Nashville Essentials: What to Pack, Do, Eat & Where to Stay
Nashville
Nashville is one of those cities where you can pack light and still feel totally unprepared if you don’t know what to expect. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, a bachelorette party, a concert, or your very first trip, this Nashville Essentials List covers exactly what to pack, where to go, what to eat, and how to get around—without the guesswork.
Full disclosure: some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you use my link to purchase an item, I might earn a small commission.
Perfect for first‑timers, weekend trips, bachelorette parties, and family getaways.
🧳 What to Pack
Comfortable walking shoes (Broadway + Gulch = lots of steps)
Light layers — weather swings fast
Denim jacket or leather jacket for nights out
Cute but comfy outfits for honky‑tonks
Swimsuit (hotel pools + rooftop bars)
Portable phone charger
Crossbody bag or belt bag
Refillable water bottle
Sunscreen + sunglasses
Earplugs (Broadway gets LOUD)
Local tip - You will also need Band-Aids if you try to break in your cowboy boots when you get here.
Shop My Nashville Essentials
Shop My Nashville Essentials
Arrington Vineyards Essentials
If you’re planning a vineyard afternoon, here are the things I always bring to make the day easy, comfortable, and fun. Arrington is picnic‑friendly, music‑filled, and spread across rolling hills — so a little prep goes a long way.
What to bring:
A lightweight picnic blanket (the hillside gets busy on weekends)
A cooler bag for snacks and drinks
Reusable wine tumblers for outdoor sipping
Sun protection — hat, sunscreen, lightweight layers
A light jacket for fall sunsets
These are the exact items I use for vineyard days, outdoor concerts, and Nashville weekend adventures.
🎶 Must‑Do Experiences
Broadway honky‑tonks (Tootsies, Jason Aldean’s, Kid Rock’s)
The Gulch murals + shopping
Ryman Auditorium tour
Country Music Hall of Fame
Grand Ole Opry show
12South boutiques + murals
Predators Game
Live music everywhere — even at 10 a.m.
🍷 Want a Relaxing Day Trip from Nashville?
Arrington Vineyards is just 30 minutes away — and it’s one of my favorite easy escapes. Read my full guide to Arrington Vineyards → Arrington Vineyards: A Perfect Nashville Day Trip (Local Tips + Shuttle Options)
🍽️ Essential Nashville Eats
Princes Hot Chicken
Hot chicken (Hattie B’s, Prince’s)
Biscuit Love (bonuts!)
Martin’s BBQ or Peg Leg Porker
Five Daughters Bakery (100‑layer donuts)
Assembly Food Hall for variety
Local coffee: Frothy Monkey, Barista Parlor
🏨 Where to Stay (Quick Picks)
Virgin Hotels Nashville — stylish, fun, great rooftop - Check Availability
The Joseph — luxury + rooftop pool - Check availability
Thompson Nashville — boutique vibe in The Gulch - Check availability
Omni Nashville — perfect for families - Check availability
Graduate Nashville — Dolly‑themed fun - Check availability
🚗 Getting Around
Rideshare is easiest
Walkable neighborhoods: Gulch, 12South, Downtown
Parking is pricey — plan ahead
Scooters are everywhere (use with caution)
🎁 Souvenirs Worth Bringing Home
Design a goo goo cluster
Goo Goo Clusters - we love creating our own
Local hot sauce
Hatch Show Print posters
Nashville‑themed tees or hats
Vinyl from local shops
✍️ About Julie
Julie is the founder of No Point Left Behind, where she helps travelers stack points, perks, and smart strategies to make luxury travel affordable. She specializes in cruises, hotel loyalty programs, and beginner‑friendly points and miles guides. Her mission is simple: travel smarter, spend less, and make every trip count.
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