Traveling solo is a rewarding experience that allows you to explore new places on your own terms. If you are one of the 25% of travelers who choose to fly solo (Solo Traveler World), with a penchant for adventure, then there’s no better destination to visit than Nashville, Tennessee.
Known as the “Music City,” Nashville offers a vibrant blend of music, history, culture, and southern charm. To ensure a safe and enjoyable solo trip to this iconic city, follow these tips and guidelines including must-sees, things-to-do, and the best Nashville tours.
Research and Planning: The Foundation of a Safe Journey
- According to Solo Traveler World, 70% of solo travelers have taken a tour to destinations that they have yet to be confident in going to themselves. As a good rule of thumb for solo travelers, it is best to “know before you go”.
- Start by researching Nashville’s neighborhoods, attractions, and safety tips. Understand the city’s layout, public transportation options, and popular areas for tourists. It’s essential to have a good grasp of what to expect. Nashville Experience Tours has prepared a free Trip Planner Guide to help you with this information and more of the city, view this guide here: https://www.nashvilleexperiencetours.com/trip-planner/.
- A major factor to consider when traveling solo to Nashville is your accommodations. When it comes to large metro cities such as Nashville, it is best to opt for reputable hotels, hostels, or vacation rentals with positive reviews and secure locations. Staying in well-traveled areas can provide an added sense of security and ensure you are within short distance of the things you’d like to do. Due to the layout of the city, Airbnb and reputable hotels in the immediate downtown area are the most preferred stays by Nashville travelers (see a full list of preferred stay partners here).
Safety on the Go: Navigating Nashville
- Nashville’s downtown area is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot or local rideshare options. Nashville has ample of reliable transportation services like taxis, rideshares, and even public transit. However, if you are venturing outside of the city, it is best to opt for a rental car. A local favorite option for transportation is Lyft and van tour buses that take you within city limits.
- Pro-tip: Maintain situational awareness as you explore. There have been instances of crime in Nashville, especially in the main “Broadway” center during late and weekend hours. After all, Music City is a city that never sleeps with populations by the thousands on any given weekend night. Overall, the city is safe and takes many precautions to safeguard solo travelers. But use your best judgment. Keep an eye on your belongings, and be cautious when engaging with strangers. Trust your instincts, and if something doesn’t feel right, remove yourself from the situation.
Solo Dining: The Flavors of Nashville
- You really cannot go wrong with the dining options in Nashville. People often think that Nashville is full of honkey tonks and bars, but the city boasts a diverse culinary scene with restaurants from fusion to fine dining. Many of the 4 and 5-star restaurants will require a reservation in advance so be sure to research and call ahead if this is available to you. Popular establishments will see waiting times of up to two hours during peak times. As a solar traveler in Nashville, don’t be afraid to dine alone! The food and ambiance are so unique – dining is a worthwhile experience.
Check out dining recommendations from our friends at Style Blueprint.
Nightlife Safety: Enjoying the Music and Entertainment Scene
- As mentioned above, the nightlife can get packed in downtown Nashville. Depending on your solo travel preference, this may or may not be on your itinerary. If you do choose to go “downtown” (the area between Riverfront, 4th Avenue, and Broadway) during busy times, be mindful of the crowd and entertainment scene.
- If you plan to enjoy Nashville’s famous honky-tonks and bars, do so responsibly. Keep an eye on your drink, and avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which can impair your judgment. Broadway, Nashville is known for being an “alcoholic playground” to the locals from Thursday through Saturday nights. It is a good idea to take a Nashville tour prior to venturing to receive local recommendations and can avoid what locals call “tourist traps”. AKA, overpriced bars packed wall to wall with no real culture other than a place for tourists to let loose.
- Additionally, as a solo traveler, you may consider making friends with fellow travelers or locals you meet during your journey. Having a buddy when you venture out at night can provide an added layer of security.
Cultural Etiquette: Embracing Southern Hospitality
- Nashville is known for its warm southern hospitality. Embrace the local culture by being polite, friendly, and considerate. A smile and a “thank you” can go a long way.
