Nashville, Tennessee, often called “Music City,” offers visitors a perfect blend of musical heritage, Southern hospitality, and unforgettable experiences. After enjoying a delicious family-style Southern feast at Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen in Nashville, you might be wondering what other attractions are worth exploring in the area. Fortunately, this iconic restaurant is strategically located near some of Nashville’s most exciting destinations, making it an ideal starting point for your Nashville adventure.  In this blog post, we examine the best attractions near Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen in Nashville.

Key Takeaways

• Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen in Nashville is conveniently located at 575 Opry Mills Drive, near several popular attractions including the Grand Ole Opry and Opry Mills Mall
• The restaurant offers a genuine Southern dining experience with family-style meals featuring classics like Southern Fried Chicken and Ooey Gooey Butter Cake
• Visitors can easily combine a meal at Paula Deen’s with trips to nearby attractions such as the Gaylord Opryland Resort, the Grand Ole Opry, and the Country Music Hall of Fame

Experience Southern Comfort at Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen

Before exploring the surrounding attractions, let’s take a moment to appreciate what makes Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen such a special dining destination. Located at 575 Opry Mills Drive in Nashville’s Music Valley area, this restaurant embodies the warmth and generosity of Southern hospitality that Paula Deen is famous for.

The restaurant offers a unique family-style dining concept where guests can enjoy unlimited portions of classic Southern dishes. From the crispy Southern Fried Chicken to the savory Beef Pot Roast and indulgent Ooey Gooey Butter Cake, every item on the menu is crafted with love and served in generous portions meant to be shared.

With three family-style dining options—The Albany ($19.99 per person for lunch/$26.99 for dinner), The Savannah ($21.99 per person for lunch/$27.99 for dinner), and The Georgia ($23.99 per person for lunch/$29.99 for dinner)—there’s something for every appetite and budget.

*Lunch served Monday thru Friday

Top Attractions Near Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen in Nashville

One of the biggest advantages of dining at Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen is its prime location near some of Nashville’s most beloved attractions. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best places to visit before or after your Southern feast:

1. Grand Ole Opry

Just a short walk from Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen, the Grand Ole Opry is perhaps Nashville’s most iconic music venue. Often referred to as “the show that made country music famous,” this historic venue has hosted legendary performances since 1925.

The Grand Ole Opry offers:

• Live performances by both established country music stars and rising talents
• Backstage tours where you can peek behind the curtain of this legendary venue
• A chance to stand in the famous wooden circle where countless country music legends have performed

Whether you’re a devoted country music fan or simply curious about Nashville’s musical heritage, the Grand Ole Opry provides an authentic Nashville experience that perfectly complements your Southern dining adventure.

2. Opry Mills Mall

Directly adjacent to Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen, Opry Mills Mall is Tennessee’s largest outlet and retail destination. With over 200 stores, restaurants, and entertainment options, it’s the perfect place to walk off your hearty Southern meal.

Highlights of Opry Mills Mall include:

• A diverse range of shops, from luxury brands to budget-friendly options
• Family entertainment venues including Dave & Buster’s and a 20-screen movie theater
• Specialty stores unique to Nashville offering local crafts and memorabilia

The mall’s convenient location makes it easy to combine shopping with your dining experience at Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen.

3. Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center

The breathtaking Gaylord Opryland Resort is just minutes from Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen and offers visitors a chance to explore its stunning indoor gardens and waterways. This massive resort features:

• Nine acres of indoor gardens with cascading waterfalls and winding rivers
• A glass atrium that houses a tropical paradise regardless of the weather outside
• Seasonal decorations that transform the resort into a magical wonderland, especially during the holidays

Even if you’re not staying at the resort, visitors are welcome to stroll through the gardens and enjoy the serene atmosphere—a perfect digestif after a satisfying Southern meal.

4. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

A short drive from Music Valley, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum offers an immersive journey through the history of country music. This world-renowned cultural institution features:

• Extensive exhibits showcasing instruments, costumes, and memorabilia from country music’s biggest stars
• Interactive displays that bring the evolution of country music to life
• The actual Hall of Fame Rotunda, where country music’s greatest contributors are immortalized

For music enthusiasts, combining a visit to this museum with a meal at Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen creates a perfect Nashville day that celebrates both the city’s musical heritage and its culinary traditions.

5. Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

If you’re looking for family-friendly entertainment, the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is approximately a 20-minute drive from Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen. This expansive zoo features:

• Over 2,700 animals representing more than 365 species
• Interactive exhibits and a Jungle Gym playground for children
• Beautiful historic grounds including the Grassmere Historic Home

The zoo provides a wonderful opportunity for families to enjoy some outdoor time and animal encounters after indulging in Paula Deen’s famous Southern comfort food.

6. The Parthenon at Centennial Park

For a touch of unexpected culture, visit The Parthenon—a full-scale replica of the ancient Greek temple—located in Centennial Park. About a 15-minute drive from Paula Deen’s, this architectural marvel features:

• A 42-foot statue of Athena, just as in the original Parthenon
• An art museum with a permanent collection and rotating exhibits
• Beautiful surroundings in Centennial Park with walking paths and open green spaces

This unique attraction offers a surprising contrast to Nashville’s country music scene and provides visitors with stunning photo opportunities.

7. Edwin Warner Park

Nature lovers will appreciate Edwin Warner Park, located about 25 minutes from Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen. This natural oasis offers:

• Miles of hiking and biking trails through serene wooded areas
• Picnic facilities for those who want to enjoy the outdoors
• Bird-watching opportunities with over 200 species identified in the park

It’s a perfect way to get some exercise and fresh air after enjoying Paula Deen’s hearty Southern cuisine.

Where is Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen in Nashville Located?

Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen is conveniently situated at 575 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville, TN 37214, in the heart of Music Valley. This strategic location places it:

• Adjacent to Opry Mills Mall
• Within walking distance of the Grand Ole Opry
• A short drive from the Gaylord Opryland Resort
• Approximately 15-20 minutes from downtown Nashville

The restaurant is open Daily: 11am - 9pm, serving both lunch and dinner, making it a convenient dining option regardless of your sightseeing schedule. *Lunch served Monday thru Friday

Tips for Planning Your Visit to Paula Deen’s and Nearby Attractions

To make the most of your visit to Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen and the surrounding attractions, consider these helpful tips:

Best Times to Visit

• Weekday lunches typically have shorter wait times at Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen
• Plan to visit the Grand Ole Opry and book show tickets well in advance, especially for weekend performances
• The Opryland Resort gardens are less crowded on weekday mornings
• Consider visiting during Nashville’s shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) to avoid the heaviest tourist crowds

Transportation and Parking

• Free parking is available at Opry Mills Mall, which serves Paula Deen’s and many nearby attractions
• Consider using rideshare services if you plan to include downtown Nashville attractions in your itinerary
• The Music City Circuit, a free bus service, connects various Nashville attractions, though you may need to drive or take alternate transportation to reach the Music Valley area

Dining Recommendations

• Come hungry to Paula Deen’s as the family-style portions are generous
• Consider a late lunch or early dinner at Paula Deen’s (around 2-4pm) to avoid peak times (Lunch served Monday thru Friday)
• Remember that the family-style dining is designed for sharing, so it’s ideal to visit with family or friends
• No reservations are required at Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen, but be prepared for possible wait times during peak hours

Ready to Experience Nashville’s Best Attractions Near Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen?

A visit to Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen in Nashville offers more than just a memorable meal—it’s the perfect starting point for exploring some of Nashville’s most beloved attractions. From the musical heritage of the Grand Ole Opry to the natural beauty of Edwin Warner Park, there’s something for everyone within easy reach of this Southern dining destination.

Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a shopping aficionado, or a nature lover, pairing a feast at Paula Deen’s with visits to nearby attractions creates an unforgettable Nashville experience that showcases the best of Southern hospitality and entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions