A Local’s Guide to Downtown Nashville
If you’re looking for a guide to the best bars and honky tonks in Downtown Nashville, then you’re in the wrong place. I try to only recommend spots I have personally been to, and my lifestyle just doesn’t involve a lot (or any really) partying and drinking.
However, if you want to know what a Nashville local considers worthwhile in one of the most popular (and expensive) areas of the city, I can help you out with that.
Parking gets pricey Downtown, so I do not go there as often as I go to other parts of the city, but I do go for special events and shows at the Ryman. I wish there were a better way of getting to Downtown from my neighborhood because there are lots of things I really like there. (And also a number of things I haven’t gotten the chance to do yet, so I’ll keep updating periodically.)
Here’s where I recommend going while you’re in Downtown.
Things to Do
Ryman Auditorium
The Ryman Auditorium is an iconic Nashville venue. It’s where the Grand Ole Opry was recorded for many years, and it’s known as the Mother Church of Country Music.
The auditorium is a former church that’s been converted into a music venue, but still retains many features like the stained glass windows and pews for seating.
The acoustics are amazing, and the intimate venue creates such a unique experience for both the artists and the listeners. I recommend watching a show here if you get the chance. If not, you can also take a tour of the Ryman Auditorium during the day.
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Obviously, Nashville is well known for country music, so it’s no surprise that there’s an entire museum dedicated to the genre. I’ve been to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum multiple times (for free) thanks to the community passes available through the Nashville Public Library.
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum walks visitors through the history of country music and showcases an incredible amount of music memorabilia. Where else are you going to get to see one of Minnie Pearl’s stage costumes, a cadillac owned by Elvis Presley, and tons of rhinestones and cowboy boots.
If you’re into music at all, I highly suggest going to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum!
Main Library
I love going to libraries any time, but the Main Library in Downtown is especially nice. The library is 3 stories, and it’s got a whole lot more than books to offer.
For those with kids, you cannot miss the children’s area. There’s an entire play structure, plus a climbing wall, puppet shows, and activities area, and much more.
You’ll want to take a peek into the beautiful reading room, maybe spend some time in the courtyard, and definitely check out the two special exhibits – The Women’s Rights Room and the Civil Rights Room.
See my full guide to the Main Library here.
Music City Walk of Fame
The Music City Walk of Fame is definitely not as grand as the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but it is an interesting free attraction that’s unique to Nashville.
The Music City Walk of Fame Park is right across from the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, so it’s very easy to find. You can walk around the park and look for stars in honor of artists, musicians, and others who have played a role in Nashville’s music industry.
Read my full guide to the Music City Walk of Fame here.
Bridgestone Arena
Hockey probably isn’t the first thing you think of when you think of Nashville, but we actually have an NHL team that does pretty well some years.
I’ll admit that I don’t have a lot of experience with hockey (or, you know, ice in general since I grew up in Mississippi), but it’s a lot of fun to catch a game during the season.
The Predators play at Bridgestone Arena. When they aren’t playing, the arena hosts concerts and other events that are worth checking out instead.
Tennessee Performing Arts Center
The Tennessee Performing Arts Center hosts theater, ballet, and opera performances along with a few other types of entertainment.
The programming varies, so you’ll want to check the schedule. I’ve enjoyed getting to see a few touring Broadway productions here.
Restaurants
Assembly Food Hall
If you want to have a lot of options, head to Assembly Food Hall. This is basically a giant food court with a number of popular eateries.
You can try the famous Prince’s Hot Chicken here. Two of my other favorites are Steam Boys and Thai Esane.
I especially recommend Assembly Food Hall for groups because everyone can definitely find something they want.
The reason why I don’t have a ton of restaurants to recommend in Downtown is because I almost always go to Assembly Food Hall.
Read my full guide to Assembly Food Hall here.
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
Some people think Hattie B’s is overrated, but even though it isn’t the original hot chicken place, I personally really like it. They just do a good job, and they have great sides.
I have not been to the location Downtown though. I usually stick to the Charlotte Avenue one because it’s generally not as crowded. You may have to wait in line for a very long time at the Downtown location. While I do recommend Hattie B’s, I would probably not wait in line over an hour to get it.
Pancake Pantry
The original Pancake Pantry is near Vanderbilt University, but it’s so popular that they expanded to a Downtown location.
I don’t know what the wait is like Downtown, but I did have the best blueberry pancakes I’ve ever had at the original location. So if the line seems doable, Pancake Pantry gets a yes from me.
Read my full review of Pancake Pantry here.
Coffee Shops
Drug Store Coffee
Inside the elegant Noelle hotel, you’ll find Drug Store Coffee. This is a great place to grab a cup of coffee while you’re Downtown, and it gives you an excuse to head inside the hotel, which is one of my favorites in the city.
Elegy Coffee
I haven’t been to the Downtown location of Elegy Coffee, but I am super impressed every time that I go to the location in East Nashville. The food is so good, and the shop’s design is so unique.
Plus, the Honey Bear Batch Bottles are just adorable. (Although my husband says that the cold brew is a little too sweet, so keep that in mind if you have a strong preference on how sweet your coffee should be.)
Bakeries
D’Andrews Bakery and Cafe
The D’Andrews Bakery and Cafe was nominated for a James Beard Award in 2024, and I was not surprised at all. The bakery makes delicious goods. I especially like their macarons and their hot chocolate.
Read my full review of D’Andrews Bakery and Cafe here.
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Thanks for reading my guide to Downtown Nashville. I’ve also got a guide to East Nashville you can check out as well.
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