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Nashville offers plenty of beautiful scenery to enjoy. When you're ready to get some fresh air and sunshine, spend the afternoon checking out all the activities available at these top Nashville Parks. more Centennial Park Centennial Park is one of the top parks in Nashville. The most iconic feature of this 132-acre park is its replica of the Parthenon. They also have the Centennial Art Center, a one-mile walking trail, an exercise trail, historical monuments, Lake Watauga, a sunken garden, a band shell, sand volleyball courts, and an events shelter. Even your four-legged family members can come along: enjoy the fenced-in dog park that offers separate areas for large and small dogs, shady trees, and water fountains for both humans and pets. Cumberland Park If you have children, Cumberland Park, one of the newest parks in Nashville, is an exciting spot to check out on the riverfront. Here you'll find several innovative play spaces for children of all ages like the large splash pad, the perfect place to cool down on a hot summer day. You can also check out The Scoops, a stepping stone path with cooling misters, or head to The Hollow, which offers an activity area, sand play area, maze, and bouncing pad. Radnor Lake State Park Radnor Lake State Park is a peaceful nature preserve located just 10 miles south of downtown Nashville. This 1,332-acre park is the ideal place for nature lovers to explore, and you'll see a variety of birds, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals as well as hundreds of species of trees, bushes, and wildflowers. You can journey out on some of the several miles of hiking trails, join the ranger staff for interpretive canoe floats during the summer, or check out the programs at the Barbara J. Mapp Aviary Education Center. Two Rivers Park The 374-acre Two Rivers Park has more recreational activities than any other park in Nashville. Here you can go for a swim in Wave Country, which is one of the only wave-action swimming pools in the area. You can also test your skills at the Two Rivers Golf Course. Make sure you take in the stunning views of the Nashville skyline on the eighth hole. A few of the other activities available at the park include a disc golf course, skate park, picnic shelters, and walking paths. Warner Parks Percy Warner Park and Edwin Warner Park, together known as Warner Parks, are two major public parks in Nashville that cover more than 3,100 acres of land. These parks offer an excellent variety of trails that range from the 150-yard Little Acorn Trail in Edwin Warner Park to the 4.5-mile Mossy Ridge Trail in Percy Warner Park. The parks also offer a nature center, dog park, picnic shelters, equestrian center, golf courses, and athletic fields. Whether you're looking for a dog park or a swimming pool, these top parks in Nashville offer the best activities for enjoying the afternoon outside. Plan your outdoor getaway today! This photo, " Centennial Park & The Parthenon – 100_0495” by Stephen Yeargin used under CC BY 2.o. " Centennial Park & The Parthenon – 100_0495 " is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Wyatt Johnson Ford.

When you're looking for a vehicle that offers plenty of power for a spirited drive, Ford has six performance vehicles ready to give you the ride of a lifetime. From a powerful truck to a streamlined sports car, Ford has something for everyone to enjoy. more Ford GT The Ford GT is a sleek and modern sports car designed to offer a thrilling ride. It comes with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine that offers an impressive 647 horsepower. You can lower the vehicle's ride height by around 50 millimeters to improve its aerodynamics and drop its center of gravity for better performance on the track. Plus, everything from its teardrop-shaped body to its rear wing was built to provide an extra boost in handling and capabilities. Ford Focus RS The enthusiast community helped design some of the modifications on the exciting Ford Focus RS. The 2018 model has exclusive features that include carbon fiber accents on the inside, black mirror caps, a black spoiler, and special wheel center caps. The hatchback comes with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine that provides 350 horsepower. The vehicle also comes with four different driving modes, including Drift and Track, which can give you even better performance on the course. Ford Focus ST Another performance vehicle in the Focus lineup is the Ford Focus ST. Not only does this hatchback offer eye-catching design, it also comes with plenty of exciting power. You'll enjoy a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine that generates 252 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. Climb inside and you'll also find everything you need for a comfortable drive. The smart SYNC technology helps you stay connected on the road, and the available heated leather seats and steering wheel give you the ultimate comfort on those cold days. Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 The Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 is a classic performance vehicle with heart-pounding power. The 5.2-liter V-8 engine gives you 526 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque. When you're ready to hit the track, the flat-bottom steering wheel offers comfortable grip for better handling and control, and the Track Apps gives you instant information on your performance metrics in the 4.2-inch message center. Ford F-150 Raptor Sometimes performance isn't how well you handle the track; it's about how well you can take on the back roads. With the Ford F-150 Raptor, those off-road adventures are just waiting for you to explore. You'll enjoy a 3.5-liter V-6 EcoBoost engine and 10-speed transmission that provides an incredible 450 horsepower. Plus, if you ever find yourself needing more traction, you can deflate the available beadlock-capable wheels for even more control. Ford Fiesta ST Climb inside the Ford Fiesta ST and you'll discover a hatchback that offers a 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine that delivers 197 horsepower and 202 pound-feet of torque. The Fiesta ST also comes standard with AdvanceTrac, which automatically modulates torque and applies the brakes if it detects slipping wheels for better control. When you're interested in a thrilling ride, take one of these Ford performance vehicles for a spin and discover what makes them so exciting. This photo, " 2017 Ford GT,” by Dave Doe used under CC BY 2.o. " 2017 Ford GT " is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Wyatt Johnson Ford.

With freezing temperatures and snowy roads, winter brings conditions that can challenge and frustrate even the most seasoned driver. However, if you approach this winter season in one of these Ford vehicles, you'll find interior comforts and impressive performance that can help you handle whatever nature brings. more Ford Explorer The Ford Explorer is a stylish SUV that's ready to handle whatever type of road condition you face this winter. The available intelligent four-wheel drive with Terrain Management System lets you quickly and easily shift into one of four settings to match the terrain. In the winter, the Snow and Mud setting will let you take on these conditions with confidence. Plus, when summer rolls back around, you'll appreciate the convenience of the Normal and Sand setting. Ford F-150 When you're ready to get out and have some fun this winter, the Ford F-150 has the power and performance you need. A properly equipped F-150 has a maximum towing capacity up to 13,200 pounds and a maximum payload capacity up to 3,270 pounds. Therefore, whether you want to bring along the snowmobiles or the ATVs for a weekend of fun, this truck can handle it. Plus, the F-150 offers plenty of smart towing features, including a smart trailer connecter that lets you know about connectivity issues and a blind spot monitoring system that covers a trailer. Ford Edge Not only does the Ford Edge look sharp, it also comes with plenty conveniences and comforts to make your winter drive easier. The Edge comes standard with a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine that produces 245 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. You'll also enjoy standard features that include hill start assist, four-wheel anti-lock brakes, and traction control, as well as an available intelligent all-wheel drive system. Inside, the available heated front seats and heated steering wheel give you luxurious comfort on those cold winter mornings. Ford Fusion The Ford Fusion proves you don't need a truck or SUV to handle winter roads. This sleek sedan comes available with an intelligent all-wheel drive system that uses sensors to balance torque between the front and rear wheels. This enhances handling to give you better traction, often before the wheels even begin to slip. Plus, the Fusion also comes available with a remote start system, which lets you start the vehicle from the warmth of your house so it's the perfect temperature when you venture outside. Ford Escape The Ford Escape comes available with an intelligent four-wheel drive system that monitors the road conditions and vehicle traction every 16 milliseconds, guaranteeing a smooth drive. If the system detects slipping, it can transfer torque from front wheels to the rear wheels as needed to make sure you have the right combination of traction and handling. Not only is the Escape capable, but it's also smart. The available SYNC 3 system can let you check the weather, get directions, and connect to your smartphone. This winter, you can take on any type of conditions when you head out in one of these Ford vehicles. This photo, " Black Explorer,” by Truck Hardware used under CC BY 2.o. " Black Explorer " is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Wyatt Johnson Ford.

