Story originally appeared on Club Wyndham.
Turn your travel playlist into a vacation. Whether you’re in the mood for a music-themed adventure or just looking for some local entertainment to add to your itinerary, the U.S. is jam-packed with musical attractions, history, and events. From all-night honky-tonks in Tennessee to rooftop concerts in New York, when it comes to music-themed destinations, these five cities top the charts.
1. Nashville, Tennessee
With nicknames like Music City ad the Songwriting Capital of the World, it’s no surprise that Nashville boasts worldwide recognition as a premier music destination in America. Nashville’s claim to fame is steeped in a rich musical legacy from the Fisk Jubilee Singers to Dolly Parton. Tour historic and world-famous music venues like the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium. Explore original recordings, costumes, and instruments of music legends at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum . Stroll The Music City Walk of Fame and Music Garden on Nashville’s Music Mile. Visit the famous Honky Tonk Highway for over 180 clubs and bars pumping out live music from 10 a.m. to 3 a.m.
2. Austin, Texas
For a world-class local music scene, head to the Live Music Capital of the World. From rock and blues to hip-hop and folk, Austin’s music culture is as diverse as the musicians who call it home. Choose your vibe from over 250 live music venues, each showcasing an eclectic array of musical entertainment and atmosphere. Catch the industry’s hottest headliners at Moody Center . Sip cocktails and soak up some blues at Antone’s . Tour the setting for Austin City Limits , the longest-running music series in American television history. Discover underground artists at the nightclubs and intimate stages of Austin’s Red River Cultural District .
3. New Orleans, Louisiana
Whether it’s the sultry croon of a street corner trombone wafting through Jackson Square, or the carefree patter of a banjo from a Bourbon Street pub, a passion for music runs deep in the Big Easy. The birthplace of jazz and a cultural hub of African, French, and Spanish influence, the city pulsates with a unique sound only found in NOLA. Celebrate the history and culture of Dixieland Jazz on a tour of the New Orleans Jazz Museum or listen to live jazz while gliding along the Mississippi River on a scenic steamboat cruise . Saunter down Frenchmen Street for nightly live music and authentic New Orleans haunts, like the eclectic lineup at d.b.a or local brass bands at The Maison .
4. New York City, New York
When it comes to musical landmarks and legends, no list is complete without the Big Apple. The city’s roots in musical entertainment run deep and countless artists have credited their inspiration and big break to old New York. Home to some of the nations most iconic musical attractions and the cradle of genres like musical theater, swing, and punk rock, New York is a dynamic destination for music-lovers of all styles. Go behind the scenes on a guided tour of the world-renowned Carnegie Music Hall. Attend a concert or Rockette performance at historic Radio City Music Hall . Enjoy fresh air and fresh sounds at The Rooftop at Pier 17s concert events . Take a Walk on the Wild Side for a tour of punk rock’s beginnings in Greenwich Village.
5. Seattle, Washington
Embrace your inner rock star in the Emerald City. Seattle’s reputation for roasted grounds can also be extended to raucous grunge. The birthplace of rock legend Jimi Hendrix, and stomping grounds of local luminaries like Nirvana and Pearl Jam, Seattle is an experimental mecca for indie and alternative rock music. Experience immersive exhibits about Seattle music icons and history at the Museum of Pop Culture . Explore the world’s most extensive collection of Nirvana memorabilia. Follow the journey of Jimi Hendrix’s rise to fame through a vibrant gallery featuring rare recordings and personal artifacts. Tour the museums Guitar Gallery and discover the history and legacy of rock instruments.
