Best Outdoor Hangouts in Nashville
Nashville has some of the most beautiful natural views and outdoor hangs. With miles of trails, stunning lakeside views and exciting sporting and music festivals, you'll have a good time every second you're here. If you're looking for unique outdoor experiences, dining recommendations or special events, Teddy's guide to Nashville outdoor hangouts will make your trip unforgettable.
Whether you want to kick your boots up and relax or get your blood pumping with adrenaline-filled activities, Nashville has everything you need. Here are some of the best things to do outdoors in Music City:
Enjoy a Delicious Meal With a View
If you're looking for the best place to eat outside in Nashville, Teddy's Tavern has a rooftop rose garden that's set atop Broadway's oldest building. The iconic location, paired with the delicious food, live music and craft beers, makes Teddy's Tavern a community favorite. If you don’t take a rooftop selfie, did you even go out in Music City? Teddy’s is the proof.
Here's what makes us one of the best outdoor bars in Nashville:
Juicy burgers: Our burgers are bold and packed with Southern flavors. We exclusively use ⅓ lb certified Black Angus beef, courtesy of our partners at E3 Ranch. Try our signature Teddy's cheeseburger with 6 ounces of premium beef topped with all the fixins — sharp cheddar, crispy pickles and fresh onions.
Local musicians: We spotlight local songwriters and performers so you can enjoy the best local music and maybe find your new favorite upcoming artist! Sip on a cold one while you enjoy the smooth feel that Music City has to offer. Be sure to check out our calendar to see which artists will be playing at Teddy's when you visit.
Specialty beers: Our specialty beers come from Fat Bottom Brewing Co., which is Nashville's original craft brewery. Be sure to try our limited-release Teddy Loves series, featuring unique aromas and bold flavors you won't find anywhere else.
Skyline views: Our rooftop bar offers views of some of Nashville's most iconic buildings. Kick your feet back, sip a cold beer and take in the gorgeous views.
Deep-fried Oreos: Need we say more? (No, really — get two!)
Take in the Natural Scenery at Nashville’s Highland Rim Forest
The Highland Rim Forest encompasses 127,000 acres of stunning natural scenery. The beautiful hiking trails and lush canopy that cradle the landscape make this one of Nashville's best outdoor spots. Beaman Park is a fun and structured way to explore the forest. With primitive trails and pristine wilderness to explore, you'll never be bored.
The Highland Rim Forest offers opportunities for exciting outdoor activities, including hiking, birdwatching, waterfall hunting and boating. Typically, Spring is the best time to visit to enjoy the outdoors and see some unique wildflowers and wildlife. Winter is also great for eagle spotting and increased visibility from the treetop boardwalk.
Splash Things up at the Lakes
Nashville has three gorgeous lakes to visit — Old Hickory Lake, Radnor Lake and Percy Priest Lake. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day at the water or craving some action and adventure, there’s something for everyone on the water. Here’s a breakdown on what makes these lakes so special:
Old Hickory Lake: This lake is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and it offers tons of adrenaline-pumping activities. Hike through the diverse wildlife, go boating along the Cumberland River or enjoy a swim through the pristine waters.
Radnor Lake: Set in the beautiful Oak Hill community, this lake is home to abundant plant and animal species. The lake offers scenic hiking trails and opportunities to observe wildlife through guided tours.
Priest Lake: If you’re looking for tons of water activities, Percy Priest has a wide variety. You can swim, canoe, boat, and fish for the finest largemouth bass in the state of Tennessee. Fishing is a top activity at this lake because anglers can catch a variety of fish like crappie, bream, rockfish and catfish.
Bust Out Your Moves at Outdoor Music Events
Pack your dancin' shoes, because Nashville is nicknamed Music City for a reason. It has some of the most talented local musicians across a variety of genres, from rock and country to hip-hop and pop. Musicians Corner is a free outdoor concert series where the community comes together to support local artists and enjoy food and drinks from local food trucks. It takes place on specific dates through the Spring and Fall seasons, so be sure to check out the calendar to plan accordingly.
You can't throw a stone on Broadway without hitting live music, and Teddy's Tavern features live performances by artists at our bar, and we even host karaoke night so you can join in on the music and take to the stage if you want.
Catch the Action With Outdoor Events and Parks
From Monster Energy AMA Supercross to a Tennessee Titans game, this city is full of exciting outdoor events. You can catch your favorite sporting event live while enjoying the fresh air and sunshine that Nashville has to offer. You can also check out the Annual Nashville Outdoor Recreation Festival & Expo, where the community comes together to try fun activities and attend workshops and guided hikes.
Nashville prides itself on its beautiful parks, such as Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park and Centennial Park. These parks are set in the heart of the city and feature gorgeous rolling hills and cycling trails. Nashville’s 180-mile greenway system is the perfect place to really enjoy nature, with plenty of off-road trails weaving through the city.
Sink Your Teeth Into Nashville Flavor at Teddy’s Tavern
Teddy's Tavern is the perfect pit stop on the Honkey Tonk Highway. Cold beer. Hot burgers. End of story.
Our local ownership, unique historic space and standout food make us the place to be. Set in Nashville's oldest building within the heart of downtown, our three-floor bar brings the fun and excitement to every trip with zero tourist-trap nonsense. The Rose Garden Rooftop looks down over the Bridgestone Arena and features open-air seating and gorgeous Nashville views. As a local gem, all you have to do is tell your friends, “Meet Me at Teddy’s,” and they'll know exactly where to go.
Teddy's offers the complete Nashville experience — comfort food, cold drinks and foot-stompin' music — all under one roof. Whether you want to stop by for delicious food after a day out in the sun or book us for your corporate happy hours, vendor meetings or private events, just email hello@teddystaverntn.com to get started.
Check out our menu packed with Nashville favorites like juicy cheeseburgers, fried chicken sandwiches and deep-fried Oreos. We can't wait to meet you!