Shopping for a new vehicle can feel like a daunting task. After all, you have to find a certain brand you like and a model that fits well within your budget. Fortunately, Ford has a lineup of impressive and amenity-packed SUVs on the market to pique your interest. Here's a look at four that top our list. more 2018 Ford EcoSport With a starting price tag of $19,995, the Ford EcoSport is an affordable pick for most buyers. This SUV is offered in the S, SE, Titanium, and SES trims, and includes exterior sports elements like a black grille, a rear hatch swing door, and an acoustic laminated windshield. Inside you'll find an adjustable cargo shelf, smart-charging USB ports, and steering-wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls. We round out the list with safety features, which include emergency brake assist, three-point safety belts, and side-curtain airbags. 2018 Ford Escape This five-seater starts at $23,850 and comes in S, SE, SEL, and Titanium trims. The exterior looks stylish thanks to a black grille, LED taillamps, and Sterling Gray lower front and rear fascia. If you want a spacious vehicle, the Escape's 60/40-split rear seat backs fold flat for up to 68 cubic feet of cargo space. Plus, the interior boasts convenience features like a hands-free, foot-activated liftgate and center console media bin. In terms of safety, this SUV keeps you protected with features like adaptive cruise control with forward collision warning, dual-stage front passenger airbags, and an SOS Post-Crash Alert System. Security is also enhanced with remote keyless entry and a SecuriLock Passive Anti-Theft System. 2018 Ford Edge Next on the list is an SUV that's as stylish as it is practical. The Ford Edge starts at $29,220 and comes in four trims: the SE, SEL, Titanium, and Sport. They're all available with an Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system and traction control for taking on tough terrain. They each feature an EcoBoost engine too, while the interior is adorned with amenities like reclining front bucket seats, eight cup holders, and an optional dual-headrest DVD entertainment system. The exterior is eye-catching as well. It's styled with halogen projector headlamps, a stainless steel exhaust tip, and rear privacy glass. Finally, keeping all passengers safe is possible in the Ford Edge thanks to front- and second-row side-curtain airbags, LATCH child safety seat anchors, and individual tire pressure monitoring. 2018 Ford Explorer If you're in need of an SUV with ample passenger and storage space, the Ford Explorer might be what you're looking for, as it offers seating for up to seven. It also starts at a reasonable $31,990 and can be ordered in one of five distinct trims. When you glance at the exterior, you'll notice a sleek finish thanks to the dual chrome exhaust tips, dark gray grille, and front and rear black lower bumpers. The interior is just as impressive with its cloth or leather seating surfaces, media cluster with smart-charging USB port, and optional all-weather floor mats. When it comes to performance, the Explorer excels in this category too. It offers electronic power assist steering, inflatable rear outboard safety belts, and a front passenger knee airbag. Deciding on a vehicle can be tough. Make the process easier by test driving one of these four Ford SUVs. This photo, “ Ford,” by Mike Mozart used under CC BY 2.o. “ Ford” is licensed under CC BY 2.o by Wyatt Johnson Ford.

Investing in a new vehicle is a big commitment, and it's important to choose one that's going to suit your lifestyle preferences the best. If preserving fuel is a big concern for you, a hybrid or electric vehicle is a more effective and fuel-efficient way to extend your driving range. If you're in the market for a new car, here are just a few energy-saving Fords we recommend. more 2018 Ford C-MAX Hybrid This five-seater is available in Hybrid SE and Hybrid Titanium trims, both of which deliver ample passenger volume to accommodate all your guests. It also comes in at a starting MSRP of $24,120, making it an affordable option for most budget-conscious buyers. In terms of fuel economy, this vehicle wows with its impressive range of 42 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. Plus, the SmartGuide with EcoGuide system lets you access energy history reports and seek out tips from your Energy Coach to boost your vehicle's overall performance. We round out the amenities with regenerative braking, a convenient feature that restores lost energy to the battery caused by braking or slowing down. 2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid SE This sedan costs just a bit more than the C-MAX Hybrid with its starting $26,245 price tag. However, it does offer a higher EPA estimate for fuel economy. Along with its siblings — the Fusion Hybrid S, Hybrid Titanium, and Hybrid Platinum — the Hybrid SE can reach up to 43 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway, thanks to a 2.0-liter Atkinson Cycle I-4 Hybrid engine. It also offers seating for five and reaches up to 102.8 cubic feet of passenger volume. Finally, it comes with handy features like Engage and Empower to monitor things like your engine, battery power, and acceleration for convenient performance tracking. 2018 Ford Focus Electric This hatchback starts at $29,120, and it actually gets the highest EPA-estimated driving range on this list. It's capable of reaching 118 mpg in the city and 96 mpg on the highway, courtesy of a permanent magnet electric traction motor and 33.5 kWh lithium-ion liquid battery with cooling/heating properties. However, it also shines thanks to a charging port and LED indicator to let you know when your hatch is all juiced up. Plus, you'll get a 120-volt convenience cord for easy charging! 2018 Ford Fusion Energi SE We put the final spotlight on the Ford Fusion Energi SE. This model comes in at $31,305, and you'll find it to be quite roomy with up to 44.3 inches of front leg room and 102.8 cubic feet of passenger volume. Under the hood of the Energi SE (as well as the Energi Titanium and Energi Platinum) sits a 2.0-liter Atkinson-Cycle I-4 Energi Plug-In Hybrid engine capable of reaching an incredible 104 mpg in the city and 91 mpg on the highway. This engine, combined with the 7.6 kWh lithium-ion battery, offers a seamless driving experience with plenty of power to get you where you need to go with ease. Now that you've read more about Ford's impressive lineup of hybrid and electric vehicles, we hope you're convinced to test drive one for yourself. You'll save energy and fuel, and you'll look good in one too! This photo, “ 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid gas gauge,” by Beth used under CC BY 2.o. “ 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid gas gauge” is licensed under CC BY 2.o by Wyatt Johnson Ford.

