Nashville Travel Guide: The Complete Experience
Renowned for its country music scene, Nashville has transformed into a captivating hub for food, culture, and shopping, solidifying its reputation as a must-visit destination. The city brims with exceptional live music venues, historic landmarks, and culinary delights, offering a unique blend of traditional charm and modern sophistication.
Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, for a week or weekend, bookmark this guide for your Nashville itinerary. From neighborhoods and hotels to restaurants and activities, here are the best things to do in Nashville for a truly authentic experience.
- Downtown: The heart of Music City, Downtown Nashville is buzzing with live music, sporting events, and rooftop bars.
- Sobro: South of Broadway, Sobro is home to some of Nashville's main attractions, including the Country Music Hall of Fame and Bridgestone Arena.
- The Gulch: Once an old railway terminal turned trendy, The Gulch is now a hip neighborhood with upscale restaurants and vibrant nightlife.
- Edgehill: A diverse, artistic neighborhood with boutique shops, art galleries, and a community garden.
- Wedgewood-Houston: A rapidly growing neighborhood, home to artists and musicians, with a collection of new restaurants, breweries, and art galleries.
- Germantown: Known for its charming, historic architecture and delicious eateries, Germantown is an inviting neighborhood with a European flair.
- East Nashville: This vibrant and diverse neighborhood is popular for its eclectic collection of boutiques, bars, and restaurants.
- South Nashville: South Nashville is a multicultural town with a plethora of dining options that reflect its diverse community.
- 12 South: A trendy area known for its shopping and dining scene. 12 South is teeming with unique boutiques, coffee houses, and award-winning restaurants.
- Belmont: Home to Belmont University, this neighborhood also boasts beautifully landscaped boulevards and a bustling music scene.
- Music Row: The epicenter of Nashville's country music industry, featuring numerous recording studios, record label offices, and music licensing firms.
- Berry Hill: Known for its recording studios, Berry Hill is a small but thriving neighborhood with a creative vibe.
- Sylvan Park: A residential neighborhood loved for its local restaurant scene, golf course, and biking trail.
- Green Hills: Known for its high-end shopping, Green Hills is an upscale neighborhood with exclusive boutiques and shopping centers.
- Belle Meade: An affluent neighborhood featuring large, luxurious homes and the historic Belle Meade Plantation.
- West End: A bustling area with Centennial Park and The Parthenon as notable landmarks.
- Melrose: A neighborhood that blends old and new with a mix of vintage shops and modern breweries.
- Capitol View: A new urban community with retail and office space, parks, and an open-air market.
- Demonbreun: A popular nightlife area with a row of rooftop bars, restaurants, and music venues.
- Elliston Place: Nicknamed "Rock Block," this area is a hub for music venues and eateries.
- Hutton Hotel - A modern, eco-friendly hotel with a West End Kitchen & Bar and luxury spa.
- The Hermitage Hotel - Known for its grandeur and southern charm, this historic hotel is a Nashville icon.
- Conrad Nashville - A luxury hotel offering a sophisticated urban retreat in the heart of Music City.
- Fairlane Hotel - An ultra-modern boutique hotel with mid-century designs, located in the heart of downtown Nashville.
- Soho House Nashville - An exclusive members-only club offering unique rooms, a rooftop pool, and a spa.
- The Joseph: - A luxury hotel in Downtown Nashville that combines southern hospitality with modern, artistic flair.
- Urban Cowboy B&B - A bohemian bed-and-breakfast in East Nashville with a communal ethos.
- 1 Hotel Nashville - An eco-conscious, pet-friendly hotel with a focus on sustainability, located on the historic Printer’s Alley.
- Noelle - An historic hotel with a boutique feel, boasting an on-site bakery and rooftop bar.
- Four Seasons Nashville - A high-end hotel known for its top-tier service and luxury accommodations.
- Germantown Inn - A quaint, historic inn located in Nashville's oldest neighborhood.
- Thompson Nashville - A trendy hotel in the Gulch neighborhood with a rooftop bar offering panoramic city views.
- Omni Hotel Nashville - A large hotel offering modern comfort, a rooftop pool, and southern-style dining.
- Dream Nashville - An art deco boutique hotel set in downtown Nashville, Dream Nashville offers plush rooms and six dining and nightlife venues.
