Perhaps more so than any other season, fall is a time of quintessential activities to get fired up about. Everyone loves fall, and we’ve got a list of 7 things to do in Nashville to get you in the mood for fall. From events that will remind you of your childhood, to grown up fall activities, this list covers it all for fall.
1. Drink a seasonal local brew
Nashville has moved into the ranks of being named a brewery city, with more than 27 breweries and taprooms. It comes as no surprise that many of them feature a seasonal brew, including of course, a pumpkin ale. For this roundup, we’re featuring a few local favorites that are creative, craft, and utterly delicious. Give Jackalope Brewing’s Bearwalker a try—a hoppy brown ale brewed with maple syrup and chocolate malts. Or head to Yazoo Brewing for their Goo Goo Ale, which is brewed with cacao nibs, peanut butter, and vanilla beans. If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, try Southern Grist’s Crisp As Helles, a Helles style lager brewed with Hallertau Mittelfrüh. With biscuity characteristics, it’s the perfect transition between summer and fall.
2. Get festive at Cheekwood Botanical Gardens
In addition to their annual Cheekwood Harvest, which runs from September 18 through October 31, Cheekwood has a calendar full of seasonal happenings. Cheekwood Harvest features the Pumpkin House and Village, scarecrows throughout the gardens, as well as a fun lineup of food trucks, live music, and Thirsty Third Thursdays. Dress up your pup in costume for the Pooch Parade on October 23, and don’t miss El Día de los Muertos on October 30 and 31.
3. Catch a game
NFL is finally back, and there’s nothing more quintessential in fall than going to a game. Week one has officially kicked off, and single game tickets are on sale. Make it to a game this season and get in spirit with a beer in hand, dress in swag, and cheer on the Titans!
4. Go for a fall hike
We enjoyed the bright green forests all summer long, but now we’re ready to soak in the beauty of warm-colored leaves and trails padded with leaves. Within the city there’s Percy Warner, Radnor Lake, and Shelby Bottoms, but for our favorite hikes in and around Nashville, check out our blog, Nashville’s Top 5 Hiking Trails. Don’t forget to bring along a thermos of chai tea, and you’ll be set.
5. Sit by the fire
What might seem like an at-home activity is actually quite popular at many popular bars in the city. Branch out and visit some of Nashville’s best outdoor patios for a chance to sit fireside and cozy up for the cooling weather. Urban Cowboy, Diskin Cider, Zeppelin, and Pins Mechanical are all outdoor patios with fire pits for those looking to get social while enjoying this ultimate fall activity.
6. Visit your local farmers market
While you likely enjoyed your neighborhood farmers market this summer, it’s a whole new game come fall. With seasonal squash, fall treats, and great weather, fall is the best time of year to leisurely enjoy the farmers market. Visit the Nashville, 12 South, Richland Park, or East Nashville farmers market if you’re in the city—but be sure to search for your nearest farmers market, as there are many more than these few!
7. Celebrate Halloween with Boo at the Zoo
Extend your Halloween festivities to make the most of the season! The Nashville Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo takes place between October 15-17, and is an especially fun event for families. Enjoy fall-themed scenes and activities around the Zoo, trick-or-treating for kids, special animal shows, and more!
Did we miss your favorite local fall activity? Or perhaps your favorite seasonal brew or outdoor patio? Be sure to let us know so we can add it to the ever evolving list of things to do in Music City!