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.
The Basics
- 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.
Best Time to Visit Nashville
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.
Top Things to do in Nashville
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.
Best Hotels in Nashville
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.
Best Restaurants in Nashville
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
Price: $$$
Midtown Cafe is an intimate, classy restaurant in Midtown Nashville. Perfect for a date night or dinner with friends, Midtown's chic atmosphere blends industrial-chic elegance and contemporary art. Beautifully plated food, great drinks and impeccable service are hallmarks of this restaurant, which is why locals and visitors alike return again and again. Reservations are recommended, but not required. Midtown is also open for breakfast and it is arguably one of the best breakfasts in Nashville.
Nada Nashville
Best For: casual Lunch or dinner
Address: 202 21st Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
Type of Cuisine: Mexican
Price: $$
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.
Little Fib
Best For: hearty comfort food and a great atmosphere
Address: 611 Commerce St, Nashville, TN 37203
Type of Cuisine: Southern American
Price: $$
Little Fib is set in a historic atmosphere and serves up retro American cuisine, including a wide array of Southern-style favorites. The roomy hotel is stylish and fun without being pretentious; the atmosphere is great for families, friends or a date night. A great stop for breakfast, lunch or dinner, expect prompt service and hearty servings of mouthwatering Southern food.
Sambuca Restaurant
Best For: small plates and live Music
Address: 601 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
Type of Cuisine: American
Price: $$$
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
Price: $$
The Stillery serves up brick oven pizzas and freshly-grilled burgers, along with mason jar cocktails and an array of local draft beers. Live music on weekends, happy hours on weekdays and a fun, friendly vibe make this an easy hangout spot, whether you're grabbing a dinner with family or heading out for a quick drink with friends.
Trattoria Il Mulino
Best For: chic Italian cuisine
Address: 144 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville, TN 37201
Type of Cuisine: Italian
Price: $$$
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
Price: $
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 Safety Tips
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.
Planning Your Trip to Nashville
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.