Nashville isn't just a city—it's a feeling. The moment you step onto Broadway and hear live music pouring from every doorway, you understand why they call it Music City. But Nashville is so much more than honky-tonks and country songs. It's a place where Southern hospitality meets creative energy, where historic venues stand alongside trendy rooftop bars, and where you can eat the best hot chicken of your life at 2 AM.
Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or planning a longer stay, Nashville delivers experiences you won't find anywhere else. From the legendary Grand Ole Opry to hidden speakeasies in East Nashville, from world-class museums to Instagram-worthy murals, this city knows how to show visitors a good time.
This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Nashville in 2025. We'll walk you through the must-see attractions, share insider tips locals actually use, and help you plan the perfect itinerary. Use our Driving Calculator to plan your route if you're road-tripping to Music City.
Nashville at a Glance
- ♪ Home to 180+ live music venues
- 🍗 Birthplace of Nashville hot chicken
- 🎸 More than 60 recording studios
- 🌆 Walkable downtown with free entertainment
- 🎭 Year-round festivals and events
Why Visit Nashville?
Nashville has evolved from a country music hub into one of America's most dynamic cities. While music remains the heartbeat, the city now offers world-class dining, innovative cocktail bars, thriving arts scenes, and neighborhoods each with their own distinct personality.
Music History That Lives and Breathes
This isn't a city where music history sits behind glass in museums. In Nashville, history is alive. You can stand on the same stage where Johnny Cash performed, record in studios where legends made their hits, and hear tomorrow's stars playing in dive bars tonight. The music scene here isn't preserved—it's evolving every single night.
Southern Food Scene Beyond Compare
Nashville's food culture goes way beyond hot chicken (though you absolutely must try it). The city blends traditional Southern cooking with innovative culinary creativity. You'll find James Beard Award-winning chefs, authentic meat-and-three diners, craft breweries, and food trucks serving everything from Korean BBQ tacos to gourmet biscuits.
Walkable Downtown with Endless Entertainment
Unlike many American cities, Nashville's downtown is genuinely walkable and alive at all hours. Broadway buzzes with energy from morning coffee to late-night honky-tonking. You can easily spend entire days exploring on foot, discovering new venues, shops, and experiences around every corner.
Perfect for Every Type of Traveler
Solo travelers find welcoming bar scenes and easy conversation. Couples discover romantic rooftop dinners and intimate music venues. Families enjoy parks, museums, and kid-friendly attractions. Groups of friends create legendary bachelor/bachelorette party memories. Nashville genuinely works for everyone.
Top Things to Do in Nashville
These are the experiences that define Nashville. Some are famous for good reason, others are local favorites that tourists often miss. All of them deserve a spot on your itinerary.
Broadway & Honky Tonk Highway
What it is: The beating heart of Nashville's nightlife, Broadway is a four-block stretch of neon-lit honky-tonks where live music plays from 10 AM until 3 AM, seven days a week. No cover charges, just tip the bands.
Why it's special: Where else can you bar-hop to live music all day without paying a cover? Each venue has its own vibe—Tootsie's Orchid Lounge is legendary, Robert's Western World serves the best fried bologna sandwich you'll ever eat, and Layla's Bluegrass Inn keeps traditional sounds alive.
Insider tip: Go during the day (11 AM - 3 PM) for a more relaxed experience with equally talented musicians. The crowds are smaller, conversation is easier, and you can actually see the historic interiors. Save nighttime for when you want the full party atmosphere.
Best time: Weekday afternoons for chill vibes, Friday/Saturday nights for the full experience. Avoid major holiday weekends unless you love massive crowds.
The Grand Ole Opry
What it is: The show that made country music famous, broadcasting live since 1925. This isn't just a concert—it's a living piece of American music history where legends are made and honored.
Why it's special: You might see established stars, rising talents, and bluegrass legends all on the same bill. The format hasn't changed much in 100 years, and that's exactly the point. This is authentic Nashville, not a tourist show.
Insider tip: Book tickets well in advance—shows sell out weeks ahead. Take the backstage tour during the day to see the dressing rooms and stand in the famous circle where countless legends have performed. The tour guides are often musicians themselves with incredible stories.
Best time: Tuesday and Friday shows tend to have the most star power. Saturday nights are classic but crowded.
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
What it is: A world-class museum chronicling country music's evolution from Appalachian folk songs to modern pop-country. The collection includes Elvis's gold Cadillac, handwritten lyrics from legends, and interactive exhibits.
Why it's special: Even if you're not a country music fan, this museum tells the story of American culture through music. The exhibits are beautifully curated, the artifacts are genuine treasures, and you'll leave with a deeper appreciation for the genre's influence.
Insider tip: Add the Historic RCA Studio B tour to your ticket. This is where Elvis, Dolly Parton, and countless others recorded hits. You can stand where they stood and hear stories about legendary recording sessions. It's worth every penny.
Best time: Weekday mornings (9-11 AM) are least crowded. Plan for 2-3 hours minimum—there's a lot to see.
The Parthenon at Centennial Park
What it is: A full-scale replica of the ancient Greek Parthenon, built for Tennessee's 1897 Centennial Exposition. Inside stands a 42-foot statue of Athena covered in gold leaf—the tallest indoor sculpture in the Western world.
Why it's special: This is one of Nashville's most unexpected attractions. The craftsmanship is stunning, the art collection inside is impressive, and the surrounding park is perfect for picnics. It's a reminder that Nashville has always been a city of big ideas and bold execution.
Insider tip: Visit during golden hour for incredible photos. The building glows in late afternoon light. Combine it with a walk around the park's lake and gardens. Admission is cheap ($10), and it's a nice break from the music scene.
Best time: Spring when the park is blooming, or fall for colorful foliage. Weekday afternoons are peaceful.
Ryman Auditorium
What it is: The "Mother Church of Country Music," this 1892 venue hosted the Grand Ole Opry for 31 years and remains one of the world's best-sounding rooms. It's still an active concert venue with incredible acoustics.
Why it's special: The Ryman has hosted everyone from Hank Williams to Lizzo. The wooden pews, stained glass, and perfect acoustics create an intimate atmosphere even with 2,300 people. Catching a show here is a bucket-list experience.
Insider tip: If you can't get concert tickets, take the self-guided daytime tour. You can stand on stage, sit in the pews, and hear stories through the audio guide. The backstage tour (offered select days) is even better—you'll see dressing rooms and hear insider stories.
Best time: Check the concert schedule and book early for artists you love. Tours are available daily 9 AM - 4 PM.
Johnny Cash Museum
What it is: The world's largest collection of Johnny Cash artifacts, including stage costumes, handwritten lyrics, personal letters, and rare recordings. It's a deeply personal look at the Man in Black's life and legacy.
Why it's special: This isn't a stuffy museum—it's a passionate tribute created by a superfan who spent decades collecting. The exhibits tell Cash's full story: the highs, the lows, the redemption, and the enduring love story with June Carter.
Insider tip: Don't rush through. Read the letters, listen to the audio clips, and watch the video interviews. The gift shop has unique items you won't find elsewhere. Combine it with the nearby Patsy Cline Museum (same building, separate admission).
Best time: Weekday mornings for a quieter, more reflective experience. Plan for 60-90 minutes.
Riverfront Park and the Cumberland River
What it is: A revitalized waterfront park with walking paths, green spaces, public art, and stunning views of downtown Nashville. It connects to the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge, perfect for sunset walks.
Why it's special: This is where locals come to escape the tourist crowds. The park hosts free concerts and events, the bridge offers panoramic city views, and it's a peaceful spot to recharge between honky-tonk sessions.
Insider tip: Walk the pedestrian bridge at sunset for incredible skyline photos. The east side of the river has great views back toward downtown. Bring a picnic and watch the riverboats pass by. It's completely free and surprisingly uncrowded.
Best time: Late afternoon through sunset. Spring and fall offer the best weather for outdoor activities.
12 South Shopping District
What it is: A trendy neighborhood south of downtown filled with boutiques, vintage shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's where Nashville's creative class shops, eats, and hangs out.
Why it's special: This is Nashville beyond the tourist trail. You'll find locally-owned businesses, the famous "I Believe in Nashville" mural, excellent coffee shops, and some of the city's best casual dining. It feels like a small town within the city.
