard III The Nashville Shakespeare Festival 255-2273 www.nashvilleshakes.org

All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

EVENTS

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS YEAR-ROUND, TUESDAYS MARCH-DECEMBER

JANUARY 17-JUNE 14

Despite abstraction and modernism falling out of favor in the late-20th century, many artists continued to practice this style in their paintings. Today, abstraction is experiencing resurgence on an international level. This exhibition will present works by Tennessee artists who participate in an international dialogue about what abstract painting can communicate and why it is still relevant. JANUARY 23-MAY 10 Paint Made Flesh Frist Center for the Visual Arts 244-3340 www.fristcenter.org Paint Made Flesh presents figure paintings created in Europe and the United States from the 1950s through 2006 in which a wide range of painterly effects suggest the carnal properties and cultural significance of human flesh and skin. The exhibition offers a rejoinder to the modernist orthodoxies of the mid- to late 20th century by contending that paint’s material properties make it the medium best suited to convey metaphors of human vulnerability. The exhibition includes works by Pablo Picasso, Francis Bacon, Lucian Freud, Willem de Kooning, Alice Neel and others. FEBRUARY 5-8 Antiques and Garden Show of Nashville Nashville Convention Center 352-9064 www.antiquesandgardenshow.com For the past 18 years, the Antiques and Garden Show of Nashville has brought together nationally and internationally renowned experts and exhibitors in the fields of antiques, decorative arts and landscape design. Taking its inspiration from Albert Hadley of Parish-Hadley Associates Inc. in New York, the show offers 150 antique and horticultural

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booths and many innovative landscaped gardens. In addition, experts who are on the cutting edge of home and garden styles will offer special lectures. FEBRUARY 6-21 The Giver Nashville Children’s Theatre 254-9103 www.nashvillechildrenstheatre.org This production is based on Lois Lowry’s stunning Newbery Award-winning science fiction novel. At the Ceremony of Twelve, a ritual wherein 12-year-olds are given their life assignments, the chief elder charges Jonas with the loneliest and most crucial function in his safe, comfortable, perfect community. He will study at the feet of the mysterious Giver, who will pass on to Jonas – and Jonas alone – the echoes of a world long past. Only Jonas will know pain, heartbreak and love, and he alone will stand up to the shocking truth of the community. FEBRUARY 13-JUNE 7 Medieval Treasures from the Cleveland Museum of Art Frist Center for the Visual Arts 244-3340 www.fristcenter.org The Cleveland Museum of Art possesses one of the finest and most comprehensive collections of early Christian, Byzantine and medieval European art in the world. It includes rare examples of ivories, enamels, sculpture, paintings and illuminated manuscripts from the third through the 16th centuries. Presenting approximately 100 works of art, this exhibition offers an unprecedented opportunity to view these extraordinary treasures outside of Cleveland. FEBRUARY 13-JUNE 7

One of the true household names in the classical field, world-class violinist Itzhak Perlman makes a special Valentine’s Day weekend appearance with the Nashville Symphony. A special bonus of these memorable concerts is that Perlman will also conduct the orchestra in a program of great classical music with, of course, a romantic flavor. FEBRUARY 26-28 Nashville Symphony Presents Mozart in Wonderland Schermerhorn Symphony Center Box Office: 687-6400 www.nashvillesymphony.org Something old: Mozart’s instantly recognizable 40th Symphony. Something new: David Del Tredici’s hurly-burly whirlwind piece Final Alice. Inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, Del Tredici’s unclassifiable Final Alice even employs a bluesy folk band with a banjo, accordion and two saxophones.

Toronto-based independent filmmaker Mike Hoolboom’s Imitations of Life integrates images drawn from mainstream cinema, newsreels and science fiction films. Sequences of deconstructed and recombined scenes, variously haunting and playful, hypnotically cast the cumulative effect of film as a force shaping our subconscious image in relation to the stream of history and the trajectory of humanity. FEBRUARY 14-15 Nashville Symphony Presents a Valentine’s Day Special with Itzhak Perlman Schermerhorn Symphony Center Box Office: 687-6400 www.nashvillesymphony.org

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Passing Time: The Art of William Christenberry Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art 356-8000 www.cheekwood.org William Christenberry looks for the spirit of Southern culture in the landscape and architecture of rural Alabama. Drawing from his formal training, family traditions and a lasting relationship with his boyhood home in Alabama, Christenberry has spent the past 50 years creating a remarkable body of work that explores all aspects of life and experience. This exhibition, organized by the Smithsonian American Art Museum, is a survey of past and present work and features more than 60 of Christenberry’s photographs, drawings, paintings, sculptures and building constructions. THURSDAYS, MARCH 26-JUNE 18 AND SEPTEMBER 10-OCTOBER 29 Opry Country Classics

MARCH 5-7 Nashville Symphony Presents Doc Severinsen Schermerhorn Symphony Center Box Office: 687-6400 www.nashvillesymphony.org Doc Severinsen, Johnny Carson’s longtime “Tonight Show” maestro, is back on the road with El Ritmo de la Vida (The Rhythm of Life). The all-new show features virtuosic classical Spanish music with a jazz flair, gorgeous American and Latino ballads and great movie music. Severinsen is joined by classical guitarist Gil Gutierrez, violinist Pedro Cartas and percussionist Luis Conte in concerts led by the symphony’s own Giancarlo Guerrero.

Mike Hoolboom: Imitations of Life Frist Center for the Visual Arts 244-3340 www.fristcenter.org

MARCH 14-JUNE 14

MARCH 10-APRIL 9 AND JUNE 5-27 Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse Nashville Children’s Theatre 254-9103 www.nashvillechildrenstheatre.org Humorist Kevin Kling’s exhilarating stage adaptation of Kevin Henkes’ hilarious book – Lilly is a mouse that knows what she likes. She likes that she is Queen of the World, and she likes the way her red cowboy boots go clickety-click down the hallway. She likes crunchy cheese snacks and she likes her best friends, Chester and Wilson. She doesn’t like her snooty Cousin Garland. She loves, loves, LOVES the purple plastic purse her grandmother bought her. She loves her teacher, Mr. Slinger, until he has to take her purple purse away from her in class.

Grand Ole Opry House (800) See-Opry www.opry.com This all-new addition to the Opry’s schedule will shine a spotlight on the classic country songs that have defined country music for generations of fans. Opry Country Classics will share country music’s colorful story through a live performance featuring country favorites performed by legends of the genre, as well as talented new artists, a rousing live band, square dancing and more. MARCH 29 Nashville Symphony Presents Voices of Spring Schermerhorn Symphony Center Box Office: 687-6400 www.nashvillesymphony.org Voices of Spring features a stunning repertoire of choral music from the Nashville Symphony Chorus and the Nashville Symphony Chamber Chorus, a smaller assembled group of the Nashville Symphony Chorus. MARCH 31-APRIL 4 Tin Pan South Throughout Music City 256-3354 www.tinpansouth.com Celebrate songwriters and their craft at America’s largest music festival dedicated to them. Produced by the Nashville Songwriters Association International, the festival brings hundreds of songwriters together for a weeklong educational symposium and approximately 100 performances in various venues around town.

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APRIL 4-SEPTEMBER 6 Trains! Tennessee in G Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art 356-8000 www.cheekwood.org The Model Railroad Garden, Trains! Tennessee in G is an enchanting outdoor exhibit that takes visitors across the state of Tennessee with model trains, miniature representations of Tennessee’s bestloved landmarks and colorful small-scale gardens. Train and garden enthusiasts will enjoy the delightful sights and sounds of the miniature trains traversing high and low through tunnels, across bridges and around buildings – all intricately handcrafted with natural materials.

The Country Music Marathon & 1/2 Marathon, produced by Elite Racing Inc., blends running with Nashville’s signature product, music. The event features more than 50 bands on 28 stages to entertain runners, walkers and spectators alike. More music awaits at the post-race concert at the Sommet Center.

away to the Island of the Greatest Goods, she is placed in a collection of the Best of the Best Things. So that she will not be sad, the memories of her family are taken from her, all except one. Compelled by that lone memory – a still life of a table, vase, iris and three chairs – this Finder of Lost Things will find herself, her father and her way home.

EVENTS

APRIL 1-30 Awesome April Throughout Music City (800) 657-6910 www.visitmusiccity.com For a seventh straight year, Music City celebrates the month of April with Awesome April, a musical tribute to the city that promises a major event each weekend. Throughout the month, be in the audience of nationally televised awards shows, take in a potential Oscarnominated documentary, listen to songwriters perform their awardwinning classic hits and relax to the sounds of acoustic guitars.

APRIL 28-MAY 17 Still Life With Iris

APRIL 30-MAY 2

Nashville Children’s Theatre 254-9103 www.nashvillechildrenstheatre.org

Schubert’s Ninth

Iris, Finder of Lost Things and the daughter of the Teacher of the Wind and the long-absent Day Breaker, is taken from her home against her will by the enigmatic Mr. Matternot. Whisked

Schermerhorn Symphony Center Box Office: 687-6400 www.nashvillesymphony.org Bartôk’s Third Piano Concerto demands the passionate expression and dazzling technique that has earned Andrew Armstrong more than 25 national and

APRIL 11 Spring Art Hop Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art 356-8000 www.cheekwood.org Celebrating the return of spring as one of the region’s most popular family holiday events. Among the daylong events and activities will be face painting, garden scavenger and Easter egg hunts, community painting and a giant bubble-making area. APRIL 16-18 Ben Vereen Sings Sammy Schermerhorn Symphony Center Box Office: 687-6400 www.nashvillesymphony.org Few entertainers today are as versatile and three-dimensional as Ben Vereen. His energy and sound transcend time, while his electrifying success is the result of rare talent, superb mastery and strong discipline. Here, he celebrates the unmistakable music and style of the legendary Sammy Davis Jr. APRIL 25 Country Music Marathon & 1/2 Marathon Throughout Music City (800) 311-1255 www.cmmarathon.com All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

Cultural Icons Creativity breeds culture. From the very beginning, Nashville embraced its creative community of writers, artists, educators and musicians, and it didn’t take long for the city to earn its nickname as the Athens of the South. For the state’s centennial celebration, Nashville paid homage to its growing reputation with a full-scale replica of the Parthenon. Today, the architectural marvel houses an art gallery downstairs and contains casts of the famed Elgin Marbles upstairs. Other interesting art venues include the Carl Van Vechten Art Gallery at Fisk University, which houses the Stieglitz Collection, Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art and the Frist Center for the Visual Arts, which is located downtown in a restored art deco building. The Frist welcomes internationally renowned collections and showcases regional talent. Mixed-media works by local artists are also available for viewing and purchase at the many galleries around town.

