Self-Guided Walking Tour of Nashville's Music Heritage
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Self-Guided Walking Tour of Nashville's Music Heritage

Active
2h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore downtown Nashville on a self-guided walking tour that highlights the city’s rich history and vibrant music culture.

Journey from the Cumberland River’s banks to the lively streets of Broadway, discovering how Nashville evolved from a frontier outpost into the heart of America’s Music City.

This flexible tour allows you to stroll past significant landmarks, including sites linked to Indigenous history, the Civil War, and iconic musicians.

Along the way, you’ll uncover compelling stories of resilience and creativity that define Nashville’s unique identity.

— Discover Nashville’s transformation from a frontier outpost to a musical hub.
— Visit landmarks related to Indigenous history and civil rights.
— Experience the roots of country, gospel, and blues music at your own pace.
— An immersive journey blending history, culture, and music in one vibrant city.

Available options

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Nashville's Music Heritage

What's included

Flexible Usage (unlimited access)
Audio Guide
App and Tour Download

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1 Pass by

Celebrating the artists behind the hits, this museum honors studio musicians, producers, and songwriters from every genre. Its exhibits spotlight the unsung talent that shaped the soundtrack of American music.

2

This neon-lit stretch of Broadway is Nashville’s live-music heartbeat, where bands play seven nights a week with no cover charge. Walking the strip offers an unforgettable mix of sounds, street life, and classic Southern nightlife.

3
Stop 3 Pass by

Dedicated to the life and legacy of the Man in Black, this museum holds the world’s most extensive collection of Johnny Cash memorabilia. It’s a tribute to his music, his storytelling, and his enduring cultural influence.

4
Stop 4 Pass by

Often called the Smithsonian of Country Music, this landmark museum showcases legendary artists, iconic instruments, and immersive exhibits that shaped America’s soundscape. Its striking modern architecture mirrors the creativity found inside.

5
Stop 5

This 19-acre park offers a sweeping view of the Tennessee State Capitol while tracing 200 years of state history through monuments, pathways, and landscaped features. Its granite maps, WWII memorial, and Rivers of Tennessee fountains make it a beautiful and meaningful stop.

6

Home to the Nashville Predators and countless major concerts, Bridgestone Arena sits at the heart of downtown’s entertainment district. Even from the outside, the venue’s energy reflects the city’s constant rhythm of live performance.

7
Stop 7 Pass by

Housed in a magnificent 1930s Art Deco post office, the Frist Art Museum features rotating exhibitions from around the world. Its blend of historic architecture and contemporary art creates one of Nashville’s most inspiring cultural spaces.

8
Stop 8 Pass by

Founded in 1879, Hatch Show Print is one of the oldest working letterpress print shops in the country. Its bold, hand-printed posters tell a visual story of Nashville’s music scene and remain beloved by artists and collectors alike.

9

Once home to printing shops, speakeasies, and jazz clubs, Printer’s Alley remains one of Nashville’s most atmospheric historic districts. Its narrow brick passageway still echoes with decades of nightlife, creativity, and musical experimentation.

10
Stop 10 Pass by

Known as the Mother Church of Country Music, the Ryman blends stunning acoustics with over a century of iconic performances. Its pew-lined sanctuary offers a rare chance to step inside the birthplace of the Grand Ole Opry.

11
Stop 11 Pass by

This elegant concert hall is home to the Grammy-winning Nashville Symphony and features architecture inspired by Europe’s great classical venues. Even from the plaza, you can appreciate its refined design and cultural impact on the city.

12
Stop 12

Completed in 1859, the Tennessee State Capitol is one of the oldest working statehouses in the U.S. Its stately Greek Revival design crowns the hill overlooking downtown, symbolizing Nashville’s political and historic roots.

13

A reconstruction of the 1780 frontier settlement, Fort Nashborough marks the birthplace of Nashville along the Cumberland River. It offers a glimpse into the challenges and resilience of the city’s earliest European settlers.

14

Built in the 1870s, this Gothic Revival landmark is one of Nashville’s most striking architectural treasures. Its stone arches and ornate detailing make it a standout among downtown’s historic structures.

