Looking for the perfect group outing in Nashville? The options stretch far beyond the typical tourist spots. Picture yourself pedaling through downtown with 14 friends on a bar bike tour, or soaring 80 feet high on thrilling ziplines at Adventure Park. Music City knows how to keep groups of any size entertained.
Sure, the Country Music Hall of Fame's impressive collection of 2.5 million artifacts draws crowds year-round. But locals know Nashville offers so much more. You'll find everything from competitive scavenger hunts through historic neighborhoods to guided food tours exploring hidden culinary gems.
Below, you'll discover over 25 group activities (organized by activity type) that Nashville locals love — each one promising an authentic slice of Music City magic.
Music & Shows
You'll find music from over 180 performance venues across Nashville every single day of the year. The city's musical heartbeat ranges from cozy songwriter rounds in dim-lit rooms to magnificent symphony performances that fill grand halls.
Ryman Auditorium
Ever wonder where country music found its soul? Look no further than the historic Ryman Auditorium. Since 1892, this former church has witnessed performances that shaped American music history. Groups can peek behind the curtain with guided backstage tours or catch performances from today's top artists across every genre imaginable.
The Station Inn
Want to experience Nashville's authentic bluegrass scene? The Station Inn, tucked away in the Gulch since 1974, delivers pure musical magic. Sunday nights come alive with their world-famous bluegrass jam session, drawing Nashville's finest musicians to the stage. Simple picnic tables and basic amenities keep the focus where it belongs — on the incredible music.
Downtown Nashville’s Music Scene
Here's the best part for budget-conscious groups — Broadway's famous strip offers free live music from sunrise to last call. The tunes start flowing at 10 AM and keep going until 3 AM, with honky-tonks packed shoulder-to-shoulder down both sides of the street. Just around the corner, SoBro and 2nd Avenue serve up blues, rock 'n' roll, and everything in between — all without cover charges.
Classical music lovers will find their paradise at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. The massive Bridgestone Arena draws country music's biggest stars, with Cody Johnson and Billy Strings lighting up the stage in upcoming shows. Meanwhile, the intimate Bluebird Cafe lets groups witness Nashville's next stars during their famous songwriter rounds. TPAC (Tennessee Performing Arts Center) delivers authentic Nashville experiences through Broadway shows and world-class musicians.
Looking for something different? East Nashville's underground scene pulses with soul, funk, R&B, and blues — perfect for groups wanting to venture beyond traditional country.
Drinking
Nashville's drinking scene brings together historic wineries and modern distilleries, each offering unique ways for groups to explore local spirits. You'll find everything from bourbon tastings in century-old mansions to moonshine samples in contemporary tasting rooms.
Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery
Belle Meade stands proud as Nashville's first and oldest winery, blending historical charm with premium wine experiences. Wine enthusiasts can sample from more than 16 different varieties, perfect for both sweet and dry wine lovers. The venue's seasonal food pairings add an extra touch of elegance with gourmet hors d'oeuvres.
Looking to dive deeper into spirits? Their Bourbon Experience takes you through the fascinating world of bourbon history with expert-guided tastings.
Ole Smoky Distillery
Tucked away at 6th & Peabody, Ole Smoky Distillery teams up with YeeHaw Brewing Company to create something special. Here's what you'll find in their tasting experiences:
The fun doesn't stop at tastings. Groups can join guided distillery tours, catch live music, or challenge each other to cornhole and ping pong in their spacious beer garden. Hungry? White Duck Tacos and Nashville's Daddy's Dogs have you covered right on site.
Downtown Nashville
The heart of Nashville pulses with energy through its pub crawls and bar scenes. Starting at $25 per person, pub crawls unlock exclusive drink specials and front-of-line access at popular spots. Each stop weaves in fascinating bits of Nashville history while leading you to the city's best live music venues.
Want to craft your own adventure? Private crawls let you design a unique path through Nashville's diverse drinking spots. From classic honky-tonks to sleek cocktail lounges, downtown accommodates groups of all sizes and tastes.
Tennessee Legend Distillery
Tennessee Legend Distillery captures mountain spirit in every bottle. Stop by for complimentary tastings of their award-winning creations, including their famous White Lightning moonshine and Salted Caramel whiskey. You'll learn about the distillery's mountain heritage while sampling their unique flavors.
The moment you walk in, you're treated like family. Their passionate staff shares captivating stories about Smoky Mountain distilling traditions while guiding you through each tasting. The laid-back atmosphere makes everyone feel right at home.
Tours & Museums
Ever wonder where country music's greatest hits were born? Or where a president once walked the halls? Nashville's museums and historic tours bring these stories to life. From legendary recording studios to sprawling presidential estates, you'll find group experiences that blend entertainment with fascinating history.
Gaylord Opryland Garden Observatory
Picture walking through nine acres of lush indoor paradise. The Garden Observatory houses 50,000 tropical plants and rare blooms from around the world. Mother Nature gets a helping hand here — the climate stays perfect between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit all year long. A clever drip-irrigation system keeps every exotic plant thriving in this indoor oasis.
Andrew Jackson's Hermitage
The Hermitage isn't just another historic home — it's America's most visited presidential estate, welcoming 200,000 visitors each year. Spread across 1,120 acres, this National Historic Landmark preserves over 30 historic buildings. You'll explore Jackson's mansion, filled with hundreds of his original belongings. The site tells Jackson's complete story, examining both his achievements and controversial decisions.
RCA Studio B
They call it Nashville's "Temple of Sound" for good reason. This historic studio has produced over 35,000 songs and more than 1,000 hits. The walls here have witnessed magic:
- Elvis Presley recorded 262+ songs here
- Dolly Parton and Roy Orbison created their hits
- Modern stars like Martina McBride and Carrie Underwood keep the legacy alive
Lane Motor Museum
Car enthusiasts, you're in for a treat. Lane Motor Museum doesn't just display vehicles — every single exhibit stays in running condition. Housed in the old Sunbeam Bakery, this unique space marries preservation with education. Don't miss their latest exhibit, "Station Wagon Style: Family Movers from Around the World," running through March 17, 2025.
Musician's Hall of Fame
Ready to sing backup for Ray Charles? This one-of-a-kind museum celebrates the talented musicians behind legendary recordings across all genres. Step into the GRAMMY Museum Gallery to mix your own music or join Ray in the booth. Perfect for groups from 50 to 2,000 people.
Country Music Hall of Fame
With 2.5 million artifacts, this musical treasure trove stands among the world's largest music research centers. The sacred Rotunda displays plaques honoring country music's legends. Walk through the "Sing Me Back Home" exhibit to trace country music's evolution and peek into the lives of its biggest stars.
Looking for a deeper dive? The museum offers special packages combining tours with hands-on activities. Student groups get extra perks like free performances with admission. Teachers can even join professional development workshops to enhance school visits.
Outdoor & Active Activities
Ready to escape the neon lights and honky-tonks? Nashville's outdoor scene offers breathtaking adventures that blend natural beauty with historic charm. Whether you're seeking peaceful garden strolls or heart-pumping zipline thrills, you'll find group experiences that create lasting memories.
Nashville Parthenon
Who needs a trip to Greece when you have this architectural marvel right in Centennial Park? This full-scale replica of the ancient Parthenon doubles as an art museum and historic landmark. Your group can trace 2,500 years of architectural evolution through guided tours, witnessing the structure's remarkable journey from Greek temple to Christian church to Ottoman mosque.
Love architecture or wildlife? Join their specialized tours every first Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, paired with nature walks showcasing the park's diverse creatures.
Cheekwood Historic Estate
Spread across 55 magnificent acres, Cheekwood Estate proves that gardens and art belong together. You'll discover:
- 13 stunning gardens, including the serene Blevins Japanese Garden
- A winding 1.5-mile woodland trail dotted with modern sculptures
- A sprawling 30,000-square-foot Mansion filled with period rooms
- Vibrant seasonal festivals throughout the year
AdventureWorks
Craving an adrenaline rush? Head to Whites Creek, where AdventureWorks sends groups soaring through the trees. Their course features eight ziplines stretching up to 1,000 feet and reaching heights of 80 feet. Each 90-minute adventure welcomes thrill-seekers aged eight and up, with a weight range of 50 to 250 pounds. No wonder they've earned national recognition for experience-based adventure since 1987.
Pontoon Saloon
Want to see Nashville from a fresh angle? This 50-foot party barge cruises the Cumberland River in style. You'll find everything needed for a perfect voyage: licensed Captain and Deckhand, pumping sound system, clean restrooms, and ice-filled coolers. Private events can host up to 47 passengers, while public cruises offer intimate experiences for groups of 1-16 seeking guided river fun.
Games & Other Fun Activities
Looking for friendly competition and endless laughs? Nashville's indoor gaming venues turn ordinary group outings into unforgettable adventures. From living out your game show dreams to throwing axes like a lumberjack, these spots guarantee memorable experiences for groups of any size.
Pins Mechanical Co.
