Nashville, Tennessee, is a city perfect for a long weekend getaway with plenty to see and experience, from American history to all things music. This sample itinerary shows you how to maximize your time over a long weekend.
Established in 1779, Nashville isn’t only Tennessee’s historic gem; it’s a vibrant hub known worldwide as “Music City.” Snug on the Cumberland River, this locale marries tradition with modern flair, famously hosting the beat of country music’s heart.
Warm welcomes are a staple here. Nashville’s energetic student community, stemming from its array of higher education institutions, injects vibrancy into the city. Tourist favorites range from the hallowed halls of the Country Music Hall of Fame to the iconic Grand Ole Opry House. Plus, the Johnny Cash Museum offers a slice of music history that’s as authentic as it gets.
Meanwhile, Nashville’s art scene is blossoming. Art museums and galleries pepper the city, showcasing a cultural renaissance that’s as rhythmic as the tunes from Broadway’s honky-tonks. Hence, the city’s cultural tapestry is as rich and varied as its musical anthology.
Additionally, Nashville’s safety accolades, courtesy of the World Travel & Tourism Council, ensure visitors explore with confidence. Consequently, the city’s allure extends beyond music, encompassing a sense of security and Southern hospitality.
Nashville encapsulates a diverse experience, a city where every season sings its praises. It’s a place that promises new discoveries, resonating with each return visit, ensuring the melody of Nashville remains evergreen in its visitors’ memories.
The District
Situated in the heart of downtown, The District is a vibrant and a total fun area. Here you will find countless bars and restaurants that are all devoted to country music. In addition, there are long-standing stores selling western wear or vintage vinyl, cafes, ice cream and candy stores located here too. All you need to do is to dive into the country feeling.
The District is home to the Johnny Cash Museum and the Patsy Cline Museum. The stretch of Broadway from the Ryman Auditorium to the riverfront is known as the Honky Tonk Highway, where the honky tonks stay open until 3:00 AM every night and don’t charge a cover for their live music.
Belle Meade Sightseeing or Segway Tour
Explore Belle Meade Plantation. This is the original home of the Harding and Jackson family that is most famous for horse breeding and horse racing. You can learn more about that way of life as well as the stories of the families on the mansion tour. But don’t stop there. Be sure to take the Journey to Jubilee tour also as it tells the stories of the enslaved African Americans that helped shape Belle Meade through the years up to emancipation.
Enjoy a southern meal at the Belle Meade Meat & Three restaurant before heading to the airport for your evening flight home.
Nashville, Tennessee – Top 11
Nashville is a fantastic destination for a weekend getaway. Make sure to wear some comfy shoes to see all the attractions and later dance the night away in the Honky Tonks of The District and Broadway. Load up on country music trivia by visiting the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum, and the Grand Ole Opry and finally take a few Instagram pics at the Walk of Fame Park.
Day 1
Arrive in Nashville
Upon arrival, grab your bags and rental car then head to your hotel. Note that you can get around with taxis or an Uber but a rental car will be best for easy access to all the historic sites throughout town.
Kick off your long weekend with a step back in time at The Hermitage, home of President Andrew Jackson. See how “The People’s President” lived, enjoy the gardens and the mansion. While you are on the eastern side of town, tonight will be the perfect time to take in a show at the Grand Ole Opry paired with a behind-the-scenes tour. Stand in the same circle where some of the greatest music legends have stood.
Day 2
Grab some breakfast before you head out to make the most of your day by starting at the Tennessee state capitol. It’s a fun way to understand the area’s history and how things are managed. History buffs may also enjoy the Tennessee State Museum and the World War II Memorial located in the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. Next door is the Nashville Farmers’ Market where you can find lunch in one of the many shops. Or those that like a kick can grab some Hattie B’s Nashville hot chicken.
After lunch, it is time to step into the world of music for which Nashville is so famous. We suggest you start with the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum where you can explore the history of recorded music and the many Grammy winners through the years.
Then head over to the Honky Tonk Highway with a stop at the National Museum of African American Music. You know it will be a good time with a motto of “One Nation Under a Groove” as you discover how so many music genres have been influenced by African Americans.
Be sure to also wander over to the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge at the end of the Honky Tonk Highway to take in some great views of the Nashville skyline before you grab dinner. Tonight is also a great time to see how the Honky Tonk Highway comes to life in the evening and see different styles of music.
Consider the Gray Line Nashville City Tour
Sights include:
This must-do tour is great for guests on a short visit and for locals looking to see the new Nashville. The Nashville City Tour was specifically designed to showcase Nashville’s best features in only one hour on our open-air double-deckers.
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