16 Things to Do in Nashville this Summer (2025)
A Guide to the Best Summer Activities, Events, and Must-See Spots in Nashville
If you're planning a visit and looking for the best things to do in Nashville this summer, you’re in the right place! Whether you’re in town for a weekend getaway or planning to kick back and stay awhile, Nashville has plenty to offer in the Summer of 2025 to fill your schedule.
From can’t-miss festivals to laid-back local experiences, these are the must do things in Nashville, Tennessee this season.
1. CMA Fest – June 5–8, 2025
CMA Fest is one of the biggest country music events in the world, and features four full days of live music, artist meet-and-greets, and unforgettable performances. This is a country music fan’s dream come true! Taking place from Thursday, June 5, to Sunday, June 8, CMA Fest 2025 will feature massively popular artists like Jason Aldean, Keith Urban, and Rascal Flatts, alongside newer up-and-comers. Events take place at Nissan Stadium and various other downtown venues.
Pro Tip: CMA Fest 2025 is likely to sell out. We suggest booking tickets soon before it's too late!
2. Let Freedom Sing! – 4th of July in Downtown Nashville
Nashville’s Independence Day Celebration is not one to be missed! This event is FREE to attend, and fun for the whole family. In 2025, the “Let Freedom Sing!” celebration will be headlined by country music superstar Dierks Bentley, and will also feature performances by Russell Dickerson, Niko Moon, Grace Bowers, and other performers. This is all capped off by one of the largest fireworks displays in the country!
This is easily one of the top activities in Nashville during the summer. View the full schedule here.
3. Beer, BBQ, & Bourbon Tour: Explore Local Spirits and Southern Flavors
Looking for a fun and casual way to experience the best of Music City? The Beer, BBQ, and Bourbon Tour is one of the most memorable things to do in Nashville, Tennessee for food and drink lovers. Guests get to tour and sample whiskey from one of Nashville’s best distilleries, partake in a delicious BBQ meal, and enjoy a craft beer flight from a local-favorite brewery. This Nashville tour is perfect whether you are travelling alone, as a couple, or with a large group.
4. Check Out the Rooftop Bars and Live Music Spots
Summer nights in Nashville were made for rooftop bars and live music—and this city has no shortage of either. If you're looking for a laid-back way to take in the skyline, start with a drink at one of downtown’s best rooftop spots. Acme Feed & Seed offers great views of Broadway with live music on multiple levels. For something a little more upscale, check out L27 at The Westin or White Limozeen, the Dolly Parton–themed rooftop at the Graduate Hotel that’s equal parts quirky and glam.
Pro Tip: We recommend going in the early evening so you can catch that golden hour glow before the crowds roll in. It’s the perfect way to kick off a night out or wind down after a busy day of sightseeing.
Once the sun sets, head to one of Nashville’s beloved live music venues. The Listening Room is a go-to for acoustic sets and original songwriting (grab tickets in advance—it fills up). Station Inn is where you’ll find some of the best bluegrass in town, and 3rd & Lindsley has hosted everyone from local legends to big-name touring acts. No matter your taste, there's always a good show happening somewhere.
Whether you’re here for the cocktails, the tunes, or both, this combo is easily one of the must do things in Nashville—especially in the summertime.
5. Experience Coldplay Live at Nissan Stadium – July 22, 2025
Mark your calendar for Tuesday, July 22, 2025, when Coldplay brings their Music of the Spheres World Tour to Nissan Stadium. In this one-night-only event, expect to hear iconic hits like "Viva La Vida," "Yellow," and "Fix You," along with new tracks from Moon Music, such as the recently released "We Pray." This is going to be one of the hottest concert tickets in Nashville this summer!
6. Catch a Game or Concert at GEODIS Park or Bridgestone Arena
GEODIS Park is home to Nashville SC, Nashville’s pro soccer club. They will have home games all throughout the summer, with ticket prices as low as about $25. Cheering on Nashville SC is a fun outing for the whole family!
Bridgestone Arena is home to the Nashville Predators NHL team, and, while hockey season may be over, there are still events to check out at Bridgestone! This summer’s concert lineup at Bridgestone includes performances from Incubus, Ghost, Jason Aldean, and Lincoln Park, as well as a WWE Smackdown event, a UFC Fight Night, and the Music City Rodeo!
7. Picnic or Paddle: Easy Outdoor Fun in the Heart of Nashville
If you’re looking for a little breather between meals, shows, and tours, Nashville has some great spots to slow things down without leaving the city.
