When summer arrives in Nashville, so do outdoor concerts, drinks on the rooftop, and tons of summer events. But let’s be honest, Middle Tennessee summers can get HOT! Fortunately, one of the best things about visiting Nashville is that you’re never far from a refreshing escape.

From cruising across Percy Priest Lake and paddle boarding scenic waterways, to sipping frozen cocktails high above the skyline, here’s your guide to staying cool while experiencing the very best of Music City.

Escape the City and Head to the Water

Many first-time visitors are surprised to discover that some of the best summer activities near Nashville involve getting out on the water. Within 20 to 30 minutes of downtown, you’ll find beautiful lakes perfect for boating, swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, and relaxing in the Tennessee sunshine.

Spend the Day at Percy Priest Lake

Just east of downtown, Percy Priest Lake is one of Nashville’s favorite summer destinations. With more than 14,000 acres of water and over 200 miles of shoreline, it’s the perfect place to trade busy city streets for a relaxing day on the lake.

Renting a pontoon is one of the most popular ways to experience Percy Priest. Spend the afternoon cruising through peaceful coves, dropping anchor for a swim, or simply soaking up the sunshine with family and friends.

Several local businesses make planning a lake day easy:

• Sun Life’s Elm Hill Marina offers luxury pontoon rentals, double-decker party boats, and convenient lake access just minutes from downtown Nashville.
• Four Corners Resort & Marina is another excellent option for pontoon rentals and leisurely afternoons exploring Percy Priest Lake.
• Nashville Shores Marina combines boat rentals with one of the area’s most popular waterparks, making it an ideal choice for families looking to enjoy multiple activities in one day.

Let Someone Else Do the Driving

Want all the fun without worrying about navigating the boat?

Book a captained cruise with Nashville Toons, one of the city’s most popular boat experiences. Their luxury pontoons come complete with a licensed captain, floating mats, premium sound systems, and even waterslides on select boats. It’s an especially popular choice for bachelorette parties, birthdays, family reunions, and summer celebrations.

For visitors wanting a laid-back afternoon on the water, it’s one of the easiest, and most memorable ways to experience Nashville from a completely different perspective.

Paddle Board Through Middle Tennessee

If you’re looking for a fun way to stay active, paddle boarding has quickly become one of the most popular outdoor activities in Nashville.

Stand-up paddle boarding offers a peaceful way to explore Middle Tennessee’s lakes while enjoying beautiful scenery and wildlife. It’s beginner-friendly, surprisingly relaxing, and a great workout without feeling like one.

Some of the best places to paddle include:

• Percy Priest Lake
• Old Hickory Lake
• Long Hunter State Park
• The Cumberland River

Local outfitters make getting started simple.

Nashville Paddle Company offers stand-up paddle board rentals and lessons on Percy Priest Lake, while Paddle Up Nashville provides guided paddle board experiences that are perfect for first-timers.

Whether you’re chasing sunrise on calm waters or spending an afternoon with friends, paddle boarding is one of the most memorable ways to cool off during a Nashville vacation.

Explore Nashville by Kayak

Looking for a different perspective of Music City?

Kayaking gives visitors the chance to experience Nashville from the water while escaping the afternoon heat. Paddle quiet sections of Percy Priest Lake or enjoy a guided trip along portions of the Cumberland River for unique views of the city.

Several local outfitters, including Cumberland Kayak & Adventure Company and Cap’n Dave’s Water Sports, offer kayak rentals, equipment, and beginner-friendly instruction.

It’s the perfect activity for couples, families, or anyone wanting to enjoy Nashville at a slower pace.

Make a Splash at Nashville Shores

Traveling with kids? Or maybe you’re just a kid at heart.

Located on the shores of Percy Priest Lake, Nashville Shores Waterpark is one of the top family attractions during the summer months. Spend the day floating the lazy river, racing down waterslides, relaxing in the wave pool, or cooling off in interactive splash areas.

The fun doesn’t stop inside the waterpark. Right next door, visitors can rent pontoons, paddle boards, kayaks, and jet skis, making it easy to combine a thrilling waterpark visit with a relaxing afternoon on the lake.

Discover Old Hickory Lake

While Percy Priest gets much of the attention, Old Hickory Lake is another incredible destination for boating, fishing, paddle boarding, and waterfront dining.

Located just northeast of downtown Nashville, the lake offers a quieter atmosphere with beautiful scenery and plenty of room to spread out.

Several marinas around Old Hickory Lake offer boat rentals, making it another fantastic option if you’re looking for a relaxing day away from the crowds.

Cool Off with Frozen Cocktails and Rooftop Views

Nothing says summer in Nashville quite like watching the sun set over the skyline with a frozen cocktail in hand.

Fortunately, Music City has no shortage of incredible rooftop bars where you can cool down while enjoying spectacular views.

lou/na

Located atop the Grand Hyatt Nashville, lou/na is known for panoramic skyline views, creative seasonal cocktails, and refreshing frozen drinks that pair perfectly with warm summer evenings.

L.A. Jackson

Situated in The Gulch, L.A. Jackson remains one of Nashville’s most iconic rooftops. Its relaxed atmosphere, handcrafted cocktails, and incredible downtown views make it a must-visit after a day exploring the city.

L27 Rooftop Lounge

One of Nashville’s highest rooftop bars, L27 combines sophisticated cocktails with sweeping skyline views and an upscale atmosphere that’s especially beautiful at sunset.

Fins Bar

If you’re craving tropical vacation vibes, Fins Bar delivers. Located atop Margaritaville Hotel Nashville, it’s famous for frozen margaritas, colorful cocktails, and a laid-back beach atmosphere right in the heart of downtown.

Harriet’s Rooftop

Perched atop 1 Hotel Nashville, Harriet’s Rooftop offers stylish surroundings, handcrafted cocktails, and one of the most picturesque rooftop experiences in the city.

More Ways to Beat the Heat Like a Local

Looking for even more ways to stay cool during your Nashville getaway?

• Enjoy homemade ice cream from neighborhood favorites like Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, Bobbie’s Dairy Dip, or Mike’s Ice Cream.
• Visit one of Nashville’s world-class museums during the hottest part of the afternoon.
• Take a shaded stroll through Centennial Park or Cheekwood Estate & Gardens.
• Book an evening cruise along the Cumberland River.
• Catch a Nashville Sounds baseball game after the sun begins to set.
• Explore one of Nashville’s many breweries with indoor taprooms before heading back out for an evening of live music.

Your Perfect Summer Home Base

After a full day on the lake, paddle boarding through Middle Tennessee, or enjoying rooftop cocktails downtown, having a comfortable place to unwind makes all the difference.

At Stay Local Nashville, our vacation rentals place you close to Nashville’s most popular attractions while giving you space to relax like a local. Whether you’re traveling with family, celebrating a bachelorette weekend, or gathering with friends, our homes offer amenities that hotels simply can’t match, including full kitchens, spacious living areas, private patios, rooftop decks, and plenty of room to reconnect after a day of adventure.

Summer is one of Nashville’s busiest travel seasons, so if you’re planning a getaway, now is the perfect time to reserve your stay and experience everything Music City has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions