Welcome to Music City, where the rhythms of business and pleasure harmonize seamlessly. Whether you’re a seasoned conference-goer or a first-time visitor,  Nashville offers an unforgettable backdrop for blending professional opportunities with our vibrant culture. 

As the heartbeat of Tennessee’s convention scene, the Music City Center convention center stands as a beacon of innovation and collaboration, drawing professionals from around the globe. 

But Nashville is more than just a destination for work; it’s a stage where business ambitions meet the soul-stirring melodies of country music, the savory notes of Southern cuisine, and the warm hospitality of its people.

Below is the ultimate Nashville Visitors Guide of how to get the most out of the city, through the lens of a conference-goer.

Music City Center

Photo courtesy of Visit Music City

Getting to know Music City Center

Completed in 2013, the facilities are state-of-the-art and modern, equipped to accommodate both enormous conventions and intimate gatherings with the latest technological capabilities

Taking up an entire city block, this convention center boasts 2.1 million square feet of exhibit halls, conference and meeting rooms, ballrooms and a grand lobby

The best part about the Music City Center is the location, making it easy to walk to Nashville’s greatest attractions between meetings:

The Nashville Visitor Center is a 3 min. walk from Music City Center and is an excellent resource for expert advice, maps and tickets. 

Downtown Nashville Accomodations

Accommodation Options

There are many hotel options within walking distance of Music City Center, making it a convenient hub for business and lodging. We’ve broken down options based on cost.

Budget

Midrange

Luxury

If you are traveling with a tight-knit team and want to rent an AirBnB OR if conference-goers want to prioritize trendy neighborhoods over proximity to the convention center, check out the Trendiest Neighborhoods to Stay in

A group of friends out in Downtown Nashville

Dining and Nightlife Around the Convention Center

Music City Center could not be in a better location to sample some of Nashville’s best restaurants and get a taste of its authentic cuisine. We’ve broken down both iconic restaurants that are a must-visit for tourists along with local favorites, most within walking distance!

Southern/BBQ/Quintessential Nashville options

Iconic bars/Honky Tonks

Celebrity Bars

Local Favorites/Off the Beaten Path/Worth a rideshare

Got a big group? No problem! We’ve rounded up some of our favorite Nashville Restaurants for Large Groups

What Lifts you Mural in Nashville, TN

Exploring Nashville Between Sessions and After-Hours

Whether you have time built into your conference schedule, or you take a quick reprieve to squeeze in some culture, we’ve got you covered. For an overview, check out Places to Visit in Nashville for First Timers

Must-see sights within walking distance of Music City Center

  • Walk of Fame – located alongside the Nashville Music Garne, this landmark tribute to those that have contributed to the Nashville music community, like Jimi Hendrix, Ben Folds and Dolly Parton 
  • Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
  • John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge – spanning the Cumberland River, the bridge is one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world
  • Johnny Cash Museum
  • Nashville What Lifts You Mural – Perhaps one of the most adored and recognizable photo spots in the city with the pair of angel wings, you’ll typically find a short line of tourists waiting to take a pic
  • Frist Art Museum
  • Honky Tonk Highway

While downtown Nashville provides a wonderful homebase for conference-goers, it’s only a slice of what makes Nashville, Nashville. There are several notable neighborhoods worth a walk or a short drive from Music City Center that we promise are worth time to explore. 

  • The Gulch: A 12 min. walk to this trendy, vibrant neighborhood, you’ll find excellent boutique and upscale shopping with lots of famous murals along the way. 
  • Midtown: An 8 min. drive brings you to a neighborhood packed with nightlife options for all, including laid back bars, gay bars and club and raucous rock clubs. 
  • SoBro (South of Broadway): A 1 min. walk will bring you to an urban district known for its upscale dining, bustling bars and vibrant entertainment options.
  • East Nashville: An 11 min. drive delivers you to a neighborhood with a quirky vibe known for street art, upbeat bars, and trendy restaurants.  
  • Music Row: A 5 min. drive to a neighborhood renowned for its concentration of music-related businesses, including recording studios, record labels, and music publishing houses, making it the heart of Nashville’s music industry.
  • Germantown: An 8 min. Drive to a neighborhood known for its historic Victorian buildings, charming brick sidewalks and elegant boutiques.
  • 12 South – An 8 min. drive to this upscale residential neighborhood promises trendy, designer shops, unique vintage offerings and numerous dining options

Maybe you need a little shopping therapy after a day full of conferences, or perhaps you’ve promised some kids at home some souvenirs. We’ve rounded up the Ultimate Guide to Shopping in Nashville.