Centennial Park is always a solid pick. Just a few minutes from downtown, it’s home to the full-scale Parthenon (yep, really), plenty of shaded spots to throw down a picnic blanket, and walking paths if you want to stretch your legs. It’s one of those “do-nothing-but-still-doing-something” kind of places, and it hits just right on a sunny afternoon.
Want to get on the water instead? River Queen Voyages offers kayaking and paddleboarding trips on the Cumberland River that are equal parts chill and scenic. You’ll paddle past downtown’s skyline, cruise under the bridges, and see Nashville from a totally different perspective.
They’ve got a few different options, depending on your vibe:
The Skyline Route is their most popular—an easy 3-mile paddle from Shelby Park to downtown.
The Out & Back tour lets you launch and return from the same spot at River Queen HQ (great if you’re short on time).
Or, if you want something more interactive, check out the Kayak Scavenger Hunt—part paddling, part clue-solving, all fun.
And if you’d rather sit back with a drink in hand, their Pedal Pontoon boat cruise is a good time. No pedaling required (unless you’re feeling ambitious), and it’s BYOB. You’ll cruise the river with skyline views, music, and a laid-back crew. It’s perfect for groups, bachelorette parties, or anyone who just wants to kick back and enjoy the water.
8. Take a Day Trip to Jack Daniel’s & Uncle Nearest Distilleries
Nothing embodies the Tennessee spirit more than Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey. The Jack Daniel Distillery is an iconic part of Tennessee history, and many Nashville visitors wish to make the pilgrimage as part of their stay. The Jack Daniel Distillery Tour lasts about an hour and forty-five minutes, and includes a guided whiskey tasting.
The distillery is located in Lynchburg, TN, about a 90-minute drive from Nashville. While the drive is pleasant, we recommend booking tickets with a bus tour company. Ride share apps aren’t really an option to get from Nashville to Lynchburg.
Another iconic Tennessee distillery worth visiting is Nearest Green, producer of the award-winning lineup of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskies. Not only does the Nearest Green distillery produce some amazing whiskey, they have incredible history that is deeply connected to the story of Jack Daniel’s. We also recommend booking a bus tour from Nashville to Uncle Nearest.
Pro-tip: You’ll actually pass Nearest Green on the way to Lynchburg, so many visitors choose to tour both back-to-back. You can actually book a bus tour that takes you to both as well!
9. Day Trip Ideas: Franklin, Arrington Vineyards, and More
If you're looking to slow things down a bit, a day trip just outside the city might be exactly what you need. Downtown Franklin is less than 40 minutes from Nashville and packed with small-town charm—think historic streets, boutique shops, and cozy restaurants. It’s a laid-back alternative to the busy Broadway scene.
Just a little further out, Arrington Vineyards offers wine tastings with incredible views of the Tennessee countryside. Bring a blanket, grab a bottle, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the lawn. You’ll also find no shortage of scenic drives through the rolling hills, especially if you head south toward Leiper’s Fork or along the Natchez Trace.
These quick escapes are perfect for when you want a breather from the crowds but still want to make the most of your time in Middle Tennessee.
10. Stroll and Shop at 12South
If you're up for a relaxed afternoon that still checks all the Nashville boxes, 12South is a great spot to explore. This walkable neighborhood has a laid-back vibe and is full of local flavor—think indie boutiques, casual cafes, and front porch charm.
Pop into shops like White’s Mercantile, Imogene + Willie, and Serendipity for everything from denim to gifts to home goods. Need a pick-me-up? Frothy Monkey is a local favorite for coffee, and on hot days, Las Paletas serves some of the best popsicles in town.
It’s an easygoing part of the city that feels a little more local—and a lot less hectic—making it one of those must-do things in Nashville for visitors who want to see a different side of town.
11. Make the Trip to Bonnaroo 2025
If you're in Nashville this June and want to check out one of the country’s biggest music festivals, Bonnaroo is just down the road. Held in Manchester, TN (about an hour from downtown), Bonnaroo 2025 is set for June 12–15 and the lineup is stacked—Olivia Rodrigo, Tyler, The Creator, Luke Combs, Hozier, and more.
You can grab a one-day pass or go all-in for the weekend. Either way, it’s a high-energy mix of music, art, and late-night sets that’s totally worth the drive. It’s not technically in Nashville, but if you’re looking for can’t-miss summer plans, this one should be on your radar.
12. Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame
Yes, it’s air-conditioned. Yes, it’s massive. And yes, it’s worth every minute—even if you're not a hardcore country fan. The Country Music Hall of Fame is one of the top things to do in Nashville, Tennessee, especially in the summer when you need a break from the heat. Check out the rotating exhibits, see Elvis’s gold Cadillac, and learn how the city earned its nickname.
