Whatever you think you know about the South, Nashville will surprise you in all the best ways. It's the kind of city that seems to meet you right where you are—and it has a heart to it that makes it feel smaller and more personal than it actually is. I visited for the first time a few weeks ago, and since I was traveling by myself, that's exactly the kind of energy I was hoping to find: something unhurried, open, and easy to settle into. It's a refreshing pace you won't find in most big cities, welcoming you with warmth and manners. When I landed, I got right into an Uber and headed to my hotel, Margaritaville Vacation Club - Nashville in Downtown Nashville. It was a quick, no-fuss drive under 15 minutes away. As I stepped out, my driver said with sincerity, “Have a wonderful vacation, ma'am.” It felt like a sign confirming what I already thought: I'd picked the right place to go on an unforgettable solo adventure. Why Travel Solo in Nashville? One thing about Music City is, if you visit on your own, it feels like you're never far from good company. Even without a crew, you'll find yourself swept up in the city's energy, having just as much fun as the clusters of girlfriends bar-hopping in sparkly boots and bachelorette sashes. And honestly? Don't be surprised if they invite you to join in for a round of drinks—I sure was. Nashville has a way of pulling people together. Here's other ways Nashville shines as the perfect destination for solo travelers: Tons of live entertainment, both free and affordable, that doesn't require a plus-one Casual dining where it's normal to eat alone. Walkable neighborhoods that all have a unique local atmosphere, perfect for wandering. A strong reputation for safety and Southern hospitality. Locals who love to share their favorite hidden gems. Plenty of daytime and nighttime activities. Where to Stay During Your Solo Trip to Nashville When travelling by yourself, safety is a top priority, and one of the biggest decisions is where you'll rest your head at night. You want a place that feels secure, keeps you close to the action, but gives you space when you want to recharge. That's why Downtown Nashville is an independent traveler's dream. Downtown Nashville Staying in Downtown Nashville puts you right in the heart of the city—where everything you came for is just a few steps away. We're talking Broadway's live music venues, the Ryman Auditorium, museums, local eats, rooftop bars, and more. It's one of the most walkable areas in the city, which means less time coordinating rides and more time exploring at your own pace. The Resort of Choice: Margaritaville Vacation Club - Nashville You won't find a better place to stay with some of the best panoramic views of the city—and it's right in the center of the city. An oasis is the best way to describe Margaritaville Vacation Club - Nashville, with its distinctive, elevated-yet-relaxed island atmosphere with plenty of amenities like on-site dining at JWB Grill and a rooftop pool and bar. Plus, each suite includes a Frozen Concoction Maker, so you can keep the party going whenever you please. Pro-tip: Try to catch golden hour at the rooftop pool—pairs delightfully with a classic margarita. Must See Attractions for Solo Travelers Whether you're in the mood to be entertained, inspired, or completely off the grid for a few hours, Nashville offers a mix of soul, style, and spontaneity. Here are some can't-miss spots that hit just right: Pro-tip: Any spots labeled 'walking distance from your resort' are within an easy 10-15 minute walk from Margaritaville Vacation Club - Nashville. Bluebird Cafe For a legendary, one-of-a-kind experience: The Bluebird Cafe is an iconic 90-seat listening room tucked inside a quiet strip mall—don't let the humble exterior fool you. It's hosted names like Keith Urban, Carole King, and Taylor Swift, and continues to be a launchpad for songwriters and rising stars. With open mics, songwriter rounds, and a cozy, intimate space, it's a bucket list stop for any music lover. Be sure to book ahead—at least a month if you can—this place fills up fast. Tootsie's Orchid Lounge For a Classic Time at a Honky Tonk: Tootsie's Orchid Lounge is a downtown Nashville icon known for its lively, high-energy vibe and nonstop live country music. Step inside and you're instantly in the heart of honky tonk culture—bright colors, cowboy hats, and maybe a little dancing on the tables. It's open daily from 9:30am to 3am, so you can swing