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international first prizes. Guest conductor Gßnther Herbig, noted for his interpretation of 19th-century German repertoire, leads the orchestra in Schubert’s monumental Symphony No. 9 The Great C Major and Weber’s Overture to Oberon.

embrace authentic and varied musical styles, while also creating something wholly unique in the field of American popular song. Join the eight-time Grammy-winning vocal quartet for a wonderful show. MAY 1-3

MAY 14-16 Nashville Symphony Presents Beethoven and Rachmaninoff Schermerhorn Symphony Center Box Office: 687-6400 www.nashvillesymphony.org

MAY 2-JULY 12

38th TACA Tennessee Craft Fair

Temporary Contemporary: Easton Selby

Centennial Park 385-1904

Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art 356-8000 www.cheekwood.org

TACA’s Tennessee Craft Fair is the state’s premier outdoor showcase for Tennessee craft artists. See the works of more than 175 of the state’s finest craftspeople. The fair offers a chance to meet and talk with exhibiting artists, eat and drink from an international food court, enjoy live music, view special exhibits and demonstrations, and purchase a variety of unique works.

Rachmaninoff’s last complete work, Symphonic Dances, bristles with rhythmic energy and abounds in lush melodies. Horacio GutiÊrrez returns to play Beethoven’s most tender and intimate piano concerto. With small passages for solo harp and big moments with the whole orchestra, composer and rock guitarist Steven Mackey’s Turn the Key showcases the excellent acoustics of Schermerhorn Symphony Center.

MAY 9

MAY 16

MAY 7-9

2009 Iroquois Steeplechase

A Toast to Tennessee Wine Festival

Nashville Symphony Presents Manhattan Transfer

Percy Warner Park 322-4814 www.iroquoissteeplechase.org

Nashville Shores 889-7050 www.nashvilleshores.com or www.atoasttottennessee.com

Easton’s photographs deal with the strange dichotomy of religion and iconography found within the deep South. Easton resides in Nashville, where he teaches all levels of photography between Lipscomb and Belmont universities.

Schermerhorn Symphony Center Box Office: 687-6400 www.nashvillesymphony.org It has been nearly 35 years since Tim Hauser was driving a New York City taxicab while aspiring to form a harmony vocal quartet. The idea was to

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tailgating at the races is a springtime tradition in Nashville.

62 Nashville Group Travel Planner

For more than 65 years, the Iroquois Steeplechase has captivated tens of thousands of spectators from near and far with its traditions, pageantry and energy of sport. It is one of the oldest, most prestigious and most challenging steeplechase races in the country, and

Celebrate Tennessee at a Toast to Tennessee Wine Festival. The festival features award-winning Tennessee wineries offering samples of their favorite wines, live music, gourmet food and food seminars, and local artisans.

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Salute to Freedom 2009 Nashville Shores 889-7050 www.nashvilleshores.com Salute to Freedom 2009 observes and recognizes the sacrifices of men and women who have served in the armed forces and their families who have supported them. Events include beach concerts, veterans dinner, raising of largest American flag in Tennessee and more. There will be fireworks on May 24. Retirees and veterans of the military and their families receive half-price admission the entire weekend. MAY 28-30 Nashville Symphony Presents Beethoven’s Ninth Schermerhorn Symphony Center Box Office: 687-6400 www.nashvillesymphony.org Leonard Slatkin leads his last performances as Nashville Symphony’s music advisor in one of the most influential and enduringly popular works in the pantheon of art: Beethoven’s Ninth. Samuel Barber’s Prayers of Kierkegaard, inspired by the Danish philosopher’s writings, opens the concert with contemplative lyricism. MAY 29-AUGUST 23 Museums in the 21st Century: Concepts, Projects, Buildings Frist Center for the Visual Arts 244-3340 www.fristcenter.org This exhibition explores important trends in contemporary museum architecture. Twenty-six of the world’s leading museum building projects that have been realized since the turn of the century will be illustrated by sketches, architectural plans, photographs and models. Accompanying the exhibition will be a catalog of critical essays by renowned architectural historians and critics who discuss the projects in the context of their cultural and urban environments. THURSDAYS, JUNE-JULY Bluegrass Nights at the Ryman

A delightful, funny and wise folk tale set in the Irish isles. A simple fisherman hooks a talking flounder that grants wishes! Though the contented fisherman wishes for nothing, his wife is quite a different story. She has a wish – and another, then another, then another – until the poor fisherman is returning daily to get more magic from the fish. With a lovely traditional score by Paul Carrol Binkley and hilarious audience participation, this wonderful little play is a treat for families. JUNE 11-14 2009 CMA Music Festival Downtown Music City (800) CMA-FEST www.cmafest.com The CMA Music Festival is the largest country music party in the world and the ultimate destination for music lovers! The annual, four-day event features more than 70 hours of live musical performances and 30 hours of autograph signings by more than 400 country music artists and celebrities. Call for tickets or visit www.ticketmaster.com to buy online, or charge by phone at 255-9600. JUNE 26-SEPTEMBER 13 Chuck Close Prints: Process and Collaboration Frist Center for the Visual Arts 244-3340 www.fristcenter.org While Chuck Close is renowned for his signature, gridded portrait paintings derived from photographs and transferred onto the canvas using various systems of mark making, he has also experimented with etching, aquatint, woodcut, silkscreen and other printing techniques throughout his career. This exhibition is a comprehensive survey of his output as a printmaker and collaborator with master printers, spanning more than 30 years.

Enjoy a fireworks show to celebrate our nation’s independence on the banks of Percy Priest Lake. JULY 4 Music City July 4th: Let Freedom Sing! Riverfront Park (800) 657-6910 www.musiccityjuly4th.com Noon to 10:30 p.m. Enjoy an evening of free entertainment, fun and fireworks. This annual event is Nashville’s largest one-day party, attracting more than 100,000 revelers. Live music, family activities, food vendors and one of the nation’s best fireworks displays will help you celebrate America’s birthday in style. EVERY FRIDAY IN JULY, STARTING JULY 10 Dive-In Movies Nashville Shores 889-7050 www.nashvilleshores.com Watch movies in a whole new way, lounging in the pool under the moon and stars. Enjoy classic movies on a more than 30-foot-wide, lakeside movie screen. Movies start at dusk and are included in the Nashville Shores water park admission. Check the Nashville Shores Web site for movie titles. JULY 11-SEPTEMBER 20 Shout Freedom! The Photo League Collection from The Columbus Museum of Art Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art 356-8000 www.cheekwood.org

JUNE 26-SEPTEMBER 13

The Photo League was one of the most influential photography movements of the 20th century but was surrounded in controversy and conjecture. Formed in 1938, the Photo League was the breeding ground for a generation of idealistic New Yorkers who believed that their gritty, documentary images of urban life would change the world.

Dean Byington: New Works

AUGUST 3-7

Frist Center for the Visual Arts 244-3340 www.fristcenter.org

Snake Hunter Nashville Shores 889-7050 www.nashvilleshores.com

Experience the best in bluegrass from the very stage where bluegrass was born.

Oakland, Calif.-based artist Dean Byington creates large collaged paintings, comprising dense accumulations of such fantastic imagery as anthropomorphic animals and topographical views of enchanted lands as if seen from a distant mountaintop.

JUNE 6-27

JULY 3

The Fisherman and His Wife

Shores & Stripes

Shakespeare in the Park 2009: The Tempest

Nashville Children’s Theatre 254-9103 www.nashvillechildrenstheatre.org

Nashville Shores 889-7050 www.nashvilleshores.com

The Nashville Shakespeare Festival 255-2273 www.nashvilleshakes.org

Ryman Auditorium 889-3060 www.ryman.com

All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

EVENTS

MAY 23-25

This event features amazing anacondas, pythons and other snakes. Returning for its fifth year, this is a Nashville Shores favorite. Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; free with paid water park admission. AUGUST 13-SEPTEMBER 7

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For 22 years The Nashville Shakespeare Festival has entertained and educated the Mid-South with its energetic and family-friendly productions and innovative educational outreach. Enjoy an enchanting evening of theater under the stars at The Nashville Shakespeare Festival’s Annual free Shakespeare in Centennial Park. The Tempest is Shakespeare’s magical tale of old enemies and young lovers, timeless folly and enduring wisdom. SEPTEMBER 4-6 Jet-Ski National Championships Nashville Shores 889-7050 www.nashvilleshores.com Hundreds of America’s top personal watercraft riders compete for the national championship in several classes. SEPTEMBER 10-JANUARY 3, 2010 The City in Twilight: Surrealism, Photography and Paris 1924-1939 Frist Center for the Visual Arts 244-3340 www.fristcenter.org Including more than 120 photographs by such artists as Man Ray, Eugène Atget, Brassa, Hans Bellmer and André Kertész, The City in Twilight will celebrate Paris as the literal and metaphoric foundation of surrealism. In addition to examining the revolutionary social, aesthetic and political activities of the movement between the world wars, the exhibition will focus on works that evoke the mystery of the chance encounters experienced by the surrealists as they wandered through the labyrinthine city streets. SEPTEMBER 11-13 Home Decorating & Remodeling Show Nashville Convention Center (800) 343-8344 www.nashvillehomeshow.com This upscale home show, held each fall at the Nashville Convention Center, affords the ultimate opportunity for product and price comparison shopping. The show features unique merchandise, numerous show specials and many free drawings. This is everyone’s chance to save time, money and gas. SEPTEMBER 26-NOVEMBER 8

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Get ready for some good, old-fashioned fall fun at Cheekwood. Scarecrows will showcase dozens of fabulous, weird, funny and traditional scarecrows lurking along the garden’s paths. SEPTEMBER 25-27 TACA Fall Craft Fair Centennial Park 385-1904 Celebrating its 30th year, TACA’s Fall Craft Fair is the state’s premier showcase for American fine craft artists. See the works of more than 200 of the nation’s finest craftspeople. The fair offers a chance to talk with exhibiting artists, eat and drink from an international food court, enjoy live music, view special exhibits and demonstrations, and purchase a variety of unique works. SEPTEMBER 28-OCTOBER 4 World of Bluegrass Nashville Convention Center (888) 438-4262 The weeklong bluegrass homecoming includes Bluegrass Fan Fest and the broadcast of the International Bluegrass Awards. Fans from all over the world gather for hundreds of performances on multiple stages, musical workshops, the Grand Master Fiddle Championships and the opportunity to interact with internationally known bluegrass artists. OCTOBER 2-JANUARY 31, 2010 Georgia O’Keeffe and Her Times: American Modernism from the Lane Collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

OCTOBER 9-11 Southern Festival of Books War Memorial Plaza 770-0006 www.humanities.tennessee.org/festival The Southern Festival of Books: A Celebration of the Written Word is a three-day literary festival celebrated each year during the second full weekend of October. The festival welcomes more than 200 authors from throughout the nation for readings, panel discussions and book signings. In addition, the festival hosts popular book exhibitors and three performance stages. It is free and open to the public. NOVEMBER 13-JANUARY 4, 2010 A Country Christmas Gaylord Opryland® Resort and Convention Center (888) 999-OPRY www.gaylordhotels.com This Nashville tradition is back with live music, carriage rides, craft shows, photos with Santa and nearly 2 million Christmas lights. It’s everything Christmas at Gaylord Opryland® Resort!

Frist Center for the Visual Arts 244-3340 www.fristcenter.org

THANKSGIVING-NEW YEAR’S EVE

In the 1950s, William H. Lane (1914–1995), the owner of a small Massachusetts manufacturing plant, began assembling an extraordinary collection of American modern art that, in 1990, he donated to the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. With major paintings by Georgia O’Keeffe, Arthur G. Dove, Stuart Davis, Charles Sheeler and many other artists, the exhibition shows the collector’s passion for art that reflects the diversity and dynamism of American modernism.

(800) 657-6910 www.visitmusiccity.com

OCTOBER 2-JANUARY 31, 2010

Scarecrows

Oliver Herring: Sculpture and Video

Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art 356-8000 www.cheekwood.org

Frist Center for the Visual Arts 244-3340 www.fristcenter.org

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collaborates with friends and strangers in the creation of his sculptures, performances and video art. This exhibition includes figurative works in which the artist first makes photographic close-ups of his subjects’ entire bodies. He then sculpts the form of their bodies out of polystyrene. The photographs are cut into puzzlelike shapes and adhered to the sculpted figures, lending the uncanny quality of a photograph seen in the round.

New York-based artist Oliver Herring

Holiday Harmony

Nashville has your ticket to Holiday Harmony, bringing together the best of entertainment – from club shows to extravaganzas – sports and fine art. You’ll enjoy beautiful decorations, charming traditions and, of course, incredible music everywhere you go. NOVEMBER 27-JANUARY 3, 2010 Season of Celebration Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art 356-8000 www.cheekwood.org A holiday wonderland of Christmas trees, decorations, storytelling, cookie decorating, multicultural activities and musical performances.

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tours Transportation It’s a breeze to navigate Nashville. Its central location makes it easily accessible, whether you’re flying in or driving to Music City. Taxis, trolleys, river cruises and horse-drawn carriages are available for finding your way around town, too.

www.visitmusiccity.com

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Tour Companies Adventureworks Inc. 1319 Riverwood Drive 297-2250, (866) 731-6060, F: 226-5406 www.adventureworks.com Adventureworks is a team-building company that helps corporate groups achieve success through team development, meeting facilitation, clear goals, effective communication and productive conflict. Adventureworks programs are engaging, energizing and fun, from two-hour to multi-day retreats. Programs include ropes courses, scavenger hunts and group challenges. All In One Destinations Inc. 107 Music City Circle, Ste. 218 871-7232, (800) 421-4422 www.southernvacations.com

Complete vacation packages including the best Nashville has to offer. Individual and group packages including the Grand Ole Opry, CMA Music Festival and more! Rates vary. Packages include hotel, tours, attractions, shows and more. Customized packages available. Anchor Trailways & Tours 3108 Blevins Road, Whites Creek 860-6800, (800) 476-2841, F: 860-0058 www.anchortrailways.com Experience all that Music City has to offer! We provide complete travel packages for groups and individuals including accommodations, transportation, attractions and more. In addition to fully customizable itineraries, we offer Opry, Christmas and CMA Fest Packages. Call today to experience the most Nashville has to offer. Advertising Partner, p. 67 Art Henry’s Tour & Receptive P.O. Box 23766, 37202 386-9301, (800) 223-4581, F: 386-9332 www.arthenry.com A minute with us can save you hours ... complete itinerary planning for groups. We’ve been working with groups since 1978 ... CMA Music Festival, CMA Awards Show, NFL Tennessee Titans, New Year’s Eve at Gaylord Opryland Resort Ž, Country Christmas at Gaylord Opryland Resort Ž, reserved seats to the

world famous Grand Ole Opry ... let us be your “tour partner!� Services: Receptive Services, Sight Seeing Available, Step-on Guides, Tour Packages, 24 Hour Answering Service. Credit Cards: Group rates available. Guided tours available. Authentic Tours of Historic Black Nashville and Beyond P.O. Box 281613, 37228 299-5626, F: 299-5598 www.tnvacations.com Specialty tours by trained historians focusing on historical, cultural concepts. Sites include Underground RR, 1st park, bank, hospitals, antebellum churches, forts and monuments, antebellum schools and historic colleges, World Center, Greek temple model and more. Services: Sight Seeing Available, Step-on Guides, Tour Packages. Complimentary bus parking. Complimentary admission for driver or escort. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 24. Group Capacity: 55 Guided tours available. Destination Nashville 835 Wren Road, Goodlettsville 851-9190, www.destinationnashville.com Destination Nashville is your door to the exciting sites, attractions, venues and resources that represent the distinct character of Music City.

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Spend the day with a lifestyle designer and make your dreams come true. Get styled like one of your favorite stars. Choose from various Packages. The DreamPackage: a limo ride with a lifestyle designer to the best stores in the city to get the perfect look, hair and makeup, lunch, and a photo shoot to end the day... priceless! Email us at info@dilussolifestyle. com to schedule your dreamday! Franklin on Foot Landmark Booksellers, 114 E. Main St., Franklin 400-3808, www.franklinonfoot.com A costumed guide leads evening ghost tours by candlelight in what some call the most haunted town in Tennessee, historic Franklin, just 15 miles south of Nashville. We also offer historic tours, and with Carnton Plantation, a tour based on the New York Times bestseller The Widow of the South. “I Spy for Children� educates and entertains all at the same time. Don’t miss Franklin on your trip to Nashville!

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TOURS & TRANSPORTATION

DiLusso Lifestyle LLC (877) 37-STYLE, www.dilussolifestyle.com

General Jackson Showboat 2812 Opryland Drive 458-3930, www.generaljackson.com Climb aboard for a unique entertainment experience. This 300-foot paddlewheel riverboat cruises the Cumberland River offering fantastic shows and delicious meals. Special event cruises are offered throughout the year with holiday shows beginning in mid-November. Lunch and dinner cruises; call for schedule. Grand Ole Opry Backstage Tours 2802 Opryland Drive (800) SEE-OPRY, www.opry.com

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Learn the fascinating history of the world’s longest-running radio show with a guided walking tour of the Grand Ole Opry House. Your knowledgeable guide will provide a rare glimpse of what happens behind the scenes of this famous country music show. Gray Line Tours 2416 Music Valley Drive, Ste. 102 883-5555, www.graylinenashville.com Fantastic tours highlighting Nashville’s most popular attractions: Country Music Hall of FameŽ and Museum, Ryman Auditorium, homes of the stars, historic mansions, Grand Ole Opry, Jack Daniel Distillery and more. Experienced guides are available for custom itineraries. Specializing in reunion groups, CMA Music Festival and Christmas packages. All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

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Services: Charters. Discounts: AARP, AAA. Credit Cards: Advertising Partner, p. 69 and back cover Haunted Ghost Tours of America Inc. 623 Union St. 469-5825, www.hauntedghosttours.com Join us at the Sheraton Downtown Nashville for a leisurely walking tour of notable downtown landmarks. Hear stories of the strange and unexplained from knowledgeable guides to learn why Nashville is considered one of the most haunted cities in America. Discounts: Military. Credit Cards: Complimentary admission for driver or escort. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 10. Group Capacity: 100 Haunted Tavern Tours Tour starting point varies. 884-3999, F: 884-5445 www.hauntedtaverntours.com

Celebrating Diversity You can learn a lot from music. Just as it takes many different notes to form a melody, Nashville has found that blending cultures and ethnicities allows for a much richer harmony. Fisk University’s beautiful Jubilee Hall was the country’s first permanent structure for the higher education of blacks, and the Jubilee Singers were Nashville’s very first touring group. Numerous historic sites, museums and events offer visitors insight into the diverse ethnic and cultural influences that resonate throughout Music City. Today, the area is home to a variety of ethnic communities, making Nashville a modern model of the American melting pot.

This tour will get you up close with the “spirits” of Music City in Nashville’s most haunted taverns. At each location, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a beverage and relax while hearing “intoxicating” tales of the pub’s haunted history. Tours begin nightly at 6 p.m. Services: Receptive Services, Self-Guided Tours, Step-on Guides. Credit Cards: Johnny Walker Tours 2416 Music Valley Drive, Ste. 118 834-8585, (800) 722-1524 www.johnnywalkertours.com With superior expertise and experience, Johnny Walker Tours highlights

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68 Nashville Group Travel Planner

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Music City Duck Tours 110 Second Ave. N. 477-5255, F: 730-9262 www.nashvilleducktours.com Historic Tour of Downtown Nashville in an Authentic World War ll DUKW vehicle. Guaranteed to provide lots of laughs and fun! Services: Sight Seeing Available. Discounts: Military, Web. Credit Cards: Complimentary admission for driver or escort. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 10. Group Capacity: 30 Guided tours available.

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TOURS & TRANSPORTATION

Nashville attractions and shows the client the true meaning of Music City. Offering complete package planning with individual and group rates in various hotel categories. Includes attraction tickets and sightseeing tours.

Nashville Black Heritage Tours 5188 Almaville Road, Smyrna 890-8173 This African-American perspective focuses on the contributions made by black Nashvillians past and present. Nashville Brews Cruise 702 Fenwick Close, Murfreesboro 542-9919, F: 542-9919 www.nashvillebrewscruise.com Enjoy the best craft beers that Nashville has to offer! Nashville Brews Cruise takes guests on an intimate visit to Music City’s best craft breweries, with transportation, brewery tours, beer samples and more all included in one low price. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 4. Group Capacity: 13 Guided tours available.

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Nashville Express Tours 1700 Decatur Circle, Franklin 872-7585, (800) 638-8687 www.nashvilleexpress.com Custom packages for Nashville, including Grand Ole Opry, CMA Music Festival, A Country Christmas, Sound & Speed, Gaylord OprylandÂŽ Resort and Convention Center and off-season packages. Nashville Ghost Tours 5806 Avalon Court, Hermitage 884-3999, www.nashvilleghosttours.com Explore the haunted history of Music City during this 90-minute walking tour. Your historically costumed, lanternbearing guide will lead you to some of the most haunted locations in downtown Nashville including the Ryman Auditorium, Printers Alley and Tennessee State Capitol. All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

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offer a late model fleet of mini buses, full size motorcoaches and Executive VIPs along with an experienced and courteous staff to make your visit and enjoyable one. Advertising Partner, p. 67 Gray Line Nashville 2416 Music Valley Drive, Ste. 102 883-5555, F: 883-6710 www.graylinenashville.com Departs from the airport every 15 minutes and from hotels in the downtown and West End areas every 30 minutes. Services: Charters. Discounts: AARP, AAA . Credit Cards: Advertising Partner, p. 69 and back cover InShuttle Transportation Inc. P.O. Box 330897, 37203 255-3519, www.inshuttle.com Offers passenger transportation for any occasion with a fleet of late-model minibuses and mini-coaches. InShuttle offers charters, day trips and shuttle services.

Lower Broadway teems with entertainment and dining options for visitors.

Nashville Trolley Tour & All About Nashville Day Pass Gray Line Visitor Center, corner of Second Avenue & Broadway 248-4437 www.graylinenashville.com/tours.cfm

Share your Nashville vacation with a company dedicated to personalized service. Enjoy unique tours, scavenger hunts, hotel and attraction packages and customized itineraries for groups and individuals.

Enjoy a one-hour downtown and Music Row narrated tour aboard an old-fashioned trolley. The All About Nashville Day Pass includes the trolley tour, historic downtown walking tour (see below) and tickets to the Ryman Auditorium and Country Music Hall of Fame®.

Group rates available. Group Requirement: 15. Guided tours available.

Office: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily; trolley tours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. daily; All About Nashville Day Pass, available Tue.-Sat. Services: Self-Guided Tours, Sight Seeing Available, Step-on Guides. Credit Cards: Group rates available. Old Fashioned Smiley Hollow Hayride and Barndance Co. Inc. P.O. Box 620, 37152, Ridgetop 859-6310, www.smileyhollow.com Authentic party facility in the hills of Tennessee only 20 minutes from Nashville. Sharin’ Nashville Tours 3421 White Pine Dr. 846-0867, (800) 636-8687, F: 846-0870 www.sharinnashvilletours.com

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Sweet Magnolia Tours 7057 Cotton Blossom Lane 646-0017, www.sweetmagnoliatours.com One call does it all! Specializing in Southern hospitality, Sweet Magnolia Tours offers complete tour planning for groups and individuals. We offer customized itineraries using a wide variety of hotel choices, attraction tickets, meal planning and step-on guide service. Advertising Partner, p. 68

Transportation Services Anchor Trailways & Tours 3108 Blevins Road, Whites Creek 860-6800, (800) 476-2841, F: 860-0058 www.anchortrailways.com Complete ground transportation provider available for charter, airport transfers and sight seeing tours. We

Matchless Limousine 254 Spence Lane 620-5466, (866) 258-5466, F: 620-5476 www.matchlesslimo.com Matchless Limousine is committed to providing our clients with a luxurious, first-class travel experience. Our fleet is Matchless - Our service is Matchless. Services: Limousine Service, Sight Seeing Available. Credit Cards: Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority One Terminal Drive, Ste. 501 275-1600, F: 275-4001 www.flynashville.com Nashville International Airport is served by 14 airlines and operates 392 average daily flights to more than 89 markets. In 2007, BNA served nearly 10 million passengers. Currently, BNA is undergoing the first interior terminal renovation in 21 years since the current terminal opened in 1987. Launched in October 2006, the renovation incorporates the airport’s Master Concessions Plan, giving passengers and guests the chance to taste and experience Nashville. The new food, beverage and retail options reflect a strong local flavor as well as recognizable national brands. The renovation also includes a new central security checkpoint, skylights, flight information panels, carpeting and other upgrades, as well as renovation of the ticket lobby, restrooms, escalators and elevators.

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only the best vendors with the highest safety records.

Preferred by royal families, US Presidents, and high schoolers, Premiere offers a distinctly unique fleet of luxury coaches.

SuperShuttle International 612 Hangar Lane 361-6034, (800) 258-3826, F: 361-6025 www.supershuttle.com

Signature Transportation 408-B Harding Industrial Drive (866) 378-1916, www.nashvillelimo.com Providing reliable luxury ground transportation service throughout Nashville. Our reservation and fleet management software, new limousines, sedans, and luxury transportation vehicles such as stretch Hummers and Excursions, plus highly professional, courteous and experienced chauffeurs and efficient and dedicated management staff combine to make Signature the recognized leader in its field. Stewart Transportation Solutions Inc. 2814 Columbine Place 292-6040 www.stewarttransportation.com Specializing in the planning and coordination of all types of transportation. From airport transfers and local bus charters to complex convention shuttle programs. We move people from one to 50,000, utilizing

We provide airport transportation to all of Nashville and surrounding areas. We will pick you up at your office, home or hotel. We also provide charters from your office, home or hotel. 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Services: Charters, Receptive Services. Discounts: Military, Government, Web. Credit Cards:

Auto Rental Enterprise Rent-A-Car Nashville A/P, 284 Mallory Station Road, Franklin 275-0011, (800) Rent-A-Car www.enterprise.com Enterprise Rent-A-Car, the largest car rental company in North America, specializes in renting vehicles to customers who require a vehicle for a special occasion such as a short business or leisure trip. In order to serve the needs of all customers, Enterprise offers free customer pick up as well as more than 120 types of automobiles,

including trucks, vans and sport-utility vehicles. With multiple locations in the Middle TN area, “Pick Enterprise, We’ll Pick You Up.� Thrifty Car Rental 1201 Briley Pkwy. 361-6050, (800) 847-4389, F: 361-1849 www.thrifty.com Thrifty car rental is available in the terminal at the Nashville International Airport and at suburban locations on Briley Parkway, in Brentwood and in Murfreesboro.

Airlines American Airlines/American Eagle/ American Connection Nashville Metropolitan Airport, One Terminal Drive (800) 433-7300, www.aa.com

TOURS & TRANSPORTATION

Premiere Transportation 1000 Corporate Centre 296-9000

Continental Express (800) 525-0280, www.continental.com Delta Airlines/Delta Connection (800) 221-1212, www.delta.com Frontier Airlines (800) 432-1359, www.frontierairlines.com Northwest Airlines (800) 225-2525, www.nwa.com

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All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

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Skyway/Midwest Express (800) 452-2022 www.midwestexpress.com Southwest Airlines 402 BNA Drive, Ste. 410 872-7709, www.southwest.com United Express Airlines (800) 428-4322, www.united.com US Airways (800) 428-4322, www.usairways.com

Taxicabs Meters (except at the airport) start at $3; each additional mile is $2. There is a flat-fare triangle between the airport, downtown and Gaylord Opryland® Resort and Convention Center. Between any two points in the triangle, the fare is set at $25 for up to four passengers. For areas outside of the triangle, the meter starts at $7 from the airport. Taxis are available on the ground level of the terminal. Music City Taxi 729 Calhoun Ave. 262-0451, www.musiccitytaxi.com Nashville Transportation (Checker Cab) 221 Largo Drive 256-7000, F: 331-6215 www.nashvillecheckercab.com Transportation Licensing Commission 862-6777, www.nashville.gov/tlc

Bus Service Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) Deaderick Street between Fourth & Fifth Avenues North, 862-5950, www.nashvillemta.org

Hit the Road Take time to explore the back roads and byways to discover the many sights and sounds just a short drive from Nashville. Historic homes, Civil War battlefields, horse farms, charming town squares and beautiful scenery are all part of the Middle Tennessee landscape. Popular tours include visits to area wineries and distilleries. Arrington Vineyards, co-owned by country music superstar Kix Brooks of the awardwinning duo Brooks & Dunn, is the area’s premier vineyard and offers a dozen outstanding wines for tasting. Two of the nation’s most famous whiskeys are created just minutes from Nashville – the Jack Daniel and George Dickel distilleries are located just 17 miles apart. Tours showcase the different distilling methods that give each sipping whiskey its distinctive flavor. No matter what the day’s itinerary, it’s an easy drive back to Music City to enjoy a night on the town.

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The Metro Transit Authority now provides hourly service between downtown and the airport seven days a week. Express trips take only 20 minutes, and local service takes 35 to 45 minutes. One-way fares between the airport and downtown are available for less than $2. In town, MTA provides bus service in and out of downtown and throughout the city. Allday, unlimited-ride passes are available for $4.80. Music City Central, the new downtown transit station, is at 400 Charlotte Ave., between Fourth and Fifth Avenues North. For more information, call 862-5950 or go online at www.nashvillemta.org. Customer service hours: 6:30 a.m.6:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat.; 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Sun. Exact change only for fares. All Day and Seven Day passes also available.

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Dining

Nashville’s award-winning chefs are known for their creative fare, which you can find at the city’s many hip dining spots, down-home eateries and romantic restaurants. To help satisfy your hunger, the restaurants in this section are arranged alphabetically.

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Price legend under $10 $10-15 $16-22 $23+

credit cards

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The Acorn West End/Vanderbilt 114 28th Ave. N. 320-4399, www.theacornrestaurant.com American. Many things to many people, The Acorn features fine dining, two full bars, private events and patio seating. Independently owned and conveniently located in the West End District. 5-10 p.m. Mon.-Thu.; 5-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Reservations recommended. Credit Cards: The Aquarium Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 516 Opry Mills Dr. 514-8600 Seafood. Located in Opry Mills, Aquarium offers sensational food in a unique setting. Guests dine around a

200,000-gallon saltwater tank featuring more than 100 species of tropical fish. After dining, experience Stingray Reef where you can feed stingrays, enjoy exhibits, games and a carousel. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Mon.-Thu.; 11 a.m.11 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun. B.B. King’s Blues Club and Restaurant Downtown 152 Second Ave. N. 256-2727, www.bbkingclubs.com Southern/New Southern. Featuring a variety of great Creole cuisine fused with flavors from around the globe but with unmistakable Southern roots. Sample catfish bites, fried green tomatoes, ribs or pulled BBQ pork capped off with banana bread pudding and highlighted by the blues. 11 a.m.-midnight Sun.; 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Mon.-Thu.; 11 a.m.-3 a.m. Fri.-Sat. Big River Grille and Brewing Works Downtown 111 Broadway 251-4677, www.bigrivergrille.com American. Restaurant/Brewery featuring fresh food and fresh beer in a fun, casual atmosphere, including the largest covered patio in Historic Downtown. Private dining available up to 400 people. Reservations accepted. Credit Cards: The Bluebird Cafe Green Hills 4104 Hillsboro Road 383-5308, www.bluebirdcafe.net American. Become a part of Nashville musical history at one of the city’s bestloved live entertainment venues. Menu includes an array of appetizers, sandwiches, salads and desserts. 5:30-11 p.m. Mon.-Thu.; 5:30 p.m.12:30 a.m. Fri.-Sat.; 6-11 p.m. Sun. Most early shows are free, most late shows $10. Bob Evans Restaurant Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 200 Rudy Circle 889-9266, www.bobevans.com American. Country homestyle restaurant with a unique general store for a completely Southern shopping and dining experience. 6 a.m.-10 p.m. daily. Bound’ry West End/Vanderbilt 911 20th Ave. S. 321-3043, www.pansouth.net

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Eclectic/International. With a divine and eclectic menu featuring global cuisine, the Bound’ry is where all borders meet. See the live oak tree growing in the downstairs bar. Open-air dining available.

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7 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun.-Thu.; 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat.

Caney Fork Fish Camp Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2400 Music Valley Drive 724-1200, www.caneyforkfishcamp.com

Chaffin’s Barn Dinner Theatre West Nashville 8204 Highway 100 646-9977, (800) 282-2276 www.dinnertheatre.com

Seafood. A new Nashville family restaurant complete with two fish ponds and two fireplaces. Enjoy freshly prepared food and Southern hospitality.

American. Nashville’s first professional theatre. Serving up great buffets and Broadway plays for more than 40 years.

Capitol Grille, Hermitage Hotel Downtown 231 Sixth Ave. N. 345-7116

Evening buffet 6-7:30 p.m., show 8 p.m.; Sun. buffet noon-1:30 p.m., show 2 p.m. Reservations required. Credit Cards:

Continental. Reinventing Southern gourmet cuisine using the freshest regional ingredients served in plush surroundings at The Hermitage Hotel.

Chef’s Market Café & Take Away North Nashville 900 Conference Drive, Goodlettsville 851-2433, www.chefsmarket.com

Hours vary, call for details.

Deli/Gourmet Deli. In our restaurant or on the go, pick up or delivery, catering at the office, home, or major venues around Nashville. When you are hungry for something inspired, Chef’s Market is the perfect choice.

Cascades Seafood Restaurant, Gaylord Opryland® Resort Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2800 Opryland Drive 871-6848, www.gaylordopryland.com Seafood. Surrounded by spectacular waterfalls and lush gardens of the Cascades Atrium at Gaylord Opryland® Resort, the menu includes monthly seafood fresh-catch features, Australian lobster tails and tempura-battered tiger shrimp.

10:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Mon.-Sat. Cock of the Walk Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2624 Music Valley Drive 889-1930 www.cockofthewalkrestaurant.com

Southern. Enjoy great Southern food and hospitality at Nashville’s most unique restaurant. Offering US farm raised catfish served “family-style.”

DINING

4 p.m.-1 a.m. Sun.-Mon.; 4 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Tue.-Sat. Reservations accepted. Credit Cards:

5-9 p.m. Mon.-Thur.; 5-10 p.m. Fri.; 4-10 p.m. Sat.; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun. Commerce Street Grill, Renaissance Hotel Downtown 611 Commerce St. 255-8400 American. In the beautiful Renaissance Nashville Hotel with a bountiful breakfast and lunch buffet. Our dinner menu offers a variety of delicious grill options with a distinct local flavor. Breakfast: 6-10 a.m.; Lunch: 11 a.m.3 p.m.; Dinner: 5-10 p.m.; Live jazz: 5-9 p.m. Tue.-Sat. Copper Kettle Café & Catering Green Hills 4004 Granny White Pike Southern. We believe in doing things the old-fashioned way ... serving homecooked culinary delights in a casual setting. Catering is a specialty with fullservice options from Southern cuisine to global flavors for intimate dinner parties or large events. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday Brunch.

47300

All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

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Dave & Buster’s Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 540 Opry Mills Drive 514-1202, www.daveandbusters.com

F. Scott’s Restaurant & Jazz Bar Green Hills 2210 Crestmoor Road 269-5861, www.fscotts.com

American. From our mouthwatering peppercorn ribeye steak & chargrilled Atlantic salmon to our classic Philly cheesesteak, we have something delicious for everyone.

American. Fine American cuisine with a French influence. Live Jazz in the lounge 7 nights a week.

11 a.m.-midnight Sun.-Thu.; until 1 a.m. Fri.-Sat. Reservations not accepted. Demos’ Steak and Spaghetti House Downtown 300 Commerce St. 256-4655 American. Featuring pasta and steak, this downtown restaurant is a local favorite. Try the buttery rolls and famous chicken and rice soup. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sun.-Thu.; 11 a.m.-midnight Fri.-Sat. eat, the restaurant at Loews Vanderbilt West End/Vanderbilt 2100 West End Ave. 321-1990, www.loewsvanderbilt.com American. Gracious service and a diversified menu. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. 6 a.m.-10 p.m. daily.

5:30-9 p.m. Sun.; 5:30-10 p.m. Mon.-Thu.; 5:30-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; Bar opens at 4:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Reservations Credit Cards: accepted. Findley’s Irish Pub, Gaylord Opryland® Resort Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2800 Opryland Drive 871-6848, www.gaylordopryland.com Irish. This Victorian-style Irish pub features entertainment most nights and a menu offering delicious Irish staples such as fish-n-chips, corned beef and Yorkshire pudding, plus a fine selection of drafts including GUINNESS® Extra Stout, Bass Pale Ale and Hard Core Cider. Located in Gaylord Opryland’s Magnolia section.

American. Burgers made from scratch: hand-pattied, American beef, never frozen, with all toppings freshly prepared daily. Hand-cut fries, twicecooked in 100% pure peanut oil. So good, it’s Zagat rated! Flyte World Dining & Wine Downtown 718 Division St. 255-6200, www.flytenashville.com American. Flyte World Dining and Wine is an elegant, comfortable fine dining environment which stimulates your passion and curiosity for great food, interesting wines, and finely crafted beers. General Jackson Showboat Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2812 Opryland Drive 458-3930, www.generaljackson.com American. Climb aboard for a unique dining and entertainment experience as this 300-foot paddlewheel riverboat cruises the Cumberland River offering fantastic shows and delicious meals.

11 a.m.-midnight.

Lunch and dinner cruises; call for schedule.

Five Guys Famous Burgers and Fries Green Hills 4017 Hillsboro Pike, Ste. 310 463-0022, www.fiveguys.com

Hard Rock Café Downtown 100 Broadway 742-9900, www.hardrock.com

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American. Hey, hard rockers - you know who you are - come on down and party like a rock star at the Hard Rock CafĂŠ in historic downtown Nashville where rock ‘n’ roll lives. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sun.-Thu.; 11 a.m.-midnight Fri.-Sat. Advertising Partner, p. 75 Harper’s Downtown 2610 Jefferson St. 329-1909 Southern. Located near Tennessee State University, Harper’s offers comfort food such as crispy fried chicken, mashed potatoes, turnip greens, yeast rolls and bowls of banana pudding. The soul food at this eatery is served up cafeteria-style in the Jefferson Street district. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat.-Sun. Hermitage House Smorgasbord Airport/Elm Hill Pike 3131 Lebanon Pike 883-9525 Southern/New Southern. Southernstyle buffet features a variety of salads, vegetables, entrees and desserts including their specialty, apple fritters. Family-owned and -operated, Hermitage House has been serving since 1975. 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Sun.-Sat.; 4-8 p.m. Mon.-Sat. Jack’s Bar-B-Que Downtown 416 Broadway 228-4600

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North Nashville 334 W. Trinity Lane 228-9888

that have made it a Southern landmark have remained unchanged for 50 years.

Barbecue. Proudly serving barbecue from “pit to plate� featuring the best recipe styles from Tennessee, Texas and St. Louis. Broadway location features the Nashville Room, perfect for private dining for up to 100 people. Call individual restaurant for hours. Jimmy Kelly’s West End/Vanderbilt 217 Louise Ave. 329-4349 Steak. This Nashville dining tradition has been impressing guests with its hospitality and great food since 1934. Located in a historic Victorian mansion. 5 p.m.-midnight Mon.-Sat. Loveless Cafe West Nashville 8400 Highway 100 646-9700 Southern/New Southern. Nationally acclaimed and frequented by celebrities, world travelers and local appetites alike. The quaint country charm and genuine country cooking

7 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun.-Sat. Closed Christmas Day. Advertising Partner, p. 76 Maggiano’s Little Italy West End/Vanderbilt 3106 West End Ave. 514-0270, 514-0271 www.maggianos.com Italian. There is an old Italian proverb that says, “At the table, no one grows old.� And so it is at Maggiano’s Little Italy. Time stands still when you share delicious food and drink, and good times with family and friends. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun.-Thu.; 11 a.m.11 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Reservations recommended. Credit Cards: Group capacity: 127. Martha’s at the Plantation West Nashville 5025 Harding Road 353-2828 www.marthasattheplantation.com

All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

Southern/New Southern. Creative cuisine at Belle Meade Plantation. Good, honest, fresh Southern food in a simple chic atmosphere, topped by gracious service, makes Martha’s a favorite for visitors and locals alike. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. daily. Merchants Downtown 401 Broadway, Corner of Fourth Avenue & Broadway 254-1892, 254-3012 www.merchantsrestaurant.com American. Located in the heart of downtown Nashville, The Merchants restaurant offers three floors of dining – first floor casual bar and grille; second floor fine dining with an intimate/ romantic atmosphere; third floor private group dining. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Mon.-Thu.; 11 a.m.12 a.m. Fri.-Sat.; 4-9 p.m. Sun. Reservations recommended. Credit Cards: Miro District Food & Drink West End/Vanderbilt 1922 Adelicia St. 320-1119, www.mirodistrictnashville.com

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Italian. Miro is located in Midtown area of Nashville, one block south of Broadway off 21st Avenue. In the late 18th century, Miro District was the territorial name for Nashville and its surrounding region. Decades later, in his short story In the Miro District, Peter Taylor depicted life in Nashville’s Acklen Park neighborhood as a “gentler world‌ known as the Miro District.â€? Today, in this very neighborhood, we bring to life this gentler world once more at Miro District Food & Drink, inspired by the flavors of Italy and the traditions of Tennessee. Miss Marple’s Dinner Theatre Downtown 162 Rosa L. Parks Blvd. 242-8000, www.missmarples.com American. A comedic mystery play with live music and a wonderful served dinner. Each table becomes a team to decipher clues, bribe suspects with their Miss Marple’s currency and try to solve the crime. The first team to solve the “whodunitâ€? wins a prize. Breakfast 8:30 a.m.-noon Tue.-Fri., Lunch 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tue.-Fri., Dinner show 7 p.m. Tue.-Fri. Reservations Credit Cards: required. Group capacity: 150. Morton’s – The Steakhouse Downtown 618 Church St. 259-4558, www.mortons.com Steak. Serving only the finest quality foods, featuring USDA prime-aged beef, fresh fish and seafood, hand-picked

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produce, delicious appetizers and elegant desserts. 5:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Mon.-Sat.; 5 p.m.£äĂŠ°Â“°ĂŠ-Ă•Â˜°Ă†ĂŠ ,ĂŠÂŁĂ“UĂ“ÂŁĂŠxĂŠ°Â“°ĂŠ`>ˆÂ?Ăž°ĂŠ Reservations recommended. Credit Cards: Nashville Nightlife Dinner Theatre Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2620 Music Valley Drive 885-4747, www.nashvillenightlife.com Dinner/Breakfast Theater. Experience a celebration of country music ... past and present ... while joining us for breakfast or dinner. Breakfast and dinner shows. Nashville Originals P.O. Box 120668, 37212 386-3940, www.nashvilleoriginals.com The association of independent restaurants. Nashville Palace Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2611 McGavock Pike 885-3004, www.nashvillepalace.net Dinner Theater. Enjoy dinner in the venue where country superstars Randy Travis and Ricky Van Shelton got started. Menu includes Palace Plates featuring fried chicken and ribs, plus our signature steaks. You never know who you’ll see at the world-famous Nashville Palace.

Barbecue. This is the famous barbecue family featured on the Food Network shows “Down Home With The Neely’s� and “Road Tasted With The Neely’s.� Located in Metro Center inside the Waterfront Plaza. The finest the world over. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Mon.-Thu.; 11 a.m.10 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Group reservations only. Credit Cards: New Orleans Manor Airport/Elm Hill Pike 1400 Murfreesboro Road 367-2777, www.neworleansmanor.com Seafood. Southern hospitality, superior cuisine, a great bottle of wine, stimulating conversation with friends in a beautiful setting – the New Orleans Manor experience. Old Hickory Steakhouse, Gaylord OprylandŽ Resort Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2800 Opryland Drive 871-6848, www.gaylordopryland.com Steak. Winner of the prestigious DiRoNA Award and the Wine Spectator Award, Old Hickory Steakhouse offers a widely varied menu - from signature certified Angus steaks to delectable seafood dishes. Inside the Delta Atrium surrounded by waterfalls and unparalleled vistas. Also serving an elegant afternoon tea.

1 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Thu.-Tue.; 11 a.m.2:30 a.m. Wed.

5-10 p.m. Sun.-Thu.; 4:30-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; Afternoon Tea: 2:30-4 p.m. Thu.-Sun.

Neely’s Barbecue North Nashville 2292 Rosa L. Parks Blvd. 251-8895, www.neelysbbq.com

Palm Restaurant Downtown 140 Fifth Ave. S. 742-7256, www.thepalm.com

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Restaurant 315, Doubletree Hotel Downtown 315 Fourth Ave. N. 244-8200, www.doubletree.com

Sambuca Downtown 601 12th Ave. S. 248-2888, www.sambucarestaurant.com

Lunch: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; Dinner: 3-11 p.m Mon.-Fri.; 5-11 p.m. Sat.; 5-10 p.m. Sun.

American. Located at the Doubletree Hotel. Buy a minimum of two entrees for dinner and receive free valet parking for the evening. Spend the night downtown enjoying dinner and the theater or a concert!

Continental. Dine, drink and dance the night away at Nashville’s premier supper club offering eclectic dining and live music nightly. Entrees include: mozzarella and prosciutto beignets, crab cakes with sun-dried tomato chips, and pan seared sea bass, just to name a few.

Pancake Pantry Hillsboro Village 1796 21st Ave. S. 383-9333 American. A Nashville tradition! Try a different breed of pancake at each visit. 6 a.m.-3 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 6 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat.-Sun. Paradise Park Trailer Resort Downtown 411 Broadway 251-1515 American. Nashville’s newest 24-hour restaurant and bar. Located on Lower Broadway, the bar is themed after a trailer park, and the 24-hour restaurant features homemade burgers, sandwiches and milkshakes. 24 hours daily. radius10 Downtown 1103 McGavock St. 259-5105, www.radius10.com American. Plan your next lunch, dinner, cocktail party or special event in our hip, contemporary space. Seating 150 guests inside, including an eye-catching bar, and 85 guests on our enclosed patio, radius10 is the place for your next special event! 5 p.m. Mon.-Sat. Credit Cards: Rainforest Café Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive Opry Mills Mall 514-3000, www.landryrestaurants.com Global. Escape to a tropical adventure full of exotic ambiance, cascading waterfalls, entertaining animatronic gorillas, trumpeting elephants and whimsical butterflies. Menu contains fresh seafood, crisp salads, delicious sandwiches and enticing entrees. End your journey with a Sparkling Volcano! 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Mon.-Thu.; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Fri.; 10:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Sat.; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun. Red Restaurant Downtown 1515 Church St. 329-2913, www.eatatred.com American. Cool, campy fun & a great casual meal with Nashville’s nicest outdoor patio. Located in the heart of the city’s Gay/Lesbian Entertainment District. Our Sunday “Pajama” Brunch Buffet with drag “hostess” Anita Gillette is a Nashville Smash Hit.

6 a.m.-10 p.m. daily. Rippy’s Downtown 429 Broadway 244-7477 Barbecue. Enjoy live country bands and great barbecue. 11 a.m.-2 a.m. daily. Ristorante Volare, Gaylord Opryland® Resort Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2800 Opryland Drive 871-6848, www.gaylordopryland.com Italian. Featuring an authentic Italian menu including traditional soups, freshly made pasta and fine Italian wines in Gaylord Opryland® Resort’s romantic Garden Conservatory. Stop in for veal marsala, parmesan-crusted swordfish or other favorites and try our signature tiramisu. Sundays feature an elaborate continental brunch ... voted “Best Brunch” in Nashville. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday brunch; 5-10 p.m. Sun.-Fri.; 5-11 p.m. Sat. Rusty’s Sports Bar, Gaylord Opryland® Resort Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2800 Opryland Drive 871-6848, www.gaylordopryland.com Sports Restaurant/Bar. A favorite for sports enthusiasts, grab a burger and some wings and cheer on your favorite team in this Gaylord Opryland® Resort hot spot designed to evoke the atmosphere of a legendary ballpark and featuring more than 20 televisions. Located between the Magnolia Lobby and the Tennessee Ballroom. 11 a.m.-midnight. Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse West End/Vanderbilt 2100 West End Ave. 320-0163, www.ruthschris.com Steak. When you visit us, you soon understand that this is no ordinary restaurant. From the U.S. Prime steaks, to the expertly executed seafood, New Orleans-inspired appetizers, unforgettable desserts and awardwinning wine list, this is the steak house to which others aspire. Private dining available for 10-75. 5 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Mon.-Sat.; 5 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Sun.

All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

DINING

Steak & Seafood. Aged prime steaks, jumbo Nova Scotia lobsters, Italian entrees, outstanding service and atmosphere like nowhere else!

11 a.m.-11 p.m. Mon.-Wed.; 11 a.m.midnight Thursdays; 4 p.m.-2 a.m. Fri.-Sat.; 4-11 p.m. Sundays. Santa Fe Cattle Co. Airport/Elm Hill Pike 5552 Old Hickory Blvd., Hermitage 843-3997 Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2520 Music Valley Drive 885-7852 Southwestern/Tex-Mex. Down-toearth American cuisine with a Southwest flair. Steaks are cooked over real hickory wood to your specifications. Featuring killer ribs and peanuts galore. Best of all, kids 10 and younger eat for $1.99. Tour groups welcome. 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Sun.-Thu.; 11 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. SoBro Grill Downtown 222 Fifth Ave. S. 416-2096 Southern/New Southern. SoBro Grill offers a contemporary spin on some of the greatest hits of Southern cuisine, using locally grown produce and madefrom-scratch recipes highlighted by live music. In the casual, sunlit atmosphere of the Curb Conservatory at the Country Music Hall of Fame ® and Museum. 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Sun.-Sat.; SoBro To-go: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun.-Sat. Sole Mio Downtown 311 Third Ave. S. 256-4013, www.solemionash.com Italian. Everything handmade. Over a decade in downtown Nashville. One block from the new symphony hall. Fresh pastas, chicken, veal and seafood specials. Voted tops in 25 categories by Citysearch. Private dining room available. Open Tue.-Sun., lunch and dinner. 11 a.m.-2:30 a.m. Tues.-Sat.; 4 p.m.-midnight Sun. South Street Original Crab Shack and Authentic Dive Bar West End/Vanderbilt 901 20th Ave. S. 320-5555, www.pansouth.net Southern/New Southern. South Street is the premier open-air restaurant and bar in Nashville. The atmosphere is laid

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back and inviting with roll-back glass doors for warm weather fun and a fireplace for cozying up in the winter. Walk up the steps to the newest addition, the Tree House Oyster Bar.

Private dining is available, as well as outdoor dining on our courtyard.