What's not included

Smartphone (bring your own)

Available languages

Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Works entirely offline once downloaded—no cell service required
GPS-triggered audio plays automatically based on your location
Flexible - Buy once, use any day/time—access never expires
Get the Drives & Detours app download the tour ahead of time

Meeting point

Fort Nashborough is a series of log cabins on 1st Avenue North beside the Cumberland River. 1st Avenue North can be accessed from Broadway and Church Street.

Important notes

IMPORTANT – YOUR ACCESS CODE IS: NYG287 - PLEASE READ STEPS BELOW -

To access your tour, you’ll need the Drives & Detours App. We recommend downloading the tour in advance in case cell service is unreliable.

DOWNLOAD THE APP:
iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/drives-detours/id6443681888
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mytoursapp.android.app6506

UNLOCK YOUR TOUR:

1. Open app, tap "Walking Tours", then "Self-Guided Walking Tour of Nashville's Music Heritage"
2. Enter Your Access Code (on iPhone tap "Login to Download" then "Login")
3. Tap "Download Tour" and wait until complete (1-2 minutes)

STARTING THE TOUR:

1. Open app, select your tour
2. Go to start location shown
3. Tap “Start Tour”

ADDITIONAL NOTES:
Tour is valid for 180 days, no need to reschedule
Questions? TEXT us at 619.324.9920

About Nashville

Nashville, the capital of Tennessee, is renowned as the heart of country music and a vibrant cultural hub. With its rich musical heritage, lively entertainment scene, and Southern charm, it offers a unique blend of history, music, and culinary delights.

Top Attractions

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

A must-visit for music lovers, this museum showcases the history of country music with exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.

Museum 2-3 hours $27.95 (adults), $22.95 (seniors), $17.95 (children)

Ryman Auditorium

Known as the 'Mother Church of Country Music,' this iconic venue has hosted legendary performances and remains a key part of Nashville's music scene.

Historical/Entertainment 1-2 hours (tour), variable for performances $25 (tour), varies for shows

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

A beautiful outdoor park that honors Tennessee's history with monuments, walking paths, and scenic views of the State Capitol.

Historical/Park 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hot Chicken

Fried chicken coated in a spicy, cayenne pepper-infused oil, served with pickles and white bread.

Dinner Not vegetarian or vegan

Meat and Three

A classic Southern meal consisting of a meat dish and three sides, such as collard greens, mac and cheese, and fried okra.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available

Biscuits and Gravy

Fluffy biscuits smothered in creamy, savory sausage gravy.

Breakfast Not vegetarian or vegan

Popular Activities

Hiking in Radnor Lake State Park Kayaking on the Cumberland River Spa day at The Hermitage Hotel Picnic in Centennial Park Visiting the Frist Art Museum Attending a performance at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center Boating on Percy Priest Lake Ice skating at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park (seasonal)

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. The city is lively with music events and tourists.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: Spanish
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-6 (Central Time Zone)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Nashville is generally safe, but like any major city, it has areas with higher crime rates. Exercise caution in less touristy areas, especially at night.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Avoid walking alone at night in less touristy areas
  • • Use reputable taxi or rideshare services

Getting there

By air
  • Nashville International Airport • 12 km from city center
By train

Nashville Union Station

By bus

Greyhound Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system covers most of the city, with frequent routes and affordable fares.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown The Gulch 12 South

Day trips

Franklin
30 km (18 miles) • Half day to full day

A charming historic town with Civil War sites, antique shops, and a vibrant food scene.

Lynnville
65 km (40 miles) • Full day

A small town with a beautiful lake and outdoor activities, perfect for a relaxing day trip.

Festivals

CMA Fest • June Nashville Film Festival • October

Pro tips

  • Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame early in the morning to avoid crowds
  • Explore the street art in The Gulch and 12 South neighborhoods
  • Try hot chicken from multiple spots to compare the flavors
  • Take a stroll along the Cumberland River for beautiful views of the city
  • Check out live music on Broadway, especially on weekends
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 11-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 10
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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