by early or keep the night going. Walking distance from your resort! The Listening Room Café For A Honky Tonk, But with More Relaxed Vibes: The Listening Room Café is the more laid-back sibling of downtown's honky tonks. It's a warm, intimate venue serving up great food, cocktails, and incredible live music from up-and-coming talent to world-class performers. Go here to unwind with dinner and a show. Check the calendar for performance times and ticket info. Walking distance from your resort! The Country Music Hall of Fame For Country Music and Culture: The Country Music Hall of Fame is a deep dive into the rich history of country music, filled with iconic artifacts, interactive exhibits, and even access to the historic RCA Studio B, where Elvis and Dolly once recorded. It's informative, inspiring, and one of the most visited music museums in the country. Ticket prices vary depending on your experience, so plan ahead. Walking distance from your resort!Pro Tip: There is a free part of the museum that has some notable memorabilia from icons like Dolly Parton and Taylor Swift. I'd definitely recommend stopping in there if you can't experience the full museum! I couldn't resist getting myself a Dolly Parton sweater from the gift shop, and tons of other cute gifts for my friends and family like guitar-shaped fridge magnets with bottle openers, sparkly cowboy hats, and even biscuit mix and fine jewelry! The Grand Ole Opry For a Memorable Live Show: The Grand Ole Opry is Nashville's most famous stage and a must-see for any music lover. You can take a backstage tour, snap photos behind the scenes, or attend a live show and see the magic unfold in real time. This venue holds more than just concerts—it holds the soul of country music. Tour prices range from $39 to $99. Nashville Farmers' Market For a Day Outdoors: The Nashville Farmers' Market is a fun, year-round hub filled with local artisans, food vendors, and creative makers. Enjoy browsing handmade jewelry or grabbing a bite in the global food hall, it's a great way to spend a laid-back afternoon. Expect seasonal events, live music, and lots of reasons to linger. Fifth + Broadway For a Little Bit of Everything: Fifth + Broadway is not your average shopping mall—it's a full-day experience. You'll find shops, rooftop bars, local eats, live music stages, and even the National Museum of African American Music. If you're the kind of traveler who loves a one-stop spot for dining, culture, and people-watching, this place delivers. Walking distance from your resort! Prince's Hot Chicken For a Must-Try Nashville Staple: Prince's Hot Chicken is the original—and still the gold standard—for hot chicken in Tennessee. It's casual, quick, and absolutely worth the heat. You'll find a location in South Nashville or right downtown at Assembly Food Hall, perfect for grabbing a bite between sightseeing stops. Walking distance from your resort! Centennial Park For an Unforgettable Afternoon of Exploring: Centennial Park is one of Nashville's most scenic green spaces, ideal for a picnic, a morning jog, or just lounging with a coffee and a view. It's located just outside downtown and features a 1-mile walking trail, lush gardens, a band shell, and even the Tennessee State Museum nearby. It's also where you'll find a striking replica of the Parthenon, the only full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, Greece. Inside, you'll find a massive statue of Athena and rotating art exhibitions. It's a fun blend of culture, history, and architecture—and makes for a cool afternoon filled with both awe and art. Hours and admission vary, so check ahead before you go. Rudy's Jazz Room For a Unique Music Experience: Rudy's Jazz Room offers a completely different kind of night out. Tucked away near The Gulch, this sultry jazz club serves up smooth live music, craft cocktails, and Cajun/Creole fare. It's great for a take-yourself-on-a-date night where you want to slow down, sip something delicious, and let the music carry you. Riverfront Park For a Relaxing Day by the Water: Riverfront Park is a peaceful stretch of green along the Cumberland River, ideal for a midday breather or a sunset picnic. It's steeped in history and offers a lovely contrast to the city's louder attractions—especially when you just need a moment to take it all in. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens For a photo-worthy garden stroll made for dressing up: Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is a 55-acre historic estate tucked into West Nashville, home to a beautiful mix of nature and culture. You can stroll through 13 distinct gardens, explore a woodland sculpture trail, and tour the estate's art exhibitions and historical rooms. It's a peaceful, inspiring outing and a lovely way to reconnect with nature just a short drive from downtown. Radnor Lake State Park For a Break Away from the City in Nature: Radnor Lake State Park is lovely if you're craving nature. Just a short drive from downtown, this 1,300+ acre park is great for hiking, wildlife spotting, photography, or simply unplugging. Open daily from 6am to just after sunset, it's the kind of reset that pairs well with a fast-paced city trip.Pro tip: Start your day at a local café, wander into a museum or two, catch a live set in the afternoon, and wrap it up with dinner and skyline views—without ever needing to hop in a car. Discover Music City's Charming Neighborhoods Sure, Nashville's most iconic spots are worth the hype—but some of the city's best moments happen off the beaten path. These local favorites and lesser-known areas offer a quieter kind of magic if you're looking to explore deeper and get an authentic taste of Music City. East Nashville East Nashville is where the city's creative pulse really lives. This artsy, eclectic neighborhood is full of vintage shops, indie coffee spots, street art, and some of Nashville's best under-the-radar restaurants. Be sure to check out Joyland, a James Beard Award-winning restaurant that reinvents fast food in a surprisingly elevated way. East Nashville is a great area to wander, brunch, and people-watch. 12 South 12 South is one of Nashville's most walkable and Instagrammable neighborhoods. It's packed with stylish boutiques, cozy coffee shops, local bakeries, and both chill bars and high-end restaurants. If you're shopping for something unique or just strolling with a latte in hand, 12 South makes it easy to enjoy a chill afternoon without needing a plan. Germantown Germantown blends old-world charm with modern-day flavors. Just a short walk from downtown, this historic neighborhood is filled with 19th-century architecture, upscale restaurants, and access to the Nashville Farmers' Market. It's also home to the Tennessee State Museum and Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. You could easily spend a full day here exploring, eating, and learning something new. Hillsboro Village Hillsboro Village sits between Vanderbilt and Belmont Universities, giving it a youthful, local vibe that's easy to love. It's known for its indie boutiques, charming cafés, and historic architecture. Whether you're here for the shopping, the food, or just the community energy, Hillsboro is a great place to slow down and enjoy the rhythm of everyday Nashville. The Gulch The Gulch is a sleek, walkable district full of murals, live music, craft breweries, and trendy restaurants. It's got that polished, artsy energy. Grab a cold brew, snap a pic by one of the iconic murals, and enjoy the creative pulse of the neighborhood. Safety Tips for Solo Travelers in Nashville Exploring Music City on your own can be incredibly rewarding—but like any city, it pays to stay aware and prepared. These simple safety tips will help you feel secure while still having the time of your life. Keep an eye on your drink. It's a classic for a reason. Never leave your drink unattended, and always watch it being made—especially in busy bar scenes. If you're unsure, just skip it and get a fresh one. Stay aware. Nashville is generally safe and welcoming, but staying alert goes a long way. Avoid wandering into neighborhoods you're unfamiliar with, especially at night. Charge up—and stay charged. A portable charger is your best travel companion. Keeping your phone powered up makes it possible for you to navigate, call a ride, or text a friend at any time without scrambling for an outlet. Use your maps app like a local. Pin your hotel or accommodation in your phone's maps, and drop quick notes about nearby landmarks. This makes it easy to know where you are at all times—and how to get back if you lose your bearings. Keep it compact. Carry a small, easy-to-manage day bag or clutch that keeps your essentials close (wallet, phone, ID, keys). Whether you're dancing at a honky tonk or walking through a neighborhood, having everything in one place gives peace of mind. Pro tip: Share your general plans or location with a friend or family