Spring Break: a time for rest, relaxation and not thinking about the homework that is due the week we come back. Whether you spend the week on a sunny beach or curled up back home with your dog, enjoy the time away from the hustle and bustle of your academic grind. For those staying here on campus, I have curated a list of must-see spots around the Nashville area. Grab your Commodore card, hop on a bus and have a blast on your Spring Break in Nashville.
Nashville Zoo
Located just eight miles from campus, the Nashville Zoo makes a perfect day trip to leave the Vanderbilt bubble and enjoy some fresh air. The zoo is home to over 3,000 animals representing 350 different species. Tickets start at $16, and with a quick Google maps search, you can get there using Nashville public transportation. While you are there, be sure to visit the flamingos (a.k.a the coolest zoo animal).
Predators Hockey Game
If you have not seen a concert or watched a hockey game at Bridgestone arena yet, are you even a Vandy student? If not, don’t worry. With three home games over Spring break, a Predators game is the perfect way to spend an evening inside. Located in the heart of “Smashville,” the Predators are a member of the NHL. Tickets start at about $30, and watching hockey players battle it out on the ice is a great way to let out some midterm aggression.
Women’s History Month at the Tennessee State Museum
March is Women’s History month and the Tennessee State Museum is offering tours to honor the women that have positively impacted the history of Tennessee. Located in downtown Nashville, the museum offers seven permanent exhibits and five temporary exhibits. Icons in Tennessee’s history include Cherokee leader Nancy Ward, First Lady Sarah Polk, Civil Rights activist Ida B. Wells and the queen of country herself, Dolly Parton. Paired with a bus ride with your Commodore card, this is a completely free outing that’s perfect for history majors and non-history majors alike.
Percy Priest Lake
Once the weather hits 70 degrees, it’s pretty hard to stay inside a tiny dorm all day. Take advantage of the beautiful early spring weather and check out Percy Priest lake and parks. Located just 20 minutes away from campus, Percy Priest is a man-made lake with several spots for boating, camping, fishing and many more nature-y activities. One popular activity (for those without a fear of heights, at least) is to go cliff jumping. The Smith Springs public use area is a perfect spot for some adventurous jumpers. Grab some friends and make a day out of it.
Franklin, TN
For those staying on campus but still want to feel like they are leaving, make a day trip down to Franklin, TN. Downtown Franklin offers cute boutiques, restaurants and even a plant store for those with a green thumb. While you’re at it, take advantage of the spring weather (notice my itch for the beautiful weather) and play a round of disc golf at Liberty Park. 84 acres and 10 holes will make for a perfect day in the park. Pack yourself a charcuterie picnic and enjoy the immaculate vibe.
