Best Things to Do in Nashville in January (Updated for 2026)
January in Nashville is significantly less cheery than December with the exception of a few special days like New Years. The upside is that January is also significantly less crowded, and hotels tend to be less expensive as well.
In my opinion, January is still a great time to explore Nashville. Since I don’t love crowds, I try to check out as many spots as possible during this month. January isn’t exactly the off season because people are always visiting, but without the huge crowds it’s easier to get into places than normal.
You’ll need to take the weather into account. January tends to be cold (with possibly a handful of snowy days), and although we do sometimes get a few unusually warm days, planning for indoor activities is your best bet.
If you’re looking for things to do in January in Nashville, check out these options. I’ve started with special events first, followed by indoor activities. Make sure to read my full guide to Nashville as well!
Events in Nashville in January
Zoolumination
2026 Event Dates: Runs every night Nov. 13 – Jan. 4, runs Thur – Sun night Jan. 8 – Feb. 8
The Christmas season may be over, but the lights at the zoo continue all the way through February. Visitors can enjoy the colorful and bright designs.
The lights are the main attraction at this afterhours event. However, a few animals are still up until 8:30 pm.
Admission is $25 for adults and teens, $21 for kids ages 2-12, and free for kids under 2. Buying tickets in advance is recommended. Ice skating tickets are an add-on for $12 per person. Parking costs $10. Discounts are available for zoo members.
Antiques and Garden Show
2026 Event Dates: January 9 – 11
Those who love antiques, art, and gardens will be interested in the Antiques and Garden Show At Music City Center. More than 150 vendors will attend, and there are garden showcases, live music, and special events on the schedule. Guest speakers include David Lauren, Lauren Bush Lauren, and Alfredo Paredes,
Standard general admission tickets are $35. Tickets to lectures are an additional fee. The show raises funds for Cheekwood and ECON Charities.
The Antiques and Garden Show Website
Monster Jam
2026 Event Dates: Jan. 17 – 18
Watch world-class drivers show off their skills and stunts at this motorsport event. Monster Jam takes place at Bridgestone Arena.
There are three different events taking place over the weekend. Tickets start at $30.
Nashville Predators
January 2026 Dates: Jan. 8, 10, 11, 13, 20, 22, 24
The NHL season continues throughout January making it a perfect time to watch the Nashville Predators play. The Predators play at Bridgestone Arena in Downtown Nashville.
Ticket prices vary. Weekday games are cheaper than weekend games.
Shows & Live Music
The music doesn’t stop in Nashville just because there are fewer visitors. You can listen to live music at most of the bars in Downtown and other parts of Nashville.
I also recommend checking at the lineup at different indoor music venues around town including 5 Spot, Basement East, the Ryman, the Grand Ole Opry, and Bridgestone Arena.
A few bigger names that might be of interest (I’m very uncool and am just picking some artists I’ve heard of) are For King & Country January 16 and January 17 at the Grand Ole Opry and Ruston Kelly January 17 at the Ryman Auditorium.
Indoor Activities in Nashville for January
Pins Mechanical
Enjoy an afternoon or evening of nostalgic fun with the pinball machines and other classic games at Pins Mechanical. I particularly enjoy the duckpin bowling because it’s not as difficult as regular bowling.
The venue has a wide selection of cocktails, beer, wine, and other drinks that you can order while there. It’s a family-friendly space, but after 9 pm, it’s 21 and older only.
Game Terminal
Game Terminal is another spot to play old school games. You can play over 130 arcade games for free with a small fee for pinball machines. The collection of vintage games here is especially impressive.
Entrance is free for 21 and up, but there is a $10 fee for kids. The space is adults-only after 8 pm.
There’s a food menu as well as a drink menu, so it’s easy to spend a while here!
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
You can’t spend time in Music City without learning at least a little bit about its music heritage, so the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a must-visit.
There’s so much to see at this museum in Downtiown. I recommend it even if you aren’t a huge fan of country music!
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Website
Nashville Public Library
The Main Library in Downtown is another spot that I recommend for everyone. The interior is beautiful, and there are special exhibits you can look at including the Civil Rights Room and the Votes for Women Room.
The kids’ area is giant with plenty of indoor activities perfect for when it’s not nice outside.
As of December 2025, the Nashville Public Library is closed following a fire in the parking garage. I am really hoping it is open by January though!
See my full list of reasons to visit the Nashville Public Library here.
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Thanks for reading my suggestions for things to do in Nashville in January! Hopefully, you found something to enjoy in Music City!
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