nashville trip guide

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Nashville International Airport Guide

Neighborhoods to Know

Public Transportation Guide

Driving in Nashville

Day Trips From Nashville

Jack Daniel's Distillery Tour

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Best Museums in Nashville

Top Country Music Attractions

Nashville's Best Parks

Outdoor Escapes Near Nashville

Live Music Venues

Guide to the Grand Ole Opry

Nashville's Top Annual Events

Food to Try in Nashville

Nashville's Best Restaurants

Best Bars in Nashville

Top Nashville Breweries

Your Trip to Nashville: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Ivey Redding

There once was a time when travelers planned a visit to Nashville simply to attend a music festival or spend hours in the city's legendary honky tonks listening to the latest up and coming country band. While those activities remain deeply rooted in the local culture, Nashville now has much more to offer travelers as well.

Over the past decade or so, it has become a culinary hub , offering some of the best food found anywhere in the southern U.S. The city also features an array of outdoor green spaces to explore, a thriving art scene, and some of the best local breweries to sample too. Oh yeah, and the music still remains pretty great, offering a mix of genres and big name stars, along with the hottest new talent looking to make it big.

This guide will give you a good overview of what to expect when visiting the Music City, providing you with valuable information that will help you make the most of your stay.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit : The good news is that the honky tonks are open all year round and live music can be found pretty much every day of the week in Nashville. That said, the city is well known for its hot and humid summers, which can be challenging for visitors to endure. That also happens to be the busiest tourist season too, with larger crowds filling up hotel rooms, restaurants, bars, and other attractions. The shoulder seasons of mid-March through May and late-September through November provide better temperatures and fewer people to contend with. Winters are relatively free of snow and ice, although it can still get quite cold. Just pack a warm jacket and you'll be fine.

Getting Around: Nashville's public transportation system mainly consists of semi-reliable bus service. The purple WeGo buses can be found throughout the city and can get you to where you want to go provided you're not in a hurry. The Music City Transit Tracker app can help make it easier to catch the bus, but honestly using the transit directions option in your favorite maps app (Apple Maps or Google Maps) is just as good, if not better. Nashville is a driving city however, so most visitors bring a vehicle, rent a car, or use ride sharing apps. Electric scooters are common throughout the busier parts of the city as well and are a popular option for getting around.

Check out our guide to Nashville's public transportation for more info on the MTA bus system.

Travel Tip: Nashville welcomes around 16 million visitors annually   and a lot of them are long-weekend visitors, meaning travelers tend to show up on Thursday and head home on Sunday. That means the city can be surprisingly quiet from Sunday evening through Wednesday. If you can plan a visit at that time of the week, you'll find crowds are less of a hassle. Or, if you can extend your stay to incorporate one or two of those days, you'll have an easier time booking a reservation at that hot restaurant or getting into a music show.

Things to Do

For many visitors to Nashville it is all about live music. If that's your goal, chances are you won't be disappointed as there are always bands playing somewhere. But the city also has plenty of great food to sample as well and a number of top-notch breweries too. You'll also find historical places to explore, unique shopping, surprisingly great parks, and an array of professional sports teams as well. Whether you're coming for just a day or two, or have an extended stay planned, chances are you'll find plenty of things to keep you busy in the Music City.

Music: If you have trouble finding live music in Nashville, you're simply not looking all that hard. You're likely to find artists and bands playing at the airport upon your arrival, but for a more suitable venue head down to Lower Broadway to check out the honky-tonk scene. Many of the bars in Nashville have bands playing every night, but for a real treat check the schedule at the Ryman , which just might be one of the best live music venues on the planet.

Museums: Nashville has a wide variety of museums to explore, which are great on a hot, muggy day. The Country Music Hall of Fame is a must-see for fans of the genre and the Tennessee State Museum is a walk through the local history and it's absolutely free to visit. Kids of all ages will love the Adventure Science Center , where you can actually have fun and learn something new at the same time.

History: For a slice of Civil War history, head over to Fort Negley to learn about the largest fortification built for Union troops after the city fell in 1862.   Nashville's Hermitage allows people to learn about the life of President Andrew Jackson and of the people enslaved there through tours of the estate. Nashville's Hermitage was For a different kind of history, head over to Music Row to see the iconic Nashville recording studios, some of which have been named to the National Register of Historic Places .

Parks: The Nashville greenway crisscrosses the city in a variety of places, offering visitors a place to take a quiet stroll and just stretch their legs a bit. But several other parks have a lot to offer as well, including Centennial — which has a full-size replica of the Greek Parthenon – and Radnor Lake , which features six miles of walking trail and the chance to spot an array of wildlife.

Sports: The Music City is home to both the Tennessee Titans of the NFL and the Nashville Predators of the NHL. It also has a AAA baseball team called the Nashville Sounds and a pro soccer team called the Nashville SC (soccer club). In short, that means sports fans will find a lot to love no matter what time of year they visit.

What to Eat and Drink

Nashville is one of those great destinations where the food can range from simple, down-home fare up to gourmet options that are so good you'll think you've died and gone to heaven. The city's signature dish is without a doubt Nashville Hot Chicken, which brings enough spice to test the taste buds of the most adventurous eaters. Give it a try at Hattie B's or Princes Hot Chicken to see what the fuss is all about. For something a bit more elevated and upscale, try the homemade pastas at Rolf & Daughters or sample just about anything on the menu at City House and Adele's .

As with most cities across the U.S., Nashville is home to some outstanding breweries as well. Yazoo is probably the most well known of the local brands, but places like Jackalope and Black Abbey make many fine options as well. If bourbon is more your style, head over to the Oak Bar to sample their stock. The famous and historical bar has been open for more than a century and has 130 bourbons to choose from. For great wine and great atmosphere, pack a picnic lunch and head out to Arrington Vineyards , where the setting is just as enchanting as what's in the bottle.

Where to Stay

There are a number of great hotels to choose from in Nashville, with many of them being centrally located in the downtown area. This makes them a convenient option for those visiting Lower Broadway, or partaking in the city's vibrant nightlife. You'll find some well-known chain hotels located on the periphery of the region, but places like the Hermitage Hotel and Noelle are found right in the middle of the action. If you want to stay a bit further out, the Opryland Hotel is a popular choice, with restaurants, shops, lush gardens, and even a waterpark found on premises.

Getting There

The best way to get to the Music City is by flying directly into the Nashville International Airport . The airport services around 18 million passengers annually.   Centrally located in town, travelers can rent a car, catch a bus, take a taxi, or use a ride-sharing service. It is roughly a 20-minute drive to downtown in a car. Alternatively, many people drive into Nashville too, with interstates 24, 40, and 65 providing good access from several directions.

Culture and Customs

In case you haven't figured it out just yet, music is the soul of Nashville. But don't be fooled, this isn't just a place for country fans. On any given night, visitors can find blues, jazz, rock, bluegrass, and a number of other genres being played too. Don't expect to find any locals wearing cowboy hats or boots, this is a rapidly growing, forward-thinking, and enlightened city where diversity, culture, and creativity are embraced.

That said, the city is still Southern to the core, which means the local hospitality is warm and welcoming. While Nashville has grown dramatically in recent years, it has also stayed in touch with its roots. Technology has become just as pervasive as barbecue and fried chicken, making this large city feel like a small hometown at the same time.

Money-Saving Tips

• Most live music is free. Sure, some bars will charge a cover, but it is easy to find places that to don't charge an admission fee to listen to the band.
• The area parks are free to use as well and often host events like farmer's markets, art festivals, sports activities, and even live music.
• Several of the city's museums, including the Tennessee State Museum and the Tennessee Agricultural Museum have no entry fees.
• Take a self-guided walking tour of downtown. There is a lot to see and do in the downtown area of Nashville and it is easily accessible on foot. You'll find shops, restaurants, parks, and other attractions that you can explore completely on your own.
• Discover more free things to do here .

Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp. "Statistics & Facts."

Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, Tennessee. "Fort Negley's History."

The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority. "BNA to Close One Runway for Full Reconstruction." April 3, 2020.

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The Everything Guide to Nashville

By Chris Chamberlain

Best Season to Go Hard to beat Nashville in autumn, when temperatures are still in the 80s and the city's big sports franchises—Predators hockey, the Tennessee Titans, and Vanderbilt college football—are all competing. Bonus: Nashvillians are very friendly to visiting fans, even if they are whupping our local teams. Music lovers also turn out for events like the annual Country Music Association Awards (CMAs, on Nov. 2 this year) and induction ceremonies to the Musicians Hall of Fame and Country Music Hall of Fame.

How to Use Public Transportation Like a Local Thing is, locals don't necessarily use public transit—they prefer to drive, and rush hour can get nutty. Avoid the chaos by renting a bike through Nashville’s B-Cycle program. Since this is a river city, many downtown streets slope toward the Cumberland, so you can coast down at affordable prices. You might want to Uber back uphill, though.

The Museum You Should Visit Now Fisk University has an arrangement with the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Arkansas to share the famous Alfred Stieglitz Collection , donated by Steiglitz's widow, the not-a-bad-artist-in-her-own-right Georgia O'Keeffe, after his passing in 1949. Each museum displays the roughly 100-piece collection—sculptures, Modernist paintings, lithographs by everyone from Renoir to Toulouse-Lautrec—for two years before swapping. Fisk has dibs until 2018, so go see it in their Carl Van Vechten Gallery.

The Museum You Should Always Revisit Frist Art Museum has no permanent collection, so its galleries are always changing to show off exhibits from around the world. Shows range from paintings by Impressionist masters to a celebration of the souped-up automobile designs of 20th-century Italian car makers. Even if you're not sure what to expect inside, the exterior of this building is a beauty: Originally built in the Deco-mad '30s, it once served as Nashville's central post office.

The Restaurant to Go for a Special Occasion In the buzzy Gulch neighborhood, just across the street from the Thompson Hotel, Prima is as much a restaurant as it is a showpiece for a huge fiberoptic light sculpture by British artist Bruce Munro. But the art doesn't distract from the food so much as complement it. Chef Salvador Avila's Tennessee upbringing and Mexican roots combine in dishes like grilled lamb "chorizo" with burnt avocado salsa and octopus a la plancha with corn and chimichurri.

Those are bonuts, folks: doughnut holes made with biscuit dough.

The Most Instagrammed Restaurant in the City Right Now After waiting in line (trust us, it's worth it) for brunch at Biscuit Love diners definitely feel the need to share their experience with their Instagram followers. Taunting your friends with a shot of the East Nasty, a fried chicken and cheese biscuit smothered in sausage gravy, is just par for the course.

Where to Get the Best Hot Chicken in Nashville Prince’s is still the revered originator of Nashville’s iconic mouth-melting chicken dish, but judging by the lines out the door, Hattie B’s wears the crown as current king. And if you're a glutton for punishment, there's a Hot Chicken Festival every Fourth of July.

The Neighborhood to Visit Now Germantown was Nashville’s first “suburb,” even though it’s only a few blocks north of downtown. Now, though, it is a hotbed of restaurant and boutique openings. Look for rows of beautiful, well-preserved 19th-century homes, streets lined with more than 100 varieties of trees, and, owing to those Teutonic roots, an annual Oktoberfest.

The Three Hotels We Love The Hermitage Hotel exudes classic luxury and Southern hospitality. The 404 Hotel is a modern five-room "invisible service" property (translation: don't expect a concierge to be there when you arrive) right in the middle of the action in Nashville’s hot Gulch neighborhood . The new Thompson Nashville is right next door to the 404, but its 12 stories of stylish accommodations offer loftier views through floor-to-ceiling windows in every guest room.

The Hermitage Hotel

The Best Place for a Cold Brew If your idea of cold brew is coffee, try Frothy Monkey for a fantastic cup of sustainably sourced beans steeped for 23 hours. But if you’re seeking a brew in a different sort of mug, Robert’s Western World will sell you a beer, a bag of chips, and a fried baloney sandwich for $5.

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

The Three Best Places for a Perfectly Poured Cocktail The Patterson House popularized the craft cocktail movement in Nashville and is still one of the best. Bastion and Old Glory are both new options that nail the high-low mix of top-shelf cocktails paired with bar snacks like nachos. If you're feeling indecisive, head to Bastion for a new-fashioned old-fashioned with the liquor of your choice; if you're feeling adventurous, Old Glory's drinks have ingredients that run the gamut from beet infusions to Greek yogurt (sometimes together).

Where to Buy Souvenirs Hatch Show Print sells letterpress printed postcards and posters that have been used as advertising materials for everything from lectures at libraries to headline shows at the Grand Ole Opry for more than a century. You can watch the printing process in real time as you shop.

Where to Buy a Little Something for Yourself White's Mercantile is a postmodern general store on the edge of 12 South neighborhood. Imagine a dry goods store where every item, no matter how basic, was made of the absolute finest materials: The deodorant has natural eucalyptus, ginger, and rosemary; the doggie beds from organic cotton. The store also holds yoga classes and the occasional jewelry-making workshop, making it as much experience as shop.

Where to Spot a Celebrity Nashvillians are noted for treating their celebrity neighbors as, well...neighbors. This lack of fawning attention and autograph hounding means you might very well spot Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman sharing a plate at the dining counter at Whole Foods or Taylor Swift taking a trail walk in Percy Warner Park.

The Sporting Event That Is So Nashville Take in a minor league baseball game at First American Park, home of the Nashville Sounds, and you can track the balls and strikes on the stadium’s iconic guitar-shaped scoreboard and enjoy a frozen whiskey drink at The Band Box in right field.

The Outfit Everyone Seems to Be Wearing (and Where to Get It) For the bachelorette party set, sundresses and cowboy boots are still de rigueur, even during the chillier months. Nashville native Reese Witherspoon's 12 South boutique, Draper James will set you up—you may even spot Witherspoon herself, who's been known to stop by occasionally to visit with her fans and customers. Lower Broad is full of discount boot stores, or you can splurge on a custom pair by Texas outfitter Lucchese, which has an outpost in the Gulch.

Two Old Hippies in the kind of Gulch store we love.

The Best Neighborhood for a Walkabout Super-hip East Nashville sometimes gets called the Brooklyn of Music City, but this neighborhood has a singular, hard-earned charm. Start in the Five Points area packed with bars and shops, then head east on Woodland or north on Gallatin to see more of what this 'hood has to offer (like a lot of good craft beer).

Where We Go to Hear Live Music Right Now The Ascend Amphitheatre is attracting new acts like Eric Church and Old Crow Medicine Show as well as nostalgic tours by Earth, Wind & Fire, Peter Frampton, and Cheap Trick. They all play big open-air shows against a beautiful backdrop of downtown Nashville.

The Local Trend Everyone Is Talking About Everyone already knows about Nashville's music and food chops—but the fashion scene is particularly hot right now, thanks to designers making an impact on runways around the world. Project Runway alum Amanda Valentine produces her own fashion line out of a studio in a converted factory, while brands like imogene + willie and Otis James are making names for themselves with custom denim and bow ties, respectively.

The Local Trend Everyone Loves to Hate While some residents might grumble about the growth of Airbnb and VRBO listings, those rentals sure have made it easier for visitors to experience other neighborhoods in Nashville that aren’t only near downtown or the airport. Don’t let the lack of hotel rooms deter you from staying in fun and funky neighborhoods like East Nashville or Germantown.

The Views of the City We Love Most Fans of the Nashville TV series think that the only reason locals meet on the Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge linking East Nashville with downtown is for conspiratorial tête-à-têtes. The truth is that the span offers dramatic views of the riverfront and the sparkling neon skyline of Lower Broad.

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The ultimate musical pilgrimage. Attracting country fans and wannabe songwriters for a century, a new wave of bars, breweries and boutique hotels has left Nashville sounding fresher than ever.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, attractions, must-see attractions.

Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum

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This monumental museum, reflecting the near-biblical importance of country music to Nashville's soul, is a must-see whether you're a country music fan or…

Historic RCA Studio B

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Cheekwood Botanical Garden & Museum of Art

Cheekwood is a botanical garden with an arty inclination, just southwest of downtown Nashville. The numerous gardens combine themes (Japanese, water,…

Natchez Trace Parkway

A beautiful day trip or extended road trip from Nashville, the Natchez Trace Parkway runs for 444 miles through three states until reaching its eponymous…

National Museum of African American Music

The National Museum of African American Music tells the story of the impact that African American culture has had on music around the world, from gospel to…

Grand Ole Opry House

This unassuming modern brick building seats 4400 for the Grand Ole Opry multiple times per week. Daytime backstage guided tours are offered every 15…

Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge

For a photogenic view of this graceful double-arch bridge, pull into the Birdsong Hollow overlook, about 4 miles south of the northern terminus of the…

Cumberland Park

This 6.5-acre park hugs the Cumberland River's eastern bank across from downtown. For kids, there's a climbing wall and an innovative washboard play area…

Top picks from our travel experts

15 essential nashville experiences.

Prince's Hot Chicken South

If you're looking for the heat that started the hot-chicken craze in Nashville, make your way to Prince's. Take your pick of heat, then sit back and let…

Radnor Lake State Park

It's hard to imagine that this beautiful lake is artificial, but so it is, built by a railway company in 1914 and handed over to public use in 1973. These…

Warner Parks

Opened in 1927 and named after two local park commissioners, Percy (the larger) and Edwin (the smaller) Warner Parks are where Nashvillians come to enjoy…

Bluebird Cafe

It's in a strip mall in suburban South Nashville, but don't let that fool you: some of the best original singer-songwriters in country music have graced…

Behind a nondescript sliding door hides this choose-your-own-adventure foodie dreamland. Chef Josh Habiger (Catbird Seat, Patterson House) has cultivated…

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Gaylord Opryland Resort

This whopping 2888-room hotel is a universe unto itself, the largest non-casino resort in the USA. Why set foot outdoors when you can ride a flatboat…

Fort Negley

In 1862 Union forces captured Nashville, an important transportation hub linking rivers, turnpikes and railroads, and built this fort using a conscripted…

Built in 1897 to celebrate the state of Tennessee's centenary, Nashville's Parthenon is a full-scale replica of the Ancient Greece original, with a jaw…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Neighborhoods

There's more to Music City than the lively bars on Broadway. Here's everything you need to know about the best neighborhoods in Nashville.

