As an outdoor industry professional who’s spent the last decade exploring and writing about the best of American adventure, I know how important it is to combine work with play. If you’re heading to Nashville for the Nashville Turkey Convention 2023, you’re in for a treat – not just in terms of industry networking, but also in terms of the incredible outdoor opportunities Tennessee has to offer. This guide will cover everything you need to know about the turkey convention Nashville 2023, plus how to make the most of your time exploring the surrounding natural beauty. I’ll share insights on lodging, event details, and nearby adventures, ensuring a productive and enjoyable trip.

What is the Nashville Turkey Convention 2023?

The National Turkey Federation (NTF) hosts the annual Turkey Convention, a major event for the turkey industry. It brings together producers, processors, suppliers, and retailers from across the United States and beyond. The Nashville Turkey Convention 2023, held from January 25-27, 2023, at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, focuses on industry trends, networking, and business development. Expect a packed schedule of educational sessions, a large trade show, and plenty of opportunities to connect with colleagues. You can find official details on the NTF Convention website.

Key Events at the Turkey Convention Nashville 2023

• Trade Show: The heart of the convention, showcasing the latest products and services for the turkey industry.
• Educational Sessions: Covering topics like animal health, food safety, marketing, and industry regulations.
• Networking Events: Opportunities to connect with peers and build relationships.
• Committee Meetings: For those involved in NTF committees.
• Awards & Recognition: Celebrating achievements within the turkey industry.

Finding Lodging for the Nashville Turkey Convention

The Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center is the primary venue and offers extensive lodging options. However, it’s a large resort, and rooms fill up quickly, especially during peak convention times. Booking well in advance is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of lodging options:

• Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center: Convenient, but often the most expensive option.
• Hotels near Opryland: Numerous hotels within a short drive or shuttle ride of the convention center. Consider options on Briley Parkway.
• Downtown Nashville Hotels: A bit further away (approximately 15-20 minutes drive), but offers access to Nashville’s vibrant nightlife and dining scene.
• Airbnb & VRBO: Can be a cost-effective option, especially for groups.

I recommend checking sites like Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Airbnb to compare prices and availability.

Beyond the Convention: Outdoor Adventures Near Nashville

Don’t let the Nashville Turkey Convention 2023 keep you confined indoors! Tennessee is an outdoor paradise. Here are some adventures within a reasonable driving distance of Nashville:

Hiking & Trail Running

• Radnor Lake State Park (Nashville): Just a short drive from the city, Radnor Lake offers beautiful hiking trails around a serene lake. (TN State Parks)
• Percy Priest Lake (Nashville): Offers trails around the lake, plus opportunities for water activities.
• Cummins Falls State Park (Cookeville, ~1.5 hours): Home to a stunning 75-foot waterfall and challenging hiking trails. Important: Permits are often required for access to the gorge. (TN State Parks)
• Fall Creek Falls State Park (Spencer, ~2 hours): One of the largest and most visited state parks in Tennessee, featuring breathtaking waterfalls, hiking trails, and camping. (TN State Parks)

Water Activities

• Percy Priest Lake: Boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• Cumberland River: Kayaking and canoeing opportunities.
• Duck River: Known for its excellent kayaking and canoeing, with several outfitters offering rentals and guided trips.

Rock Climbing & Bouldering

• Obed Wild & Scenic River (Crossville, ~2 hours): Offers excellent rock climbing and bouldering opportunities. Experienced climbers only! (National Park Service)

Camping Options

If you’re looking to extend your stay and immerse yourself in nature, Tennessee has numerous camping options. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles (Leave No Trace) to minimize your impact on the environment.

Campground	Distance from Nashville	Amenities
Percy Priest Lake Campground	~30 minutes	Electric hookups, restrooms, showers, boat ramp
Montgomery Bell State Park Campground	~45 minutes	Electric & water hookups, restrooms, showers, hiking trails
Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground	~2 hours	Full hookups, restrooms, showers, hiking trails, waterfalls

Essential Packing for Nashville & Outdoor Adventures

Beyond your convention attire, be prepared for Tennessee’s variable weather. Even in January, temperatures can fluctuate. Here’s a packing checklist:

• Business Attire: For the convention sessions and networking events.
• Layers: A waterproof jacket, fleece or sweater, and comfortable base layers.
• Hiking Boots: If you plan on hitting the trails.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes: For exploring Nashville.
• Rain Gear: Tennessee can be rainy.
• Sunscreen & Hat: Even on cloudy days.
• Insect Repellent: Especially if you’re near water.
• Water Bottle or Hydration Pack: Stay hydrated on the trails.
• Headlamp or Flashlight: Essential for hiking and camping.
• First-Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor injuries. (REI Expert Advice has excellent guides: REI First Aid)

Navigating Nashville: Transportation & Local Tips

Nashville offers various transportation options:

• Rental Car: The most convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas.
• Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft): Readily available in Nashville.
• Public Transportation: The WeGo Public Transit system offers bus service throughout the city.

Local Tips:

• Music City: Nashville is known as “Music City” for a reason. Check out live music venues on Broadway.
• Hot Chicken: A Nashville specialty – be prepared for some heat!
• The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: A must-visit for country music fans.
• The Parthenon: A full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, Greece.

Resources for Planning Your Trip

• National Turkey Federation: https://www.turkeyfed.org/
• Tennessee Department of Tourist Development: https://www.tnvacation.com/
• Tennessee State Parks: https://www.tn.gov/environment/parks.html
• USDA Forest Service (for Obed Wild & Scenic River): https://www.fs.usda.gov/
• Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics: https://lnt.org/

I hope this guide helps you make the most of your trip to Nashville for the Nashville Turkey Convention 2023. By combining industry networking with the incredible outdoor opportunities Tennessee offers, you can create a truly memorable and productive experience. Safe travels, and enjoy the adventure!