11 a.m.-2:30 a.m. Mon.-Sat.; 4 p.m.12 a.m. Sun. Reservations not accepted. Credit Cards: Sports Page Downtown 419 Union St. 251-9503, www.sportspageonunion.com American. Visit the Sports Page for lunch and enjoy one of the best burgers Nashville has to offer. Also, the second floor of the Sports Page is very private. It can accommodate 80 seated and up to 110 for standing reception. Making is our business, since 1982. 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Reservations recommended. Credit Cards: The Standard at the Smith House Downtown 167 Eighth Ave. N. 254-1277, www.thestandardnashville.com Southern/New Southern. The Standard is downtown in Nashville’s oldest remaining townhouse. The menu boasts uniquely Southern dishes that use fresh ingredients and change twice a season.

The Stock-Yard Restaurant Downtown 901 Second Ave. N. 255-6464, www.stock-yardrestaurant.com Steak. Named “One of the Top Ten Steakhouses in the U.S.,” The Stock-Yard has served Nashville proudly since 1979. Serving certified Angus beef, lobster, fresh seafood, ribs, chicken, pasta and more. Private dining rooms available, strolling balladeer. Complimentary shuttle service.

shakers, celebrities and people who just enjoy good, home-style Southern food. The dining spot has been owned by the same African-American family for more than 50 years. Two Rivers Grille, Nashville Marriott Airport/Elm Hill Pike 600 Marriott Drive 889-9300, www.marriott.com Continental. At the Nashville Airport Marriott, Two Rivers Grille features a contemporary menu of creative cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 6 a.m.-2 p.m., 5 p.m.-10 p.m. daily.

5-10 p.m. Mon.-Thu.; 5-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; 5-9 p.m. Sun. Reservations recommended. Credit Cards:

Wasabi’s, Gaylord Opryland® Resort Opryland Area/Music Valley Drive 2800 Opryland Drive 871-6848, www.gaylordhotels.com

Advertising Partner, this page

Sushi. Not only a tantalizing treat for the taste buds ... each plate is a miniature masterpiece! Choose from a variety of sushi rolls, nigiri sushi and sashimi, plus traditional sake, sake cocktails, plum wine and Japanese beer. Inside Gaylord Opryland® Resort’s Cascades Restaurant.

Swett’s Restaurant Downtown 2725 Clifton Ave. 329-4418, www.swettsrestaurant.com Downtown Nashville Farmers’ Market, 900 Eighth Ave. N. 742-0699 Southern. Since 1954, Swett’s Restaurant has been the gathering place for Nashville’s political movers and

Noon-9:30 p.m. Sun.-Thu.; noon-10:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Watermark Restaurant Downtown 507 12th Ave. S. 254-2000, www.watermarknashville.com American. Watermark Restaurant, an independent, fine dining restaurant in downtown Nashville, is recognized for its culinary excellence and warm, professional service. 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Mon.-Thur.; 5:30 p.m.-10 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; Bar opens at 5 p.m. Mon.-Sat. Reservations accepted. Wildhorse Saloon Downtown 120 Second Ave. N. 902-8211, www.wildhorsesaloon.com

46607

Barbecue. Enjoy delicious dining and learn the latest dance steps on the largest dance floor in town. The full menu showcases Southern and Southwestern taste sensations. It’s always a party at Wildhorse! 11 a.m.-12:30 a.m. Sun.-Thur.; 11 a.m.-2:45 a.m. Fri.-Sat. Zola West End/Vanderbilt 3001 West End Ave. 320-7778, www.restaurantzola.com Mediterranean. Nationally renowned, Zola’s is listed in City Magazine’s top 101 restaurants in America and was recently featured in Gourmet. Chef Debra Paquette infuses every bite with the right mix of flavors. 5:30-10 p.m. Mon.-Thu.; 5:30-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat.

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Dining By Area of Town These Nashville-area restaurants have been arranged by area of town. You can refer to the maps on pages 86-88 for more information.

Airport/Elm Hill Pike Hermitage House Smorgasbord . . . 77 New Orleans Manor . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Santa Fe Cattle Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Two Rivers Grille, Nashville Marriott . . 80

Downtown B.B. King’s Blues Club and Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Big River Grille and Brewing Works . . 74 Capitol Grille, Hermitage Hotel . . . . 75 Commerce Street Grill, Renaissance Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Demos’ Steak and Spaghetti House . . 76 Flyte World Dining & Wine . . . . . . . . 76 Hard Rock CafÊ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Harper’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Jack’s Bar-B-Que . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Merchants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Miss Marple’s Dinner Theatre . . . . . . 78 Morton’s – The Steakhouse . . . . . . . 78 Palm Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Paradise Park Trailer Resort . . . . . . . 79 radius10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Red Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Restaurant 315, Doubletree Hotel . . 79 Rippy’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Sambuca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 SoBro Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Sole Mio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Sports Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Standard at the Smith House . . The Stock-Yard Restaurant . . . . . . . . Swett’s Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Watermark Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . Wildhorse Saloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

80 80 80 80 80 80

Green Hills The Bluebird Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Copper Kettle CafÊ & Catering . . . . F. Scott’s Restaurant & Jazz Bar . . . . Five Guys Famous Burgers and Fries . .

74 75 76 76

Hillsboro Village Pancake Pantry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

North Nashville Chef’s Market CafÊ & Take Away . . . 75 Jack’s Bar-B-Que . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Neely’s Barbecue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Opryland Area/ Music Valley Drive The Aquarium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bob Evans Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . Caney Fork Fish Camp . . . . . . . . . . . Cascades Seafood Restaurant, Gaylord OprylandŽ Resort . . . . . . . . Cock of the Walk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dave & Buster’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

74 74 75 75 75 76

Findley’s Irish Pub, Gaylord OprylandŽ Resort . . . . . . . . General Jackson Showboat . . . . . . . Nashville Nightlife Dinner Theatre . . Nashville Palace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Old Hickory Steakhouse, Gaylord OprylandŽ Resort . . . . . . . . Rainforest CafÊ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ristorante Volare, Gaylord OprylandŽ Resort . . . . . . . . Rusty’s Sports Bar, Gaylord OprylandŽ Resort . . . . . . . . Santa Fe Cattle Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wasabi’s, Gaylord OprylandŽ Resort . .

76 76 78 78 78 79 79 79 79 80

West End/Vanderbilt The Acorn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bound’ry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . eat, the restaurant at Loews Vanderbilt . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jimmy Kelly’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Maggiano’s Little Italy . . . . . . . . . . . Miro District Food & Drink . . . . . . . . Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse . . . . . . . . . . South Street Original Crab Shack and Authentic Dive Bar . . . . . . . . . . . Zola . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

74 74 76 77 77 77 79 79 80

West Nashville Chaffin’s Barn Dinner Theatre . . . . . 75 Loveless Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Martha’s at the Plantation . . . . . . . . . 77

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Nightlife

Entertainment The sounds that echo from the many clubs in Music City hit all the right notes. Country, jazz, blues, rock and hip-hop can be heard in packed honky-tonks, techno-clubs and quiet listening rooms. In addition, the city boasts a nationally known symphony, opera company and professional ballet troupe.

www.visitmusiccity.com

Live Music Earth Friendly American Express Carte Blanche Diners Club Discover EnRoute Japanese Credit Bureau MasterCard Visa Food served Full service bar Beer Wine Cocktails No alcohol

A Tribute to the KING: Thru the Years 1953-1977 Texas Troubadour Theatre, 2416 Music Valley Drive 758-0098, (866) 811-2502 www.thenashvilleking.com Since 1999, this high-energy, live musical biography starring John Beardsley transports the audience through six eras of “The King’s” career. With more than 30 songs and five costume changes, this show thrills audiences of all ages. March-Nov., general admission seating 6:30 p.m. Mon. and Thu.; show 7 p.m. Box office opens at 10 a.m. day of show. Admission fee. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Complimentary admission for driver or escort. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 40. Group Capacity: 127. Advertising Partner, p. 27 B.B. King’s Blues Club and Restaurant 152 Second Ave. N. 256-2727, www.bbkingclubs.com Live music nightly showcasing special guests and regularly featured bands The B.B. King’s All Stars, The B.B. Kingsmen and Burning Las Vegas. Musical performances range from classic blues to smooth jazz to the powerful vocals of the Motown era. 11 a.m.-midnight Sun.; 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Mon.-Thu.; 11 a.m.-3 a.m. Fri.-Sat. The Big Bang 411 Broadway, Second Floor 747-5851, 747-5853 www.thebigbangbar.com The Big Bang is Nashville’s only allrequest, rock-n-roll dueling piano bar! In the heart of Honky-Tonk Row. You will have a blast! 7 p.m. Sun.-Thu.; 5 p.m. Fri.; 6 p.m. Sat. Admission fee. Minimum age: 21 Credit Cards:

Traditional Jazz and full menu available in the lounge with fabulous wine and beer. No cover charge.

One of Nashville’s best-loved live music venues, featuring up-and-coming artists as well as hit songwriters playing their own songs. It is a listening room and requires that people be quiet during the shows.

5:30-9 p.m. Sun.; 5:30-10 p.m. Mon.-Thu.; 5:30-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; Bar opens at 4:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Free. Credit Cards:

5:30-11 p.m. Mon.-Thu.; 5:30 p.m.12:30 a.m. Fri.-Sat.; 6-11 p.m. Sun. Most early shows are free, most late shows $10. Chaffin’s Barn Dinner Theatre 8204 Highway 100 646-9977, (800) 282-2276 www.dinnertheatre.com Nashville’s first professional theatre. Serving up great buffets and Broadway plays for more than 40 years. Evening buffet 6-7:30 p.m., show 8 p.m.; Sun. buffet noon-1:30 p.m., show 2 p.m. Admission fee. Credit Cards: Complimentary bus parking. Complimentary admission for driver or escort. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 12. Coyote Ugly Saloon 154 Second Ave. 254-8459 www.coyoteuglysaloon.com/nashville/ Coyote Ugly Saloon is a bar/restaurant in the heart of downtown Nashville and offers good food, great drink and some of the most unique entertainment for people of all ages. Dave & Buster’s 540 Opry Mills Drive 514-1202, www.daveandbusters.com Eat. Drink. Play. Create your own experience inside a world of entertainment where great food, signature drinks and one-of-a kind fun can be found under one enormous roof. Offering billiards, cosmic bowling and over 150 video and video-simulated games. Over 6,000 square feet is available for private events.

