So you’re heading to Nashville and thinking, “Hmm… I want a spot that’s not smack in the middle of downtown chaos, but still close enough to feel the vibe.” Maybe you spotted a few hotels near Nissan Stadium and wondered if the area’s safe to walk—especially at night. You’re not alone. This question pops up a lot.
Let’s get into the real talk. Here’s what travelers and locals are actually saying.
🚶♂️How Far Is Too Far?
A 20-minute walk to downtown is still considered downtown in Nashville terms. That’s just a bit over a mile. So distance-wise, you’re in the clear. But when the sun goes down, it’s not just about the steps—it’s about how safe you feel taking them.
🌉 Crossing the River — Proceed with Caution
Many people say the walk from Nissan Stadium into downtown can get sketchy after dark. Even crossing the pedestrian bridge makes some feel uneasy. A few folks flat-out advise against walking alone in that area at night. And the stretch around 1st Street and the river? That’s a hard no from multiple voices.
One tip that comes up again and again: if there’s an event at the stadium, the area feels much safer due to the crowd. But on a quiet night? Consider another plan.
🏨 Hotels Near Nissan Stadium: The Good, The Meh, and The “Hmm…”
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Real experiences. No fluff.
- Comfort Inn next to Nissan Stadium: Some guests had no problems walking to and from Broadway, even at night. Others felt uneasy. One person stayed once and said they did not feel safe. Mixed bag.
- La Quinta Inn nearby: Guests say it’s doable, but “a haul” if you have mobility issues. Think 20+ minutes on foot. During big events like CMA Fest, Uber might be better—although rideshare prices can spike.
- Holiday Inn Downtown Stadium: Has a shuttle that runs until 9 p.m. Huge plus if you’re not up for a night walk.
- Hyatt House and Home2 Suites: Both on the same street, within a mile of Broadway, and considered safe by several travelers. Bonus: better prices than right on Broadway.
🧳 Where Else to Stay?
Looking for alternatives? These came up again and again as solid picks:
- Vanderbilt Area: Great for walkers during the day, and many hotels offer shuttles. Not ideal for night walks across I-40, though. Still, it’s a favorite for CMA-goers.
- Placemakr Music Row: Highly recommended by past guests for its location and late-night safety. Bonus: a few bars are right around the corner.
- Capital Hotel: Affordable, clean, walkable, and safe.
- Drury Inn (near Broadway): Central, convenient, and a go-to for those who want less walking, more fun.
- Maxwell Millennium House Hotel: A bit further out (10–15 min drive) but makes up for it with a shuttle that runs every 30 minutes to and from Broadway.
- Airbnbs & Midtown Hotels: These can be budget-friendly, but you’ll likely need a Lyft or Uber if staying further out. Midtown especially has live music and good vibes.
🛑 Final Thought: Safety First
Even if a walk seems short, don't underestimate how different a street can feel at night. If you’re solo or mobility is a concern, rideshare might be worth the few extra bucks—especially after dark. If your hotel has a shuttle, use it. If you’re unsure, trust your gut.
The distance to Broadway might be short—but peace of mind? That’s priceless.