From sampling Tennessee whiskey to exploring an underground sea, these are the best day trips from Nashville.

Transportation

Car-oriented Nashville has limited public transit between neighborhoods. But the city is walkable once you arrive where you want to be.

Free Things to Do

From exploring city parks to listening to live music performances, here are the best free things to do when you're in Nashville.

In between shows in Music City, drop into these unique retailers for vintage, just the right book and more.

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28 Best Things to Do in Nashville, Tennessee

There’s more to Nashville than the live entertainment and bars on Broadway (though those are very much worth experiencing – especially on a guided tour ). In recent years, Nashville has propelled its "It City" status by becoming a beacon for

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Grand Ole Opry Grand Ole Opry

U.S. News Insider Tip: Take the “Women of Country” tour to learn about the women who shaped country music, from Dolly Parton to Carrie Underwood, complete with mimosas and petit fours. – Kellie Walton

The Grand Ole Opry began as a radio show in 1925, and it put Nashville on the map as the "Country Music Capital of the World." Throughout its history, the Grand Ole Opry has called several different places home (including the Ryman Auditorium ), but has always hosted country performers from legends like Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton to favorites like Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban.

Ryman Auditorium Ryman Auditorium

IU.S. News Insider Tip:  Take the tour to learn of this building's fascinating history, and check the calendar to see if you can experience a live performance. The intimacy of the space and amazing acoustics are one-of-a-kind. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

There's no better place to start absorbing Nashville's musical heritage than the Ryman Auditorium. It's no longer home to the Grand Ole Opry , but the venue continues to host contemporary acts like Trace Adkins, Blake Shelton and Luke Combs. The Ryman is not only for country stars however; it has hosted musicians like Paul Simon and comedians such as John Mulaney. Recent visitors suggest opting for a tour to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the legendary music venue. Sit in on the "Soul of Nashville" screening for a multidimensional experience that uses archival images and footage of performers from the Ryman's past to illustrate its role in music history. Plus, you can learn about the building's backstory with its "Workin' on a Building" exhibit, which displays artifacts from the Ryman's construction. What's more, you can test out your own pipes at the recording studio (subject to availability). The Ryman is also a featured stop on many of the city's top guided tours .

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Check the calendar for Songwriter Sessions (typically on Saturdays) in the Ford Theater, for a glimpse into the songwriting process. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Music and history lovers can mix and mingle over the exhibits found at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Peruse the plaques dedicated to country music's finest – from Patsy Cline to Reba McEntire to Alan Jackson – and walk among artifacts like Johnny Cash's guitar and Elvis Presley's "solid gold" Cadillac limo. For an interactive history lesson on the roots and evolution of country music, take a self-guided walk through the "Sing Me Back Home: A Journey Through Country Music" exhibit. In addition to its permanent exhibit, the museum hosts various revolving temporary exhibits, which often focus on particular artists. Stop to browse the two-story wall plastered gold and platinum country records, and then head to Historic RCA Studio B . One of the world's most influential recording studios and a Music Row landmark, Studio B produced more than 35,000 songs by legends like Dolly Parton, Waylon Jennings and Roy Orbison. (Note: Studio B is about 1.5 miles southwest of the museum.)

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Broadway Broadway free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Bar hop among the different Broadway bars to hear some of the most talented singers in the city. Bring some cash to tip the musicians and request your favorite country songs. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

While many people visit Nashville to soak up the history of country music at the city's museums (like the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum ), others prefer enjoying the tunes in person. The best way to do that is to visit Broadway, downtown Nashville's main thoroughfare. Lower Broadway is nicknamed the "Honky Tonk Highway" because of the numerous spots that host live acts daily. What's more, there's no cover charge to the establishments, so you can bar hop as you please.

National Museum of African American Music National Museum of African American Music

The city of Nashville embodies more than just country music, and nowhere is this more apparent than at the National Museum of African American Music. Opened in 2021, the museum aims to educate visitors on the influence of African American people on more than 50 genres of popular music, including jazz, gospel and hip-hop.

Each of the museum's galleries focuses on how African American music changed through specific time periods. The "Wade in the Water" gallery highlights the call-and-response spirituals of the 1600s, while the "Crossroads" gallery showcases the emergence of blues music. The "A Love Supreme" gallery teaches museumgoers about the musical traditions of New Orleans and the emergence of the music now known as jazz, and the "One Nation Under a Groove" gallery details the emergence of R&B starting in the 1940s and chronicles music popularized by the civil rights era. Finally, "The Message" gallery offers a detailed look into hip-hop, rap and youth culture up until the present day. Interactive elements and musical artifacts like sheet music and costumes add to the informative displays. Recent visitors came away deeply impressed with everything from the comprehensive history presented to entertaining interactive exhibits.

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge Tootsie's Orchid Lounge

After a day exploring the roots of the "Country Music Capital of the World," why not experience the sounds of Music City first-hand? If you're looking for a fun atmosphere with top-notch performances, Tootsie's "World Famous" Orchid Lounge on Broadway is the place to go. Since the days when the Grand Ole Opry  called the  Ryman Auditorium  home, this downtown bar has been featuring performances by both world-renowned and up-and-coming artists. Indeed, the place abounds in country music history: part of the Loretta Lynn biopic "A Coal Miner’s Daughter" was filmed here, and legend has it that Willie Nelson got his first songwriting job after performing at Tootsie's.

Patrons have mixed opinions about Tootsie's with some complaining about average food, expensive drinks, and musicians assertively soliciting tips, while others say the multiple floors of first-rate music make up for the woes. Though some travelers bemoan the bar's cramped atmosphere, many believe it's part of the Tootsie's experience.

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Bluebird Cafe Bluebird Cafe

U.S. News Insider Tip: This intimate venue is where stars like Garth Brooks were discovered. Check the calendar at least a month prior to your visit to get tickets in advance. There's a very limited amount of tickets that might be released the day of, but it's a must-experience spot in Music City. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

The Bluebird Cafe is an intimate, 90-seat music venue that presents two shows per night every night of the week. Despites its unimpressive appearance, location in a strip mall outside of downtown and small size, the Bluebird achieved a reputation as a songwriter's space, and many significant performers have graced its stage over the years. Garth Brooks, for instance, performed at its open mic night before hitting the big time. Be aware that the cafe has a "Shhh policy" which encourages folks to stay quiet during all performances. (As souvenir you can buy a T-shirt with "Shhhh!" printed on the back.)

Centennial Park Centennial Park free

Encompassing the site of the 1897 Tennessee Centennial Exposition, 132-acre Centennial Park boasts an art center, a lake, a walking trail, a band shell, volleyball courts, a dog park and various historical monuments. It's also home to the Parthenon as well as the Centennial Sportsplex, a facility for swimming, tennis and year-round ice skating. The park hosts numerous festivals as well as free concerts on Saturdays in spring and fall.

Reviewers frequently say that this peaceful, well-maintained greenspace is a lovely place to take a walk. Many say the Parthenon is the must-see attraction here.

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Historic RCA Studio B Historic RCA Studio B

In its heyday, this recording studio welcomed greats like Elvis Presley, Chet Atkins, and the Everly Brothers through its doors. It is now part of the nonprofit Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum , and has been restored and renovated to reflect its historic roots. Built in 1957, the studio became famous for promoting the "Nashville sound" and put the city on the map as an international recording center. Today, visitors can take a tour of the studio to see where the stars recorded their music. Visitors give high marks to informative and engaging guides, with many saying the tour was a highlight of their visit to Nashville.

The studio is about 1.5 miles away from the Country Music Hall of Fame, where the tours depart (transportation is included). One-hour tours of Studio B are offered between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Tickets for adults are $51.95 and include admission to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Youth tickets are $41.95. More information can be found on the website .

Nelson's Green Brier Distillery Nelson's Green Brier Distillery

Fans of Tennessee whiskey and bourbon should make time for a stop at Nelson's Green Brier Distillery during their visit to Nashville. The distillery's roots reach back to the late 1800s, when Charles Nelson, a German immigrant, started producing whiskey in Greenbrier, Tennessee. It became so popular he ended up selling about 2 million bottles of whiskey in 1885 alone. Nelson was one of the first distillery owners to sell whiskey in bottles rather than more cumbersome jugs or barrels, which allowed him to achieve wide-spread distribution. He died in 1891 and his wife Louisa took over, though in 1909, Tennessee’s statewide Prohibition forced her to shutter the operation. Nearly 100 years later, the couple's great-great-great-grandsons, brothers Andy and Charlie Nelson, restored the business and brought the operation to Nashville. Today, the venue features the distillery, a tasting room, an event space and a gift and bottle shop. Tours of the distillery run on weekends.

Past travelers called the tasting fun and informational. Others said to sign up for a tour. Visitors said the friendly staff members were particularly knowledgeable and all the whiskey samples were excellent.

The Hermitage The Hermitage

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're a history buff, be sure to visit this historic site for a glimpse into the life of Andrew Jackson, as well as the realities of the lives of the enslaved people of the estate. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Constructed between 1819 and 1821 for President Andrew Jackson, this Federal-style mansion stands as a National Historic Landmark and a preserved window into the home life of Jackson. Many may be familiar with Jackson from his role in the War of 1812, his stint as president and his appearance on the $20 bill, but a tour of the massive estate provides a more up-close-and-personal look. Along the guided tour you'll see the main house, plus have (unguided) access to the garden, the quarters where enslaved people lived, Jackson's tomb and the Old Hermitage Church. 

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

U.S. News Insider Tip: While the blooms may fade in colder weather, the grounds are just as stunning when covered in mums and pumpkins each fall and draped in one million dazzling lights each holiday season. – Kellie Walton

Art aficionados and nature lovers alike should plan on making a stop at the Cheekwood Estate & Gardens. With its greenhouses, sculpture trail and chromatic flower display, the 55-acre Botanical Garden offers sanctuary from downtown's bustle. In fact, the garden comprises multiple distinct gardens, including one dedicated to boxwoods, another focused on dogwoods, a rose garden, a Japanese garden, an herb garden and one intended to inspire writing that features a small amphitheater for literary events. The on-site art museum is just as striking. Housed in the original Georgian-style Cheek family mansion, the museum boasts an impressive collection of 19th- and 20th-century American paintings as well as antique furniture, photographs, prints, sculpture and artifacts from around the world.

Fifth + Broadway Fifth + Broadway free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Prolific restaurateur Sam Fox debuted a multistory restaurant concept that connects to Fifth + Broadway. Keep your eyes peeled for a hidden door on the street level that leads to an underground margarita bar, Pushing Daisies. – Kellie Walton

Broadway is one of Nashville’s top destinations, made even more desirable through the addition of the city’s largest mixed-use development, Fifth + Broadway. From retail shops to restaurants and residential space, Fifth and Broadway offers a plethora of options adjacent to Music City’s famed honky-tonk bars. Stroll the outdoor plaza to shop at retailers like Apple, Tecovas, Free People, and locally-loved boutiques like REVV and The Nash Collection, then stop for a pick-me-up at Elixr Coffee Roasters or Jeni’s for a sweet treat. 

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Radnor Lake State Park Radnor Lake State Park free

Though Nashville is a bustling metropolis, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors right on the outskirts of town. Located less than 15 miles south of downtown, Radnor Lake State Park is a calm and serene getaway for those looking to go for a walk and observe nature. The 1,368-acre park features a variety of plants and animals, including owls, waterfowl and herons. Plus, there are numerous jogging, hiking and biking trails in the park, many of which provide impressive lake views. If you're looking to learn more about local birds in the area, check out the Barbara J. Mapp Aviary Education Center for interactive displays, ranger-led programs and panoramic views of the surrounding hillside.

Parkgoers say they loved going on peaceful walks in this park and were astonished at the amount of wildlife they saw. Some people advise getting there early to get parking if you drive.

The Johnny Cash Museum The Johnny Cash Museum

Uncover the enigma behind "The Man in Black" with a visit to The Johnny Cash Museum. The museum boasts the world's largest collection of Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia, including items from the film "Walk the Line" (which is about Cash's life), handwritten notes and letters penned by Cash and costumes worn during his career. Exhibits spotlight different periods in Cash's life, including his years in the Air Force, his marriage to June Carter and his famous prison concert tour. And because the museum is officially endorsed by the Cash family, you can bet you'll stumble across other personal mementos not available to the public anywhere else, like a stone wall excavated from Johnny and June's Hendersonville house.

Fans love the wealth of information on display at this museum. Not much of a Cash devotee? Museumgoers say you should still make time to visit. Some warn, however, that it can get crowded. Others complain that admission fees were too high for the small museum.

Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery

U.S. News Insider Tip: The historic home tour is worth the trip, and be sure to allow time to visit the winery for a tasting. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Belle Meade, which sits 8 miles southwest of downtown Nashville, offers a look into the lives of Tennesseans throughout the 1800s. The Greek revival-style mansion was built in 1853 and 1854 and is centrally located on the historic site's 32 acres of manicured grounds. Guides offer tours of the mansion's interior. 

Nashville Bus Tours Nashville Bus Tours

Bus tours offer almost effortless means of taking in what Nashville has to offer, whether you simply want to see the city's top attractions or have specific interests, such as music, comedy, celebrities or a certain adult beverage. Here are some to consider:

Old Town Trolley Tours – Nashville Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour: Explore the sights and sounds of Nashville at your own pace on this hop-on hop-off excursion. Vehicles stop at 13 prime attractions, including the Country Music Hall of Fame , Ryman Auditorium , Belmont Mansion and Centennial Park . Tours feature live commentary. They occur daily between 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets cost about $55 for single-day tours. You may be able to score discounted tickets if you book online in advance. Riders say this tour offers a great way to learn about the city and praise its knowledgeable, entertaining guides.

Arrington Vineyards Arrington Vineyards

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you’re a fan of Arrington Vineyards, join Kix’s Wine Club to receive select bottles quarterly (with shipping available), and unlock discounts and special pricing for your next visit to the grounds. – Kellie Walton

Nestled in a south Nashville small town, Arrington Vineyards is a stunning winery co-owned by Kip Summers and country music star Kix Brooks (formerly of Brooks and Dunn). The rustic retreat boasts a primary farmhouse for wine tastings and multiple retail areas to grab a bottle or a flight of the brand’s signature wines, which range from red blends to white varietals and sparkling wine. Arrington Vineyards also offers a rotating seasonal frosé, which is especially refreshing during scorching Tennessee summers. 

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Belmont Mansion Belmont Mansion

If you love history or art, make time for a tour of Belmont Mansion – the largest house museum in Nashville. This Italian-style villa was constructed in the 1850s for Adelicia Acklen, one of the wealthiest women in the country at the time and, according to some, Nashville's own Scarlett O'Hara. Although it was originally built to be a summer home, the mansion was quite stately and featured an art gallery, a bowling alley, a zoo and gardens. A tour of the approximately 20,000-square-foot mansion leads visitors through rooms ornately decorated with 19th-century antiques and lavish art.

Visitors praise the nicely preserved interior and knowledgeable docents stationed throughout the mansion. However, some visitors felt their guides did not spend enough time acknowledging the backbreaking work of the property's enslaved workers, who, along with European immigrant servants, built and maintained this opulent mansion. Unfortunately, many physical remnants of the enslaved people at Belmont Mansion were destroyed over the course of history, but you can still learn some information about some of the property's enslaved families on the Belmont Mansion website .  

The Parthenon The Parthenon

Nashville is a city of many nicknames and most of them have to do with music. Still, the city is also known as the "Athens of the South" thanks to the numerous higher education institutions established there. This identity is reinforced with the Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the one found in Athens . Although Nashville's Parthenon was only meant to be temporary – it was built for the Tennessee Centennial Exposition in 1897 – it has since become a beloved attraction, housing models of the statues found in the original structure as well as an impressive art collection. Travelers praise the well-kept grounds, peaceful atmosphere and magnificent building, recommending an evening visit to see it illuminated. Others rave about the fascinating exhibits and love the giant statue of Athena.

Located in Centennial Park about 2 miles west of Music Row , the Parthenon is open every day, though hours can vary by the week and the season. Check its website before you visit for current hours. Admission costs $10 for adults and $8 for seniors (older than 62) and children ages 4 to 17. However, you can tour the exterior of the building and its grounds for free.

John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Grab your camera (or phone) and walk this picturesque bridge, stopping midway for a fantastic selfie with the Nashville skyline. If it looks familiar, it's likely because many music videos have utilized the vantage point from this spot. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Formerly called the Shelby Street Pedestrian Bridge (and before that, the Sparkman Street Bridge), the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge – which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places – was built from 1907 through 1909. It was constructed to connect downtown Nashville to the suburbs of East Nashville. Designed by Howard M. Jones, the chief office engineer of the Nashville, Chattanooga, and St. Louis Railway, the bridge contains 48 spans, including four steel trusses and two reinforced concrete trusses. They're the only concrete trusses to be known of in Tennessee. In 1998, the city stopped allowing vehicles on the bridge due to its poor condition, and in 2003 it was restored and became a pedestrian-only walkway. There is also 15-foot-wide central bike lane in the middle of the bridge. Pedestrians can stop and relax at one of four overlooks along the bridge, which offer panoramic views of Nashville to the north and south. 

Music Row Music Row free

With record companies, recording studios, music publishers and related organizations as well as the Historic RCA Studio B , Music Row stands as the center of Nashville's storied music industry. In addition to the sites where musical history was made, this area southwest of downtown also has plenty of eateries and shops.

Music Row may not be as flashy or brassy as Broadway , but the area is a must-see destination for music lovers. Because the neighborhood is comparatively nondescript, many travelers recommend taking a guided tour to learn the history of the area. Several of the best tours in Nashville visit Music Row.

