High energy, music, dancing, art, interesting drinks and delicious Southern food – what more could you want from a girls weekend?
You get all this, and more, on a girls weekend in Nashville.
Nashville is the type of city that gets your feet moving and your inner party animal out. Which is exactly why it makes for such a great girl’s weekend trip.
So, whether you’re planning a bachelorette party or just a weekend with the girls after months apart, here is your ultimate guide to an epic weekend getaway in Nashville, which we created in partnership with Hotels.com. From the best places to party the night away to where to satisfy your hunger pains and, of course, the best Instagrammable spots. Oh, and where to sleep!
Here is an overview:
Girls Weekend in Nashville: Places to visit
We know that girls weekends can get carried away, often involving long lunches, shopping sprees and wild party nights. But, while you’re in the city there’s a few great places to visit. While planning your Nashville weekend trip, try including one or two of the below places on your itinerary.
The Parthenon
The Parthenon is one of the most treasured sights in Nashville.
The Parthenon in Nashville is a unique and accurate replica of the original temple in Athens, Greece. It is the only one of its kind in the world.
When Tennessee celebrated its 100th anniversary with the Tennessee Centennial Exposition, Nashville decided to capitalize on its designation as the “Athens of the South” by constructing the Fine Arts Building as a replica of Athens’ most famous building. In the process, it also faithfully recreated classical Greek architecture.
It’s located right next to one of the Old Trolley stops, so super easy to get to.
Since the 1930s, the Parthenon Galleries have hosted rotating art exhibits. The goal is to educate Nashville residents and visitors about the heritage of the ancient Greeks and their influence on American civilization.
They display objects and present information about 5th century B.C. Athens, the Tennessee Centennial Exposition, and the reconstruction of the Parthenon in Nashville – and they collect this information for future generations.
They also exhibit, collect, and provide for the preservation of works of fine art – while hoping to increase public awareness of various forms of fine art.
Country Music Hall of Fame
This iconic museum and research complex is dedicated to preserving the country music of Nashville and beyond. In doing so, it seeks to educate and entertain a broad audience. Through exhibitions, publications, digital media and educational programs, the Museum explores the cultural significance and timeless beauty of this art form.
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is located in downtown Nashville. It is often referred to as the “Smithsonian of Country Music” because of its broad cultural impact and commitment to education. It is especially known for its unique collection of historically significant artifacts related to country music.
After visiting, try catch a country music show at the neighboring Ryman Auditorium.
Get your entrance ticket right here, to skip the line.
Price: $28
Duration: 2 hours
Opening hours: 09:00 – 16:30 (closed on Tuesday and Wednesday)
Free cancelation till 24 hours before
Clean off your dusty, rhinestone-studded cowboy hat and take giant steps into the Country Music Hall of Fame! Explore more than 2.5 million exhibits and artifacts that trace the evolution of country music from its folk roots in the 19th century to today.
If you’ve always had an interest in country music, a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame is a must. Located in the heart of Music City, it features 130,000 square feet of museum space, workshops and live music rooms.
The permanent exhibit, “Sing Me Back Home,” is a treasure trove for all the senses, including instruments, photographs, original recordings and archival film. There are also interactive touch screens and beautifully designed text to explore.
Ryman Auditorium
Ryman Auditorium is a live music venue hosting singers, songwriters and musicians from around the world. It was home to the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974 and later became a National Historic Landmark in 2001.
The Ryman Auditorium is a world-renowned concert hall, a symbol of rock ‘n’ roll, the famed former home of the Grand Ole Opry, and music’s most legendary stage – the “mother house” that brings artists and fans together for unforgettable musical moments. This beloved Nashville landmark is not just another venue for nightly musical performances or a daytime tourist attraction. It is sacred ground.
You definitely need to go watch a performance here! You can get a ticket and self-guided tour here.
Price: $29
Duration: 2 hours
Opens: Friday 17:30 – 21:30
Get swept away by the most legendary music stage and former home of the Grand Ole Opry. This symbol of Nashville is a sacred place for all creative spirits, and you’ll find out why on this self-guided tour of the Ryman Auditorium.
Cheekwood Estate and Garden
Cheekwood features immaculate botanical gardens, lakes and a restored mansion.
This remarkable 1930s estate, once owned by the family of Mabel and Leslie Cheek, consists of a historic mansion as well as manicured gardens and sweeping views. Today it is open to the public as a botanical garden, arboretum and museum.
Take an enticing stroll along the 1.5-mile woodland sculpture trail or explore the impressive variety of 13 different gardens. Admire the extraordinary range of garden art. Enter the Cheek Mansion, now a museum, for a glimpse into the lifestyle of the American country house era. Stroll through the restored family rooms with their original furnishings or visit the galleries with artwork from our permanent collection or traveling exhibits – you will be inspired!
