Big Cypress Lodge
Spring at the Pyramid: The Ultimate Riverfront Retreat
There is a certain magic to the open road in springtime, with soft breezes, blooming landscapes, and the freedom to follow the curves of the Mississippi. As the horizon shifts, a striking silhouette emerges, the iconic Pyramid. Inside, Big Cypress Lodge offers a spring escape that feels worlds away, yet begins the moment you step inside.
Rising above the river, the Lodge is a one-of-a-kind retreat that infuses the rustic charm of a cozy cabin with the elevated comfort of a boutique resort. Every suite is thoughtfully crafted with handcrafted furnishings, fireplaces, and jetted soaking tubs. Private screened porches offer a unique overlook of the vibrant activity of Bass Pro Shops or enjoy the stillness of the cypress-themed interior.
The adventure continues beyond your room. Take an unforgettable ascent in one of the world's tallest freestanding elevators to The Lookout at the Pyramid. Here, 360-degree vistas of downtown Memphis meet elevated comfort food and seasonal cocktails. Back on the ground, explore the immersive Cypress Swamp, wander the expansive retail collections, or enjoy a playful afternoon at The Fishbowl, an underwater-themed bowling alley.
Located just minutes from the National Civil Rights Museum and the revitalized Tom Lee Park, the Lodge provides complimentary shuttle access to the city's best festivals and riverfront walks. Whether you're seeking a spontaneous weekend getaway or a soulful retreat to "unplug," let the road lead you to the Pyramid this season.
Plan your visit at big-cypress.com
Brooklyn Bowl Nashville
With its groundbreaking integration of live music, 19 lanes of bowling, locally crafted beers and cocktails, food by the acclaimed Blue Ribbon Restaurant Group, and a patio overlooking First Horizon Park, Brooklyn Bowl Nashville is the ultimate night out. Located in the heart of Germantown, the two-story all-in-one restaurant, bar, bowling alley, and concert venue carries a playful, bold atmosphere with a modern edge and refined yet classic “rock club” sensibilities.
The 1,200-capacity space includes multiple bars stocked with craft favorites featuring local brews by Bearded Iris, TN Brew Works, and Yazoo, in addition to handcrafted cocktails ranging from their famous Big Top Margarita to the Drunken Palmer. From the legendary fried chicken to the Buddha Bowl, there are food options for everyone courtesy of NYC's Blue Ribbon.
Be sure to make a reservation before the show to fuel yourself for bowling or rocking out on the concert floor. Brooklyn Bowl Nashville also offers an array of concert experiences. Once you’ve secured your ticket, upgrade to their VIP experience and get the luxury of food & beverage service, premium viewing, and comfy seating. If you’re looking to stay on the GA floor, purchase a Fast Lane pass to ensure your spot on the barricade.
While they are primarily a live music venue, watch out for their Open for Bowling Nights. These nights are all ages and have no cover, so it’s the perfect opportunity to bring out friends and family!
Step right up and enter the world of Rock And Roll.
Cheekwood
America the Beautiful: National Parks & Landmarks by Rail | May 2 – September 6
All aboard for a summer trains spectacular at Cheekwood! With 10 trains, 850 feet of track, and 25 iconic American destinations, this is Cheekwood’s largest outdoor train exhibit yet, spanning the entire Bradford Robertson Color Garden.
Travel from coast to coast — no suitcase required. From the Statue of Liberty to Tennessee’s own Great Smoky Mountains to the Golden Gate Bridge, each miniature model is a masterpiece of botanical architecture handcrafted from natural materials.
This installation is in addition to Cheekwood’s permanent TRAINS! exhibit, which will also be running this summer, doubling the fun for kids ages 1 to 101.
Cheekwood Community Celebration: Arts and Music in America | June 4 – 7 (Thursday - Sunday)
Free daytime admission for Members. Half-price daytime general admission.
In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, Cheekwood invites the community to gather for a festival celebrating Arts and Music in America. Guests can enjoy the expanded outdoor train display America the Beautiful, blooming gardens and walking trails, American art exhibitions in the Historic Mansion, and concerts highlighting American musical traditions.
America the Beautiful is presented by The Crossman Family & AWC Family Foundation. Major support from Mary & Larry Wieck.
Reserve tickets at cheekwood.org
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Plan a trip to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum this summer. Local youth 18 and under who are residents of Nashville-Davidson and bordering counties always visit free, plus 25% off admission for up to two accompanying adults.
