Graduation weekend is here! You have family and friends in town to see you get that degree you’ve worked so hard for, but after the pomp and circumstance is over, you’re going to need something to do.
So, where are the best places in Nashville to celebrate your achievement with family and friends? Here are a few ideas for a fun weekend in the city with out-of-town guests.
FOR A SIT-DOWN MEAL
- Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant
Boasting several locations in and around Nashville, Puckett’s offers Southern home cooking. Try the fried green tomato BLT! If you’d like to get out of the city, check out the Franklin location or the original in Leiper’s Fork. Learn more here. - Edley’s Barbecue
With locations in 12South and East Nashville, Edley’s is easy to get to from Trevecca. Make sure to order the nachos—they’re famous for them! Edley’s also serves brunch on Saturdays. Get the details here. - The Loveless Café
A Nashville landmark, the Loveless Café doesn’t disappoint. Enjoy breakfast, Southern fare and, of course, the biscuits the Loveless is famous for. But since it’s Mother’s Day weekend and three Nashville universities are celebrating graduation, expect a wait—and they don’t take reservations. Get a glimpse of the menu here.
FOR AN OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
- Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art
The former home of the Cheek family, Cheekwood boasts a historical home, art exhibitions and beautiful gardens. Learn more about visiting Cheekwood here. - Nashville Zoo
Situated just a few miles from Trevecca, Nashville’s zoo is home to kangaroos, meerkats and more. You can also tour the historic Grassmere house and farm or see the zoo from above on the Soaring Eagle Zip Line. Get more info here. - Percy and Edwin Warner Parks
If you’d rather just spend some time in nature, bike or hike a few trails, visit the Percy and Edwin Warner Parks. Learn more here. - Nashville Sounds baseball game
The Nashville Sounds are the AAA affiliate of the Oakland A’s. The Sounds are in town May 6-9, taking on the Memphis Redbirds. You can get tickets at www.nashvillesounds.com.
FOR BRUNCH
- Marche Artisan Foods
In East Nashville, Marche serves brunch from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. It’s generally busy and parking is limited, so you’ll probably want to call ahead if you plan to take a large group after graduation! Check out the menu here. - Biscuit Love
Famous for their biscuits (obviously, with a name like Biscuit Love), this restaurant in the Gulch started as a food truck. They have breakfast, brunch and lunch options and are famous for their “bonuts,” doughnuts made from biscuits. Learn more here.
FOR LIVE MUSIC
- The Bluebird Café
Famous as the place many Nashville musicians got their start, the Bluebird is a Nashville listening room focused on showcasing up-and-coming songwriters. Reserved seats are available, but sometimes hard to get. You can also stand in line before a show for the chance to get a seat in the pews. To see who is playing this weekend, go here. - The Listening Room Café
Another local listening room hosting nightly rounds with local musicians and songwriters. It’s a good place to see a star before he or she becomes famous. Get more information here.
FOR THE "NASHVILLE" EXPERIENCE
Here’s a brief list of the places most tourists want to see when they come to Music City.
- Ryman Auditorium
Take a tour (they’re offered 9-4 p.m. daily) or catch a show over graduation weekend. Learn more here. - Pancake Pantry
http://www.thepancakepantry.com - Centennial Park
http://www.nashville.gov/Parks-and-Recreation/Parks/Centennial-Park.aspx - The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
countrymusichalloffame.org - The Grand Ole Opry
www.opry.com
AN INSIDER'S GUIDE TO NASHVILLE
A few of the places we love:
- Baja Burrito
A favorite of every Trevecca student, which means it’s a must-have during graduation weekend! Check out the menu here. - Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
Nashville is famous for hot chicken and this is the place to try it. Learn more here. - Crema
A coffeehouse famous for their version of the Cuban (an espresso drink), it’s a good place to refuel after a long day. Get more information. - The Pharmacy
Burgers, shakes, malts and homemade sodas. What’s not to like? Study the menu here. - Gabby’s Burgers and Fries
One of the best burgers in town and happens to be located in Trevecca’s back yard! Learn more.
FOR DESSERT
- Loving Pie Company
Located in Berry Hill and close to Trevecca, the Loving Pie Company offers pie and coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up. Check out the menu. - The Cheesecake Factory
With locations in Green Hills and Cool Springs, you’re sure to get a chance to savor your favorite cheesecake. Our favorite tip: Get it to go and enjoy it at one of Nashville’s parks.
FOR SOUVENIRS
- Tennessee Craft Fair
The annual event in Centennial Park, featuring fine crafts, artisans and hands-on opportunities, is scheduled for May 6-8. It annually attracts more than 45,000 visitors and includes more than 200 exhibitors. - White’s Mercantile
A store with a little of everything, from antiques to sunglasses. Owned and operated by Holly Williams, Hank Williams Jr.’s daughter. Learn more.