
Five Star Insider: Nashville
our friends at VIPdesk

Local expert information on the area's museums, family attractions, entertainment venues and more
What sedan service do you recommend?
LimoLink
1660 42nd St NE, Cedar Rapids IA 52402, 319.247.5479
LimoLink, one of the world's largest transportation services, has over 7,000 vehicles to serve you in over 500 cities! Choose from their fleet of limousines and chauffeured sedans, vans, mini-buses and motor coaches - all available for airport pickup and dropoff services, aviation transfers, tours and special occasions. Reservations can be made online or by calling them directly.
HOURS,24 Hours
Signature Limousine
40 Music Sq E, Nashville TN 37202, 615.365.7055
Signature Limousine is one of Nashville's most dependable and reputable sedan, limousine and van services. Their reasonable rates are based on the number of people traveling as well as the distance you plan to travel. Signature Limousine prides themselves on their upstanding service, including such benefits as making dinner reservations, picking up flowers and other small tasks.
HOURS 24 Hours
Capitol Limousines, Inc.
2975 Elm Hill Pke, Nashville TN 37214, 615.883.6777
Capitol Limousines, one of Nashville's most reputable sedan and limousine services, offers sedans, stretch limousines, Suburbans, 15-passenger vans and cargo vans. They offer services to Nashville, Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky and beyond. Rates are calculated on a case-by-case basis. The staff is dependable as well as professional. Capitol Limousines is an active member of the National Limousine Association.
HOURS,24 Hours
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Can you recommend a good museum or gallery?
Don F. Pratt Museum
Fort Campbell, Ft. Campbell KY 42223, 270.798.3215
The Don F. Pratt Museum offers a look into the lives of those involved in the famous 101st Airborne Division during World War II, as well as information regarding other periods of war. This extensive collection includes war artifacts, uniforms, airplanes, helicopters and more. In addition, hear private stories of those who gave their lives in the name of freedom. Admission is free.
HOURS,Daily 9:30am-4:30pm
Fort Nashborough
170 1st Ave N, Nashville TN 37201,615.862.8400
Take a 20-minute guided tour through Fort Nashborough in Riverfront Park, a small but authentic replica of the original settlement of Nashville. Visitors to this historic site get the opportunity see first-hand how the frontier pioneers lived and fought for survival during the 1700s. Free admission.
HOURS T-Sun 9:00am-4:00pm
Tennessee Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
598 James Robertson Pkwy, Nashville TN 37219,615.741.5280
The Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park is a great place to learn about the history of Tennessee. Located by the State Capitol in downtown Nashville, this 19-acre park offers 31 fountains and a 2,000-seat amphitheater. The park is known for its World War II Memorial, which is an 18, 000-pound black granite globe, which sits in a small pool of water emitted by the globe's pedestal. Park rangers are available for group tours or questions. Also in the park: picnic tables, vending machines, Visitor's Center, and a gift shop.
HOURS,Daily 6:00am-10:00pm
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Frist Center for the Visual Arts
919 Broadway, Nashville TN 37203, 615.244.3340
The Frist Center for the Visual Arts, housed in the old Post Office Building downtown, is considered by many to be Nashville's greatest fine arts museum. Admission is free to members and children age 18 and under. Non-member admission is $6.50 for adults, and $4.50 for seniors (65+) and college students with ID.
HOURS,M-Sat 10:00am-5:30pm, Th 10:00am-8:00pm, Sun 1:00pm-5:00pm
Cheekwood Botanical Gardens and Museum
1200 Forrest Park Dr, Nashville TN 37205, 615.356.8000
The Museum of Art at Cheekwood Botanical Gardens features a permanent collection of over 8,000 works of American art, Contemporary art, and European and American Decorative arts. Upcoming exhibitions - Festival of the Holidays: Cheekwood is for Children (ends Jan 2, 2005), and The Art of Celebrity: Glamour Photography, 1930-1960 (ends Jan 2, 2005). Admission to the museum and gardens is free to members. Non-member admission to the museum and gardens is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $5 for youths (age 6-17) and college students with ID. Admission is half-price after 3pm.
