Nashville International Airport is around 8 miles from downtown Nashville, so if you have any spare time during your travels, you can enjoy some of the many nearby attractions. If you have a long layover, an early check-in at your hotel, or simply some spare time, there are plenty of things to do near Nashville Airport. From world-famous country music spots to outlet stores, historic attractions, and outdoor activities, there are plenty of places to explore.
Things to Do Near Nashville International Airport (BNA)
There are several popular places to visit near Nashville International Airport (BNA). Some of the best attractions are listed below.
| Attraction | Distance / Driving Time | Time Needed | Cost |
| Grand Ole Opry | ~8 mi / 15 min | 2–3 hours | Ticketed |
| Opry Mills | ~8 mi / 15 min | 2–3 hours | Free entry |
| Gaylord Opryland Gardens | ~9 mi / 15 min | ~1 hour | Free; parking ~$20 |
| Nashville Zoo | ~8 mi / 15 min | 2–3 hours | $16–26 adults |
| Lane Motor Museum | ~4 mi / 10 min | 1–2 hours | $15 adults |
| Two Rivers Mansion | ~2 mi / 5 min | 30–60 min | Grounds free; tours $20 |
| Percy Priest Lake | ~7 mi / 15 min | Half day | Free |
1. Grand Ole Opry
One of the longest-running radio shows in U.S. history, this is a must-see! The show airs several times a week on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays with additional performances around holidays. Backstage tours are also available daily. Book tickets online at opry.com.
2. Gaylord Opryland Resort & Gardens
No hotel key is needed to visit. Explore 9 acres of stunning indoor gardens, waterfalls and river walks. Parking costs approximately $20. It is one of the most comfortable things to do near the Nashville airport in rain or heat weather.
3. Opry Mills
The biggest outlet mall is directly opposite the Opry House, with over 200 stores and restaurants, along with a Regal 4DX/ IMAX Cinema, Madame Tussauds, The Escape Game, and Dave & Buster’s. Parking is free, so it’s a great place to start if you have a rental car.
4. Nashville Zoo at Grassmere
Approximately 15 minutes from the airport, this zoo has large walk-through enclosures, a kangaroo walkabout and a historical farm area. The entry fee for adults ranges from $16-$26, depending on the date. Children (aged 2-12) save $4. Open from 9am-4pm between Mid October to Early March, the zoo is open from 9 AM to 4 PM, with extended hours during warmer months.
5. Lane Motor Museum
With the largest European car collection in the USA, Lane has over 200 different cars and motorcycles to see. This includes microcars, prototypes and amphibious vehicles. The cost of admission is $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, $3 for children aged between 6 and 17, and free for those aged 5 and under. The museum is closed on Tuesday and Wednesday. There are also free car demonstrations on Saturday and Sunday at 11 AM.
6. Two Rivers Mansion
This 1859 antebellum home is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is approximately five minutes from the BNA airport and can be toured (guided) between June and October at $20 per person. The park and greenway around the house can be visited FREE of charge every day. There are also festive tours during November and December.
7. J. Percy Priest Lake
A fifteen- to twenty-minute drive from the airport. This lake is perfect for water sports, fishing, and walking around the shoreline. There are several public marinas and boat ramps. Hamilton Creek Park is a few minutes from Nashville International Airport and has some great picnic areas and mountain biking trails.
Things to Do at Nashville Airport
There is plenty to do at BNA in Music City, even if you are only connecting through the airport for a short time.
- Live Music: Performances happen regularly at Ole Red & Tootsie's Orchid Lounge (Concourse C), and ACME Feed & Seed (BNA Marketplace).
- Local Eateries: Hattie B's Hot Chicken, The Pharmacy Burger Parlour, TailGate Brewery, and 8th & Roast Coffee can be found after security. You can also visit the Starbucks at Nashville Airport.
- Art: With The Arts at the Airport program, you can enjoy rotating art displays throughout the terminal.
- Shopping: From souvenirs to Southern-style gifts, you can browse at The Opry Shop, Parnassus Books, and Draper James.
Conclusion
From Opry shows and restaurants at BNA to free gardens and lake trails, the list of things to do around Nashville Airport offers options for every schedule and budget. Check opening hours, show calendars, and seasonal pricing on official websites before you go, then enjoy the many attractions around Nashville International Airport.
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