At Rathbone Mansions we appreciate the beauty, charm and diversity found in New Orleans, Louisiana and all over the South. Many of our guests enjoy exploring the city of New Orleans from the comfort of our historic hotel as well as areas all over the south to experience what each unique spot has to offer. Our blog highlights many of these stunning places so you can design the best trip to suit your needs.

A love of country/western music has always been a part of me because I grew up in the West. But, of course, one doesn’t talk about this in good old New York City – too “down home” for this gang. That said I really like most types of music but a good old cowboy song will always have a special place in my heart.

That’s why I wanted to write about Nashville, the capital of Tennessee – it’s in the Deep South and it’s only slightly over 500 miles from New Orleans (you can drive there in 7 1/2 hours). Nashville has close to 700,000 residents and is described as “Music City.” You’ll find lots of fun stuff to do, see and enjoy if you visit.

There are roughly over 300 professional recording studios in Nashville – or within 50 miles – not an exact figure because there isn’t one. And, to the dismay of some, since 2015 there’s a ban on home studios. It’s also known as “The Athens of the South” because it’s home to so many colleges and universities.

Another fact I didn’t know about Nashville before I started this blog is that it’s completely landlocked and bordered by eight states – NORTH: Kentucky and Virginia; SOUTH: Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia; EAST: North Carolina; and WEST: Arkansas and Missouri along the Mississippi River. Now, let’s take a look at some of the spots you can visit.

THE GRAND OLE OPRY

When you’ve been around for 95 years everyone has heard of you! The Opry started as a one-hour radio “barn dance” – then moved to the Ryman Auditorium. Since 1974, the show has been broadcast from the GRAND OLE OPRY HOUSE at 2804 Opryland Drive in Nashville. Or, said differently, it’s just over one mile from downtown – a 16-minute drive away.

The Grand Ole Opry is still a live radio show and tickets must be purchased to see a performance. Backstage tours are also offered. Each show consists of multiple guest artists as well as Opry “members” (who can appear at any show they wish). Being invited to become a member is considered one of country music’s crowning achievements. Of course, one must behave oneself. For example, Hank Williams, who is now considered country music royalty, was a drunken pill-popping mess who frequently missed performances so the Opry gave him the boot in 1952. Since that time fans have been petitioning to posthumously reinstate Williams.

Here are other spots for you to visit: (1) The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum located at 222 5th Ave., South offers a look at the evolving history and traditions of country music. (2) The famous Music Row is a historical district located to the southwest of downtown Nashville. This is a one-of-a-kind experience offered on Lower Broadway. Neon lights blaze while the bars offer live music seven days a week. Partying goes on until the early morning hours. 

WHAT TO EAT?

Have you ever eaten a Moon Pie? I haven’t either but it’s described as a Tennessee creation that started in 1917 and is similar to a “S’MORE” – I get that! It’s known as a Southern favorite that’s full of chocolate and marshmallow goodness!  CLICK HERE for the recipe.

WHAT TO DRINK?

Have you ever had a Bushwacker? No, but I had his second cousin in Hawaii (more about that later). It’s a very tasty drink that looks and tastes like a milkshake but don’t be deceived, it packs a wallop – it can be made with many types of liquor, but it’s usually made with rum. About 10 years ago, it became the party drinking staple in Nashville. The recipe is hard to pin down but it usually includes milk or ice cream and dropping a shot on top called a “floater” which can be anything from whiskey, coffee, peppermint or whatever.

To finish with flair: my Aloha drink was absolutely delicious but midway through the second one I had an urge to go headfirst (drink and all) into the pool. Sanity prevailed as I whispered to Peter, “Just get me back up to the room.” Be aware, this drink sneaks up on you because it’s so delicious – but then, reality sets in.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick