First Time in Nashville? The Best What to Do Guide

This blog is all about what to do and see if it’s your first time in Nashville.

I’m not exaggerating when I say Nashville might just be my favourite city on the planet.

There’s a warmth to this place that goes beyond its temperate climate. An unmistakable buzz and friendliness that you feel the moment you set foot on its music-filled streets.

Whenever I think about retiring (a fair bit down the line, mind you), I see myself in a little house with a porch swing, sweet tea in hand, wandering around in search of the next best live show.

Some might call it a pipe dream, but I’ve been lucky enough to visit Nashville a handful of times, and each trip leaves me more certain it’s possible.

If it’s your very first time in Nashville, then you’re in for a treat! Below, you’ll find a comprehensive list of my top recommendations: 15 things to do that capture the heart and soul of Music City.

RELATED First Time in Nashville blog posts to read:

If you’re planning your first time in Nashville, make sure to check out my 80+ page travel guide eBook which you can download here to help you plan!

Nashville Travel Guide Orlagh Claire Bluebird Cafe

This blog post is a guide for your first time in Nashville.

15 Things to See & Do if it’s Your First Time in Nashville

Below are the top things to see and do if it’s your first time in Nashville, Tennessee.

Make sure to check out my Nashville travel vlog from my most recent trip to Music City. This will give you an insight on what to expect and how amazing it is!

If it’s your first time in Nashville, below are the top things to see, do and eat!

1. Experience Live Music on Broadway

You can’t talk Nashville without talking about Broadway. The famous strip of honky tonks that churn out live music practically every hour of the day.

Honestly, one of the best things you can do is just take a leisurely walk along Honky Tonk Highway and pop into whichever bar is calling your name.

What’s most amazing is that you could walk into a bar at 1pm on a Wednesday, see only a handful of people at the tables, and still be treated to an absolutely incredible performance by a future country music star.

That’s Nashville for you!

Don’t forget that most musicians here work on tips, so be sure to show your appreciation if you’re loving the set.

Chuck a few dollars into their tip jar, buy them a drink, whatever suits your style.

The Best Bars on Broadway

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge (the purple icon of the strip), The Stage, Robert’s Western World (known for rockabilly vibes and cheap but tasty fried bologna sandwiches), Tin Roof, and Jason Aldean’s are all great spots for your first time in Nashville.

Don’t be shy about ducking into lesser-known places though. That’s often where the magic happens.

Check out this Music City Pub Crawl too if you’d like to join a group and experience a great night on Broadway!

RELATED First Time in Nashville blog post to read: 13 of the Best Bars on Broadway in Nashville

Useful Links & Resources

✈️ SafetyWing USA Travel Insurance
Make sure you’re insured with travel insurance for your first time in Nashville! SafetyWing offers great deals for digital nomads as well as travelers booking long and short breaks away.

📲 Airalo USA Travel eSIM
Access the internet with ease as soon as you land in Nashville with an Airalo eSIM. Use code ORLAGH3 for $3 off your first Airalo eSIM.

👩🏻‍💻 NordVPN
If you plan to use public WiFi a lot or want to stream your favourite TV shows from your home country, make sure you have a VPN connection.

🚘 GetRentaCar.com
We’ve used GetRentaCar to rent cars for day trips and road trips before and highly recommend it for ease and great rates to keep your road trip budget-friendly.

2. Book a Night at The Bluebird Café

If you want to have the most memorable first time in Nashville and hear some of the best singer-songwriters in the business, The Bluebird Café is a must-do.

It’s famously featured in the TV show Nashville, and for good reason: the acoustics and atmosphere are second to none.

Picture a small, intimate room where the audience sits in hushed reverence as artists perform in the round, sharing the backstory to their songs.

You might just realise you’re listening to the person who wrote your favourite country hit.

Just note, tickets can be notoriously hard to get. So do a bit of research or keep an eye on ticket release dates. There are typically two shows a night.

I also have an entire guide on securing tickets to the Bluebird here.

The Bluebird focuses on songwriters, meaning you’ll hear raw versions of tracks that might later become massive hits.

It feels almost like being in a friend’s living room. If your friend happens to be an insanely talented musician.

