You might be planning a visit to Nashville, TN, soon. It’s a popular tourist destination and a city known for its fun nightlife. However, if you’re looking to stay away from the traffic and crowds, you should check out Antioch, TN. It will put you close to the big city and provide additional fun activities for your family during your stay.
Let’s look at why this suburb of Nashville is a great place to visit.
Where Is Antioch, TN?
Antioch, TN, is about 12 miles southeast of downtown Nashville. It’s an area of high growth due to its proximity to the city. Almost 100,000 people call Antioch, TN, home. Top employers include Community Health Systems, and the retail venue, the Commons at the Crossings.
Olympian Scott Hamilton opened his Ice Skating Academy at the Ford Ice Center, where locals also have a youth hockey league. Antioch, TN, is ideally situated near Nashville while also creating its own identity.
Traveler’s Tip: If you’re interested in venturing further out of the Nashville area, we have 7 great reasons to explore the town of Ashland City, TN.
What Kind of Neighborhood is Antioch, TN?
If you’re looking to experience the city life of Nashville but don’t want to pay the price of staying in Nashville or paying the cost of living there, Antioch is a great alternative. The rental fees and housing prices are much cheaper than in the city. This makes Antioch, TN, a popular destination for commuting to Nashville for work.
Since it’s less hectic than Nashville, it’s also a great place to raise a family while still being close to family fun and educational experiences. Museums and farmer’s markets are easily accessible. But you can retreat to your home outside the crowds and traffic.
4 Ways to Do Antioch, TN, Like a Local
When visiting a suburb of a large city, you’ll want to know what the locals do. Here are four ways to do Antioch, TN, like the residents there. Although the touristy attractions of Nashville are only a short drive away, here are a few other ideas to explore the area.
1. Visit Antioch Park
Pack up a picnic lunch and take the kids to Antioch Park for the afternoon. This location has a community center, playground, and picnic shelter. You can also access the Mill Creek Greenway for a great walking or biking trail. Located right off I-24 on Blue Hole Road, you can easily get to this park and then hop back on I-24 for more exploring later in the day.
2. Participate in a League Game at the International Indoor Soccer Complex
Another way to do Antioch, TN, like a local, is to join a league. The indoor soccer complex is just minutes from downtown Nashville. There are three indoor fields, five outdoor fields, and even a Mexican restaurant inside the complex. On Saturdays, the youth league is in action. During the week, there are men’s and women’s games. It’s a great way to connect with locals!
3. Eat Mexican Seafood Cuisine
You can’t go to Antioch, TN, without eating at El Rey Tiburon Seafood restaurant. The menu consists of Tex-Mex seafood such as a seafood quesadilla and taco pacifico, and includes chicken and steak options. You have to try their homemade guacamole. Guests rave about the quality service, delicious food, and cleanliness. It’s also less than half a mile from the Indoor Soccer Complex, so you can easily drive over for a meal after your soccer game.
4. Spend an Evening in Downtown Nashville
When visiting Antioch, TN, you can’t miss out on an evening in downtown Nashville. There are so many live music venues and restaurants, novelty stores, and attractions. Honky Tonk Highway is the famous strip in Nashville where the party lasts all day and through the night. Guitars and banjos will serenade you, playing the latest hits and old-time favorites at any time of the year.
Besides the music scene, you can also enjoy shopping and dining downtown. You’ll find souvenir gift shops, boot barns, candy stores, and more. There’s a shop for everyone. The same is true for the restaurants. If you want an incredible experience, try out one of the many roof-top dining options for a bird’s eye view of downtown Nashville.
Image courtesy of Travel South USA
What Are the Best Hotels in Antioch, TN?
The Best Western Plus located off Collins Park Drive offers WiFi, complimentary breakfast, a swimming pool, and a fitness center. It’s one of the newest hotel options built in March 2021. The Hampton Inn located off Crossings Place is also a great hotel. It’s right off I-24, so it’s conveniently located near all of the things you want to do. This location also offers WiFi, complimentary breakfast, a swimming pool, and a fitness center.
Finally, a third good option is the Holiday Inn Express & Suites, also located off Crossings Place near I-24. It offers the same amenities as the Best Western Plus and Hampton Inn hotels.
Is It Worth Staying in Antioch, TN?
Antioch, TN, is a great location to visit near Nashville. When you don’t want to deal with the traffic or crowds of the city, you can stay close by and still have easy access. There are other things to do besides visit downtown Nashville. That’s definitely one drive you’ll want to make at least once during your stay. You’re only 15 minutes from the Country Music Hall of Fame, 20 minutes from the famous Opryland Resort, and 15 minutes from Music Row.
You’ll enjoy this suburb in central Tennessee! When will you visit?