member before heading out for the day or night. A quick check-in helps you feel connected and adds a layer of reassurance. Where to Eat as a Solo Traveler in Nashville Traveling by yourself means you get to eat exactly what you want, when you want it—and in Nashville, that's a major win. From creative takes on fast food to treehouse-inspired dining, the city is full of wallet-friendly spots that don't skimp on flavor or experience. These solo-friendly spots serve up great food, good vibes, and zero awkwardness about dining alone. The Finch Located in Union Station, The Finch is an elevated yet laid-back American grill with creative plates and a modern, spacious atmosphere. While it's a bit higher in the price range, the quality, ambiance, and craft cocktails make it worth the splurge—especially for a night you want to feel a little fancy. Walking distance from your resort! The Treehouse Dining solo doesn't have to mean boring—and The Treehouse proves it. This East Nashville treasure offers a farm-to-table menu with a whimsical, woodsy vibe that literally makes you feel like you're eating in a treehouse. It's cozy, creative, and a total experience. Great for brunch or a quiet dinner where you can savor every bite and sip. Assembly Food Hall If variety is your love language, Assembly Food Hall on Broadway is your spot. It was my go-to more than once because of all the options. It features an open-concept space full of food stalls serving everything from ramen to pizza to Southern comfort food. Plus, it's home to Prince's Hot Chicken, a must-try in Nashville. Bonus: there's often live music on the rooftop Skydeck and plenty of seating, so dining solo still feels like being part of the action. Walking distance from your resort!Pro Tip: The hot chicken sandwich from Prince's is a must, but my favorite spot for a sweet treat was NoBaked Cookie Dough, an edible cookie dough bar with flavors like chocolate chip and red velvet. You can even get toppings, just like an ice cream bar! 6th and Peabody This SoBro hotspot 6th and Peabody is part distillery, part brewery, and part hangout. With food trucks, live music, yard games, and giant screens, it's a great place to eat, drink, and even make a few new friends. You'll love the laid-back, open-air vibe—and the opportunity to join in on a casual cornhole game or concert. Pie Town Tacos For a low-key, no-fuss bite, Pie Town Tacos hits the spot. Located in the SoBro and East Nashville neighborhoods, it's known for its laid-back setting, tasty tacos, and fun little sweets on the side. It's the kind of place where you can grab a seat, enjoy your meal, and head back out to explore in no time. Joyland Created by James Beard Award-winning chef Sean Brock, Joyland offers a gourmet twist on fast food—and it's anything but basic. Think inventive burgers, fried chicken, and crave-worthy sides. Located in East Nashville, head here for a lunch or early dinner that feels indulgent without breaking the bank. Hattie Jane's Creamery Sometimes, a scoop of small-batch ice cream is all you need, especially on a hot day. Hattie Jane's Creamery specializes in Southern-inspired flavors and creamy, handcrafted treats. It's the perfect pick-me-up when you want a sweet break during your day out. Walking distance from your resort! Bongo Java Looking for a caffeine-fueled pause? Bongo Java is Nashville's oldest and most beloved coffeehouse, offering 100% organic coffee and a selection of fresh baked goods. With locations in SoBro, Belmont, Hillsboro, and East Nashville, it's easy to find a cozy corner to journal, people-watch, or plan your next move. Cost-Effective Transportation Around Nashville Getting around the city doesn't have to break the bank. Here are some budget-friendly ways to navigate Music City: On Foot: Walkable Neighborhoods Nashville features several walkable areas, especially in and around downtown. Once you're in the heart of the city, neighborhoods like SoBro, The Gulch, 12 South, and East Nashville are easily explored on foot. It's an easy way to immerse yourself in the local culture, discover lesser-known spots, and enjoy spontaneous adventures. WeGo Public Transit: Affordable and Accessible WeGo Public Transit operates 27 local bus routes and 9 regional routes, making it a cost-effective option for getting around the city. Fares are straightforward: 2-Hour Pass: $2.00 – unlimited rides within a 2-hour window. All-Day Pass: $4.00 – unlimited rides for the entire day. For