Downtown Nashville is alive with energy every summer, and 2025 is no exception. Whether you’re a local or visiting Music City for the first time, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do. From live music and rooftop views to cultural events and fireworks, here’s your guide to the best experiences downtown this summer.
1. Let Freedom Sing! – 4th of July Celebration
Celebrate Independence Day with Let Freedom Sing!, Nashville’s massive 4th of July event. This free, family-friendly celebration features live performances and one of the largest fireworks displays in the country, lighting up the skyline over the Cumberland River
2. Nashville Symphony: Gladiator Live
On July 2, 2025, experience the epic film Gladiator like never before at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. The Nashville Symphony will perform Hans Zimmer’s powerful score live alongside a screening of the movie—a must for film and music lovers alike
3. Rooftop Bars with a View
Downtown Nashville boasts some of the best rooftop bars in the South. Enjoy skyline views and craft cocktails at:
- Acme Feed & Seed – A Broadway staple with live music and Southern eats
- L27 Rooftop Lounge – Chic ambiance and poolside vibes at The Westin
- White Limozeen – A Dolly Parton–inspired rooftop at the Graduate Hotel
4. Beer, BBQ & Bourbon Tour
Dive into Nashville’s culinary scene with a guided Beer, BBQ & Bourbon Tour. Sample local brews, savor slow-cooked barbecue, and sip Tennessee whiskey while learning about the city’s food culture.
5. Live Music on Every Corner
From the honky-tonks of Broadway to iconic venues like the Ryman Auditorium and The Bluebird Café, live music is the heartbeat of downtown. Catch a rising star or a surprise set from a country legend.
6. Explore Local Events and Festivals
Downtown Nashville’s summer calendar is packed with concerts, comedy shows, and cultural festivals. Check out venues like Bridgestone Arena, Ascend Amphitheater, and First Horizon Park for a full lineup of events
Whether you’re sipping bourbon on a rooftop, watching fireworks over the river, or enjoying a symphony under the stars, downtown Nashville offers something unforgettable this summer. Schedule a tour today to make the most of your summer!
