Nashville Tennessee Usa 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Nashville Itinerary: Music City Extravaganza

This itinerary showcases the best of Nashville for music lovers and those seeking a taste of Southern charm. Feel free to adjust it based on your interests!

Day 1: Honky Tonk Highway & Downtown Delights

  • Morning: Arrive in Nashville, check into your hotel (see “Where to Stay” section). Stroll down Broadway and explore the iconic Honky Tonk bars and honky tonk highway.
  • Afternoon: Grab a bite on Broadway at The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden for delicious burgers and milkshakes.
  • Evening: Enjoy live music on Broadway, a must-do for any visitor to Nashville!

Where to stay:

For the full “Music City” experience:

  • Budget: The Dive Motel (retro themed), Nashville Hostel (fun & social)
  • Mid-range: The Russell Hotel (boutique hotel with a music theme), Gaylord Opryland Resort (offers a variety of activities and dining options)
  • Luxury: Gaylord Opryland Resort (for its unique setting and amenities), The Hermitage Hotel (historic charm meets modern luxury)

Where to eat:

  • Lunch: Enjoy a classic Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich at Hattie B’s.
  • Dinner: Indulge in Southern comfort food with a twist at The 404 Kitchen, known for its creative menu and local ingredients.

Other things of interest:

  • Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
  • Explore Ryman Auditorium, the “Mother Church of Country Music”
  • Enjoy the live music scene on Broadway and in other parts of Nashville like The Bluebird Cafe (intimate venue) or Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge (known for its history and lively atmosphere)

Day 2: Country Music History & Music Row Vibes

  • Morning: Walk in the footsteps of country music legends at the Ryman Auditorium tour. Learn about the history of this iconic venue and its role in shaping country music.
  • Afternoon: Explore the birthplace of country music, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, which offers a fascinating journey through the genre’s roots, evolution, and future.

Day 3: Music City Mayhem

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in the story of the Grand Ole Opry at the historic Ryman Auditorium.**
  • Afternoon: Visit the Johnny Cash Museum to delve into the life and legacy of “The Man in Black.”

Day 4: Country Music & Southern Charm

  • Morning: Take a walk through Music Row, the heart of Nashville’s music industry. See the recording studios where countless hits have been recorded.

  • Afternoon: Indulge in a delicious meal at The Loveless Cafe, known for its authentic Southern dishes and, of course, their famous biscuits.

Day 5: Music City Eats & Treats

  • Morning: Travel back in time with a visit to the Ryman Auditorium.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a classic Nashville hot chicken at Hattie B’s Hot Chicken.
  • Evening: Experience an evening of live music at The Bluebird Cafe, a legendary venue known for its intimate setting and focus on songwriters.

Day 6: Music City & Beyond

  • Day Trip: Explore the history and beauty of Nashville with a visit to the historic Belle Meade Plantation, which offers tours of the antebellum mansion and grounds.
  • Other Activities: Catch a show at the Grand Ole Opry (book in advance!), enjoy a picnic on the lawn of The Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the ancient Greek temple located in Centennial Park, or visit the Frist Art Museum for a dose of art and culture.

Day 7: Music City Farewell

  • Morning: Enjoy one last morning strolling through the shops and restaurants at the Gulch, a trendy neighborhood with a mix of local boutiques and eateries.
  • Dinner: Treat yourself to a delicious Southern meal at The 404 Kitchen, while enjoying a final night of live music.

Things to Know:

  • Best time to visit: Nashville is lovely year-round, but the best times are spring (March-May) for pleasant weather and blooming flowers, and fall (September-November) for cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage.
  • Weather: The weather can be unpredictable in Tennessee. Pack layers of clothing to prepare for both warm and cool weather.

Tips for a Successful Trip:

  • Transportation:

    • Nashville’s Public Transportation: Nashville has a bus system, but it’s not the most efficient way to get around, especially if you want to explore beyond downtown.
    • Walking: Downtown is easily walkable, especially the areas surrounding Honky Tonk Highway.
    • Ride-sharing: Uber and Lyft are widely available in Nashville.

  • Book ahead: The Grand Ole Opry often sells out, so book tickets well in advance to ensure you get a seat.

  • Be prepared for crowds: Nashville is known for its lively nightlife and music scene, especially during peak seasons.

Other things of interest:

  • Music City Walk of Fame: Located on Music Row, this sidewalk attraction celebrates the achievements of musicians, songwriters, producers, and more who have contributed to Nashville’s musical legacy.
  • The Grand Ole Opry: Catch a show at this iconic venue while you are here.

Other Tips:

  • Enjoy the live music: Nashville is known as the “Music City” for a reason! Check out the local music scene beyond just the “Honky Tonk Highway”.

  • Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: This museum has many exhibits, including historical artifacts, vintage instruments, and interactive displays.

  • Explore the city’s history: Nashville is rich in history, dating back to its founding in 1780. Visit historic sites like The Hermitage (Andrew Jackson’s home) or Fort Nashborough (the city’s original settlement).

  • Visit the Bluebird Cafe: This intimate venue has hosted many famous singer-songwriters early in their careers and is a must-visit for any music lover looking for a unique Nashville experience.

  • Enjoy the culinary scene:

    • Try local favorites: Sample Nashville hot chicken, barbecue, meat and threes (meat served with three sides), and Southern fried catfish.

  • Experience the live music scene:

    • Visit the Bluebird Cafe: This iconic venue is known for its intimate setting and focus on songwriters.

Enjoy a show at the Bluebird Cafe!

  • Visit the Johnny Cash Museum: Experience a night of live music at the Grand Ole Opry or the Ernest Tubb Record Shops, where you can find local musicians performing and enjoy a traditional “meat and three” meal.
  • Experience Music City: Nashville is known for its vibrant music scene.

Enjoy a final night of live music at the Bluebird Cafe, listening to the stories and the music that makes this city so special.