RELATED First Time in Nashville blog post to read: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting The Bluebird Cafe, Nashville

3. Tour The Ryman Auditorium

The Ryman is almost sacred ground for fans of country (and Americana) music.

Known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” it was once the home of the Grand Ole Opry before they moved to bigger digs.

Even if you can’t catch a live performance (though seeing one here is on my personal bucket list) taking a daytime tour is well worth it during your first time in Nashville.

You can walk on the stage, hear all sorts of stories about the legends who performed there, and even record your own little track in the recording booth (for a small fee).

The Ryman is right in the heart of downtown, so you can easily pair a tour with a trip to the Johnny Cash Museum or lunch at a nearby restaurant.

People often get confused between The Grande Ole Opry and The Ryman. Are they the same thing? What’s the difference?

The Opry House is located a little further out of town, near the Opryland Resort. The Ryman is downtown.

Both have deep ties to Nashville’s music heritage, so do both if you’ve got time!

RELATED First Time in Nashville blog post to read: The Best Nashville Tours & Museums to Visit in Tennessee

If you’re planning your first time in Nashville, make sure to check out my 80+ page travel guide eBook which you can download here to help you plan!

4. Feast on Nashville Hot Chicken

Nashville is known for hot chicken, and if you love a bit of spice, you’re in luck.

I’m talking about fried chicken coated in a fiery paste. Seriously, your lips might go numb if you’re not prepared.

The top contenders for the crown are Hattie B’s, Prince’s, and Bolton’s:

Hattie B’s: Conveniently near Broadway, and with multiple locations. Expect queues, especially during peak lunch and dinner times. Spice levels range from “Southern” (no heat) to “Shut the Cluck Up!!!” (where your taste buds might need replacing afterwards).
Prince’s: Arguably the original hot chicken pioneer. There’s often a queue here too, but it’s an authentic local experience.
Bolton’s: Spicier still and more of a no-frills spot. I adore the hole-in-the-wall vibe. Walk in, order, and brace yourself for the burn.

RELATED First Time in Nashville blog post to read: Where to Eat the Best Hot Chicken in Nashville

5. Sing Karaoke at Santa’s Pub

If karaoke is your jam, or even if it isn’t, Santa’s Pub offers an unforgettable experience.

This is a double-wide trailer decorated with Christmas knick-knacks all year round. The atmosphere? Equal parts kitsch and charm.

Locals tend to frequent this joint, so when you walk in, you might get a few side-eyes at first. But grab a drink, put your name on the karaoke list, and you’ll soon be belting out tunes in front of a crowd that’s enthusiastic, if a bit delightfully random.

Don’t come here looking for polished sets or glamorous décor. It’s a friendly, slightly divey bar with a whole lot of personality.

It’s a bit off the main tourist trail, so you might need to take an Uber to get there if you haven’t got a car. But trust me, it’s well worth the trek.

Personally, I had the best time belting out Dolly Parton’s ‘Jolene’ during my first time in Nashville and my first trip to Santa’s Pub.

RELATED First Time in Nashville blog post to read: 13 of the Best Bars on Broadway in Nashville

6. Indulge at Five Daughters Bakery

Five Daughters Bakery is the place to go if you fancy a sweet treat in the form of a 100-layer doughnut.

They’re essentially an addictive hybrid of doughnut and croissant, and come in various flavours. Think chocolate, salted caramel, or seasonal fruit glazes.

The branch in 12 South is especially popular; plus, 12 South itself is a fab area to explore (more on that below).

Five Daughters is family-run, and they put genuine thought into their ingredients, often organic and free of certain preservatives.

So, you can almost convince yourself it’s health food… almost.

RELATED First Time in Nashville blog post to read: 12 South Nashville: Ultimate Guide to This Trendy Neighborhood

22 Popular Nashville Murals You Must See in Music City

7. Hunt for Murals (Especially in 12 South)

If you’re the type who loves a good Instagram snap, you’ll be spoilt for choice by the murals scattered around Nashville.

The “I Believe in Nashville” mural is practically an icon, so do expect a small queue of folks waiting to take their photo.

However, it’s just one of many. The neighbourhood of 12 South has an entire collection of colourful street art. Just wander around side roads, peek behind cafés, and you’ll discover all sorts of gems.