Tennessee State Museum Tennessee State Museum free

Located in downtown Nashville next to the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park and the Nashville Farmers' Market, the Tennessee State Museum preserves the unique and storied history of the Volunteer State. The large museum showcases permanent exhibits that display the heritage of Tennessee's natural history; Native American history; military and sporting history; and Civil War history. Plus, there are rotating temporary cultural and art exhibits on display as well. Several attractions at this museum specifically cater to children. The museum's Children's Gallery is specifically geared toward kids aged 3 to 8. In addition, the museum hosts many events and educational programs on-site throughout the year.

Museumgoers say the exhibits are well organized and highly informative. Many also appreciate the free admission.

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Nashville Zoo at Grassmere Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

If you're an animal lover or in the mood for a family outing, then the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is an excellent spot to visit. The zoo boasts more than 325 different animal species and more than 3,000 animals, including clouded leopards, monkeys, meerkats, red pandas, white rhinoceroses, alligators and anacondas. Plus, there are fish and bird exhibits showcasing both local wildlife and exotic creatures. There are a number of hands-on exhibits that are popular among kids, including the Critter Encounters (where you can get up close with various animals), Kangaroo Kickabout (where you can pet kangaroos) and Lorikeet Landing (where you can see Australian parrots and feed them for a small fee). What's more, the zoo also features a historic home and garden, a zip line, a 4D theater, an animal-themed carousel and a Wilderness Express Train.

Recent visitors were impressed with this zoo, with many reviewers complimenting the well-designed and well-kept facilities. Several families recommend this attraction when visiting Nashville with kids because of its various on-site activities.

Adventure Science Center Adventure Science Center

Take a break from history and country music and treat your kids to some hands-on educational entertainment. Interactive displays at the Adventure Science Center allow little ones to learn about science, from how beekeepers do their jobs to what goes on thousands of light-years above our heads. Kids can learn what it takes to become an astronaut and use an augmented reality mirror to get a peek at what their muscles and bones look like. Regular demonstrations and crafts further keep children engaged and shows in the planetarium are entertaining for the whole family. The facility also features a flight simulator. Museumgoers say this is a must for kids, as the facility has plenty of activities to keep children interested. They also laud the friendly staff. However, some say the exhibits could be better maintained.

Located almost 3 miles south of downtown Nashville, the Adventure Science Center is open Monday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with extended hours to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Adults pay $22; youths ages 2 to 12 enter for $18 and children younger than 2 get in for free. Admission to the planetarium and certain simulation activities costs extra. Free parking is available. For more information about the exhibits and upcoming events, visit the Adventure Science Center website .

Frist Art Museum Frist Art Museum

Located in a gorgeous 1930s art deco building that was once the city's main post office, the Frist Art Museum offers an ever-changing set of exhibitions, covering everything from paintings to sculptures to photography. Past exhibits have featured European armor, works of Albrecht Dürer and Picasso's renderings of the human form. Artwork by local artists and students are regularly in rotation as well. The museum runs programs, talks and activities to complement the exhibits. Families will want to make sure to visit the Martin ArtQuest Gallery, which offers interactive stations and creative hands-on learning. Recent visitors say even if you are not a big art lover, seeing the building alone is worth a visit. Multiple travelers were disappointed by how small the traveling exhibitions are. Many observe that staff members are friendly and knowledgeable.

Located downtown, the museum is just a few blocks from the Country Music Hall of Fame . The museum opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 5:30 p.m. Thursday through Monday except for Sunday, when it opens at 1 p.m., and Thursday, when it closes at 8 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for seniors and college students. Those 18 and younger can enter for free. Parking in the museum's lot costs $2 per hour. For more information, visit the museum's website .

Shelby Bottoms Nature Center & Greenway Shelby Bottoms Nature Center & Greenway free

Located on an expansive stretch of the Cumberland River about 5 miles east of downtown Nashville, the Shelby Bottoms Nature Center & Greenway is a sprawling green space where visitors can learn about the local landscape and take advantage of outdoor recreation opportunities. When you visit, start at the nature center, where you can view cultural history exhibits and artwork. You can also rent a bicycle from the on-site BCycle station to explore or participate in an environmental education program and learn about things to do on the greenway. The 950-acre Shelby Bottoms Greenway has about 17 miles of unpaved and paved pathways (perfect for strolling and biking) that pass through wetlands, streams, forests and fields.

Parkgoers say the atmosphere is relaxing and quiet; the trail system is easy to follow and clean. Many say cycling is quite fun here. Indeed, Shelby forms part of the 26-mile Music City Bikeway that connects Percy Priest Dam and the Warner Parks. Visitors also report glimpsing deer and other wildlife here.

Soundwaves at Gaylord Opryland Soundwaves at Gaylord Opryland

The Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center stresses that its SoundWaves is an "upscale" water park. The indoor/outdoor facility features a variety of water rides, including a total of 11 slides, and wave pools complemented by music. It also boasts waterfalls, lazy rivers, play structures and a surfing simulator, among other heart-pumping attractions. There is also a splash pad and activity pool for small children. Adults can enjoy two pools all to themselves (one indoor and one outdoor) plus a bar. Cabanas and private party rooms are available for rental. Soundwaves at Gaylord Opryland is also featured in a list of best bachelorette party destinations .

Parkgoers deem this water park exceptionally fun with a great deal to do for people of all ages. It's frequently described as clean and well attended by lifeguards. While the park is open exclusively to those staying in the resort, some say this helps keep it from becoming overcrowded.

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This Southern U.S. City Is Known for Great Eats and Even Better Music — Here's How to Plan Your Trip

Visit Nashville for an unforgettable adventure. Discover the best hotels, restaurants and things to do with this highly curated Nashville travel guide.

Best Time to Go

Things to know, how to get around, best hotels, best restaurants, things to do, best shopping, neighborhoods to know, apps to download.

Nashville, Tennessee's capital city, is located in the north central part of the state on the Cumberland River. Founded in 1779 and named for Francis Nash, a Continental Army General during the American Revolutionary War, Nashville is the most populous city in Tennessee and one of the nation's fastest growing economies.

Called "Music City," Nashville is home to the Grand Ole Opry, known for country music performances and legends like Johnny Cash, Reba McIntire, Loretta Lynn, Minnie Pearl, Vince Gill and others who have graced the stage there. The Ryman Auditorium has also seen stars like Dolly Parton and Hank Williams, and now hosts shows of all genres. Bars, restaurants, and performance venues offer live music every day of the week, and it's not just country music. Bluegrass, rock, pop, and a wide range of styles can be heard throughout the city.

Another nickname for Nashville is "Athens of the South" for its many institutions of higher learning, including Vanderbilt University, Tennessee State University, and Belmont. The Parthenon in Centennial Park, a full-scale replica of the original in Athens, is a reminder of the city's reputation. It was built in 1897 for the state's Centennial Exposition.

Nashville is in the Central Time Zone, though the state of Tennessee is divided into Eastern Time Zone and Central Time Zone. (Daylight Savings Time is observed seasonally.)

Spring (April, May) and Autumn (September, October) are good times to visit Nashville because the weather is generally comfortable. The summer months of July and August are quite warm and humid, and winter is often cold and rainy. If weather is not an issue, it may be more economical to visit during winter months when there are fewer tourists.

Festivals like the springtime Cherry Blossom Festival , Fashion Week , CMA Fest , Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival , Pride Festival , Nashville Film Festival , or Germantown's Oktoberfest attract visitors based on their interest in the event rather than the time of year.

The elegant Schermerhorn Symphony Center , located downtown across from the Country Music Hall of Fame is the place to hear classical, jazz, world music, and Broadway.

Nashville is the home of Hot Chicken, and Prince's Hot Chicken is considered the original. Choose your heat level from Plain to XXX Hot, but be aware that they really mean XXX HOT!

The AT&T Building is nicknamed the Batman Building because its two towers make it resemble Batman's pointed ears.

Nashville was the first Southern city to desegregate public establishments after a series of downtown sit-ins by African-American college students in 1960.

Elvis Presley recorded more than 200 of his songs on Music Row at RCA's Studio B . (The year-round Christmas lights there commemorate his recording of his Christmas album when they were put up in July, along with a Christmas tree, to inspire the holiday mood.)

Tennessee is called "The Volunteer State." Volunteer soldiers from Tennessee played a large role in the War of 1812, especially during the Battle of New Orleans. Later in the Mexican-American War of 1846, Tennessee sent 30,000 soldiers for the effort.

Nashville is home to the National Football League Titans, the National Hockey League Predators, and Major League Soccer team the Nashville Soccer Club. The city also has a minor league baseball team, the Sounds.

A Nashville hotel led to the name of Maxwell House coffee. Their popular brew was given the hotel's name, and, during a 1907 stay, President Theodore Roosevelt supposedly said, "Good to the last drop," creating the brand's familiar slogan.

Nashville's main public transit system, WeGo Public Transit , has purple buses covering more than 50 routes throughout the city. Plan ahead of time using the service's convenient trip planner as a guide. WeGo offers an bus service to and from the Nashville Airport (BNA). It also offers a park and ride service with free parking at designated locations

The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) operates ten bus routes between Nashville and several other cities as well as linking riders with the WeGo system. In addition, RTA oversees the Music City Star regional rail line.

Taxis, Uber, and Lyft all operate in Nashville.

Bobby Hotel

Address: 230 Fourth Avenue North Phone: (615) 782-7100 Book Now

This creative hotel in historic Printers Alley offers luxury, fun, and a variety of rooms, including one and two-bedroom suites. There's a full-service spa and several dining and cocktail venues including the rooftop lounge where you can sip your drink in a retrofitted 1956 Greyhound bus. When it comes to the best hotels in Nashville . this property pretty much checks all the boxes.

21c Museum Hotel

Address: 221 Second Avenue North Phone: 615-610-6400 Book Now

Set in a restored 1900s building, the hotel offers 124 guest rooms and suites with luxury amenities and original art. The hotel features a fitness center, business center, curated art exhibitions and dining at Gray & Dudley, named for the original building.

Moxy Downtown

Address: 110 Third Avenue South Phone: (615) 986-2091 Book Now

Steps from the Country Music Hall of Fame, the hotel features urban-chic rooms and amenities like locally roasted coffee, a 24-hour fitness center, and Plug & Meet areas. The casual Bar Moxy is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and cocktails.

Dream Hotel

Address: 210 Fourth Avenue North Phone: (615) 622-0600 Book Now

The Dream offers 168 art deco-inspired rooms set in two historic Printers Alley buildings conveniently located near Nashville's popular attractions. There's a fitness center, six dining and nightlife options, and luxury amenities.

Holston House

Address: 118 Seventh Avenue North Phone: (615) 391-1234 Book Now

Set in a historic building, the boutique hotel offers 191 rooms, including six suites blending modern and art deco styles. Roomy corner and penthouse suites offer even more room to relax. The signature restaurant is TENN, and the rooftop lounge, TENN on Top, boasts spectacular city views.

Hotel Indigo

Address: 301 Union Street Phone: (615) 891-6000 Book Now

This former Printers Alley bank building is now a modern hotel featuring a printer-themed lobby and a speakeasy-inspired lounge with local artists and songwriters performing seven nights a week. The District Bar & Kitchen serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Address: 231 Sixth Avenue North Phone: (615) 244-3121

This five-star hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites with soft bedding, plush robes, Bose docking stations, and excellent service. The signature Capital Grille restaurant first opened in 1910 and still serves authentic Southern fare made from the freshest ingredients. With more than 130 bottles, The Oak Bar boasts one of the largest collections of bourbons in Nashville.

Westin Nashville

Address: 807 Clark Place Phone: (615) 248-2800 Book Now

This luxury boutique hotel features guestrooms and one-bedroom suites, including the Presidential Suite with round bed and dazzling city views as well as the highest rooftop lounge in the city, L27. The on-site Rhapsody Spa offers CBD treatments, and their fitness studio is open 24 hours.

Grand Hyatt Nashville

Address: 1000 Broadway Phone: (615) 622-1234 Book Now

This luxury property at Nashville Yards is conveniently located within walking distance of the Gulch and Midtown. The Grand Hyatt boasts one of the highest outdoor rooftop bars in Nashville as well as a pool, spa, and seven dining and beverage options.

Fairlane Hotel

Address: 401 Union Street Phone: (615) 988-8511 Book Now

This retro-modern hotel was originally a bank built in 1972, and its mid-century architectural details have been preserved. Guestrooms and suites are luxuriously and uniquely furnished, and Penthouse Suites offer outdoor terraces with fire pits. Ellington's Restaurant continues the mid-century vibe with its modern take on classic dishes.

Aloft Hotel

Address: 1719 West End Avenue Phone: (615) 329-4200 Book Now

This design-forward hotel is in a lively area near Vanderbilt University less than a mile from downtown. The first floor is for socializing, with a pool table, regional art, and a grab-n-go pantry. The loft-style rooms feature comfortable platform beds and showers with rainfall showerheads.

Graduate Nashville

Address: 101 20th Avenue North Phone: Book Now

This playful and funky hotel in the heart of midtown, and near Vanderbilt University, features luxe guest rooms, animatronic karaoke, and Poindexter, its lobby-level cafe. Its Dolly Parton-themed rooftop bar, White Limozeen , provides stunning views of the Nashville skyline.

Kimpton Aertson

Address: 2021 Broadway Phone: (615) 340-6376 Book Now

This boutique hotel is the centerpiece of the Aertson Midtown mixed-use destination. Its industrial details and refined finishes include a live green wall, open living room, poured concrete floors, and double-sided fireplace. There's a seasonal swimming pool, expansive spa, and views of the Vanderbilt University campus.

Thompson Nashville

Address: 401 11th Avenue South Phone: (615) 262-6000 Book Now

This hip, Gulch hotel offers an inviting space with panoramic city views from floor-to-ceiling windows. Their indoor-outdoor rooftop bar and restaurant, L.A. Jackson, boasts incredible views of downtown Nashville's skyline.

East Nashville

Urban cowboy.

Address: 1603 Woodland Street Phone: (347) 840-0525 Book Now

The boutique hotel's eight uniquely furnished and decorated suites are housed in a historic Victorian mansion. The Public House serves craft cocktails in rustic surroundings or the stylish backyard.

The Dive Motel

Address: 1414 Dickerson Pike Phone: (615) 650-9103

Each of their 23 rooms is one-of-a-kind and equipped with their signature "Party Switch" that spins a Disco Ball with a choice of four channels. Pool, hot tub, and The Dive Bar & Lounge make a stay at The Dive a truly Nashville experience.

Other Nashville Locations

Gaylord opryland resort & convention center.

Address: 2800 Opryland Drive Phone: (615) 889-1000 Book Now

The 3,000 room resort destination is set on the Cumberland River, minutes from Nashville International Airport and a short drive (or riverboat cruise) from downtown. The resort includes nine acres of indoor gardens, an indoor river and waterfalls, a spa, fitness center, golf course, and a range of dining options and events.

Address: 221 Second Avenue North Phone: (615) 610-6460 Website

Adjacent to a museum and historical building, the restaurant honors both with a traditional Southern menu of appetizers, snacks, entrees, and delicious cocktails.

Frothy Monkey

Address: 235 Fifth Avenue North Phone (615) 600-4756 Website

Frothy Monkey has it all, seriously: breakfast, lunch, dinner, desserts, specialty coffees, signature coffee drinks, cocktails, wine, and a kid's menu, salads and sandwiches, and more — just to name a few.

Address: 303 Demonbreun Street Phone: (615) 522-0685 Website

Award winning chef Deb Paquette helms this modern restaurant with an open kitchen and a chef's bar where guests can watch and interact with her. Open for lunch and dinner, the restaurant's menu includes seafood, venison, veal, and a steak carpaccio appetizer.

Address: 611 Commerce Street Phone: (615) 493-4050 Website

Michelin-star Chef James Kerwin serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner of fresh Southern and traditional American fare along with cocktails, specialty drinks, and local draft beers.

Address: 401 Broadway Phone: (615) 254-1892 Website

This three-floor restaurant set in an 1892 building starts with a street level bistro offering cocktails and food. The second floor, a bit more upscale, is open for lunch and dinner with a refined menu and extensive wine offerings. The third floor is a private dining space for business dinners and events.

Nashville Underground

Address: 105 Broadway Phone: (615) 964-3000 Website

This live music venue, restaurant, bar, and event space features the largest and highest double-deck rooftop on Broadway. Southern-inspired dishes including signature Nashville Hot Chicken and BBQ are served on the first and second floors. They serve wine, spirits, and the coldest draft beer in Nashville at 29 degrees.

Address: 505 Third Avenue North Phone: (629) 236-0035 Website

This rooftop bar and restaurant serves a creative menu of appetizers, snacks, entrees, and desserts along with cocktails, wine, and beer in a spectacular setting.

Deacon's New South

Address: 401 Church Street Phone: (615) 994-1994 Website

The restaurant is located in a historic building, but their cuisine is modern, with dry-aged meats and seafood dishes inspired by the Gulf Coast. Traditional and creative cocktails and an extensive wine list are offered.

The Farm House

Address: 210 Almond Street Phone: (615) 522-0688 Website

Chef and owner Trey Ciocca serves lunch, brunch, and dinner offering traditional favorites and Southern classics like cornbread, fried catfish, and pimento cheese beignets along with cocktails, beer, and wine.

B.B. Kings Blues Club

Address: 152 Second Avenue North Phone: (615) 256-2727 Website

Dinner and weekend brunch are served along with blues, rock n' roll, and soul music. The menu is just as varied, with a selection of appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches, entrees, and desserts. Cocktails, wine, and beer are on the menu too.

Hattie B's Chicken

Address: 112 19th Avenue South Phone: (615) 678-4794 Website

Choose your heat level, but know what you're in for if you go with the hottest of the six. Sandwiches, plates, and sides like coleslaw and pimento mac and cheese are served, and there's peach cobbler and banana pudding for dessert.