Reserve tickets at countrymusichalloffame.org
Visit The Shoals
Summer in The Shoals is a music lover's dream! Just two hours from Nashville, this vibrant corner of northwest Alabama is home to the quad cities of Florence, Muscle Shoals, Tuscumbia, and Sheffield.
Each offers its own blend of history, culture, and Southern charm, from walkable downtown streets to locally owned restaurants and boutiques. The Shoals boasts three historic downtown districts and legendary recording landmarks like Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, Cypress Moon Studios, and FAME Recording Studios.
Walk in the footsteps of music icons and experience the places where countless hit songs were born, then explore museums, riverfront parks, and a thriving local arts scene. Flowing through it all is the “Singing River,” a natural soundtrack for unforgettable adventures.
Throughout the year, The Shoals comes alive with music and events. Don’t miss the Helen Keller Festival (June 25-28) and the W.C. Handy Music Festival (July 15-27). Later in the season, experience the SkyDog Music Festival (August 28-30), celebrating Duane Allman at the luxurious Renaissance Shoals Resort & Spa, or ShoalsFest, founded by Jason Isbell, along the river this October.
Plan your visit today and let the music of The Shoals create unforgettable memories.
Alpine Helen/White County, Georgia
A New Adventure Every Day
Travel to a place that has Old World towers, gingerbread trim, traditional German foodstuffs, and strasses and platzes spilling over with Scandinavian goods.
See a natural beauty perched on the Chattahoochee River in the Northeast Georgia mountains, glass shops, art studios, and specifically The Sautee Nacoochee Center: Visual and Performing Arts, the Helen Arts and Heritage Council, and the Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia.
Shop at more than 150 shops in Helen and Sautee-Nacoochee with the nostalgic Old Sautee Store and the Lavender Cottage and Garden.
Taste: Helen offers over 25 restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and candy shops to tempt your taste buds.
Enjoy Babyland General Hospital, home of the Cabbage Patch Kids, a family-friendly retail store/gift shop.
Go mining for gemstones in three different locations, tube down the Chattahoochee River, ride horses in the mountains, zip line at three breathtaking locations, fly fishing on Smith Creek, Dukes Creek, or the Chattahoochee River.
Take a ride down the mountain on the Alpine Coaster, and photograph Indian mounds, old mills, historical buildings, and nature at its best.
Explore the many waterfalls and hiking trails, including the new Helen to Hardman Historical Trail, canoeing, swimming, daily activities, and the county’s most difficult mountain bike trail.
Tour the Historic Hardman Farm and Smithgall Woods Conservation Area and antique shops.
Stay at Unicoi Adventure Lodge, Downtown Helen, camping or in luxury cabins and B&Bs.
For these and many more options, visit us at www.HelenGa.org or call 1-800-858-8027
Music City Kartplex
Just beyond the city lights and honky-tonk buzz, there’s a different kind of Nashville thrill waiting in Shelbyville: Music City Kartplex, one of the Southeast’s most exciting outdoor destinations for speed, competition, and unforgettable summer fun.
Set against the rolling Tennessee countryside, Music City Kartplex delivers an experience unlike anything in the Nashville area. The professionally designed outdoor circuit gives first-time drivers ages 12+ and seasoned racers alike the chance to feel the rush of real motorsports in a safe, approachable environment.
Forget amusement park go-karts, this is authentic wheel-to-wheel action on a purpose-built track where every corner, straightaway, and passing opportunity feels straight out of race day.
What makes the Kartplex special is its rare ability to appeal to everyone, and no experience is required! Families can spend an afternoon cheering each other on, couples can turn date night into a little friendly competition, and groups can book unforgettable corporate outings or birthday celebrations. Serious racers also flock here for leagues, owner kart events, and competitive race weekends that draw talent from across the region.
Summer is the perfect time to visit. Long daylight hours, warm evenings, and open-air racing create an atmosphere that feels equal parts sporting event and weekend getaway. Between sessions, guests can relax trackside, take in the action, try out one of the premier racing simulators, and enjoy the energy of a venue built around community and adrenaline.
For Nashville locals looking to escape the ordinary or visitors wanting a memorable detour beyond downtown, Music City Kartplex offers something increasingly rare: a genuine racing experience. It’s fast, it’s fun, and it just might awaken your inner racer.
