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I don’t know about you, but when I think of Nashville, I think of country music. As a first time visitor to the city, I didn’t really know what to expect outside of that (and as a country fan — or should I say, Dolly Parton stan — that was just fine with me). However, the capital of Tennessee has a hell of a lot to offer.

Michelin Star restaurants like The Catbird Seat have put the city on the map when it comes to food — in fact, The Michelin Guide Ceremony will take place in Nashville this October. And while my beloved Dolly isn’t actually from Nashville (she was born in nearby Locust Ridge, Tennessee) her own branded SongTeller Hotel will open in the city this autumn. 2030 will mark a major milestone for Nashville, as its Nissan Stadium will play host to the Super Bowl.

It’s worth noting that BA flies direct to Nashville from London Heathrow, seven days a week from £723pp return. It’s never been easier to visit Music City, so consider this your ultimate guide to doing it right.

• Where to Stay in Nashville
• What to do in Nashville
• Where to Shop in Nashville
• Where to Eat and Drink in Nashville

The National Museum of African American Music

While there’s a lot of history in this city, it’s not all about looking backwards. The National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) opened in January 2021 in the new Fifth + Broadway complex, a six minute walk from the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum, meaning you can hit both institutions in one afternoon. The museum showcases the many connections and influences that African American composers have had on all genres of music. From classical to country to jazz and hip-hop, the museum seamlessly integrates history and interactive technology (you get sent your own Spotify playlist to go home with based off what you interacted with).

Assembly Food Hall, 5th + Broadway

Featuring more than 30 artisanal eateries, nine uniquely themed full-service bars, two full-service restaurants and three live performance stages, Assembly Food Hall is a place for everyone. The most popular spot when I visited, however, was an outlet for Prince’s Hot Chicken, widely known as the city’s original hot chicken joint. With eight spice levels, climbing all the way to XXX Hot, this is where to get an authentic taste of the city (although it’s not for the faint hearted).