Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center: Inside Nashville’s Indoor Wonderland

Travel

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Every time I visit Nashville, I’m reminded why they call it Music City. It’s creative. It’s alive. It hums with energy. But on this recent trip—while attending the Annual National Religious Broadcasters gathering—I discovered something new: you can experience an entire version of Nashville without ever stepping outside.

That’s what staying at Opryland feels like.

This massive resort and conference complex isn’t just a hotel. It’s a biodome. A self-contained village. A world under glass. Inside, you’ll find winding rivers, waterfalls, tropical plants, bridges, cafés, and quiet corners that make you forget you’re in the middle of a major American city.

Mornings often began with coffee at the Cascades Atrium—light filtering through glass ceilings, water tumbling nearby, conversations drifting softly across the space. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, even when your schedule says otherwise.

And if you never leave the property? You wouldn’t feel deprived. Not for a second.

Dining Under Glass and Under Stars

One of the great pleasures of Opryland is Old Hickory Steakhouse - Nashville. This is classic steakhouse excellence—rich woods, attentive service, and food that respects tradition. I had the pleasure of dining there and even spent part of the evening teaching our incredibly gracious server, Loring, how to make my favorite aperitif. That’s the kind of hospitality you find here—professional, personal, and genuinely kind.

Also on property is Ravello Italian Restaurant at Gaylord Opryland, where I enjoyed a wonderful meal with fellow journalists. Their short rib–stuffed pope’s hats pasta was nothing short of spectacular—rich, tender, and layered with flavor that stayed with you long after the plate was cleared. It’s Italian comfort food elevated with craftsmanship, served in an atmosphere that feels both relaxed and refined.

When I ventured off campus, Nashville’s culinary depth continued to impress.

At Iggy’s of Nashville, the shaved truffle tortellini reminded me why Italian cuisine remains undefeated when it comes to comfort and elegance working together.

And then there’s Audrey—a modern Southern masterpiece. The mushrooms topped with Wendell cheese were so good they practically rewired my brain. This is thoughtful cooking, rooted in heritage but executed with imagination.

A City Built for Big Moments

Nashville understands gatherings. Opryland regularly hosts some of the largest conferences in the country, and during NRB week, the place pulsed with conversations about faith, media, and culture. Yet even in the midst of thousands of attendees, it never felt overwhelming. The design absorbs crowds. The spaces breathe.

It’s hospitality engineered with intention.

Traveling with Kids? Here’s What They’ll Love

If you’re traveling as a family, Nashville delivers:

• Country Music Hall of Fame — Interactive, engaging, and surprisingly fun for all ages
• Grand Ole Opry — A living piece of American music history
• Nashville Zoo — One of the region’s best
• Broadway at Night — Neon, music, and energy (early evening is best for kids)

Why Nashville Keeps Calling Me Back

Music City always feels worth the time.

It balances tradition and reinvention. It honors its roots without being trapped by them. Whether you’re walking under glass at Opryland, sharing pasta with colleagues, or discovering flavors that surprise you, Nashville meets you where you are—and then lifts you higher.

It’s a city that knows how to host, how to feed, how to listen, and how to welcome.

And that’s why I’ll keep coming back.