As the home of country music and a vibrant history, Nashville has garnered a glowing reputation in the last few decades among tourists and locals alike. For an ultimate girls’ weekend, it does more than just impress.
From its colorful, downtown streets to its buzzing shopping metropolises, it truly is no surprise that it has been touted as one of the best places to have a girls’ weekend. Whether you’re coming together for a long-overdue catch-up or a showstopper bachelorette party, Nashville is sure to bring some memorable moments to the table.
Know Before You Go
Before you go anywhere new, it’s always good to have the lowdown on what to expect. Nashville is no exception; so here are some key things to bear in mind before you touch down in Music City:
Nashville isn’t called Music City for nothing. Everywhere you turn, you’ll find aspiring musicians- and not just in the country music niche. This means every bar hop will have its own unique soundtrack.
Pretty quickly, you’ll feel at home in Nashville. Small talk with locals quickly turns to chatter between friends; it’s rare to leave Nashville without a new one.
Despite its size, Nashville is surprisingly easy to get around. With regular local buses and an abundance of cab companies, you can be sure you won’t be stuck. On your first day, see the very best sights of the city by hopping on an Old Town Trolley Tour.
Must-Visit Neighborhoods
Arguably the most popular neighborhood in the city, Downtown along Broadway is where the music of Nashville comes to life. In various bars, see small and big-time musicians take to the stage.
Nestled between Belmont University and Vanderbilt University is Hillsboro Village, where there’s always something going on. Start every day with breakfast at the iconic Pancake Pantry, taking time to wander through the art-laden streets.
For more technicolored murals, head to the famously artistic 12South neighborhood. As a shopping and dining hotspot, it’s not to be missed on your girls’ weekend.
Best Hotel Options
Hotels play a big part in creating your ultimate girls’ weekend. Covering any budget, here are the three best options for you and the rest of your group:
As the number one hotel in the city, you’d be hard pressed to find a better place to stay than the Fairlane Hotel. Boasting views over the city, and located right in the heart of Downtown, add a touch of luxury to your trip by staying here.
Located in Midtown, Homewood Suites is perfect for large groups. With a shuttle service, large pool, and attractive price tag, stay close to the action on your trip.
As the name suggests, The Germantown Inn is hidden in the historic Germantown Neighborhood, offering an intimate setting for smaller groups and some signature vintage touches.
Day 1
Kickstart your girls’ weekend by seeing one of the most treasured sights in Nashville: The Parthenon. Surrounded by the vivid green grass of Centennial Park, this historical gem has been nicknamed “The Athens of the South”, and is the only full-scale replica of the famous ancient Greek landmark in the world. Being right next to one of the Old Town Trolley stops, it is more than easy to get to.
No trip to Nashville would be the same without visiting the Country Music Hall of Fame. It is impossible not to be impressed by this iconic museum and research complex, which is dedicated to preserving the country music of Nashville and beyond. Catch a country music show at the neighboring Ryman Auditorium before jumping aboard the Old Town Trolley Tour on your way to lunch.
Nashville is known for its diverse culinary scene. There’s an ideal lunch spot for everyone in your group. If you’re finishing your morning in East Nashville, head straight to city-favorite Five Points Pizza for cold beers and a casual setting, enjoy fresh foods in Butcher & Bee, or indulge in some classic American food with a global twist at The Mockingbird. If you don’t want to stray too far from your Old Town Trolley stop, head to Kitchen Notes for familiar Southern food, or to Etch for some opulent lunchtime dining.
Afternoons in Nashville are never short of exciting, especially if you visit the Grand Ole Opry. This weekly stage show is an extravaganza that can’t be missed. It celebrates the iconic history of Nashville’s country music scene, as well as some modern worldwide talents.
As your Old Town Trolley Tour takes you past the last few stops along Broadway, you’ll get your first look at the heart of Nashville. This heady district is the food and nightlife haven of the city and is an unbeatable place to start your partying for the night.
