Nashville has become a hot spot for foodies, traveling families, bachelorette parties — you name it! Whether you’re a die-hard music fan, history lover, or just in the mood for some good eats, Music City promises a good time for travelers of all ages. In 2023, Nashville saw a record number of visitors at 16.8 million, according to data from the Nashville Convention and Visitors Corp.
If you have just 24 hours to spend in this Southern haven, look no further than this insider guide to make the most of your visit. From endless live music on Broadway, to trying some of the nation’s best barbecue, Nashville is buzzing and waiting to be explored.
8:30 a.m. – Coffee
Let’s start from the very beginning – kick off your morning in Music City with coffee! These local favorites are sure to satisfy your caffeine cravings, and fuel the adventurous day ahead of you.
- Poindexter: Step into the enchanting world of a Dolly Parton-inspired hotel coffee shop and treat yourself to one of their signature lattes.
- Retrograde Coffee: You can’t beat their homemade sourdough bagels, paired with an expansive list of coffee and tea options.
- Crema Coffee Roasters: With a range of organic coffee options, this local roaster has multiple locations around Music City.
- Benji’s Bagel & Coffee House: This hot and new business has crowds of customers at their doors almost every morning for their coffee drinks and New York-style bagels. We promise, it’s worth the wait!
- Cocorico: Pair your caffeine with some authentic French pastries.
10 AM – Sightseeing
No visit to Nashville would be complete without diving into the rich history of country music. Step into the past with a tour of the Grand Ole Opry, where you’ll uncover legendary tales of Music City, and explore the iconic country music stage. We also recommend checking out the National Museum of African American Music or the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
12 p.m. – Lunch
From finger-lickin’ barbecue joints to hidden gems serving up Southern goodies, Nashville’s dining scene is a feast for every palate. Dive into a delicious lunch at one of these spots, beloved by visitors and locals alike.
- Peg Leg Porker: This Nashville favorite was recently named one of the top BBQ spots in the country by Yelp. Stop in to find out why!
- Ladybird Taco: From tasty tacos to fresh salads, Ladybird is a great place to grab a midday bite.
- The Finch: Described as “elegant yet approachable,” Yelpers love The Finch for its big flavors, served all day long.
- Assembly Food Hall: Think food trucks, but indoors. Delight in some of Nashille’s best quick lunch spots, located right on Broadway.
- Little Hat’s Italian Market: This little lunch spot tucked away in Germantown serves up some of the tastiest Italian food in the city.
2 p.m. – Shopping
We hope you left room in your suitcase, because Nashville is a shopper’s paradise. Whether you’re strolling through charming boutiques in 12 South, or diving into the vibrant energy of Green Hills Mall, get ready to shop till you drop.
- 12 South: Wander around the beautiful 12 South neighborhood for cute shops selling everything from personalized jewelry to trendy clothing.
- Hillsboro Village: From quality shopping, to fresh food and hot coffee, Hillsboro Village is the perfect place for shoppers, foodies, and travelers alike.
- The Mall at Green Hills: Find familiar stores and much more at this shopping destination in West Nashville.
- L&L Market: From flowers to fashion, this indoor market in West Nashville is sure to have a souvenir to remind you of your trip to Music City.
- Nashville Farmers’ Market: Eager to try some of Nashville’s favorite small businesses and vendors? The Nashville Farmers market is a must-visit for locals and travelers alike.
3 p.m. – Midday Pick-Me-Up
Whether you’re sipping cocktails on the rooftop of the Dolly-themed White Limozeen, or exploring all three three levels of the Broadway bar inspired by Kid Rock, Nashville promises to keep you boot scootin’ and boogying all day long.
- White Limozeen: Perched atop the Graduate Hotel, White Limozeen is a glamorous rooftop bar that offers breathtaking views of Nashville’s skyline.
- Kid Rock’s Big Honky Tonk: Rock ‘N’ Roll meets Southern hospitality at this Broadway bar and restaurant.
- Coral Club: One of Music City’s hottest new bars, stop into Coral Club for classy cocktails and beachy vibes.
- The Twelve Thirty Club: This exclusive rooftop venue is right off of Broadway, and is perfect for an afternoon beverage.
- Rosemary & Beauty Queen: Tucked away in East Nashville, Rosemary & Beauty Queen is a cozy neighborhood bar known for its seasonal cocktails.
6 p.m. – Dinner
Nashville dazzles at dinnertime, offering everything from exquisite steak dinners to outstanding Mexican cuisine. Explore some of our top picks for a memorable dining experience, and don’t forget to fuel up if you’re planning to spend time on Broadway later.
- Pelato: Brooklyn-style Italian food finds a new home in Nashville at Pelato. Yelpers love the espresso martinis and the “Big Arancini.”
- Bourbon Steak: Located inside the JW Marriott Nashville, Bourbon Steak is an upscale steakhouse with prime cuts of beef and a variety of bourbon cocktails.
- Saint Anejo: This stylish eatery in The Gulch offers a modern take on Mexican cuisine, featuring standout dishes like gourmet tacos and an array of chips and dips.
- Virago: Celebrated for its sleek ambiance and panoramic views, Virago is a contemporary Asian fusion restaurant in Downtown Nashville.
- Chauhan Ale & Masala House: Celebrity chef Maneet Chauhan calls Nashville home, and her restaurant downtown serves up tasty Indian-Southern fusion like Tandoori chicken poutine.
8 p.m. – Nashville Nightlife
Some of the finest mixologists in the U.S. call Nashville home, and you don’t want to miss a chance to sip on their daring concoctions. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic whiskey sour, a tangy margarita on the rocks, or a fruity mocktail, you’ll be in good hands when you belly up to one of these Music City bars.
- Patterson House: Nashville’s premier speakeasy-style bar, Patterson House specializes in handcrafted cocktails in a cozy setting.
- Old Glory: Hidden beneath the streets of Edgehill Village, Old Glory is a speakeasy bar housed in a historic boiler room.
- L.A. Jackson: Perched atop the Thompson Nashville hotel, this lively rooftop bar offers beautiful views of Downtown Nashville.
- Pushing Daisies: In the mood for a marg? Pushing Daisies is beneath the action on Broadway, and promises memorable margaritas for all.
- Chopper: Try some of the city’s fruitiest cocktails and mocktails at this tiki bar in East Nashville.
10 p.m. – Broadway Historic District
After kicking off your evening at a relaxed cocktail hideaway, you’re likely eager to head to Nashville’s most iconic late night hotspot – the Broadway Historic District! This strip of Downtown Nashville is celebrated worldwide for its towering three-story honky-tonks, live musicians on every floor and street corner, and a vibrant atmosphere that truly earns it the nickname “Nash-Vegas.” Immerse yourself in the electrifying energy of Broadway, where each step promises a new rhythm and every venue beckons with its own unique charm.
12 p.m. – Late Night Snacks
As your day of adventuring through Music City comes to a close, you may find yourself in need of one last bite. These Nashville favorites are open past midnight, making their late night snacks the perfect finale to a trip you won’t soon forget.
- Duke’s: This is a go-to late-night destination in East Nashville for hot or cold sandwiches with all the fixins.
- Robert’s Western World: Located right on Broadway, Robert’s serves up classics like cheeseburgers, french fries, and onion rings. Don’t miss out on their specialty fried bologna sandwich.
- Skull’s Rainbow Room: Skull’s is an upscale spot in the heart of Printer’s Alley, where you can grab one last drink or snack while listening to live jazz music.
- Schulman’s: End your night at this local dive in East Nashville with a cheeseburger and some fried pickles.
- Neighbors: Located in Germantown, Neighbors is the perfect place to stop after a night of honky-tonking. Yelpers love the brisket sandwich and the chicken quesadilla.
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