Tucked away in the Gulch, Pins Mechanical brings duckpin bowling and retro arcade vibes together under one roof. Check out what's waiting:
- Duckpin bowling
- Pinball
- Arcade games
- Ping pong
- Patio pong
- Bocce
- Giant Jenga
Bad Axe Throwing
Channel your inner Viking at downtown's only axe throwing bar, featuring 14 private lanes with 29 targets. The space offers:
- Craft cocktails and local brews on tap
- Level up with knife and "big axe" challenges
- Stunning downtown Nashville views
- Hearty Northwoods fare at Blu Ox Restaurant
Great Big Game Show
Ever dreamed of being on Wheel of Fortune? This venue turns your game show fantasies into reality with an hour of TV-inspired challenges. Two teams face off on a professional soundstage complete with dazzling lights and game show sound effects. You'll find:
- 18 rotating mini-games that keep the fun fresh
- Difficulty levels that match your group's style
- Easy-to-follow video instructions for each round
The Escape Game
Think you can crack the code? This premium escape room venue creates Hollywood-worthy adventures. Teams race against a 60-minute clock solving mind-bending puzzles. Here's what awaits:
- Seven meticulously crafted escape scenarios
- Team building packages with leadership insights
Topgolf Nashville
Golf meets party central in this three-story entertainment paradise with 100+ climate-controlled bays. You'll discover:
- Summer cooling and winter heating in every bay
- Free club rentals for everyone
- 200+ HDTVs throughout
- Massive 2,500 square foot party space
- Rooftop terrace with cozy fire pits
- High-tech private event rooms
Need some swing tips? Golf pros hang out in the bays ready to help during group events. The social tournament style beats traditional golf — no rain delays here!
Game Terminal
Step back in time at one of America's largest vintage arcade collections. This gaming paradise delivers:
- Endless 80s and 90s arcade classics
- Both indoor and outdoor play areas
- Perfectly crafted cocktails and local beers
- Huge board game library
- Free arcade gaming all day long
The outdoor fun continues with:
- Cornhole battles
- Giant Connect Four
- Ping pong matches
- Shuffleboard showdowns
The Crag Nashville
Looking for a different kind of climb? With over 12,000 feet of climbing elevation, The Crag brings mountain adventure indoors. Boulder routes and a Moon Board system challenge both first-timers and seasoned climbers. Groups of 10 start at $275, with extra climbers just $18 each. Don't worry about gear — they provide everything, including harnesses and safety training for anyone 10 and older.
Nashville Airsoft
Picture this: 30,000 square feet of pure adrenaline-fueled fun. Nashville Airsoft rules Tennessee's airsoft scene. The warehouse stocks everything from basic rental gear to pro-level equipment, welcoming players of all skill levels.
A day of action runs between $20 to $65 per person, covering your ammo and field time. Love competition? Don't miss their SpeedQB Tournaments hitting the field every first Saturday.
Tee Line Nashville
The winter Olympics just landed in Music City. Tee Line Nashville brings the city's first-ever curling experience, mixing this unique sport with bowling, fantastic food, and flowing drinks. Never tried curling? No problem. Their 45-minute crash course gets everyone ready to play like pros.
Step inside to discover:
- Pristine curling sheets and bowling lanes
- Wide-open, modern design
- Cozy outdoor fire pit hangout
- Sports playing on multiple screens
- Full bar with craft drink masters
The vibe hits just right — energetic enough for a night out but perfect for family fun too. Pro tip: Book ahead for bowling and curling slots, this place fills up fast.
FAQs
What are some popular non-drinking activities in Nashville?
Nashville offers a variety of activities that don't revolve around alcohol, including visiting museums like the Country Music Hall of Fame, enjoying outdoor spaces like Centennial Park, attending live music performances at venues like the Ryman Auditorium, and participating in group activities such as kayaking on the Harpeth River or joining running clubs.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in Nashville?
Yes, Nashville has several family-friendly attractions. The Nashville Zoo is a popular choice, offering a diverse array of animals and a historic Grassmere area. Other options include the Adventure Science Center, the Lane Motor Museum, and the Nashville Parthenon in Centennial Park.
What outdoor activities are available in Nashville?
Nashville boasts numerous outdoor activities, including hiking and biking trails at Percy Warner Park, kayaking on the Cumberland River, and exploring the Shelby Bottoms Greenway. Additionally, you can enjoy picnics and outdoor concerts at Centennial Park or visit the Cheekwood Estate & Gardens for beautiful botanical displays.
Where can I enjoy live music in Nashville without focusing on drinking?
Several venues in Nashville offer live music experiences that aren't centered around drinking. The Station Inn is known for its bluegrass performances, while the Listening Room Cafe provides a restaurant-style setting where the focus is on the music. The Bluebird Cafe is famous for its intimate songwriter rounds.
What unique group activities are available in Nashville?
Nashville offers several unique group activities, such as escape rooms at The Escape Game, ax throwing at Bad Axe Throwing, and retro arcade gaming at Game Terminal. You can also try group cooking classes, join a local sports league, or participate in themed scavenger hunts around the city.
