I'll be honest, I used to dread rainy days in Nashville. But over time, I realized they can be some of the best days to explore the city a little differently. Instead of rushing from one sunny patio to another, I slow down, find cozy corners, and let the rain set the pace. Here's exactly how I like to spend a rainy day in Music City.
Morning Coffee at The Well
When I wake up to gray skies, my first stop is always The Well. There's something about walking in from the rain and being greeted by the smell of fresh coffee that just feels right. I'll grab a latte, find a corner seat, and let myself linger. Sometimes I flip through a book, other times I just watch the rain bead on the windows. It's the kind of start that makes the whole day feel unrushed.
Wandering Through Parnassus Books
From there, I head to Parnassus Books, one of my favorite spots in the city. On a rainy day, wandering the aisles feels like therapy. I'll drift between shelves, flip through staff recommendations, and usually end up with a book I never planned on buying. It's cozy, it's quiet, and it makes me feel like the weather outside is part of the experience.
Midday Inspiration at The Frist Art Museum
By late morning, I'm ready for something a little more inspiring, so I make my way to the Frist Art Museum. Walking through the galleries while the rain taps outside is magic. The building itself, with its art deco design, already feels like a work of art. I always stop by the Martin ArtQuest Gallery to try something hands-on. It feels good to create on a day that might otherwise tempt me to stay in.
Lunch at Sonny's
When my stomach finally reminds me it's lunchtime, I head to Sonny's. Rainy days call for comfort food, and their pasta always hits the spot. I love the way the place feels, warm, relaxed, and full of energy even when the weather outside is anything but.
Afternoon at The Country Music Hall of Fame
After lunch, I'll usually wander downtown and spend the afternoon at the Country Music Hall of Fame. It doesn't matter how many times I go, I always find myself surprised at how much there is to take in. Walking through the exhibits while the rain pours outside just adds to the experience. There's something about hearing stories of musicians who shaped this city while the weather forces you to slow down that feels really special.
Dinner at Henrietta Red
By evening, I like to finish the day with a cozy dinner, and Henrietta Red in Germantown is my go-to. Their oysters are the best in town, and the cocktails are exactly what I want on a chilly, rainy night. Sitting in that warm, welcoming space feels like the perfect way to end the day.
Final Thoughts
Rainy days in Nashville aren't something I avoid anymore. In fact, they've become some of my favorite times to really soak up the city. From books and art to cozy meals and music history, there's no shortage of things to do when the skies turn gray. If anything, the rain makes me slow down and appreciate it all a little more.
Sources: TheWellCoffeeHouse, Erica Robyn Readds, TheFristArtMuseum, Sonny's, Eventective, HenriettaRed