Nashville, Tennessee, USA-3-day-itinerary

Nashville: Music City Mayhem - 3 Day Itinerary

This itinerary is designed for music lovers and foodies looking to experience the vibrant heart of Nashville.

Things to Know:

  • Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Currency: US Dollar ($)
  • Language: English
  • Tipping: 15-20% is customary for good service in restaurants and bars.

Transportation:

  • Walking: Downtown Nashville is very walkable, especially around the main attractions.
  • Ride-sharing: Uber and Lyft are readily available.
  • Public Transportation: The MTA bus system covers most of the city.
  • Scooters: Electric scooter rentals are popular for shorter distances.

Where to Stay:

  • The Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center: Luxury resort with beautiful indoor gardens, multiple restaurants, and a spa. (Expensive)
  • The Hermitage Hotel: Historic landmark hotel offering elegance and charm in the heart of downtown. (Mid-range to Expensive)
  • Airbnb/VRBO: For budget-friendly options, consider renting an apartment or house in neighborhoods like East Nashville or 12South.

Day 1: Honky Tonk Heaven & Southern Flavors

  • Morning: Arrive in Nashville and check into your accommodation. Start with a walk along Broadway, the heart of Music City, lined with iconic honky-tonks like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge and The Bluebird Cafe. Catch live music performances throughout the day.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to learn about country music history and see exhibits featuring legendary artists.
  • Evening: Enjoy a delicious Southern dinner at The Loveless Cafe (known for their biscuits) or Hattie B’s Hot Chicken (for spicy fried chicken). Afterwards, explore the nightlife on Broadway, hopping between honky-tonks and soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Day 2: Music Legends & Culinary Delights

  • Morning: Take a tour of Ryman Auditorium, the “Mother Church of Country Music,” where countless legends have performed.
  • Afternoon: Explore the trendy Gulch neighborhood, known for its boutiques, art galleries, and delicious restaurants like Biscuit Love (for creative biscuit dishes) or The 404 Kitchen (for upscale Southern cuisine).
  • Evening: Experience a show at the Grand Ole Opry, the world-famous country music stage. After the show, enjoy a late-night snack at Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack for authentic Nashville hot chicken.

Day 3: Art & History with a Twist

  • Morning: Visit the Frist Art Museum, featuring rotating exhibitions of contemporary art. Afterwards, explore the historic Belle Meade Plantation, a former thoroughbred horse farm offering tours and insights into Southern plantation life.
  • Afternoon: Relax at Centennial Park, home to a replica of the Parthenon and beautiful walking trails. Enjoy lunch at The Row Kitchen & Pub for classic American fare with a modern twist.
  • Evening: Catch a live performance at the Ryman Auditorium or another music venue in town. Before leaving, grab some souvenirs from Hatch Show Print, a historic letterpress print shop creating iconic concert posters.

Tips:

  • Book accommodations and show tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around downtown Nashville.
  • Be prepared for crowds, especially on Broadway during evenings and weekends.
  • Embrace the live music scene - there’s always a band playing somewhere!
  • Sample local specialties like hot chicken, biscuits and gravy, and Nashville-style barbecue.

Enjoy your time in Music City!