Nashville is known for its vibrant music scene, mouthwatering Southern eats, and exciting nightlife—but that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to experience it all! Whether you’re a country music fan, a foodie, or just looking for a fun getaway, here’s how to explore Music City on a budget.
Cheap Eats & Local Flavors
Nashville is home to some of the most iconic Southern cuisine, and being on a budget doesn’t mean you have to miss out! From hot chicken to classic BBQ and delicious comfort food, you’ll find plenty of affordable eats that hit the spot. Here are a few must-try spots:
- Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack – The original hot chicken joint, serving up legendary flavor without the fancy prices.
- Mas Tacos Por Favor – A cash-only taco spot with mouthwatering, budget-friendly bites.
- The Pharmacy – Known for its incredible burgers and house-made sodas at reasonable prices.
- Robert’s Western World – Grab a fried bologna sandwich and enjoy live music for a true Nashville experience!
- Assembly Food Hall – A food lover’s paradise with a wide variety of affordable eats, including local favorites like Southern BBQ, tacos, and craft beer from Nashville’s best vendors.
- Postino – For a fun, budget-friendly evening, head to Postino, where you can enjoy their Board and Bottle night on Mondays and Tuesdays. Get a board and bottle for just $25!
For more on Nashville’s best happy hour deals and restaurant specials, be sure to check out Nashville Guru’s Guide to Happy Hours and Specials. Whether you’re craving cocktails, craft beer, or discounted bites, this guide has all the info you need to make the most of your Nashville experience!
Free & Low-Cost Attractions
Who says you have to spend big to experience the best of Nashville? From live music to scenic parks and historic landmarks, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the city for free (or close to it!). Check out these top low-cost attractions:
- Broadway Honky Tonks – Enjoy free live music at famous spots like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge and Robert’s Western World and so many more on Broadway! Grab a drink a front-row seat to some of the best up-and-coming artists in Nashville.
- The Parthenon – For just a small entry fee, you can explore this full-scale replica of Greece’s iconic landmark in the heart of Centennial Park.
- John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge – Take in the best views of the city skyline (and snap the perfect photo) with a stroll across this iconic bridge.
- Music Row Stroll – Walk through Nashville’s historic Music Row and see where some of the biggest names in music recorded their hits.
- 12 South Murals – Instagram-worthy murals? Check! Stroll through this trendy neighborhood for colorful street art and unique boutiques.
- Music City Walk of Fame – Celebrate legendary artists who shaped Nashville’s music scene with a visit to this outdoor star-studded attraction, honoring icons from Johnny Cash to Dolly Parton for free!
- Weekly Public Coffee Cuppings at Frothy Monkey Roasting Co. – Coffee lovers, this one’s for you! Experience free guided tasting of expertly roasted coffee at Frothy Monkey Roasting Co. every Friday—perfect for discovering new flavors and learning more about the craft of coffee.
- Bluebird Café – Catch Nashville’s vibrant music scene at the Bluebird Café, where you can enjoy free open mic night every Monday at 6 p.m. and discover new talent while soaking in the authentic Nashville vibe.
- Distillery/Bourbon Tours – For just $10, you can tour some of Nashville’s finest distilleries and taste the local bourbon, a must for whiskey lovers!
- Walk the Cumberland River – Stroll along the scenic Cumberland River and take in beautiful views of the city skyline and the water.
- Walk the Gulch – Explore this fun, trendy neighborhood filled with unique shops, cafes, and plenty of street art for an exciting and affordable experience.
- Visit the Grand Ole Opry – While tours cost money, you can still visit and snap photos of this iconic country music venue for free when there isn’t an event.
- Printers Alley – Stroll through this historic district for a taste of Nashville’s past. It’s free to explore, and you’ll find affordable drinks (usually around $10) to enjoy while soaking in the atmosphere.
Getting Around for Less
Navigating Nashville is easier (and cheaper) than you might think! There’s multiple ways to get around town without breaking the bank.
- Walkable Hotspots: Downtown Nashville, Broadway, The Gulch, and 12 South are all pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore the city on foot.
- Public Transportation: The WeGo Public Transit system offers affordable bus routes throughout the city, including a free Music City Circuit in popular areas.
- Fetii: Hitting Music City with your whole crew? Fetii Rideshare makes it easy to get around town with up to 14 people! Schedule your rides in advance or order on-demand with code GOODNIGHT for 25% off!
- Scooter and Bike Rentals – Get around Nashville in style! Rent electric scooters or bikes for a fun and affordable way to explore the city. Popular rental options include Lime and Bird bikes and scooters, as well as stores like Jump Bikes and Music City eBikes.
Where to Stay: Affordable Accommodations with GoodNight Stay
Your accommodations can make or break a trip, and finding the perfect spot in Nashville doesn’t have to cost a fortune. GoodNight Stay offers budget-friendly vacation rentals in prime locations, giving you comfort, convenience, and style without the hefty price tag. Plus, don’t forget to check out our Specials Page—right now, you can take advantage of our Lucky in Love Sale to take 10% off select homes through 3/25 to make your stay even more affordable. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or planning a group trip, we’ve got the perfect home-away-from-home waiting for you!
Plan Your Budget-Friendly Escape!
Nashville proves you don’t need to spend big to have an unforgettable trip. From free honky tonks to affordable eats, there are endless ways to experience Music City without blowing your budget. Ready to book your getaway? View all Nashville vacation rentals here to get started!
