Nashville, the heart of music and Southern charm, has tons to offer. But, like any city, there are some things you should steer clear of. Here's a quick rundown of what to avoid to keep your Nashville experience awesome.
CMA Fest
Love music? Great! But if you're a local, CMA Fest might be your worst nightmare. Downtown turns into a gridlock, and the influx of tourists can be overwhelming. Planning a getaway during this time might save your sanity.
Sure, pedal taverns look like a blast, but they’re overpriced and slow. For a better city tour, hop on a trolley. You’ll see more, spend less, and avoid the pedal-powered hassle.
We recommend the Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour for over 100 stops around town.
Lower Broadway (During Peak Hours)
Broadway is fun but can be crazy crowded and expensive, especially on weekends. For a more laid-back downtown vibe, Printer’s Alley is a great alternative.
Pro Nashville Tip: The Best time to visit Broadway is 10 am when they first open. The bands are incredible, and you can enjoy them.
Angel Wing Mural
That iconic mural? Be prepared for long lines and scorching sun. Instead, hunt for other murals scattered across the city – they’re just as Instagram-worthy without the wait. Check out our Instagrammable Nashville post.
Opry Mills Mall on Weekends
Think Black Friday crowds every weekend. Parking is a nightmare, and the masses can be too much. Local boutiques and artisan shops offer a more relaxed shopping experience.
Transpotainment Vehicles
Party buses sound fun until you realize you’re overpaying and have to BYOB. For a better tour, consider traditional sightseeing options that are more comfortable and cost-effective.
Chain Restaurants
Skip the chains! Nashville’s local food scene is amazing. Dive into the city’s unique culinary delights and leave the generic chains behind.
Check out our local recommendations like:
- Best Local Burgers
- Best Local Hot Chicken
- Nashville restaurants for food lovers
- Best Nashville BBQ Joints
Waiting in Long Lines for Popular Restaurants
Why waste your time in line? Nashville is brimming with fantastic eateries that don’t come with an hour-long wait. Explore and find those hidden gems.
Check out these instead:
Dressing Like a Stereotypical Tourist
Cowboy boots and hats are cool if it’s your thing. But if it’s not, don’t force it. Locals can spot a tourist from a mile away!
Here's 17 Trendy Nashville Outfits
Staying Only on Broadway
Broadway’s great, but don’t miss out on East Nashville, 12 South, and The Gulch. Each neighborhood has its own vibe and treasures waiting to be discovered.
Check out these other options:
Overhyped Attractions
Tourist traps can be a letdown. The lesser-known spots often provide a richer and more authentic Nashville experience.
Instead, check out our list of non-touristy things to do or Nashville's Marathon Village.