Nashville
We went to Nashville, Tennessee — known as the “country music capital” — two years in a row around Christmastime: in 2007 and 2008. We hadn’t planned on the second trip, but the first one sold us. It was a 3-hour drive from Louisville, Kentucky — our home at the time and currently.
MUST-SEE
1. Gaylord Opryland Resort. This grand, fantasy-like hotel is an experience in itself. Sections of it are filled with luscious greenery like a giant greenhouse, and others boast colorful flowers. Yet another shows off magnificent fountains that even perform shows with music and light. Restaurants and shops can provide hours of fun. Take an indoor tour by riding a boat down the man-made river that winds through the resort. Take a dip in the indoor pool. Or, just get an atrium-facing room, sit on your balcony, and gaze out at the one-of-a-kind Christmas decorations hanging from the ceiling. There’s visual and aural stimulation in every inch of the hotel, from floor to ceiling. Free shuttle bus rides take guests to nearby attractions and shows, including ICE! The theme of the multi-room spectacular ice sculpture display the years we went was How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Just prepare to freeze, even with the thick coats you’re given at the entrance.
2. Country Music Hall of Fame. The multi-story museum has so much related to country music, it’s almost overwhelming. You’ll learn names you never knew were part of the genre!
3. Parthenon. Named after the famed Greek structure it was modeled after, the Parthenon in Nashville is also an architectural marvel to behold. The one in Nashville sits in peaceful Centennial Park and serves as an art museum, filled with impressive sculptures, paintings, and more.
4. Grand Ole Opry. The famous stage where stars are made (or where stars perform). Unfortunately, both times we went, the main part was closed, so all we got to see was the gift shop. So, go when the place is open.
5. Ryman Auditorium. The smaller performance hall that also has been home to country music superstars, the Ryman Auditorium is usually open when the Grand Ole Opry isn’t.
6. Belle Meade Plantation. We went on a tour of this peaceful, historical home. Living in Louisville, it was especially interesting to learn about all the Kentucky Derby horses that came from or can be traced back through the generations to Belle Meade Plantation.
Other points of interest include downtown Nashville, prestigious Vanderbilt University, and beautiful Belmont University. Also, stroll through, eat, and shop in the neighborhoods of upscale Green Hills and quaint HillsboroVillage.



































