If you’re planning a trip to Nashville, then expenses for accommodations, transportation, and food can become expensive. Luckily, there are numerous free things to do in Nashville to help preserve your budget.
While visiting the metro area of Music City, you can check out a number of excellent public displays or galleries to appreciate art free of charge, enjoy taking in Nashville’s notable landmarks, and even listen to live performances all at no cost. As a local familiar with Nashville, here are a few top sightseeing activities you can partake in without spending money!
Notification: Travel Lemming is an independent reader-supported blog. You can support us by purchasing via the affiliate links on this page, which may earn us commissions. See our Advertising Policy for further explanation. Thank you!
29 Best Free Things to Do in Nashville
Tennessee State Museum
Take a stroll through Tennessee’s rich history at this highly comprehensive museum.
🍽️ Caribbean, Seafood | $$ | Website Link | 📍 Google Maps Link | 📞 +1 939 333 0031
The Tennessee State Museum has something to interest all visitors. The collection at this free museum incorporates artifacts spanning thousands of years.
Visitors will see a variety of items on display, ranging from a dugout canoe traditionally used by the First Peoples of Tennessee to the flight uniform worn by astronaut Barry “Butch” Wilmore. I make a point to visit the museum every few months to check out the new traveling exhibits that are showcased.
Blending a trip to the Tennessee State Museum with lunch at the Nashville Farmers Market and a meander around the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park next door makes for a perfect afternoon in Nashville on a budget.
Tennessee State Capitol
Tour one of the oldest continuously operating capitols in the United States and see the tombs of President and Mrs. James K. Polk.
📍 Map location | Phone: (615) 360-4326 | Website address | Hours: 9 am – 4 pm Monday – Friday
If you enjoy history, experiencing a tour of the Tennessee State Capitol can prove interesting. Built in 1859, it`s one of the few state capitols without a dome and among the oldest state capitol buildings still in active use.
Tourists are welcome to explore the inside of the capitol building on weekdays. Opt for one of the guided excursions offered each hour or embark on a self-guided tour through the establishment.
The Capitol is situated on a hilltop overlooking the city, so it`s a great vantage point for taking photos of the Nashville skyline. While on the grounds, you can also see the tombs of President and Mrs. James K. Polk.
Nashville Murals
Discover artwork created directly on neighborhood buildings across Nashville.
It is unsurprising that a city renowned as Music City would attract diverse creative talents. Nashville is full of exquisite murals and street art. One cannot explore the metropolis for very long without spotting several wall paintings.
The districts of South and East Nashville have the highest number of easily accessible murals that can be seen, but you’ll find artwork throughout the whole city. If spending more money is an option, this led tour will bring you to see several beautiful murals around the city to ensure you get your worthy photos shared on Instagram.
Radnor Lake
Hike one of the most well-liked local trails just a brief drive from Nashville.
Escape the bustling commotion by driving 8 miles south of downtown to one of the most visited walking routes near Nashville. The waterside path around Radnor Lake is a flat, uncomplicated hike. Hikers of all skill levels will enjoy observing the wildlife and trying to spot deer, turkeys, turtles, and other creatures.
Radnor Lake is very popular locally. Plan to arrive at first light or wait until others have completed hiking to find parking.
Cumberland River Pedestrian Bridge
Enjoy the views from this bridge connecting two of Nashville’s parks.
The Cumberland River Pedestrian Bridge is a new pedestrian thoroughfare that connects Shelby Bottoms Park and Two Rivers Park, two of the highly rated Nashville green spaces. The 745-foot-long passage spans the Cumberland River and provides a picturesque vantage point.
I`d suggest starting your hike at Two Rivers Park and walking toward Shelby Bottoms unless you plan on dedicating your whole morning or afternoon to hiking. Though you can go in the opposite direction, the primary trail at Shelby Bottoms is much more extensive.
First Saturday Art Crawl
Experience an evening exploring the art galleries located downtown Nashville.
🌐 Website link | Hours: 5 pm – 8 pm
If you’re in Nashville on the first Saturday of the month, then check out First Saturday Art Crawl in downtown Nashville.
Every month, several exhibitions open their doors to the public to display special artworks. Art lovers can enjoy the local and international pieces on show. Many of the art galleries offer free drinks along with snacks, so check the website to see which art galleries are participating each month.
Explore the Neighborhoods
Downtown is entertaining, but you should also see the spots where the locals hang out.
One aspect of the city I particularly enjoy is that each area of Nashville has its own unique atmosphere and character. Most visitors tend to focus on downtown primarily, but there’s more to Nashville than Broadway and cover bands performing country music (even though both can be entertaining).
You’ll find hidden gems in neighborhoods like East Nashville, 12 South, Wedgewood-Houston, the Nations, and Sylvan Park. Try local Nashville coffee shops mentioned in this article, browse vintage stores, or just spend the afternoon people-watching in a park.
Listen to Live Music
Discover Nashville’s talented artists through venues all over the city.
Nashville contains many skilled musicians. You`ll come across free live music at venues across the city on a daily basis. Honky tonks on Broadway typically don`t require cover charges, and live music is always playing.
Bars in the Gulch, on Printer`s Alley, in SoBro, and at other areas throughout the city also have live music. You`ll need to have some money for drinks or to drop into a tip jar, but it`s still a great way to listen to free live music.
The city also hosts musical events and festivals throughout the year featuring free performances. Be sure to check what`s happening during your visit.
