Kicking Off Summer Vacation in Nashville, Tennessee

Our family's summer vacation began with an exciting trip to Nashville, Tennessee, marking the first leg of our travel plans for the year. This summer promises to be a busy one, with travel scheduled through August. Starting in Nashville was an intriguing choice, given the amount of walking we planned to do. Despite the bustling itinerary, we aimed to balance exploration with relaxation, especially since I had to work for part of our stay.

Exploring Vanderbilt University and Local Parks

We stayed near Vanderbilt University, which turned out to be a fantastic decision. The area is vibrant and full of life, with plenty of parks to explore. One of our most delightful discoveries was the Parthenon in Centennial Park. This exact replica of the original Parthenon in Athens was an unexpected find and a must-visit for me, given my long-standing interest in mythology and ancient history.

Enjoying the Local Cuisine and Music

Evenings in Nashville were reserved for indulging in the local cuisine and soaking up the vibrant music scene. Nashville's culinary offerings did not disappoint, with a variety of delicious meals that kept our taste buds entertained. Of course, no visit to Nashville is complete without experiencing its famous music scene. We spent a couple of nights on Broadway, where we enjoyed live music at several venues. The atmosphere was electric, and the music was fantastic, making these nights some of the highlights of our trip.

Shopping and Solo Adventures

While I was busy working during the day, the rest of the family had ample opportunity to explore on their own. They spent a good deal of time shopping, taking advantage of the many stores and boutiques in the area, including Draper James which is from a famous actress that the family enjoys. It was great for them to have some independence and enjoy different parts of the city at their own pace.

A Cultural Visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame

Despite my limited knowledge of country music, a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame was on our itinerary. It turned out to be a fascinating experience. The museum is rich with history and showcases the evolution of country music through the decades. Even for someone not deeply familiar with the genre, it was an engaging and educational visit that added a cultural dimension to our trip.

Reflecting on Our Time in Nashville

Our time in Nashville was a fantastic way to kick off our summer vacation. The combination of parks, food, music, and cultural sites provided something for everyone in the family to enjoy. It set a positive tone for the rest of our travels and left us with wonderful memories of this vibrant city.

Nashville, Tennessee, with its mix of outdoor activities, rich musical heritage, and warm Southern hospitality, proved to be an ideal start to our summer adventures. We look forward to the rest of our travels, but Nashville will always hold a special place as the beginning of our summer journey.