Address: 2023 Broadway Phone: (615) 340-6378 Website

Billing itself as a "modern American brasserie," Henley is located in the Kimpton Aertson. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Henley's menu includes Southern favorites like Charleston hot crab dip, roasted Tennessee mushrooms, and smoked chicken with Alabama white sauce.

Address: 202 21 Avenue South Phone: (615) 925-3362 Website

Nada's extensive modern Mexican cuisine menu includes guacamole, ceviche, and cochinita pibil, with interesting additions such as cumin roasted beets, Peruvian chicken, and Romenesco al Pastor. Lunch and dinner are served as well as brunch and cocktails.

Jasper's

Address: Nashville, Tennessee 37203 Phone: (615) 327-4410 Website

This casual restaurant is also a grab n' go market with prepared foods like salads, soups, sandwiches, and pastries. The all-day menu includes meatballs, cornbread, enchiladas, wings, and burgers. Weekend brunch offerings include omelets, beignets, and house-cured gravlax.

Address: 1904 Broadway Phone: (615) 320-8580 Website

This gastro-pub style dining spot features creative cuisine in addition to extensive options for cocktails, wine, spirits, and beers. Sports fans will enjoy the fourteen TVs, and foodies will love the menu choices ranging from creative starters to tacos, salads, sandwiches, entrees, and fries. Weekend brunch and late night dining are available.

Mason's

Address: 2100 West End Avenue Phone: (615) 321-1990 Website

Mason's serves seasonal Southern cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the Loews Vanderbilt Hotel. They offer craft cocktails, wines, spirits, and an extensive list of beer from local breweries.

Other Neighborhoods

Rolf and daughters (germantown).

Address: 700 Taylor Street Phone: (615) 866-9897 Website

Located in a historic building and serving Italian and Mediterranean inspired dishes on their seasonally driven menu, the restaurant offers communal tables, patio, and bar for walk-ins as well as dining room reservations.

Redheaded Stranger (East Nashville)

Address: 305 Arrington Street Phone (615) 544-8226 Website

Authentic Tex-Mex dishes include tacos, burritos, and their own signature hot sauces. Cocktails, wine, and beer are served.

Adele's (The Gulch)

Address: 1210 McGavock Street Phone: (615) 988-9700 Website

Dinner and weekend brunch are served with a focus on seasonal comfort food like pork ossobuco, lasagna, and a meatball with polenta appetizer. Weekend brunch offerings include buttermilk biscuits with sausage gravy, egg casserole, and brioche French toast.

The Bluebird Cafe

Address: 4104 Hillsboro Pike Phone: (615) 383-1461 Website

The Bluebird, one of the "world's preeminent listening rooms," presents two shows a night, seven days a week, featuring acoustic singer-songwriter style music by famous and up-and-coming artists.

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Address: 222 Fifth Avenue South Phone: (615) 416-2001 Website

Located in downtown Nashville, the museum includes photographs, artifacts, recordings, vintage video, memorabilia, and interactive activities to tell the story of country music. Performance spaces in the CMA Theater and Ford Theater host live music and cultural events.

Grand Ole Opry

Address: 2804 Opryland Drive Phone: (615) 871-6779 Website

For nearly one hundred years, the Grand Ole Opry, called "home of American music," has showcased country stars on stage, as well as on WSM Radio. See a live show or take a guided backstage tour, starting with an immersive theater experience starring Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood.

RCA Studio B

Address: 1611 Roy Acuff Place Phone: (615) 416-2001 Website

Built in 1957, the studio was home to the "Nashville Sound" in the 1960's, and artists like Elvis Presley, Eddy Arnold, Waylon Jennings, Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, the Everly Brothers, and Floyd Cramer recorded there. Today, you can tour the studio as part of a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

Ryman Auditorium

Address: 116 Fifth Avenue North Phone: (615) 889-3060 Website

Known as one of the best performance halls in the world, this historic venue was home to the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 until 1974. The Ryman hosts numerous concerts and events throughout the year, and visitors can take tours of its star-studded exhibits.

The Johnny Cash Museum

Address: 119 Third Avenue South Phone: (615) 256-1777 Website

This downtown museum contains the largest collection of Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia. Visit for a self-guided tour to see instruments, hand-written notes, awards, stage costumes, and more. Stop for a bite at the cafe next door or at the gift shop for a souvenir.

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

Address: 3777 Nolensville Pike Phone: (615) 833-1534 Website

Nearly 3,000 animals representing about 350 species reside at the zoo, including amphibians, birds, mammals, reptiles, and fish. The 1810 Grassmere Historic Home, on the property, is open for tours. There's a zip line, carousel, playground, and Australian landscape with kangaroos.

Frist Art Museum

Address: 919 Broadway Phone: (615) 244-3340 Website

Exhibits, which rotate periodically since there's no permanent collection, have included Picasso, Albrecht Durer, and a variety of sculpture, vintage automobiles, prints, photography, and video as well as displays by local Nashville artists and Native American art.

The Hermitage

Address: 4580 Rachel's Lane Phone: (615) 889-2941 Website

The home of President Andrew Jackson, a National Historic Landmark with over 30 historic buildings over 1,120 acres, is one of the most visited presidential homes in the U.S. Self-guided and interpreter-led tours of the mansion and grounds are available.

Belle Meade Plantation

Address: 110 Leake Avenue Phone: (615) 356-0501 Website

From an 1807 log cabin set on 250 acres to one of the largest thoroughbred horse farms in the South, Belle Meade tells of Tennessee history, architecture, and equestrian legacy. Several tours are available, including the Mansion Tour and the Journey to Jubilee Tour that tells the stories of the enslaved African-Americans who were at Belle Meade from its beginning through the years following Emancipation.

John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

Address: Enter on 3rd Ave. S between Broadway and Demonbreun, across from the Schermerhorn Symphony Center

The bridge connects downtown Nashville with East Nashville and Nissan Stadium, linking the two sides of the Cumberland River. Closed to automobile traffic in 1998, the bridge provides excellent views of the Nashville skyline

Centennial Park

Address: 2500 West End Avenue Website

The 132-acre park includes a one-mile walking trail, Lake Watauga, historical monuments, a sunken garden, band shell, dog park, sand volleyball courts, and the Parthenon . The full-scale replica serves as an art museum with a recreation of the 42-foot statue of Athena at its center.

Tennessee State Museum

Address: 1000 Rosa L. Parks Boulevard Phone: (615) 741-2692 Website

The Tennessee Time Tunnel tells the story of the state through artifacts, exhibits, and stories from the permanent collection. The exhibits include natural history, archaeology, Civil War and Reconstruction, as well as temporary shows like "Women and the Right to Vote" and "Tennessee's Musical heritage."

White's Mercantile

Address: 2908 12th Avenue South Phone: (615) 750-5379 Website

With two Nashville-area locations, this nostalgic general store carries a variety of products including leather bags, handmade soap, home decor, antiques, and more. Shopping is a pleasure with artistic displays and a surprising assortment of beautiful things.

Hatch Show Print

Address: 224 Fifth Avenue South Phone: (615) 256-2805 Website

The Hatch Show Print show posters served as advertising for concerts from 1879 through the 20th century. Today, the posters are still popular with musicians and performers of all genres. In the downtown shop visitors will find apparel, greeting cards, prints, and custom work.

Imogene + Willie

Address: 2601 12th Avenue South Phone: (615) 292-5005 Website

This chic store specializes in denim, but also offers clothing for men and women, including tee shirts, jackets, accessories, and jewelry. Their signature candle incorporates scents of sage, palo santo, frankincense, and shiso leaf.

Rachel's Boutique

Address: 231 Sixth Avenue North Phone: (615) 345-7149 Website

From fashionable clothing to custom jewelry, this boutique carries creations from Nashville's local artisans. It offers home decor, gifts, linens, kitchen products, candles, and more.

Fanny's House of Music

Address: 1101 Holly Street Phone: (615) 750-5746 Website

Fanny's is a full-service music store with a variety of new, used, and vintage guitars and amps. It also offers professional lessons and repairs as well as clothing and gifts.

Antique Archaeology

Address:1300 Clinton Street, Suite 130 Phone: (615) 810-9906 Website

This is the home of the American Pickers , and it's the place for antiques, clothing, home goods, gifts, drinkware, and more. They offer clothing and accessories in Mike Wolfe's Two Lane brand.

Goorin Brothers

Address: 107 Second Avenue North Phone: (615) 248-4287 Website

Set in The District neighborhood, this is the place to find a wide selection of top quality hats for men and women. They offer fedoras, flat caps, baseball hats, straw hats, and cold weather beanies.

High Class Hillbilly

Address: 4604 Gallatin Pike Phone: (615) 840-7328 Website

Hand-selected vintage items from across the U.S. fill this boutique with vintage boots, hats, leather goods, tee shirts, and more. Denim jeans, jackets, shorts and accessories for men, women, and children are on display in addition to belts, belt buckles, jewelry, and purses.

Music Valley Antiques and Marketplace

Address: 1300 Clinton Street Phone: (615) 557-6560 Website

More than 30 vendors offer vintage furniture, home decor, accessories, and art.

Shopping Malls

Address: 433 Opry Mills Drive Phone: (615) 514-1000 Website

Tennessee's largest outlet, retail, shopping, dining, and entertainment destination.

The Mall at Green Hills

Address: 2126 Abbott Martin Road Phone: (615) 298-5478 Website

More than a hundred stores, including top luxury designer brands, can be found at this mall located three miles from downtown Nashville.

Downtown : This is the business center of Nashville as well as the location of Nissan Stadium, home of the Tennessee Titans. Printers Alley, once the center of newspaper publishing, is now full of lively nightlife. Hotels, restaurants, and museums, including the Country Music Hall of Fame, reside in downtown Nashville.

Midtown : Adjacent to Vanderbilt University, with its 18th century architecture and sculpture gardens, Midtown is a neighborhood between downtown, Music Row, and West End. Restaurants, bars, hotels, and Centennial Park are conveniently located in this walkable neighborhood.

Music Row/Demonbreun/Edgehill : Just southwest of downtown, this area is Nashville's entertainment industry. This neighborhood is home to a variety of recording studios including the historic RCA Studio B. At its entry, a 40 foot bronze sculpture named "Musica" features nine figures celebrating the energy and diversity of the music industry.

Germantown : This urban residential community is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A few blocks northwest of downtown, the neighborhood is home to the Tennessee State Museum. Boutiques and restaurants abound in this area named for European immigrants who settled there in the mid-19th century.

The Gulch : This walkable community is located just south of downtown in a revitalized industrial area. Street art, live music venues, breweries, hotels, and restaurants make it a popular destination.

East Nashville : Dive bars, craft breweries, coffee shops, historic homes, art galleries, and vintage stores make up the culturally-diverse, artsy neighborhood. East Nashville is located across the Cumberland River from downtown.

Opryland : This neighborhood, located ten miles east of downtown, is home to Music Valley, Grand Ole Opry, and the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center. The Opry Mills shopping center, Willie Nelson Museum, SoundWaves water park, and a variety of family-friendly restaurants can be found in this area.

West End/Elliston Place : Centennial Park, with its replica of the Greek Parthenon, is located in this neighborhood adjacent to Vanderbilt University.

Nashville has a subtropical type of climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Annual precipitation is about 47 inches, with the majority occurring in spring, particularly during the month of May. Spring is tornado season in Middle Tennessee.

Temperatures begin to cool in September, and autumn typically receives the least rainfall. Winter is colder, with little snow, usually about seven inches total, mostly during January.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month.

January 28 - 47 February 32 - 52 March 39 - 61 April 47 - 71 May 57 - 78 June 65 - 86 July 69 - 89 August 68 - 89 September 61 - 82 October 49 - 72 November 39 - 60 December 31 - 49

Nashville Visitors Guide : attractions, restaurants, shops, hotels iOS | Android

Opry : Listen to WSM; calendar of shows and artist appearances; purchase event tickets iOS | Android

Nashville Live Music Guide : calendar of shows, venues, all music genres; listing by area iOS | Android

WKRN Nashville News 2 : local news, weather, sports coverage iOS | Android

Uber : Rideshare servicing Nashville iOS | Android

Lyft : Rideshare servicing Nashville iOS | Android

Nashville Travel Guide [2024]

Updated : April 18, 2024

AAA Travel Editor, WA

Table of contents, best time to visit nashville, top things to do in nashville, best hotels in nashville, best restaurants in nashville, nashville safety tips, planning your trip to nashville.

Known as Music City USA, Nashville is the capitol of Tennessee and the state's largest city. It's also an economic powerhouse with a rapidly growing economy that attracts far more than aspiring musical superstars. Some think of Nashville as the "Athens of the South" because it is home to so many universities. For others, Nashville is best known as the heart of country music. The city is home to Grand Ole Opry, where performers like Dolly Parton, Vince Gill, Reba McIntire, Loretta Lynn and countless others have graced the stage. The Ryman Auditorium is another major performance venue that has left its mark on the city and hosts concerts throughout the year.

Though folk, bluegrass and country music are at the heart of Nashville's ethos, you'll also find pop, rock, hip-hop, and more being played at venues throughout Nashville. A bustling music and nightlife scene has something for everyone, but there's more to Nashville than music and nightlife. You'll also find a thriving economy; multiple colleges, including Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, and Tennessee State, to name a few. The city is home to gorgeous public spaces, museums, personality-filled boutique hotels and world-class dining.

Nashville's history goes way back. The state of Tennessee is known as the Volunteer State because of the sheer volume of volunteers to serve in the War of 1812. Nashville itself was founded in 1779 by a gentleman named Francis Nash, a general in the Continental Army during the American Revolution. Today, you'll find deep roots, warm smiles, and a unique urban personality that you won't find anywhere else.

Whether you're staying for a couple of days or a couple of weeks, this curated Nashville travel guide will point you to plenty of things to do in Nashville to help you savor a one-of-a-kind experience.

• Time Zone: Central Time Zone
• Airport: Nashville Interational Airport - BNA
• Currency: US Dollar
• Language Spoken: English

Getting around Nashville is easy thanks to the well-equipped infrastructure and public transportation system. Nashville's public transportation system is called WeGo Public Transit, and it covers the majority of Nashville. The easily recognizable purple buses offer service to and from the Nashville Airport (BNA), and if you're driving into the city, you'll find free park-and-ride lots at multiple locations around town. WeGo's online trip planner makes it fairly easy to plan your route ahead of time to make sure you'll hit the right bus when you need it.

You can also easily rent a car through Hertz , or grab a taxi, Uber or Lyft. Downtown Nashville is also friendly for walkers and bikers.

For the most temperate, enjoyable weather, you'll want to visit Nashville in the spring or autumn. Most agree that the most pleasant, comfortable months in Nashville are April-May and September-October. Though Tennessee's climate is generally mild, it can get hot and humid in the summer months and a bit cold and rainy during the winter. Of course, that makes spring and fall peak tourist season for many of Nashville's landmarks, so if avoiding crowds is high on your priority list, you might want to plan to visit during the off-season instead.

When planning your trip, keep in mind that some seasonal festivals draw big crowds. In the mood for a Cherry Blossom Festival? April is your month. CMA (Country Music Association) Fest is in June, as is the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival. The Nashville Film Festival is in September, or you could visit the following month for Nashville's Oktoberfest. You'll find big-name concerts and other events occurring in the city year-round, though; chances are good something exciting will be happening no matter when you plan a trip. Read on through our Nashville travel guide for ideas to fill your Nashville trip itinerary.

Navigating Broadway and Live Music in Nashville

For many who visit Nashville, it's all about the music. But navigating the live music scene in Music City can feel overwhelming because of the sheer number of performance venues and locations to check out.

For classical music and jazz, the Schermerhorn Symphony Center is the place to go. Located in downtown Nashville across from the Country Music Hall of Fame, this elegant building is home to the Nashville Symphony Orchestra. Throughout the year, you can catch live performances from the orchestra, as well as concerts by smaller ensembles, chamber groups, and performers from around the world.

It's impossible to talk about Nashville's live music scene without mentioning The Grand Ole Opry. A Nashville institution, the Opry was originally a "barn dance" style radio show. Today, the Grand Ole Opry offers weekly performances and guided backstage tours . For country music fans, it doesn't get much more iconic than this stage, which is smaller than many visitors expect. Settle in and take in a show in the same intimate venue where many country music stars got their start.

Music Row is considered the heart of the music industry in Nashville. More a historic neighborhood than an actual "row," Music Row spreads around 16th and 17th Avenues South in downtown Nashville. The neighborhood is home to many publishing houses and music industry offices, most of which specialize in traditional country, folk, bluegrass, and gospel. More than 200 of Elvis Presley's songs were recorded at RCA's famous Studio B on Music Row. Chet Atkins, Dolly Parton, the Everly Brothers and countless other stars recorded many of their albums in this area.

For smaller-venue live music happening all year long, you have to visit Broadway. A major thoroughfare running through downtown Nashville, Broadway runs from 21st Avenue South all the way to 1st Avenue; it crosses Music Row and The Gulch neighborhoods, and it's sparkling with restaurants, shops, and live music venues. The southern portion of Broadway is known as Honky Tonk Highway, where you'll find multiple venues cranking up the music well into the small hours of the night, with no cover charge. You can easily spend an entire evening walking from live music venue to live music venue, enjoying acts ranging from rock 'n' roll, pop, country and even a little punk rock.

Just off the intersection of Broadway and 4th, the Ryman Auditorium is worth a stop. It's one of the city's best-known concert halls and performance venues; depending on the schedule when you're visiting, you might find bluegrass concerts, comedy tours, or other internationally-known performers gracing the stage.

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame

The Country Music Hall of Fame is one of Nashville's most-visited sites. You'll find more history than you knew to expect when you walk through the doors; everything from tear-stained lyric sheets to rhinestone-studded costumes, storied guitars and incredible architecture are to be found here. You don't have to be in love with country music to find something to love here.

