Nashville Suburbs: Top Picks For Your Visit

Hey guys! Planning a trip to Nashville and wondering where else to explore beyond the city limits? You're in the right place! Nashville's suburbs offer a fantastic mix of small-town charm, vibrant culture, and beautiful scenery. Whether you're looking for family-friendly activities, delicious food, or a relaxing escape, there's a suburb with your name on it. Let's dive into some of the best Nashville suburbs that should be on your travel radar.

Franklin: A Historic Gem

Franklin, Tennessee, is a must-visit suburb located just south of Nashville. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant downtown area, Franklin offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. History buffs will be in heaven exploring the meticulously preserved Civil War battlefields and historic homes. The Carter House and Carnton Plantation offer immersive tours that bring the past to life, giving you a glimpse into the lives of those who lived through this pivotal period in American history. Strolling along Main Street, you'll be charmed by the array of boutique shops, art galleries, and antique stores. It's the perfect place to find unique souvenirs and gifts. The Franklin Theatre, a beautifully restored historic theater, hosts a variety of live performances, from concerts and plays to classic movies. Catching a show here is a great way to experience the local arts scene. Foodies will rejoice in Franklin's diverse culinary scene. From upscale restaurants serving Southern cuisine to cozy cafes and casual eateries, there's something to satisfy every palate. Be sure to check out 55 South for some delicious Southern comfort food or Red Pony Restaurant for a more refined dining experience. Franklin also hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the Main Street Festival, Dickens of a Christmas, and the Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival. These events offer a fun and engaging way to experience the local culture and community spirit. With its blend of history, culture, and charm, Franklin is a top Nashville suburb that promises a memorable visit. Whether you're interested in exploring historical sites, shopping for unique finds, or simply enjoying a delicious meal, Franklin has something for everyone. Don't miss the opportunity to discover this gem just a short drive from Nashville!

Brentwood: Upscale and Serene

Brentwood stands out as one of the best Nashville suburbs to visit, especially if you're looking for an upscale and serene experience. Known for its beautiful parks, affluent neighborhoods, and excellent shopping and dining options, Brentwood offers a refined escape from the city's lively energy. One of the main draws of Brentwood is its stunning natural beauty. The city boasts numerous parks and green spaces, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Radnor Lake State Park, with its scenic lake and hiking trails, is a popular spot for nature lovers. Take a leisurely stroll around the lake, go for a hike in the surrounding woods, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. For those who enjoy shopping, Brentwood has a lot to offer. The CoolSprings Galleria is a large shopping mall with a wide variety of department stores, specialty shops, and restaurants. You can find everything from high-end fashion to home goods to electronics. The Hill Center Brentwood is another popular shopping destination, featuring a mix of upscale boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. Brentwood's dining scene is equally impressive. You'll find a range of restaurants serving everything from classic American cuisine to international flavors. Mere Bulles is a popular spot for fine dining, offering a sophisticated menu and elegant atmosphere. For a more casual meal, check out Redlands Grill, known for its delicious steaks and seafood. Brentwood is also home to several cultural attractions. The historic Travellers Rest Plantation & Museum offers a glimpse into the past, with tours of the beautifully preserved plantation house and grounds. The Brentwood Library hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including author talks, book clubs, and children's programs. With its combination of natural beauty, upscale amenities, and cultural attractions, Brentwood is a fantastic Nashville suburb to visit. Whether you're looking to explore the outdoors, indulge in some retail therapy, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, Brentwood has something to offer everyone.

Murfreesboro: History and Modernity

Murfreesboro, one of the best Nashville suburbs, seamlessly blends history and modernity, offering visitors a unique and engaging experience. As one of the fastest-growing cities in Tennessee, Murfreesboro boasts a rich historical background alongside a thriving contemporary culture. History buffs will find plenty to explore in Murfreesboro. The Stones River National Battlefield is a significant Civil War site, where the Battle of Stones River took place in 1862-1863. The battlefield offers walking trails, monuments, and a visitor center where you can learn about the battle and its impact. Oaklands Mansion is another historical gem, a beautifully preserved antebellum home that offers tours and events throughout the year. For those interested in education and culture, Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) plays a significant role in Murfreesboro's identity. The campus is home to the Center for Popular Music, which houses a vast collection of recordings, books, and artifacts related to American vernacular music. The university also hosts numerous cultural events, including concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions. Murfreesboro's downtown area is a vibrant hub of activity, with a mix of locally owned shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The historic square is a great place to stroll around, browse the shops, and soak up the atmosphere. There are also several parks and green spaces in Murfreesboro, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation. Barfield Crescent Park is a large park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. The Murfreesboro Greenway System offers miles of paved trails for walking, running, and biking. Foodies will find plenty to enjoy in Murfreesboro's diverse culinary scene. From Southern comfort food to international cuisine, there's something to satisfy every palate. The Alley on Main is a popular spot for upscale dining, while Marina's on the Square offers delicious Italian dishes. With its blend of history, culture, and modern amenities, Murfreesboro is a terrific Nashville suburb that offers a well-rounded experience. Whether you're interested in exploring historical sites, attending cultural events, or simply enjoying a delicious meal, Murfreesboro has something for everyone. It’s a spot where the past and present come together to create a vibrant and engaging destination.

Hendersonville: Lakeside Fun

If you're looking for a Nashville suburb with a strong focus on lakeside fun and outdoor activities, Hendersonville is your go-to destination. Located on the shores of Old Hickory Lake, Hendersonville offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, from boating and fishing to hiking and picnicking. Old Hickory Lake is the centerpiece of Hendersonville, providing endless opportunities for water-based activities. You can rent a boat and spend the day cruising on the lake, go fishing for bass and catfish, or simply relax on the shore and soak up the sun. There are several marinas and boat launches around the lake, making it easy to access the water. For those who prefer land-based activities, Hendersonville has plenty to offer as well. The city boasts numerous parks and green spaces, providing ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and picnicking. Rockland Recreation Area is a popular spot for outdoor recreation, with hiking trails, picnic shelters, and a playground. Drakes Creek Park is another great option, with a walking trail, a splash pad, and a dog park. Hendersonville is also known for its connection to country music. The city was home to Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash for many years, and their former home, the House of Cash, is a popular tourist attraction. You can take a tour of the house and learn about the lives and careers of these country music legends. The city also hosts the annual Hendersonville Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Festivities at Drakes Creek Park which includes live music, a craft fair, food vendors, and a fireworks show. Hendersonville's dining scene is diverse and appealing, with a mix of local restaurants and national chains. Whether you're in the mood for seafood, steak, or Italian, you'll find plenty of options to choose from. With its focus on lakeside fun, outdoor activities, and country music history, Hendersonville is a super Nashville suburb that offers a unique and engaging experience. Whether you're looking to spend a day on the lake, explore the local parks, or learn about the lives of Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, Hendersonville has something for everyone. It’s a great escape offering both relaxation and adventure.

Spring Hill: Family-Friendly Community

Spring Hill is often celebrated as one of the best Nashville suburbs, particularly for those seeking a family-friendly community with a blend of suburban comfort and convenient access to city amenities. This rapidly growing city offers a welcoming atmosphere, excellent schools, and a variety of family-oriented activities, making it an ideal place for both raising children and enjoying a relaxed lifestyle. One of the main reasons families flock to Spring Hill is its top-notch education system. The public schools in Spring Hill are highly rated, providing students with a strong academic foundation. There are also several private schools in the area, offering additional educational options. Beyond academics, Spring Hill offers a variety of recreational activities for families to enjoy. The city has numerous parks and green spaces, providing ample opportunities for outdoor fun. Port Royal Park is a popular spot for families, with a playground, a splash pad, and walking trails. Harvey Park is another great option, with a disc golf course, a dog park, and a community garden. Spring Hill is also home to several family-friendly entertainment venues. The Spring Hill Cinema offers the latest movies, while the Stars and Strikes Family Entertainment Center features bowling, arcade games, and laser tag. For those who enjoy shopping and dining, Spring Hill has a lot to offer as well. The city has a variety of shopping centers and restaurants, ranging from national chains to locally owned businesses. The Crossings of Spring Hill is a large shopping center with a mix of department stores, specialty shops, and restaurants. Spring Hill also hosts several community events throughout the year, including festivals, concerts, and holiday celebrations. These events provide opportunities for residents to come together, connect with their neighbors, and celebrate the community spirit. With its excellent schools, family-friendly activities, and strong sense of community, Spring Hill is a wonderful Nashville suburb that offers a high quality of life. Whether you're looking to raise a family, enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, or simply escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Spring Hill has something to offer everyone. It's a place where community values thrive and families can truly feel at home.

So there you have it, guys! These Nashville suburbs each offer something unique and special. Whether you're into history, nature, music, or just a chill vibe, there's a suburb near Nashville that's perfect for your visit. Happy exploring!