Have you been thinking about visiting Nashville, Tennessee? Whether you’re a weekend warrior or in full week-long vacation mode, there is a unique Nashville experience waiting for everyone. Read on to discover recommended food, arts, and entertainment to put on your weekend itinerary!
How to Enjoy Nashville in a Weekend
If you only have one weekend in our lovely city of Nashville, check out this itinerary to give you a sampling of what Nashville has to offer for a weekend. We cannot guarantee you won’t fall in love with our city. We welcome you with open arms and are sure glad you are here!
Day 1
Welcome to Nashville! It’s day one so we are sure you are ready to hit the town. Pro-tip: Be sure to wear walking shoes in order to enjoy your Nashville in a weekend more comfortably. Nashville is safe city and very manageable by foot. Downtown is perfect for a walking experience- with just enough hills to get your steps in!
Morning
Let’s start the morning with a hardy meal. We suggest two options, but note, there are so many options in the downtown neighborhood of Nashville. This city is truly one that serves all culinary tastes.
For a more bakery styled breakfast, such as homemade Pecan Cinnamon Bunz or Raspberry macarons, check out D’Andrews Bakery located on Church Street. The owner, David Andrews, is a Nashville native and world-class chef that turns modern recipes into delectable Southern delights.
Or, if you want a hearty meal to give you that extra pep in your step, check out Varallo’s, located on 4th Avenue North, which serves your typical big breakfast combos of eggs, sausages, bacon, hash browns, and toast.
Next, head over to your walking tour. We always recommend to start your visit to a city with a walking tour as it gives you the best highlights and knowledge that you can then explore on your own.
Take a tour by Nashville Experience Tours to learn about the city’s architecture, history, restaurants, music, and more. Current tours run Saturday-Sunday 10am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm, and 6pm as well as the option for a Private Tour.
Your tour guide is more than happy to make custom recommendations and answer any questions you may have on your weekend in Nashville.
Afternoon
It would not be Nashville, without true Nashville grub. Our first recommendation on your afternoon in Nashville, is to try what you simply cannot get back at home! Here are a few suggestions:
For some good ol’ Southern barbecue, check out Jack’s Bar-B-Que on Broadway, which serves Tennessee Pork Shoulder or St. Louis Style Ribs or different meat combo plates! This is truly a staple of Downtown cuisine.
Florida Georgia Line House is another excellent lunch spot if you are looking for a dining experience. Huge Healthy Salads, Hot Chicken (to die for), Shrimp and Grits, Burgers, and Collards – take your pick! While you’re there listen to live music and keep an eye out on the Record Label next door – you never know who may walk in.
If you are catering to a large group and variety is the name of the game, then Assembly Hall will be your best bet. Located at 5th and Broadway, Assembly Hall boasts as the largest food hall in the country. We are most excited about two locations that were well overdue to join the downtown cuisine- Pharmacy Burger and Prince’s Hot Chicken.
Now this is only for the ultimate planners. Those who have room for more on their Day 1 adventure in Nashville. Your tour with Nashville Experience Tours should have given you a better idea of what “strikes your fancy”; but if you are unsure please check out some of our suggestions for a musical excursion:
- The Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum gives visitors insight into a variety of musicians who have changed the music industry, not just country music. It is located at 401 Gay Street at Historic Nashville Municipal Auditorium.
- Many visitors visit Nashville specifically to see the Country Music Hall of Fame located at 222 Fifth Avenue South. From movie props, to lyrics sheets, this really is a cool way to fan-girl/or guy for the day. They have mementos you will not see anywhere else.
- Or Check out the Ryman Auditorium, otherwise known as “The Mother Church of Country Music”. They run different tour experiences throughout the day as well as host some of the top headlines in Country Music.
With these, you should plan for 2 hours-2.5 hours to account for walk, wait, and viewing time. Be sure to check their websites for guided tour options and current pricing.
Evening
Not tired yet? Great to hear! An evening in Nashville (or two) will allow you to see the famed “Honky-Tonk Highway,” which holds most of Nashville’s famous live music bars.
Bar-hopping downtown Nashville, you either love it or you hate it! Here are the legendary options we recommend for the Nashville experience (as opposed to the drinking experience):
Roberts Western World is 4th and Broadway. It is by far one of the most traditional and authentic bars in Nashville. Sandwiched between larger bars, it is often overlooked and makes for a quieter place for a famous face or two to enjoy their evening. Nashville Scene readers consistently vote Robert’s as the “Best Honky Tonk in Nashville” for this reason.
Layla’s is another Nashville original honkey tonk. Located at 418 Broadway, offering live music and a great atmosphere. This is one of those bars that has stayed a local hangout. Be sure to bring in your old license plate in exchange for your first beer, free!
The Stage is a multi-level country music bar that has hosted artists such as Hank Williams Jr., Toby Keith, Miranda Lambert, Brooks & Dunn. Their rooftop boasts one of the most stunning views of downtown Broadway and is a central location to watch – or join in- all the action.
Day 2
If you had a great time the night before, day 2 might not start as early as you intend. Take it easy, let Nashville show you what is next.
Morning
For a quick bite and coffee run, head over to Moonshot Coffee Bar at 300 Gay Street, which has a variety of drinks to start your day off right.
If you are ready for a sit down Nashville brunch, check out either Drug Store Coffee located on 4th Avenue North or The Southern Steak & Oyster, on 3rd avenue. You will not be disappointed with either one!
Next, spend some time at Assembly Hall, the new shopping mall in the heart of the city. You can explore restaurants, shop for any souvenirs, and see epic murals. The AC is also a major plus! Check out their event calendar online if you are looking for a music, arts, or cultural experience while on your Nashville. weekend
Afternoon
Jason Aldean’s Kitchen and Rooftop Bar on 311 Broadway offers classic Southern dishes as well as a variety of drinks. Plus, their live music starts at 11am. This is one of those places you could easily spend your entire day, and not be the least bit upset about it.
For your next excursion, head over to the Frist Art Museum on 919 Broadway. This Art Museum holds different exhibits year-round. So, even if you have been here before; chances are your next visit would be an entirely new experience. The building itself is notably a Top “Must-Sees Architecture” of Nashville. Pro-tip: there’s a great local bar called The Flying Saucer right next door. Pop in to try a unique craft beer in a relaxed (think, couches) environment.
For our sports fans, the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame is a great way to spend your afternoon. Located at 501 Broadway, this attraction has some of the cheapest tickets in town ($3 for adults and $2 for children); always check the website for the latest pricing!
Evening
Tin Roof Broadway , is a great central location that offers happy hour starting at 2pm and live music all day, all night. This is one of the oldest standing brands of our downtown, and a true local favorite. The bartenders and other guests would love to hear about your stay!
Getting off the main strip of Broadway, a unique area to explore on your Day 2 is Printers Alley. It is a small, gritty alley but also history-filled and lined with lighting. Here you will find jazz and blues music and some of Nashville’s best bars and restaurants.
Honorable mention: If you are visiting Nashville on a weekend with any home sports games – consider yourself lucky. And do it! Our fans are known for their dedication and…volume. We have the Tennessee Titans (football), The Nashville Predators (hockey), The Nashville Sounds (baseball), and now the Nashville SC (soccer). All are equally as fun and a great way to spend your day or night in Nashville.
Enjoy Nashville in a weekend with Nashville Experience Tours
If you are looking for something specific or you don’t see something that interests you (are you sure?!), be sure to get in touch with Nashville Experience Tours so you can talk to our knowledgeable and local guides. We are confident they will fulfill any open sections in your Nashville weekend itinerary!
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