Insider tip: Start at Frothy Monkey for coffee and breakfast, browse the vintage shops, grab lunch at Bartaco, and don't miss Imogene + Willie for high-end denim. The neighborhood is very walkable—park once and explore on foot. Get your photo at the wings mural early (before 10 AM) to avoid lines.
Best time: Saturday mornings for the full neighborhood vibe. Most shops open around 10 AM.
Bluebird Café
What it is: A tiny 90-seat venue where songwriters perform their hits in an intimate "in the round" format. This is where Garth Brooks was discovered and where Taylor Swift got her start.
Why it's special: You're not just hearing songs—you're hearing the stories behind them from the people who wrote them. The "in the round" format puts four songwriters in the center, taking turns playing and sharing. It's magical, intimate, and uniquely Nashville.
Insider tip: Reservations are essential and open exactly one week before each show at noon. Set an alarm and be ready to book immediately—shows sell out in minutes. There's a strict no-talking policy during performances. Arrive early, order food (required), and prepare for an unforgettable evening.
Best time: Any show is special, but Sunday Writers Nights often feature the biggest names. Weeknight shows are slightly easier to book.
Nashville Hot Chicken Spots
What it is: Nashville's signature dish—fried chicken coated in a cayenne-based paste that ranges from mild to "why did I do this?" hot. It's served on white bread with pickles to cut the heat.
Why it's special: This isn't just spicy chicken—it's a Nashville tradition with serious history. Prince's Hot Chicken Shack invented it in the 1930s, and it's been a local obsession ever since. Now it's gone global, but Nashville still does it best.
Insider tip: Start with medium heat—Nashville hot is no joke. Prince's is the original and still the best (expect lines). Hattie B's is more tourist-friendly with shorter waits. Bolton's is a local favorite. Party Fowl offers a more upscale take. Don't plan anything important after eating—you'll need recovery time.
Best time: Lunch or early dinner to avoid peak crowds. Bring cash for Prince's and Bolton's. Have milk or ice cream ready—water makes the heat worse.
Best Murals & Instagram Locations
What it is: Nashville has become a street art destination with dozens of colorful murals throughout the city. The most famous is the "I Believe in Nashville" wings mural in 12 South.
Why it's special: These aren't just photo ops—they're expressions of Nashville's creative spirit. Local and international artists have transformed walls throughout the city into works of art that celebrate music, culture, and community.
Insider tip: The wings mural gets crowded after 11 AM—go early. Other great spots: "What Lifts You" wings in the Gulch, the colorful wall at Draper James, the "Kellie's Biscuits" mural, and the entire Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood (WeHo) which is becoming a street art district. Download a mural map or take a street art tour.
Best time: Early morning (before 10 AM) for popular murals. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
Free Things to Do in Nashville
Nashville can be expensive, but some of the best experiences won't cost you a dime. Here's how to enjoy Music City on a budget without missing the magic.
Free Live Music
- • Walk Broadway and listen from the street
- • Riverfront Park summer concerts
- • Musicians Corner at Centennial Park (Saturdays, May-Sept)
- • Live at the Green at Public Square Park
- • Hotel lobbies often have free performances
Free Attractions
- • The Parthenon exterior and park (free to walk around)
- • John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge
- • Nashville murals and street art
- • Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
- • Tennessee State Capitol building tours
Free Browsing
- • 12 South neighborhood shops and cafes
- • East Nashville vintage stores
- • The Gulch boutiques and galleries
- • Farmers markets (Nashville Farmers' Market)
- • Antique shops in Marathon Village
Free Walking
- • Self-guided Broadway historic walk
- • Riverfront Park and Greenway trails
- • Shelby Bottoms Nature Center trails
- • Germantown neighborhood architecture
- • Music Row studio spotting
Money-Saving Tip
Many honky-tonks on Broadway have no cover charge—just tip the bands. You can enjoy hours of live music for the cost of a few drinks and tips. That's the Nashville way.
Things to Do in Nashville for Couples
Nashville sets the stage for romance with intimate music venues, rooftop bars with skyline views, and dining experiences that range from cozy to spectacular. Here's how to make your couples' getaway unforgettable.
Romantic Dining Experiences
Book a table at The Catbird Seat for an intimate chef's counter experience, or try Etch for upscale Southern cuisine with a view. For something more casual but equally romantic, Margot Café in East Nashville offers French-Italian fusion in a charming cottage setting.
