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

• Reef walking sandals

• Athleta resort and travel outfits

• Bleu Rod Beattie Swimsuits

• Away crossbody

• MD SolarSciences Sunscreen

• Portable charger

🎶 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.

🍽️ 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)

1. Virgin Hotels Nashville — stylish, fun, great rooftop - Check Availability

2. The Joseph — luxury + rooftop pool - Check availability

3. Thompson Nashville — boutique vibe in The Gulch - Check availability

4. Omni Nashville — perfect for families - Check availability

5. 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.

Explore more:

• Cruise Hub

• Hotel Reviews

• Beginner Guide