Nashville travel guide

Nashville Tourism | Nashville Guide

You're Going to Love Nashville

The home of country music, Nashville, Tennessee is the place to come if you want to hear live music every night of the week. Head to atmospheric honky tonks like Robert’s Western, blues bars like Bourbon Street Blues & Boogie Bar, or to the Grand Ole Opry itself, where legends like Merle Haggard and Patsy Cline once played.

The food is great too. Dine on southern fried chicken at Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, try a slug of bourbon at Whiskey Kitchen, or explore the city’s growing craft beer scene at Craft Brewed.

Head to beautiful plantations like the Hermitage for a taste of antebellum life, stroll around Centennial Park with its replica of the Parthenon, or take the kids to Nashville Zoo at Grassmere.

Whether you want a music-packed trip, a family vacation, or a week of fine dining, Nashville delivers.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Nashville

1. Country Music

The Grand Ole Opry is country music’s most important venue, and it’s still a wonderful place to catch the latest acts. But there are smaller bars too totake in great country music, like Robert’s Western World, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, Legend’s Corner, and Layla’s

2. Food

Local specialties include smoking hot chicken (try the menu at Prince's Hot Chicken Shack), meat and three (Arnold’s Country Kitchen is the place to go), andbiscuits, both in savory and sweet varieties.

3. History

You can visit elegant pre-Civil War plantations like the Hermitage, which was the home of President Andrew Jackson. Head to the Belle Meade Plantation forthe best museum of southern history and tours that include free wine tasting.

4. Festivals

Nashville isn’t all about the Opry and honky tonks. There are also plenty of outdoor festivals like the July 4th fireworks, June’s CMA Music Festival, andthe Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival in nearby Manchester.

5. Elvis

While Elvis made his home in Memphis, he spent years in Nashville building his career. Visit RCA Studio B where he recorded 150 tracks or pick up copies ofElvis posters at Hatch Show Print.

1. Country Music

The Grand Ole Opry is country music’s most important venue, and it’s still a wonderful place to catch the latest acts. But there are smaller bars too totake in great country music, like Robert’s Western World, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, Legend’s Corner, and Layla’s

2. Food

Local specialties include smoking hot chicken (try the menu at Prince's Hot Chicken Shack), meat and three (Arnold’s Country Kitchen is the place to go), andbiscuits, both in savory and sweet varieties.

3. History

You can visit elegant pre-Civil War plantations like the Hermitage, which was the home of President Andrew Jackson. Head to the Belle Meade Plantation forthe best museum of southern history and tours that include free wine tasting.

4. Festivals

Nashville isn’t all about the Opry and honky tonks. There are also plenty of outdoor festivals like the July 4th fireworks, June’s CMA Music Festival, andthe Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival in nearby Manchester.

5. Elvis

While Elvis made his home in Memphis, he spent years in Nashville building his career. Visit RCA Studio B where he recorded 150 tracks or pick up copies ofElvis posters at Hatch Show Print.

What to do in Nashville

1. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: Explore the Musical Heritage

Both country music fans and those new to the genre will have plenty to discover in the world-renowned Country Music Hall of Fame. Housing incredible artifacts and mementos from legends including Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash, the museum is a music lover's dream. Rotating exhibits take turns illuminating the lives and discographies of some of America's finest musicians. Meanwhile, the stunning Hall of Fame Rotunda honors those who've been granted membership into these hallowed halls.

2. Parthenon: It's All Greek in Tennessee

There's only one place in the world where you can visit the Parthenon - but if you can't make it to Athens, there's no need to worry. Nashville's got a full-scale replica. The massive structure houses an art museum in the middle of beautiful Centennial Park. A mighty statue of Athena graces the museum's heart. Meanwhile, summer brings performances of classic Greek plays to the front steps.

3. Grand Ole Opry: Visit the Home of American Music

For nearly 100 years, country music's finest have been bringing hundreds of fans into the Grand Ole Opry. Today, you can see living legends take the stage, or you can tour backstage yourself. Everyone from Garth Brooks to Carrie Underwood have listed the Grand Ole Opry as one of the finest performance venues in the world, so it's sure to be worth your while. The Opry hosts performance just about every other day, and it's worth checking to see what names are in town during your visit to Nashville.