Take a Tour of the Historic Belle Meade Mansion

Get a taste of old-world hospitality (and some fine wine) on a tour of the historic Belle Meade Estate , which was one of the wealthiest private estates in Nashville in the early 1800's. You'll learn a bit about Nashville's history, the upper echelon of Nashville's society, and the rearing of thoroughbred horses. Belle Meade is a gorgeous estate that's still filled with peace. The grounds, on-site winery and restaurant, and guided tour all offer a lovely way to spend a couple of hours.

Go on a Dinner Cruise on the Cumberland River

The Cumberland River is a central part of Nashville's history, and you can hop on a large paddlewheel riverboat to enjoy an elegant lunch or dinner with great music playing and top-notch views of the downtown Nashville skyline just outside. The General Jackson Showboat doesn't hold back; expect a Vegas-style show along with your dinner as you roll on down the river.

Visit the Tennessee State Capitol Building

Tenessee's State Capitol building is one of the oldest operating capitol buildings in the country; it looks just like it did when the doors first opened in 1859. Based on Greek architecture and designed by architect William Strickland, expect to be impressed by the stately lines of the building and the lively frescoes adorning the ceilings inside. You can take a self-guided or a guided tour of the building on weekday mornings until early afternoon; it's an easy stop if you're already visiting the Ryman Auditorium or the surrounding neighborhood.

Stop by Centennial Park

Centennial Park is the heart of Nashville's park scene. Featuring a true-to-life replica of the Greek Parthenon in Athens, Centennial Park offers sprawling green lawns, a playground, a dog park, and plenty of benches. Grab a cup of coffee or lunch to go and relax on a bench to enjoy the views of the lake and the lush, meticulously landscaped surroundings. Community events often take place here, and the Parthenon is beautifully lit at night.

Visit the Johnny Cash Museum

The Johnny Cash Museum isn't huge; in fact, it only takes about an hour to explore. But it's well worth a stop for fans of the musical icon. You'll learn about Cash's musical and personal life, and take in some of the memorabilia that you won't see anywhere else: old military uniforms, for example, and letters to his wives. The museum is completely accessible and self-guided, so you can take your time to explore each exhibit and grab a coffee or a bite to eat from the small on-site café.

Explore the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is a welcome escape for visitors of all ages. This gorgeous zoo offers plenty of lovely manicured space to explore. If you have kids along for the trip, they'll love the huge playground with expansive climbing structures and a 35-foot-high treehouse. This is an ideal place for kids to let loose and adults to relax a bit! Thousands of animals are happy and well cared for in their carefully-designed habitats. The Nashville Zoo is about fifteen minutes south of downtown Nashville by car.

If you want to see more of the city in one fell swoop, it might make sense for you to grab a hop-on, hop-off trolley ticket , or book a craft cocktail and fine dining tour or an electric bike music tour of the city. These will all give you a taste of what Nashville has to offer, so you can follow up by exploring more on your own, if desired. You'll find even more Nashville things to do right here .

When it comes to Nashville's hotel scene, you'll find a little of everything, from upscale luxury getaways to personality-filled boutiques. These are just a few of the top choices.

W Nashville

• Best For: luxury
• Amenities: restaurants, bars, pool, valet, room service, coffee shop, yoga lawn and contemporary design
• Location: Downtown Nashville, minutes from the Country Music Hall of Fame

The W Nashville is a sprawling 13-story hotel in Nashville's high-end Gulch district. It's within easy walking distance of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Ryman Auditorium. Expect polished design featuring music-themed artwork, open-concept rooms and suites, and plenty of amenities. Multiple restaurants and bars on-site make it easy to grab what you need without leaving the building.

Banker's Alley Hotel Nashville

• Best For: ambiance and location
• Amenities: fitness center, restaurant and live Music
• Location: Arts District, one block from Broadway

Set in a red-brick building that was built in 1900, Banker's Alley is packed with personality, ambiance, and upscale charm. Though the rooms aren't huge, they're thoughtfully designed and curated. Expect features like Nespresso machines in each room, high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property, and an industrial-chic restaurant and full bar. It's hard to beat the location, as well; Banker's Alley is just two blocks from the Cumberland River and minutes away from a huge array of music, dining and shopping venues on Broadway.

Graduate Nashville

• Best For: boutique experience
• Amenities: pool, fitness center, three restaurants, full bar and entertainment
• Location: Midtown Nashville on Broadway

A boutique hotel with bold, retro style, Graduate Nashville has a lot to offer. Expect details like plush velvet upholstery, bold pink floral patterns, a country-chic style that's been updated for contemporary audiences and a rooftop restaurant serving up mouthwatering cuisine. Graduate promises a unique, memorable stay and the location is very tough to beat: it's just a few minutes' walk from Music Row, Centennial Park and Vanderbilt University.

Holston House

• Best For: historic luxury
• Amenities: three restaurants, full bar, rooftop pool, valet, room service and fitness center
• Location: five minutes from Ryman Auditorium in Midtown Nashville

Holston House is set in a 1920's-era Art Deco style building. The ethos of the entire building is old-world luxury, and that's what you'll find here, from the sophisticated lobby to the elegant rooms and suites. Expect on-point amenities, a rooftop pool, a bar and live entertainment. Holston House offers a hip, upscale experience in one of Nashville's best neighborhoods. It's easy to walk to some of the city's best sights, dining and shopping within minutes of stepping out the door.

Nashville has plenty of restaurants to choose from. From down-home American Southern cuisine to the hot chicken that Nashville is famous for, you'll find it here. A growing culinary scene has something for every palate, so whether you're looking for the finest of fine dining or the greasy spoons that locals keep coming back to, we've got you covered with the best restaurants in Nashville.

Midtown Cafe

Best For: date night

Address: 102 19th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203

Type of Cuisine: American

Midtown Cafe is an intimate, classy restaurant in Midtown Nashville. Perfect for a date night or dinner with friends, Midtown's chic atmosphere blends industrial-chic elegance and contemporary art. Beautifully plated food, great drinks and impeccable service are hallmarks of this restaurant, which is why locals and visitors alike return again and again. Reservations are recommended, but not required. Midtown is also open for breakfast and it is arguably one of the best breakfasts in Nashville.

Nada Nashville

Best For: casual Lunch or dinner

Address: 202 21st Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203

Type of Cuisine: Mexican

Nada is a bright, airy small-chain restaurant serving up mouthwatering Mexican food in a casual environment. Whether you're in the mood for fajitas, enchiladas, or a truly excellent margarita, you'll find it here. Expect a fun, hip atmosphere, attentive service, and classic Mexican food offerings served up quickly.

Best For: hearty comfort food and a great atmosphere

Address: 611 Commerce St, Nashville, TN 37203

Type of Cuisine: Southern American

Little Fib is set in a historic atmosphere and serves up retro American cuisine, including a wide array of Southern-style favorites. The roomy hotel is stylish and fun without being pretentious; the atmosphere is great for families, friends or a date night. A great stop for breakfast, lunch or dinner, expect prompt service and hearty servings of mouthwatering Southern food.

Sambuca Restaurant

Best For: small plates and live Music

Address: 601 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203

This hip restaurant/music venue is loaded with atmosphere. Whether you try the pizza, steak or just go for happy hour cocktails and tapas, you'll find something to suit your taste here. Sambuca is located in the hip Gulch District, and it's an excellent date night spot to enjoy great music, drinks and dinner.

The Stillery

Best For: classy casual food and drinks

Address: 1921 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203

Type of Cuisine: elevated pub

The Stillery serves up brick oven pizzas and freshly-grilled burgers, along with mason jar cocktails and an array of local draft beers. Live music on weekends, happy hours on weekdays and a fun, friendly vibe make this an easy hangout spot, whether you're grabbing a dinner with family or heading out for a quick drink with friends.

Trattoria Il Mulino

Best For: chic Italian cuisine

Address: 144 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN 37201

Type of Cuisine: Italian

The elegant atmosphere of Trattoria Il Mulino is a lovely antidote to the rollicking atmosphere of many of Nashville's gastropubs and honky tonks. Expect a quiet, relaxing atmosphere, chic design and gorgeously plated dishes, along with attentive service that consistently earns Trattoria Il Mulino rave reviews. Perfect for a date night or special dinner you won't soon forget.

Hattie B's Hot Chicken

Best For: quick and casual

Address: 5069 Broadway Suite A-103, Nashville, TN 37203

Type of Cuisine: fried chicken

Hot chicken is a Nashville staple, and Hattie B's is probably the best-known local chain serving up the good stuff. Expect fried chicken seasoned in various levels of spiciness, from mild to "Shut the Cluck Up," which is just as spicy as it sounds. Hattie B's also serves a variety of sandwiches, fries, and sides, but their specialty and the centerpiece of the menu is definitely the fried chicken. There are multiple locations throughout Nashville, but the one on Broadway is most convenient to the downtown sights.

Nashville is known as a safe city to walk, bike and explore. But as with any city, it's smart to use common sense when sightseeing. Take sensible precautions like traveling in well-lit, populated areas. Lock the door of your rental car and don't leave things behind in your vehicle, and keep money and valuables out of sight when you're out exploring.

When thinking of the best time to visit Nashville it’s important to know that AAA members can access perks and take advances for vacation planning such as getting the best discounts on hotels , rental cars and entertainment tickets. 

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The Perfect 3 Days in Nashville Itinerary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Wondering what activities and attractions you can’t miss in the Music City? Our Nashville itinerary is just what you need!

Nashville may have developed a reputation for big nights, but it’s one of those rare tourist destinations that continues to deliver the goods even as the crowds grow.

Nashville is perfectly built for a three-day itinerary. There are several wonderful neighborhoods to explore, some beautiful parks, and historic buildings that complement Nashville’s mind-blowing live music scene.

Your days can be spent jumping between each sub-district from East Nashville to the Gulch, sampling the local cuisine (hello, hot chicken) and learning about the musicians that made the city legendary.

At night, all roads lead to the Honky Tonk Highway, where you can enjoy fantastic live music and an atmosphere that, while rowdy, is pure and joyful.

Read on to see how you can experience Nashville’s history, food, and music!

READ NEXT: Be sure to check out our list of the 21 best things to do in Nashville before your trip!

Table of Contents

Day 1 Morning

Day 1 afternoon, day 1 evening, day 2 morning, day 2 afternoon, day 2 evening, day 3 morning, day 3 afternoon, day 3 evening, when is the best time to visit nashville, getting around nashville, best hostel in nashville: nashville downtown hostel, best mid-range hotel in nashville: nashville riverfront lofts, best luxury hotel in nashville: the hermitage hotel, how to spend 3 days in nashville itinerary.

There isn’t just one way to experience Nashville. Sure, it’s the Music Capital, but there’s plenty of history, great food, and art to experience across your weekend in Nashville. Let’s get started.

Day 1 in Nashville

Your three days in Nashville start off with plenty of sun and fun at Centennial Park.

Not only will you be able to rest your legs after a long trip to the Music City, but you’ll be able to enjoy an upbeat atmosphere and some eye-catching architecture.

From there, your itinerary guides you down one of Nashville’s most famous streets on your way to one of the top attractions in town.

Afterward, day one ends with a big night making your way up and down Broadway.

Your first morning in Nashville begins with a bike ride through the city. The Music City has fantastic year-round weather that will have you bursting to get outside and explore its many parks, the riverfront, and a handful of historic streets.

But to begin, whether you’re in Downtown Nashville or elsewhere, jump on one of the  BCycle  bikes (they’re now electric!) and make your way to the Parthenon .

No, you won’t have to fly all the way to Greece. Instead, a striking replica is waiting for you in Centennial Park .

The spacious green lawns and old-time trees provide ample space to lay down the bike and soak in the sunshine. You’ll be met with a great local atmosphere, food carts and, of course, the replica building which was created in 1897.

Within the Parthenon is a collection of contemporary and modern American art. You can also sign up for a tour to discover the fascinating architecture of the Parthenon and the story behind how it ended up in Nashville.

In the afternoon, you’ll be exploring downtown Nashville. But on your way there, ride down the famous Music Row . This will take you by the iconic RCA Studio B where Elvis weaved his magic and Dolly Parton recorded some of her biggest hits.

Ditch the bike and tour Music Row on the  Old Town Trolley .

After a relaxing morning in Centennial Park, it’s time to see why Nashville is the country music capital of the world. Whether you’re a country music fan or not, this experience begins at the Country Music Hall of Fame .

Nashville’s country music scene is legendary and at the hall of fame, you can discover the tales behind the city’s rise to a music mecca. Enjoy learning about the many voices that have become famous not just here in the U.S. but around the world.

The Country Music Hall of Fame is the perfect introduction before spending the night dancing your way down the Honky Tonk Highway.

You’ll be able to get to know the many famous artists in detail as you gaze upon Elvis’ memorable Cadillac limousine and guitars that were once in the hands of the one and only Carrie Underwood.

They are just a handful of the Hall’s 800 artifacts, costumes, and memorabilia!

Book your entry ticket to the Country Music Hall of Fame on Get Your Guide!

Before the afternoon turns to dusk, it’s time to kit out for a night on the town. In Nashville, that can only mean one thing, boots.

There are a bunch of options around the downtown area, including Lucchese Boots, the beloved Boot Country, and 2for1 Boots for any traveler looking to save a penny.

Now that you’ve brushed up on your music history, it’s time to trade the books for a pair of cowboy boots and make your way to Broadway .

Nashville isn’t just the heart of America’s country music scene, it’s also a haven for live music. The rows of venues sling live tunes from the early morning hours to, well, the early morning hours.

This (almost) full-day extravaganza is at the center of what will make your weekend in Nashville such a thrilling experience. It’s not just your average cover band experience either, with many of the musicians trying to make it to the big time.

Such is the quality of music and the intoxicating atmosphere, you wouldn’t blame the bars and clubs for charging a cover fee. But none of them do. This means you can wander up and down the Honky Tonk Highway as you please.

Some of the best music bars to keep an eye on include The Stage, Second Fiddle and the Legends Corner. You can’t go wrong. If you want to test out your own talent, then you can get behind the microphone at Wanna B’s Karaoke Bar .

The most famous of the venues along Broadway, however, is Tootsies . It began as a humble bar back in the 1960s and is not an unmissable attraction. Enjoy the excellent music along with the refreshing rooftop with epic views of Downtown Nashville.

Day 2 in Nashville

After trying to get a good night’s sleep, day two starts with a bang as you make your way around the heart of Nashville to explore top sights and historic buildings.

Learn all about the city’s musical past and even pay a visit to a local farmers’ market.

Later, tour the Grand Ole Opry or stick around for a live show to understand how it holds such a presence across the United States. Night two ends in East Nashville with good food and an even better time.

READ NEXT: Don’t miss all of the best things to do in Memphis while you’re in the area!

Your head may be pounding from a big night on Broadway, but with so much to do in Nashville, we have no time to waste.

At your leisure, wake up, grab your preferred hangover cure and get back downtown. The grid-like streets of Nashville and the lack of elevation change ensure that the Tennessee capital is a pleasure to walk around.

You can see the best sights on this  walking tour . The best part? It’s self-guided and self-paced, which is the perfect option as who wants to be in a crowd of people after a big night on the town? On your walk, you’ll discover more of Nashville’s music history along with some of the city’s hidden gems.

As you’re guided around town with some fun and interesting narration, you’ll also enjoy some tunes that fit what you’re seeing.

Take a trip into the past and uncover the old stomping crowds of Johnny Cash and Elvis, wander along the eclectic Printer’s Alley and by the Ryman Auditorium.

Afterward, you’ll be in a great position to visit three other major sites in Nashville, the beautiful Tennessee State Capitol Building home to the relaxing Victory Park, the Frist Art Museum , and the Nashville Farmers Market .

The Farmers Market is a great spot to load up the picnic basket for lunch in the park. You’ll also uncover rows of artisan treats, handcraft goods, and a great food court.

After a morning of music and history, it’s time to visit perhaps the most historic music venue, not just in Nashville but in all of the United States, the Grand Ole Opry House.

The iconic venue opened in the 1920s and from the get-go concerts were broadcast over the radio. It’s continued over the 100-plus years, making it the longest continually run radio program in the nation’s history.

Watching one of your favorite musicians grace the famous stage is on the bucket list of many travelers (you can check their schedule  here ). But it’s not just country music fans that want to grab a spot in the Grand Ole Opry, it’s the musicians as well.

You see, it’s not just enough to call up your manager and book a spot. Musicians have to be invited to perform by someone that already played here. It’s safe to say that standing on the stage at the Grand Ole Opry is an exclusive feat.

Its reverence means that musicians always want to play here, ensuring a packed lineup of stars for you to enjoy.

However, if your favorite acts aren’t in town during your Nashville weekend getaway, don’t skip out on a visit! This  behind-the-scenes experience  promises to be just as unique as a live show.

Retrace the footsteps of some of America’s biggest stars, hear old-time tales of past legends, wander out onto the revered stage and even venture into the green room where the musicians have stood for over 100 years before their shows.

READ NEXT: While you’re in Tennessee, consider taking a short drive to check out the best things to do in Louisville, Kentucky .

If you aren’t settling in for a show at the Grand Ole Opry, then take the night to explore the other side of Nashville.

Across the Cumberland River, East Nashville offers a glimpse into local life that those on bachelor and bachelorette parties won’t get the chance to see.

East Nasty isn’t anything like its nickname, harboring a wonderful charm, great bars and an even better arts community. The neighborhood rivals The Gulch as the coolest in Nashville and its distance from downtown can give travelers a break from the crowds.

It’s effortlessly laid back, and a place worth arriving before dusk in order to explore the many boutique art galleries and colorful thrift stores.

But if you are wandering across the river around sunset, be sure to stop at the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge to enjoy one of the best golden hour spots in Nashville.

With the sounds of the Honky Tonk in the rearview mirror, dive into East Nashville’s outstanding, but underrated, nightlife. Here, you’ll find some great pubs to knock back a pint with friends and enjoy some live tunes before tucking into the area’s delicious food scene.

Some of the best bars to visit in East Nashville include the Crow Bar , where you can pair beer-cheese nachos with your favorite adult beverages.