If lunch was a show opener, dinner in Nashville is the headline act. At The Pharmacy, tuck into some freshly-cooked burgers and remember to make the most of its vintage soda fountain. Sample some of the best Thai cuisine at The Smiling Elephant, and enjoy Mexican delicacies and lots of tequila at Bartaco. When you’ve had your fill, hit the town and head to Honky Tonk Central, which is known for its live music and group-friendly setting. Discover a one-of-a-kind music venue at Cumberland Caverns, and take your night out to the next level at Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar. As one of the most thriving clubs in town, dance the night away together to an eclectic blues playlist.
Day 2
No girls’ weekend is complete without a great place to relax and have breakfast. Better known as brunch for avid party goers, start your day the right way at Biscuit Love Gulch. Known for their unfathomably buttery biscuits, this gem showcases the best of southern comfort foods. Catch the best of the city’s rustic charm at Fido, and indulge in a private, group setting at Josephine on 12th, which is also perfect for upmarket dinners. Some of the tastiest coffee and warm, baked goods can be found at the charming and cozy Sky Blue Café; but for a real treat, unwind with a hearty brunch in the artsy Garden Brunch Café.
There are numerous art galleries in Nashville, but none have the same art-deco flair the Frist Art Museum boasts. Known for its rotating exhibitions, plan your girls’ weekend to coincide with some of the best, for a wholesome start to day two.
Add a classy touch to your girls’ weekend by visiting the Cheekwood Estate & Gardens. After roaming through the botanical gardens, try lunch at its on-site café, where lush, green views await.
As one of the most unique neighborhoods in Nashville, Germantown needs an afternoon of sightseeing to itself. Victorian buildings and renovated restaurants are the perfect accompaniment to window shopping at boutique stores.
Ideal for large groups looking for fun, the Nashville Pedal Tavern is a welcome twist on the classic pub crawl. Bring your own drinks and look forward to two hours of fun on a party bike.
As one of the most famous drinking spots in Nashville, prepare for an evening of bustling bars and live music when you visit Printers Alley. With string lights and endless happy hours, it’s a great place to unwind with your girls.
The pulse of a city that lives and breathes music is present in every honky-tonk and bar and in the warm breeze coming off the Cumberland River. Experience the true heart of Nashville aboard our new Soul of Music City Tour! Enjoy an evening filled with music, history, fun and a close-up view of some of the most legendary spots in town.
Day 3
It is no secret that Nashville has become a shopping haven in recent years, with the welcome buzz of its various shopping districts marking the perfect end to any girls’ weekend away. From flea markets to designer favorites, there’s something to suit any budget.
Start your shopping tour in The Gulch, a trendy neighborhood promising artisan shops in an industrial setting. Find unique clothing at Two Old Hippies and daytime dresses in Blush Boutique, before stopping for a lunchtime coffee at the nearby Milk & Honey.
If you’re looking for something special to remember your girls’ weekend by, head to The Mall at Greenhills, where abundant cafés like The Bluebird Café are scattered between designer gems like Louis Vuitton. Try haggling for vintage finds on the ever-eclectic 8Th Avenue South, and let your creative side fly in the effortlessly cool East Nashville. Here, discover unique, handcrafted items, and sample some of Nashville’s finest street food as you meander through the stalls.
Make the most of your last day together in Nashville by trying something new:
Recover from your weekend partying by having a wholesome yoga class with Shenanigoats, where baby goats entertain you during your session. A firm favorite among tourists, it’s unlikely you’ll find anyplace else that offers an experience like this.
As a key piece of history in Tennessee, make the short drive from Nashville to the Belle Meade neighborhood and visit the Belle Meade Plantation. Learn about the area as you marvel at ornate buildings, all while sipping on some locally sourced wine.
If your girls’ weekend coincides with the summer months, cool off at Nashville Shores. With wave pools, beaches and water slides, it’s a sure-fire way to end your weekend in style.