It’s graduation season, and we’ve got the rundown on things to do with out-of-town guests, with a dose of nostalgia for students and alumni alike. Make the most of commencement weekend with good food, activities for everyone, and picture-perfect photo ops around Music City.

Memorable experiences

Calling all art and theater majors. Stay busy during downtime by exploring the Frist Art Museum or watching productions of “Mary Poppins” and “Oklahoma” at TPAC (through May 8).

For the sports fans out there, make sure to take in a Nashville Sounds game or show off Nashville SC's new stadium. Trade your cap and gown for a jersey at Preds Party in the Park (Sat., May 7).
If the weather is right, venture outdoors to see wildlife up close at Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary or Radnor Lake (watch for bald eagles nesting on the lakefront).

Pro tip: Share our May Plan Ahead calendar with guests ahead of time and have them pick out an activity.

Brunch and lunch options

Reservations fill up quickly, but there’s still brunch availability at Liberty Common, Chauhan Ale and Masala House, and Earnest Bar & Hideaway. Looking for a quick bite closer to campus? Enjoy a steam table lunch from International Market and Restaurant, personal pizzas from Slim & Husky's, or tacos and queso from SATCO.

Cap and gown photo ops

On-campus photos, check. Now travel off campus for posing at Centennial Park (permits required for professional photographers), under the string lights in Printers Alley, or at one of the many colorful murals around town. Pro tip: Save time by finding your favorites on this mural list or hiring a service like Photowalk Nashville.

Psst — Don’t forget to bring the perfect grad gift to brunch. Check out Judith Bright's graduation collection, a customized cookie tin from Christie Cookie Co., and cards from Katy’s Hallmark.