Nashville is one of the most picturesque places in the world from the natural beauty of its parks and waterways, to its historical buildings, to incredible urban murals. Whether you’re looking for a backdrop for family or engagement photos or are simply snapping a shot for social media, Nashville’s best photo spots sure are something to like. Here are 13 of Music City’s best Instagram-worthy picture spots.

Ryman Auditorium

Ryman Auditorium is arguably the most iconic historic building in Nashville. Constructed in 1892, the building’s brick facade and stained-glass windows are recognizable from anywhere. Take a photo in front of the big white doors at the original entrance on 5th Ave. for the most iconic view, or pose by one of the statues adorning the building’s plaza featuring Loretta Lynn, Bill Monroe, and Little Jimmy Dickens.

Grand Ole Opry House

The True Home of Country Music, a visit to the Grand Ole Opry is a bucket-list item for any country lover. Show you’re a #1 fan of the genre with a photo in front of the famous building’s sign, or for something more unique, take a shot in front of the wall of Opry members’ mailboxes. Fun fact: Did you know you can actually send mail to your favorite country singer care of the Grand Ole Opry?

Murals

Some of visitors’ favorite stops on a trip to Nashville are the murals that adorn the city. Each neighborhood has its own signature street art, and many are easily spotted by the lines that wrap around the block as folks wait for a chance to take their own photo. Pack your patience and your selfie stick, then make your way to one of these murals for the most Instagrammable selfie of all time.

What Lifts You–Wings

Located in the Gulch near favorite breakfast spot Milk & Honey, these white wings painted on a black background are arguably the most famous mural in the city. There’s even a small set of wings for your dog or baby to have their own photo taken.

I Believe In Nashville

There are two “I Believe in Nashville” murals in Music City. The original can be found in 12 South next to Reese Witherspoon’s boutique, Draper James. The second is in East Nashville on the side of the Basement East. During the tornado that ravaged East Nashville in 2020, the “I Believe in Nashville” was one of the only things left standing in the path of destruction–a testament to the city’s resilience. 

Nashville Looks Good On You

This black-and-white mural is somewhat hidden in 12 South, tucked behind the Frothy Monkey coffee shop.

Looking Pretty, Music City

Find this funky, colorful mural in 12 South on the side of the Madewell store.

It’s Gonna Be Ok

Brighten up any photo with this cheerful sentiment, found at 3020 Charlotte Ave.

Dolly Parton

What’s more Nashville than Dolly? Or, her mural anyway. Find her in East Nashville at The 5 Spot on Forrest Ave.

Instagram Like

Be the first to like your own photo at the Instagram Like mural at Barista Parlor Germantown.

Love Y’all

Strike a pose in front of this adorable phrase at 2020 Lindell Ave. in Wedgewood-Houston.

Heiroglitches

Duck into this tucked-away corridor for a photo opp, hidden next to Three Brothers Coffee on West End Ave.

Music Row

A historic district in southwest Nashville on 16th and 17th Avenues, Music Row is home to record labels, radio stations, and recording studios. Countless of music’s biggest names have recorded here, from Dolly Parton to Willie Nelson. A stroll through the neighborhood offers plenty of photo opps in front of well-known studios and plaques marking notable moments in music history.

John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

Spanning 3,150 feet across the Cumberland River, the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge is one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world. It’s also a perfect spot to snap a selfie with the Nashville skyline in the background. Connecting East Nashville’s Cumberland Park to downtown’s 2nd Ave. with boats and water flowing below, the pedestrian bridge is also a great spot for sightseeing and getting some exercise during your visit.

Lower Broadway

The neon glow of Lower Broadway draws visitors to Music City like moths to a flame. Home to honky-tonk row with live music pouring from every open window, this is the spot for the quintessential Nashville picture. Stand in front of an iconic honky-tonk, like Tootsies Orchid Lounge or Robert’s Western World, or just off 2nd Ave. with the expanse of Broadway behind you.

Printers Alley

A lesser-known gem in Nashville, Printers Alley is home to more great bars and restaurants, like Skull’s Rainbow Room, Miss Kellie’s Karaoke Bar, and Bourbon Street Blues & Boogie Bar. It’s also a great spot for a photo lit by the neon signs and lights strung overhead. Find it between 3rd & 4th and Church & Union streets and look for the large Printers Alley sign.

