Long weekend? Head south for a grand ole time in Music City

Though I wouldn't quite call myself a country music fan, I do occasionally enjoy the melancholy twangs and poetic proclamations of a classic country ballad (Randy Travis, I'm looking at you). So when I found myself headed to Nashville, Tennessee -- the country music capital of the world-- for a friend's birthday, I expected a weekend full of honky tonks and the Grand Ole Opry.

What I got was so much more. From dining that would make die-hard foodies swoon to jaw-dropping historical sites, here are my five most memorable experiences from our long weekend in "Music City."

L.A. Jackson Rooftop Bar at the Thompson Nashville Hotel

For a hip, laid-back atmosphere and terrific skyline views, look no further than L.A. Jackson Rooftop Bar at the Thompson Nashville Hotel. Located in the trendy 'Gulch' neighborhood, the bar offers small plates, local beers, and a solid selection of cocktails that are especially enjoyable on a balmy summer evening. For those sweet-toothers, try the dark chocolate bread pudding... #yum

Chauhan Ale & Masala House

Word of advice -- make reservations! Free tables were scarce, even on a Tuesday night, and as soon as our first plates arrived, I knew why. We enjoyed dish after scrumptious dish from Chauhan's mouthwatering menu, inspired by cuisine from India and all over the world (the chili paneer bhurjee relleno and gol guppa shots are delicious). Adding to the experience are the lively surroundings -- exposed brick walls, colorful lighting, classic Bollywood jams, and even tables inlaid with exotic spices. You can safely expect to enjoy a delicious, fun and memorable meal at Chauhan Ale & Masala House. 

The Parthenon 

I believe this building might have something to do with Nashville's other nickname: "Athens of the South." You can find this full-scale replica of the ancient Greek Parthenon at Centennial Park in Nashville's West End -- what a sight to behold. 

Johnny Cash Museum

One could argue that a trip to Nashville wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Johnny Cash Museum. The country music legend is part of the very fabric of Music City, so much so that it's sometimes called "Cashville." The museum is small, but exhibits are engaging; my favorite part was getting our group photo taken with guitar props and a shockingly-realistic, superimposed Johnny Cash. General admission is $20. 

Opryland 

Stepping into Opryland feels a bit like following Alice down the rabbit hole... literally. The hotel and entertainment center features an incredible atrium throughout which the Wonderland theme is unmistakable (inescapable?). It makes for an amusing, albeit slightly bizarre, experience that's fun and certainly memorable. The Opry complex is also home to Opry Mills Mall and its namesake, the world-famous Grand Ole Opry House. I would love to return and catch a classic country music concert at this historic theater. 

Whether you want to explore the city's burgeoning foodie scene, indulge your inner country music star, or simply get a taste of some good ole southern charm, Nashville (only a 2 1/2 hour flight from New York City) is the perfect escape for a long weekend.