Plan Your Trip to Nashville: Best of Nashville Tourism
Nashville, Tennessee
Essential Nashville
Things to do
Food & drink
There’s more than one way to play Music City
Traveler Guides
A guide to Nashville’s bachelorette scene
- Murals & Mimosas Sightseeing Tour in Nashville73Get ready for three hours of pure Instagram heaven as you’re bussed around Music City, snapping pics and sipping bubbly in front of colorful murals. From angel wings to fun phrases, these Nashville backdrops beg for a boozy photoshoot. Finish your glass, freshen your lipstick, and strike a pose, ladies. This tour is all about good vibes—the perfect way to kick off your bachelorette festivities in style.
- Nashville Biggest & Wildest Party Public Tractor Tour (Ages 21+)2,023Climb aboard a funky tractor decked out in rainbow lights for a wild ride down Lower Broadway, complete with a cash bar. Put on those sequin cowboy hats and wave at the onlookers like the beauty queens you are. The Nashville Tractor Party is perfect for bridal parties in search of silly sassiness.
- Prince's Hot Chicken South134Treat your girls to a taste of the original Nashville hot chicken. Order the three-wing basket with fries, and don’t miss the additional sides like baked beans, macaroni and cheese, and coleslaw, sold à la carte. But a heads up: Prince’s doesn’t play around with its spice levels.
- Nearest Green Distillery435Take a 45-minute road trip from downtown Nashville to visit Uncle Nearest Distillery in Shelbyville, Tennessee, known for its award-winning whiskey and cool history (it’s inspired by the first known African-American master distiller). Check out the 100-foot-long bar and order the 1856 Premium Whiskey for a smooth taste with hints of caramel and oak. Or get crazy with the 114.2 proof Master Blend—it’s so strong it’ll put hair on your chest.
- Rare Bird2Imagine sipping bubbles and doing bumps of caviar 15 stories high at Rare Bird’s penthouse patio, with mod couches galore for lounging. Is your flock more of a cocktail gang? Order the Punch of Roses, a massive communal drink that will fuel the whole crew.
- L27 Rooftop Lounge77Head over to L27, the rooftop bar at the Westin Hotel, where the skyline views of downtown Nashville will blow you away. Enjoy shareables like truffled grits risotto, grilled octopus, hot chicken sliders, and a cheese board that’s to die for.
- Greenhouse Bar2If rooftops aren’t your thing, there’s a gorgeous courtyard hangout at the Sanctuary Hotel’s GreenHouse Bar that’s filled with plants and serving up botanical-inspired drinks like a rose- and jasmine-infused gin and tonic with St. Elder liqueur. Trust me, y’all—no matter where you go, Nashville brings the heat for a good time.
- The Hermitage Hotel121I take my bachelorette party responsibilities very seriously. Only the best hotels in Nashville will do. I’m talking posh presidential suites at The Hermitage Hotel, with gorgeous French decorative flair and fancy soaking tubs for days.
- Dream Nashville1,009Glam it up at the Dream Hotel, where the disco-fabulous rooms have plush beds and glittering city views. Order champagne on ice and don’t forget to bring fuzzy PJs, face masks, and ring pops to help celebrate the bride-to-be. Plus, the Dream is within steps of the action, totally Instagrammable, and sure to create a weekend to remember.
- Bobby Hotel1,402For killer views and luxury vibes, head to The Bobby Hotel. Splash out on the sprawling two-bedroom suite, with a private balcony and plenty of space for you and the girls to unwind. Then hit the rooftop bar, where there’s a 1956 Scenicruiser bus, a pool for warm days, and in winter, a pop-up bar called Camp Bobby, where you can rent a vintage-inspired decorated igloo and toast the bride with campground-inspired drinks and bites.
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More cities with a buzzy music scene
Nashville Travel Guide
Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Nashville
MelaniePF
Nashville is a small town in a big city. It’s famous for being the home of country music, and with good reason, but there's also so much more to experience here in "Music City." Everything from delicious food to fascinating history, stellar shopping to world-class art and museums, and more.
MelaniePF
Since its foundation in 1779, Nashville has grown into a pivotal nerve center of the arts. Whether your interests lie in music or cars, sports, visual arts, or even railroads, there are dozens of museums in Nashville offering a wide range of cultural activities for all ages to enjoy.
Angela A
Nashville is not only the home of country music, but it is home to mouth-watering food as well. While southern favorites are Nashville's specialty, expect to find hip, fine dining, and delicious, world-class cuisine in the "Music City!"
Angela A
Be sure to immerse yourself in the music, whether that means dancing at one of the bars on Broadway, taking in a show at a little cafe, or stopping to listen to a busker on a street corner.
MelaniePF
Say hello to a local and experience the warmth of southern hospitality first hand.
tennessee2913
Nashville is a very casual place, but if you would like to dress up you will be fine also. Anything goes around here.
What is the best way to get there?
flying
Nashville International Airport is around five miles from downtown.
car
Nashville is connected to several interstate highways, including the I-65 (north-south), I-40 (east-west), and I-24 (northwest-southeast). Cities such as Memphis, Chattanooga, and Louisville are easily accessible by road.
Do I need a visa?
If you’re visiting Nashville from overseas, use the State Department’s Visa Wizard to see if you need a visa.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring and fall: You’ll beat the crowds and enjoy pleasant weather by visiting in spring or fall. Average highs are 61 Fahrenheit (16 Celsius) in September to 78 Fahrenheit (25.5 Celsius) from March through May and 82 Fahrenheit (28 Celsius) and 60 Fahrenheit (15.5 Celsius) from September through November.
Get around
bus
Nashville MTA operates routes throughout downtown and the surrounding area. Free transfers are provided; just ask the driver for a transfer pass when you board. An all-day pass is a money-saving option if you are planning to make multiple trips.
For more information, check out Nashville MTA.
taxi
Taxis are plentiful and can be hailed on the street.
bicycle
Nashville's public bike-share scheme, Nashville B-Cycle, has more than 30 stations throughout the city. After purchasing a 24-hour membership, your first hour is free. Weekly, monthly, and annual plans are also available.
On the ground
What is the timezone?
Central Daylight Time
What are the voltage/plug types?
The standard voltage in the United States is 120 V and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. The plug has two flat parallel pins.
What is the currency?
The U.S. Dollar
Are ATMs readily accessible?
Yes.
Are credit cards widely accepted?
Yes.
How much do I tip?
Bartender
$1 a drink or $2 for a more labor-intensive cocktail
Restaurant
15-20%
Bellhop
$1 to 3 per bag
Housekeeper
$2-$3 per night
Taxis/rideshare
15-20%
Shuttle driver
$1-$2 per person
Tour guide
10-20%
Are there local customs I should know?
Drinking
The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 21 years old.
You can't buy liquor on Sundays
It can only be sold from 8 a.m. and 11 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
Smile
Southerners tend to be warm and friendly. Make eye contact, say “hello,” and expect conversations to start up.
Mind your manners
Good manners are an attribute in the South. Say please and thank you; address people as “sir” and “ma’am,” and greet staff when you enter and leave a store.
Call it "sweet tea"
In Nashville, it’s known as “sweet tea” not “ice tea.”
Public transit
Offer your seat to elderly and pregnant people and those with disabilities.
Nashville travel advice
Local Recommendations
Some travelers have recommended local eateries like Hattie B's and M.L. Rose on 8th Ave for good local food along I-65 in Nashville. Others suggested Merchants in downtown Nashville, which allows for reservations, providing a casual yet nice dining atmosphere.
Music and Dining
According to forum posts, for those seeking a combination of good food and music, Broadway in downtown Nashville is lined with honky-tonks offering live music and various food options. Some of these venues lean more towards restaurant settings with full menus.
Special Dining Experiences
For a more specific dining recommendation, travelers have suggested visiting places like Blanco Cocina Cantina at Broadway and Fifth, which accepts reservations for groups of six or more, and Eddie V's for a nice dinner. The Grand Hyatt rooftop bar was also highlighted for great views and cocktails.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Popular Choices
According to forum posts, The Hermitage Hotel is highly recommended by several users due to its historical significance and luxury amenities. It's considered by many to be the best hotel in the city.
Location and Attractions
For many users, the SoBro area, particularly the Black Swan SoBro Guest House, is favored for its proximity to downtown attractions like the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Johnny Cash Museum. This location offers easy access to Nashville's main attractions while providing a quieter stay.
Budget and Value
Some travelers have mentioned the Renaissance Nashville Hotel attached to the Twelve Thirty Club as a good option for those looking for a central location with live music and dining options on-site.
Historic and Quirky Options
Travelers have called out the Union Station Hotel, situated in the old Nashville train station, for those seeking a unique and historic stay slightly removed from the main tourist areas but still within walking distance.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?General Recommendations
According to forum posts, the Nashville Zoo, Nashville Shores Waterpark, and various museums including the Country Music Hall of Fame are popular among families. The Frist Museum and its ArtQuest section are highlighted as particularly kid-friendly.
Specific Venues
Some travelers mentioned specific venues like the Wildhorse Saloon and the George Jones, which offer family-friendly environments with live music, allowing minors until early evening. The downtown library is also recommended for its puppet shows and storytelling sessions.
