Nashville, TN

Travel Guide

Downtown Nashville featuring a city, a sunset and a river or creek
Tennessee State Capitol featuring heritage architecture and a park
Music City Center showing modern architecture and a city
Cumberland Park
Nashville featuring a city and night scenes

Follow your ears to Nashville for its celebrated music scene, then go beyond the Grand Ole Opry to family-friendly attractions, epic eats and a rich arts and culture scene.

The “Music City” couples the hospitality and warmth of the South with quirky pocket neighborhoods and a diverse culinary scene. This is where you’ll find historic streets lined with brick buildings, neon lights glowing over bustling bars and innovative restaurants serving up farm-to-table Southern cuisine. While Nashville vacations are popular and convenient for East Coasters and Midwesterners, the city’s biggest fans are country music lovers. After all, this is where Faith Hill, Tim McGraw and Taylor Swift got their start. There’s a sense of celebration in Nashville, an open invitation to tap your feet, indulge in comfort food and immerse yourself in an artistic, soulful culture.

The best areas for accommodation in Nashville

Downtown is the best place to stay for Nashville first-timers as it puts you right in the heart of the action. With venues like the Ryman Auditorium and honky-tonks along Broadway, you’ll be immersed in the city’s legendary music scene. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is nearby. Not close enough to a stage? Stay in the Music Row, Demonbreun or Edgehill areas southwest of Downtown.

Couples seeking the best places to stay in Nashville should set their sights on The Gulch just south of downtown. Known for its chic boutiques, art galleries and gourmet dining, this trendy and upscale district is date night waiting to happen. Also consider walkable Midtown, next to Vanderbilt University, with restaurants, bars and pretty Centennial Park, a lush setting for a stroll when you need a quieter moment.

East Nashville, across the Cumberland River from downtown, provides a more laid-back, neighborhood feel for families looking for the best places to stay. With numerous parks, kid-friendly eateries and local stores, it’s one of the most welcoming areas for those traveling with children. Don’t miss Shelby Park for a family picnic. Opryland is also a big hit with families, 10 miles (16 kilometers) east of downtown and home to Music Valley and the Grand Ole Opry.

Nashville Travel Guide Video

Best time to visit Nashville

  • Spring (April to June): Best time to visit Nashville for a quiet ambiance, pleasant weather and blooming flowers. The balance between sunshine and the occasional rain shower keeps everything lush and fresh.
  • Summer (July to August): Peak music season in the Music City, with countless gigs and outdoor concerts. Pack light for the hottest Nashville weather. 
  • Fall (September to November): Fall is perfect for mild weather and events like Nashville Fall Festival. Check out the fiery foliage in Edwin and Percy Warner Parks
  • Winter (December to March): Chilly but manageable temperatures and some rain. The city lights up with events for the festive season and it's the perfect time of year to indulge in Southern comfort food.

How many days to spend in Nashville

To truly experience the city’s diverse offerings, it’s recommended to stay for around three to four days. Explore the main attractions in the Nashville downtown area, indulge in local cuisine and soak up the city character. Extend your trip to five to seven days if you’d like to road trip along the Natchez Trace Parkway.

The vibe of Nashville

Nashville’s personality is small-town Southern, spiced up with plenty of creativity and big-city fun. Known for its strong musical heritage, the city pulses with live tunes from every corner. Streets are filled with the energy of aspiring musicians and enthusiastic visitors, creating an electric atmosphere. However, creativity doesn’t start and end on the stage. Writers, chefs, artisans, immigrant business owners and more add to the eclectic, bohemian feel throughout the city’s neighborhoods. Whether you explore Nashville’s historic sites or trendy districts, you'll feel the city’s welcoming spirit. Despite its modern growth, Nashville maintains a sense of community and warmth that invites you to slow down and savor every minute.

What is Nashville famous for?

Nashville is most famous for its influential role in the music industry. It’s the birthplace of country music and home to big-name venues like the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium. This is where Elvis, the Everly Brothers and Dolly Parton first graced historic RCA Studio B with their vocal talent. It's home to the National Museum of African American Music, where the profound influence of African American culture on popular music – with genres like jazz, gospel and hip-hop – is brought to life. Take your Nashville travel beyond the music and you’ll find a drool-worthy culinary scene, from hot chicken to modern takes on Southern comfort food favorites. A vibrant arts scene, paired with historic landmarks like Andrew Jackson's Hermitage and the stately Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery, adds depth and character to the Music City.