13. Cruise the Cumberland on the General Jackson Showboat
Looking for something a little different from your usual Nashville tour? The General Jackson Showboat delivers big-time charm. This classic riverboat glides down the Cumberland River with live music, Southern-style meals, and some of the best skyline views around.
You can book a midday cruise or go for an evening trip if you want dinner and live entertainment under the stars. Either way, it’s a laid-back way to take in the city—and a solid pick for folks who want a mix of sightseeing, music, and something that feels uniquely Nashville.
14. Spend a Summer Day at the Nashville Farmers’ Market
If you're looking for one of the most laid-back and local things to do in Nashville, don’t skip the Nashville Farmers’ Market. It’s open year-round, but in the summer, the place is packed with fresh produce, local makers, and food vendors serving up everything from cold brew to hot chicken.
It’s a great way to get a taste of the city—literally. Grab lunch from one of the Market House restaurants, shop for handmade goods, or just stroll through the open-air farm sheds with a cold drink in hand.
And here’s a bonus: It’s right next to Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, where you’ll find walking trails, fountains, and one of the best views of the Tennessee State Capitol. It’s one of those must-do things in Nashville if you want to blend sightseeing with a little shopping, snacking, and sunshine.
15. Explore (and Sample) Local Nashville Distilleries
If you’re all about finding authentic, can’t-miss things to do in Nashville, this one’s for you. The Tennessee Whiskey Experience is a small-group bus tour that takes you behind the scenes at three local distilleries on the Tennessee Whiskey Trail—right here in the greater Nashville area.
You’ll get guided tastings at every stop (more than most tours in Nashville offer), hear the stories behind the spirits, and enjoy a midday lunch break at a solid local spot. The whole thing runs about six hours, and transportation and distillery tours/tastings are covered, so you can sip stress-free.
Whether you’re a longtime whiskey fan or just curious to try something new, this is one of the most laid-back and flavorful activities in Nashville. Bonus: it runs Fridays and Saturdays, so it’s easy to fit into your weekend plans.
16. Go Honky-Tonking on Broadway (But Smartly)
When it comes to must do things in Nashville, Broadway is the classic. The neon lights, live music pouring out of every door, and dance floors full of cowboy boots—it’s wild, it’s loud, and it’s pure Nashville.
But here’s the move: go earlier in the day. You’ll still catch top-tier live bands without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds. Want something a little more low-key? Wander over to Printer’s Alley or Midtown, where the vibes are just as good but a bit more relaxed.
Whether you’re bar-hopping or just there for the people-watching, Broadway is a bucket-list stop among all the activities in Nashville Tennessee—just time it right.
Wrap-Up: Summer 2025 Is the Perfect Time to Explore Nashville
There’s no shortage of things to do in Nashville this summer—whether you’re catching a show, sipping local whiskey, paddling the river, or just hanging out in a city park with good food and even better views. From high-energy festivals to chill day trips and everything in between, Music City is packed with ways to make the most of the season.
A quick tip? Book your favorite Nashville tours early—especially the ones with limited spots—and don’t forget the sunscreen. Summer in Tennessee can bring the heat, but there are plenty of cool stops (and cold drinks) along the way.
Whether you're here for the music, the food, or the local flavor, these must do things in Nashville make it easy to build the perfect summer itinerary. Let the good times roll.
Frequently Asked Questions About Summer in Nashville
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Nashville summer highlights include live music events, festivals like CMA Fest and Bonnaroo, rooftop bars, local distillery tours, paddleboarding on the Cumberland River, and exploring neighborhoods like 12South and East Nashville.
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Yes! Easy summer day trips from Nashville include visiting historic Franklin, wine tasting at Arrington Vineyards, or heading out to Lynchburg and Shelbyville for Tennessee whiskey tours.
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Some of the best Nashville tours this summer include the Jack Daniel’s Distillery Tour, the Uncle Nearest Tour, the Tennessee Whiskey Experience, and the Beer, BBQ & Bourbon Tour.
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Nashville summers are warm and humid, but totally manageable with a little planning. Many attractions and activities in Nashville offer indoor or shaded options, and it’s easy to cool off with a cold drink at a rooftop bar or catch a show indoors.
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Don’t miss a stroll down Broadway (go earlier to avoid the crowds), a guided whiskey tour, hot chicken, and live music—whether it’s at the Bluebird Café or a backyard set in East Nashville.
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Check out shaded city parks like Centennial Park or Bicentennial Mall, enjoy river activities with River Queen Voyages, or book an air-conditioned bus tour like the Tennessee Whiskey Experience.