Early morning is best if you want fewer people in your shots, especially at the ultra-popular murals.

And if you’re travelling solo, you’ll usually find a friendly passer-by willing to snap a pic for you.

RELATED First Time in Nashville blog post to read: 23 Popular Nashville Murals You Must See in Music City

8. Explore 12 South

I’ve mentioned it a couple of times already, but 12 South truly is one of my favourite areas in the city.

It’s got a cosy, almost village-like vibe, peppered with boutiques, coffee shops, vintage shops, and also the star-studded Draper James owned by Reese Witherspoon.

People here tend to stroll at a leisurely pace, especially in the mornings when they’re sipping lattes and walking dogs.

Apart from Five Daughters Bakery, you’ll find foodie spots like Taqueria del Sol (for quick, tasty tacos) and Frothy Monkey (quick brunch and lunch bites).

From artisan candles to quirky home décor, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to shop local and snag souvenirs that aren’t the usual touristy trinkets.

RELATED First Time in Nashville blog post to read: 12 South Nashville: Ultimate Guide to This Trendy Neighborhood

If you’re planning your first time in Nashville, make sure to check out my 80+ page travel guide eBook which you can download here to help you plan!

9. Brunch at Biscuit Love

So if you’re anything like me, brunch is a sacred weekend ritual, and Biscuit Love is one of Nashville’s prime temples of brunch.

The queue can be intimidating, but the payoff is worth it. The biscuits are fluffy and golden, often topped with fried chicken, gravy, or also sweet jam.

It’s comfort food on another level.

Try the “East Nasty” (fried chicken on a biscuit smothered in gravy) if you want the full Southern experience. You might feel the need for a nap afterwards, but it’s pure bliss in a bun.

RELATED First Time in Nashville blog post to read: The Best 14 Nashville Brunch Spots in Music City

10. Visit the Johnny Cash Museum

Right off Broadway sits the Johnny Cash Museum, a shrine to the Man in Black and his monumental influence on country music.

The exhibits take you through his life, from his humble beginnings to his prison gigs, chart-topping hits, and also final recordings.

It’s relatively small, so you can breeze through it in under an hour, but you’ll walk out with a deeper appreciation for his artistry.

Pair this with a stroll to the Country Music Hall of Fame if you want a full day of musical education (they’re only about a 5- to 10-minute walk apart).

RELATED First Time in Nashville blog post to read: The Best Nashville Tours & Museums to Visit in Tennessee

11. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

For those who are genuinely into the entire tapestry of country music, think bluegrass, honky tonk, Western swing, the outlaw movement, and even modern pop-country crossovers, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum will feel like a pilgrimage site.

So plan a couple of hours here if you want to see everything in depth.

Highlights of the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum:

The rotating exhibits often spotlight current stars or deep-dives into historical figures.
The Hall of Fame rotunda is a bit of a goosebump moment for die-hard fans, with plaques dedicated to the genre’s legends.

Sometimes they offer a tour that includes the historic RCA Studio B, where Dolly Parton and Elvis Presley recorded. It’s a brilliant add-on if you’re keen on music history.

RELATED First Time in Nashville blog post to read: The Best Nashville Tours & Museums to Visit in Tennessee

12. Geek Out at Third Man Records

Third Man Records, started by Jack White of The White Stripes, is part vinyl emporium, part recording studio, and sometimes also a live music venue.

The shop sells quirky merchandise and rare vinyl, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a small gig in the back.

It’s a fun place to poke around, even if you’re only somewhat into rock music.

For real music nerds, you could spend ages browsing the racks and reading about Jack White’s latest creations.

They also have an old-school record booth where you can record your own voice onto a vinyl. So perfect if you want a truly unique souvenir.

RELATED First Time in Nashville blog post to read: Nashville Hotels: The Best 13 from Budget to Luxury

13. Check Out The Parthenon

Yes, you read that right: Nashville is home to a full-scale replica of the Parthenon from ancient Greece.

It’s in Centennial Park, just west of downtown.

The building houses an art museum, but even just a wander around the exterior is oddly thrilling.

Where else can you see a giant Greek temple plonked in the middle of an American city?

