Enjoy some respite from the heady buzz of downtown Nashville at Riverfront Park, a charming space on the banks of the Cumberland River. Currently in the process of being redeveloped, and soon set to grow ten times larger, the park regularly plays host to open-air concerts and festivals, and is a great place simply to enjoy a picnic while admiring the General Jackson Showboat as it floats by on the water.
The park is the focal point for the city in its annual Fourth of July celebration. On the day, you will get to see the cityscape illuminated for miles on end with a dazzling and dramatic firework display. Concerts are also held during the course of the city's two-day festivities. In recent years, some of the major acts who have headlined include Darius Rucker, Katy Perry and Kenny Chesney.
In June, this is the centrepiece of the city's largest and most famous event, the four-day Country Music Association (CMA) Music Festival. With daily concerts held at the park and free to enter as well as ticketed events on at the LP Field close by, you can make the most of the carnival atmosphere all over town, but especially at this thriving spot. As well as enjoying the music, you can browse the stalls selling craft beers, CDs, corn dogs and much more besides.
If you're around in August, make sure you go to the Music City Festival & BBQ Championships, which attracts both foodies and music lovers. At this event, you'll find vendors, demonstrations and food-themed fun and games, which you can enjoy while making the most of the music on offer.
Other public events, ranging from the Pride Festival to fun runs and dragon boat races can be found in this park. To see what's on when you're in Nashville, have a look at the calendar of events on the park's website.
You can easily reach Riverfront Park by taking the Music City Star bus or the train. Next to the train station, you'll also find a bike share kiosk.