Events in Nashville

There’s never a dull moment here, making any month the best time to visit Nashville. The calendar keeps churning out events, including the colorful Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival, Fashion Week, CMA Fest, the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, Pride festival, the Tomato Art Fest and the Nashville Film Festival. In fall, Oktoberfest draws revelers from near and far, while the popular AmericanaFest offers a star-studded lineup of roots, rock and folk artists. Over the holidays, don’t miss the enchanting Nashville Christmas Parade. Then, start the year back up with the Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville and Dine Nashville in February.

Top attractions in Nashville

Come rhythm-ready to Nashville. Listening to music is one of the best things to do in Nashville for first-timers, or any-timers. Head to Music Row, where most of the city’s major record labels are located and don’t miss the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Be sure to visit the iconic Grand Ole Opry and take a backstage tour.

Performances at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center and intimate shows at Bluebird Cafe are among the best things to do in Nashville for couples. Spend a day at the bucolic Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, visit the art deco-style Frist Art Museum or have a sunset picnic at Love Circle, a hidden hilltop with skyline views.

Families seeking the best things to do in Nashville will love the Adventure Science Center, with interactive exhibits and the state-of-the-art Sudekum Planetarium. Learn all about state history at the Tennessee State Museum or state geology at Cumberland Caverns, a labyrinth of rock formations and subterranean waterfalls located just over 90 minutes’ drive from Nashville. Or, take the little ones on a self-guided, tree-climbing journey at The Adventure Park.

Where to stay in Nashville

Downtown Nashville which includes a city, a sunset and boating

Downtown Nashville

4/5(5,801 area reviews)

The fantastic nightlife and great live music are just a few highlights of Downtown Nashville. Make a stop by Nissan Stadium or Broadway while you're exploring the area.

Downtown Nashville
Music Row which includes street scenes and signage

Music Row

4.5/5(660 area reviews)

Historic district southwest of downtown Nashville, Music Row boasts numerous record labels, studios, and music-related businesses. Explore upscale restaurants and bars along Demonbreun Street, and admire the "Musica" statue at the Music Row Roundabout.

Music Row
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum showing interior views

SoBro

While visiting SoBro, you might make a stop by sights like Bridgestone Arena and Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

SoBro
Opryland Hotel Gardens showing a garden and interior views

Opryland

Opryland is known for its popular shops, and with sights like Grand Ole Opry and Cooter's Nashville, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Nashville.

Opryland
The District which includes street scenes, a city and night scenes

The District

The abundant dining options and live music are top of the list for many visitors to The District. A stop by Broadway or Schermerhorn Symphony Center might round out your trip.

The District
Downtown Nashville showing outdoor art

East Nashville

4.5/5(70 area reviews)

Creative and artistic flair defines this area, attracting young urban professionals. Enjoy numerous parks, coffee shops, and art galleries, making it perfect for bikers and walkers. Easily navigate via Gallatin Ave and Ellington Parkway.

East Nashville
Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center
Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center
4 out of 5
2800 Opryland Drive, Nashville, TN
Stay at this 4-star spa resort in Nashville. Enjoy 2 outdoor pools, a full-service spa, and 18 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,625 reviews)
"The hotel was nice staff friendly but anyone you talked to for any questions that arises did not seem able to give a clear answer"

Reviewed on Apr 27, 2025

Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center
Hyatt Place Nashville Downtown
Hyatt Place Nashville Downtown
3 out of 5
301 3rd Ave S, Nashville, TN
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Nashville. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and ...
9/10 Wonderful! (5,061 reviews)
"Very close to downtown strip."

Reviewed on Apr 28, 2025

Hyatt Place Nashville Downtown
Comfort Inn Downtown Nashville - Music City Center
Comfort Inn Downtown Nashville - Music City Center
3 out of 5
1501 Demonbreun St, Nashville, TN
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Nashville. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool ...
8/10 Very Good! (2,070 reviews)
"Construction happening around the pool area which started very early in the morning and was quite noisy"

Reviewed on Apr 27, 2025

Comfort Inn Downtown Nashville - Music City Center
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Placemakr Premier SoBro
Placemakr Premier SoBro
4 out of 5
205 Demonbreun St, Nashville, TN
Stay at this 4-star aparthotel in Nashville. Enjoy free WiFi, room service, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (2,570 reviews)
"Easy check in/out. Friendly staff!"