FUEL 114 Second Ave. S. 379-2120 FUEL is downtown Nashville’s headquarters for nightly live music from top local and national artists: rock, country, southern rock and more. Home to the region’s largest tequila bar, FUEL’s unique old-style garage theme and incredible staff make for a welcoming environment. 5 p.m.-3 a.m. Mon.-Fri.; 8 p.m.3 a.m. Sat. See schedule online. Cover charge varies. Grand Ole Opry 2802 Opryland Drive 871-OPRY, www.opry.com What began as a simple radio broadcast in 1925 is today a live-entertainment phenomenon dedicated to honoring country music’s rich history and dynamic present with a mix of country legends and the contemporary chart-toppers who have followed in their footsteps. Shows are at 8 p.m. on Fri., at 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. on Sat., and at 7 p.m. on Tue. (March through Dec.). Performs at the Ryman Auditorium Nov. through Feb.; Opry House March through Oct. Advertising Partner, p. 28 Grand Ole Opry House 2802 Opryland Drive 871-OPRY, www.opry.com Home to the world-famous Grand Ole Opry, this 4,400-seat theater is also the site of television specials, concerts and other events. Go online for an upcoming schedule of performances.

11 a.m.-midnight Sun.-Thu.; until 1 a.m. Fri.-Sat. Free.

Kenny and the Krooners Oldies Show P.O. Box 1490, 37116, Madison 585-2966, www.nashvilleoldies.com

Douglas Corner Café 2106 Eighth Ave. S. 298-1688, www.douglascorner.com

The mid-South’s most authentic oldies show, “Moments to Remember.” Get lost in the music of the ‘50s and ‘60s.

For more than 20 years, Douglas Corner has been one of Nashville’s premier live music and showcase venues. An industry haunt where established artists, songwriters and up-and-comers gather.

Layla’s Bluegrass Inn 418 Broadway 726-2799

6 p.m.-midnight Mon.-Sat. No cover for early show; average $5 for late show. F. Scott’s Restaurant & Jazz Bar 2210 Crestmoor Road 269-5861, www.fscotts.com

All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

NIGHTLIFE & ENTERTAINMENT

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The Bluebird Cafe 4104 Hillsboro Road 383-5308, www.bluebirdcafe.net

Part of “Honky Tonk Highway” (the clubs of Lower Broadway), Layla’s Bluegrass Inn is home to country, hillbilly, rockabilly, western, Americana, bluegrass, newgrass and many different styles appealing to music fans from all over the world.

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Legends Corner 428 Broadway 248-6334, www.legendscorner.com Part of “Honky Tonk Highway” (the clubs of Lower Broadway), Legends Corner features live music all day and night. Check out the vast collection of music memorabilia including instruments from around the world and hundreds of record albums on the wall. 11 a.m.-3 a.m. daily. No cover. Miss Marple’s Dinner Theatre 162 Rosa L. Parks Blvd. 242-8000, www.missmarples.com A comedic mystery play with live music and a wonderful served dinner. Each table becomes a team to decipher clues, bribe suspects with their Miss Marple’s currency and try to solve the crime. The first team to solve the “whodunit” wins a prize.

One of the city’s most popular dinner shows, Nashville Nightlife showcases “The Best of Country Music Show.” Enjoy songs made famous by legendary artists and today’s superstars. Guest star appearances include Tommy Cash, Steve Hall & Shotgun Red, plus Opry stars Jeannie Seely and Billy Walker. Dinner served 5:30 p.m.; show begins 6:30 p.m. Closed major holidays. Nashville Palace 2611 McGavock Pike 884-3004, www.nashvillepalace.net This is where Nashville country music superstars Randy Travis and Ricky Van Shelton got started. Located across from the Gaylord Opryland® Resort and Grand Ole Opry, you never know who you’ll see when you visit the world-

famous Nashville Palace. 1 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Thu.-Tue.; 11 a.m.-2:30 a.m. Wed. Play 1519 Church St. 322-9627, www.playdancebar.com This gay nightclub welcomes all crowds, and is Nashville’s only true dance club, with a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system. Ryman Auditorium 116 Fifth Ave. N. Reservations & Ticketing: 889-3060, Administrative Offices: 458-8700 www.ryman.com With exceptional acoustics and a unique atmosphere, the Ryman Auditorium attracts world-class artists, ranging from

Breakfast 8:30 a.m.-noon Tue.-Fri., Lunch 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tue.-Fri., Dinner show 7 p.m. Tue.-Fri. Admission fee. Credit Cards: Complimentary admission for driver or escort. Group rates available. Group Requirement: 30. Group Capacity: 150. Nashville Children’s Theatre 724 Second Ave. S. 254-9103 www.nashvillechildrenstheatre.org Featuring an ensemble of professional artists who bring unique vision and compelling voice to the creation of meaningful theatre for young patrons. 2009 shows include: The Giver, Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse, Still Life with Iris and The Fisherman and His Wife. Showtimes vary, call for details. Nashville Crossroads 419 Broadway 313-8012 Situated in the midst of “Honky Tonk Highway,” Nashville Crossroads features large-screen televisions, pool and live country music ... with an attitude! Hot new writers appear on Tuesdays to showcase their latest works. 2 p.m.-2 a.m. daily Nashville Municipal Auditorium 417 Fourth Ave. N. 862-6390, www.nashville.gov/ma Built in 1962, this centrally located downtown facility hosts a variety of concerts, family shows and trade shows. Everyone from rock icons to rodeo cowboys has performed in this 9,654-seat arena. See the Web site for an event schedule. Box office: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Nashville Nightlife Dinner Theater 2620 Music Valley Drive 885-4788, www.nashvillenightlife.com

|

84 Nashville Group Travel Planner

Fun & Free In today’s economy, who can resist a bargain? Nashville offers many options to expand your itinerary without spending an extra cent! Museums, historic sites, walking tours, gardens, art exhibits and even live music are all available at no charge. Art lovers will marvel at the stunning collections at Fisk and Vanderbilt universities. The Carl Van Vechten Galley at Fisk University features works by Pablo Picasso, Paul Cezanne, Claude Monet and Vincent Van Gogh. Vanderbilt’s Fine Arts Gallery just added 150 photographs and prints by Andy Warhol. For history buffs, numerous attractions including forts, the Tennessee State Museum, State Capitol and the Civil Rights Room at the downtown Nashville Public Library all tell the story of the area’s struggles and triumphs from its earliest days well into the 20th century. Of course, no trip is complete without experiencing the city’s worldfamous music scene. Discover the history behind this American art form by visiting Hatch Show Print and the Grand Ole Opry Museum, and then hit the town at night. Several clubs offer live music without a cover charge. For more information on extending your stay for no extra pay, go online to www.visitimusiccity.com.

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Tennessee Repertory Theatre and TPAC Presents Concert Series.

2 p.m.-3 a.m. daily.

Box office: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri.

Sommet Center 501 Broadway 770-2309, www.sommetcenter.com

Tootsies Orchid Lounge 422 Broadway 726-0463, www.tootsies.net

11 a.m.-11 p.m. Mon.-Wed.; 11 a.m.midnight Thursdays; 4 p.m.-2 a.m. Fri.-Sat.; 4-11 p.m. Sundays.

The home of the NHL Nashville Predators is also the site of blockbuster events and headline concerts. Hannah Montana, Keith Urban, The Blue Man Group and Harlem Globetrotters are just a few of the recent headliners including the Sommet Center on their tour schedule. Call or go online for a schedule of upcoming events.

The cornerstone of “Honky Tonk Highway,� Tootsies is an original. Willie Nelson got his first songwriting job after singing here. Mel Tillis, Patsy Cline and Kris Kristofferson were among early patrons. Today, guests enjoy the same spirit while listening to talented singers and songwriters.

Schermerhorn Symphony Center One Symphony Place 687-6500, www.nashvillesymphony.org

The Stage on Broadway 412 Broadway 726-0504, www.thestageonbroadway.com

Opened in the fall of 2006, this incredible performance venue is among the best acoustically in the world. Located in the SoBro district, the Schermerhorn completes a quadrangle of downtown entertainment venues and is home base for the internationally renowned Nashville Symphony.

Part of “Honky Tonk Highway,� The Stage features a western look with a musical soul. A large mural of Willie, Waylon, Hank, Cash and Merle covers the wall. Unique guitars hang over the bar. Live music daily open to close.

country superstars and legends such as Keith Urban and Merle Haggard to the greats of rock, pop, R&B, and jazz such as Etta James, Sheryl Crow, Annie Lennox and John Mayer. Evening showtimes vary. Sambuca 601 12th Ave. S. 248-2888, www.sambucarestaurant.com Dine and dance the night away at Nashville’s premier supper club offering eclectic dining and live music nightly.

Free.

2 p.m.-3 a.m. Sun.-Thu.; 11 a.m.-3 a.m. Fri.-Sat.

Credit Cards:

Group rates available. The Second Fiddle 420 Broadway 252-4818 Part of “Honky Tonk Highway,� the Second Fiddle features memorabilia tracing the history of country music, walls that pay homage to the Grand Ole Opry and dozens of radios all tuned to AM 650 WSM. Join all your

Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC) 505 Deaderick St. 782-4028, www.tpac.org The Tennessee Performing Arts Center’s three theaters are designed for events ranging from major musicals to corporate meetings to acoustic performances. TPAC is home to the HCA/TriStar Broadway at TPAC Series, Nashville Ballet, Nashville Opera,

All area codes are (615) unless otherwise noted.

10 a.m.-2 a.m. daily. Free. Minimum age: Credit Cards: 21 Tribe 1517 Church St. 329-2912, www.tribenashville.com Hip Music Video Bar in the heart of Nashville’s Gay/Lesbian entertainment district. Voted Nashville’s “Best Martini, Best Bartenders, & Best Gay Bar� by the Nashville Scene, Tribe’s “everybody friendly� attitude always draws a diverse and fun crowd. And it’s just next door to Play Dance Bar. Wildhorse Saloon 120 Second Ave. N. 902-8211, www.wildhorsesaloon.com This famous hot spot features three floors of fun. Hear the hottest bands, enjoy delicious dining and learn the latest dance steps on the largest dance floor in town. With five bars under one roof, it’s always a party at the Wildhorse. 11 a.m.-2 a.m. daily.

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C U M B E R L A N D

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Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center

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8t h

PEABODY ST

TO: I-40 E/W

Hop aboard the

trolley

See downtown from a local’s point of view. Tickets can be purchased at the Trolley Ticket Booth located on Second Avenue beside Hard Rock Cafe

www.graylinenashville.com

MAP PUBLISHED BY

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88 Nashville Group Travel Planner

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

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