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Evolution@Vanderbilt

General Info about Nashville

Travel and Transportation:

  • Airport: Nashville International Airport (BNA) is the main airport serving the city, offering flights to major domestic and international destinations.
  • Public Transport: Nashville’s public transportation system includes buses operated by WeGo Public Transit. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available.
  • Driving: Nashville has several parking options downtown, and the city is relatively easy to navigate by car. However, traffic can be heavy during peak hours.
  • Walking/Biking: Downtown Nashville is pedestrian-friendly, and bike rental services like BCycle are available.

Dining and Cuisine:

  • Southern Cuisine: Nashville is famous for its food, especially hot chicken, barbecue, and biscuits. Restaurants like Prince’s Hot Chicken and Hattie B’s are popular spots for local specialties.
  • Diverse Dining: The city also boasts diverse culinary options, including international cuisine (Thai, Mexican, Italian, etc.), vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants, and farm-to-table eateries.
  • Breweries and Coffee Shops: Nashville is home to several craft breweries, such as Yazoo Brewing Company, and specialty coffee shops like Barista Parlor.

Entertainment and Culture:

  • Music Scene: Known as “Music City,” Nashville is renowned for its live music venues, including the historic Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman Auditorium, and honky-tonks on Broadway. Visitors can enjoy country, rock, blues, and more.
  • Museums and Art: Participants interested in history and culture can explore the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Frist Art Museum, and the Tennessee State Museum.
  • Local Events: Summer in Nashville offers various festivals and events. Participants might enjoy checking out local music or food festivals.

Parks and Outdoor Activities:

  • Centennial Park: Near Vanderbilt, this park features the Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the Athenian Parthenon, beautiful walking trails, and spaces for outdoor recreation.
  • Greenways: Nashville’s greenways offer scenic walking and biking paths along the Cumberland River and through natural areas.
  • Radnor Lake: A short drive from downtown, this state park offers hiking trails and wildlife viewing.

Local Attractions:

  • Broadway: The heart of Nashville’s entertainment district, featuring live music, bars, and restaurants.
  • Vanderbilt University: The conference will take place on campus, and participants can explore the university’s historical landmarks, living arboretum, and nearby neighborhoods like Hillsboro Village.
  • The Gulch: A trendy neighborhood known for its restaurants, shops, and art installations.

Weather:

  • July Weather: Summers in Nashville are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the 80s and 90s (Fahrenheit). Participants should dress light and stay hydrated.

Looking for something to do with some free time? We suggest heading across West End Ave at a cross walk to Centennial Park. There is a scale replica of the Parthenon, some nice walking trails around a small lake, and even the “Taylor Swift Bench.”