Nashville's Best Day Trip Guide

Experience the heart and soul of country music in Nashville, USA.

22 April 2023

As a tourist in Nashville, one can immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of country music by visiting the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Experience the vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine of the city through honky-tonk bars on Broadway and signature hot chicken dishes. Additionally, explore the charming neighborhoods and parks of Nashville for a more laid-back and nature-infused experience.

Day trip plan

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Day

Nashville Nostalgia

  • Start your day with a cup of coffee at the iconic Bongo Java in the Belmont neighborhood, a hotspot for creatives and students alike.
  • Take a stroll through Centennial Park to admire the full-scale replica of the Parthenon and the Athena statue housed within it.
  • Head to the Country Music Hall of Fame to immerse yourself in the history of country music and admire Elvis’ gold Cadillac.
  • Grab lunch at Arnold's Country Kitchen where locals line up for their edge-of-the-city classic Southern Meat-and-Three dishes.
  • Continue your journey at The Ryman Auditorium, the mother church of country music, where you can catch a concert, tour the backstage or snap a selfie with a life-sized statue of Johnny Cash.
  • End your day on Broadway, the neon-lit honky-tonk hubbub of live music and boot-scooting dance floors. Don’t forget to take your photo with the big guitar in front of the Bridgestone Arena.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Nashville by plane is to fly into Nashville International Airport, which is serviced by many major airlines.

Car

Traveling to Nashville by car is a great option for those who want to have the freedom to explore the surrounding areas as well. Major highways such as I-40 and I-65 offer easy access to the city.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no direct trains to Nashville, so flying or driving are the best options.

Boat

While there is no direct service to Nashville by boat, travelers can take a river cruise on the Cumberland River, which passes through Nashville and offers beautiful views of the city from the water.

Bus

Greyhound offers several daily bus routes to Nashville from various cities throughout the United States, making it a convenient and affordable option for travelers.

More travel plans

Weekend Bliss: Nashville on a budget

Visiting Nashville on a limited budget is still an enjoyable venture with many activities to partake in. There are several free or low-cost attractions such as the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Johnny Cash Museum, and the Belle Meade Plantation. Staying in a reasonably priced hotel or Airbnb and taking advantage of happy hour specials can also help make the trip more affordable.

5-Day Music & Culture Tour of Nashville

A trip to Nashville is a great opportunity to explore the vibrant music scene and Southern culture of the United States. To make the most of it while on a limited budget, consider staying in affordable accommodations like hostels or budget hotels, and take advantage of free attractions such as exploring the city's many parks and visiting music museums and institutions. Additionally, there are plenty of local food favorites that won't break the bank, like hot chicken and barbecue, to get a taste of the city without spending too much.

Nashville on a Budget: Food, Music, and Fun!

For budget travelers visiting Nashville, Tennessee, we recommend exploring the quaint neighborhoods, such as Music Row, for free live music and street art. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum offers discounted tickets for students and military personnel, and the sprawling Centennial Park, home to a full-scale replica of the Parthenon, is a must-visit free attraction. For affordable lodging options, consider staying in a hostel or exploring budget-friendly Airbnb listings.

Discover Nashville's Culture in 2 Days

As a tourist in Nashville, one can experience the vibrant music scene that the city is renowned for. From the Country Music Hall of Fame to the Grand Ole Opry, Nashville offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy live music performances. Additionally, one can explore the city's history through its museums and landmarks, such as the Belle Meade Plantation and the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge.