Anyone can hit up a honky tonk, head to a show at the Grand Ole Opry, or stroll along the streets of Music Row. But sometimes you want a little something different. Nashville has plenty of big-name venues and attractions, but it's also home to a flourishing scene of off-the-beaten-track destinations. If you're looking for unique things to do in Nashville, we're here to help find what you need to add some spice to your vacation.
This is the must-see list for the outside-the-box adventurers who want to make memories that they won't soon forget. You'll find something for the entire family among these 12 weird things to do in Nashville.
1. Pfunky Griddle
- Address: 2800 Bransford Ave, Nashville, TN 37204
If you have a secret hankering to cook your own breakfast while on vacation, the Pfunky Griddle is the place to go. Guests at the Pfunky Griddle should expect the unexpected. Here, you can cook your own pancakes, or watch them cooked for you on a tabletop griddle, while choosing from an impressive array of toppings and accouterments. Similar to a Chinese hot pot or a Korean BBQ but with breakfast food, the Pfunky Griddle is the place to go to make memories around some pan-fried dough. Murals on the walls and a playful atmosphere make this a breakfast you won't soon forget.
2. Fannie Mae Dees Park
- Address: 2400 Blakemore Ave, Nashville, TN 37212
Nashville has its fair share of historic parks, from Centennial Park to the ever-popular Nashville Riverfront Park. But for a truly unique park experience, stop by Fannie Mae Dees park, known to locals as Dragon Park. The reason for its draconic nickname is a distinctly off-the-beaten-path sculpture. Not your typical historic bust, the Fannie Mae Dees Park is home to a sculpted sea serpent crafted by Peruvian artist Pedro Silva. The park's history is interesting, as well; it was named after a woman who advocated for the land, which was temporarily slated to become part of Vanderbilt University's grounds, to remain accessible to neighborhood residents.
3. Ryman Alley
Most country music fans know about the Ryman Auditorium. But what about Ryman Alley? This back road is commemorated by a plaque to note just how many famous stars walked along its length. It's even said that Chet Atkins invited the Everly Brothers to play with him on the stage after hearing them play guitar in this alley; that was their first break toward stardom. Ryman Alley connects the backstage doors of Ryman Auditorium to Nashville's streets and bar stools, many of them undoubtedly heading to Tootsies Orchid Lounge, a historic bar just a block away.
4. Edgehill Polar Bears
- Address: 1125 Edgehill Ave, Nashville, TN 37203
Want a quick stop to see a unique street art installation while you're exploring Nashville? The Edgehill Polar Bears are two polar bear statues that once invited customers into a frozen custard shop. The shop closed in 1930, but the bears remain, a glimpse into the history of this unique Nashville neighborhood. There isn't much to do here aside from take a selfie with a hundred-year-old polar bear, but really, that experience isn't one you'll soon forget.
5. Welcome to 1979
- Address: 1110 48th Ave N, Nashville, TN, 37209
Lovers of all things vintage, you've found your mecca. Welcome to 1979 was a recording studio in the 1950's which became infamous for its copycat recordings of popular songs, which were then sent mail-order all over the U.S.--a federal felony. It changed hands several times after that; at different points in history, it was owned by Chess Records, then GRT Studios, before Chris Mara purchased it and turned it into Welcome to 1979. Stepping through the doors is like stepping into a capsule of Motown music history. It's still functioning as a recording studio, but they also offer guided tours. One room even has a foosball table and giant slide.
6. Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum
- Address: Opry Mills, 515 Opry Mills Dr, Nashville, TN 37214
You may or may not sight a true celebrity while you're strolling the streets of Nashville, but at Madame Tussauds Nashville, you're guaranteed to spot a huge array of celebs sculpted from incredibly lifelike wax. Always a unique and bizarre experience, Madame Tussaud's features a slew of country music stars, among others--and interactive exhibits that'll keep the whole family entertained. This location is located in Opry Mills, which is packed with shopping and dining options within easy walking distance.
7. Cooter's Nashville
- Address: 2613B McGavock Pk, Nashville, TN 37214
Dukes of Hazzard fans will appreciate the Cooter's Museum, which serves up a huge array of Dukes memorabilia and memories. See an original pair of Daisy Duke shorts, look at real items from the original set and go shopping at the gift shop. Admission to the museum is completely free and it's a great stop for the whole family.
8. Phat Bites
- Address: 2730 Lebanon Pike B, Nashville, TN 37214
Nashville has a huge array of dive bars we could mention among Nashville's unique places to visit, but Phat Bites takes the cake. Located in an old auto service center, expect graffiti, organic salads, paninis and vegetarian fare, excellent cocktails, live music and an all-around unique, colorful vibe that's hard to beat. Phat Bites has two locations in Nashville; take your pick, settle in and plan to stay awhile. The food is truly noteworthy, so come hungry.
9. Lane Motor Museum
- Address: 702 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville, TN 37210
In an interesting turn of events, Lane Motor Museum occupies a defunct bakery and it's home to some of the country's most unique vehicles, including some historic European models. The private nonprofit museum has tons of cars on display, some of them remarkably eye-catching. Think microcars that look little bigger than your kid's Cozy Coupe, amphibious vehicles meant to operate on water or land, early bicycles, motorcycles and even an engine-powered snow sled built in 1915. The collection here is truly impressive and anyone with an interest in automobiles of any kind will enjoy a stroll through the beautiful facility.
10. Hatch Show Print
- Address: 224 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN
Lovers of design will want to spend hours at Hatch Show Print, a historic print shop and museum that's been around since 1879. Here you'll get to see an old-school letterpress, educational displays on traditional screen printing and poster/print design. This is the place to grab a vintage poster to take home--or other custom-printed items in their uniquely fun gift shop. Hatch Show Print is located in the same building as the Country Music Hall of Fame, so it's a great niche stop to add on to your more mainstream sightseeing.
11. The Caverns
- Address: 555 Charlie Roberts Rd, Pelham, TN 37366
This location is a hop, skip and a jump outside of Nashville--or an hour-long drive, if we're honest. But it's well worth a drive. The Caverns is a one-of-a-kind event venue serving drinks and concessions during events. If you want to head out there for a concert, check their calendar. It's sure to be one concert you'll never forget; the acoustics of the venue are surprisingly enchanting, adding to the ambiance. You can also head to The Caverns for a tour of the caves any day of the week.
12. Pinewood Social
- Address: 33 Peabody St, Nashville, TN 37210
Pinewood Social is the ultimate hangout space. Grab coffee, food, play a game of pool, go for a swim, or bowl a few frames. You can pretty much do it all here--all without feeling rushed in and out the door. The industrial-chic space welcomes you in, the food and drinks are impeccable and the outdoor seating areas offer a relaxed area to soak up the sunshine and fresh air. This is a unique space that blurs the lines between restaurant, bar and entertainment venue.
Planning Your Trip to Nashville
When thinking of the best time to visit Nashville it’s important to know that AAA members can access perks and take advances for vacation planning such as getting the best discounts on hotels, rental cars and entertainment tickets.Â