Visiting Nashville, Tennessee, on your way to the Smoky Mountains? You don’t have to break the bank to experience the best of Music City! From live music and historic sites to scenic parks and local art, there are plenty of free things to do in Nashville that will make your trip unforgettable.
Whether you’re a country music fan, a history buff, or just looking for fun, budget-friendly activities, Nashville offers something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore 25 free things to do in Nashville, so you can enjoy an exciting adventure without spending a dime.
Let’s dive into the best free attractions in Nashville and make the most of your Smoky Mountains vacation! 🎸🎶🌄
1. Explore Nashville’s Music Scene for Free
1. Broadway’s Honky Tonks
- What is it? Nashville’s most famous street, lined with bars playing live country music all day.
- Why Go? No cover charge—just walk in, enjoy the music, and tip the band if you like!
2. Music City Walk of Fame
- What is it? A sidewalk tribute to country music legends.
- Why Go? Take pictures with stars honoring Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, and Elvis Presley.
3. Live Music at The Stage & Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge
- What is it? Famous music venues where stars like Willie Nelson once played.
- Why Go? Enjoy free live music from up-and-coming artists.
2. Discover Nashville’s Historic Landmarks
4. Tennessee State Capitol & Museum
- What is it? One of the oldest operating state capitols in the U.S.
- Why Go? Free guided tours and exhibits on Tennessee’s history.
5. Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
- What is it? A historic park filled with monuments and a 200-foot granite map of Tennessee.
- Why Go? A great spot for learning history and taking photos.
6. Fort Negley Park
- What is it? The ruins of a Civil War fort.
- Why Go? Learn about Nashville’s role in the war with self-guided walking tours.
3. Visit Nashville’s Best Parks & Outdoor Spaces
7. Centennial Park & The Parthenon
- What is it? A 132-acre park featuring a full-scale replica of the Greek Parthenon.
- Why Go? Walk the scenic trails and take iconic photos of the Parthenon.
8. Shelby Bottoms Greenway & Nature Park
- What is it? A walking and biking trail along the Cumberland River.
- Why Go? Perfect for a morning run, picnic, or birdwatching.
9. Radnor Lake State Park
- What is it? A wildlife refuge with serene hiking trails.
- Why Go? Free access to breathtaking lake views and possible wildlife sightings.
4. Explore Nashville’s Art & Culture Scene
10. First Saturday Art Crawl
- What is it? On the first Saturday of each month, galleries open their doors for free art shows.
- Why Go? Enjoy free wine and appetizers while browsing unique artwork.
11. 21c Museum Hotel
- What is it? A free, contemporary art museum inside a hotel.
- Why Go? Open 24/7, featuring interactive and rotating exhibits.
12. Frist Art Museum (Free on Select Days)
- What is it? A famous art museum housed in a historic post office.
- Why Go? Free admission for kids under 18 and college students on Thursdays.
5. Experience Nashville’s Unique Attractions
13. The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge
- What is it? A stunning pedestrian bridge over the Cumberland River.
- Why Go? The best free panoramic view of Nashville’s skyline.
14. Nashville Farmers’ Market
- What is it? A large, indoor/outdoor market with local vendors and live music.
- Why Go? Stroll around, try free samples, and soak in the local culture.
15. The Gulch Murals & Street Art
- What is it? A neighborhood filled with iconic murals like “What Lifts You” wings.
- Why Go? Perfect for Instagram-worthy photos!
6. Take a Self-Guided Food Tour (Without Spending Money!)
16. Goo Goo Chocolate Co.
- What is it? A Nashville-based candy shop offering free samples.
- Why Go? Try the famous Goo Goo Cluster chocolate.
17. The Hermitage Hotel’s Famous Restroom
- What is it? A 1920s Art Deco-style men’s restroom, open to visitors.
- Why Go? Recognized as one of the most beautiful restrooms in America!
18. The Yazoo Brewery Tour (Free on Select Days)
- What is it? A craft brewery offering free sample tastings.
- Why Go? Get a taste of Nashville’s local beer scene.
7. Visit Free Museums & Educational Sites
19. Tennessee Agricultural Museum
- What is it? A museum with historic farm equipment and rural exhibits.
- Why Go? Great for kids and history lovers.
20. Fort Nashborough
- What is it? A replica of the original Nashville settlement.
- Why Go? Step back in time to the 1700s.
21. Belmont Mansion Gardens
- What is it? The historic gardens outside Belmont Mansion.
- Why Go? Walk through beautifully landscaped grounds for free.
8. Enjoy Nashville’s Free Festivals & Events
22. Musicians Corner at Centennial Park (Spring & Fall)
- What is it? A free concert series featuring live music.
- Why Go? Great for families and music lovers.
23. CMA Fest Free Outdoor Stages (June Only)
- What is it? The biggest country music festival, featuring free outdoor concerts.
- Why Go? Catch big-name country artists—for free!
24. Nashville Shakespeare Festival (Summer Only)
- What is it? Free Shakespeare performances in the park.
- Why Go? Enjoy a theater experience under the stars.
25. Cheekwood’s Free Community Days (Select Days)
- What is it? A beautiful botanical garden and art museum.
- Why Go? Visit on free admission days for stunning gardens and art.
FAQS
1. What is the best free thing to do in Nashville?
Broadway’s Honky Tonks—free live music in the heart of downtown.
2. Is the Parthenon in Nashville free?
Yes, you can explore the outside for free, but entering the museum requires a small fee.
3. What is the best free viewpoint in Nashville?
The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge offers the best skyline views.
4. Is parking free in downtown Nashville?
Some parks and side streets offer free parking, but most downtown spots charge fees.
5. What free activities are great for families?
Centennial Park, Shelby Bottoms Greenway, and Radnor Lake are great for kids.
6. Where can I see free live music in Nashville?
Broadway’s Honky Tonks, Musicians Corner, and CMA Fest outdoor stages.
7. Are there free museums in Nashville?
Yes! The Tennessee State Museum and 21c Museum Hotel are completely free.
8. Can I visit the Grand Ole Opry for free?
You can walk around outside for photos, but inside tours require a ticket.