It’s the home of honky-tonks, hoedowns, and old-fashioned Southern hospitality — and now it’s the home of Connect 2022. This summer, we’re packing our bags, grabbing our boots, and making our way to historic Nashville, TN to see what the city has in store.
And, of course, we’ve saved you a seat.
At Connect, PioneerRx’s annual user conference, you’ll learn new skills, make new connections, and find new ways to reinvent your independent pharmacy.
But in between classes, you’ll find plenty of time to explore one of the most vibrant cities in the nation. You’ll find see new sights, hear new sounds, and become well-acquainted with all Music City has to offer.
If you’re looking to make the most out of your time in Tennessee, here’s your ultimate travel guide to its most-loved city:
Whether you’re a Nashville newbie or a frequent flyer, you’re in for a treat.
The city has a rich history but takes on a modern twist, making it perfect for audiences of all kinds. From its natural landscapes to its nighttime attractions, Nashville will certainly have something for you.
A bit of background: Nashville was established in 1779 as a small community, but over the years, it’s exploded in popularity. Today, Nashville boasts over 700,000 residents and sees 16 million tourists every year.
A few Nashville facts you might not have known:
1. Nashville is named after a Revolutionary War hero, Francis Nash.
2. Nashville was the first Southern city to desegregate public establishments in 1960, marking a historic step forward in the Civil Rights Movement.
3. Nashville native William Walker was the first American to become president of another country. Walker held office in Nicaragua for one year. No American has held a non-native office ever since.
4. Nashville native William Edmondson was the first African-American to have a solo art exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art.
5. Back before she was a household name, Oprah Winfrey got her start in Music City. She was the first African-American news anchor at Nashville’s WTVF-TV.
6. Nashville is home to the world’s first-ever combination candy bar, the Goo Goo Cluster. The Goo Goo Cluster contains milk chocolate, caramel, peanuts, and marshmallow nougat, and was a popular treat in the 1900s.
7. Nashville boasts the only existing replica of the Greek Parthenon. You can take a short walk to Centennial Park and see it for yourself.
8. Nashville hosts the Tin Pan South, the largest songwriter’s festival in the world. Every year, over 400 songwriters gather together for this 5-day event.
9. Nashville's famous Hot Chicken was actually created as a “revenge recipe.” When a woman suspected her partner was unfaithful, she seasoned his chicken with extra spice. In a surprising twist of events, the man actually liked the flavor so much that he refined her recipe and created his own hot chicken restaurant.
10. Nashville allegedly had a “rock and roll curse” back in the 1980s. It all started when a local group, Jason & The Nashville Scorchers, removed “Nashville” from their name. After the name change, no Nashville rock band was able to sell a million records — until Paramore came along in 2007 and broke the curse with their second album, “Riot!”, effectively restoring Nashville’s claim to fame.
If you know anything about Nashville, you know about the must-see sights: the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and of course, all the attractions at the Gaylord Opryland — where we’ll be staying.
But if you’re looking to try out something new, consider a few of the must-see spots on your Nashville tour:
Remember the man who opened his own chicken shack after his girlfriend’s revenge recipe went wrong? (See Nashville fun fact #9 above). Take a trip to that very restaurant, which is still in operation today, for hot wings and sweet treats. Trust us: revenge won’t be on the menu.
Soda fountains and pharmacies have a tangled history, so see where it all started by making a stop at Elliston Place. Enjoy a classic meat-and-three plate with a specialty soda of your choice.
If upscale dining is right up your alley, take to Bourbon Steak to see a 360-degree view of the Nashville skyline and savor a steak from Michelin star chef Michael Mina.
If you’re feeling adventurous, head to Etch to try an array of global flavors and mouth-watering desserts. Try the octopus and shrimp bruschetta or tempura tofu, or be surprised by the chef’s daily creation.
After a night out, refuel with a hearty breakfast at one of the most iconic restaurants around. Famous for its hot biscuits, warm gravy, and country ham, the Loveless Cafe has been serving Nashville for generations.
Looking for a quick getaway? Take a trip 25 minutes outside of the city to see Teneessee’s premiere vineyard and sample 22 award-winning wines. Featuring live music and food trucks every weekend.
Nashville’s first-ever speakeasy, the Patterson House has been serving up delectable drinks since the 1920s. Try the Tomcat Sour, Resonance Cascade, or Whistle Pig Sazerac.
If you’re looking to try something new, head to Attaboy to get a custom cocktail from a mixologist. Share a few of your favorite tastes and get a new drink, created just for you. Just know that you have to knock to get in.
Tucked away in the interior hallway of Nashville’s Villa Palace, Old Glory serves up only the finest cocktails with the freshest ingredients. Look for the door with the golden triangle.
Kept away from all the tourists, this local hotspot offers eclectic decor and a yummy house cocktail (a whiskey sour with amaro).
Take a tour of the most famous stage in Nashville, featuring over 130 years of music history. Learn about the legends who shaped the music industry and, at the end of the night, catch a live show from current performers.
If classical music is more your speed, swing by the Nashville Symphony to hear the sounds of Nashville’s own world-class orchestra.
Get a taste of Nashville’s nightlife with live music and line dancing. You’re bound to hear a song from the most famous names in country music, like Darius Rucker, Rascal Flatts, and Lady A.
Sing along and sip a cold drink at the longest bar in Nashville, or head outside for a rooftop view with the best views in the city.
Enjoy fine dining, nightly jazz music, and burlesque at one of Nashville’s most-acclaimed historic spots. Skull’s has been serving the city since 1948, with past performers including Elvis Presley, Etta James, Johnny Cash, and Patsy Cline.
Beat the summer heat at the Gaylord Opryland’s exclusive waterpark, which features over 100,000 sq. ft. of indoor water attractions and activities. Try the Rapid Remix, Stage Dive, and Record Launch rides.
Try a sweet treat at Nashville’s famous chocolatier. For added fun, you can even make your own chocolate. Sticky fingers and lots of smiles are guaranteed.
If you or your kiddos have an eye for design, explore Nashville’s famous print shop with an interactive tour, where you can watch and learn how concert posters are made. You can even create your own design to take home.
Learn about the life and legacy of one of country music’s greatest artists. See interactive exhibits and hear Cash’s most famous tunes as you walk around.
Get a breath of fresh air at this must-see spot, which features a children’s garden, art activities, and drop-in storytimes, all included with admission.
Take your average party bus and put a Nashville spin on it. See downtown Nashville on this 75-minute public party tractor tour, complete with its own onboard dance floor, DJ, and cash bar. You won’t find anything like it anywhere else.
Discover a new side to Nashville when you set out on this spooky, after-dark adventure. See local landmarks, find supposedly haunted spots, and hear eerie tales that’ll make sure you sleep with the light on.
Are you a star in disguise? Take to Nashville’s only fully-functional, professional recording studio and belt out a tune. You can take your record home and listen back whenever you want.
Ever wondered where the most famous musicians live? Take a minibus tour to the homes of over 30 Nashville celebrities, including Taylor Swift, Kellie Pickler, Reese Witherspoon, and more.
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, grab a cable and take a zip line trip through the forest just north of Nashville. Try an evening firefly zip tour to watch the trees light up as you glide through the shadows.
Nashville is home to hundreds of attractions, waiting just for you.
Register for Connect 2022 in your PioneerRx pharmacy software system, then start planning to go to a few must-see spots.
What new memories will you make?
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