While it is best known these days as the unofficial capital of country music, Nashville came by its “Music City” nickname because of a world-renowned choral group. After seeing the Fisk Jubilee Singers perform, Queen Victoria said the Nashville-based singers were so talented they must be from a “city of music.” (1)
This is just one of many ways that Nashville was built on a sturdy foundation of music. Signs of this legacy are everywhere, from the stage at the Grand Ole Opry, which has hosted country music legends, to the storied streets of Music Row, with its impressive lineup of recording studios, record companies, and music publishers.
You do not have to be a country music fan to appreciate Nashville. The city has become a hotspot for nightlife of all kinds, and it has plenty to offer in art and history. Nature enthusiasts will find picturesque settings and peaceful respites just a short drive from downtown.
| CLIMATE AND SEASONS IN NASHVILLE, TN |
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| With winters that tend to be chilly and wet and hot and muggy summers, the most comfortable months to visit Nashville are from mid-May to mid-June and from early August to early October. Nashville has become a popular destination for travelers, and tourists flock to the city from June through August. In addition to being ideal times to visit in terms of the weather, fall, and spring are the quietest seasons for crowds. If you want to attend one of Nashville’s massive music festivals, you must make the trek in June, as this is when most of them take place.
Why visit Nashville, Tennessee? There are few places in the U.S. where you can experience a better live musical performance than Nashville. Music venues are found downtown, ranging from hole-in-the-wall dive bars and modest nightclubs to grand concert halls that can seat thousands of people. A lively nightlife scene gives group travelers plenty of time to bond while relaxing or reveling. Picturesque state parks, many located within a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Nashville, feature scenic wooded vistas, sparkling lakes, and breathtaking waterfalls. Adventuring in these natural wonders is another great way to team build. |
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MORE TO LEARN AND EXPLORE
Nashville offers a noteworthy array of things to see and do, offering a wealth of attractions for virtually any interest. Here are some of the highlights.
Walk the Same Halls as Country Music Legends
The Grand Ole Opry is so iconic that some people travel to Nashville to catch a performance. The only thing better than seeing a music act on its stage is getting a backstage tour of the venue. The tour is a one-of-a-kind experience, peppered with stories about country music stars who have performed there. One of the stops on the tour is the studio where the famous TV show Hee Haw was filmed. Overall, it is a real treat and a memorable experience.
Experience a Live Performance in a Legendary Listening Room
Bluebird Cafe is an unassuming, intimate music venue in the heart of Music City that hosts nightly live shows, offering an up-close experience. For over 40 years, this 90-seat listening room has showcased some of the best songwriters and artists. Superstars such as Taylor Swift, Keith Urban, Faith Hill, and Garth Brooks are among the notable artists who have performed there. Owned by a not-for-profit organization, Nashville Songwriters Association International, Bluebird Cafe is devoted to songwriters and the craft of songwriting. Attendees may find it interesting that some of the Bluebird Cafe staff are songwriters or artists honing their craft. Meeting planners should be aware that tickets sell out quickly and that there is a minimum food and drink purchase per person.
Get an Up-Close Look at a Musical Institution
Music lovers will also appreciate the historical significance of RCA Studio B, where musical legends like the Everly Brothers and Elvis recorded songs. This studio plays a vital role in history in another way, putting Nashville on the map as an international music recording center. RCA Studio B is a hidden gem, making it a nice reprieve from the crowds at more well-known local attractions.
Take a Guided Tour of the Quiet Heartbeat of the Nashville Music Scene
Broadway gets more attention, but Music Row is as rich in country music history and tradition. Do not be deceived by the street’s unassuming appearance. It is a mecca for music publishers, record companies, and recording studios. A guided tour is highly recommended to ensure travelers do not miss out on fascinating stories and references.
Get Away from It All at Spectacular Botanical Gardens
Those who dismiss the natural splendor found in the Nashville area would quickly change their mind after a visit to Cheekwood Estate & Gardens. The sprawling 55-acre botanical garden blooms with many flower species divided into distinct gardens, including roses, boxwoods, dogwoods, and herbs. Greenhouses, an estate house, a train, and a sculpture trail complement the beautiful flower displays.
Dive into the History of Tennessee at a Downtown Museum
Tennessee’s exciting history goes well beyond the musical accomplishments of Nashville. And you do not have to leave downtown to learn about it. The Tennessee State Museum offers a wealth of exhibits on topics like the state’s role in Native American history and the Civil War. In addition to these permanent exhibits, visitors can view rotating cultural and art exhibitions.
