It’s the kind of trip you dream about: You pack your bags, maybe grab a cowboy hat, and head to Nashville, ready to soak up the live music, Southern charm, and BBQ.
But even the most well-prepared travelers can miss a few key details when it comes to exploring Music City.
So, we turned to the experts—visitors just like you—and asked them what they wish they’d known before stepping onto Nashville’s iconic Broadway. Their answers are hilarious, honest, and pretty darn helpful.
1. “Bring a Spare Liver”
Let’s start with some sage advice from a seasoned visitor who warns, “Bring a spare liver! My liver light came on!” And they’re not alone—another guest chimed in, saying, “We didn’t get in before 3 a.m. for five nights in a row. And we’re in our 60s!”
Nashville’s honky-tonks can feel like a marathon, so be prepared to pace yourself, or you might just feel like you’re training for one. As they say, “60 is the new rockstar age.” Whether you're 21 or 61, you’ll probably find yourself needing a little extra recovery time.
2. Sticker Shock: The Price of Downtown Hotels
One visitor dropped a financial bomb, pointing out that “Downtown hotels, for a city of Nashville’s size, are WAY overpriced!” Not to mention, there’s the cost of food, drinks, and parking (we’ll get to that in a second). So, if you’re budgeting for a trip to Nashville, go ahead and add a few more dollar signs than you’d initially planned. Maybe pack some snacks, too.
3. Parking Isn’t Free (or Easy)
Parking in Nashville can be a puzzle. Many visitors have noted that parking prices are through the roof, and some pointed out that many lots only take digital payments—cue the conspiracy theories about hackers!
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Read more →One guest cautioned, “BEWARE OF ALL THOSE PARKING SPOTS WITH A QR IMBLEM…YOUR BANK ACCOUNT WILL BE DRAINED!” And if that wasn’t enough, another shared their own nightmare: “Got a ticket and don’t even know why. Ridiculous.”
So, Nashville parking 101? Bring extra patience, a fully charged phone, and maybe a map of all the “hidden” parking rules.
We recommend the following for safe and secure parking:
4. Nashville’s Public Bathrooms Are…Elusive
Yes, you read that right. If you’re spending the day on Broadway, don’t count on easy access to public bathrooms. Lynn Thomas questioned, “Public bathrooms on Lower Broadway?” Apparently, they’re a rare find, so plan your breaks accordingly—or be ready to make some “friends” with local businesses who might let you sneak in.
5. Wear Comfortable Shoes – You’ll Thank Us Later
“Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll do much walking!” advised one visitor, who’s clearly seen a few too many people limping their way home at the end of a Nashville night. If you think you can rock your cowboy boots all day, think again. Nashville’s energy may be contagious, but sore feet are even more so.
6. Cash Is Still King in Some Parts
As much as we love tech, a lot of visitors pointed out that Nashville doesn’t always. Many have mentioned that some places only take cash. It’s a “bring cash just in case” kind of town, so don’t rely on your card alone. Plus, cash makes tipping those street musicians a lot easier—just sayin’.
7. Bed Bugs Exist Everywhere… Even Here
Nothing can ruin a trip like unwanted roommates. One traveler simply warned, “Bed bugs… the bed bugs.” So, maybe take a quick peek at those hotel reviews before booking a room. Your peace of mind—and skin—might thank you later.
8. The Musicians You Didn’t Know You Needed to See
Some secrets are worth spilling, and one visitor shared a great tip: If you’re looking for a new artist to check out, consider this your insider scoop. Nashville has tons of talent, so don’t be afraid to explore beyond the big names.
9. Beware the Potholes
One visitor had a bone to pick with Nashville’s roads: “The bad roads! Can’t even ride a motorcycle there! It’s deadly potholes.” So, if you’re renting a car, be prepared for a bumpy ride. Or better yet, use those walking shoes we mentioned earlier and leave the roads to the brave.
10. Stay Near the Action
One visitor shared some practical advice: “Stay someplace near the action where parking is reasonable and not valet… and bring earplugs.” The nightlife in Nashville is legendary, but it’s also loud. If you’re a light sleeper, be prepared. Otherwise, embrace the honky-tonk lullabies.
11. Three Days is Enough for Some… But You Might Need More
One visitor suggests, “3 days is enough,” but another disagrees, saying, “You definitely need more than 2 days there.” Whether you’re a quick-hit traveler or one who likes to take it slow, there’s always something to see and do. Just don’t expect to check off all the boxes in one trip.
12. It’s HOT in July
One traveler kept it simple: “Very hot in July!” If you’re not used to Southern heat, plan accordingly. Hydrate, wear light clothing, and take breaks if you need to. Nashville’s summer sun can feel more intense than a guitar solo at the Opry.
13. Bring Your Own Wine Cup?
One visitor discovered that “some of the bars don’t serve wine.” If you’re not a fan of beer or whiskey, you might want to bring your own “sippy cup,” as they called it. Just be prepared to sip discreetly.
14. Patience is a Virtue
One visitor put it best: “You have to be prepared to be over-stimulated!” With the crowds, the music, the lights, and the constant activity, Nashville can be overwhelming. Pack a little extra patience along with those earplugs.
15. Printer’s Alley – Don’t Miss It
Sometimes it’s the hidden spots that are the most fun. One traveler suggested checking out Printer’s Alley—a cool nook in the city that’s perfect for a change of pace from the Broadway buzz. It’s quieter, quirky, and full of character.
Check out our guide on Printers Alley here.
16. Construction Surprises
One visitor had an unexpected detour: “The bridge between my hotel and Broadway was closed for construction.” Nashville is growing fast, and with growth comes roadwork. Be prepared for the occasional construction roadblock and make sure your GPS is updated.
17. Nashville’s Got Personality – And So Will You
And finally, there’s one enthusiastic endorsement: “I love coming to Nashville to vacation!!!! It is an AWESOME place!!!!” Sure, you’ll hit a few bumps in the road (maybe even literal ones), but there’s a reason people keep coming back. Nashville’s charm has a way of winning people over, quirks and all.
No cover charge at the door of any clubs on Broadway but pricey drinks. If u want to take a break from downtown and go to 12 South neighborhood with cool shops and bars and restaurants. Even movie star Reese Witherspoon has a dress shop there for the ladies.
WARNING FOR OVERSEAS VISITORS: The QR codes and 5 digit text codes probably will not work if using your home country cellphone. to pay for parking. There are plenty of places that will take cash, a credit card our an app. There is also great parking at 161 Fourth Ave S, underneath the Walk of Fame (between the Country Hall of Fame and the Hilton Hotel. I can’t remember the prices per hour but it is vey reasonable. I found this one the most useful. I also used 5th and Broadway and the Music City Centre carpark, and all are very easy to get to and leave.