Rooftop Bars with Views
L.A. Jackson at the Thompson Hotel offers stunning skyline views and craft cocktails. Acme Feed & Seed has a rooftop bar overlooking Broadway. For sunset drinks, head to Up on the rooftop at Kimpton Aertson Hotel—the views are spectacular.
Intimate Music Venues
The Bluebird Café is perfect for couples who appreciate songwriting. The Listening Room Café offers a similar vibe with dinner service. For jazz, try Rudy's Jazz Room—it's sophisticated, intimate, and feels like stepping back in time.
Sunset Walks and Views
Walk the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge at golden hour for incredible photos and city views. Stroll through Cheekwood Estate & Gardens (especially beautiful in spring). Take a sunset riverboat cruise on the General Jackson Showboat.
Couples Spa Experiences
Book a couples massage at Woodhouse Day Spa or the spa at the Hermitage Hotel. For something unique, try the salt cave at Nashville Salt Spa—it's relaxing and unlike anything you've done before.
Wine Tasting and Breweries
Visit Arrington Vineyards (owned by Kix Brooks) for wine tasting with rolling hill views. In the city, try City Winery for live music with your wine. For craft beer lovers, Jackalope Brewing and Bearded Iris Brewing offer great atmospheres.
Nashville Nightlife Guide
Nashville's nightlife is legendary, but it's not all honky-tonks and country music. The city offers everything from dive bars to sophisticated cocktail lounges, late-night hot chicken to rooftop dance parties.
Live Country Music Venues
Broadway is the obvious choice, but don't miss Robert's Western World (best fried bologna sandwich), Tootsie's Orchid Lounge (historic and always packed), and Layla's Bluegrass Inn (for traditional sounds). Most have no cover—just tip the bands generously.
Beyond Country: Alternative Music Scenes
The Basement and The Basement East showcase rock, indie, and alternative acts. The End is Nashville's punk and metal venue. Mercy Lounge/Cannery Ballroom hosts touring bands across genres. Exit/In has been a Nashville institution since 1971.
Craft Cocktail Bars
The Patterson House serves meticulously crafted cocktails in a speakeasy atmosphere. Attaboy is a hidden gem (literally—no sign). The Fox Bar & Cocktail Club offers creative drinks in a stylish setting. For something unique, try Pinewood Social—it has a bowling alley and pool.
Rooftop Bars and Dance Clubs
L.A. Jackson and Acme Feed & Seed offer rooftop vibes. For dancing, try Tin Roof (live music and dancing), Whiskey Row (multi-level with different vibes), or The Valentine (upscale nightclub). Printer's Alley has several clubs in a historic alley setting.
Late-Night Eats
Hot chicken at 2 AM is a Nashville tradition. Prince's is open late on weekends. Pepperfire serves until 4 AM on weekends. For something different, try Mas Tacos (until midnight) or The Pharmacy Burger (until 3 AM on weekends).
Safety Reminder
Broadway gets extremely crowded on weekends. Stay aware of your surroundings, don't leave drinks unattended, and use rideshare apps rather than walking alone late at night. Check our travel safety guide for more tips.
Best Time to Visit Nashville
Nashville is a year-round destination, but timing your visit can make a big difference in crowds, prices, and weather. Here's what to expect each season.
Spring (April-May)
Best overall time to visit. Weather is perfect (60s-70s°F), flowers are blooming, and festival season kicks off. CMA Fest in June draws huge crowds—book early or avoid if you want a quieter experience.
Pros: Beautiful weather, outdoor activities, festivals
Cons: Higher prices, more tourists, book ahead
Summer (June-August)
Hot and humid (85-95°F), but the music never stops. Great outdoor concerts, rooftop bars are in full swing, and the energy is high. Afternoon thunderstorms are common.
Pros: Outdoor concerts, rooftop season, long days
Cons: Hot and humid, afternoon storms, peak prices
Fall (September-October)
Second-best time to visit. Comfortable temperatures (60s-70s°F), fall colors, and fewer crowds than spring. Football season adds energy. Perfect for outdoor activities and walking tours.
Pros: Great weather, fall colors, manageable crowds
Cons: Football weekends get busy, book ahead
Winter (November-March)
Mild winters (40s-50s°F) with occasional cold snaps. Lowest prices and smallest crowds. Indoor venues are cozy. Holiday season (Nov-Dec) is festive but busier.
