2-day itinerary for Nashville

Planning a weekend getaway can be tricky when you want to see the best of Nashville in just two days. Did you know that Nashville is known as “Music City” and is home to some of the most famous live music venues in the country? This guide highlights top attractions, food spots, and entertainment options for an easy-to-follow 2-day itinerary for Nashville. Check out how you can make every hour count!

Key Takeaways

• Nashville is known as “Music City” and features famous sites like Country Music Hall of Fame, The Ryman Auditorium, and over 80 stars at Music City Walk of Fame Park.
• Day 1 includes sightseeing, shopping, lunch at Acme Feed and Seed, and nightlife with drinks or live shows at venues such as City Winery.
• Day 2 highlights include coffee and music at The Listening Room Cafe, a guided tour of the historic Ryman Auditorium (opened in 1892), and time spent at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge on Broadway.
• Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are the best times to visit for mild weather; major events like CMA Fest occur in June.
• You can get to Nashville easily through Nashville International Airport (BNA). Once there, use taxis, rideshares, public buses, walking routes or bike rentals to reach attractions.

Why Nashville is a must-visit destination

Nashville stands out as Music City, famous for its live music venues and historic sites. The city is home to legendary attractions like the Country Music Hall of Fame and The Ryman Auditorium.

It offers a mix of sightseeing, shopping districts, and local cuisine that brings people from around the world.

Visitors can enjoy entertainment on Broadway’s bustling strip or discover cultural experiences in various museums. Families find many family-friendly activities while food lovers explore top restaurants serving Southern dishes.

Nashville’s unique blend of history, culture, and nightlife makes it an exciting weekend getaway destination all year round.

Day 1: Top Attractions, Shopping, and Nightlife

Nashville offers a vibrant mix of attractions, shopping options, and thrilling nightlife on your first day. Start with a stroll through Music City Walk of Fame Park to soak in the rich musical history before heading to unique shops and lively venues nearby.

Visit Music City Walk of Fame Park

Music City Walk of Fame Park showcases Nashville’s rich musical heritage. It features more than 80 stars embedded in the ground, representing music legends from various genres, including country and rock.

You can stroll through the park while enjoying interactive exhibits that celebrate iconic artists. Be sure to take pictures with your favorite stars as you explore.

After a day filled with sightseeing and attractions, indulge in lunch at Acme Feed and Seed.

Lunch at Acme Feed and Seed

After exploring Music City Walk of Fame Park, head over to Acme Feed and Seed for lunch. This vibrant eatery offers a taste of local cuisine in a fun atmosphere. Enjoy delicious dishes like fried catfish or their famous brisket sandwich.

You can also savor fresh salads and vegetarian options. The rooftop bar provides great views of the Nashville skyline.

Acme Feed and Seed is close to many Nashville attractions, making it an excellent spot for tourists. Live music often fills the space, adding energy to your dining experience. Don’t miss out on this lively venue during your 2-day itinerary for Nashville.

Drinks and a show at City Winery

After lunch at Acme Feed and Seed, head to City Winery for drinks and a live show. This venue combines great wine with fantastic music in an intimate setting. You can enjoy local wines while listening to talented artists perform.

The atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, making it perfect for a night out.

City Winery often features diverse acts across various genres. Check their schedule before your visit to see who is playing during your stay. Enjoying a drink while soaking up the sounds of Music City makes for an unforgettable experience in Nashville nightlife.

Day 2: Museums, Current Events, and Restaurants

On Day 2, enjoy a coffee and live performance at The Listening Room Cafe before exploring The Ryman Auditorium’s rich history. Then, unwind with a drink at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge as you soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Discover more about Nashville’s cultural gems!

Start with a cup of coffee and a show at The Listening Room Cafe

Start your day at The Listening Room Cafe, a famous spot in Nashville. Sip on freshly brewed coffee and enjoy live music from talented artists. This venue celebrates the heart of Music City.

You can listen to original songs written by up-and-coming musicians while savoring delicious breakfast options.

The cafe offers an inviting atmosphere that attracts many visitors. It serves as a great place for locals and tourists alike. The intimate setting allows you to connect with the music in a unique way.

After your meal, you will feel energized and ready to explore more of Nashville’s attractions.

Tour The Ryman Auditorium

The Ryman Auditorium stands as a historic gem in Nashville. Known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” this venue has hosted countless legendary artists since its opening in 1892.

Visitors can explore its rich history through a guided tour, which highlights key moments and significant performances.

You will want to admire its stunning architecture and learn about famous musicians like Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton who graced the stage. The auditorium also features exhibitions that celebrate Nashville’s vibrant music scene.

This attraction offers an authentic glimpse into live music culture, making it a must-see on your itinerary for Nashville.

Grab a drink at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge buzzes with energy. Located on Broadway, this iconic bar offers a true taste of Nashville nightlife. Grab a drink and soak in the vibrant atmosphere filled with country music.

The venue features live performances from both up-and-coming artists and seasoned musicians. It’s an excellent spot for those who love the local scene.

Enjoy classic cocktails or try some regional brews while you relax here. Tootsie’s serves as a historic gathering place, connecting visitors to Nashville’s musical roots. After grabbing drinks, you’ll want to visit The Ryman Auditorium for an unforgettable concert experience next.

Tips for Planning Your 2-Day Nashville Itinerary

Choose the right time to visit Nashville. The city offers many festivals and events throughout the year, making it lively and exciting.

When is the best time to visit Nashville?

Nashville welcomes visitors year-round, but spring and fall offer the best weather. In March through May, blooming flowers create a beautiful backdrop. The temperatures rise to a pleasant range of 60s to 80s.

Autumn also draws crowds with its mild weather and vibrant foliage. From September to November, temperatures typically hover from the mid-70s to low 50s.

Summer can be hot and humid in Music City, while winter brings cooler air with occasional snow. If you enjoy live music events and festivals, plan your visit around special occasions like CMA Fest in June or the Nashville Film Festival in April.

Exploring local cuisine shines during these vibrant seasons too. Enjoy Nashville attractions as nature puts on a show for visitors throughout these months ahead of your itinerary for museums and restaurants on Day 2.

How to get to Nashville

Getting to Nashville is simple and convenient. Major airlines serve the city, with Nashville International Airport (BNA) at its center. You can find direct flights from many cities across the country.

This makes it easy for tourists to plan a weekend getaway or an extended stay.

Once you land, various transportation options await you. Rental cars provide flexibility for sightseeing and exploring attractions like Music City Walk of Fame Park or historic venues such as The Ryman Auditorium.

Ride-sharing services also offer quick access to restaurants and nightlife spots like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge and City Winery. Enjoy your time in Music City!

Getting around the city

After you arrive in Nashville, plan how to explore the city. Several options make travel easy and convenient. Taxis and rideshares like Uber and Lyft are available throughout the area.

Public buses also run regularly, connecting major attractions.

Walking lets you soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Music City while discovering local shops and restaurants. Many top sites fall within walking distance from each other, making it simple for tourists to enjoy sightseeing without needing a car.

Consider renting a bike or using scooters for added convenience when visiting Nashville attractions. This city offers many transportation methods that suit any traveler’s needs during their weekend getaway.

Other Ideas for Your Nashville Itinerary

Explore different themes for your Nashville adventure. Tailor your experience to fit music, action, or unique local sights.

The Music Lover’s Itinerary

Nashville offers a dream itinerary for music lovers. Start your day at the Country Music Hall of Fame, where you can see exhibits on famous artists and historic memorabilia. After that, head to RCA Studio B for a guided tour.

This studio has recorded hits by legends like Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton.

Spend your afternoon exploring live music venues around the city. Visit The Bluebird Cafe; many aspiring musicians perform there. Enjoy dinner at one of Nashville’s renowned restaurants like Merchants or Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, which showcases local cuisine.

Wrap up your night with a concert at one of Nashville’s iconic spots such as The Grand Ole Opry or City Winery, experiencing vibrant nightlife in Music City.

The Action Junkie’s Itinerary

After exploring the Music Lover’s Itinerary, consider The Action Junkie’s Itinerary for your Nashville adventure. This plan offers excitement and thrills around every corner.

Start with an adrenaline rush at Nashville Zipline. Soar above the trees for stunning views of the city while feeling the wind on your face. Next, try a bike rental to explore scenic trails along Shelby Bottoms Greenway.

Grab lunch at a food truck to refuel before heading to Topgolf for some fun swings and games in a lively setting. In the evening, experience some live music at The Basement East; this venue is perfect for discovering new talent each night.

Each activity showcases what makes Nashville a must-visit destination for action seekers looking to soak up its vibrant culture.

The Unique Experiences Itinerary

Explore Nashville’s unique experiences itinerary for a memorable weekend getaway. Start your day with a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame, where you can discover the history of country music through various exhibits.

Afterward, take a guided tour of Historic RCA Studio B; this studio shaped sounds that changed American music.

For lunch, try Hattie B’s Hot Chicken. Enjoy flavorful Nashville hot chicken while immersing yourself in local cuisine culture. In the evening, attend a live show at The Grand Ole Opry and experience true entertainment from world-class artists.

These iconic venues highlight why Nashville is one of the top attractions for those seeking cultural experiences and vibrant nightlife.

Suggestions for extending your stay in Nashville

The Unique Experiences Itinerary gives you a taste of Nashville’s charm. To extend your stay, consider exploring surrounding areas like Franklin and Murfreesboro. Both towns offer historic sites and unique shops.

Nashville attractions include the Grand Ole Opry for more live music or Cheekwood Estate & Gardens for beautiful landscapes. Enjoy local cuisine at hot chicken spots or trendy cafes in East Nashville.

Spend time visiting museums to learn more about the city’s rich culture. Plan day trips to nearby parks for hiking adventures or scenic views. These ideas enhance your weekend getaway while immersing you in Music City vibes.

FAQs

1. What are the top Nashville attractions to visit during a 2-day itinerary for Nashville?

You should see key landmarks like the Country Music Hall of Fame, Ryman Auditorium, and Centennial Park. These sites highlight Music City’s history and culture.

2. Where can I experience live music venues and nightlife in Nashville on a weekend getaway?

Visit Lower Broadway for famous entertainment spots with local musicians performing nightly. This district is known for its vibrant nightlife and live country music.

3. Which historic sites or cultural experiences should families include in their travel guide?

Families will enjoy touring Belle Meade Historic Site, exploring The Parthenon replica at Centennial Park, and visiting museums dedicated to country music legends.

4. What food and dining options showcase local cuisine during my sightseeing tour?

Try hot chicken at well-known eateries, sample barbecue from classic restaurants, or dine in shopping districts featuring Southern dishes unique to Nashville.

5. Are there familyfriendly activities or tours that combine sightseeing with shopping districts?

Yes; take guided city tours that stop by popular shopping areas like 12South while including stops at major attractions so everyone enjoys both entertainment and retail therapy together.