Nashville visitors sound off about their experiences with taxis on Broadway, and the responses paint a clear picture: stick with rideshare apps.
An interesting question popped up in the Nashville Visitors Facebook group this week about Taxi's and the danger around them.
The Meter Problem
The biggest complaint? Taxis aren't running their meters. Multiple visitors reported getting quoted flat rates that were triple what Uber or Lyft would charge for the same trip. One tourist leaving the Grand Ole Opry was told $55 to get back to Broadway because of “price surge for a special event.” They walked over to the Gaylord instead and got a Lyft for $15.
Another visitor said a five-minute ride to their apartment in the Gulch cost $30 in a taxi. For comparison, people consistently reported Uber and Lyft being a third of taxi prices.
It's Actually Illegal
Here's something interesting — one commenter who talked to a local cabbie learned that in Nashville, the meter isn't legally binding. Drivers apparently do shady things like leaving the timer running at red lights instead of charging by mileage. Some people said if a taxi tries to overcharge you and won't run the meter, you're not required to pay the inflated price.
One taxi driver did chime in to say not all drivers are bad and that they use their meter. But that person was clearly in the minority based on everyone else's experiences.
How to Save Money on Rideshares
Walk two blocks away from Broadway before ordering your ride. Multiple people said this drops the price significantly.
Some regular visitors shared their favorite pickup spots. The front of Mason Lodge at 7th and Broadway works well. Printer's Alley is another good option because it's easy for drivers to access. One person always catches their Uber at Old Smokey.
Airport Exception
Taxis might actually be worth it from the airport. One visitor said Uber and Lyft quote $30-$40 and you have to wait, while taxis are already there with a flat $30 rate. So that's one situation where a taxi makes sense.
A Warning About Safety
One Uber driver who commented had an important message beyond just transportation costs. They recently picked up a group where someone had been drugged at a bar. This driver now hands out drink covers to passengers and urged everyone to watch bartenders closely and use covers on drinks downtown.
The advice was simple: have a great time in Nashville, but stay aware and stay safe.
