Downtown Nashville: The Heartbeat of Music City

Discover Downtown Nashville: A dynamic blend of musical heritage, vibrant nightlife, and Southern hospitality in the heart of Music City.

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Downtown Nashville

Welcome to Downtown Nashville, the vibrant core of Tennessee's capital city, known globally as Music City. This bustling neighborhood is the epicenter of the country music scene, where the sounds of guitars and fiddles fill the air, and the spirit of southern hospitality is ever-present. From the iconic Honky Tonk Highway on Broadway, lined with neon-lit bars and live music venues, to the historic Ryman Auditorium, often referred to as the 'Mother Church of Country Music,' Downtown Nashville offers a unique blend of rich musical heritage and modern entertainment. Don't miss the Country Music Hall of Fame, where you can immerse yourself in the history of the genre and its legendary artists. Beyond its musical roots, Downtown Nashville boasts a dynamic culinary scene with numerous restaurants serving everything from traditional Southern comfort food to innovative fusion cuisine. Stroll through the bustling Farmers' Market, explore the vibrant arts scene at the Frist Art Museum, or take a relaxing walk along the scenic Riverfront Park. Whether you're here to dance the night away or soak in the local culture, Downtown Nashville promises an unforgettable experience.

Local tips in Downtown Nashville

Visit during the week to avoid the weekend crowds, especially on Broadway.
Wear comfortable shoes as the best way to explore is on foot.
Check out the free live music shows at the many honky-tonk bars.
Make reservations in advance for popular attractions like the Ryman Auditorium and Country Music Hall of Fame.
Take advantage of the free Music City Circuit buses to get around downtown.

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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Honky Tonk Highway

Discover the lively Honky Tonk Highway in Nashville, where live music, delectable Southern cuisine, and an unforgettable atmosphere await every visitor.

Fort Negley

Explore the rich history of Nashville at Fort Negley, a stunning fortress and museum that offers a unique glimpse into the Civil War era.

Fort Nashborough

Explore the rich history of Nashville at Fort Nashborough, a reconstructed 18th-century fort showcasing the city's early frontier life and culture.

2nd Avenue Historic District

Discover the historical charm and lively entertainment of Nashville's 2nd Avenue Historic District, a vibrant hub of music, food, and culture.

Historic Travellers Rest Historic House Museum

Explore Nashville's rich history at the Historic Travellers Rest, a local museum showcasing 19th-century life and architecture in Tennessee.

Shy's Hill

Discover Shy's Hill, a serene historic site in Nashville offering breathtaking views and rich stories of the past, perfect for every traveler.

The Savage House

Discover the rich heritage of Nashville at The Savage House, a captivating historical landmark that brings the past to life.

Andrew Jackson Statue

Discover the Andrew Jackson Statue in Nashville, a stunning tribute to American history and the legacy of the seventh President of the United States.

Customs House Nashville

Discover the grandeur of Nashville’s Customs House, a historical landmark showcasing the city’s rich past and stunning architectural beauty.

Historic Commercial Structure - Broadway Historic District

Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of Nashville's Historic Commercial Structure in the Broadway Historic District.

Unmissable attractions to see

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

Discover Tennessee's history and beauty at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, a scenic and educational oasis in the heart of Nashville.

Nashville Public Square Park

Discover Nashville Public Square Park: a lush urban oasis with stunning sights, historical landmarks, and vibrant local culture in the heart of Music City.

Walk of Fame Park

Experience the spirit of Nashville at Walk of Fame Park, where music legends are honored and the city’s vibrant culture comes alive.

Escape Experience - Nashville Escape Games (Downtown)

Experience the excitement of Escape Experience in Nashville, where teamwork and adventure come together in thrilling escape room challenges.

2nd Avenue Historic District

Discover the rich history and lively atmosphere of Nashville's 2nd Avenue Historic District, where culture, music, and culinary delights await every visitor.

Nashville downtown

Experience the vibrant culture and rich musical heritage of Downtown Nashville, the heart of Music City, with iconic attractions and lively nightlife.

Essential places to dine

Puckett's Restaurant - Downtown Nashville

Experience authentic Southern cuisine and live music at Puckett's Restaurant in Downtown Nashville - a family-friendly gem!

Acme Feed & Seed

Discover the heart of Nashville at Acme Feed & Seed - where Southern cuisine meets live music in a vibrant setting.