Pros: Best prices, fewer crowds, cozy venues
Cons: Some outdoor activities limited, shorter days
Festival Calendar Highlights
- • CMA Fest (June): Massive country music festival—book 6+ months ahead
- • Americana Music Festival (September): Showcases roots music across venues
- • Nashville Film Festival (October): Independent films and industry events
- • New Year's Eve: Music City Midnight with outdoor concert and fireworks
Where to Stay in Nashville
Where you stay shapes your Nashville experience. Each neighborhood has its own personality, and choosing the right one depends on what you want from your trip.
Downtown / Broadway (Best for First-Timers)
Why stay here: You're in the heart of the action. Walk to honky-tonks, museums, and restaurants. No need for transportation. Perfect if you want to maximize your time and experience the full Nashville energy.
Vibe: Busy, touristy, loud (especially on weekends), but incredibly convenient. You'll hear music from your hotel room.
Recommendations: The Hermitage Hotel (luxury), Thompson Nashville (boutique), Hyatt Place Downtown (mid-range), Fairfield Inn & Suites (budget-friendly).
The Gulch (Best for Luxury & Nightlife)
Why stay here: Nashville's trendiest neighborhood with upscale hotels, rooftop bars, high-end restaurants, and boutique shopping. Walking distance to downtown but quieter and more sophisticated.
Vibe: Modern, stylish, Instagram-worthy. Great for couples and those who want luxury with easy access to nightlife.
Recommendations: The Joseph (luxury boutique), Kimpton Aertson Hotel (upscale), Placemakr Gulch (extended stay).
East Nashville (Best for Hip/Creative Vibe)
Why stay here: Where locals live and hang out. Vintage shops, dive bars, excellent restaurants, and a more authentic Nashville feel. Less touristy, more neighborhood-oriented.
Vibe: Artsy, eclectic, laid-back. Great for travelers who want to experience Nashville beyond the tourist trail. You'll need rideshare to get downtown.
Recommendations: Urban Cowboy B&B (boutique), Airbnb rentals (many unique options), The Russell (boutique hotel).
Germantown (Best for Foodies)
Why stay here: Historic neighborhood with some of Nashville's best restaurants. Beautiful architecture, walkable streets, and close to downtown without the chaos. Perfect for food-focused trips.
Vibe: Charming, historic, food-centric. Quieter than downtown but still convenient. Great for couples and food lovers.
Recommendations: Germantown Inn (boutique), Airbnb historic homes, short walk to downtown hotels.
Budget-Friendly Options
Where to look: Chain hotels near the airport or along major highways offer the best value. You'll need a car or budget for rideshares, but you'll save significantly on accommodation.
Recommendations: Hampton Inn & Suites (various locations), Holiday Inn Express, Best Western, or Airbnb rooms in residential neighborhoods. Use our Cost Calculator to budget your trip.
What to Eat in Nashville
Nashville's food scene has exploded beyond hot chicken. While you absolutely must try the city's signature dish, don't miss the incredible diversity of Southern cooking, international cuisines, and innovative restaurants that make Nashville a true food destination.
Must-Try Nashville Foods
Nashville Hot Chicken
Where: Prince's Hot Chicken Shack (the original), Hattie B's (tourist-friendly), Bolton's (local favorite), Party Fowl (upscale version)
What to order: Start with medium heat. Served on white bread with pickles. Have milk ready.
Meat-and-Three
Where: Arnold's Country Kitchen (James Beard Award winner), Swett's (soul food institution), Monell's (family-style)
What it is: Choose one meat and three sides from daily offerings. This is traditional Southern home cooking at its finest.
Biscuits
Where: Biscuit Love (gourmet biscuits), Loveless Cafe (legendary), The Southern (upscale Southern)
What to order: The Bonuts at Biscuit Love (biscuit donuts), country ham biscuits at Loveless.
BBQ
Where: Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint (whole hog), Peg Leg Porker (dry rub), Edley's (modern take)
What to order: Pulled pork, ribs, and don't skip the sides—mac and cheese, collard greens, baked beans.
Local Breweries
Where: Jackalope Brewing, Bearded Iris Brewing, Tennessee Brew Works, Yazoo Brewing
What to try: Local IPAs, seasonal brews, and many breweries have food trucks or full kitchens.
