How to Plan a Summer Vacation in Nashville, Tennessee

A summer vacation in Nashville, also known as the Music City, will be a vacation you never forget. This city is lively and rowdy, and offers unparalleled options for a country-music lover. Nashville is home to landmarks such as the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. You'll be hard-pressed to find a better place to experience old-fashioned Southern hospitality than Nashville.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Rental car
• Map
• Computer
• Travel guide
• Plane ticket

1. Figure out prospective dates for your trip, and do research on lodging and transportation. Doing this research will allow you to estimate the cost of your trip. Start this with plenty of time ahead of you to get the best rates. The earlier you book your transportation, the cheaper it is!
2. Attend to the needs of your household. Make sure you have arrangements for any pets, children or houseplants that are staying home. Find a neighbor to take your mail and newspapers in for you, or go to the post office and fill out the forms required to have your mail held. This is a good idea if your trip is extended.
3. Determine your packing needs. Make a list of all the things you will need, and stick to that list when packing. If you plan on going to theater shows, which is likely, you will need appropriate dress. However, it’s not likely that you will need to pack an evening gown or a tuxedo. If you have questions on attire, contact the Nashville Convention and Visitors Bureau.
4. Review the research you made on accommodations in Step One. Choose a hotel or bed and breakfast by looking at the location, price and amenities offered. Location is extremely important when selecting a place to stay, as it could affect your transportation costs.
5. Become familiar with the city of Nashville. Check out maps of roads, attractions, restaurants and landmarks. Once you are familiar with a city, it is much easier to find your way around and you won't have to worry about getting lost. Keep a copy of the address of your hotel with you at all times when you are traveling so you can find your way back.
6. Check out local attractions for tourists. Using a travel guide is helpful. People who have traveled to the Music City before can give you great advice. Make a list of the destinations you would like to visit, and then decide which ones fit into your schedule. Be sure to check out each attraction's Web site or call ahead to make sure that they are open when you are visiting.
7. Decide whether or not you will take a tour of the city. These tours usually are not that expensive, but often only show you certain parts of the city. However, they are a great tool if you have never been to Nashville before and want to get more familiar with the city’s background and layout. Use your travel guide as a resource to find great tours.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to keep your planning information organized in a folder. This will allow you to keep the information together for easy access.
• Check out the weather before you leave. Nashville is prone to warm, dry weather, but it can often be cold and rainy.