A Local’s Guide to Downtown Nashville
Last Updated: 11/30/25
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. While you’re here, check out my guide to the best restaurants in Downtown Nashville as well!
Parking gets pricey Downtown, so I don’t 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
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!
Google Maps | Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Website
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.
Google Maps | Ryman Auditorium Website
Johnny Cash Museum
Music fans should also add the Johnny Cash Museum to your Nashville list. This museum is relatively small, but it’s set up incredibly well. As you walk through the museum, you’ll learn about Johnny Cash’s influence not just on country music, but on American culture as a whole.
The museum can get a bit crowded because it is so small, but I think it’s definitely worth visiting!
Google Maps | Johnny Cash Museum Website
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.
Unfortunately, the Main Library branch is currently closed following a fire in the attached parking garage. There is not yet an official date for the reopening.
Google Maps | Nashville Public Library Website | 👉 See my full guide to the Downtown Nashville Public Library
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.
Google Maps | 👉 Read my full guide to the Music City Walk of Fame
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.
Google Maps | Bridgestone Arena Website
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.
Google Maps | Tennessee Performing Arts Center Website
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. And Dolly Parton has recently opened a bar called The Butterfly Bar here!
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.
Google Maps | Assembly Food Hall Website | 👉 Read my full guide to Assembly Food Hall
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.
Google Maps | Hattie B’s Hot Chicken Website
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.
Google Maps | Pancake Pantry Website | 👉 Read my full review of Pancake Pantry
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.
Google Maps | Drug Store Coffee Website
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.)
Google Maps | Elegy Coffee Website
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.
Google Maps | D’Andrews Bakery and Cafe Website | 👉 Read my full review of D’Andrews Bakery and Cafe
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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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