How to Spend a Perfect Weekend in Nashville
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A mecca for musicians, producers and other artists, Nashville has long been a destination that lives up to its "Music City" nickname. However, Tennessee's capital has a lot more to offer besides country music legends and classic Southern food. While both of those things are still available in spades, Nashville has transformed into one of the most desirable destinations in the country over the last few years. From gourmet restaurants and antique shops to Broadway honky-tonks and botanical gardens, people flock from all over the world to this elevated, exciting city that has something new to offer every day.
To explore this destination and all its wonders in style, follow our weekend guide below. Here's what to do in Nashville if you only have a weekend to visit.
Friday Morning
For the ultimate luxury hotel that's close to the action but still a quiet retreat away from the buzz of Broadway, check into the Conrad Nashville. The hotel, which opened in 2022 and was designed by New York-based Champalimaud Design, effortlessly combines contemporary design with the creature comforts of home (think: Frette bedding and Byredo toiletries).
If you're hungry after your morning of travels, sit down for a quick breakfast at the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, Blue Aster, to get your trip started on the right foot (the ultra-crispy breakfast potatoes should not be missed).
If you need the perfect outfit before heading out on the town, you can also schedule an appointment with Nashville’s Fifth Avenue Club located in the hotel. The unique shopping and styling experience is done in collaboration with Saks Fifth Avenue, and you can book your appointment in advance online.
Friday Afternoon
After you’ve settled into the hotel, it’s time to head out and start dressing like a Nashville native. Drive over to the Gulch and stop at Rustler Hat Co.. Here you'll be able to design your own custom cowboy hat to wear around town. With the ability to add personal touches that make your hat uniquely yours, you’ll greatly enjoy this bespoke experience and treasure this souvenir long after your visit comes to an end.
Now that you have the proper gear, you can explore the Gulch and all of the fabulous restaurants around it for a quick bite to eat. There are plenty of options in the area, from Biscuit Love to St. Vito Focacceria—and you honestly can't go wrong with any of the choices.
After fueling up, it's time to go antiquing. Not far away is Patina + Co., a popular antique destination, as well as nearby Gaslamp and Gaslamp Too, which are both staples of the vibrant Nashville interior design scene. From antique art and furniture to pottery and home accessories, there are treasures to be found around every corner in these shops.
Friday Evening
After heading back to the hotel to freshen up, it's time to spend the evening enjoying what the city is known for: its food and music scene.
Plan to make reservations for an early dinner that night at one of the many delicious restaurants in Nashville. One of our favorite spots from around town is Rolf and Daughters, which serves up innovative, Italian-inspired dishes. Other great dinner options include Rolf and Daughter's sister restaurant Folk and chef Sean Brock's restaurant Audrey.
After dinner, take a car to the Grand Ole Opry for its Friday night show, which starts at 7 p.m. You can find out who's performing while you're there by checking out the calendar of events.
Saturday Morning
Start your morning at a local’s favorite spot: the Nashville farmers' market. In the warmer months, the outdoor farm sheds and market stalls are full of fresh fruits and vegetables from local farms, but all year there are restaurants such as Farm City Coffee, Farmer’s Deli and Grill, and international-inspired menus at Jamaicaway, Bowl & Roll, and Music City Crepes—all of which excellent options for a quick morning bite before a day downtown.
Saturday Afternoon
Spend the majority of your day immersed in music and its history. Learn a comprehensive history of the music the city is known for at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and then make your way to Broadway to visit the National Museum of African American Music. Take some time to go shopping and grab some lunch from Nashville staples at the Assembly Food Hall. The original hot chicken spot, Prince's Hot Chicken, has a location here, or you can choose from other stalls that serve up everything from ramen and burgers to cocktails and shaved ice.
Continue to explore the area and close your afternoon with a visit to the Johnny Cash Museum. For those who love sweet treats, stop into Goo Goo Chocolate Co. next door and create a custom candy bar.
Saturday Night
Allow your musical afternoon to flow into a song-filled evening. Stay in the area and have a lovely dinner at Husk Nashville, which is just a short drive away from Broadway. The restaurant's menu changes daily, but it's known for its creative celebration of local produce. Afterwards, enjoy all of the honky-tonks the town has to offer, but locals still love Robert's Western World on Broadway.
Sunday Morning
Start your final day exploring another part of what makes Nashville so special: its incredible academic institutions. Before leaving downtown, go to Adele's for brunch which is a short walk away from the hotel, and then make your way to Vanderbilt.
Regardless of your age or collegiate loyalty, you will appreciate walking around the main campus and learning about the history of this major university, which has been around since 1873.
Since you're in an academic mood, make your way to an iconic Nashville bookstore, author Ann Patchett's Parnassus Books. Full of classics, local authors, and signed copies of Ann Patchett's books, it's worth stopping into this beautiful shop.
Sunday Afternoon
On your way out of town, head to the Cheekwood Estate and Gardens. Beautiful in every season, Cheekwood offers something unique to everyone in your party. Whether they are interested in gardening, art, or history, it's the perfect final stop to make before you go home.
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