Summer is the perfect season to explore new destinations, and Nashville, Tennessee, offers an incredible array of activities for every traveler. One standout spot that combines luxury, entertainment, and unique experiences is the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center. Nestled along the banks of the Cumberland River, this resort is more than just a place to stay—it's a destination in itself. We love it so much, that We’ve made it a family tradition to visit here every summer and during the holidays!

Whether you're planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, Gaylord Opryland promises a memorable summer experience.

A Grand Overview of Gaylord Opryland Resort

Luxurious Accommodations

Gaylord Opryland Resort boasts over 2,800 guest rooms, including 174 suites, each designed to provide a comfortable and luxurious retreat after a day full of adventures. Rooms are equipped with modern amenities and offer views of the lush indoor gardens or the scenic riverfront. We really enjoy when we upgrade to the atrium room views. You will get access to a balcony with incredible views of the resort!

Indoor Gardens and Cascades

One of the most unique features of Gaylord Opryland is its nine acres of indoor gardens and cascading waterfalls. The Delta, Garden Conservatory, and Cascades Atriums are lush, climate-controlled spaces that offer a serene escape from the summer heat. Stroll through the paths lined with tropical plants, marvel at the waterfalls, and take a relaxing boat ride through the indoor river.

Summer Activities at Gaylord Opryland

• Delta Riverboats

  The resort offers several different cruise options that will take you on a scenic ride through the resort. We always enjoy this, but if you’re a first time consider this one a must do. You can learn some fun facts about the resort along the way. Right now they are offering a special nighttime cruise called Around We Glow. They’ll hand you glow sticks prior to boarding and you get to pick fun music to listen to while you ride! We all had fun changing up the music and enjoying the gorgeous view along the way.

• Adventure Kids Scavenger Hunt

  Purchase a scavenger hunt book that will take you on an adventure through Delta Island. You’ll follow the clues searching for hidden gems. Find them all and take your book back to where you board the Delta Riverboats and you’ll be rewarded with a fun prize! This is a great activity to explore the resorts and learn your way around a bit. The property is very large and it may take a little bit to get your bearings. What better way to explore than with a fun scavenger hunt?!

• SoundWaves Water Experience

  SoundWaves is Gaylord Opryland’s premier indoor/outdoor water attraction, perfect for summer fun. This upscale water experience spans four acres and includes a variety of water slides, a lazy river, wave pools, and adult-only areas for those seeking a quieter experience. SoundWaves combines the thrill of water activities with the comfort of upscale amenities, ensuring an enjoyable experience for guests of all ages. If you get hungry while you are here make sure to check out deciBels, they have some yummy options and are conveniently located inside SoundWaves! The only way to ensure your tickets at SoundWaves is to make sure that you book the SoundWaves Experience Package when you book your room. During the summer they have a special event called Late Night at SoundWaves where the night will be illuminated and you’ll find some activities.

Spa and Wellness

If relaxation is on your agenda, the Relâche Spa & Salon offers a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. Indulge in a soothing massage, a revitalizing facial, or a manicure/pedicure. The spa also features a fitness center equipped with modern exercise machines and free weights, ensuring you can maintain your fitness routine even while on vacation.

Culinary Delights at Gaylord Opryland

No stay at Gaylord Opryland is complete without indulging in its diverse culinary offerings. The resort features more than 15 restaurants, cafes, and bars, each offering unique flavors and dining experiences.

Jack Daniel’s Restaurant

Jack Daniel’s is one of the standout dining options at Gaylord Opryland. This Southern-inspired restaurant celebrates the rich heritage of Tennessee’s famous whiskey. From the moment you step inside, the warm, rustic décor and the inviting ambiance set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. We always like to kick off our first night at Gaylord Opryland here! Often times they have live music which makes the atmosphere here even better.

Famous Fried Pickles

A visit to Jack Daniel’s wouldn’t be complete without trying their famous fried pickles. These tangy dill pickles are lightly breaded and fried to perfection, offering a delightful crunch with every bite. Served with a side of creamy ranch dressing, they make for an irresistible appetizer or snack. The combination of the tartness of the pickles, the crispy coating, and the cool, savory dip is a taste sensation that has visitors returning again and again. If you don’t have time to sit down and dine here during your visit, I suggest ordering to-go at the bar. These are definitely a must try! I’ve tried to duplicate these outside of Nashville and none of them are as good.

Evening Entertainment

As the sun sets, Gaylord Opryland transforms into a vibrant hub of entertainment. The resort offers a variety of evening activities to ensure your nights are as exciting as your days. The resort truly lights up at night with gorgeous lights throughout, it is so beautiful!

Live Music and Shows

Nashville is known as Music City, and Gaylord Opryland embraces this heritage by offering live music performances throughout the resort. From intimate acoustic sets in the atriums to lively performances at the various bars and lounges, there’s always music to enjoy. Every time we visit we are always pleasantly surprised by the live music. Our little ones usually want to stop and dance!

Nearby Attractions

While Gaylord Opryland offers plenty to keep you entertained, Nashville’s top attractions are just a short distance away.

• Grand Ole Opry - No trip to Nashville is complete without a visit to the Grand Ole Opry, located adjacent to the resort. This iconic venue is the heart of country music and hosts weekly live performances by some of the genre’s biggest stars. Take a backstage tour to learn about the history of the Opry and see where the magic happens.

• Opry Mills Mall - For a shopping spree, head to Opry Mills Mall, located next to the resort. This expansive shopping center features a wide range of stores, from high-end retailers to outlet shops, as well as a variety of dining options and entertainment venues, including an IMAX theater.

• General Jackson Showboat - Experience the charm of the Cumberland River with a cruise on the General Jackson Showboat. This paddlewheel riverboat offers daytime and evening cruises that include live entertainment and Southern cuisine. It’s a wonderful way to see Nashville from a different perspective.

Tips for a Memorable Stay

To make the most of your summer stay at Gaylord Opryland, consider the following tips:

1. Book Early - Summer is a popular time to visit, so book your accommodations and activities in advance to ensure availability.

2. Take Advantage of Packages - The resort offers various packages that bundle accommodations, dining, and activities, providing great value for your stay. Remember the only way to guarantee admission into SoundWaves is to book the SoundWaves Experience Package.

3. Stay Hydrated - Nashville can get hot in the summer, so make sure to drink plenty of water and take breaks in the indoor atriums to cool off.

4. Explore the Grounds - Spend time exploring the resort’s extensive grounds and indoor gardens. There’s always something new to discover, from hidden nooks to stunning water features.

5. Engage with Staff - The resort’s staff are friendly and knowledgeable. Don’t hesitate to ask for

Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, TN, offers an unparalleled summer experience. With its luxurious accommodations, diverse dining options, including the exceptional Jack Daniel’s restaurant and its famous fried pickles, and a wealth of activities and entertainment, it’s the perfect destination for travelers of all ages. Whether you’re soaking up the sun at SoundWaves, exploring the indoor gardens, or enjoying live music in the evening, your summer at Gaylord Opryland is sure to be unforgettable. There’s definitely a reason we keep coming back! It’s close enough to more fun in Nashville but has everything inside the resort for a great time so you don’t even have to leave for an amazing vacation! Plan your visit today and discover why this resort is a beloved Nashville landmark.

Feel free to ask me anything about the resort and I’ll do my best to answer! If you’d like to see some of what Gaylord Orpyland offers during the holidays, check out this post here!