Downtown Nashville
Downtown, Nashville, TN
Downtown Nashville is the energetic heart of Music City, and it's packed with restaurants, bars, cultural hot spots, and the famous Music Row. You can explore major attractions such as the Country Music Hall of Fame, Frist Art Museum, and the historic Ryman Auditorium, or stock up on supplies at Nashville Farmers' Market. After dark, live music fills Honky Tonk Highway—promising an unforgettable taste of Nashville's legendary nightlife.
The basics
With so many attractions, the heart of Nashville deserves a prominent spot on any itinerary in the city. Fortunately, there are plenty of Downtown Nashville tours to choose from.
Explore on foot with a walking tour or hop aboard a horse-drawn carriage for a guided tour of attractions such as the Johnny Cash Museum and Tennessee State Capitol. You can also visit independently on a hop-on hop-off bus sightseeing tour. If you're a night owl, grab a bottle of Jack Daniels and climb aboard a BYOB open-air party bus.
Things to know before you go
Downtown Nashville is a must-visit for music history buffs, night owls, and first-time visitors.
Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to do a fair amount of walking.
Bring some cash for buying drinks and tipping at the downtown bars.
Some downtown venues charge a cover in the evenings, though most of the honky-tonks are free.
How to get there
Downtown Nashville is best experienced with a car, but it's easy to get to via public transportation, too. Take the bus to Music City Central Station or the commuter train to Riverfront Station to find themselves in the heart of the downtown action. Tours are also a good way to get around and save you the hassle of having to find parking.
When to get there
To get a feel for Downtown Nashville, plan to visit during the day to take in the cultural attractions and again at night to experience the famous nightlife (musicians perform pretty much every night of the week). Note that it's a good idea to take a look at who's playing beforehand and get tickets in advance.
Printer’s Alley
Printer's Alley Historic District was the center of the city's printing industry during the early 1900s, and both the Tennessean and the Nashville Banner once had their offices here. The alley transformed into a hot spot for live music in the 1940s, and it remains one of Nashville's best live music spots. Clubs and saloons in Printer's Alley have hosted acts such as Hank Williams, Jimi Hendrix, and The Supremes.
Ways to explore
With so many attractions, the heart of Nashville deserves a prominent spot on any itinerary in the city. Fortunately, there are plenty of Downtown Nashville tours to choose from. Explore on foot with a walking tour or speed up your sightseeing with a golf cart or bus tour. Downtown tours often stop at prominent attractions, such as the Johnny Cash Museum and the Tennessee State Capitol. You can also visit independently on a hop-on hop-off bus sightseeing tour. If you're a night owl, a party bus with a bartender and DJ is a great way to start an evening.
Accessibility
The official visitor center and many popular attractions are accessible to people who use wheelchairs.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Camera, small bag, cash for tips
What to wear
Layered clothing, comfortable footwear, smart-casual clothing for evening visits
Not allowed
Littering, flying drones, disruptive behavior
Amenities
Visitor information center with gift shop, maps, and accessibility services
Address
Downtown Nashville lies at the heart of the city’s entertainment district, centered around Broadway and the Civic Plaza. It’s easily accessible by car, taxi, rideshare, and public transit from most local areas.
Driving
From the Nashville International Airport, take I-40 east to Broadway, then proceed downtown. Parking is available in municipal garages, though traffic and event crowds can make driving slow—rideshare may be simpler.
Public transportation
Traveling by public transportation is easy and convenient. There are bus stops throughout downtown, such as Nos. 64, 90, or 93, which stop near Broadway and First Avenue.
Best times to visit
Visit Downtown Nashville in late morning to avoid afternoon crowds, or at night for nightlife and live music.
Best days to visit
Weekdays are recommended if you want to escape the crowds, especially at bars, which can get busy Fridays through Sundays.
Best months to visit
Nashville is a great spot to visit in spring or fall (April through May or September through October) when the weather is nice but crowds aren’t at their peak.
Special events
Come in June for CMA Fest, a huge multi-day country music festival.
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