Robert's Western World

Discover Robert's Western World: A lively restaurant and live music bar in Nashville offering delicious Southern cuisine and unforgettable entertainment.

Assembly Food Hall

Experience Nashville's vibrant food scene at Assembly Food Hall with diverse cuisines and live music in a lively atmosphere.

The Stillery

Discover The Stillery: A Nashville treasure offering American cuisine with a Southern twist in a vibrant setting.

The Twelve Thirty Club

Discover The Twelve Thirty Club: A premier American dining experience with live music in Nashville's vibrant nightlife.

Rolf and Daughters

Discover innovative New American cuisine at Rolf and Daughters in Germantown - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

The Standard

Discover The Standard: Nashville's premier steakhouse blending fine dining with vibrant nightlife for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Black Rabbit

Discover Nashville's culinary gem at Black Rabbit - where local flavors meet live music in an unforgettable dining experience.

The Treehouse

Experience culinary innovation at The Treehouse in East Nashville, where American comfort food meets creative cocktails in a stylish setting.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Legends Gifts

Explore Legends Gifts, Nashville's vibrant hub for unique souvenirs and music memorabilia, capturing the essence of Music City.

White's Mercantile 12 South

Explore White's Mercantile: A Nashville treasure trove of unique gifts, local goods, and Southern charm in the heart of 12 South.

Market Street Mercantile

Explore Market Street Mercantile in Nashville for unique gifts and local treasures reflecting the vibrant culture and artistry of the city.

Bits & Pieces Antique Boutique

Explore Bits & Pieces Antique Boutique in Nashville for a unique selection of vintage treasures, clothing, and home decor that captures history's essence.

Abode Mercantile

Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Abode Mercantile, your go-to shop in East Nashville for home goods, candles, and greeting cards.

Ten Thousand Villages

Discover unique, ethically sourced gifts at Ten Thousand Villages in Nashville, a treasure trove of handmade treasures from around the world.

The Music City Shop at Bridgestone Arena

Discover Nashville's musical heritage at The Music City Shop, where unique memorabilia and local artisan crafts await every visitor.

Keep Shop

Explore Keep Shop in Nashville for unique gifts and local crafts, celebrating the creativity of local artisans in a charming downtown setting.

Circa the Museum Store

Explore Circa the Museum Store in Nashville for exclusive music-themed gifts, unique souvenirs, and a taste of Tennessee's rich musical heritage.

It's A Nashville Thing Y'all

Explore a vibrant clothing store that captures Nashville's unique style and musical heritage, offering trendy apparel and local souvenirs.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Tootsies Orchid Lounge

Experience the lively atmosphere of Tootsies Orchid Lounge, a must-visit bar and live music venue in Nashville's vibrant Music City.

Whiskey Bent Saloon

Immerse yourself in Nashville's vibrant nightlife at Whiskey Bent Saloon, the ultimate destination for live music and Southern hospitality.

Fleet Street Pub

Discover Fleet Street Pub, a charming British-style pub in Nashville's Printer's Alley, known for its delicious food, vibrant atmosphere, and extensive drink selection.

The Patterson House

Discover the charm of Nashville's speakeasy culture at The Patterson House, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

Doc Holliday's Saloon

Discover the heart of Nashville's nightlife at Doc Holliday's Saloon, where live music and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.

Bar Sovereign

Discover the lively ambiance and crafted cocktails at Bar Sovereign, a premier bar in Nashville's vibrant Sobro neighborhood.

Rare Bird

Discover the breathtaking views and vibrant atmosphere of Rare Bird Rooftop Bar in Nashville, where unforgettable evenings meet stunning skyline views.

Hidden Bar at Noelle

Experience the allure of a hidden speakeasy at Noelle's Hidden Bar, where innovative cocktails meet the heart of Nashville's nightlife.

Gertie's Whiskey Bar - Nashville

Experience the heart of Nashville at Gertie's Whiskey Bar, where exceptional whiskey meets delightful American cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere.

