How to Spend 48 Hours in Nashville: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary

A thriving nightlife, mouthwatering BBQ, and more live music than you could ever imagine—these are just a few of the highlights that make Nashville a must-visit destination. Tennessee’s capital is a city that pulses with energy, where country roots meet a vibrant, modern culture. Known for its legendary music scene, deep history, and Southern hospitality, Nashville offers an endless array of experiences. From dancing in a lively Honky Tonk on Broadway to exploring historic landmarks like Centennial Park, every moment here is filled with excitement. Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Music City guarantees an unforgettable 48-hour adventure.

Day One

Secure Accommodations

If you’re spending 48 hours in Music City, you’ll need somewhere to sleep, or at the very least a place to leave your things while you stay up all night. Lucky for you, Nashville has ample accommodation options to fit nearly every budget. For a great deal, check out the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson. This popular chain hotel is located conveniently near the airport, about 15 minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Broadway Street. The Inn at Opryland is also a great option for those who want to be close to the action and don’t mind the steeper price point.

Alternatively, there are endless vacation rentals available if you’d rather stay somewhere a bit unique. Wherever you choose to rest your head, or your bags, get checked in as quickly as possible so the real fun can begin. 

Fuel Up For A Day Of Fun

Since your next few hours are going to be jam-packed with exploration, it's important to fuel up for the day with a hearty Nashville-style breakfast. Whether you’re craving hot chicken on a biscuit, a classic plate of bacon and eggs, or something to satisfy your sweet tooth, you will find all that and more at Milk & Honey. Those seeking a flavorful option that won’t break the bank will appreciate the selection at Big Al's, or try the popular Midtown Cafe for an authentic Southern plate.

Hop On Hop Off With Old Town Trolley Tour

Nashville’s Old Town Trolley Tour is one of the best and most convenient ways to explore the city’s top attractions. With many of these popular sights located downtown, where parking is often scarce and expensive, the trolley provides a hassle-free way to see everything. And hopping on and off at your own conscience isn’t bad either.

Naturally, you won’t have time to explore every attraction in one afternoon, but some highlights of the tour include The Johnny Cash Museum, The Patsy Cline Museum, The Country Music Hall of Fame, the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum, Music Row, the Ryman Auditorium, and Centennial Park, just to name a few. 

Visit Broadway And Get Your Honky Tonk On

Broadway Street, also known as Honky Tonk Highway, is a popular street located in the heart of downtown Nashville. Lined with Honky Tonk bars, flashing neon lights, live music pouring out of every corner, and more toe-tapping cowboy boots than you’ve ever seen, it’s the perfect place to experience Nashville’s vibrant music scene and lively atmosphere. Whether you're stopping in for a cold drink, dancing to live bands, or soaking in the energetic vibe, Broadway offers something for everyone. You will also find tons of fun places to grab a bite for dinner in this area including a handful of celebrity restaurants such as Justin Timberlake’s Twelve Thirty Club or Miranda Lambert's Casa Rosa. But, for a quintessential Nashville bite, you simply can’t beat Rodney Scott's Whole Hog BBQ.

Day Two

There’s More To Nashville Than Music

While places like Broadway Street, Music Row, and various music-themed museums are a huge part of Nashville’s culture, there is far more to see and do in town. Start your second and final day off by exploring the rest of what this great city has to offer. Starting at Cheekwood Botanical Gardens & Estate. Here, you can wander peacefully through carefully maintained gardens featuring everything from tulips to pumpkins. There is also a historic estate and plenty of artwork to admire here as well. If there’s time, the Nashville Zoo and the Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery are also worth a visit. 

Time For Lunch

After witnessing the more outdoorsy side of Nashville, it’s time to break for lunch. There are a handful of great lunch spots located pretty close to Cheekwood Botanical Gardens. For something quick, light, and healthy check out The Picnic Cafe. The charming restaurant has been in operation since 1983 and prides itself on “making everything in our own kitchen, using the same ingredients our mothers and grandmothers use.” If pub fare sounds like a better fit for you, then Sam's Place Belle Meade is just what you’re looking for.

A Few Final Stops

As your 48 hours slowly come to a close, be sure to sneak in as many last-minute activities as possible. Start with a stroll through Centennial Park where you can admire nature, check out the Parthenon, explore the Centennial Art Center, and find various historical monuments. Next, gearheads will want to head to the Lane Motor Museum. Here, you will find 150 different cars and motorcycles, some dating back to the early 1900s. Finally, Warner Parks makes for a peaceful outing with 3,100 acres of land, various hiking trails, and scenic lookout points. 

Go Out With A Country Bang!

Nashville is famous for its unparalleled live music scene, especially on Broadway, but before you leave the city, experiencing a performance at the Grand Ole Opry is a must. Start your evening with a delicious dinner at the nearby Aquarium Restaurant, just a short walk from the Opry. After enjoying both the food and the attractions at the Aquarium, it’s time to head over for the show. The Grand Ole Opry hosts live performances every Friday, Saturday, and Tuesday, with occasional shows on Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday. With a bit of planning, you might even catch one of your favorite artists performing. As the Opry website puts it, “Each live show features eight or more artists—from Opry legends like Ricky Skaggs and Keith Urban to rising stars like Ella Langley and 49 Winchester—celebrating the genre’s rich legacy while embracing its next chapter.”

Wrapping Up Your Perfect Nashville Weekend

While 48 hours in Music City never feels like enough, there are still plenty of iconic attractions and experiences you can fit into your itinerary with a little planning. Whether you’re a music lover looking to immerse yourself in one of the best music scenes in the country or a history buff interested in taking a deeper look at the city’s storied past, Nashville will not disappoint.