Beyond Southern Food
Nashville's food scene includes excellent international options: Ramen at Two Ten Jack, tacos at Mas Tacos Por Favor, Ethiopian at Gojo, Vietnamese at Kien Giang, and Italian at Cinqué. The city's culinary diversity rivals much larger cities.
2-3 Day Nashville Itinerary
Here are sample itineraries for different types of travelers. Mix and match based on your interests, and remember to build in flexibility—some of the best Nashville experiences happen spontaneously.
Day 1: First-Time Visitor Itinerary
Morning (9 AM - 12 PM)
- • Breakfast at Biscuit Love (arrive by 9 AM to beat crowds)
- • Walk to Country Music Hall of Fame (opens at 9 AM)
- • Spend 2-3 hours exploring the museum
- • Add the RCA Studio B tour if available
Afternoon (12 PM - 5 PM)
- • Lunch at a meat-and-three (Arnold's or Swett's)
- • Walk Broadway and explore honky-tonks (daytime is less crowded)
- • Visit Johnny Cash Museum
- • Coffee break at Frothy Monkey
- • Explore 12 South neighborhood and get photos at the wings mural
Evening (5 PM - Late)
- • Early dinner at Hattie B's for hot chicken
- • Sunset walk across the pedestrian bridge
- • Return to Broadway for nighttime honky-tonk hopping
- • Hit Tootsie's, Robert's Western World, and Layla's
- • Late-night snack if you're still standing
Day 2: Music Lover's Itinerary
Morning (9 AM - 12 PM)
- • Breakfast at Pancake Pantry (expect a wait, but worth it)
- • Ryman Auditorium tour (opens at 9 AM)
- • Walk Music Row and spot recording studios
- • Visit the Musicians Hall of Fame
Afternoon (12 PM - 5 PM)
- • Lunch at Puckett's Grocery (live music during lunch)
- • Drive to the Grand Ole Opry (20 minutes from downtown)
- • Take the backstage tour
- • Explore Opry Mills if you have time
Evening (5 PM - Late)
- • Dinner at City Winery (live music with dinner)
- • Attend the Grand Ole Opry show (if available)
- • OR catch a show at the Bluebird Café (book in advance)
- • Late-night drinks at The Listening Room Café
Day 3: Local Favorites & Hidden Gems
Morning (9 AM - 12 PM)
- • Breakfast at Marché Artisan Foods
- • Visit the Parthenon at Centennial Park
- • Walk the park and gardens
- • Explore Germantown neighborhood
Afternoon (12 PM - 5 PM)
- • Lunch at Mas Tacos Por Favor
- • Explore East Nashville vintage shops and murals
- • Coffee at Barista Parlor
- • Visit Cheekwood Estate & Gardens (if time permits)
- • Browse the Nashville Farmers' Market
Evening (5 PM - Late)
- • Dinner at The Catbird Seat or Etch (upscale)
- • Rooftop drinks at L.A. Jackson
- • Catch a show at The Basement or Exit/In
- • End with late-night hot chicken at Prince's
Planning Tip
Use our Time Calculator to plan realistic daily schedules with travel time between attractions. Nashville traffic can be heavy during rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM).
How to Get Around Nashville
Nashville's transportation options have improved significantly, but the city is still car-centric outside of downtown. Here's how to navigate Music City efficiently and safely.
Walking
Best for: Downtown, Broadway, the Gulch, Germantown
Downtown Nashville is very walkable. You can easily explore Broadway, Riverfront Park, and nearby neighborhoods on foot. Wear comfortable shoes—you'll walk more than you think.
Scooters & Bikes
Best for: Short trips, exploring neighborhoods
Electric scooters (Bird, Lime) are everywhere downtown. Great for quick trips. Bike share programs available. Be cautious—Nashville drivers aren't always scooter-aware.
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Best for: Nighttime, trips outside downtown, airport
Most convenient option for getting around. Prices surge on weekend nights. Budget $15-25 for most trips within the city. Essential for visiting the Grand Ole Opry or East Nashville.
Public Transit
Best for: Budget travelers, daytime trips
WeGo Public Transit operates buses throughout Nashville. The Music City Circuit offers free downtown circulator routes. Service is limited compared to major cities.