Then there is Mickey’s Tavern where the jukebox works overtime and the Crying Wolf. The latter is a top spot for live music best enjoyed alongside a row of sliders and a great selection of beer.

Day 3 in Nashville

Day three has quickly come upon us, but don’t worry, you won’t be taking the foot off the gas.

Hit up some local museums or wander around Nashville’s chic districts to discover its fabulous street art.

Spend your afternoon jumping between distilleries, sipping whiskey and learning all about their place in Tennessee culture. Finally, kick back at one of Nashville’s most beloved institutions.

READ NEXT: Check out our post on all the best things to do in St. Louis , Missouri.

Your last morning in Nashville is a great opportunity to tick off any attractions that you have yet to experience. Those visiting Nashville may want to explore either of the following three destinations to round out the trip. The first is the Johnny Cash Museum.

You would have wandered by the Johnny Cash Museum on your journey down Broadway, but it’s well worth popping in and seeing what all the fuss is about.

As the name suggests, the space is all about the legendary musician. It features a wide range of exhibits from his costumes and instruments, even some handwritten lyrics that marked the beginning of some of his biggest hits.

The second option is the Tennessee State Museum , where you can go beyond the music and learn about local and state history.

The Tennessee State Museum is beside the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park and will guide you beyond the Civil War back into the past where Native American communities first explored the land.

Last up, you may wish to experience Nashville’s street art scene. The city’s many narrow alleys are the perfect honeypot for murals and other pieces. But you’ll also find plenty of color under bridges and in random parking lots.

One of the top murals in Nashville is “Wings” which is found in the Gulch. From there, wander down 11th Avenue to find even more pieces. Other popular neighborhoods for street art include Germantown and East Nashville.

Nashville may be renowned for its live music scene, but Tennessee as a whole has a different kind of reputation. Kentucky may be the heart of distilling in America, but the Volunteer State isn’t lagging far behind.

Within a brief drive from Nashville, you can arrive at a number of distilleries that not only showcase quality products but also tell the tales of liquor in Tennessee before, during and after the Prohibition.

On this  whiskey tasting tour  you’ll visit the iconic Jack Daniel’s Distillery along with George Dickey Tennessee.

Travelers will be able to take a peek behind the curtain at the process of creating such beloved whiskeys before sampling the product. Not only is it tasty, but the tales behind each drink are as interesting as any.

This distillery tour does, however, take up much of your last day on your Nashville itinerary. For a shorter experience, take a self-guided trip down the Masters and Makers Trail . Start and end where you wish, picking up a passport along the way to commemorate each distillery you visit.

The trail takes you to some of the best and little-known distilleries around Nashville while providing you with a front-row seat to the beauty of the countryside in Williamson County.

If you only have time for one distillery, then make a beeline for the cozy Leiper’s Fork Distiller with its famous cabin and songwriter nights.

While you’re in the area, check out this post on the best things to do in Asheville, North Carolina !

To finish off your three days in Nashville, participate in one of the Music City’s most hallowed traditions. The Bluebird Cafe is the city’s best example that music, not partying and bachelorette nights, is at the core of its identity.

North of downtown, the Bluebird Cafe is a local institution. It’s the go-to place for up-and-coming singer-songwriters (hello, Taylor Swift) and those who have played at major venues.

It’s an intimate setting, with just a few seats set around a small stage. If you didn’t know any better, it would just be a regular cafe with a musician and their guitar.

But throughout history, it’s been a place where new lyrics are put to the test, honed and refined before hitting our airwaves.

Read Next: Check out this post to learn about the best day trips from Nashville .

Only a handful of tickets are put on sale and the rest are first-come, first-serve. It’s a unique experience and one that’s worth planning your day around.

For the lucky few who get to witness a night at the Bluebird Cafe, you’ll enjoy a close-up experience of a delightful acoustic set. Who knows? It could be the basis of the next great country hit!

To reserve your spot, or to see what’s on at the beloved venue on your Nashville trip,  click here .

Nashville Travel Guide

Now that you know what to do in Nashville, here is some information that will help you know the best time to visit, how to get around and where to stay when you visit.

Nashville is one of those lucky destinations that doesn’t have a strong “off-season”.

Sure, it heats up in the summer, in a number of ways, but with great year-round weather, the cold isn’t something you need to worry about. Neither is the slowing down of live music.

During the summer, Nashville can get quite hot. It’s also when the local festivals kick-off and the crowds swarm around the downtown streets.

For those who love to get about on foot, spring and fall are great times to visit. You can enjoy the parks, explore the countryside, and still enjoy balmy evenings on the roof of Tootsies.

You won’t have a hard time completing your Nashville weekend itinerary. Getting around the Music City is easy thanks to the compact nature of the area.

You can easily walk around downtown, seeing all the highlights from the Hall of Fame, to Broadway and the Capitol building. In order to head north to Centennial Park or across the Cumberland River to East Nashville, simply jump on one of the electric bikes.

Nashville also has a decent  public bus network . The routes can take you between all major neighborhoods, with each ride costing $2. Visitors can also pick up a 7-day pass for $20, which features unlimited rides.

Nashville International Airport is 20 minutes southeast of downtown. Bus 18 is the cheapest way to go between destinations. Rideshare is also available.

Read next: Plan the ultimate 3 Days in Atlanta Itinerary

Where to Stay in Nashville

If you’re wondering where to stay in the city, our recommendations for the best accommodation in Nashville will help you choose the top spot for your budget!

When it comes to hostels in Nashville, there aren’t a lot of options. Nashville Downtown Hostel is the best, however, and gives you VIP access to Broadway. The hostel is temporarily closed for renovations, but you can find updates and contact info on their website.

At  Nashville Riverfront Lofts  you’ll sleep right on the banks of the beautiful Cumberland River.

Guests will have a private balcony with great sunset views, along with a full kitchen to cook up a storm. From your room, you’ll have easy access to some of the top attractions in Downtown Nashville.

Want to treat yourself during your weekend in Nashville? Then book a night at the  Hermitage Hotel . Your luxury rooms are paired with several on-site services, including restaurants and bars, a spa facility and a concierge at your disposal.

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Attractions & Events in Music City!

Nashville is an exciting vacation destination, with all of the live music and history there are a ton of fun things to do. Plan your Nashville Tennessee Vacation with us. Make the most of your Music City Vacation! Tune into every sweet note Nashville Tennessee has to offer. Start here with our Nashville Vacation Planner & Guide. We also have a What to See and Do in Nashville and a Nashville Vacation with Kids Guide. We hope you enjoy all the Nashville happenings.

Live Music Downtown

It would be a shame to visit Nashville without checking out all of the live music downtown. 2nd Avenue and Broadway are the well know (and for a really good reason) venues, but you can travel (by foot, car, or trolley) to a number of other streets to find fun and happening honky-tonks. Most downtown Honky-tonks are kid & family friendly until 9 PM because they know everyone enjoys great music & dancing!

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You have to see the Grand Ole Opry get your Friday or Saturday night tickets. There are music related museums such as The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum , The Ryman (original home of the Grand Ole Opry, and the Antique Archaeology seen on American Pickers.

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When a city is full of creative people the city has an appreciation for all things art, check out Nashville's Frist Center for the Visual Arts and The Parthenon two more MUST SEEs in Nashville. Here are a few other attractions you will want to visit while in Nashville:

Don't leave Nashville without hearing Brit Stokes and the Brit Stokes Band performing in the downtown honky-tonks. Live music is everywhere in Music City! Enjoy Life - Nashville Life!

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Looking for the best local tips to plan your future trip to Music City? Use Nashville’s newest trip planning service provided by those who know the city best!

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Home » North America » USA » Nashville

The BEST Nashville Travel Guide (+ Budget Tips • 2024)

If you love live music and partying like a rock star, then you’d better get your ass to Nashville.

While it’s a city best known as the “Country Music Capital of the World,” the capital of Tennessee attracts much more than country music. On any given night out in Music City , you’re just as likely to find live hip hop, rock, or electronic music as you are country.

Of course, country music is definitely still a cornerstone of local Nashville culture. With sights such as the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Johnny Cash Museum , Nashville is the perfect place to learn all about this famous style of American music.

Obviously, this is the best Nashville travel guide. So I’m going to dish all the info on Country music – and all music for that matter – along with Nashville budget travel tips, and some killer itineraries.

We’ll take a look at the best things to do in Nashville, plan out an awesome weekend itinerary, and share some insider tips about how to stretch your budget in Nashville TN.

Ready to plan a Music City getaway?

Let’s rock!

Why Visit Nashville?

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In the last decade, Nashville has become one of the trendiest places to visit while traveling in the United States . The music industry isn’t the only player in town these days, as Nashville is now home to substantial tech, automotive, health care, and tourism industries as well.

This new boom has made Nashville one of the fastest-growing cities in the country. Add that to the city’s awesome sport and culinary scenes, and you have yourself one of the best places to visit in the US . Get ready to set your taste buds ablaze with some Nashville hot chicken before you cool down with a beer at a hockey game.

And yes, with so many musicians and live music venues in town, it should come as no surprise that Nashville is a city that likes to get down . Whether you’re “honky-tonking” up Broadway, sampling a flight in a craft brewery, or slamming down whiskey drinks in a dive bar in East Nashville, you’re bound to have a good time in Music City.

What are the Major Attractions in Nashville?

There are a TON of places to visit in Nashville that will surely keep you entertained for days. With some of the best entertainment in the country, insane street art, and tantalizing food, Nashville is one of the top spots for a quick getaway.

While I always recommend getting off the beaten path, here are a few Nashville tourist attractions that you just can’t miss. They’re famous for a reason, right?

• Country Music Hall of Fame
• Centennial Park and Parthenon
• The Grand Ole Opry
• Hattie B’s

How Long to Spend in Nashville?

Nashville is the perfect place for a short and sweet getaway. 3 days is an ideal amount of time to stay in Nashville , though you can make it 5 if you’d like to spend more time on daytime attractions, catch a game, or just have another Honky Tonks type of night.

What makes Nashville stand out from other US cities is that a lot of its most famous attractions are close together, and the city actually has affordable public transit.

This means you can pack a LOT into 3 days in this Southern city, and even more into 5. A week might be too much unless you’re a major music fan that is!

With 3 days in Nashville, you can cover some serious ground. That’s just enough time to hit a lot of Music City’s highlights during the day and then rock out and party down at night.

Here’s a short and sweet Nashville travel itinerary to help you make the most of your trip.

Day 1 in Nashville: A Very Tennessee Day

On day 1 of your Nashville adventure, check into your accommodation and then head over to the Tennessee State Capitol.

While you’re over here, you might as well check out the Tennessee State Museum . To get there, just walk from the Capitol through the park.

Just across the street from the museum is an area known as Germantown . It’s the perfect place to take a break and get your quick caffeine fix at one of the many coffee shops.

Alright, kids, now that you’ve got some quality coffee in you, it’s back to business. It’s your first night in Nashville, which means it’s time to set your taste buds on fire with some Nashville hot chicken.

I’m not going to proclaim to be a chicken expert, but I do know that Hattie B’s is a top-notch choice for the fiery fowl.

Warning: even the medium is fucking hot . Unless you want to spend the next two days on the toilet, I wouldn’t recommend going any levels above that for your first time!

You won’t be the only person wanting some hot chicken on a Friday night, so expect to wait a while. I suggest putting your order in and then heading next door to the nearby Broadway Brewhouse to try their famous Bushwackers – a delicious frozen drink that’s kind of like a Mudslide, but way better.

With some hot chicken and a Bushwacker or two in you, I’d say you’re ready to party NashVegas style. It’s kind of a tourist zoo and not exactly my cup of tea, but I’m still going to point you in the direction of Broadway for your first night out on the town. Go get liquored up, ride mechanical bulls, and dance on tables.

You won’t be the only one doing it!

Day 2 in Nashville: Exploring Downtown

On day 2 of this Nashville travel guide, it’s time to hit the streets and see what Downtown Nashville has to offer.

Start at Bridgestone Arena downtown, home to the Nashville Predators. While you’re there, you might as well drop into the visitor center which has a bunch of free maps and brochures that can help you plan your walking tour around the city.

It being Music City and all, you might also want to drop into Ernest Tubb Record Shop to pick up some new tunes to bring home.

First, check out the Country Music Hall of Fame . It’s worth it to pay the extra two bucks to get the audio guide in this huge museum.

Next up, be sure to take a stroll through Music Row towards the Music City Walk of Fame Park in the Nashville Music Garden . The star-studded pavement here honors the legends who have contributed to Nashville’s musical history.

…and now it’s time to eat!

Please skip out on the chain restaurants. You didn’t come to Nashville to eat a shitty $20 burger, people. For local eats, make your way to Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint , known for its pit-fired whole hog.

Next, head to Acme Feed & Seed . This multi-level restaurant/bar has a rooftop patio, creative cuisine, tasty cocktails, and live music. It’s the perfect place to grab dinner and drinks and start the night.

On your second night in Nashville, you won’t regret checking out the live music venues!

There’s no better place to feel the iconic vibes of Nashville than the Grand Ole Opry , a historic building that hosts a radio show/live music performance every weekend!

Day 3 in Nashville: Sunday Funday

Chances are you stayed out until 3 AM rocking out, so go ahead and sleep in on your last day in Nashville. If you’re looking for a Sunday brunch, well so are all of the other hungover people in Music City.

In my humble opinion, Pinewood Social is the ideal (and very Instagrammable – if you’re into that) place to indulge in a Nashville brunch.

Next, head over to Centennial Park . This large green oasis in the city has plenty of walking paths, gardens, and even a full-scale replica of the Parthenon, complete with a statue of Athena. It’s the reason for Nashville’s nickname, “The Athens of the South.”

Now it’s time to explore the Belmont Mansion . This historic mansion was built as a summer home for a very wealthy cotton heiress and her husband. Those interested in history, architecture, and art will enjoy taking a tour of this beautiful property.

For your last night in Nashville, it’s time to go out for some classic southern food. Your night shouldn’t be spent anywhere other than Arnold’s Country Kitchen , a long-time Nashville travel guide essential.

They’ve been serving up the classic “Meat & 3” in Music City for over 30 years. That is, you choose a meat dish and then three sides. What’s better than a solid dinner of soul food to wrap up a big weekend in Nashville?

If you’re not in too big of a food coma, the world is your oyster. Even on a Sunday night, people are out and about seeing live music and raging the honky tonk bars in Nashville. Start at the iconic Ryman Auditorium and progress towards bars like Bourbon Street Blues & Boogie and  3rd & Lindsley if you’ve got one more night on the town in ya’.

Spending More Time in Nashville?

If you have more time or flexibility in your schedule, it’s quite the experience to attend a unique-to-Nashville event.

If you’re a sports fan, you may want to check and see if either the Nashville Sounds (minor league baseball) or Predators (NHL) have a home game.

The Sounds play between April and September and have home games very regularly, while the Preds are the opposite, with games between September and April. Chances are one of them will be home while you’re in town.

Nashville also has a pro football team – the Tennessee Titans – but they only have eight home games a year and they’re usually on Sundays. If they happen to be in town on the same weekend as you, I recommend going to the stadium to at least check out the tailgate .

Titan fans sure know how to party, so you’ll have a good time even if you don’t buy a ticket for the game!

Between May and October, you can also catch a show at the awesome Ascend Amphitheatre . It’s one of my favorite outdoor music venues in the US.

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Nashville is one of the best places to visit in the US, and there’s a whole lot to do here! The southern city is bursting with tourist attractions, and historical sites too.

To help you make the most out of your trip, here are the absolute best things to do in Nashville .

1. Indulge in the nightlife

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – Nashville knows how to party. The city is full of awesome breweries, dive bars, cocktail lounges, speakeasies, honky tonk bars – you name it, Nashville’s got it.

It’s super touristy, but doing the honky-tonk bar crawl up Broadway can be a lot of fun. After several whiskey drinks, you just might want to get up and dance on the bar at Coyote Ugly . Go ahead, I won’t judge.

2. Hear live music

Without a doubt, the best thing to do in Nashville TN is to get out there in the live music venues. I mean, the place is called Music City for a reason! No matter what night of the week it is, you can find plenty of shows going on in Nashville.

Nashville venues come in all shapes and sizes and you can find live sounds from just about every music genre under the sun. Check the calendar for upcoming concerts and plan your trip around seeing shows.

3. Learn about country music’s history

It’s not all about country music in Nashville these days, but there’s no denying its importance in the city’s history and culture.

You’ve got plenty of options to learn all about this famous genre of music, including the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Johnny Cash Museum . Surely, no Nashville travel itinerary is complete without immersing yourself in tragic country ballads?

4. Take a walking tour

The best way to get to know a new city is on a walking tour. Nashville is a great city to explore on foot, so lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and check out the highlights of Music City.

You can find self-guided tours which are definitely worthwhile. But I personally took the tour with GetYourGuide and it was awesome.

5. Visit the Tennessee State Capitol and Museum

Seeing as how you’re in the capital city and all, you might as well learn a bit about Tennessee when you travel to Nashville. Head to the Tennessee State Capitol building first, and then check out the Tennessee State Museum in its nice new home.

Best of all, both are absolutely free! Great for those trying to visit Nashville on the cheap.

6. Watch a show at the Grand Ole Opry

One quintessential Nashville attraction that you just have to visit is the Grand Ole Opry . It’s been called the “home of American music” and is one of the most popular things to do in Nashville. This is the oldest continuous radio program in the US, dating all the way back to 1925.

You have several options for visiting the Grand Ole Opry. There are shows every Friday and Saturday night, as well as Tuesday nights from March to December. They also run a variety of tours if you want to learn more and get backstage.

7. Eat hot chicken!

When in Nashville, one must eat Nashville hot chicken. There’s a lot of delicious food in the city, but this is definitely Nashville’s signature dish. If you want to sample the best food that Nashville has to offer, consider embarking on a Nashville food tour to find the best hot chicken in town!

Some of the best places for Nashville hot chicken include Hattie B’s and Prince’s . A word of warning – even the medium flavor will light you up. Unless you’re a masochist, I would advise against ordering above that.