This summer, trade Broadway traffic for the checkered flag at musiccitykartplex.com
Renaissance Shoals Resort & Spa
Get away this summer to Renaissance Shoals Resort & Spa.
This summer, escape to the serene beauty of Renaissance Shoals Resort & Spa, nestled along the sparkling waters of the Tennessee River. Whether you're looking to unwind by the pool, indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment, or explore local adventures, the resort offers the perfect getaway for every traveler.
Start the day with a splash at the pristine outdoor pool, where you can soak in the sun, enjoy poolside service, and take in the breathtaking views. For those seeking ultimate relaxation, the world-class spa offers an array of treatments designed to rejuvenate both body and mind.
After a day of adventure and pampering, enjoy the nightlife at Swampers Bar & Grille with live music each evening. Fine dining awaits in Alabama's only revolving restaurant, 360 Grille, a decadent dining experience with one-of-a-kind views.
Beyond the resort, The Shoals’ vibrant culture and charm await. Explore historic sites, indulge in local cuisine, or immerse yourself in the area's legendary music scene. Whether hiking nearby trails, discovering art galleries, or enjoying the cool area vibe, the possibilities for adventure are endless.
Plan your unforgettable summer escape today at Renaissance Shoals Resort & Spa. With luxury, relaxation, and adventure all in one place, it's the ultimate destination for your perfect summer getaway.
For more information, visit renshoals.com
Woolworth Theatre Marquee
A night out at Marquee, Nashville's newest supper club, is rooted in style, substance, and sound. Marquee offers a more refined way to experience Nashville nightlife, with a live band playing postmodern hits, elevated cocktails, and a thoughtfully designed space. Marquee is where the night comes to life.
Reservations can be placed at marqueenashville.com.
Shiners
Meet the Shiners, an eclectic but lovable family of moonshiners who have gathered together for a family reunion you'll never forget. From high-flying aerialists and gravity-defying strong men to dazzling pole acrobatics, you will be electrified and entertained by the hidden and amazing talents of each quirky member of this one-of-a-kind family.
Kick back, relax, and hold on tight for a night of adult comedy, cirque-style entertainment, and a party you will only find right here in Nashville.
Ages 18 and up only. Tickets available at shinersnashville.com.
Arrington Vineyards
Arrington Vineyards offers an unforgettable blend of award-winning wines and breathtaking views. Co-owned by country music artist Kix Brooks, it's a favorite destination for locals and visitors looking to relax and unwind.
Just a short drive from Nashville, the 95-acre property features scenic hillside picnic areas, a variety of tasting rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere that invites guests to slow down and enjoy the moment. Whether you're sipping a wine flight or sharing a bottle with friends, each visit feels special.
Arrington Vineyards also hosts a variety of seasonal events that draw visitors back again and again. From Food Truck Fridays and Music in the Vines to a variety of tasting experiences, there's always something new to discover.
Arrington Vineyards is more than just a winery. It's a destination that captures the spirit, charm, and flavor of Tennessee in every bottle.
Visit ArringtonVineyards.com for more information
All-American SummerFest at Gaylord Opryland Resort
Red, white, and blue comes alive on weekends May 22 – September 7 at Gaylord Opryland with a celebration designed to capture everything we love about summer. This family-friendly event blends classic Americana with one unforgettable resort experience.
Guests can choose to enjoy resort pool parties, outdoor movie nights, live music under the stars, interactive scavenger hunts, and soaring fireworks displays celebrating America's 250th birthday.
Food lovers will gravitate to rotating festival favorites, from barbecue and kettle corn to sweet summer treats, while creative minds can tap into a hands-on craft zone. As day turns to night, the resort comes alive with music-driven fountain shows and illuminated silent disco cruises on the indoor Delta River.
Whether you're visiting for the day or planning a staycation, All-American SummerFest delivers nostalgic summer fun with a big-time Nashville flair and memories that last long after the fireworks fade.
Learn more at GaylordOpryland.com
Foundry Fieldhouse Sports Bar & Taproom
Big screens, bold flavors, and a high-energy atmosphere define Foundry Fieldhouse Sports Bar & Taproom, Gaylord Opryland's newest destination for game-day excitement and social gatherings.
The expansive two-level venue pairs elevated pub fare and an impressive beverage program, including an exclusive Tennessee lager, with four full-service bars and a jaw-dropping 38-foot LED screen that rivals a stadium scoreboard.