MAKE YOUR MEETING MEMORABLE
Nashville has an ideal mix of nightlife, restaurants, arts, culture, and nature, offering plenty of opportunities for group travelers to strengthen their working relationships.
World Class Dining
Whether your travelers prefer down-home eats or elevated gourmet cuisine, they can find it in Nashville. The list is long, but examples of recommended restaurants include the unique mix of refined and casual at Audrey, a meat lover’s paradise at Black Rabbit, the swanky ambiance at The Southern Steak & Oyster, seafood and vegan fare at Etch, high-end Italian food at Yolan and live jazz enjoyed in an art deco setting at Gannons.
Versatile Hikes for All Levels
There are plenty of places to hike just outside Nashville, thanks to the rolling green hills in and around the city. Hikers can challenge themselves, breathe in fresh air, and bond while tackling the lakeside trail at Radnor Lake State Park, a short yet exhilarating trail that leads to a 110-foot waterfall at Ozone Falls Scenic-Recreational State Natural Area and hilly trails at wooded Edwin Warner Park.
Build Your Team Through Music
Longfellow once wrote that the universal language is music. If communication is the heart of great teams, what better place to explore music than Nashville? Partnering with experienced songwriters and artists, your group will be excited to join in, even the introverts. A song will be created just for your group using ideas and themes that spur lyric suggestions. Once the piece is written, professional artists will perform and record it. Your group can join in, whether clapping, using shakers, or playing the harmonica tucked in a pocket. The experience is fun and engaging and is a memorable team-building activity.
Executive Retreats Focused on Team Building
Nashville’s many attractions have made it a popular place for executive retreats focused on team building. Many local businesses that provide this service have opened in the area to meet this growing demand. They include the scenic Rau-Wood Retreat Center and Executive Retreat Center at Wildwood, the luxurious atmosphere of Nashville Retreat Center at Belle Air Mansion, creek-side lodging at Evins Mill, and an upscale experience in the hills at Five Star Retreat.
WHY IS NASHVILLE APPEALING FOR A MEETING?
Nashville and the surrounding areas have abundant lodging options and meeting spaces thanks to the city’s status as a popular place to travel. Holding a meeting in Nashville gives you access to upscale lodging, spacious meeting rooms with advanced technology, a wealth of amenities, and enough activities to suit any taste. The wooded areas, freshwater lakes and rivers, and rolling hills give travelers a respite from the electric vibe of downtown.
Some things to consider when planning your meeting in Nashville:
- Before leaving for an activity, check the status of where you are headed. Nashville is notorious for heavy traffic, especially if there is a musical, cultural, or sporting event. Allow for extra transportation time and possible delays. It is best to have an alternate plan if the activity is canceled or closed, has exceeded capacity, or there is a detour with heavy traffic.
- Check the local regulations for the latest safety measures, traffic/detours, weather conditions, and travel advisories. Meeting planners may want to consider options for box lunches, collaborating with local vendors to provide food delivery services, and taking necessary items such as extra water, food/snacks, and a first aid kit.
- Local customs and traditions are an essential part of Nashville. Southern charm and hospitality are vital to the local community. Onsite coordinators should remind attendees to be polite, greet others with a smile, and use “sir” and “ma’am” as a sign of respect.
What are your meeting objectives? Some examples:
- Many company retreats are designed to improve productivity and “refocus” employees’ efforts. Nashville provides an ideal destination to break away from the confines of an office and allows employees to socialize with people beyond their departments and relax. This can be extremely helpful for meetings where fresh ideas, new perspectives, and/or networking are essential for high-priority initiatives.
- Leadership retreats are also popular as this destination offers exclusive luxury where leaders can recharge and connect.
- Teambuilding can also happen through exploring natural sites like the forest, hills, botanical gardens, and the many hiking trails in the Nashville area. An outdoor adventure creates memories and a sense of pride that will last a long time for travelers.
- Incentive travel and meetings can be valuable for companies, key stakeholders, and top performers. Nashville provides unique, memorable experiences and is an outstanding destination for exchanging information that improves growth, solves problems, and engages change-makers.
With the seemingly endless activities, sights, and sounds, along with its storied history and iconic place in the music industry, it is no wonder that Nashville attracts thousands of visitors each year. This exciting, fascinating, and lovely destination meets the criteria as an ideal place to hold offsite meetings for team building.
Do you need help planning a corporate meeting or executive retreat to Nashville? Contact Gavel International for more information.
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SOURCE
1 https://www.tennessean.com/story/life/2019/02/19/why-nashville-called-music-city/2906635002/
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