History
Located on the Cumberland River in Davidson County, Nashville is the capital of Tennessee. Internationally known as the epicenter for country music, other industries that prosper in the city include publishing, transportation and banking.
Founded in 1779 and originally called Fort Nashborough after the American Revolutionary War hero Francis Nash, the town quickly rose to prominence as a river port and railroad center. By 1843, the Nashville became the capital of the state.
The first state capital to be captured by Union Forces during the Civil War, the prosperous antebellum city was left economically devastated after the Battle of Nashville but rebounded in a matter of years, reclaiming its position as a leader in shipping and trading, while also developing a solid manufacturing base.
The late 19th century was a good time for Nashville. A healthy economy and a hefty construction boom left the city with a legacy of grand classic inner city buildings, which can still exist around the downtown area.
In 1925 Nashville was doing quite well in the publishing business. That same year the Grand Ole Opry began performances assuring the city’s place in the future as "Music City USA.”
Why you should go
If you’re a country music fan, this is the heartland! Even if you’re not, there’s music for all tastes live on stage just about any night of the week. Music clearly put Nashville on the map, but it's not the city’s only claim to fame. With two major-league sports teams, the Tennessee Titans of the NFL and the Nashville Predators of the NHL, and world-renowned attractions such as the Parthenon and the Ryman Auditorium, Nashville is a destination not to be missed.
Main attractions
* Country Music Hall of Fame: This is the place where you can find the roots of country music and learn about how it all began. Take a walk through music history and see where musical giants like Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton got their starts in the legendary RCA Studio B. A permanent exhibit explores country music from its very beginnings, with memorabilia, audio and video clips, interactive displays, and the Hall of Fame Rotunda. Rotating exhibits focus on a myriad of people, music styles and periods of history. www.countrymusichalloffame.com
* The Grand Ole Opry: In April 2010 massive flooding in Nashville left the Grand Ole Opry severely damaged. After five months of heavy repair and restoration, the Opry reopened September 2010. Now you have a second chance to watch history in the making as you enjoy the nation's longest running radio program, "The Grand Ole Opry." Experience some of country music's up-and-coming stars as they perform every night. Don’t be surprised when some of country music's greats pop in to perform just because they’re in the mood. Don’t pass up the opportunity to visit the museum located in Opry Plaza. There are multiple interactive exhibits that detail more than 70 years of the Opry's history. www.opry.com
* The General Jackson Showboat: Travel back to the time of Mark Twain and riverboat gambling aboard this 300-foot long paddlewheel vessel. Evening cruises feature live entertainment that includes country music concerts and Broadway show tunes. Afternoon cruises include Southern style cuisine. www.generaljackson.com
How to get there
By car take I-75 North to I-24 West. About 250 miles from Atlanta, the trip takes approximately four hours. Flying from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to Nashville International Airport is a breeze: about twelve minutes in the air.
Links of interest
* Chamber of Commerce: www.nashvillechamber.com
* Tourist Board: www.visitmusiccity.com
* Restaurant and Lodging Information: www.visitmusiccity.com