It’s a great place to visit on a sunny day or on one their event days – from artist installations to Moon Viewing nights. It’s a great spot to visit with the girls!
Take a walk through Broadway
When you think of Nashville, you probably picture bright neon lights, honky-tonk music and cowboys with their boots on, galloping down Broadway Street.
Located in the shadow of the famous Ryman Auditorium, the Broadway Historic District is known for its many music and tourist shops. This section of Broadway is also known as Lower Broad and has attracted country music fans to its honky-tonk bars for many years.
In Nashville, this is the hotspot for live music, drinking, dining, shopping and more. The bustling street has been a big draw for country music fans for decades and is still home to many legendary institutions and venues that have produced some of country music’s biggest stars.
Some of the businesses along the street were major players in Nashville’s economy in the late 19th century; today, many of them serve as restaurants for locals and tourists alike. For example, the Ernest Tubb Record Shop at 417 Broadway was the site of a historic radio show called the Midnight Jamboree – the second longest running of its kind – which still airs on Saturday nights on WSM Radio.
Just taking a walk down the street will expose you to more different types of music than you’d ever imagine!
Nightlife in Nashville
Nightlife in Nashville is all about the live music experience. The Music City lives up to its nickname with a mix of country music venues ranging from the Bluebird Cafe (temporarily closed as of January 2021, but look out for their reopening) to the Grand Ole Opry.
Pop into a bar at any time of day and you’re bound to hear an amazing performer on stage. Though, for a true Nashville party experience, hit the bars on Broadway, aka “Honky Tonk Row,” for live music and dancing. Yes, it’s touristy. But a weekend in Nashville wouldn’t be complete without checking it out.
You’ll also find loads of cocktail bars and rooftop restaurants around the city.
Grand Ole Opry Show
During your visit to Music City, treat yourself to a trip to country music’s most famous stage, the Grand Ole Opry House.
This legendary live show and radio broadcast brings together emerging talent, superstars and country icons each week, accompanied by the sounds of bluegrass, family-friendly comedy and more.
The Opry shows are never rehearsed and every show is unique. Immerse yourself in the diversity of country, western and Americana music in one evening and be taken on a musical journey.
This experience is a must for fans of all ages. Choose your seat when you purchase your ticket and enjoy an unforgettable night at the Grand Ole Opry.
Make your experience even more special by choosing one of the Premium Experience options. Not only does it include access to the show from a prime Tier 1 or Tier 2 seat, but it also gives you access to the exclusive Circle Room Lounge. There, you’ll have the opportunity to meet a real Opry artist, enjoy appetizers and sample two premium beverages. You’ll also receive a souvenir photo to take home. The lounge opens one hour before the show and remains open until intermission.
Price: $53
Duration: 2 hours
Starts: Door opens at 18:30, show begins 19:00
The atmosphere is so unique and you can feel how much it means to the performers to be on this legendary stage. It’s an iconic destination and a must see if you’re in Nashville, TN. The grounds are beautiful, as is the Opry itself.
Join a Line Dancing Class with Keepsake Video
Feel like a line dancing superstar and have fun at this honky-tonk dancing experience.
Keep up with the latest hits in Nashville country music by learning the most popular routines step-by-step. Follow your instructor at an easy pace and work your way up to full-length group choreography.
You’ll start with a relaxed meeting with your group and instructor to get to know each other. This is followed by a simple line dance to make sure everyone is warmed up and ready to go. Your instructor will show you three different dances and you can choose which choreography you would like to practice.
In this one-hour class, you’ll learn back-to-back line dances that are popular in dance halls across the country. Take your time to feel comfortable and gain confidence according to your experience and preference.
Don’t forget to record a video of the dances at the end of class so you can show off your progress at home.
Price: $40
Duration: 1 hour
Free cancelation up to 24 hours before
They teach you 2 dances that the instructor goes through a few times until you are competent. It is a good atmosphere, everyone is there to have fun.
Haunted Pub Crawl Seeking Spirits
Learn about Nashville’s spooky ghost stories while enjoying a few drinks on this spooky group tour for ages 21 and up.
You’ll start at the famous Hard Rock Café on Broadway Ave and have a cocktail at Alley Taps Bar, located in historic Printer’s Alley. Mix your scary story with your favorite drink. Stop by a variety of watering holes, including haunted bars, hotels, former morgues and spooky landmarks.
Learn about how this city became a music capital and its role during the Civil War. Listen to your guide’s tales of the former red light district.
Price: $29.99
Duration: 2 hours
Free cancelation up to 24 hours before
Small group (9 participants)
You learn a ton of unique history about downtown Nashville, visit some really cool bars & pubs. Your guide will recommend drinks to try at certain places, share good spots to try, and take pictures of ghosts.
What to eat in Nashville
Southern fried chicken, anyone? Nashville is home to many wholesome, traditional Southern foods, and some really great restaurants. Since you’re only going to be spending the weekend in Nashville with the girls, we recommend heading out for every meal. There’s more than enough choice!