8. See a game

If you’re a sports fan, you should definitely add seeing a game to your list of things to do in Nashville. The city is home to two different professional sports teams – the Nashville Predators (NHL) and the Tennessee Titans (NFL). People are passionate about their sports and the games are a lot of fun to attend.

In addition to the pro teams, you can also watch the Nashville Sounds (minor league baseball) or check out some of the nearby college teams.

9. Visit the Hermitage

History buffs will want to check out the Hermitage , which is the former home of Andrew Jackson. The 7th President of the United States retired here after his time in office and actually died here in 1845. Take a tour of his mansion and learn all about the “People’s President.”

10. Get outdoors

If the weather is nice, you should definitely spend some time outdoors when you travel to Nashville. The city is home to over 100 parks, so it’s not hard to find a green space to enjoy.

One of the best choices for getting outdoors in Nashville is Centennial Park . This large city park is home to a replica of the Parthenon, so you can experience a little bit of Greece in Middle Tennessee!

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Nashville isn’t a huge city, so you don’t have to spend as much time thinking about cheap accommodation as you would in larger cities. Where you stay will mostly depend on your budget and whether you have a car.

If you’re hoping to visit Nashville on a budget, then you’ll probably want to book a dorm bed in one of the good hostels in Nashville . One is Downtown and the other is in Midtown . They’re both run by the same crew and have solid reviews from other backpackers.

Staying in either hostel is affordable and much more fun than staying in some dingy motel room on the outskirts of town. There are also some awesome Nashville cabins or treehouses on offer as well to light up your adventure.

While you can find private rooms for the same price as a dorm bed, you’ll waste a lot of time and money traveling to and from the city center. Best to stick with the hostels if you’re traveling solo.

Nashville Downtown Hostel  is located on the Cumberland River right in the heart of Downtown Nashville. This hostel is definitely your best option!

They have space for 300 guests, so it’s a great place to meet people. This hostel includes chill-out areas, pool and foosball tables, instruments you can jam on (this is Music City, after all), a fully stocked kitchen, and laundry services.

The Best Places to Stay in Nashville

Wondering where to book your stay in Nashville? Here are the best neighborhoods in the city!

SoBro – or South of Broadway – is set in Nashville’s City Centre. A short walk from downtown and the state capitol building, SoBro is a neighbourhood famed for its honky tonks and neon lights, its lively bars and exciting sights.

Downtown Nashville is a neighbourhood located at the heart, soul and centre of the city. A hub for entertainment and excitement, downtown is a neighbourhood brimming with music venues, eateries, arts and cultural, and historic landmarks.

Located west of the city center is the bustling Midtown neighbourhood. Home to Vanderbilt University and a thriving student population, Midtown is known for hosting some of the most exciting and fun nightlife in the city.

Nestled between downtown and Midtown is The Gulch. Far and away the coolest neighbourhood in the city, The Gulch is a LEED-certified neighbourhood with a rich industrial history.

Music Valley

Well outside the city centre is Music Valley. A charming and historic neighbourhood in East Nashville, Music Valey is known for its outstanding entertainment, cultural and historic activities, unique shopping and outdoor adventures.

Budget Accommodation Hacks

Sorry, guys, but I don’t have much for you here. There are only two hostels in Nashville and they’re both run by the same people. If you’re a backpacker looking to visit Music City on a budget and meet people, your best bet is definitely booking one of these places.

That being said, it’s always worth it to sign up for Couchsurfing and check out the scene. You might find a place to crash, and if not you might still be able to link up with some cool locals who will take you out.

If you can’t find a CS host and you’re not into sleeping in a dorm room, take a look at Nashville Airbnbs . There are plenty of people renting out their spare rooms or even their pull-out couch for a reasonable rate.

To try something completely different, you can also check out Nashville’s VRBO scene , which is a top Airbnb competitor if you’re not in the know.

When it comes to American cities, Nashville offers a great bang for your buck. It’s much easier to do Nashville on the cheap than in other American cities like San Francisco or Chicago.

The city has a couple of options for backpacker accommodations, cheap public transportation, and plenty of free activities you can take advantage of.

It’s possible to get by in Nashville with a daily budget of just $50-60 , but in order to do that, you need to find a friend’s couch or a host on Couchsurfing. This would also limit what you can see and do in the city, as you wouldn’t really be able to do much in terms of sightseeing.

A more realistic estimate for a Nashville budget is $90-$200 a day. With this budget, you can book a dorm bed in a hostel or an apartment with some friends, pay for one big-ticket item each day, and go big on at least one of your nights out. After all, you didn’t come all the way to Music City to sit around your room!

Below I have provided a closer look at what you can expect to pay for things when you travel to Nashville!

A Daily Budget in Nashville

While Nashville isn’t the most expensive city in the US, it’s also not the cheapest. Here’s what you can expect to spend depending on your travel style:

A Few Free Things to Do in Nashville

This wouldn’t be the best Nashville travel guide if I didn’t tell you about some of the best free things to do in the southern city. Broke Backpackers everywhere will be happy to learn that there are quite a few things you can do that cost absolutely nothing in Music City!

• TN Capitol and Museum : As I mentioned above, the Tennessee State Capitol building and museum are both totally free to visit. Visiting both will take up half a day, so you can then take your daily budget and blow it all on hot chicken and booze.
• Take a free walking tour : Explore Music City with a local guide on one of the awesome free walking tours . Of course, you should remember that guides work for tips, so don’t be a total cheapass!
• Local parks : A walk in the park is beneficial in so many ways. Breathe some fresh air, get some exercise, and save your cash!
• Check out the street art : One of my favorite things that’s always changing too!
• Free concerts : Not all concerts in Nashville have a huge cover charge. It’s easy to find live music for free, especially during the week. Of course, you should always buy drinks and tip your bartenders/the band, but at least you got in the door for free!

Nashville on a Budget – Top Travel Tips and Tricks

While Nashville is a pretty affordable city compared to other cities in the US, it’s still easy to burn through your money.

Here are some travel tips for visiting Nashville on a budget:

• Stay in a hostel:  Thanks to the development of Nashville as a major tourist destination, the city is now home to a few backpacker-friendly hostels. Skip out on the bland chain hotels and save a ton of money by booking a dorm bed instead. Even Nashville’s vacation rentals are better than the chain hotels.
• Hop on the bus, Gus:  Sure, ride-sharing companies are operating in Nashville, but you can save more money for music and booze by riding the bus instead. Since a day pass only costs $3.25, it’s great for your budget.
• Take advantage of free activities:  Give yourself a walking tour of downtown, hang out in the city’s beautiful parks, and even catch some free concerts. You can keep yourself entertained without emptying your wallet in Nashville.
• Be a Happy Hour Hero: Going out to an after-hours party is fun, but also expensive. Find the best Happy Hour deals to ensure you get a buzz on without a massive tab.

Why You Should Travel to Nashville with a Water Bottle

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Nashville is a great destination year-round, but the best time to visit Nashville is between April and October . While it can get pretty hot and muggy in the middle of the summer, there’s a lot going on in the city. Plus, you can always cool down indoors at an air-conditioned place.

Winter isn’t terribly cold in Nashville, but it’s not exactly pleasant enough to spend a lot of time outside. That being said, the holiday season is quite festive in Music City. Christmas and New Year’s are both pretty fun times to be in town.

What to Pack for Nashville

Packing for your Nashville trip will definitely be seasonal. While its weather patterns aren’t as extreme as NYC for example, you’re going to want to pay attention to the forecast before heading out. But here are some essentials you can’t forget, regardless of the season!

Osprey Daylite Plus

Any city slicker needs a SLICK daypack. In general, you can never go wrong with an Osprey pack, but with its array of awesome organisation, durable materials, and a comfy build, the Daylite Plus will make your urban jaunts buttery smooth.

Grayl Geopress Filtered Bottle

Save $$$, save the planet, and save yourself the headache (or tummy ache). Instead of sticking to bottled plastic, buy a Grayl Geopress, drink water no matter the source, and be happy knowing the turtles and fishies thank you (and so do we!). 🙂

OCLU Action Camera

Wait, it’s cheaper than a GoPro and… better than a GoPro? The OCLU action cam is the cam for budget backpackers that want to immortalise all their wildest adventures – including that time you dropped it off a Himalayan mountain – WITHOUT breaking the bank.

Solgaard Solarbank

Resourceful travellers know how to find power outlets anywhere on the road; smart travellers just pack a solar power bank instead. With 4-5 phone cycles per charge and the ability to top up literally anywhere the sun is shining, there’s no reason to ever get lost again!

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

ALL travellers need a headtorch – no exceptions! Even in the hostel dorm, this beauty can save you in a real pinch. If you haven’t got in on the headtorch game, DO. I promise you: you’ll never look back. Or at least if you do, you’ll be able to see what you’re looking at.

Safety in the US is questionable in general. But Nashville is one of the safest big cities in the country. You don’t need to be nearly as concerned when out and about here as you would be in places like my hometown of Detroit or in bigger cities like LA.

With the rapid development and resulting gentrification, many areas that were once thought of as dangerous are now totally fine.

Your biggest concern should be petty crimes, like pick-pocketing, or getting too drunk and losing your shit at a bar.

One thing I will mention is that people are notoriously bad drivers in Nashville, so be careful if you rent a car. The crash rate in Nashville was ten times higher than the population growth last year. So yeah, it’s probably best to stay off the road there.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Nashville

We’ve already talked about it, but the wild side of Nashville definitely deserves a bit more attention.

Unlike visiting Miami , which will likely involve other substances, Nashville is specifically known for its booze scenes, and of those there are many.

Cannabis, on the other hand, is NOT legal anywhere in Tennessee. Though, like anywhere in the US, it can be found. Don’t expect great quality though, unless you happen to get lucky with your connection. So while Nashville is a great place to drink, it might be the wrong vibe to try and dabble in a bit of cheeky drug tourism .

Alcohol and partying go hand in hand in Nashville, I mean, it is the home of the honky tonks so that shouldn’t be surprising. We’ve already delved into the top places to get down in Music City, but what is essential to mention is this: being responsible means you have a greater chance of a safe travel .

Know your limits, help others out if you can, and do be cautious if you plan to get into some love and sex on the road , something quite likely after a night on the town.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Nashville

Traveling without insurance in the USA is risky. Especially with the infamous (and ridiculous) for-profit health system. So do consider getting good travel insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have used World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Most travelers will probably arrive at Nashville International Airport (BNA). You can find direct flights to Nashville from several cities across the US. For international destinations, you can fly to and from places like London, Toronto, and Cancun.

The airport is about a 15-20 minute drive from the city center. If you’re balling on a budget, you can catch a bus for just $1.70. Just make sure you have the cash to pay your fare.

You could also catch a bus to/from Nashville using Greyhound or Megabus. But a word of warning – riding the Greyhound in Tennessee is a very, shall we say, interesting experience.

If you book the Megabus early, you can score super cheap fares to or from a few other major cities like Chicago or Atlanta. I much prefer Megabus, as it tends to cater to students and travelers versus crackheads.

Getting Around Nashville

Nashville isn’t exactly killing it in the public transportation department. There are several bus routes running, but these might not be of much use to you as a traveler.

Google Maps is one of the best travel apps to use in Nashville. It knows the bus routes, so be sure to check that to see if you can catch one. It costs $1.70 per ride or $3.25 for a day pass .

You can pretty much walk everywhere downtown. Nashville is a pretty compact city, so you don’t need to cover a ton of ground to see the sights. There are a few places in town where you can rent bikes if you’d like to cycle instead.

Rideshare apps are super popular in Nashville. Make sure you download Uber and Lyft on your phone to make it easy to catch a quick ride when you need one.

Working & Volunteering in Nashville

If you’re a US citizen–or have other documents to work in the US–you can definitely find a job in Nashville. Otherwise, working on a US tourist visa is a surefire way to get banned from the country.

Remote work is possible though, as practically any accommodation and plenty of cafes have Wifi. Albeit it won’t be the cheapest location to live the digital nomad lifestyle .

On the other hand, volunteering opportunities definitely exist in Nashville if you know where to look. I’d recommend using a trusted platform, especially in the US with its strict work laws. The Broke Backpacker recommends Worldpackers as one of the easy-to-use and reputable volunteer platforms .

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

In a city full of musicians, it should come as no surprise that there are countless places to wet your whistle. In addition to the infamous honky tonks, Nashville has craft breweries, speakeasies, cocktail lounges, dive bars, and everything in between.

Much of the nightlife in Nashville is centered around Broadway . This street is full of said honky tonk bars and it draws quite the crowd, especially from Thursday-Saturday. Bar hopping along Broadway is a favorite pastime of tourists who visit Nashville; locals, not so much.

For a more local scene, you can head out in areas like East Nashville , The Gulch , or Midtown .

• Station Inn
• 3rd and Lindsley
• Grimey’s
• Never Never

When I lived just down the road in Murfreesboro, I was kind of down and out, to be honest (thanks a lot, economic crisis!) The only saving grace of my time spent there was being able to go out in Nashville on the weekends with a bunch of awesome people to see music.

Since I moved out of the city, I still miss Nashville’s live music scene. This place deserves its nickname – it has one of the best music scenes in the world. Even if all you do in Nashville is stay out until 3 AM every night partying and seeing music, it will be a successful trip.

Dining in Nashville

When it comes to eating out in Nashville, you’ve got to go for the trifecta of Nashville hot chicken, BBQ, and Southern soul food. Here are recommendations for all three – Hattie B’s, Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint, and Arnold’s Country Kitchen.

There are tons of other restaurants in Nashville cooking up all kinds of cuisine if you need to try something else. Just please don’t come all the way here and eat shitty fast food or in garbage chain restaurants.

When in doubt, ask a local where they like to go. Here are some of my favorite recommendations from locals themselves. A Nashville food tour is a sure-fire way to shock your tastebuds.

Best Restaurants and Cheap Eats in Nashville

Nashville is chock full of delicious food, but not all of it is budget-friendly. Here are some of the best things to eat in Nashville, broke backpacker style:

• 5 Points Pizza – A classic Nashville pizza joint, 5 Points sells slices the size of your head for $3.75. While not quite as cheap as New York, this is the best pie in Music City and is an ideal quick lunch option.
• Dino’s – Nashville’s oldest dive bar has certainly made a name for itself. It’s also real backpacker friendly: you can get what’s rated as one of the best burgers in the US, fries and even a beer for a total of $10 or less.
• Taqueria del Sol – This legendary fusion restaurant combines Southern soul food flavors with traditional Mexican cuisine. Think brisket-filled tacos and the use of turnip greens. And you can grab two for less than $10!
• Robert’s Western World – You can’t have a list of cheap eats in Nashville without including Robert’s Western World. The famous Broadway eatery is open until 3AM daily and everything on it’s weekday menu is $10 or less!
• Brown’s Diner – A local favorite since 1927, Brown’s might be the most “historical” place to eat in Nashville on a budget. You can fill up on burgers and hushpuppies for $5 here.
• VN Pho & Deli – This delicious cash-only establishes brings the delicious flavors of Vietnam to Music City. Savor authentic banh mi and their massive bowls of pho at very reasonable prices considering the sizes and quality!

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Getting Off the Beaten Track in Nashville

Most tourists who travel to Nashville barely get out of downtown. To be honest, there’s more than enough to do there to keep you busy for a couple of days.

You really don’t need to go anywhere else, but here are some awesome off-the-beaten-track travel options for those looking to experience a more local side of Nashville:

• Spend time in East Nashville : Those looking for a more laid-back, artsy vibe can head across the Cumberland River from downtown to check out the Five Points neighborhood of East Nashville. Stroll around here for a few hours to take in the street art, peruse the quirky shops, or grab a drink in one of the many cool bars where you’ll find far more locals than drunk bachelorette parties.
• Hop on a bike : The extensive park system in Nashville is mostly all connected via a greenway, so you can hop on a bike downtown and ride out to peaceful green spaces and art galleries on the outskirts of town.
• Radnor Lake State Park : If you’ve got a car or don’t mind the hour-ish bike ride, Radnor Lake is a great place to escape the touristy downtown scene. In addition to the small and scenic lake, this park boasts several different hiking trails.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Is Nashville safe?

Yes! Nashville is safe for tourists, though you should always follow general safety rules, and be aware of your belongings while out bar hopping the honky tonks.

What is the best part of Nashville to stay in?

The coolest places to stay in Nashville are SoBro (South Broadway), Downtown, and The Gulch. They’re safe and full of good vibes!

What should I avoid in Nashville?

Always avoid flashing your valuables around while hitting crowded bars in Nashville. I would steer clear of the Shepherds Hill neighborhood on the outskirts of town too.

What is Nashville best known for?

Nashville is undoubtedly best known for country music, epic live music venues, and honky tonk bars. Oh and Nashville hot chicken!

What to eat and drink in Nashville?

Nashville means southern comfort food! You can’t visit Nashville without sampling its iconic Nashville hot chicken and Bushwacker alcoholic drinks. Don’t skip the opportunity to visit Arnold’s Country Kitchen either.

Music City is absolutely guaranteed to be a good time. It’s the home of country music and has a vibe that’s truly unlike any other place in the United States. There’s a reason why Nashville is often the first choice of bachelorette parties–few places in the world make live tunes and liquor so accessible.

But Nashville isn’t just Broadway. It’s filled with some epic history, delicious food, and some damn fine scenery, too. So make sure you appreciate all of that on your Nashville trip.

Yes–rock out and honky tonk those nights away along one of the world’s most iconic bar crawls. Just make sure you get to see the other side of Nashville too!

The soul of the city and its colorful musical history should also be as equally admired as its bars. Spend at least one day in the area outdoors, whether it be at one of its historical sites or a park.

With jolly Southern city vibes, some of the best chicken in the US, and music whenever you want it, Nashville is bound to make an impression.

So grab your guitar and get on going–Music city awaits!

