Express Way: What’s New in Nashville

Nashville has always been a city that sings, and as groups head to Music City in 2026, they’ll find a destination teeming with new and noteworthy group offerings, museum debuts, milestone anniversaries—and a city that never stops writing its next verse.

“ABA and its members are a valued part of Nashville’s story and success, and we continue to support group travel and the meaningful connections it creates,” says LouAnna Henton, senior director of tourism sales at the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp. “As we enter an exciting new era, Music City is preparing to celebrate landmark anniversaries, significant milestones, and newly celebrated attractions that will deliver fresh experiences and exciting new reasons for groups to return and celebrate with us year after year.”

Groups visiting the National Museum of African American Music can customize their experience with a guided tour, lodging, meals, and more.

Dolly Parton’s creative spirit flows through every room and suite of Nashville’s new SongTeller Hotel. Artistic details, thoughtful design, and unmistakable Southern warmth set the tone for every group’s stay.

The Grand Ole Opry 100th anniversary continues into 2026 with featured artists such as Vince Gill, Lainey Wilson, Luke Combs, Lauren Alaina, and Carly Pearce.

The Loveless Cafe is named after Lon and Annie Loveless, who began serving fried chicken and biscuits out of their home 75 years ago.

Dolly Parton’s SongTeller Hotel and Dolly’s Life of Many Colors Museum

No “verse” shines brighter than Tennessee’s own queen of rhinestones, Dolly Parton. From her Grand Ole Opry debut in 1959 to the hits that shaped the city’s sound, Dolly Parton’s legacy is central to Nashville’s story.

Opening in June, Dolly Parton’s SongTeller Hotel offers themed suites, a twilight tour, entertainment venues, and Dolly’s Life of Many Colors Museum highlighting each decade of her career. Visit songtellerhotel.com and dollyslifeofmanycolors.com/tickets for advance reservations and tickets.

Museum of Christian & Gospel Music

Just down the road, another powerful story takes center stage, told by the Museum of Christian & Gospel Music. Opened in fall 2025, it features exhibits honoring artists such as CeCe Winans, Keith Green, and Amy Grant. Groups can dive deep into the harmonies that shaped American gospel, explore the genre’s cultural influence, and take advantage of new guided tour options for faith-based travelers.

Nashville Riverboats

Launching spring 2026, Nashville Riverboats will offer authentic paddlewheel sightseeing and dining cruises on the Cumberland River—perfect for groups, special events, and corporate outings. With scenic views, Southern hospitality, and live music on deck, the family-friendly attraction is a memorable new way to experience Music City.

The Arcade

The historic Arcade district is tuning up for a new era. After an extensive two-year renovation, the city’s historic shopping center will welcome Show Stop this spring. The immersive music venue joins unique restaurants and retailers, such as Sushi by Scratch and Mimi + Dottie jewelry and clothing boutique.

Opry 100

The Grand Ole Opry celebrates its centennial through fall 2026 with special shows and group experiences. Pair an Opry 100 performance with the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s new “Muscle Shoals: Low Rhythm Rising” exhibit.

Milestones

Nashville’s 2026 anniversary lineup showcases a rich mix of cultural treasures:

• Loveless Cafe turns 75 with special citywide events such as the Jam Fest concert on Sept. 19.
• The Fisk Jubilee Singers celebrate 155 years of preserving and performing Negro spirituals.
• The National Museum of African American Music marks its fifth anniversary with expanded programming and customizable group experiences.
• The Frist Art Museum honors its 25th anniversary with new and updated exhibitions.
• Beloved venue 3rd & Lindsley hits 35 and will expand its family-friendly live shows.
• In celebration of America’s 250th birthday, Nashville will host Let Freedom Sing! Music City July 4th featuring global headliners, the Nashville Symphony, and one of the nation’s largest fireworks shows.

For more information, visit visitmusiccity.com or contact Henton at [email protected] or (615) 259-4758.

Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp | visitmusiccity.com | (615) 259-4700

Photo credits: Courtesy of SongTeller Hotel; 353MEDIA GROUP; Grand Ole Opry: L. PaTKOS; Loveless Cafe.