Nashville, TN, is famously known as "Music City" and the heart of country music. Its historical landmarks include the Ryman Auditorium (116 5th Ave N), originally built in 1892 and called the "Mother Church of Country Music," and the Grand Ole Opry House (2804 Opryland Dr.), where famous musicians still perform. The city also has deep roots in the Civil War era, with historic sites like the Belle Meade Plantation (5025 Harding Pike), once a thoroughbred horse farm, and Fort Nashborough (170 1st Ave N), a reconstruction of the original pioneer settlement.
Nashville’s rich history includes educational institutions like Vanderbilt University (2201 West End Ave.), established in 1873, and Fisk University (1000 17th Ave N), a historically Black college known for its cultural contributions and Jubilee Singers. The Tennessee State Capitol (600 Dr. M.L.K. Jr Blvd), completed in 1859, is one of the oldest operating state capitol buildings and a prime example of Greek Revival architecture. These historic sites shape Nashville’s identity as a center of music, education, and southern heritage.
Nashville is also home to major companies such as HCA Healthcare, Nissan North America, and Asurion, which are headquartered mainly in downtown and the surrounding Cool Springs area. These companies boost Nashville's standing in healthcare, automotive, and tech support industries, making it a key business center in the Southeast.
Nashville’s business districts include Downtown, the Gulch, and Green Hills. Downtown is the largest district with offices, government buildings, and music venues. The Gulch is known for its modern offices and entertainment spaces, while Green Hills has a mix of retail, dining, and business offices catering to residents and professionals.
Compared to other large cities, Nashville’s cost of living and office rents are relatively affordable, though rising quickly due to population growth. Business expenses like office space and utilities are generally lower than in cities like New York or San Francisco, making it an appealing location for startups and corporate expansions.
Nashville’s transport options include public buses operated by WeGo Public Transit, which runs routes around the city and to nearby suburbs. Biking is common in some areas, though walking is easier in downtown and tourist spots. Major highways I-40, I-65, and I-24 link Nashville to cities like Memphis, Louisville, and Atlanta.
Nashville International Airport (BNA) is the city’s main airport, about 8 miles east of downtown, with flights throughout the U.S. and some international routes. Smaller regional airports, such as John C. Tune Airport (JWN), serve private and charter flights. Although there are no seaports, Nashville has river ports along the Cumberland River, allowing some freight movement by water.