Things to do in Brentwood
Belle Meade Plantation
Belle Meade Plantation is 7 mi. s.w. on US 70S at 5025 Harding Rd. Guides in period costumes conduct tours of an 1853 Greek Revival mansion noted for its cantilevered staircase, 14-foot ceilings and classic proportions. It originally was the centerpiece of a 5,400-acre working plantation and Thoroughbred farm. The site also includes an 1890 carriage house displaying antique carriages, a 1790 log cabin, an 1820 smokehouse, an 1840 mausoleum and an 1884 creamery. Call (615) 356-0501 for more information.
5025 Harding Rd., Nashville, TN 37205
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is at 222 5th Ave. S. The museum contains exhibits, films, interactive displays and costumes as well as instruments and lyric sheets. Concerts, songwriter demonstrations and tours of Historic RCA Studio B are offered. Allow 2 hours minimum. Call (615) 416-2001 for more information.
222 5th Ave. S., Nashville, TN 37203
Discovery Center
Discovery Center is at 502 S.E. Broad St. The hands-on museum features a fire truck; a “creation station,” where children can paint, sculpt and draw; and exhibits focusing on culture, transportation, science, water, cooking and music. Some 20 acres of wetlands can be explored on boardwalks. Call (615) 890-2300 for more information.
502 S.E. Broad St., Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Grand Ole Opry
Grand Ole Opry shows are performed in the 4,400-seat Grand Ole Opry House. The Opry, the country's longest-running live radio show, has not missed a broadcast since its beginning in 1925. The shows feature bluegrass, comedy and gospel artists as well as many well-known country music stars, including Alan Jackson, Loretta Lynn and Martina McBride. Call (615) 871-6779 for more information.
2806 Opryland Dr., Nashville, TN 37214
The Hermitage
The Hermitage is at 4580 Rachel's Ln. The two-story antebellum mansion was the home of Andrew Jackson, seventh president of the United States. The house was originally built as a brick Federal-style structure 1819-21 and was greatly expanded in 1831. Following a fire in 1834, it was rebuilt in the Greek Revival style, with six massive Corinthian columns lining the front. Following his presidency, Jackson returned to the house and lived here until his death in 1845. Costumed guides lead visitors through the mansion, which houses original Jackson family pieces. Log cabins where slaves lived and formal gardens where the Jacksons are buried are on the 1,120-acre grounds. Call (615) 889-2941 for more information.
4580 Rachel's Ln., Hermitage, TN 37076