Some of the great Nashville favorites include:
- Hot Chicken, and if you only have time to visit one of the famous Hot Chicken spots, definitely head to Prince’s Hot Chicken. Here you’ll get to taste the original version flavored from ‘plain’ all the way to ‘xxx hot’.
- Biscuits. Southern biscuits are fluffy, flaky buttermilk pieces, similar to scones (for those more familiar with British cuisine). The best ones are served with other Southern specialties like grits and collard greens, and you’ll find them in many Nashville restaurants and cafes.
- Meat and Three is a concept that started down South and lets you choose one meat and three side dishes for your meal. Meat will usually be fried chicken or some form of BBQ with side options being sweet corn, potatoes or mac & cheese (if you look hard enough, you might find a salad).
- BBQ. Just like you can’t really leave Nashville without trying Hot Chicken, you can’t leave without trying a BBQ (unless you’re a vegetarian).
- Brunch is a firm favorite in the city and perfect for your girls weekend in Nashville itinerary (after your big night out). Expect delicious treats like bagels, pancakes and eggs. Be warned though – brunch in Nashville has become extremely popular with most of the good spots requiring reservations. So plan this outing in advance!
- Chocolate and donuts. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’ll be in heaven. You’ll find many artisan chocolatiers in the city along with a few creative donut bakeries.
Besides from eating your way through all the fried foods, don’t forget about tasting some good ‘ol Tennessee whiskey. Pretty much all the bars in the city will have a range of locally produced world-class whiskey to enjoy. To truly experience a good whiskey, make a stop along the Tennessee Whiskey Trail at Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, the 5th officially licensed distillery in the state prior to prohibition.
Secret Food Tour
Start the tour at a hip restaurant and bar for an unforgettable culinary introduction to East Nashville.
Then you’ll discover the secrets of East Nashville, its rich history and its connections to the music and cultural scene.
Now it’s time to explore the historic East Edgefield neighborhood.
At a diner-inspired restaurant from a world-renowned James Beard Award-winning chef, you’ll indulge in a unique baked creation unlike anything you’ve ever tasted.
You’ll take a walk to the famous 5-Points, passing legendary music clubs and local shops and restaurants along the way. This will give you a firsthand look at the impressive craftsmanship of this great neighborhood.
Next, you’ll visit the historic site of Nashville’s first food hall to sample two delicious dishes.
The highlight is a Memphis-style West Tennessee BBQ sandwich from another internationally acclaimed chef.
The tour ends with an exquisite Secret Dish – an award-winning treat found in more than 60 renowned Nashville restaurants!
Price: $89
Duration: 3 hours
Free cancelation up to 24 hours before
Skip the line ticket
Get a feel for the city, learn some history, and eat some great food. Lots of food. Come hungry. Each stop builds on the history and style of food that helped establish Nashville’s food culture.
Where to get the perfect shot for the ‘gram
What’s a girls weekend getaway without a few selfies? Lucky for you, Nashville has a few great spots for photo opportunities. The best are the wall murals found throughout the city; some great ones include:
- I Believe In Nashville: 2702 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204
- Three Brothers Café: 2813 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203
- It’s Gonna Be O.K Mural: 3020 Charlotte Ave, Nashville, TN 37209
- Nashville Looks Good On You: 2511 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204
- What Lifts You Mural: 302 11th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
For more technicolored murals, head to the famously artistic 12South neighborhood. It’s also packed with shopping and dining spots, so a great place to spend a few hours.
Where to stay in Nashville
There are plenty of accommodation options in Nashville, for all budgets. You’ll find fun and lively hostels to quirky music themed boutique hotels and high-end luxury resorts.
For an apartment: Bode Nashville
This four-bedroom, four-bathroom apartment is perfect for a girls weekend in Nashville! It features a few chill out spots – from a long dining table to comfortable lounge area and outdoor deck. Plus, it’s walking distance from Broadway! What can be better?
For a quirky hotel: Fairlane Hotel
Fairlane Hotel offers trendy retro-modern and mid-century interiors. The bedrooms are full of 1960s charm and there’s a great choice of restaurants in the hotel.
For a luxury stay: 121 Hotel
This luxury boutique hotel provides you with all the pleasures of staying in a hotel while having the privacy of staying in an apartment. Offering individual rooms, 5-bedroom suites, a plush penthouse, private event spaces or the entire hotel. You’ve got a few options, depending on how many are in your group. Centrally located in mid-town, one block from the highly coveted West End Avenue and walking distance from major hotspots.
For a budget friendly hostel: Music City Hostel
This hostel is great for its convenient location in Midtown Nashville. It offers dorm rooms (including female-only dorms) and private rooms that can fit up to four people – so all the girls can stay together!
Get packing!
Get packing ladies – your weekend in Nashville awaits!