Outdoor Activities
For outdoor activities, travelers have called out the Cheekwood Botanical Gardens and various parks like the Fannie Mae Dees Park and the Parthenon, which offer spacious areas for children to play. Dragon Park in Hillsboro Village and Shelby Park Playground are also noted as good spots for young children.
Online Resources
Forum users often referred to a specific blog, notesonnashville.com, for a comprehensive list of activities suited for children and families visiting Nashville. This resource is frequently updated with current information on kid-friendly activities and attractions.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Ground Transportation Options
According to forum posts, Nashville Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options. These include taxis, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, buses, and pre-booked car services. The airport’s official website provides a comprehensive list of services available.
Bus Service
Travelers have noted that taking the bus is a cost-effective option, with a direct bus route available from the airport to downtown Nashville costing about $2 per person. The bus stop is conveniently located next to the Uber/taxi stands at the airport.
Rideshare and Taxi Services
For many users, rideshare services and taxis are readily available at Nashville Airport. The typical taxi fare to downtown Nashville is around $25 plus additional charges per rider and airport fees. Rideshare options often present a slightly cheaper alternative.
Special Transportation Needs
Some travelers mentioned the availability of specialized transportation options like larger vehicles or luxury services, which can be arranged through the airport’s website or recommended Facebook groups for visitors.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Proximity to Opry
According to forum posts, there are numerous dining options near the Grand Ole Opry, particularly within the Opry Mills Mall and the Gaylord Opryland Resort. Travelers have called out The Aquarium, Dave & Buster's, Macaroni Grill, Saltgrass Steakhouse, Chuy's, Mission BBQ, and Subway as some of the closest options within the mall.
Variety of Cuisines
For many users, the variety at Opry Mills is a significant draw, offering choices from fast casual to sit-down dining experiences. Bavarian Bierhaus, a non-chain restaurant, offers German fare and live music, adding to the diversity of dining experiences available near the Opry.
Additional Recommendations
Some travelers said that other nearby dining options include Caney Fork River Valley Grill, known for its lively atmosphere and broad menu, and Chuy's Mexican restaurant, praised for its proximity to the Opry House, making it convenient for those attending shows.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Uber and Taxi
According to forum posts, both Uber and taxis are popular options for transportation to the Grand Ole Opry. A taxi typically charges a flat rate of $25 from downtown to the Opryland area, with an additional cost of $1 per extra passenger. Uber prices may vary based on demand, and they could be cheaper or more expensive than taxis.
Bus Service
Some travelers have mentioned the #34 WeGo City Bus as a viable option. This bus has a route that stops at Opry Mills, close to the Grand Ole Opry. The fare is $2.00 per person each way, or a day pass can be purchased for $4.00.
Shuttle Services
For those looking for a direct group option, private shuttle services are also available. These include offerings from local companies and hotels, though details on specific shuttle providers and prices should be confirmed directly as they can vary.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Show Types at the Opry
According to forum posts, the Opry in Nashville offers a variety of show types, including the Grand Ole Opry and Opry Country Classics. The Grand Ole Opry features a mix of music genres and typically includes up to eight artists performing three songs each. It covers sub-genres like older country, modern country, bluegrass, and western, and may also feature a comedian or songwriter.
Performance Schedule
Travelers have noted that the Grand Ole Opry has performances multiple times a week, typically on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday, with additional shows sometimes on Wednesday. The Opry Country Classics, which focuses more on classic country music, is held less frequently, usually once a week.
Venue Information
Posts indicate that both shows take place at the Opry House, except during certain times like the Christmas season when the venue shifts to the Ryman Auditorium downtown. This change of venue provides a different ambiance and historical context, as the Ryman is a former church and known for its unique acoustics.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Major Sports and Music Events
According to forum posts, Nashville hosts several notable events throughout the year. Major sports events include NFL and NHL games featuring the Tennessee Titans and Nashville Predators, typically active in October. Additionally, Vanderbilt University's home SEC football game occurs in October.
Music and Cultural Festivals
Travelers have called out specific music and cultural events like the concerts of well-known artists such as Elton John and Keith Urban at major venues like Nissan Stadium and Bridgestone Arena. The Nashville Oktoberfest is a popular cultural event held annually in October in the Germantown area, celebrated with enthusiasm and known for its fun atmosphere.
New Year Celebrations
For New Year's Eve, Nashville hosts a significant celebration known as New Year's Eve Live: Nashville's Big Bash, which is a star-studded event broadcast nationally and features multiple hours of live music performances.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?