It’s a typical night planning your Nashville adventure. You’re scrolling through prices, booking options, tips, and thinking, “How much do I need to save?” Between hotel rates, food, drinks, and all the Broadway lights calling your name, budgeting for Nashville is a real puzzle. The question isn’t if it’s worth it—it’s figuring out how much cash to stash before hitting Music City.
Let’s dive into the wisdom straight from folks who’ve walked the honky-tonk walk and want to save you a few bucks (or several).
The Big Ticket Item: Hotels and Airbnbs
Hotels in Nashville aren’t cheap—especially downtown. Amanda Westmoreland shared, “The most expensive part is the hotel. After that, it’s paying for parking or Uber. Hotels average $300 to $600 a night. Some advertise for less, but after taxes and fees, it’s usually about a hundred more.”
For those visiting in winter, Jessica Joy Tammaro mentioned some budget options: “January and February are super affordable! Downtown condos with free parking go for $75 a night on weekdays.” Winter travel may be the hack for a more budget-friendly Nashville trip.
If you’re looking to save but don’t want to sacrifice comfort, Brita Nelson recommends, “Holiday Inn Vanderbilt is $120/night, free shuttle to Broadway, and free buffet breakfast. Plus, McDonald’s is nearby for cheap eats!” The trick, as Janet Dearth advises, is to look up prices for your dates in advance to get a clear picture.
<– Check out our list of nice, budget hotels in Nashville! –>
Eating and Drinking: How Much to Budget for Food and Booze
Broadway drinks don’t come cheap. Gregory A. Beamer shares that, “On Lower Broad, a 12 oz domestic can of beer is at least $8, and cocktails start at $13 but can go over $20. A few cocktails each night could easily set you back $200.” Tracy Lynn Robinson suggests pre-gaming with supplies from Frugal McDougal’s before you hit the bars.
If you’re into the local vibe and want a bargain, Linda Nail Wyatt says, “There are no bargains here except for Roberts Western World, and that’s beer and fried bologna sandwiches.” Kevin Smith added, “We probably spent $400 to $500 on drinks alone, with beer around $9-$10 and mixed drinks from $15 to $20 each.”
When it comes to food, Paul Robinson took a balanced approach. He budgeted around $400 a day with his family, mentioning, “Some days we spent a little more, and some days less. Nashville has more to offer than just Broadway—take a free mural walk and enjoy the city on foot.” Brita Nelson also shared a cost breakdown with affordable meal options like Luigi’s Pizza and Assembly Food Hall for a low-cost yet satisfying experience.
Entertainment: Museums, Tours, and Classic Nashville Experiences
Want to dive into Nashville’s music and history? Expect some variation in ticket prices. Janet Dearth recommends checking prices for activities like the Grand Ole Opry, where tickets start around $60 but can climb to $400.
To make the most of your trip, Roberta Wendelin Davis suggests getting tickets in advance to avoid surprises. Gregory A. Beamer added that for a full experience at the Country Music Hall of Fame with Studio B and Hatch Print Shop, you’re looking at around $70 per person. If you’re interested in unique city views, Brita Nelson shared that the Joy Ride Mural Tour costs around $50, and if you’re up for a quirky tractor ride down Broadway, that’ll be $30 plus beer and tips.
Some people find creative ways to cut costs: Robin Farris suggests pregaming before hitting Broadway to save on drink prices, and Tracy Lynn Robinson backs this tip with the Frugal McDougal suggestion. The locals have a range of creative ideas for trimming expenses without sacrificing the fun.
Plan for Surprises (Like Cowboy Boots)
When it comes to shopping, plan to save for some classic Nashville buys. Cathy SB confessed that “cowboy boots were our biggest expense!” Expect to see boot prices that start around $150 and can go much higher, with many visitors splurging for an authentic pair as a keepsake.
Real Talk: What’s the Final Total?
Based on the different experiences shared, a trip to Nashville can range widely, depending on your preferences. Tara Williams-Smith shared her estimate of “a 5-day trip could be as little as $2,500 or as high as $5,000.” Ashlie Gleffe Krieger mentioned that drink prices can range from $10 to $15 per cocktail and recommended that “museum stuff isn’t too expensive,” with Ubers also being reasonably priced.
Paul Robinson also noted, “If you budget $400 a day, you’ll have a great time. Some days you may spend more, others less.” Finally, Phyllis M Beale-Vircik shared her experience of spending $5,000 on a 6-day trip, which reflects the high end of a Nashville adventure.
Planning your Nashville trip? Prepare for a range of expenses, especially if Broadway’s nightlife is on your list. With these insights from real visitors, you’ll have a better idea of what to expect.