HOURS,T-Sat 9:30am-4:30pm, Sun 11:00am-4:30pm, Closed M and major holidays
Van Vechten Gallery
Corner of Jackson and DB Todd Blvd - Fisk University, Nashville TN 37208, 615.329.8720
The Van Vechten Gallery at Fisk University houses a permanent collection of works by such renowned American and European artists as Cezanne, Picasso, Renoir, and O'Keeffe - just to name a few. The gallery also presents traveling exhibitions from around the nation. Admission is free but donations are greatly appreciated.
HOURS,T-F 10:00am-5:00pm, Sat-Sun 1:00pm-5:00pm, Closed M
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Can you provide me with suggestions for a romantic time?
Arthur's
1001 Broadway, Nashville TN 37203, 615.255.1494
One of the most romantic restaurants in Nashville, is Arthur's. Located off the lobby of the upscale Union Station Hotel, this fine dining restaurant offers a formal atmosphere, with exquisite service and food. The seven-course prix fixe dinner is done to perfection. The menu changes daily, but a few favorites include rack of lamb, veal chops, and rainbow trout. The Bananas Foster is legendary. The decor is upscale with lace curtains, white linen and fine silver service on the table. Reservations are required.
HOURS,M-Th 5:30pm-10:00pm, F-Sat 5:30pm-11:00pm, Sun 5:30pm-9:00pm
PRICE, $$$$$
Belle Meade Plantation
5025 Harding Rd, Nashville TN, 615.356.0501
Visit lovely Belle Meade Plantation, a popular attraction that offers a glimpse into Nashville's historic past. Tour the Antebellum Mansion, its carriage house and stables, the plantations seven historic outbuildings and antique carriage collection, and dine in the plantations fine restaurant. Admission is $10 adults, $8.50 seniors, $4 for children (ages 6-12), and free for children under the age of 6.
HOURS,Daily: M-Sat 9:00am-5:00pm, Sun 11:00am-5:00pm; Evenings: Th-Sat 6:00pm-8:00pm
General Jackson Showboat
2808 Opry Mill Dr, Nashville TN 37214, 615.871.6100
Spend a romantic morning or evening aboard General Jackson Showboat, a four-deck paddlewheeler that features live entertainment and fine dining! Guests enjoy a full-fledged stage production during their 3-hour cruise, and music by talented musicians who stroll along the boats various decks. Morning cruises, complete with a Southern-style breakfast buffet are $34 per person. Nighttime cruises featuring a 3-course prime rib dinner are $54 per person (prices subject to change).
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What is a favorite jazz spot?
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F. Scott's Jazz Club and Restaurant
2210 Crestmoor Rd, Nashville TN 37215, 615.269.5861
Head to F. Scott's Jazz Club and restaurant featuring musical artists and groups such as the Rebecca Sayre Trio, Birdsong Quartet, Teren Bose and the Swing Set, and others. Enjoy superb American cuisine in the dining room, then head to the lounge for a specialty drink and to listen to some of the finest jazz in the area. No cover. Dress is upscale casual. Dinner reservations recommended. Wine lovers enjoy wine tasting every Monday evening from 6pm-7:30pm featu ring selections from their impressive wine cellar. The cost is $10 per person and includes a 20% off coupon for dinner.
HOURS,F-Sat 5:30pm-11:00pm, Sun-Th 5:30pm-10:00pm
PRICE,$$$
Can you recommend a local comedy club?
Zanies Comedy Club
2025 8th Ave S, Nashville TN 37204, 615.269.0221
Zanies Comedy Club has featured some of the nations finest comedians. Upcoming headliners: Earthquake (Dec 5 & 6), Jon Reep (Dec 8-12), J Medicine Hat (Dec 13 & 14), and Killer Beaz (Dec 15-19). You must be 18 years of age and over for admittance, and 21 and over to drink alcoholic beverages (ID required). Call 615.269.0221 or visit Zanies web site for additional information.
HOURS,Show times: W, Th , Sun 8:00pm, F 8:00pm & 10:15pm, Sat 7:00pm, 9:00pm , 11:15
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Are there any wineries in the area offering tours and/or wine tasting?
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Beachaven Vineyards & Winery
1100 Dunlop Lane, Clarksville TN ,931.645.8867
Beachaven Vineyards & Winery has won over 200 regional, national and international awards for its delicious wines. Some of their popular wine varieties include Merlot, Blush, Blackberry, Heavenly Peach, and even champagne. This fine winery offers free tours and wine tasting, and jazz concerts on their lawn during the summer months. Be sure to bring a picture ID if tasting or purchasing wine.
HOURS,Tasting and tours: M-Sat 9:00am-6:00pm, Sun noon-5:00pm
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Sumner Crest Winery & Vineyard
5306 Old Highway 52, Portland TN 37148 ,; 615.325.4086
Sumner Crest Winery & Vineyard, just a short drive from Portland, is an award-winning winery and gift shop. Their wine selections vary from sweet dessert wines to floral and classic varieties. Visit their web site f or a listing of upcoming outdoor concerts and events.
HOURS,May 1 - Dec 1: M-Sat 9:00am-6:00pm, Sun noon-5:00pm; Jan 1-Apr 30: M-Sat 9:00am-5:00pm, Sun noon-4:00pm
Can you give me a few recommendations for a weekend getaway?
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The Hermitage - Home of Andrew Jackson
4580 Rachel's Ln, Hermitage TN 37076, 615.889.2941
The Hermitage - Home of Andrew Jackson has been lovingly restored in honor of the man himself, his inspiring life, and his wife and family. Be sure to see the current exhibit - The Art of Storytelling (ends June 13, 2004). Admission is $12 for adults, $11 for seniors and students (age 12-18), and $5 for children (age 6-12). Free to children under age 6. Group rates available. Enjoy a fine lunch at Cafe Monell's, located on the premises. Hermitage is just 20 minutes east of Nashville.
HOURS,Daily: 9:00am-5:00pm. Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
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Chattanooga
Chattanooga TN 37402, 423.756.8687
Spend the weekend in Chattanooga, a bustling town located just a short drive from Nashville. While in Chattanooga, visit the Tennessee Aquarium (800.262.0695), Rock City Gardens (706.820.2531), Chattanooga Zoo (423.697.1322), and of course the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo (800.872.2529). Popular B and Bs include the grand Casa Grande del Rio (1410 O'Grady Rd / 423.821.1077), the quaint Chanticleer Inn (1300 Mockingbird Lane / 706.820.2002), and the romantic Garden Walk Inn (1206 Lula Lake Rd / 706. 820.4127). For tourist info, call 423.756.8687 or visit the Chattanooga tourism website.
Memphis
Memphis TN . 901.543.5300
Why not head to Memphis this weekend to visit such famous attractions as Graceland (800.238.2000), the elaborately-decorated home and burial ground of Elvis Presley; the famous Memphis Rock & Soul Museum (901.543.0800), and Mud Island River Park (800.507.6507). Stay at the Talbot He irs Guesthouse (99 S Second St / 901.527.9722), a trendy boutique hotel, or at the romantic Bridgewater House B & B (7015 Raleigh LaGrange Rd, Cordova / 901.384.0080). For tourist info, call 901.543.5300 or visit the Memphis tourism website.
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Where are the best places to keep children entertained during the day/evening?
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Adventure Science Center
800 Fort Negley Blvd, Nashville TN 37203,615.862.5160
Adventure Science Center in Nashville teaches how science can be fun through the use of interactive exhibits, science programs, planetarium shows, the new Adventure Tower, Blue Max flight simulator, and much more. Admission is $8.75 for adults, and $6.75 for children (age 3-12) and seniors (age 65+). Admission for Sudekum Planetarium is just $3.50 per show (or $2 with general admission), and Blue Max rides are $5 for non-members and $4 for members.
HOURS,M-Th 10:00am-5:00pm, F-Sat 10:00am-7:00pm, Sun 12:30pm-5:30pm
The Racing Experience
507 Opry Mills Dr, Nashville TN 37214,615.514.7223
The Racing Experience, through the use of a driving simulator equipped with a clutch, gas and brake pedal, steering wheel and gearshift, gives visitors the opportunity to feel what its like to drive a real stock car! Racers must be at least 52 inches tall, 4 years of age and a minimum of 40 pounds. Rides last 20-minutes (includes the instructional video in the transporter, and the race lasting an exhilarating seven to eight minutes). Stop buttons are included to end your race.
