[PHOTO_137447]
Melody calls to patrons of Music City, and while we're known for our honky-tonks and gorgeous concerts and the Ryman and Opry, music also crops up in less formal settings.
Start your morning off in Hillsboro Village at Nashville's celebrated Pancake Pantry. It's the perfect locale to spot a familiar face - as country music artist's and stars are commonly seen waiting in line and sitting down to the Pantry's famous silver dollar pancakes. The New York Times and Bon Appetit attest to the immense popularity of this satisfying eatery. With the varied wait times (the line can grow quite long), it's worth noting that the Pancake Pantry also includes lunch items among its extensive breakfast menu.
With your belly full, head on downtown to 2nd Avenue, where street musicians can be heard tuning their guitars and banjos over their morning cup of joe. Linger on the sidewalks and pop into souvenir shops to mix and match mementos with harmonies. Just don't forget to tip the artist for the much-enjoyed song.
Head on over to Ellison Place for the afternoon. It offers hungry patrons the best burger in town at Rotier's, as well as some of the funkiest shops for perusing. Rotier's might look like a dive from the outside, but don't be fooled. The food is terrific and the prices are great. If you're looking for a real treat, be sure to try one of their famous milkshakes. If you're a vegetarian, don't worry - they also serve daily blue-plate specials and affordable breakfasts.
Centennial Park is a stone's throw away from Rotier's, and it's the perfect place to walk off lunch, or settle in with a to-go bag. The members of Music City love the tranquil and welcoming aura that radiates from Centennial Park. It's the perfect retreat for avid nature lovers, families, and travelers with furry companions. The park offers a wide range of entertainment and relaxation options for one and all. There are many on-going cultural events, local fairs, plays, and music events held regularly on the park's spacious grounds.
The Parthenon replicates the structure of the ancient citadel right in the heart of the park and houses an extensive gallery inside. Whether you're in the mood to fly a kite, take a stroll, or see a masterpiece, Centennial Park has an affordable option for you. Just be sure to keep your ears open for a local artist presenting a new song or fine-tuning and old one.
To cap off a musical day, finish your Music City adventure with a trip to one of the bars on Broadway for a grand finale and final encore. From Wildhorse Saloon to Tootsie's, you can't go wrong.