BREAKFAST
- Roze Pony: An eclectic Nashville eatery known for its exotic brunch offerings, chic atmosphere, and locally sourced ingredients.
- Five Daughters Bakery - Famous for their 100-layer donut, Five Daughters Bakery also offers a variety of other sweet treats for a decadent breakfast.
- Proper Bagel - For those craving a New York-style bagel in the heart of the South, Proper Bagel serves up a variety of bagels and gourmet spreads.
- Milk & Honey - Offering a variety of artisanal foods, Milk & Honey is the place to go for a health-conscious, yet hearty, breakfast.
- Fido - A hip café serving a diverse menu of breakfast items, including vegan and gluten-free options.
- Monell's Dining and Catering - Known for its family-style dining and authentic southern breakfast fare, Monell's is a Nashville institution.
- Frothy Monkey - With its comfortable atmosphere and extensive breakfast menu, Frothy Monkey is a favorite among locals.
- Biscuit Love - Known for their fluffy, homemade biscuits and locally sourced ingredients, Biscuit Love is a must-visit for any breakfast enthusiast.
- Loveless Cafe - Famous for its locally sourced mouthwatering biscuits and country ham, Loveless Cafe provides a traditional southern breakfast experience.
- Pancake Pantry - As the name suggests, this spot offers a slew of unique pancake options, making it a hit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
WEEKEND BRUNCH
- Josephine - Known for their locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes, Josephine offers an exceptional brunch menu.
- Henrietta Red - With its airy, chic vibe and an emphasis on seafood, Henrietta Red provides a sophisticated brunch option.
- Pinewood Social - A trendy spot featuring a diverse menu and outdoor games, Pinewood Social is a lively place to brunch.
- Barcelona Wine Bar Nashville: Barcelona Wine Bar is renowned for its extensive wine list, charming setting, and authentic Spanish tapas.
- The Southern Steak & Oyster - This downtown eatery serves a unique blend of southern and seafood cuisine, making for a delectable brunch experience.
- Chauhan Ale & Masala House - This Indian fusion restaurant offers a flavorful, unique twist on the traditional brunch.
- Mockingbird - A modern diner serving up global fare, Mockingbird is known for its creative, comfort-food-inspired brunch options.
- Saint Anejo - Famous for its Mexican-inspired dishes and extensive tequila list, Saint Anejo is a flavorful and festive brunch spot.
- Butcher & Bee - With a menu that changes daily based on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Butcher & Bee offers a unique and delicious brunch.
- Sinema - Set in a historic movie theater, Sinema offers a luxurious brunch experience with its classic American cuisine and glamorous setting.
LUNCH
- Cafe Roze - This trendy spot offers a selection of health-conscious meals, including grain bowls, salads, and smoothies, ideal for a light and nutritious lunch.
- Epice - This Lebanese bistro offers a variety of flavorful, authentically Middle Eastern meals that are perfect for a lunchtime feast.
- Noshville - A traditional deli that offers a variety of sandwiches, soups, and salads, Noshville is a great option for a casual, hearty lunch.
- Bartaco - Offering a beach-inspired atmosphere and a variety of tacos, Bartaco provides a fun, laid-back brunch experience.
- Edley's Bar-B-Que - Known for its succulent smoked meats and comforting side dishes, Edley's provides a truly Southern BBQ lunch experience.
- Waldo's Chicken & Beer - Famous for its fried chicken and local beers, Waldo's offers a laid-back atmosphere for a fun and fulfilling lunch.
- Little Hat's Italian Market - A hidden gem in Nashville, Little Hat's Italian Market features a delectable array of Italian favorites. With its fresh, homemade pasta, artisanal cheeses, and selection of Italian wines, this spot promises an authentic and memorable Italian lunch experience.
- True Food Kitchen - Offering a menu that caters to various dietary restrictions, True Food Kitchen is perfect for those seeking a healthy, yet satisfying, lunch.
- The Smiling Elephant - Renowned for its fresh and flavorful Thai cuisine, The Smiling Elephant promises a lunch that's both delightful and different.
- Vui's Kitchen - Vui's Kitchen is all about fresh, vibrant and absolutely delicious Vietnamese cuisine. With a menu jam-packed with healthy salads, spring rolls, bone broth pho, and banh mi, this establishment offers a flavorful and refreshing lunch option.