4. Tennessee State Capitol: Take in the History

Designated as a National Historic Landmark, the State Capitol is a beautiful example of Greek Revival architecture. Unique in its design, the capitol is recognized by the American Society of Civil Engineers as a truly innovative piece of architecture. The grounds are graced by statues of famous Tennesseans including Presidents Andrew Jackson and Andrew Johnson. Guided tours are available for those looking to dig deep into the history of the state and the place.

5. Midtown / West End / Music Row: Stroll Down the Street Where Music Happens

Nashville's Midtown and Music Row are renowned for being some of the world's music hotspots. Walk down the street and you'll stroll past the places where famous artists like Chet Atkins and Roy Acuff recorded their hits. The quiet and quaint architecture of the place belies its rollicking underbelly -- nighttime brings life to bars and restaurants, many of which host everything from country to blues groups.

1. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: Explore the Musical Heritage

Both country music fans and those new to the genre will have plenty to discover in the world-renowned Country Music Hall of Fame. Housing incredible artifacts and mementos from legends including Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash, the museum is a music lover's dream. Rotating exhibits take turns illuminating the lives and discographies of some of America's finest musicians. Meanwhile, the stunning Hall of Fame Rotunda honors those who've been granted membership into these hallowed halls.

2. Parthenon: It's All Greek in Tennessee

There's only one place in the world where you can visit the Parthenon - but if you can't make it to Athens, there's no need to worry. Nashville's got a full-scale replica. The massive structure houses an art museum in the middle of beautiful Centennial Park. A mighty statue of Athena graces the museum's heart. Meanwhile, summer brings performances of classic Greek plays to the front steps.

3. Grand Ole Opry: Visit the Home of American Music

For nearly 100 years, country music's finest have been bringing hundreds of fans into the Grand Ole Opry. Today, you can see living legends take the stage, or you can tour backstage yourself. Everyone from Garth Brooks to Carrie Underwood have listed the Grand Ole Opry as one of the finest performance venues in the world, so it's sure to be worth your while. The Opry hosts performance just about every other day, and it's worth checking to see what names are in town during your visit to Nashville.

4. Tennessee State Capitol: Take in the History

Designated as a National Historic Landmark, the State Capitol is a beautiful example of Greek Revival architecture. Unique in its design, the capitol is recognized by the American Society of Civil Engineers as a truly innovative piece of architecture. The grounds are graced by statues of famous Tennesseans including Presidents Andrew Jackson and Andrew Johnson. Guided tours are available for those looking to dig deep into the history of the state and the place.

5. Midtown / West End / Music Row: Stroll Down the Street Where Music Happens

Nashville's Midtown and Music Row are renowned for being some of the world's music hotspots. Walk down the street and you'll stroll past the places where famous artists like Chet Atkins and Roy Acuff recorded their hits. The quiet and quaint architecture of the place belies its rollicking underbelly -- nighttime brings life to bars and restaurants, many of which host everything from country to blues groups.

1. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: Explore the Musical Heritage

Both country music fans and those new to the genre will have plenty to discover in the world-renowned Country Music Hall of Fame. Housing incredible artifacts and mementos from legends including Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash, the museum is a music lover's dream. Rotating exhibits take turns illuminating the lives and discographies of some of America's finest musicians. Meanwhile, the stunning Hall of Fame Rotunda honors those who've been granted membership into these hallowed halls.

2. Parthenon: It's All Greek in Tennessee

There's only one place in the world where you can visit the Parthenon - but if you can't make it to Athens, there's no need to worry. Nashville's got a full-scale replica. The massive structure houses an art museum in the middle of beautiful Centennial Park. A mighty statue of Athena graces the museum's heart. Meanwhile, summer brings performances of classic Greek plays to the front steps.

3. Grand Ole Opry: Visit the Home of American Music

For nearly 100 years, country music's finest have been bringing hundreds of fans into the Grand Ole Opry. Today, you can see living legends take the stage, or you can tour backstage yourself. Everyone from Garth Brooks to Carrie Underwood have listed the Grand Ole Opry as one of the finest performance venues in the world, so it's sure to be worth your while. The Opry hosts performance just about every other day, and it's worth checking to see what names are in town during your visit to Nashville.

4. Tennessee State Capitol: Take in the History

Designated as a National Historic Landmark, the State Capitol is a beautiful example of Greek Revival architecture. Unique in its design, the capitol is recognized by the American Society of Civil Engineers as a truly innovative piece of architecture. The grounds are graced by statues of famous Tennesseans including Presidents Andrew Jackson and Andrew Johnson. Guided tours are available for those looking to dig deep into the history of the state and the place.