Nashville is one of the best places in the country for live music. No matter what night of the week you go out, there is always a live show going on somewhere. One of the best things about the city is also the variety of music you can hear. While many know Nashville for its country music scene, you can listen to live music from every genre. Here are some of the best places to see and hear live music in Nashville. more Ryman Auditorium In downtown Nashville, many know the Ryman Auditorium as the "The Mother Church of Country Music." This venue is something special and considered hallowed ground by both the artists and the audience. Johnny Cash met June Carter on the Ryman stage, and it is the birthplace of Bluegrass. These days you can see some of country music's established artists and some emerging ones as well. Some upcoming shows include Dwight Yoakam, The Isaacs, Dick Hardwick, and Lindsay Ell. You can also see Little Big Town on this stage along with Amy Grant and Vince Gill. Mercy Lounge You can see some of the top musical acts perform on the stage at Mercy Lounge and be one of the first to hear new artists as they get their start. The building houses not only the main lounge, but also the Cannery Ballroom which will fit 1,000 people, and The High Watt, a smaller room where you can often catch new and local bands. Some of the upcoming acts heading to The Mercy include Blizzard of Ozzy, an Ozzy Ozbourne and Black Sabbath tribute band, Blue Water Highway, and True Widow. The Station Inn If you like Bluegrass, then The Station Inn is where you need to go to listen to live music. This historic venue has seen Dolly Parton perform along with Reba McEntire, and Alison Krauss. There is live music every night with a focus on Bluegrass, but you'll also get to hear other kinds of music like rock and folk. Tickets for shows at The Station Inn are on a first come, first served basis, so make sure to get there early if there is a performance you want to see. The Bluebird Cafe A trip to Nashville is not complete without a stop at the Bluebird Cafe. This is the place to go if you want to hear the some of the best singer-songwriters in the business perform in an intimate setting. If you haven't been to the Bluebird before, make sure you listen quietly. This place has a "Shhh policy" and asks that their audience keep their conversations to a minimum while the performers are on stage. Some of country music's most famous performers got their start on this stage, including Garth Brooks and Kathy Mattea. You also never know who you might bump into on any given night at the Bluebird. Artists such as LeAnn Rimes and Jojo Hermann regularly stop in to listen. These are some of the best places to listen to live music in Nashville, although there are many more. This photo, “ Paul, Lisa at Bluebird Cafe,” by dvs used under CC BY 2.o. “ Paul, Lisa at Bluebird Cafe” is licensed under CC BY 2.o by Wyatt Johnson Ford.

