NASHVILLE, TN - So, a grape, a pear, and an apple walk into a bar in Nashville… What do you think happens? A cocktail showcasing the fruits of our labor is enjoyed with great company, that’s what! If you are finding yourself overwhelmed by all of the opportunities to enjoy your stay while networking your heart out at this year’s Southern Innovations, fear not! AndNowUKnow has done the dirty work for you and sifted through the onslaught of suggestions to find some great contenders to fill your spare time spent with friends, both old and new.

According to the U.S. News and World Report, these three cultural destinations are must-sees when in Music City.

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

This venue and educational institution is proof positive that there is much to love about the music scene. According to the The City of Nashville, the Hall of Fame is the "world’s largest popular music museum [and] offers ever-changing exhibits featuring the legends of country music past and today’s hottest stars."

Patrons buy locally made gifts in one of the Museum's two retail stores and even dine inside the museum at 2|22 Eatery, a full-service restaurant serving Southern favorites, or at Bajo Sexto, a taqueria.

Johnny Cash Museum

Visitors can pay homage to the Man in Black at The Johnny Cash Museum located on 3rd Avenue. Featuring the most comprehensive collection of Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia in the world, the Johnny Cash Museum claims to be THE Cash venue for visitors of all ages.

And on the second floor of the same building, at 119 Third Ave South, is The Patsy Cline Museum which holds never before seen artifacts from the songstress, and if your country fix still hasn't been satiated, check out George Jones on 2nd Avenue

Get in with the Locals at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge

There are few who can resist the temptation to move and shake with country music in the air. I’m going to grab my clogging shoes, and I’ll meet you on the dance floor!

Thrillist tells readers to check out these restaurants, so if you are feeling hungry, why don’t you see how these star chefs are dishing up produce and more

Geist

Get a little history lesson with your tasty bites at this location, which resides in an old blacksmiths’ shop—it doesn’t get cooler than that! And there is something for everyone here, because the menu boasts of international influences.

Woolworth on 5^th

This popular spot looks to the past when it creates dishes for your future, as it sits in what was at one time a Civil Rights lunch counter protest spot. It now offers a music floor in addition to its lively dining scene. What’s not to love about that?

Nada

Yesterday, today, tomorrow… I love Mexican food every day. Be sure to check out the upscale tacqueria for colorful dishes that are works of art in their own right!

The state’s very own Tennessean dives into 102 free offerings in the Athens of the South.

Feel the Rush of Renaissance at Shakespeare in the Park

When you leave the show floor, keep the party going with a different kind of live entertainment. If you’re a fan of Shakespeare, check out one of the last Shakespeare in the Park productions of the season this Saturday. 

Check out a Taping of Pickler & Ben

It may be too late to make plans, but if you have time to kill and want to tap into the pulse of Nashville’s and its region’s lifestyle, stop by a live taping. You can find information on that experience and more here.

Check out Local Art Galleries

Take your pick!

• The Arts Company
• Local Color
• Art & Invention gallery
• LeQuire Gallery and Studio
• Haynes Galleries
• Sarratt Gallery at Vanderbilt University
• Vanderbilt University Fine Arts Gallery
• Fisk University galleries
• Leu Gallery at Belmont University
• Centennial Art Center in Centennial Park

Where will you be having fun during your stay?