- Red Headed Stranger - A vibrant, casual spot that serves a variety of unique and flavorful tacos,.
- The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden - Famous for its gourmet burgers and extensive beer selection, The Pharmacy is an ideal spot for a relaxed, indulgent lunch.
- Five Points Pizza - Offering both New York style and Sicilian square pizzas, Five Points is a favorite among locals for its high-quality ingredients and hand-tossed dough.
- Hattie B's Hot Chicken - A visit to Nashville is incomplete without trying its famous hot chicken, and Hattie B’s is one of the best places to do just that.
- RH Cafe - Housed within the upscale RH retail store, the RH Cafe offers a unique dining experience. With a menu focused on American classics, guests can enjoy a delicious lunch in a sophisticated setting surrounded by luxury home furnishings.
DINNER
- Audrey - A refined dining experience with a menu that revolves around seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
- City House - Known for its innovative Southern cuisine, offering a rustic yet refined dining atmosphere.
- Two Ten Jack - A Japanese izakaya-style restaurant, serving up delicious ramen, sushi, and an assortment of small plates.
- O-Ku - Offers a unique take on traditional Japanese sushi and cuisine, tailored to the Nashville palate.
- Bastion - A casual, modern neighborhood bar with a small, carefully curated dinner menu.
- The Optimist - An upscale seafood restaurant known for its fresh, ocean-to-table approach.
- Bar Continental - A sophisticated dining spot that offers a stylish twist on classic American dishes.
- Santo - A modern, chic eatery offering a menu of European classics with a contemporary flair.
- Peninsula - Known for its Iberian-inspired menu, Peninsula transports you to the coasts of Spain and Portugal.
- June - June brings a fresh perspective on Appalachian cuisine to Nashville's dining scene, marrying traditional dishes with innovative techniques for a truly unique dinner experience.
- Noko - A hidden gem in East Nashville, Noko offers an innovative, wood-fired fusion of Japanese and Southern cuisine.
- Locust - Renowned for its farm-to-table approach, serving up locally-sourced modern American cuisine.
- Folk - Known for its artisanal pizza and relaxed, neighborhood atmosphere.
- Rolf & Daughters - This industrial-chic locale offers a Mediterranean-influenced menu and handcrafted cocktails.
- Husk Nashville - A Southern restaurant that tells a story through food, using only local ingredients to showcase regional cuisine.
- Moto - An Italian restaurant known for its modern interpretation of classic Italian dishes.
- Lockeland Table - A community-focused, neighborhood restaurant serving up high-quality, comfort food dishes.
- Adele’s - Known for its contemporary menu, comfortable atmosphere, and a rotating menu that highlights the season’s best local ingredients.
- The 404 Kitchen - Offers a modern take on classic European cuisine, served in an intimate and comfortable environment.
- Butchertown Hall - Known for its locally sourced ingredients, Texo-German barbecue, and brick-fired craft meats.
- 5th and Taylor - A restaurant that pays homage to the American family meal, inspired by Sunday dinners from the chef's childhood.
- Geist - Housed in a charming, 118-year-old blacksmith shop in Nashville’s historic Germantown neighborhood, Geist serves up seasonal, locally sourced food and drinks in a chic, yet cozy atmosphere.
- Il Forno Nashville - Offering a slice of Italy in the heart of Music City, Il Forno Nashville specializes in authentic, wood-fired pizzas.
- Lyra - A Middle Eastern restaurant inspired by the rich culinary traditions of the Levant region.
COFFEE
- Crema - A local favorite, Crema serves up sustainably sourced coffee in a relaxed, friendly environment.
- Barista Parlor - An artisanal coffee shop, known for its commitment to quality and sustainability, offering a variety of coffee beans from renowned roasters worldwide.
- Sump Coffee - Known for its minimalist aesthetic and serious approach to coffee, Sump Coffee offers a selection of single-origin beans brewed to perfection.
- Honest Coffee Roasters - This specialty coffee shop is known for its passion for ethical sourcing and quality brewing methods.
- Humphreys Street - A social enterprise coffee shop, Humphreys Street not only serves great coffee but also invests in the local youth community.
- Eighth and Roast - A specialty coffee shop and micro-roaster, Eighth and Roast is deeply committed to enhancing the coffee experience for Nashvillians.