There is nothing like a good breakfast whether you prefer eggs, pancakes, or a combination of both. In Nashville, there are many places where you can get breakfast almost any time of day. Here are some of the best. more Biscuit Love Biscuit Love was a popular food truck that started in 2012. Because owners Karl and Sarah Worley has such a strong following, they decided to open a brick-and-mortar location in the Gulch neighborhood of Nashville. The menu features 100% homemade biscuits combined with classic Southern comfort food. Make sure to try the Princess, a hot chicken sandwich made with a delicious biscuit and topped with a drizzle of honey. You should also make sure to try the Bonuts, a cross between a donut and a biscuit. These are incredible and something you just can't get anywhere else. Sun Diner Head to the SoBro area of Nashville and Sun Diner for everything from your favorite breakfast classics to burgers and more. This 24-hour diner is always hopping, and you can satisfy your craving for pancakes or eggs no matter what time of day or night. Make sure to try the Banana's Foster's pancakes or the breakfast tacos if you want something different. This place also has a fantastic Feelin Good breakfast burger, complete with an Angus beef steak burger topped with an egg, and then topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion and a pickle. The Red Bicycle Head to the Red Bicycle in Germantown for coffee and crepes for breakfast. Try the sunrise crepe which comes with eggs, cheese, and your choice of meat, or the Florentine which comes with egg, cheese, mushrooms, and spinach. You can also get the mexi, featuring manchego cheese along with the eggs, and it also comes with chorizo, salsa, and sour cream. If you want something on the sweet side, this place also has a wonderful cinnamon roll crepe, a Nutella crepe, and the funky monkey which comes with peanut butter, banana, Nutella, and walnuts. The Red Bicycle also serves delicious coffee to go with their crepes whether you have a sweet or savory concoction. Pinewood Social Pinewood Social is a great place to get breakfast during the week. This restaurant serves some menu items you can't really get anywhere else such as the eggs in a jar, breakfast tacos, or braised short rib. You can also enjoy The Graceland waffles with peanut butter, mousse, banana and bacon, or the chicken and biscuits which comes with fried chicken, sausage gravy, and hash browns. Pinewood Social is much more than just breakfast. It has six reclaimed-wood bowling lanes, and an outdoor patio space with pools to cool off in, along with a 30-foot Airstream camper. The pool and patio area has its own menu with some different items than what the chef serves inside. The next time you crave a big, delicious breakfast or even something light to start your day, try one of these Nashville area restaurants. This photo, “ Breakfast,” by katiebordner used under CC BY 2.o. “ Breakfast” is licensed under CC BY 2.o by Wyatt Johnson Ford.

A sports sedan, family-hauler, and entry-level luxury vehicle wrapped in one package, the 2017 Fusion is a car unlike any other. Few other options can boast such a breadth of offerings, while also sporting great styling, power, and top-notch amenities. When you’re in the market for a new vehicle with all the extras, you won’t find anything like the 2017 Ford Fusion. Here are just a few of its coolest features that make it stand out from the pack. more Twin-Turbo Power If you have an insatiable lust for speed, the 2017 Ford Fusion delivers with the Sport trim. On this model, Ford places a brawny, 2.7-liter twin-turbo V-6 under the hood that’s good for 325 horsepower and a whopping 350 pound-feet of torque. This pairs with a swift-shifting six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode and all-wheel drive. When you add it all up, this version of the Fusion blazes down the road, going from zero to 60 in just 5.3 seconds while topping out at 125 mph. SYNC 3 Although the first generation of Ford’s SYNC infotainment system comes on each trim of the Fusion, an upgrade to the SYNC 3 is a must for tech enthusiasts. This system keeps you connected and on the go throughout the day by connecting with your smartphone and allowing you to access your favorite music, emails, navigation, and more. Exploring all this system has to offer is even easier than ever before thanks to a massive 8-inch LCD touch-screen display. Driver Assist Safety Features When you think of cool cars, your mind probably doesn’t wander off to safety features. However, the enhanced technology behind the Fusion’s driver-assist features is something to get you excited. Upper trims come with extensive safety specs designed to keep you safe and prevent accidents before they happen. Highlights include adaptive cruise control, a lane-keeping system, pedestrian detection, cross-traffic alert, and more. Another awesome feature is enhanced park assist. Using sensors, the Fusion guides itself into tight parallel or perpendicular parking situations, alleviating the stress of the amateur parker. Exterior Styling Even with awesome safety specs, power, and tech, a car just isn’t the same without the looks to back it up. Fortunately, the Fusion does just that behind some terrific standard features, as well as add-on packages. When you’re designing your Fusion, choose between seven wheel choices that range from 17 inches to 19 inches. You can also pick from seven color choices to make the vehicle your own including White Gold, Lightning Blue, Ruby Red, and more. To take your Fusion’s appearance to the next level, you can also add the Platinum package. This includes a premium sport grille with silver paint, 19-inch wheels, and an appearance that screams luxury and sportiness. With all these features, you’re sure to love just about anything the 2017 Fusion has to throw your way. Stylish, refined, and more, it’s the car you’ve always dreamed of driving. Make sure to schedule a test drive with us today to see what the 2017 Ford Fusion is all about. This photo, “ fusion-2295,” by Scott Ritchie used under CC BY 2.o. “ fusion-2295” is licensed under CC BY 2.o by Wyatt Johnson Ford.

Traffic jams are the worst. You have to deal with other drivers merging, driving erratically, or throwing anger and shade your way for 30 minutes to several hours a day. That’s why it’s no surprise that the traffic is a main source of anger, stress, and anxiety. If you suffer from a bit of road rage every now and again that’s exacerbated by traffic jams, check out a few of these strategies to keep you calm behind the wheel. more Turn Off the Road Rage Music Studies have yet to show the soothing qualities of Metallica, hardcore hip hop, or punk rock, and that’s why you should avoid them behind the wheel. Fast, aggressive music with violent lyrics can often get your blood boiling, and that’s even before someone cuts you off or changes lanes without using a blinker. If possible, try some jazz, classical, or talk radio that keeps your eyes on the road and your rage at a far from palpable level. Grab a Snack Although you should avoid eating and driving, grabbing a snack during a traffic jam is an ideal way to curb your anger and stress. You have more than a few options when it comes to the snack, as this can range from indulgences such as candy to something healthier or protein-packed such as fruit or jerky. The idea here isn’t so much what you eat, but the fact you’re eating something can direct your rage away from other motorists and chill you out, even if only for a few minutes. Listen to a Book on Tape If you’ve ever watched golf on television or Bob Ross paint a lovely picture, you know all about the soothing qualities of a quiet, calm voice. At home, these things may put you to sleep, but behind the wheel, they can offer a refuge from a traffic jam. You can find these voices on talk radio shows every so often, but a book on tape may just deliver it even better. Not only do you get a soft voice to listen to, but you also get an enthralling story that distracts you from the person who’s putting on makeup, eating a cheeseburger, and inching into your lane. Try Something New You have your favorite musical artists for a reason, whether it’s because of the insightful lyrics, screeching guitar solos, or danceable beats. However, you might find yourself in a rut of listening to the same songs on your iPod or the radio. This can cause you to tune them out, and you may actually find listening to the same things as an annoyance. Fortunately, you have alternatives to this revolving cycle. With SiriusXM satellite radio, Pandora, or HD radio, you can listen to artists you may never have heard before based on your tastes and other artists you enjoy. This new music keeps you attentive, while also calming you during the drive. Unless you’re a bit of a masochist, you probably don’t love the prospect of sitting in traffic. However, you can curb your fears and make the best of a bad situation, keeping you calm, collected, and under control for the duration of your ride. This photo, “ Bay Bridge traffic jam DSCN0362,” by Gohsuke Takama used under CC BY 2.o. “ Bay Bridge traffic jam DSCN0362” is licensed under CC BY 2.o by Wyatt Johnson Ford.

