What to do in 24 Hours in Nashville

It’s happened to all of us, a friend is in town for 24 hours or less and they want you to show them around town. I don’t know about you, but when this happens my mind goes into overdrive! There’s so much to see and do in Nashville Tennessee, 24 hours just won’t cut it! Nashville is one of the most fun cities in the United States, you have to do it right in one day.

My girl Alicia came traveled to town a few weeks ago before our media trip to Pigeon Forge, there was so much I wanted to show her! So if you’re in Nashville (and in the same boat) here is what you should do!

What to do in 24 Hours in Nashville

Where to Eat

Breakfast

First things first, start off with breakfast. A few of my favorites are Barista Parlor, Anzie Blue, Biscuit Love, or Frothy Monkey. If you have a full day of activities you’ll need some coffee and fuel. If your guests want the full tourist experience then Loveless Cafe and Pancake Pantry are two great options!

Snack

Grab a snack. Try a cronut at Five Daughter’s Bakery, a cookie at Christie Cookie, or a coffee at Fido.

Lunch

If you want to grab lunch, Bartaco in 12 South has a fantastic lunch menu. Other favorites are Puckett’s, the Pharmacy in East Nashville, Edley’s, or Arnold’s Country Kitchen.

Happy Hour

For pre-dinner snacks and drinks go to City Winery, Midtown Tavern, downtown Frothy Monkey, Barcelona’s Social Hour, or Lola. Another option is grabbing a drink at one of Music City rooftop bars. I love Proof at the W Hotel, Rarebird at Noelle, Hampton Social, or Assembly Food Hall. Grab a cocktail, listen to live music and enjoy the vibe.

My favorite dinner spots are Mockingbird, Tansuo, Hampton Social, Superica, The Dutch, 51st Taproom, and 312 Pizza.

If you’re a foodie there is also an Nashville food tour that takes you to some downtown Nashville hot spots in one night.

24 Hours in Nashville: Where to Shop

I have a full post on places to shop in Nashville but 12 South is a tourist favorite. With stores like White’s Mercantile, Draper James, and Imogene + Willie, you’re bound to find some great local clothing! There are also some great well-known murals there you can take a photo in front of!

Another great street is Hillsboro Village. Here you can grab a coffee at Fido or Revelator, ice cream at Jeni’s, or a movie at The Belcourt. There you’ll find boutiques like Native & Nomad, Posh, and UAL.

24 Hours in Nashville: What to Do

John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

The pedestrian bridge is off Broadway and you can walk across and see the perfect view of the city with the Cumberland River.

Country Music Hall of Fame

Do you love music icons like Johnny Cash, Kacey Musgraves or Tim McGraw? The Country Music Hall of Fame. Get some music history, explore the exhibits and get a hatch print from the gift shop.

Tour the Ryman Auditorium

If you love country music, you have to visit the Mother Church! You can do a self-guided tour or a guided backstage tour. Also, check to see if they have a show the night you’re there. It’s quite the experience! Another great place to tour is The Grand Ole Opry. 

Hit Up Broadway

I wrote about my five favorite Broadway spots, but you definitely need to set aside time at night for a Honky Tonk or two.

Go to a Predators Game

The Nashville Predators are one of the top three hockey teams in the NHL right now. ESPN wrote that Preds fans are the best fans in the NHL and provide one of the best hockey experiences. (I also share what to wear to a Preds game here.)

Walk Around Centennial Park 

Tour the Parthenon and explore the gorgeous grounds. It’s a great walk on a beautiful day!

Visit All the Murals

I have a complete mural guide here. They’re scattered across the city and a great photo op.

24 Hours in Nashville: What to Wear

Let’s be real, most of us don’t wear cowboy hats and cowboy boots. My daily uniform is tennis shoes, jeans, a Madewell v-neck tee, and a leather or denim jacket. And I almost always have a hat on! We keep it casual in the 615, very Americana hipster. Be comfortable and wear stretchy pants for all the eating you’ll do. I’ve got a full guide on what to wear here!

Have you been to Nashville? What are some of your favorite things to do?

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