Reviewed on Apr 27, 2025

Placemakr Premier SoBro
Sentral Sobro
Sentral Sobro
4 out of 5
516 Lea Avenue, Nashville, TN
Stay at this 4-star aparthotel in Nashville. Enjoy a fitness center, parking (surcharge), and onsite car rentals. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,339 reviews)
"Loved it! Would stay there again, really safe and clean"

Reviewed on Apr 26, 2025

Sentral Sobro
Placemakr Music Row - Vanderbilt
Placemakr Music Row - Vanderbilt
4 out of 5
1600 McGavock St, Nashville, TN
Stay at this 4-star apartment in Nashville. Enjoy free WiFi, parking (surcharge), and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the convenient ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,449 reviews)
Peacemakr
"Everything was clean. Needs renovation in the bathroom. Specious everywhere’s."

Reviewed on Apr 25, 2025

Placemakr Music Row - Vanderbilt
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Things to do

Food in Nashville

Spicy, crispy hot chicken, biscuits and gravy, shrimp and grits and finger-licking-good barbecue will have you hankering for seconds in Nashville. While you’re here, carve out some time to indulge in Music City’s other favorite pastime: dining. Start the day with a classic Nashville diner breakfast, grab food truck tacos for lunch and see out the evening with a tasting menu at a haute cuisine restaurant. Other foodie-friendly places to visit in Nashville include Germantown for some of the city’s most nationally recognized eateries and East Nashville for up-and-coming chefs showcasing creative menus. Nolensville Road is well-known for its eclectic global cuisine, from Indian to Ethiopian to Central American.

Nightlife in Nashville

Nashville’s nightlife is where its music scene shines. Broadway, or “Honky Tonk Highway,” is the heart of the action, with its just-raucous-enough bars hosting live music every night and with no cover charge. If you’re in the mood for fancy cocktails, the trendy bars in The Gulch deliver both style and substance. For a unique night out, explore Printer’s Alley, a historic street lined with speakeasies and jazz clubs. Go old-school with live music at long-time favorites Legends Corner, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge and Layla’s Honky Tonk. Combine a meal with music at one of Nashville’s fun dinner theaters, where you might glimpse a legendary Nashville performer at the next table.

Shopping in Nashville

In addition to its legendary tunes, Nashville travel also means excellent shopping. Start at 12 South for of-the-moment shops offering everything from vintage finds to handmade jewelry. The Mall at Green Hills offers a more traditional shopping experience, with a range of luxury brands and department stores. Make a day of it at Fifth + Broadway, a mixed-use mall of exclusive restaurants and bars, national and local retailers, performance stages and even a museum. For those interested in supporting local artisans, a visit to the Nashville Farmers Market is a must. Check out the unique items available at the historic Marathon Village and take advantage of great prices at Tanger Outlets Nashville.

Getting around Nashville

Nashville’s convenient transportation options make it easy to get around. WeGo Public Transit offers bus services throughout key central areas. Rideshare services are widely available for more flexible travel. If you prefer to explore by bike, Nashville BCycle provides rental bikes across the city. For a fun and unique way to see the city, consider a Nashville Pedal Tavern tour, combining cycling with a lively group outing.

Nashville currency and budget

The tipping etiquette in Nashville is around 20% for dining and a few small bills for hotel staff. Budgeting approximately $150-$200 USD per day for accommodations, food, transportation and attractions will keep you satisfied. Here are some indicative prices of what you can expect to pay:

  • A meal at an inexpensive restaurant = $19.00 USD
  • A pint of domestic beer = $6.50 USD
  • A medium cappuccino = $5.00 USD
  • A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: $75.00 USD

*Prices are provided for informational purposes and are subject to change.

Reviews of Nashville

4.5
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
6108
5 - Excellent 56%
4 - Good
3960
4 - Good 36%
3 - Okay
755
3 - Okay 7%
2 - Disappointing
84
2 - Disappointing 1%
1 - Terrible
39
1 - Terrible 0%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

We only stayed one night and didn't really go anywhere, but I did like the hotel's location near Vanderbilt. I knew there would be coffee and food within walking distance if needed.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

We visited both Vanderbilt and Belmont colleges, beautiful campuses making choosing a college more difficult.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

I'm just floored with this hotel.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Love all the new construction and all the city had to offer

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

We loved Broadway. Unfortunately our good time was spoiled by the rioting. Very disappointing. I know that's not the city's fault. The cops responded very well.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Nashville is expensive. Don't forget your wallet. The city is warm, friendly and full of fun and FULL of traffic! I lived in the Bay Area of California for many years and the Nashville traffic is worse.

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