If you’re there in the warmer months, the park also hosts free concerts, events, and food trucks, so it can be a lovely spot to relax and soak up some local culture.

Nashville has been nicknamed the “Athens of the South” because of its emphasis on higher education (it’s got a stack of universities). Hence the Parthenon.

If you’re planning your first time in Nashville, make sure to check out my 80+ page travel guide eBook which you can download here to help you plan!

14. Catch a Live Sports Match in Nashville

Music isn’t Nashville’s only draw. Live sports can be an absolute hoot, particularly if you’re new to American leagues.

The Nashville Predators (ice hockey) play at the Bridgestone Arena, literally on Broadway, making it so easy to pair a game with a post-match pint.

Hockey is fast-paced and typically ends in around 2.5 hours, so you don’t have to dedicate your entire evening to it.

For American Football fans, the Tennessee Titans stadium sits just across the river.

If you happen to be around during the NFL season, going to a Titans game is a crash course in American sporting culture. Tailgates, giant foam fingers, and so much more.

Then you can walk back over the bridge to Broadway afterwards.

15. Venture Into Printer’s Alley

If it’s your first time in Nashville, you might stick to Broadway and totally miss out on Printer’s Alley.

A small but legendary strip that used to be the printing and publishing district in old Nashville.

Nowadays it’s lined with bars, clubs, and also neon signs that give it a distinct vibe separate from Broadway’s honky tonk scene.

You’ll still find plenty of live music here, but it’s often less crowded. Think of it as an alternative night out if you need a breather from the main drag.

You’ll find bars like Bourbon Street Blues & Boogie Bar bring blues and jazz to the forefront, so if you’re a bit exhausted by country tunes (perish the thought!), you can always mix up your music genres.

More Tips for Your First Time in Nashville

Below are some tips and things to consider for your first time in Nashville, Tennessee.

Transport

Nashville isn’t known for its robust public transport. So consider renting a car or relying on Ubers.

If you’re staying downtown, walking is feasible to many locations, but you’ll want wheels if you’re venturing out for hot chicken or Santa’s Pub.

Dress Code

Nashville can get hot and humid in the summer, so breathable clothes are a must.

But if you’re planning on bar-hopping at night, you’ll see everything from cowboy boots and denim to casual trainers. Go with whatever’s comfortable.

Weather Awareness

Spring and autumn are gorgeous, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter can be surprisingly chilly, while summer can be quite steamy.

Mind the Noise

Broadway gets loud, especially on weekend nights. If you’re a light sleeper, make sure your accommodation is either soundproof or a short Uber away from the strip.

A Guide to Your First Time in Nashville

Nashville may be the home of country music, but it’s so much more than that.

It’s the place where you can wander into a bar at midday and discover your new favourite artist, tuck into spicy chicken that’ll make your eyes water, or also stumble across a Greek-inspired temple in the middle of a park.

It’s a city that wears its heart on its sleeve, is so proud of its musical heritage, its Southern hospitality, and its knack for surprising even the most seasoned travellers.

Whether you’re a huge country fan or just someone who appreciates good food and great vibes, you’ll find yourself grinning from ear to ear in Music City.

And who knows, maybe you’ll be the next person dreaming of a porch swing and a glass of sweet tea, plotting a retirement in the city that never stops humming with a tune.

Until then, soak it all in: the live music, the hot chicken, the friendly nods of passing locals, and the sense that you’ve just discovered the best-kept secret in the Southern United States.

Enjoy every second of your first time in Nashville, and I have no doubt you’ll be back for round two soon enough!

RELATED First Time in Nashville blog posts to read:

So if you’re planning a trip for your first time in Nashville, make sure to check out my 80+ page travel guide eBook which you can download here to help you plan!

By Orlagh Shanks

Orlagh Shanks is the Editor of Orlagh Claire, an award-winning travel and lifestyle blog.
After working in the PR & Influencer Marketing industry, Orlagh quit her job to travel Asia for 12 months and moved to Sydney, Australia where she is now a full-time travel blogger and content creator sharing travel tips and recommendations for all 30 of the countries she’s visited so far.

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This blog post is a guide for your first time in Nashville.

15 Things to See & Do if it’s Your First Time in Nashville