- Dress comfortably and in line with the weather. Nashville does have cobblestone streets lining the downtown area, so consider this when choosing footwear for the area. For some establishments, like fine dining restaurants or Speakeasies, business casual will be more appropriate. Many establishments do not allow men to wear undershirts such as tank tops. As many cities do, Nashville is full of its own quirky nuances. Download this trip planner to get a better idea of some of the cultural etiquette you may find.
Exploring Music City: Must-See Attractions
Okay, and now to the good stuff! As a solo traveler, you may be craving the unique vibe that only Nashville can provide. Is it the music, history, architecture, dining, or adventure that drew you to traveling in Nashville? Nashville has something for everyone.
- The Grand Ole Opry: No visit to Nashville is complete without a trip to the Grand Ole Opry. Enjoy the legendary performances at this iconic venue, where country music’s biggest stars have graced the stage. This venue is not located directly downtown so you will need to arrange transportation for this landmark.
- Ryman Auditorium: Explore the historic Ryman Auditorium, often referred to as the “Mother Church of Country Music.” Take a guided tour to learn about its rich history and check showtimes early to reserve your spot front row to the local or national artists gracing the stage.
- Country Music Hall of Fame: Immerse yourself in the history of country music at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. If you are interested in music history at all, this is the place to start. This landmark is one of the world’s largest museums and research centers dedicated to the preservation of American vernacular music. A present-day must-visit for music enthusiasts traveling to Nashville.
- Historic Sites: From backcountry trading posts to international country music notoriety, Nashville is the driving force of the State of Tennessee and has shaped the nation’s history for over two centuries. The historical side of Nashville can be seen in must-see sites like Fort Nashborough, Woolworth, The Hermitage (President Andrew Jackson’s former home), The Tennessee State Capitol (which is said to be haunted), and the Parthenon at Centennial Park.
- Nashville City Tour: While exploring on your own can be exciting, joining a city tour adds a unique layer to your travel experience. It’s not just about sightseeing; it’s about connecting with like-minded individuals, learning from passionate guides, and immersing yourself in the local culture. City tours provide a structured and safe way to navigate the city as a solo traveler, eliminating the stress of planning and ensuring you don’t miss the must-see attractions. Do not miss the best Nashville tours, that include inside looks and hidden gems that only locals or experienced guides can share.
- Live Music on Broadway: Music is alive on the streets of Nashville from 11 a.m.-3 a.m. every day of the week. While the night scene leans more towards entertainment and alcohol-related activities, the daytime can be pleasant for a solo traveler looking for a tune to sing. Spend your afternoons strolling along Broadway and hopping from honky-tonk to honky-tonk. Enjoy live music, dance-along, or even jump on stage at the world-famous karaoke at Tequila Cowboy’s WannaB’s.
Day Trips and Outdoor Adventures
Music City is a beautiful city to explore by foot, 2 wheels, a zip line, or even on the water. There is a plethora of outdoor trips within 3 hours from all directions of Nashville. Travelers can soak up history and wine at Arrington Vineyards in Nolensville, TN. Explore quaint shopping and eateries in Franklin, TN. Or explore the colors of Radnor Lake State Park located in Brentwood, TN.
If you’re a nature lover, consider a day trip to Fall Creek Falls in Spencer, TN. This natural state park offers hiking trails, scenic views, waterfalls, and a tranquil escape from the city. This park ranks top of the best day trips outside of Nashville.
Experience Tennessee’s famous whiskey culture by visiting distilleries like Jack Daniel’s, George Dickel, or Ernest Green. The larger distilleries are outside of the city and make great day trips. Enjoy tastings and learn about the whiskey-making process. However, there are plenty of distilleries and tasting rooms within the city that are worth the visit as well, including Nashville Barrel Co and Tennessee Legend Distillery. Van tours in Nashville will often include tastings on their tours. These are the best options to enjoy a unique all-in-one day trip.
Nashville Solo Travel is Safe and Rewarding
Traveling solo to Nashville can be a safe and enriching experience when you plan ahead, stay vigilant, and embrace the city’s culture and must-see attractions. By following these guidelines, you’ll be well-prepared to explore Music City, create lasting memories, and savor every moment of your solo adventure in this vibrant and welcoming destination. So, pack your bags, put on your boots, and get ready to enjoy the best of Nashville – on your terms!
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