5. Midtown / West End / Music Row: Stroll Down the Street Where Music Happens

Nashville's Midtown and Music Row are renowned for being some of the world's music hotspots. Walk down the street and you'll stroll past the places where famous artists like Chet Atkins and Roy Acuff recorded their hits. The quiet and quaint architecture of the place belies its rollicking underbelly -- nighttime brings life to bars and restaurants, many of which host everything from country to blues groups.

Where to Eat in Nashville

For the best southern fried chicken in Nashville, head to Hattie B’s in Midtown. A broader southern soul food selection is available at Arnold’s CountryKitchen, Lockeland Table is a little more experimental (but still offers traditional American fare), while Bro’s Cajun Cuisine is an excellent seafoodrestaurant.

When to visit Nashville

Nashville in January
Estimated hotel price
$124
1 night at 3-star hotel
Nashville in January
Estimated hotel price
$124
1 night at 3-star hotel

The best time to visit Nashville is between May and July, when the temperatures are high, but not too hot, and many of the major music festivals take place.Winter is a cheaper time to visit and the honky tonks will still be buzzing, while early spring and fall are great times to enjoy the plantations withoutlarge crowds.

Data provided by weatherbase
Temperatures
Temperatures
Data provided by weatherbase

How to Get to Nashville

Plane

Flights to Nashville International Airport are the simplest way to visit Nashville. To get into town from the airport, take a shuttle bus provided by JarmonTransportation or pre-arrange a taxi or limo with one of the many companies present at the airport. Expect to pay around $30 for a taxi to downtowndestinations.

Train

If you want to take the train, the nearest station is in Memphis, which is linked to New Orleans and Chicago via the City of New Orleans service.

Car

I-40 passes through Nashville, linking the city with destinations to the east (like Philadelphia or New York) and the west (like Memphis). I-65 also passesthrough Nashville, connecting it to northern and southern destinations, so the city is fairly easy to reach by car.

Bus

The Greyhound stop is at 1030 Charlotte Ave and the company provides connections to most major American cities. Megabus also run services to Nashville fromChicago and regional cities like Knoxville, and their buses stop on Commerce St.

Plane

Flights to Nashville International Airport are the simplest way to visit Nashville. To get into town from the airport, take a shuttle bus provided by JarmonTransportation or pre-arrange a taxi or limo with one of the many companies present at the airport. Expect to pay around $30 for a taxi to downtowndestinations.

Train

If you want to take the train, the nearest station is in Memphis, which is linked to New Orleans and Chicago via the City of New Orleans service.

Car

I-40 passes through Nashville, linking the city with destinations to the east (like Philadelphia or New York) and the west (like Memphis). I-65 also passesthrough Nashville, connecting it to northern and southern destinations, so the city is fairly easy to reach by car.

Bus

The Greyhound stop is at 1030 Charlotte Ave and the company provides connections to most major American cities. Megabus also run services to Nashville fromChicago and regional cities like Knoxville, and their buses stop on Commerce St.

Airports near Nashville

Airlines serving Nashville

Lufthansa
Good (4,492 reviews)
KLM
Good (824 reviews)
British Airways
Good (4,284 reviews)
Delta
Good (4,612 reviews)
Turkish Airlines
Good (2,253 reviews)
Air France
Good (974 reviews)
Iberia
Good (1,534 reviews)
United Airlines
Good (4,849 reviews)
Emirates
Excellent (2,108 reviews)
Qatar Airways
Good (2,469 reviews)
Air Canada
Good (5,461 reviews)
Brussels Airlines
Good (219 reviews)
Scandinavian Airlines
Good (801 reviews)
Finnair
Good (898 reviews)
TAP AIR PORTUGAL
Good (1,116 reviews)
Alaska Airlines
Good (5,281 reviews)
Etihad Airways
Good (813 reviews)
JetBlue
Good (1,636 reviews)
Spirit Airlines
Good (4,450 reviews)
Aer Lingus
Good (762 reviews)
Show more

Where to stay in Nashville

Opryland – As the name suggests, Opryland is clustered around the Grand Ole Opry. It’s also the best place to stay if you intend to shop thanks to Opry Mills, whereyou’ll find major retailers like H&M and Ralph Lauren. There are plenty of musical attractions in the area. Visit the Willie Nelson Museum, take in an Elvistribute act and round everything off with a southern feast at Nashville Palace.