Inside, an industrial-inspired design and Nashville-centric artwork set the scene for everything from casual nights out to spirited sports viewing. Step outside and the experience expands even further with connecting outdoor lawns and a pavilion ideal for private event luncheons, receptions, and celebrations.
Whether you're grabbing a drink with friends, catching a big game, or hosting a group gathering, Foundry Fieldhouse delivers a fresh take on the modern sports bar just in time for summer.
For more information visit GaylordOpryland.com/dining
General Jackson Showboat
A true Nashville icon, the General Jackson Showboat offers one of the city's most distinctive experiences on the water. As Nashville's only paddlewheel showboat, this legendary riverboat pairs Southern hospitality with live entertainment and sweeping skyline views along the Cumberland River.
Daytime lunch cruises and evening dinner shows showcase talented performers, theatrical flair, and classic riverboat charm, while specialty theme cruises add extra energy throughout the summer and into fall.
Guests can sing along on live cruises featuring '80s Favorites with Guilty Pleasures or the Nashville Yacht Rock Band, celebrate the season with a festive Halloween voyage, or set sail on a scenic fall foliage cruise as the riverbanks transform with color.
It's a relaxed yet lively way to entertain visiting guests, celebrate milestones, or see the city from a new perspective. The General Jackson also offers private charters, corporate events, and group discounts.
Whether dining or dancing beneath the lights, this paddlewheel classic delivers timeless Nashville entertainment.
Find tickets at GeneralJackson.com
Hunter Museum
Perched on a 50-foot bluff face, the Hunter Museum boasts stunning, panoramic views of the Tennessee River and features three distinct, interconnected buildings with 18 galleries of American art, from historic to contemporary.
Explore work by Andy Warhol, Mary Cassatt, Winslow Homer, Childe Hassam, Georgia O'Keeffe, Robert Rauschenberg, Kehinde Wiley, and more. Whether you're looking for a daytime outing or a weekend getaway, the Hunter's exhibitions have something for everyone.
Youth 17 and under receive free admission, and monthly Sunday Studios are a great way to get creative with the whole family, with drop-in art making, inspiring performances, and activities from local artists and community partners.
Your next art adventure is just a short drive away!
For more information and tickets visit Huntermuseum.org
Hutton Hotel
You don't have to leave town to feel like you're on a getaway. A staycation at Hutton Hotel transforms a familiar weekend into a forever memory.
Start with cocktails at Mimi's, then slip into dinner at Evelyn's, where vibrant, seasonal dishes set the tone for the night. Up one floor on the elevator, Analog delivers an intimate live music experience — up close, immersive, and unmistakably Nashville.
When the night winds down, retreat to a newly renovated guestroom designed for comfort and calm. The next morning, linger a little longer with a restorative treatment at the brand new spa, where the pace slows and everything feels considered.
Whether it's a celebration or a reset, Hutton offers locals a chance to rediscover the city from the inside out — effortless, elevated, and entirely your own.
Discover more at huttonhotel.com
Pulaski County, Missouri
Plan Your Mother Road Adventure
Celebrate the Route 66 Centennial in the heart of the Ozarks! Stop in Saint Robert, Missouri, at the Route 66 Neon Park and admire these mid-century masterpieces lighting up the twinkling night sky above the Mother Road, just as they did generations ago.
Each sign stands as a marvelous tribute to the history of Route 66 and its continued influence on American culture.
Learn more at VisitPulaskiCounty.org
The Wonders Center & Science Museum
Experience one of Tennessee's newest must-see attractions — The Wonders Center & Science Museum, the state's largest science museum, just outside Nashville in Dickson.
Step into immersive exhibits featuring life-size dinosaurs, rare artifacts, interactive displays, and hands-on activities for all ages. Don't miss the #1 planetarium experience in America or the electrifying one-million-volt musical Tesla Coil show — unforgettable highlights that spark awe.
Now open: Wonders of the Sea, a brand-new exhibit featuring multiple aquariums filled with breathtaking marine life. Dive in and explore the beauty of the ocean up close.
With exhibits spanning paleontology, astronomy, biology, zoology, anatomy, literature, and more, plus family-friendly events all year long, there's always something new to discover.
It's the perfect place for a summer day trip or group outing. Escape the heat at The Wonders Center, where curiosity and fun come to life!
Plan your visit: wonderscenter.org