frequent riders, multi-day passes are available: 7-Day Pass: $20.00 20-Ride Pass: $40.00 31-Day Pass: $65.00 These passes can be purchased through WeGo's QuickTicket system or at various retail locations. Rideshare and Taxis: Convenient but Costlier Services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Nashville and can be convenient for trips outside the main transit areas or during late hours. Traditional taxis are also an option, though they may be less prevalent. Keep in mind that these services are generally more expensive than public transit, so use them judiciously to stay within budget. Tips for Navigating the City Plan Ahead: Use map apps to familiarize yourself with the city layout and transit routes. Stay Charged: Carry a portable charger to ensure your phone remains powered for navigation and safety. Pin Your Location: Save your accommodation's location in your map app for easy reference. Travel Light: A small day bag or clutch can keep your essentials secure and easily accessible. Try This Nashville Itinerary for a Long Weekend with Yourself I think a trip to Nashville could go a full week with endless days of fun - but a long weekend gives you a great sample of what you can experience—and a reason to come back. Day 1: Welcome to Music City – Check In + Broadway Energy Ease into your trip with a slow, luxurious morning at your hotel at Margaritaville Vacation Club - Nashville, head straight to the rooftop bar for a celebratory drink. Spend the afternoon exploring Downtown Nashville and the electric energy of Broadway. Duck into live music venues (they play all day!), browse souvenir shops, and soak up the rhythm of the city. Grab a bite at Assembly Food Hall, where you can sample global flavors, grab a drink, and maybe even catch a rooftop show. Cap off the night with a little dancing, people-watching, or a honky tonk crawl—your pace, your vibe. Day 2: Neighborhood Hopping – Explore Local Gems Today is all about getting to know Nashville's personality-packed neighborhoods. Each one has its own rhythm and personality, and most are easy to explore on foot or via public transit or rideshare. Start in 12 South for coffee, boutique shopping, and street art. Head to East Nashville for artsy vibes, vintage finds, and lunch at Joyland (a local favorite). Wander through Germantown for historic architecture, a pastry pit stop, and maybe a stroll through the Nashville Farmers' Market. Stop by Hillsboro Village or The Gulch to wrap up your day with a little browsing or people-watching. Let the neighborhoods guide you—this is the day to follow your curiosity. Day 3: Parks, Picnics, and Rooftop Vibes Slow it down with a morning at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. Walk the scenic paths, reflect at the fountains, and soak up some sun. Then head to Centennial Park to visit The Parthenon, Nashville's full-scale replica of the Greek original—complete with towering Athena. Pick up picnic fare from Prince's Hot Chicken or Joyland and enjoy a peaceful meal outdoors. In the afternoon, head back to your hotel for some rooftop lounging. The Margaritaville Vacation Club - Nashville rooftop pool and bar is a nice escape for reading, journaling, or watching the skyline turn golden at sunset with a drink in-hand. There's also a shaded area by the pool to relax or play a round of corn hole, and the fire pits create the ultimate ambiance under the night sky. If you're feeling re-energized, head back to Broadway for round two of Nashville's legendary nightlife. Day 4: History, Hits, and Heartfelt Music Time to tap into Nashville's roots. Spend your day immersed in the soul of country music with visits to: The Country Music Hall of Fame – dive into iconic stories and memorabilia. RCA Studio B – tour the historic studio where Elvis, Dolly, and others made magic. The Grand Ole Opry – take a tour or book ahead for a live show if time allows. In the evening, wind down with a more intimate musical experience. Snag a seat at The Bluebird Cafe or The Listening Room Café—both offer cozy, soul-stirring songwriter sessions. Go on the Solo Adventure of a Lifetime in Nashville By the end of your long weekend in Nashville, don't be surprised if you feel a little more connected—to the music, the people, and even yourself. That's the magic of traveling independently in Music City. With every honky tonk, quiet café, and unexpected moment of kindness, the city welcomes you in and leaves you wanting just one more day.
