Nashville, Tennessee, often referred to as “Music City, USA,” is a hub for country music lovers and those interested in America’s rich musical history.
However, beyond its iconic recording studios and live performances, the city has A LOT to offer from a range of attractions, to historical sites to unique culinary experiences.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a comprehensive 48-hour itinerary, ensuring you make the most of your weekend in Nashville.
Arriving in Nashville – Flying or Driving
If you’re flying into Nashville the airport is VERY close (without traffic, a 10-15 minute drive) to Downtown. Rates can be under $20 if during non-surge times.
If ride shares are on surge and if you’re choosing a taxi, make sure you are getting the set, flat rate ($25 to Downtown or Opryland areas).
Note: There is a TON of construction happening at the airport.
Helpful tip: ANYTIME you are taking a taxi make sure you understand the rate before you start your trip. On one occasion, I got into a taxi to take a 6 minute ride from Downtown to my hotel and asked the driver to start the meter before we left. He refused and said it was a flat rate of $30. WHAT?! I got out and walked.
If you’re driving in, staying Downtown can come with higher parking prices. On my first half dozen trips, I flew in and stayed Downtown or in The Gulch area, but given I had a car this time, I chose to stay in Mid Town. With parking at $30/night it was reasonable given it was in a secure, gated garage.
Want to know where I stayed? It was the PlaceMakr Music Row. See the section about “Where to Stay” for tips on where to book accommodations.
Kick Off Your Nashville Adventure with DRINKS
Drop your bags at your hotel before heading out to explore and the options for drinks and happy hours are endless.
For the cocktail lover
I loved getting drinks at The Patterson House. If you’re in this area, it’s a must.
You can expect a speakeasy-like atmosphere with crafted cocktails, fantastic serve and a few small bite dishes that are AMAZING. The smoked chicken wings should NOT be missed and if you like steak tartare, it’s excellent. You might miss the door if you’re strolling down the street, it seems like it’s a deserted building, but it’s not.
For the casual drinker
If you’re looking for something more casual and fun, head over to 16-Bit Bar+Arcade you’ll find free old school arcade games, inexpensive drinks and an energetic atmosphere. There is “miniature bowling” in the back and free skeeball upstairs.
For a sophisticated drink in a sophisticated or modern space
There are some FANTASTIC hotels in Nashville and they come with fantastic hotel bars.
I loved the sleek bar (with an outdoor space) at Thistle and Rye. It’s on the third floor of the Conrad Nashville and if you don’t come late night (like I did), you’ll find a fantastic food line up (of bao buns are more). Do come here for a perfectly made martini.
Another hotel bar I loved, the bar the Virgin Hotel Nashville. If you know anything about me, you’ll know I LOVE VIRGIN VOYAGES (read all the blog posts about that here), and their hotels are another thing I love.
You have two options here – the rooftop pool and bar (which has a small view of the city), but I preferred the (air conditioned) bar adjacent to the lobby – Commons Club.
You’ll get all the modern vibes, an option for an outdoor space and a fantastic drink list (and they serve Argyle champagne by the glass. That’s hard to find!). They also have a proper happy hour menu (which at the time I went had $10 aperol spritz, $2.50 oysters and beer/wine specials, etc).
Some suggestions I had researched, but didn’t partake
A few places on my radar that I didn’t get a chance to check out:
- Red Phone Booth – this spot looked like a fun upscale cocktail place with 1920s vibes, a cigar bar and also serving food.
- One More Cocktail Club – I tried SO hard to find this spot. It’s INSIDE of the Assembly Food Hall (which in itself, should NOT be missed). This food hall is HUGE! Checkout the full lineup, and attempt to find the cocktail club, because it looks awesome for drinks.
From Casual to Fancy, Grab Dinner in Nashville
One of my favorite things about Nashville are the amazing dining options. There are many things about Nashville that remind me of Vegas, and this is one of them – many top chefs will open a restaurant here.
The takeaway? If you want great food, you’re guaranteed going to find it. And if you’re willing to pay for it, you’ll get EXCELLENT food.
Below is a list of places that were suggested to me, or I ate at, or I had researched…
Casual / inexpensive dinner options
- Assembly Food Hall – Awesome because it’s right at the entrance to the Honky Tonks so you’re right in downtown. There are a MILLION options in here (with some upscale options, too). My favorite part? There are bars throughout that have a nicer ambiance to sit at and you can grab your food and sit at the bar to have a martini while you dine.
- Love Peace & Pho – a great option if you’re going to Zanies for a comedy show (across the street). A modern atmosphere with a fantastic family run Vietnamese restaurant. The pho is outstanding.
- Hattie B’s Chicken – if you’re wondering what Nashville is known for (besides the amazing music and a million other things) – it’s (also) the hot chicken. Expect many locations of Hattie B’s and expect.. hot chicken (and it’s perfect if you love waiting in long lines.. just sayin’).
Fancier and Expensive Nashville Dinner Options
- Marsh House – If you like seafood, come here.
- Liberty Common – Every bartender we talked to that we asked for a dinner rec suggested this spot. American restaurant done well.
- Kid Rock’s Big Ass Honky Tonk – If you come here for dinner, it’s not cheap, it’s a scene, and well, it’s popular. We wanted to check it out, but changed our mind once we saw the insane line to get in. If you want to do it, make a reservation and don’t drop in.
- Halls Chophouse– A steakhouse with locations in other cities, tbh, the brunch menu looked pretty fire.
Dance the Night Away at the Honky Tonks
As you walk down Honky Tonk Highway, what’s neat is the street is closed off to cars on the weekends. So like Bourbon Street, you can freely walk around to watch the (tbh) total madness.
Insider tip: I got this tip from a bartender and I LOVE this tip. The honky tonks open early, like 11am early. And the way he puts it “it’s the SAME experience whether you go during the day or whether you go at night. It’s just.. at night, it’s a sh*t show”
This is beyond accurate. If you’re ready and willing to embrace (and why not just ‘join ’em’), join the absolute madness that is a weekend night at Nashville’s honky tonks.
The spot that every person recommended I check out (and I’ve been there in the past) is Robert’s World. My advice for you – walk the honky tonks and just go to the one that’s calling your name.
For me, I can only take so much country music, so I did two things:
- I took the bartender’s advice and I went early. I went 4pm on a Monday and it was PERFECT. Tons of music, but options for seating and easily getting a drink and listening to fantastic talent.
- I did the honky tonks on a Saturday night anyway. I immediately took 2 ibuprofen (everyone else’s intoxication gave ME the spins) and then went… well, read on for this secret…
DON’T Dance the Night Away at the Honky Tonks
Dance elsewhere. I won’t lie, it’s fun to listen to for a bit, but country music is not my thing.
Head over to Printer’s Alley for some hidden gems including The All Saints store.
Wait, isn’t that a clothing store?
It is, but it’s also the “front” to the nightclub that’s inside the Dream Hotel. Show your ID to the bouncer and head in (without any entry fees) through the hidden door to the night club on the other side.
Skip all the country music and dance the night away to Top 40, hip hop and dance music. You’ll find reasonable $16 drinks (for a Grey Goose soda) at the bar. What’s the name of this bar? It’s called Dirty Little Secret and it’s located inside the Dream Hotel.
Another option? Dance the night away to a live cover band playing sing-a-long hits at Bourbon Street Blues. There was a very long line to get in (so I never got in), but I stood in the alley for awhile listening and enjoying the music. If you’ve ever been to NYC, it reminds me of one of my fave spots (Cafe Wha).
After all is said and done and you need something to “soak up the alcohol”, grab a hot dog at Daddy’s Dogs. Oh man, they’re REALLY good and you’ll also find pop up tents all over the Downtown Area if you’re not in Printer’s Alley.
Start Your Morning with Coffee, Brunch, or Drag Brunch
Your night will generally end at 1am or 3am (depending on which type of an establishment you’re at and what night of the week you’re out at), so if a morning DOES exist in your schedule (and you don’t sleep till noon).. there are a few ways to gently or aggressively start your day.
Only if you’re in the area, head to Just Love Coffee. They have locations in other cities as well, but their Breve Latte is my fave item on the menu (think latte, but with half and half .. so fatty and awesome).
If you’re willing to take a small trek and be in a more local part of town, 12 South is freakin cute AF. The Belmont-Hillsboro area is lined with cute shops, a cereal bar, murals, and so many instgrammable moments you’ll wish you weren’t wearing your PJs with no make up and your darkest sunglasses on.
I was trying to have brunch at The Butter Milk Ranch, but the wait was 45 minutes (they don’t take reservations).
There are an endless number of spots for brunch. A few others I love:
- Milk and Honey in The Gulch
- Biscuit Love in The Gulch
- Husk (Downtown, but weekends only for brunch)
Any of these options can be made boozy, but why not get aggressive and go to a drag brunch show?
Suzy Wong’s is a TON of fun. You can expect at $32 ticket that includes shared brunch appetizers and your own entree, inexpensive drinks (hello $8 for 187ml prosecco splits) and about an hour-long drag show that is SO much fun. Reservations are a must!
Spend Your Afternoon with Entertainment
I went to an afternoon comedy show at Zanies and had a fantastic time. It’s an easy uber ride away from Downtown Nashville or there is plenty of free parking in the area.
It’s a great setup inside for watching a show (not too big and not too small) and there are tons of great food and drink options on the (2-item minimum per person per show) menu.
Another comedy club to consider is Third Coast Comedy Club.
There is live music happening ALL OVER Nashville (literally all the time) so there is no shortage of that, or head back to the Honky Tonks for guaranteed tunes.
If you’re going to spend your evening at the Grand Ole Opry (make sure to buy your show tickets in advance), then spend your afternoon at a proper two-step bar at the Nashville Palace.
Get On a Party Bus
Another thing to consider? A party bus. Or a party wagon. Or a party fire truck. There is an endless number of “type of vehicles”, but they are EVERYWHERE in Nashville.
The upside? Some of them are BYO and some of them sell booze and in general, it’s a fun time with screaming people with music blasting.
The downside? It doesn’t actually stop. So you it’s great if you’re with a large group, but might be a little lackluster if you’re just with a few others.
Quick tip!
The tours mentioned in this article plus MANY MORE that are top traveler ranked can be found by clicking the button below.
It’s important to book ones with top traveler reviews and are easily refundable if travel plans change.
Sleep in, skip the afternoon, then go watch a show
No judgement if you do nothing. Nashville is a late night kind of place and I spent a few hours just chilling out at the pool in prep for a late night out.
My “late start day” started with an evening show at The Bridgestone Arena. There are SO many amazing artists that come through Nashville, make sure you’re checking the lineup to see who might be in town while you’re there (I watched Lil Baby perform).
My favorite part about Bridgestone arena? It’s right in the middle of everything, going to a show here is great because you’re in the heart of Downtown Nashville.
Then rinse and repeat with the same late night (and hot dog) line-up as the previous night.
Explore Further in Nashville
- Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: Immerse yourself in the history and sounds of country music.
- The Parthenon: Located in Centennial Park, it’s a full-scale replica of the Parthenon in Athens, Greece, and houses an art museum.
- Ryman Auditorium: Formerly the Grand Ole Opry House, it’s a premier music venue known as the “Mother Church of Country Music.”
- Cheekwood Estate & Gardens: A beautiful botanical garden and art museum set in a historic mansion.
- Nashville Zoo at Grassmere: A family-friendly destination featuring various animals and interactive exhibits.
- Belmont Mansion: A historic antebellum home with period furnishings and stories of the past.
- Radnor Lake State Park: A serene spot for hiking, bird-watching, and enjoying nature.
- Bluebird Cafe: Known for its intimate performances and as a launching pad for songwriters.
- Frist Art Museum: Showcases rotating visual art exhibitions from local, national, and international sources.
- Grand Ole Opry: While the Ryman was its former home, the Grand Ole Opry House now hosts this iconic music show. Experience live country music performances from both legends and upcoming artists.
- Adventure Science Center: An interactive museum for all ages, focusing on science, technology, and health.
- Historic RCA Studio B: Dubbed the “Home of 1,000 Hits,” this recording studio offers insights into Nashville’s music history.
One thing I did (aside from play pickleball at Music City Pickleball), I explored Franklin, Tennessee. It’s just a 20 minute drive from Nashville and takes you to a totally different vibe.
I loved exploring the Factory at Franklin. It advertises itself as a “shopping mall”, but it’s not. It’s like an old factory building meets food hall meets eclectic shops. It’s neat. Go for coffee, then a milkshake, then some donuts, then some cool hand made crafts (in that order).
8 Top Nashville FAQs
Nashville, known as the “Music City,” often piques the interest of visitors with its rich history, vibrant music scene, and southern charm. Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Nashville…
1. What is Nashville most known for?
Nashville is renowned as the country music capital of the world, home to the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and many legendary recording studios.
2. When is the best time to visit Nashville?
While Nashville is a year-round destination, many prefer spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) due to pleasant weather. However, the city hosts events throughout the year.
If you’re curious about the weather, Nashville has has a humid subtropical climate with distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid with occasional thunderstorms, while winters are mild with rare snowfall. Spring and fall bring mild temperatures and vibrant foliage. Due to its central location, Nashville is sometimes prone to severe weather, including tornadoes.
3. Where can I listen to live music in Nashville?
Beyond the famous Grand Ole Opry, you can find live music in many venues on Broadway, especially in honky-tonk bars, and throughout the city in various establishments.
One additional venue I loved? The Analog. It’s such a cool looking eclectic venue inside the Hutton Hotel.
4. How do I get around Nashville?
While downtown is walkable, you might consider renting a car, using ride-sharing services, or utilizing the city’s public transportation to explore more of Nashville.
Traffic can be EXTREMELY congested in the Downtown area, often times a cab will have a flat rate of $30 even if you’re just going a short 6 minute drive. Even with ride share, sometimes it can take a LONG time for pickup (my friend took over 40 minutes to meet me at a nightclub when she was just a 5 minute drive away).
A very popular thing in Nashville? Scooters. They’re all over town, have at it!
5. Where should I stay in Nashville?
Depending on your preference, you can stay downtown for proximity to nightlife, in the trendy Gulch area, or in neighborhoods like East Nashville for a more local experience.
For more options on where to stay – scroll around the map below!
6. What foods is Nashville known for?
Nashville is famous for its hot chicken, barbecue, and southern comfort foods. There are also a growing number of gourmet and fusion restaurants in the city.
7. Is Nashville family-friendly?
- Absolutely! Beyond the nightlife, Nashville offers attractions like the Nashville Zoo, Adventure Science Center, and various parks and green spaces suitable for families. I don’t recommend taking your kid honky tonking unless you also love taking your kid to get hammed with you at the bar in Wisconsin (which is legal!).
8. How many days should I spend in Nashville?
While a weekend can cover many highlights, spending 3-5 days allows a more relaxed exploration of the city’s music, culture, and culinary delights. Personally on this trip, I spent 4 nights (which allowed me a day to get in, 3 full days and a day to depart. I was never bored).
Bottom Line
Nashville is a spot everyone should visit. The Honky Tonks and hot chicken are unique and the city has a vibe that is really unique. Many don’t know that lots of large companies (the Googles, the Facebooks the blah blah blah) have all setup shop here and it’s made the city grow VERY fast with many awesome modern and upscale experiences.
Yet it’s amidst a backdrop of cowboy boots and a sea of sequined cowboy hats and drunkards (and it’s FANTASTIC).
Whether you’re coming for the music, the food, the entertainment or simply to people watch, Nashville will keep you entertained.