Carsickness is an ailment that results when the brain gets mixed signals from the eyes and ears. The inner ear can detect that the car is in motion while the eyes fixate on the immediate objects around. While people of all ages can suffer from carsickness, it’s particularly bad among small children. It’s difficult to offer ideas on how to curb the sickness, especially when you’re focused on driving. Instead, you have a screaming child that’s just minutes or seconds away from vomiting. If this ever happens to you, follow these tips to help alleviate some of the side effects. more Watch for the Signs One of the best things you can do to get rid of carsickness is to watch out for the warning signs. This is particularly true of children that haven’t yet developed their speech. When they look sweaty, pale, or start to cry, it could mean that they’re starting to get carsick. If that’s the case, the best plan is often to pull over and get your kid out of the vehicle. If possible, lay them down and put a cold, wet rag in their forehead. If that’s not an option, roll down the window and let in some fresh air. Look at a Single Spot If your child has developed the ability to understand language, you can often alleviate their sickness by having them look at a single spot on the horizon. When your child focuses on just one spot, it gets rid of the disruption between the inner ear and the eyes, often getting rid of the ailment. Choose the Middle Seat Due to limited visibility and feeling extra movement, most people and babies get carsickness with more frequency in the backseat than anywhere else. Obviously, you can’t move them into the front seat, but if you have second and third-row seating, always put your child in the second-row. This makes for a smoother ride than in the rear, and often can make a huge difference in whether or not carsickness strikes. Distractions Children that have suffered from carsickness in the past are much more likely to feel the effects each time they get in the car. While this could be physical in nature, many times this is entirely mental. Just one bad bout of carsickness can leave a lasting impression, and rarely can you convince your child otherwise. That’s when distractions come into play. Certain toys may allow them to concentrate on something other than nausea, but be careful not to give toys or books that require a ton of focus. Instead, opt for a sing-along, a little conversation, or some snacks to keep your child distracted and entertained. Naptime Schedule There’s no better substitute to get your child to sleep than a car ride. However, planning your trip during scheduled naptimes makes all the difference. Whether it’s a short trip or a sizeable one, the longer your child is asleep, the more you can minimize carsickness. Carsickness is almost guaranteed to happen from time to time, especially on long trips, but by using these tips, you can avoid any potentially nasty situations. This photo, “ Car seats are functional but not actually fun,” by Mark Skipper used under CC BY 2.o. “ Car seats are functional but not actually fun” is licensed under CC BY 2.o by Wyatt Johnson Ford.

With the advent of Airbnb, vacation rentals, and other accommodation, the hospitality industry has undergone somewhat of a renaissance, offering top-notch lodging to travelers for both leisure and business. Nashville is no exception to this trend, yet it takes it in a completely new direction. Over the past decade or so, several boutique hotels have started to pop up, giving guests five-star amenities and a vacation experience unlike any other. The next time you’re in the Music City for a stay, make sure to check out a few of these boutique hotels that are perfect for relaxation and exploration. more SoBro Guest House Located just three blocks off tourist-favored Broadway in downtown Nashville, the SoBro Guest House offers luxurious, apartment-style living in the heart of the city. When you check in, you’ll notice that the process is entirely automated, so you won’t have to call ahead if you’re early or late. Each room also has some nice appointments including a king bed, full kitchen, designer toiletries, complimentary grocery delivery, plush bathrobes, and two 48-inch LED televisions. A nice touch is the in-room record player and records, adding to the Music City vibe. The Germantown Inn Nestled in the center of Nashville’s Germantown neighborhood, the Germantown Inn is the ideal spot to stay to get a bit of local flair. Despite the amount of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venue in this area, few tourists choose to explore here, giving you the chance to live like a true Nashville resident. The inn has only six rooms, each named for a U.S. President, but the funky decor seamlessly blends old with contemporary, creating a warm, inviting vibe. All six suites also have plenty of modern accessories such as a robe, private bath, a king bed, sitting area, and flat-screen television. 21c Museum Hotel Opened in May 2017, the 21c Museum Hotel is the city’s newest boutique hotel. Situated above the 21c Museum, which features 10,500 square feet of contemporary artworks, the hotel is one of the larger boutique options in the city, boasting 124 guest rooms and 14 suites. Both the guest rooms and the suites have beautiful modern artwork on the walls and fresh decor, while the amenities are sure to please. Each room comes with your choice of either a king bed or two double beds, luxurious bedding for a comfortable night’s sleep, a Nespresso coffee machine, free Wi-Fi, a 43-inch HDTV, designer toiletries, and access to both a 24-hour fitness center and 24-hour business center. Urban Cowboy B&B Nestled in the cultural center of East Nashville, the Urban Cowboy B&B is the ultimate blend of old and new Nashville. It features eight guest rooms in an old Queen Anne Victorian mansion, and each room has plush bedding, a television, and specially designed decor. A delicious Southern-style breakfast comes free each morning, and if you want to explore the city, the hotel is near many music venues, dive bars, and farm-to-table restaurants. With so many amazing boutique hotels, you have plenty of options for your next visit to Nashville. By finding the one with the ideal amenities, location, and price, you’ll have a trip you won’t soon forget. This photo, “ You’re So Much Better Than You Know,” by Thomas Hawk used under CC BY-NC 2.o. “ You’re So Much Better Than You Know” is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.o by Wyatt Johnson Ford.