After brunch today we said our goodbyes to everyone and dropped Gene at the airport on the way back into the city.   We ended up staying an extra day, so we’ve decided to spend some of it getting more acquainted with Nashville.

We stopped by the original home of the Grand Ole’ Opry, the Ryman Auditorium.

The 5th Avenue side of the Ryman Auditorium.

We took the tour and got to see the stage up close:

And a view from backstage:

It’s a beautiful venue.  Amazing to think about all the stars that spent so much time here…

One more shot from the balcony:

Then we wandered off to the nearby bars on Broadway.   We ended up at Jack’s BBQ for some brisket and pork shoulder – and it was delicious.

Nashville is the “Athens of the South,” and in 1897 they built an exact replica of the Parthenon for the Tennessee Centennial Exposition.  So, of course, we had to see it.  Unfortunately, by the time we made it to Centennial Park, the landmark was closed for tours, so we did not get a chance to see the statue of Athena.  But we did get a great view of all 4 sides.

We made it to the Bluebird Cafe, but didn’t get a photo (!)

We ended up a great day at the Pla Mor Lanes.  Monte kicked my butt 2-1 … even with the badminton injury   🙂

Looking forward to a leisurely morning tomorrow and (especially) spending the weekend on the boat.   More exploring tomorrow, before heading to the airport for our flight home.

Good ‘night!