Nashville Waterfront

Nashville is built on the banks of the Cumberland River creating a picturesque waterfront on the edge of downtown. There are many great spots for photos, but the best is found on the east side of the river near Cumberland Park. Pose there to catch the Cumberland flowing behind you and the Nashville skyline towering above.

Centennial Park

Visit sunny Centennial Park on Nashville’s west side with acres of green space, art, and other features, including a replica of The Parthenon. Take a photo among the Parthenon’s Greek columns or inside the structure, where you’ll find a 42-foot, full-scale replica of the statue of Athena. 

Cheekwood Botanical Gardens

There’s nothing quite as beautiful as Cheekwood Estate & Gardens in the springtime. This 55-acre botanical garden and historic estate features more than 150,000 flowers in bloom in the spring, as well as other picture-worthy sights during its seasonal festivals. The grounds boast many gardens for self-exploration, including a literary garden, a Japanese garden, and a color garden. With such beauty, Cheekwood’s not only a great spot for social photos; It’s the perfect backdrop for family photos or even a marriage proposal.

Radnor Lake

Take some shots of Nashville’s natural beauty at Radnor Lake State Park, located just outside the city. Spanning over 1,300 acres, the park features an abundance of wildlife, nearly eight miles of hiking trails, and incredible views of Tennessee’s rolling hills.

Rooftop Bars

Nashville boasts a whole bunch of rooftop bars with impressive views of the city. Take a picture in front of the skyline or the bustling streets below from bars like Ole Red, Rare Bird, or L.A. Jackson. Even better, shoot a selfie at White Limozeen, a Dolly Parton-themed bar decked out in delicious pinks and over-the-top feminine decor, perfect for your social media feed.

Hermitage Hotel Bathroom

Hermitage Hotel is as famous for its men's restroom as it is for having hosted former presidents in its high-end hotel rooms. In fact, it’s even been awarded the Restroom of the Year. Featuring lime green and black glass tiles, lime green fixtures, and original terrazzo flooring, this beautiful bathroom really does live up to the hype. Worry not: All genders are welcome to see this restroom.

FAQs

Where Should I Take Pictures in Nashville?

There are countless spots for photo opps in Nashville. Start with the murals and street art located in every neighborhood in the city. Photograph the neon lights lining honky-tonk row on Lower Broadway, or pose in natural beauty at Cheekwood Gardens or Radnor Lake.

Where are the Instagram Murals in Nashville?

Photo-worthy murals can be found all around Nashville. Some of the neighborhoods with the most popular murals include the Gulch, 12 South, East Nashville, and Wedgewood-Houston.

Where Can I Photograph Nashville's Skyline?

There are a few great spots to capture Nashville’s skyline. Try the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge, connecting downtown Nashville to East Nashville across the Cumberland River. Or, stand on the banks of the Cumberland River on Nashville’s East Side to get a great shot of the Batman Building and some of the honky-tonks on 1st Ave.

What Streets in Nashville are Best for Pictures?

The best streets for photo opps in Nashville are Broadway Ave., in front of honky-tonk row, or Printers Alley, a more hidden locale downtown. 12th South has a couple great alleys, as well, with picture-perfect murals off the beaten path.

Book Your Tour

Experience the history of Ryman Auditorium by taking a tour. Tours of the Ryman’s exhibits are offered daily. Choose from a self-guided tour to go at your own pace, or book a backstage tour to learn about the venue through the stories of a knowledgeable tour guide while you explore backstage and in the Ryman’s dressing rooms. You’ll even get a chance to have your photo taken on the infamous Ryman stage. Visit this living museum and see the best of Nashville and music history.

Book a Show or Event at Ryman Auditorium

There are always great entertainment acts on stage at Ryman Auditorium. Whether you’re into country music, rock, hip hop, folk, or bluegrass, you’ll find a show that’s right up your alley. And it’s not just musicians; The Ryman regularly hosts comedians and speakers, too. Find a show that interests you on the Ryman Auditorium events calendar and buy your tickets.

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