Popular Districts

Downtown – The business core of the city, Downtown hosts the city’s artistic institutions, including the Frist Center for the Visual Arts, while major touring actsusually find space for a concert at the Bridgestone Arena. Check out Broadway as well, home to the city’s best honky tonks, including Tootsie’s andLayla’s.

Midtown – Known for its restaurants, Midtown is a safe area that has plenty of hotels. Check out the seafood specialties at South Street Original Crab Shack and stayfor the rock and roll shows or go up-market with the gourmet Italian food at Giovanni Ristorante. Vanderbilt University is next door too, and it’s worthtaking a walk on campus to see its 19th century architecture and sculpture gardens.

Downtown – The business core of the city, Downtown hosts the city’s artistic institutions, including the Frist Center for the Visual Arts, while major touring actsusually find space for a concert at the Bridgestone Arena. Check out Broadway as well, home to the city’s best honky tonks, including Tootsie’s andLayla’s.
Midtown – Known for its restaurants, Midtown is a safe area that has plenty of hotels. Check out the seafood specialties at South Street Original Crab Shack and stayfor the rock and roll shows or go up-market with the gourmet Italian food at Giovanni Ristorante. Vanderbilt University is next door too, and it’s worthtaking a walk on campus to see its 19th century architecture and sculpture gardens.
Most popular hotel in Nashville by neighbourhood

Where to stay in popular areas of Nashville

Most booked hotels in Nashville

Cambria Hotel Nashville Downtown
4 stars
Excellent (9, Excellent reviews)
$432+
Omni Nashville Hotel
4 stars
Excellent (8.7, Excellent reviews)
$539+
Hilton Brentwood/Nashville Suites
3 stars
Excellent (8.6, Excellent reviews)
$259+
Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center
4 stars
Excellent (8.5, Excellent reviews)
$571+
Sheraton Music City Nashville Airport
4 stars
Excellent (8.3, Excellent reviews)
$289+
Club - Hotel Nashville Inn & Suites
3 stars
Excellent (8.2, Excellent reviews)
$217+

How to Get Around Nashville

Public Transportation

Nashville MTA runs an efficient bus network that serves the whole city center. Basic fares are low at $1.70 for a single journey, and you can save money with$5.25 day passes. Buses tend to finish around 5 p.m., so taxis might be better if you go out in the evening.

Taxis

Basic taxi fares are $3 for the pick-up, then $2 for every additional mile and $1 for each extra passenger. Uber is cheaper, with a base fare of $1 and then$0.93 per subsequent mile.

Car

Major car rental agencies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis are present in the city. Expect to pay around $30 per day for a normal sized vehicle. Parkingcosts around $6 per hour in surface lots and over $10 in most garages, although many locations have cheaper rates after 5 p.m.

Public Transportation

Nashville MTA runs an efficient bus network that serves the whole city center. Basic fares are low at $1.70 for a single journey, and you can save money with$5.25 day passes. Buses tend to finish around 5 p.m., so taxis might be better if you go out in the evening.

Taxis

Basic taxi fares are $3 for the pick-up, then $2 for every additional mile and $1 for each extra passenger. Uber is cheaper, with a base fare of $1 and then$0.93 per subsequent mile.

Car

Major car rental agencies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis are present in the city. Expect to pay around $30 per day for a normal sized vehicle. Parkingcosts around $6 per hour in surface lots and over $10 in most garages, although many locations have cheaper rates after 5 p.m.

The Cost of Living in Nashville

Shopping Streets

Opry Mills is a massive outlet mall filled with big names, including H&M, Coach, and Kate Spade. Gruhn Guitars on 8th Avenue is the place to look for musicalinstruments, while Imogen & Willie in 12South is a popular custom denim boutique. Green Hills is another district that’s full of high-end clothing stores,including Dillard’s and Macy’s.

Groceries and Other

Nashville isn’t an expensive city. 12 eggs cost around $2.40 while a bottle of wine is $14. The best places to shop for groceries are supermarkets likePublix, Kmart, Safeway, Wal-Mart, and H.G. Hill and there are also Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s outlets in the center of town.

Cheap meal
$18.29
A pair of jeans
$62.66
Single public transport ticket
$2.60
Cappuccino
$6.45