The Bridge Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Nashville at The Bridge Bar, offering delicious cuisine and stunning views in a lively atmosphere.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Downtown Nashville

Discover Downtown Nashville with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloHowdy
  [hah-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yah]
- YesYup
  [yuhp]
- NoNah
  [nuh]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no pro-blem]
- Thank youThanks
  [thaynks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dn mee/my bad]
- How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [hao yahl doo-in]
- Fine. And you?Good. And you?
  [gud. and yoo]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speak ing-glish]
- I don't understandI don't git it
  [ah dohnt git it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLet me see the menu, please
  [let mee see the meh-nyoo, pleez]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [ah dohnt eet meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'll pay now, please
  [ahyl pay now, pleez]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Git!
  [git]
- Call the Police!Call the Cops!
  [call the cops]
- Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [call a doc]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [ahm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [ahm sik]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [ah wanna buy]
- I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [ahm just lookin]
- How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [hao much duz it cost]
- That's too expensiveThat's too pricey
  [thats too prahy-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya lower the price?
  [can yah lo-er the prahys]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its wun]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [haf past ten]
- MorningMorning
  [mornin]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [evenin]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yesserday]
- TodayToday
  [today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [tomorrow]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats the address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me (on the map)?
  [can yah show me (on the map)]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to)]

History of Downtown Nashville

Downtown Nashville was founded in 1779 by James Robertson and John Donelson, who were among the first settlers in the area. The city was named after Francis Nash, a general in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. Its strategic location along the Cumberland River made it an ideal spot for trade and transportation, facilitating early growth as a commercial hub.
During the Civil War, Nashville's strategic value as a transportation center led to it being the first Confederate state capital to fall to Union forces in February 1862. This event marked a turning point in the war and established Nashville as a significant military supply depot, leading to a rapid transformation of the downtown area due to the influx of Union troops and resources.
In the early 20th century, Nashville began to earn the nickname 'Music City.' The establishment of the Grand Ole Opry in 1925 solidified its status as the heart of country music. Downtown Nashville became a vibrant cultural district, attracting musicians and audiences alike, leading to the development of numerous theaters, bars, and music venues that still define the area today.
In the early 2000s, Downtown Nashville underwent significant revitalization, with the restoration of historic buildings and the development of new attractions. The completion of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in 2001 and the emergence of the Nashville Sounds baseball team have contributed to a renewed interest in the area. This period has seen an explosion of tourism and a flourishing arts scene.
Today, Downtown Nashville is a bustling hub of activity, known for its vibrant nightlife, cultural festivals, and culinary scene. The area hosts the annual Nashville Film Festival and the CMA Music Festival, further establishing its reputation as a cultural epicenter. The blend of historic and modern architecture, including the iconic AT&T Building and the restored Ryman Auditorium, showcases Nashville's rich history while embracing contemporary developments.

Downtown Nashville Essentials

Downtown Nashville is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Nashville. If you are coming from the airport, the Nashville International Airport (BNA) is about 8 miles away. You can take a taxi, rideshare service, or the WeGo Public Transit bus service (Route 18) directly to downtown. From other neighborhoods, you can use the same bus service, or opt for rideshare options. The downtown area is also well-served by major highways, making it easy to drive in.
Downtown Nashville is pedestrian-friendly, and many attractions are within walking distance. The WeGo Public Transit bus system serves the area, providing convenient access to surrounding neighborhoods. Bicycles can be rented through various bike-sharing programs, such as Nashville B-Cycle. For a unique experience, explore the area on a scooter, available through various rental apps. Taxis and rideshare services are also readily available.
Downtown Nashville is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to exercise caution, particularly at night. Areas to be cautious in include parts of East Nashville and near the outskirts of downtown, where crime rates can be higher. Always stay aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas, and keep your belongings close. It's advisable to travel in groups whenever possible, especially at night.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. For non-emergency police matters, you can contact the Nashville Metro Police Department. There are several hospitals in and around downtown, including Vanderbilt University Medical Center and TriStar Centennial Medical Center. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers emergency medical situations.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and footwear; Nashville is a casual city. Don't wear overly formal attire unless attending a specific event. Religion: Do respect the local customs when visiting churches or religious sites. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to those in need. Don't talk loudly or consume food and drinks on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a warm smile and friendly 'hello.' Don’t assume familiarity; wait for them to initiate conversation. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like hot chicken and BBQ. Don’t engage in excessive drinking in public spaces; it’s frowned upon.
To experience Downtown Nashville like a local, visit the vibrant farmer's market at the Nashville Farmers' Market for fresh produce and local goods. Attend free live music events at venues like the honky-tonks on Broadway in the evening. Engage with locals at neighborhood coffee shops, such as Crema or Barista Parlor. Explore the lesser-known cafes and eateries to avoid tourist traps and enjoy authentic Southern cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to walk along the Cumberland River for scenic views.

Downtown Nashville: The Heartbeat of Music City

Local tips in Downtown Nashville