Experience Nashville: A Three-Day Itinerary

Nashville, the talented Southern city on Tennessee’s Cumberland River, is a vacation spot that seamlessly blends metropolis with the charm of the American heartland. Even if you think you don’t enjoy country music, this soulful city will captivate you with its attractions, amazing food, a nightlife scene filled with stellar live performances, and an impressive selection of top-quality hotels.

Day One

Nashville’s central location makes it an ideal destination for a road trip. However, if you’re flying in to Nashville International Airport, head downtown to the heart of the city. Hotels like Music City Loft and 404 Hotel, located in the Gulch, are within walking distance to your first stop. Nashville offers ample public transportation options, cabs, and rideshares—there’s even a free Joyride shuttle downtown. If you prefer to rent a car, rest assured there is plenty of parking available.

Begin your day at Puckett’s Grocery, a staple since the 1950s that serves breakfast until 11 a.m. Be sure to try the ham steak and eggs with red-eye gravy.

Fueled for the day, walk down Fifth Avenue to Ryman Auditorium, the most famous former home of the Grand Ole Opry, which is just two blocks away. Absorb over a century of American music history in this humble building originally built as a church. After immersing yourself in music culture, head left toward Broadway, where your first stop is the lavender Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, sharing the alley with the Ryman and often hosting Ryman performers after their shows. Spend the afternoon bar-hopping along Honky Tonk Row from Fifth Avenue to the waterfront, and enjoy the best local talent and vibrant performances.

For dinner, make a reservation at Husk, just south of downtown, renowned for chef Sean Brock’s creative use of produce and imaginative dishes, including fried chicken skin, all served in a warm country-house setting.

What to Do in Nashville

Day Two

Kick off your day early with a drive out on Highway 100 to relish Loveless Cafe’s famous fried chicken and biscuits. The ride is worth it, and they serve breakfast all day long.

After breakfast, head back into town for a walking tour along the waterway to the capitol. Start at Riverfront Station and walk along First Avenue past Nissan Stadium and Riverfront Park to Woodland Street. Then take a left toward the nearby Tennessee State Museum. The museum is free and filled with artifacts from Native American stone tools to early settlers’ household items. Continue your walking tour around the Tennessee State Capitol in Victory Park and head north along Capitol Mall, ultimately finding yourself in Germantown, where some of the city’s best pubs and restaurants are emerging.

In Germantown, the City House opens at five, and arriving early is recommended for their stellar wood-fired pizza topped with pork belly and enticing cocktails with names like “Kevin.”

Your final destination for the day is Bluebird Cafe, located outside of town in Green Hills. This intimate venue, seating only 90 guests, often features notable artists like LeAnn Rimes and Keith Urban on any given night. Make sure to reserve your spot at least a week in advance for the nine o’clock seating, and prepare to be entertained by some of America’s most talented songwriters. Subsequently, consider heading to 404 Kitchen for a bourbon tasting to conclude your day.

Day Three

No trip to Music City is complete without savoring Nashville’s famed hot chicken. There are numerous delicious options available. For instance, Hattie B’s, a newer contender, is recognized for its Midtown location and airy atmosphere. However, to truly indulge in authentic Nashville hot chicken, head to the iconic Prince’s Hot Chicken. Make sure to arrive a little before noon to avoid the long lines, and remember that each quarter is served with white bread and a pickle. Don’t hesitate to order the mild if you’re new to the experience.

After lunch, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and participate in the Historic RCA Studio B tour. Here, you’ll step into the historic RCA Studio B, where Elvis Presley recorded over 200 songs, and where artists like Carrie Underwood continue to make magic. Stroll along 16th and 17th Avenues, also known as Music Square East and Music Square West, to dive deep into the heart of America’s music scene, which is filled with record labels, radio stations, and live music venues.

For a laid-back atmosphere with live music, try Tin Roof, which offers various genres and refreshing draft beer. Alternatively, head to Patterson House for craft cocktails and delightful bar bites like shrimp corn dogs, making your Nashville experience unforgettable.