Rental Car
Best for: Day trips, staying outside downtown
Useful for visiting attractions outside the city center. Downtown parking is expensive ($20-40/day). Traffic can be heavy during rush hours. Not necessary if staying downtown.
Airport Transportation
Best for: Getting to/from BNA Airport
Nashville International Airport (BNA) is 15 minutes from downtown. Rideshare ($25-35), taxi ($30-40), or WeGo bus Route 18 ($2). No direct train service yet.
Safety Note
Broadway gets extremely crowded on weekend nights. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially when using rideshare pickup areas. For more safety tips, check our travel safety guide.
Packing Tips for Nashville
What you pack depends on when you're visiting, but Nashville has some unique considerations. Here's what to bring for a comfortable trip to Music City.
Seasonal Packing Considerations
Spring/Fall (April-May, Sept-Oct)
- • Layers (mornings cool, afternoons warm)
- • Light jacket or cardigan
- • Comfortable walking shoes
- • Sunglasses and sunscreen
- • Light rain jacket (spring showers)
Summer (June-August)
- • Lightweight, breathable clothing
- • Shorts and sundresses
- • Hat for sun protection
- • Sunscreen (essential)
- • Umbrella (afternoon thunderstorms)
Winter (Nov-March)
- • Warm jacket or coat
- • Long pants and sweaters
- • Closed-toe shoes
- • Scarf and gloves (for cold snaps)
- • Layers for indoor/outdoor transitions
Year-Round Essentials
- • Comfortable walking shoes (you'll walk a lot)
- • Casual clothes (Nashville is laid-back)
- • One nicer outfit (upscale restaurants)
- • Portable phone charger
- • Reusable water bottle
Nashville-Specific Packing Tips
- Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable. You'll walk miles on Broadway alone. Blisters will ruin your trip.
- Dress code is casual. Even nice restaurants rarely require formal wear. Jeans and boots fit in everywhere.
- Bring a light jacket for air conditioning. Venues blast AC in summer—you'll freeze inside after sweating outside.
- Pack earplugs if you're a light sleeper. Downtown hotels can be noisy, especially on weekends.
- Leave expensive jewelry at home. Nashville is generally safe, but crowded tourist areas attract pickpockets.
For a complete packing checklist, visit our travel packing list and best travel gear guides.
Final Tips for Visiting Nashville
After covering the essentials, here are insider tips and local wisdom that will help you experience Nashville like someone who lives here.
Tip the Musicians Generously
Most Broadway honky-tonks don't charge cover because musicians work for tips. If you enjoy the music, tip well. These are professional musicians, many with recording contracts, playing 4-hour sets. $5-10 per set is standard, more if you're staying a while.
Venture Beyond Broadway
Broadway is fun, but it's not all of Nashville. The best food is in East Nashville and Germantown. The coolest bars are in the Gulch and East Nashville. The most authentic music experiences happen in smaller venues. Don't spend your entire trip on one street.
Book Popular Venues in Advance
The Bluebird Café, Grand Ole Opry, and popular restaurants book up weeks ahead. Don't assume you can walk in. Check schedules and reserve as early as possible, especially for weekend visits.
Embrace the Unexpected
Some of the best Nashville experiences happen spontaneously. That random bar you ducked into might have tomorrow's superstar playing. That food truck you tried might serve the best meal of your trip. Stay flexible and follow your curiosity.
Respect the Music and the Musicians
Nashville takes music seriously. Don't talk during performances at listening rooms. Don't request "Free Bird" ironically. Don't assume every musician plays country. Show respect for the craft and the artists who make Nashville special.
Stay Hydrated and Pace Yourself
Nashville's party atmosphere makes it easy to overdo it. Drink water between alcoholic beverages. Eat regularly (hot chicken helps). Take breaks. You can't enjoy Music City if you're hungover or exhausted.
Ready to Experience Nashville?
Nashville is a city that rewards curiosity, embraces visitors, and creates memories that last a lifetime. Whether you're here for the music, the food, the nightlife, or all of the above, Music City won't disappoint.
Use our Driving Calculator to plan your route to Nashville, and check out our travel tips for more planning advice. Safe travels, and enjoy every moment in Music City!
Last Updated: January 2025
