After our time in Florida, we ventured to Tennessee, where Nashville and its surroundings offered us a unique blend of Southern charm and vibrant city life. Each corner we explored added layers to our adventure, revealing the soul of Tennessee beyond its country music roots.
Franklin, TN welcomed us with its historic charm and tree-lined streets. We strolled through its quaint downtown, discovering boutique shops and cozy cafes along the way. The slower pace and friendly locals made Franklin feel like a breath of fresh air, and it quickly became a favorite escape from Nashville’s bustle.
Marathon Motorworks felt like a step back in time, with its vintage industrial vibe and history as an old automobile factory. Today, it’s a lively hub of artisan shops, galleries, and music venues. Wandering through its brick-walled halls, we found local crafts, vintage items, and even American Pickers’ Antique Archaeology filled with one-of-a-kind finds. This spot captured Nashville’s creative energy perfectly.
The Nations Silo and Market is an up-and-coming neighborhood with an iconic silo portrait by Guido Van Helten depicting long time local, Lee Estes, who represents the area’s pre-gentrified history. Just beneath the silo, the bustling Nations Market is a hidden gem, offering everything from handmade goods to delicious street food. Exploring here showed us a more modern side of Nashville’s charm, blending the old and new in unexpected ways.
The Nashville Parthenon was truly a surreal experience as we stood before an exact replica of the ancient Greek temple in the middle of Centennial Park. This impressive structure left us awestruck, its grand columns and massive statue of Athena adding a surprising touch of classicism to our journey. The Parthenon and the park surrounding it became a favorite spot for leisurely afternoons, picnicking on the grounds and soaking in the mix of history and artistry.
Our time in Tennessee gave us a deeper connection to the state’s rich culture and lively spirit, leaving us with memories of music, history, and hospitality at every turn.