- Bongo Java - Nashville's oldest coffee company, Bongo Java is a staple in the local coffee scene, known for its organic, fair-trade coffee.
- Dose - A cozy neighborhood coffee shop, Dose serves up expertly brewed coffee along with a selection of teas and a menu of fresh, locally sourced eats.
- Elegy Coffee - As one of the newer additions to Nashville's coffee scene, the minimalist Elegy Coffee is quickly becoming a local favorite. Renowned for its innovative brewing techniques and attention to detail, Elegy offers a selection of single-origin and blended coffees.
- Retrograde Coffee - This unique coffee shop brings a touch of vintage charm to the Nashville coffee scene, offering a diverse menu of ethically sourced, quality coffee.
- The Patterson House - A sophisticated and intimate speakeasy, renowned for its handcrafted cocktails and vintage decor, providing a unique ambiance of elegance and nostalgia.
- The Fox Bar and Cocktail Club - A cozy and chic bar offering an extensive menu of innovative cocktails, craft beers, and fine wines, accompanied by a rotating selection of small plates.
- Martha My Dear - This refined and elegant cocktail bar is known for its impeccably mixed concoctions and its welcoming, laid-back atmosphere.
- Attaboy - An intimate and rustic bar offering a unique experience where there are no menus; instead, expert bartenders create a bespoke cocktail tailored to each customer's preferences.
- The Local - Known for its friendly atmosphere, The Local is a favorite spot for music lovers, offering live performances from local musicians and a wide array of drinks.
- Diskin Cider - Nashville's first craft cidery, known for its locally sourced, fresh-pressed apples that are used to create a wide array of innovative, flavorful ciders in a modern-industrial taproom.
- Bearded Iris - Known for its unique and varied craft beers, Bearded Iris offers an array of brews highlighting different styles and flavor profiles—and a casual, welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors alike.
- Southern Grist Brewing Company - With a focus on sour, fruited, and other unique beers, it offers an ever-changing selection to pair with their lunch and dinner menus.
- Von Elrod's - A beer garden and sausage house located in the heart of Germantown, Von Elrod's offers a selection of hand-cranked sausages, Belgian-style fries, and an impressive array of beers on tap.
- Station Inn - A legendary venue in Nashville's bluegrass scene, Station Inn offers nightly live music, creating an authentic and intimate experience for music lovers.
- Acme Feed & Seed - A multi-level, modern-rustic venue offering a variety of experiences, from a seafood-focused restaurant to a bar with an extensive selection of local craft beers and live music.
- Jane’s Hideaway - A relatively new addition to Nashville's bar scene, Jane's Hideaway is a cozy, retro speakeasy serving classic cocktails and bar snacks amidst vintage-inspired decor.
- Robert’s Western World - A classic honky-tonk bar, this Nashville institution is known for its live country music, dancing, and lively, fun-loving atmosphere.
- Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge - A world-famous honky-tonk, Tootsie's has been serving up live music and cold beers for over 60 years, making it an iconic part of Nashville's music scene.
- Imogene + Willie - Specializing in denim, Imogene and Willie is a renowned shop known for its high-quality, locally-made jeans and a range of other apparel.
- Ranger Station - This unique shop offers hand-poured, premium soy wax candles in reusable cocktail glasses, enhancing the ambiance of any living space.
- FLWR Shop - A chic floral boutique offering beautifully crafted bouquets, along with a variety of plants and unique vessels.
- White’s Mercantile - A modern general store offering a variety of goods from kitchenware and home decor to clothing and accessories.
- Draper James A southern-inspired brand, founded by actress Reese Witherspoon, offering a range of women's clothing, accessories, and home decor items.
- Parnassus Books - An independent bookstore offering a vast selection of books, founded by bestselling author Ann Patchett and publishing veteran Karen Hayes.
- Keep Shop - Located in the Noelle hotel, Keep Shop offers a selection of items from local artisans, showcasing the best of Nashville’s creative community.
- Lemon Laine - A health and beauty shop offering a curated assortment of natural wellness products, skincare, and makeup.
- Consider the Wildflowers - A jewelry store known for its delicate, handmade pieces, each crafted with elegant whimsy.
- Judith Bright - Whether you're looking for a standout necklace or subtle earrings, Judith Bright's gemstone collections caters to every taste and occasion.
