Things To Do
in Nashville
Nashville is a city built on music, history, and Southern hospitality. It blends legendary country roots with a modern, lively scene, from Broadway honky-tonks to buzzing food neighborhoods. The city’s neighborhoods range from the riverfront to stylish Midtown and artsy East Nashville, each with a distinct vibe.
Expect warm summers, mild winters, and a calendar full of live music and outdoor festivals year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Pancake Pantry, known for its delicious pancakes and local charm. After fueling up, stroll through the historic streets of downtown Nashville, admiring the stunning architecture and vibrant murals. Don't forget to visit the iconic Ryman Auditorium, where you can soak in the rich history of country music.
In the afternoon, head to the Country Music Hall of Fame to explore its extensive collection of exhibits dedicated to the genre's legends. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Merchants, a local favorite offering Southern cuisine. Afterward, take a guided tour of the Johnny Cash Museum, where you can delve deeper into the life and legacy of The Man in Black.
As evening falls, make your way to Broadway, where live music spills out from honky-tonks and bars. Grab dinner at Acme Feed & Seed, which features a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city skyline. Cap off your night by catching a live performance at one of the many venues showcasing up-and-coming artists.
Start your morning with coffee and a pastry at Barista Parlor, an artisanal café known for its unique brews. After breakfast, explore the Gulch, a vibrant neighborhood filled with street art and boutique shops. Don’t miss the famous 'Nashville' mural, perfect for a photo op to commemorate your trip.
For lunch, enjoy the culinary delights of The 404 Kitchen, which offers a farm-to-table experience in a chic setting. Afterward, visit the Frist Art Museum, where you can admire rotating exhibitions from local and international artists. Spend some time meandering through the museum's beautiful art deco building, appreciating both the art and architecture.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at the stylish Kayne Prime, known for its exceptional steaks and innovative menu. Post-dinner, take a stroll through the vibrant streets and find a cozy bar to enjoy craft cocktails. If you’re in the mood for entertainment, check out the schedule at the nearby Bridgestone Arena for any live events.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🚕Ride-share taxi (short trip) | $8-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-200 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant live music scene and friendly Southern hospitality
- Rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and great food options
- Walkable downtown cores and beautiful riverfront
- Strong tourism infrastructure with many reputable venues and museums
- Hot summers can be intense
- Tourist crowds on weekends around Broadway
- Housing and dining costs rising in popular neighborhoods
- Traffic around events and during peak hours
Places to Visit in Nashville
Visit one of these nice places.
A full-scale replica of the Athenian Parthenon surrounded by gardens and ponds, great for grand architectural shots.
Iconic pedestrian bridge with dramatic skyline views and sunset lighting over the Cumberland River.
Vibrant neon and lively street scenes—perfect for candid night photography.
Historic venue with distinctive architecture and an atmospheric exterior for daytime or night portraits.
Waterfront trails and river views that provide calm, scenic backdrops.
Food in Nashville
Nashville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fried chicken brushed with cayenne-laced heat, typically served with pickle chips and white bread.
Must-Try!
A Southern plate offering a choice of main protein with three sides, a staple in many diners and sit-downs.
Fluffy biscuits smothered in creamy gravy, a comforting brunch or breakfast staple.
Smoky pulled pork or brisket with tangy sauces, found in barbecue joints around town.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub for local produce, prepared foods, and seasonal treats, with stalls and food trucks.
A revolving lineup of farmers’ market-style vendors offering diverse street bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Nashville embraces Southern hospitality; greet with a friendly 'hello' or 'how are you?' and say please and thank you. Tipping is customary for service; avoid loud behavior in quiet venues and respect local quiet hours.
Safety
Tipping in Nashville
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurant servers typically receive 15-20% tips; bartenders often $1-2 per drink; tip hotel staff as appropriate.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still useful, and mobile wallets are common in many venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blossoming trees; carry a light jacket and be prepared for pop-up showers.
Hot and humid, with afternoon storms common; hydrate, wear sunscreen, and take advantage of early-morning activities.
Pleasant weather and fall foliage in many neighborhoods; perfect for walking tours and outdoor dining.
Cool to cold with occasional cold snaps; indoor activities, museums, and live music are popular options.
Nashville at Night
Hiking in Nashville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic, wooded trails around a scenic lake just outside Nashville.
Extensive network of forested trails and rolling hills.
Waterfront trails and picnic areas along Percy Priest Lake.
Airports
How to reach Nashville by plane.
Main airport serving Nashville; about 9-12 miles from downtown; car rentals, rideshares, and public transit options available.
About 120 miles east of Nashville; serves regional flights and connections.
Approx. 100 miles southwest; serves the Alabama region with several carriers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
East Nashville, Germantown, 12 South, and The Gulch feature diverse populations, creative communities, and varied dining and music scenes.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
NFL's Tennessee Titans and college football scene energize fall weekends.
Nashville Sounds provide minor league baseball action in the region.
Nashville SC (MLS) offers professional soccer with city-wide fan support.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nashville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in Nashville—look for veggie sides, salads, and plant-based entrees at many restaurants; many meat-and-three joints offer veggie-only plates.