Nashville, Tennessee, is more than just country music and hot chicken—it’s a city filled with rich history, exciting culture, and Southern charm. If you only have one day to explore, a driving tour of Nashville is a great way to soak in the best sights and sounds of downtown. Here's how to spend the perfect day on wheels in Music City.
Morning: Start with a Coffee and a Scenic Drive
Begin your day with a fresh cup of coffee from a local café like Frothy Monkey or Crema. Then, hop in your car and take a scenic drive down Broadway, Nashville’s most iconic street. Roll down the windows and enjoy the live music streaming from open bar doors—even in the morning.
Take your time passing by the neon signs, honky-tonk bars, and gift shops. This is a great place to snap some photos without having to park. Your driving tour of Nashville starts with energy and color right here.
Late Morning: Visit the State Capitol and Bicentennial Mall
Head up the hill to the Tennessee State Capitol, one of the oldest working capitols in the country. Drive around the building and enjoy the views of the city skyline. Just below is Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, where you can stop briefly to admire the granite map of Tennessee and the striking fountains.
Even if you stay in the car, the architecture and layout of the park are beautiful and worth seeing. It’s a peaceful stop that offers a break from the busier parts of downtown.
Lunch: Taste of Nashville at Assembly Food Hall
Drive back toward Broadway and park near Fifth + Broadway to enjoy lunch at Assembly Food Hall. This is a large indoor space with a wide variety of food choices—from Nashville hot chicken to tacos and pizza. If you're not ready to stop long, many places offer to-go options so you can continue your tour.
Don’t forget to take a quick look at Ryman Auditorium, just next door. It’s the "Mother Church of Country Music" and a Nashville must-see.
Afternoon: Cruise by Music Row and the Gulch
After lunch, you can drive toward Music Row, where many recording studios and record label offices are located. You’ll feel the heart of the city’s music industry here. Pass by RCA Studio B, where legends like Elvis recorded music.
Next, head over to The Gulch, a trendy neighborhood with modern buildings, murals, and local shops. While driving, keep an eye out for the famous “Wings” mural for a photo op if you want to stop.
Evening: Sunset Drive Along the Riverfront
As the day winds down, take a drive by the Cumberland River. The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge offers a lovely view of the city skyline, especially at sunset. You can park briefly to watch the colors reflect off the water.
Wrap up your driving tour of Nashville by passing Nissan Stadium, home of the Tennessee Titans, and enjoying the calm beauty of the riverfront area.
Final Thoughts
Spending a day in downtown Nashville doesn’t have to mean walking everywhere or dealing with crowded tours. A self-guided driving tour of Nashville offers flexibility and comfort while still giving you access to the city’s top spots. Whether it’s your first time in town or your tenth, there’s always something new to discover—one turn at a time.
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