- Happily Grey - Founded by Mary Lawless Lee, Happily Grey is a Nashville-based lifestyle brand offering a chic blend of clothing and accessories.
- Emerson Grace - A contemporary clothing boutique that represents effortless design and timeless fashion, offering a curated collection of unique and stylish pieces.
- H. Audrey - A boutique owned by country singer, Holly Williams, H. Audrey offers a selection of fashionable womenswear, accessories, and footwear from a mix of designer labels.
- Billy Reid - An upscale boutique known for its high-end, Southern-inspired clothing for men and women. From casual wear to formal attire, the store exudes an approachable elegance.
- Buck Mason - Known for its classic American clothing, Buck Mason offers a curated selection of men's apparel in the heart of Nashville.
- Grimey's Record Shop - A paradise for vinyl enthusiasts, Grimey's boasts an extensive collection of new and used records and hosts in-store performances and signings by local and touring artists.
- Jack Daniels Distillery Tour - A journey into the world of whiskey-making, exploring the history and production process of the iconic Jack Daniels.
- Frist Art Museum - A premier art institution housing rotating exhibits of local, national, and international art.
- Zeitgeist - A contemporary art gallery featuring rotating exhibits of innovative and thought-provoking works by local and international artists.
- Hatch Show Print Haley Gallery - Located inside Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, this gallery and shop features historic and contemporary letterpress posters created by Hatch.
- Cheekwood Estate & Gardens - A historic estate featuring an art museum, botanical gardens, and a Georgian-style mansion, offering visitors a chance to immerse in art, history, and natural beauty.
- David Lusk Gallery - A contemporary art gallery showcasing a variety of works by emerging and established artists.
- Grand Ole Opry House - Known as the home of American music, Grand Ole Opry is a weekly country music stage concert that has played a significant role in shaping the country music genre.
- Ryman Auditorium - A 2,362-seat live performance venue known as the "Mother Church of Country Music", showcasing performances from the industry’s biggest stars.
- The Bluebird Cafe - A renowned venue for songwriters, known worldwide for intimate acoustic performances by established and aspiring musicians.
- Schermerhorn Symphony Center - Home to the Nashville Symphony, this neoclassical venue offers an array of musical performances, from classical to pop and jazz.
- The Listening Room - A premiere music venue that has been graced by the likes of Keith Urban and Chris Stapleton, The Listening Room offers a space where audiences can experience top-quality music in an intimate, authentic setting.
- Johnny Cash Museum - A tribute to one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, the Johnny Cash Museum features a vast collection of artifacts and memorabilia associated with the Man in Black.
- Third Man Records - A record store, label, and novelty lounge owned by musician Jack White, offering a unique experience for music lovers.
- Lane Motor Museum - A unique automotive museum featuring a collection of over 500 rare and vintage cars from around the world, showcasing the evolution of the automobile industry.
- Gruhn Guitars - An iconic destination for music aficionados, Gruhn Guitars was established in 1970 and is renowned for its impressive collection of vintage and used instruments.
- Nissan Stadium - Home to the Tennessee Titans, this outdoor football stadium offers a thrilling experience for sports fanatics. The stadium also hosts a variety of other events such as concerts, soccer matches, and festivals.
- Nashville Zoo - An immersive attraction housing over 2,700 animals representing more than 365 species.
- Nashville Farmer's Market - A vibrant marketplace that operates year-round, the Nashville Farmer's Market offers a wide range of produce, artisanal food, unique crafts, pop-ups and events.
- Bicentennial Mall - This 19-acre park is located in the shadow of the State Capitol in downtown Nashville.
- Hat Making at Rustler Hat Co - A unique craft experience, where attendees learn to handcraft rustic hats from quality materials under the guidance of experienced artisans.
- The Candle Bar - A creative space where visitors can craft their own scented candles, choosing their favorite fragrances and containers.
- Downtown Franklin - Just 20 miles south of Nashville, Franklin's historic downtown is Southern upscale charm at its finest, offering a blend of charming boutiques, award-winning restaurants, and preserved structures from the 19th century.
- Leiper's Fork - A charming, unincorporated rural village located on the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway. Leiper's Fork is renowned for its vibrant art scene, antique shops, southern hospitality, and outstanding live music.
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