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First-timer highlights

3 Days in Nashville — First-Timer Highlights

highlights country-music food city-break history
Length
3 days
Stops
15
Destination
Dates
Guests 1 room, 1 adults, 0 children
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What this plan covers

This itinerary is crafted for first-time visitors eager to experience the true spirit of Nashville. From legendary music venues and historic landmarks to vibrant culinary scenes and lively entertainment, you'll discover why Nashville is known as Music City. Perfect for anyone looking to soak in the culture, history, and unmistakable energy of this unique American city.

Culture 5 Activity 1 Nightlife 2 Sightseeing 1 Nature 1 Food 3 Viewpoint 1 Shopping 1

Opening hours, prices and routes can change, so check the details before you set off.

Day 1 5 stops · about 11 hrs
1

Ryman Auditorium

Culture 1.5 hours

Explore the 'Mother Church of Country Music,' a legendary venue that has hosted countless iconic performances and shaped music history.

Good to know

Consider a self-guided tour or book a backstage tour to delve deeper into its storied past; check website for tour times.

2

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Culture 3 hours

Immerse yourself in the comprehensive history of country music, from its origins to today's superstars, with fascinating exhibits and artifacts.

Good to know

Allocate ample time to explore all exhibits; tickets can be purchased online to save time upon arrival.

3

Broadway Honky Tonks

Activity 2 hours

Experience the vibrant energy of Nashville's Lower Broadway, where live music spills from every bar from morning till late night.

Good to know

Walk along Broadway during the day to soak in the atmosphere and grab lunch; most venues do not have a cover charge during daylight hours.

4

The Johnny Cash Museum

Culture 1.5 hours

Discover the life and legacy of the 'Man in Black' through an impressive collection of memorabilia, costumes, and personal items.

Good to know

Located conveniently downtown, it's a manageable size for an afternoon visit; tickets are available at the door or online.

5

Dinner & Live Music on Broadway

Nightlife 3 hours

Conclude your first day by dining at a classic Nashville eatery and enjoying authentic live country music in one of the many honky tonks.

Good to know

Many venues offer food and drink; arrive earlier for dinner to secure a good spot before the evening crowds.

Day 2 5 stops · about 8.5 hrs
6

The Parthenon at Centennial Park

Sightseeing 1.5 hours

Marvel at the world's only full-scale replica of the ancient Greek Parthenon, complete with a towering statue of Athena.

Good to know

Explore the art museum inside the Parthenon and take a stroll around Centennial Park afterwards; parking is available nearby.

7

Centennial Park

Nature 1 hour

Enjoy a leisurely walk in this beautiful urban park surrounding the Parthenon, a perfect spot for relaxation and people-watching.

Good to know

Ideal for a morning stroll; look for various public art installations and the scenic lake.

8

Hattie B's Hot Chicken (Midtown)

Food 1.5 hours

Savor Nashville's iconic hot chicken at one of its most famous establishments, offering various heat levels for every palate.

Good to know

Expect a line, especially during peak lunch hours; consider ordering online for pickup if available to save time.

9

RCA Studio B

Culture 1.5 hours

Step back in time into the legendary recording studio where Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, and countless others recorded their hits.

Good to know

Tours are only available through the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and depart by shuttle; book well in advance as spots are limited.

10

Grand Ole Opry

Nightlife 3 hours

Experience a live performance at the show that made country music famous, featuring a mix of legends and contemporary stars.

Good to know

Book tickets far in advance, especially for weekend shows; consider a backstage tour for a behind-the-scenes look.

Day 3 5 stops · about 8.8 hrs
11

John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

Viewpoint 45 minutes

Capture breathtaking panoramic views of the Nashville skyline and the Cumberland River from this iconic pedestrian bridge.

Good to know

Accessible from downtown, it's perfect for a morning photo opportunity; wear comfortable shoes for the walk.

12

The Gulch

Shopping 2 hours

Explore this trendy, upscale neighborhood known for its vibrant murals, boutique shops, and diverse culinary scene.

Good to know

Wander the streets to discover street art, unique boutiques, and coffee shops; paid parking garages are available.

13

Biscuit Love (The Gulch)

Food 1.5 hours

Indulge in creative and delicious biscuit-centric dishes at a beloved Nashville brunch and lunch spot.

Good to know

Expect a wait, especially on weekends; arrive early or during off-peak hours for a better chance at a table.

14

Marathon Village

Culture 2 hours

Discover a unique collection of shops, art galleries, and the Antique Archaeology store housed in a historic automobile factory.

Good to know

Free parking is available; allow time to browse the diverse shops and perhaps grab a coffee.

15

Dinner in 12 South

Food 2.5 hours

Enjoy a final Nashville meal in the charming 12 South neighborhood, offering a relaxed atmosphere and excellent dining options.

Good to know

This walkable neighborhood has many highly-rated restaurants; reservations are recommended for popular spots, especially on weekends.

Where to stay

Hotels in Nashville

Book direct on our own Nashville hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.

Things to book

Tours and activities in Nashville

Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.

Keep planning

More Nashville itineraries

Other ways to spend a few days in Nashville, from our own travel research.

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