Updated: February 2022 by Samantha Shea from Intentional Detours

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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We love what Nashville offers as far as the outdoor scenery and lifestyle. Not to mention the night life and country music is the best in the world! We are fortunate enough to work and live in this beautiful state by building barndominium homes for local residents.

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* Though the devastation left behind by a March 2020 tornado lingers in parts of Nashville, much of the city is still open for business. AFAR will continue to update the destination guide over the coming months to include the new openings and renovations. * While the charms of Lower Broadway in downtown Nashville may beckon visitors with live music and honky tonks lit by neon moons, venture beyond this flashy tourist area to explore Nashville’s eclectic neighborhoods. From bohemian East Nashville, to the posh mansions of Belle Meade, to a lively college culture in Hillsboro Village, each pocket offers a local flavor all its own. Cultural and historical attractions are spread out over hundreds of square miles, with plenty of open space in over 100 city parks in Davidson County and several Tennessee state parks worth a day trip.

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Photo By Chad Robertson/Shutterstock

Can’t miss things to do in Nashville

Catch a show at historic venues like the landmark Ryman Auditorium; as the original home of the Grand Ole Opry and the birthplace of bluegrass, it is known as the “Mother Church of Country Music.” Alternatively, enjoy a more intimate performance at the tiny Bluebird Cafe. Gain a deeper understanding of music’s roots across a variety of genres at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. See the visual side of music at Hatch Show Print, a letterpress for show posters for over 130 years, or tour United Record Pressing, one of only a dozen remaining companies that press vinyl records. Beyond the music world, the Hermitage estate of Andrew Jackson and the Belle Meade Mansion will take you further back in time to Nashville before the Civil War.

Food and drink to try in Nashville

Nashville loves celebrating the juxtaposition of high and low culture, especially at the table. Ask a local where to eat, and you might get a recommendation for the daily tasting menu at The Catbird Seat in the same breath as for Arnold’s Country Kitchen, a classic Nashville diner. Regardless of price point, the best restaurants draw from the area’s agrarian roots, whether it’s the modern peasant cuisine of Rolf and Daughters, the menu of Italian inflected with Southern American at City House, or the daily plate lunches at Husk. Don’t miss Nashville’s culinary claim to fame, cayenne-fried hot chicken, at the joints that made it famous, like Prince’s Hot Chicken; more modern interpretations can be sampled at Hattie B’s.

Culture in Nashville

Nashville has big-city fun but with small-town heart. Locals have a reputation for their traditional Southern hospitality, even as the city grows by leaps and bounds. While new restaurants and condo developments seem to spring up daily, the city keeps a casual and friendly vibe. The music business has been drawing creative types for decades, but not just to perform. Designers, entrepreneurs, engineers, and writers have entered the mix, while chefs, artisans, immigrant business owners, and artists enhance a culture that supports and celebrates collaboration.

Nashville’s creative spirit has given life to a variety of local handcrafted products, making for many authentic souvenirs. Marathon Village, downtown, was once a factory for Marathon Motor Cars but now plays host to unique stores like Antique Archaeology, home base for TV’s American Pickers. Find treasures such as leather goods at Emil Erwin, handmade ties by Otis James, gourmet treats at The Bang Candy Company, sweets from the Goo Goo Dessert Bar, and Corsair Artisan Distillery’s craft spirits. Across town around 12th Avenue South, dress up in Imogene + Willie jeans and Savant Vintage clothing, listen in at Corner Music and Forks Drum Closet, and browse swank gifts at White’s Mercantile, owned by Hank Williams’ granddaughter Holly.

Practical Information

You’ll find all four seasons in the capital city of Tennessee, with hot summers and cold winters, making it best to plan visits for spring or fall. Buses can shuttle you around downtown, but a rental car is best to explore the city. Taxis are easy to find at the airport and downtown, and on-demand ride sharing and car services such as Lyft and Uber are also good modes of transport. Bikes can be rented from stations throughout the city with B-cycle and GreenBikes. Nashville has a population of over 600,000, with around 1.7 million in the greater metropolitan Middle Tennessee area.

Guide Editor

Jennifer Justus Nashville Local Expert

Nashville travel guide

Nashville tourism | nashville guide, you're going to love nashville.

The home of country music, Nashville, Tennessee is the place to come if you want to hear live music every night of the week. Head to atmospheric honky tonks like Robert’s Western, blues bars like Bourbon Street Blues & Boogie Bar, or to the Grand Ole Opry itself, where legends like Merle Haggard and Patsy Cline once played.

The food is great too. Dine on southern fried chicken at Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, try a slug of bourbon at Whiskey Kitchen, or explore the city’s growing craft beer scene at Craft Brewed.

Head to beautiful plantations like the Hermitage for a taste of antebellum life, stroll around Centennial Park with its replica of the Parthenon, or take the kids to Nashville Zoo at Grassmere.

Whether you want a music-packed trip, a family vacation, or a week of fine dining, Nashville delivers.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Nashville

1. country music.

The Grand Ole Opry is country music’s most important venue, and it’s still a wonderful place to catch the latest acts. But there are smaller bars too totake in great country music, like Robert’s Western World, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, Legend’s Corner, and Layla’s

Local specialties include smoking hot chicken (try the menu at Prince's Hot Chicken Shack), meat and three (Arnold’s Country Kitchen is the place to go), andbiscuits, both in savory and sweet varieties.

You can visit elegant pre-Civil War plantations like the Hermitage, which was the home of President Andrew Jackson. Head to the Belle Meade Plantation forthe best museum of southern history and tours that include free wine tasting.

4. Festivals

Nashville isn’t all about the Opry and honky tonks. There are also plenty of outdoor festivals like the July 4th fireworks, June’s CMA Music Festival, andthe Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival in nearby Manchester.

While Elvis made his home in Memphis, he spent years in Nashville building his career. Visit RCA Studio B where he recorded 150 tracks or pick up copies ofElvis posters at Hatch Show Print.

What to do in Nashville

1. country music hall of fame and museum: explore the musical heritage.

Both country music fans and those new to the genre will have plenty to discover in the world-renowned Country Music Hall of Fame. Housing incredible artifacts and mementos from legends including Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash, the museum is a music lover's dream. Rotating exhibits take turns illuminating the lives and discographies of some of America's finest musicians. Meanwhile, the stunning Hall of Fame Rotunda honors those who've been granted membership into these hallowed halls.

2. Parthenon: It's All Greek in Tennessee

There's only one place in the world where you can visit the Parthenon - but if you can't make it to Athens, there's no need to worry. Nashville's got a full-scale replica. The massive structure houses an art museum in the middle of beautiful Centennial Park. A mighty statue of Athena graces the museum's heart. Meanwhile, summer brings performances of classic Greek plays to the front steps.

3. Grand Ole Opry: Visit the Home of American Music

For nearly 100 years, country music's finest have been bringing hundreds of fans into the Grand Ole Opry. Today, you can see living legends take the stage, or you can tour backstage yourself. Everyone from Garth Brooks to Carrie Underwood have listed the Grand Ole Opry as one of the finest performance venues in the world, so it's sure to be worth your while. The Opry hosts performance just about every other day, and it's worth checking to see what names are in town during your visit to Nashville.

4. Tennessee State Capitol: Take in the History

Designated as a National Historic Landmark, the State Capitol is a beautiful example of Greek Revival architecture. Unique in its design, the capitol is recognized by the American Society of Civil Engineers as a truly innovative piece of architecture. The grounds are graced by statues of famous Tennesseans including Presidents Andrew Jackson and Andrew Johnson. Guided tours are available for those looking to dig deep into the history of the state and the place.

5. Midtown / West End / Music Row: Stroll Down the Street Where Music Happens

Nashville's Midtown and Music Row are renowned for being some of the world's music hotspots. Walk down the street and you'll stroll past the places where famous artists like Chet Atkins and Roy Acuff recorded their hits. The quiet and quaint architecture of the place belies its rollicking underbelly -- nighttime brings life to bars and restaurants, many of which host everything from country to blues groups.

Activities & attractions in Nashville

Nature & Outdoor Activities

Other activities

Where to Eat in Nashville

For the best southern fried chicken in Nashville, head to Hattie B’s in Midtown. A broader southern soul food selection is available at Arnold’s CountryKitchen, Lockeland Table is a little more experimental (but still offers traditional American fare), while Bro’s Cajun Cuisine is an excellent seafoodrestaurant.

Most popular restaurants in Nashville

When to visit nashville.

The best time to visit Nashville is between May and July, when the temperatures are high, but not too hot, and many of the major music festivals take place.Winter is a cheaper time to visit and the honky tonks will still be buzzing, while early spring and fall are great times to enjoy the plantations withoutlarge crowds.

How to Get to Nashville

Flights to Nashville International Airport are the simplest way to visit Nashville. To get into town from the airport, take a shuttle bus provided by JarmonTransportation or pre-arrange a taxi or limo with one of the many companies present at the airport. Expect to pay around $30 for a taxi to downtowndestinations.

If you want to take the train, the nearest station is in Memphis, which is linked to New Orleans and Chicago via the City of New Orleans service.

I-40 passes through Nashville, linking the city with destinations to the east (like Philadelphia or New York) and the west (like Memphis). I-65 also passesthrough Nashville, connecting it to northern and southern destinations, so the city is fairly easy to reach by car.

The Greyhound stop is at 1030 Charlotte Ave and the company provides connections to most major American cities. Megabus also run services to Nashville fromChicago and regional cities like Knoxville, and their buses stop on Commerce St.

Airports near Nashville

Airlines serving nashville, where to stay in nashville.

Popular hotels include the Comfort Inn, the Courtyard Nashville, and the Holiday Inn, all of which provide comfortable, reliable accommodation at reasonableprices. For a more up-market vacation experience, The Hermitage Hotel is a gorgeous 19th-century hotel, while The Hutton Hotel, is a smaller boutique optionwith a focus on gourmet food and high-quality service. At the other end of the scale, Music City Hostel is a great place for backpackers to sleep.

Popular Districts

Opryland – As the name suggests, Opryland is clustered around the Grand Ole Opry. It’s also the best place to stay if you intend to shop thanks to Opry Mills, whereyou’ll find major retailers like H&M and Ralph Lauren. There are plenty of musical attractions in the area. Visit the Willie Nelson Museum, take in an Elvistribute act and round everything off with a southern feast at Nashville Palace.

Downtown – The business core of the city, Downtown hosts the city’s artistic institutions, including the Frist Center for the Visual Arts, while major touring actsusually find space for a concert at the Bridgestone Arena. Check out Broadway as well, home to the city’s best honky tonks, including Tootsie’s andLayla’s.

Midtown – Known for its restaurants, Midtown is a safe area that has plenty of hotels. Check out the seafood specialties at South Street Original Crab Shack and stayfor the rock and roll shows or go up-market with the gourmet Italian food at Giovanni Ristorante. Vanderbilt University is next door too, and it’s worthtaking a walk on campus to see its 19th century architecture and sculpture gardens.

Where to stay in popular areas of Nashville

Most booked hotels in nashville, how to get around nashville, public transportation.

Nashville MTA runs an efficient bus network that serves the whole city center. Basic fares are low at $1.70 for a single journey, and you can save money with$5.25 day passes. Buses tend to finish around 5 p.m., so taxis might be better if you go out in the evening.

Basic taxi fares are $3 for the pick-up, then $2 for every additional mile and $1 for each extra passenger. Uber is cheaper, with a base fare of $1 and then$0.93 per subsequent mile.

Major car rental agencies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis are present in the city. Expect to pay around $30 per day for a normal sized vehicle. Parkingcosts around $6 per hour in surface lots and over $10 in most garages, although many locations have cheaper rates after 5 p.m.

Best car rental deals in Nashville

4 Adults, 2 Bags

Intermediate

5 Adults, 3 Bags

The Cost of Living in Nashville

Shopping streets.

Opry Mills is a massive outlet mall filled with big names, including H&M, Coach, and Kate Spade. Gruhn Guitars on 8th Avenue is the place to look for musicalinstruments, while Imogen & Willie in 12South is a popular custom denim boutique. Green Hills is another district that’s full of high-end clothing stores,including Dillard’s and Macy’s.

Groceries and Other

Nashville isn’t an expensive city. 12 eggs cost around $2.40 while a bottle of wine is $14. The best places to shop for groceries are supermarkets likePublix, Kmart, Safeway, Wal-Mart, and H.G. Hill and there are also Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s outlets in the center of town.

A Nashville guide for those brought here by Beyoncé: Visit these Music City gems

B eyoncé's new album "Cowboy Carter" appears to be a reclamation of country music, and it's led to interest from fans who haven't tuned in to the genre before. Naturally, those listeners are considering trips to the heart of country music — Nashville.

As a new resident of the city, I ventured to some beloved places around town and talked to some local experts to create a simple guide meant to appeal to new fans. It features unique places in Music City, some of which have greatly influenced country music past and present.

Miranda Lambert's Casa Rosa

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This lively eatery and honky-tonk is considered the first female artist-inspired restaurant and bar on Lower Broadway. Inspired by chart-topping country music superstar Miranda Lambert, the Tex-Mex eatery highlights her career and reflects her Texas roots.

The establishment spans multiple floors with unique pink decor. On a Saturday afternoon, a live country band played while patrons dined. The singer's influence is evident in the menu and art displayed throughout the place.

Of course, the Beyhive has been buzzing with speculation about whether artists like Lambert or Dolly Parton will be featured in some capacity on the new album, which comes out March 29.

Daniel X Diamond 

Longtime Los Angeles-based stylists Daniel Musto and Lani Lupton eventually arrived in Music City and founded the Daniel X Diamond clothing line. The brand is known for its cowboy core staples, mainly statement pieces embellished with fringe and rhinestones.

The brand has been sourced to some of the most prominent artists in the music industry, including Gwen Stefani, Shania Twain and Carrie Underwood. Beyoncé's oldest daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, was spotted in a Daniel X Diamond jacket in the 2023 "Renaissance" film.

I stopped by on a Saturday afternoon to try on some of the bedazzled pieces and speak with Musto, who referred to his business with Lupton as "our Sasha Fierce." Of course, the hive knows this references Beyoncé's alter ego.

"I've been a fan of Beyoncé forever, [and] I'm so excited now I can tell Alexa to play Beyoncé and all different genres of music pop up," he said. "She did all the really cool house music, country, and obviously pop, R&B and hip-hop."

Musto said the Grammy-award-winning singer began wearing this clothing style with her "Renaissance" album.

"She was introducing country-western through fashion only," he said. "If you think about it, she used fashion to tease music."

And while he is excited about Queen Bey's foray into country music and fashion, he acknowledged the lifestyle's roots.

"I just want to talk about Black culture in general, because that's where country music began," he said. "We always have to nod our cowboy hats to those who started something that's turned into this multibillion dollar business. And I think it's magical the woman at the top of the music industry is going back to her roots of Houston."

The Grand Ole Opry House

Dubbed the home of country music, the Grand Ole Opry has become a cultural landmark. Initially founded in 1925 by George D. Hay as a one-hour live radio show on WSM 650 AM, the Opry is the longest running radio broadcast in the U.S. Since 1974, the radio show has been housed in the Grand Ole Opry House — a 4,400-seat Opryland area venue that hosts several shows each week featuring some of country music's biggest names and rising stars. Artists including Dolly Parton, Darius Rucker, Johnny Cash, Garth Brooks, Loretta Lynn, Reba McEntire and Carrie Underwood have graced the stage.

The Opry holds several types of venue tours daily throughout the year. This month, it offered a Women of Country tour. Guests were greeted with mimosas before they journeyed through the halls where country music legends changed backstage and performed in front of thousands. This tour was a deep dive into all the women who have paved the way in the industry. Of course, guests didn't leave without stepping on the famous circle in the floor of the stage.

Slim & Husky's Pizza Beeria

Slim & Husky's is a Black-owned pizza shop. One location of the Nashville-area chain is located in the city's heart at the Fifth + Broadway complex. Amid the country music scene, the eatery boasts a love for hip-hop and R&B culture — not unlike Beyoncé.

"It's Music City, so we wanted to make sure we represent all music genres in Nashville," said co-founder Derrick "Mo" Moore. "R&B, hip-hop and soul happen to be [genres] we're attracted to, as well as country music."

Co-founder Clint Gray said it was important to open the location downtown.

"There's so many different Black country artists here in Nashville, and to have Beyoncé put a light onto country music from an African-American standpoint, just give them a big opportunity to grow, kind of shift that genre, you know, back to its roots," he said.

House of Adora

The House of Adora , or the "pink house," is a not-so-hidden gem East Nashville tucked into a residential neighborhood. Social media Beverly Griffith painted her home in 2021. Since then, it has become a Music City staple and an Instagram-worthy attraction.

Griffith rents out her home for photoshoots, video shoots and everything in between. The pink house has been a go-to location for Nashville-favored country and pop singers like Maren Morris, Kacey Musgraves and Yola.

Station Inn 

The Station Inn is a small but mighty concert venue located near Nashville's Music Row and notable recording studios. The establishment has been deemed America's bluegrass hub. Bluegrass is a particular style of country music influenced by jazz and blues. It is often characterized by banjo and guitar playing coupled with high-pitched vocals.

Beyoncé's hit track "Texas Hold' Em" features MacArthur Fellow and Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Rhiannon Giddens on the banjo and viola. Before starting her solo career, Giddens founded and played in the country, blues and old-time music band the "Carolina Chocolate Drops." The group became the first Black string band to play the Grand Ole Opry. She has dedicated her career to educating the nation about the banjo and its roots in Black culture before becoming a predominantly white instrument.

Giddens also educated folks about the history of bluegrass, not solely a descendant of Scottish and Irish music but incorporating banjo and fiddle players from Africa, as well.

Marcus Dowling contributed to this story.

Follow Caché McClay, the USA TODAY Network's Beyoncé Knowles-Carter reporter, on  Instagram ,  TikTok  and  X  as @cachemcclay .

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: A Nashville guide for those brought here by Beyoncé: Visit these Music City gems