Love blending in with the locals when traveling? Check out how to live like Nashvillians do with the Locals’ Side of Nashville.

Corporate Outing with Nashville Pedal Tavern

Networking and After-Hours Activities

Looking for a structured team-building activity that integrates seeing the great city of Nashville? Check out the tours and adventures below:

  • Nashville Pedal Tavern (check out why this is the best option!) – reserve one party bike or rent our whole fleet! Pedaling down Broadway is an iconic, unforgettable experience!
  • Bevē Shopping Tour – Take a small group in a luxury bus to visit the best shopping in Nashville
  • Mural Walking Tour – An active way to see the city and get great group photos
  • Grand Ole Opry Show – Group reservations are available for this iconic show!
  • General Jackson Show Boat – Cruise the Cumberland River on this gorgeous paddleboat while enjoying a show and a fabulous meal
  • Nashville Toons – Celebrate your hardworking team with a stress-free boat ride on a tricked-out pontoon

Did the meeting end early? Check out this blog about Happy Hours in the city.

Looking for Ideas for more casual, unstructured spots for a team outing? Check out these bars & restaurants that offer a little more than just food and drink.

Tennessee State Capitol in Nashville, TN

Nashville Sites of Cultural Significance 

Nashville is a city steeped in rich history, ranging from the civil war to music. Below are just a few sites to take in when you want to know why Nashville is such a mecca for culture, cuisine and music.

Bike rentals in downtown Nashville

Transportation and Getting Around Music City

  • Walking: Nashville is proud to be a very walkable city, with many iconic attractions being pedestrian-friendly.
  • Bikes: Renting a bike in Nashville is easy and convenient, with many companies doing day-long or hourly rentals, and safe shared bike lanes and greenways throughout the city.
  • Electrics Scooters: Rent a scooter but unlocking a scooter with a smartphone app from companies like Lime and Bird. 
  • Rideshares: Uber and Lyft are prevalent in the Nashville area and beyond, and provide a good and available option for late night rides.
  • Public transportation is reliable and affordable on the Nashville MTA buses. Guests can ride for $2 during a 2-hour period, or pay $5 for a daily pass.

Safety and Practical Tips

  1. Whenever possible, travel with friends or in groups, especially at night. There’s safety in numbers, and you’re less likely to be targeted when you’re not alone.
  2. Stick to reputable businesses and tourist attractions.
  3. If you’re enjoying Nashville’s nightlife, drink responsibly and know your limits. Don’t accept drinks from strangers, and never leave your drink unattended.
  4. Prepare for heat and humidity during the summer months. Hats, sunscreen and proper hydration are a must.
  5. Layers are suggested during the fall and spring as temperatures can fluctuate greatly from morning into afternoon
  6. Don’t be fooled by all the cowboy boots; opt for comfy shoes!

Nashville Weather by the Season

Nashville experiences four distinct seasons; we’ve broken down the temperature, precipitation and crowds for each. 

Nashville Spring Weather

  • Months: March, April, May
  • Average Temp: 59 degrees F
  • Precipitation: More rain; average 12 rainy days/month
  • Crowds: Average crowds

Nashville Summer Weather

(Psst. visiting during the summer? Here are 20 Summertime Things to Do in Nashville.)

  • Months: June, July, August
  • Average Temp: 79 degrees F (hottest season)
  • Precipitation: Some rain; average 10 rainy days/month
  • Popularity: High season

Nashville Fall Weather

  • Months: September, October, November
  • Average Temp: 61 degrees F
  • Precipitation: Some rain; average 9 rainy days/month
  • Popularity: Low season; least busy season

Nashville Winter Weather

  • Months: December, January, February
  • Average Temp: 41 degrees F (coldest season)
  • Precipitation: More rain; average 11 rainy days/month
  • Popularity: Average crowds

Mural stop along the NPT route

It can be easy to let the business of a conference consume your time and energy, but when your conference location is as cool as Nashville, exploring beyond the walls of the convention center is a MUST.  

Don’t let the four walls of the meeting room box you in. With the ideal location of Music City Center, there’s no excuses not to dive into the music, the food and the vibe of Nashville. So, when you’ve got a break between sessions or the day’s done, be sure to hit the town!