Nashville Public Library
Visit one of the most beautiful libraries in the nation.
Youngsters love the Santa Monica Pier.Griffith Observatory is also good for youngsters. It’s a budget-friendly choice that you can pair with a picnic in front of the Hollywood Sign at Lake Hollywood.
Spending time at the Nashville Public Library downtown is one of the finest free activities in Nashville. The main library branch features magnificent architecture and houses multiple special collections. Be sure to visit the Civil Rights Room and the Votes for Women Room. The library also has a lovely courtyard with a patio and fountain.
The library is always worth a visit, and it’s one of the best activities to do in Nashville with children. In addition to books, the children’s section has play areas and there are lots of great children’s events on the schedule.
Music City Walk of Fame
Search out your favorite artist at the Music City Walk of Fame Park.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (800) 657-6910 | Website
Located opposite the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Music City Walk of Fame honors the biggest musical talents from the city. As you walk through the park, you’ll find stars featuring entertainers from all genres, not just country music. Elvis Presley, Jimi Hendrix, and Dolly Parton are a few of the names included here.
Though small in size, music fans will enjoy scouring the park for their favorite artists. Expect to spend roughly 15-30 minutes exploring here.
Nashville Flea Market
Search for unique finds on the final weekend of every month.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (615) 862-5016 | Website
On the fourth weekend of the month (except in December), the Nashville Flea Market takes place at the fairgrounds. From Friday through Saturday, over 2000 vendors set up shop. With so many various vendors, there’s something to catch everyone’s eye.
The Nashville Flea Market is considered one of the best flea markets in the country. Even though visiting the flea market is free, there is a possibility that you’ll end up finding a few treasures that you just have to have.
Also, be aware that even though the Flea Market is free the fairground charges a $10 cash-only charge for parking.
Gaylord Opryland Resort
Tour the resort`s impressive atrium and admire the beautiful landscaping.
📍 Map location | Website address
Staying at the Opryland Resort is an unforgettable experience, but you don’t have to be a guest at the hotel to appreciate its indoor gardens. The gardens are particularly lovely around the holidays, but they’re worth visiting any time of the year.
If you wish to indulge in a hotel in Nashville, staying at the Opryland Resort is a superb selection. The resort is right next to the Grand Ole Opry and is surrounded by plenty of other intriguing attractions in Music Valley.
Fort Negley
Discover the largest inland stone fortification constructed during the Civil War era.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (615) 862-8470 | Website
Fort Negley is a stone structure built by Union troops in 1862 after they captured Nashville during the Civil War. Today, visitors can learn about the site`s history through interactive and digital exhibits. There are also panels allowing self-guided walking tours.
Beyond learning about Nashville`s role in the Civil War, visitors can also enjoy exploring Fort Negley on foot. Dogs on leashes are allowed and pathways are paved. During the day, the site provides great city views.
Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame
Discover Tennessee`s most renowned athletes at this museum located in Bridgestone Arena.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (615) 242-4750 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Tuesday – Saturday
Sports enthusiasts will want to explore the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame located in Bridgestone Arena. While this Nashville museum is small, it provides interesting insights into Tennessee`s coaches, athletes, and other sports personalities.
College basketball fans will especially appreciate getting to see the newest exhibit. It honors Pat Summit, the most successful women’s college basketball coach.
Tennessee Agricultural Museum
Learn about daily life on farms for 19th and 20th century farm families.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (615) 837-5197 | Website | Hours of operation: 9 am – 4 pm Monday – Friday
South of Nashville lies the Tennessee Agricultural Museum where visitors gain knowledge about the historical development of farming in the Volunteer State.
Inside the self-guided museum, visitors will find agricultural tools and other items used by farming families from long ago. Most of the artifacts date back to the 19th and 20th centuries. There is an area near the entrance displaying farm-related toys and books for children to enjoy.
Visitors can also explore the outside areas surrounding the museum. There are historic cabins on location, and during the growing season, you can take a look at the heirloom garden. When the weather is nice, you can walk the trail behind the cabins.
Frist Art Museum Architecture Tour
Take a guided tour of this stunning Art Deco building offered once weekly.
Location PinGoogle Maps Page | Price Scale: ($-$$)
Housed in an Art Deco building from the 1930s that was once the city’s main post office, the Frist Art Museum today has the building converted into an art museum housing award-winning traveling exhibits. Once a week, the museum offers a free architecture tour where guests can learn more about how the historic building was designed.
The museum is always free for visitors under the age of 18, and tickets for adults are reasonably priced as well.
Vanderbilt Fine Arts Gallery
Enjoy the carefully curated art exhibits.
📍 Location map | Contact: (615) 322-9999 | Website homepage | Hours of operation: 11 am – 4 pm Tuesday – Friday, Closed Saturdays-Mondays
The Vanderbilt Fine Arts Gallery is situated in the Jean and Alexander Heard Libraries on Vanderbilt’s grounds. Over 8000 works of art make up the gallery’s collection, but only a small portion of the collection is exhibited at a time.
The gallery exhibits three to four small but thoughtfully curated shows each year appealing to art enthusiasts. Anyone who appreciates art will find this overlooked gem in Nashville rewarding.
Zeitgeist Gallery
Experience one of Nashville’s premier art galleries.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (615) 256-4805 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 5 pm Wednesday – Saturday
Located in the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood, Zeitgeist Gallery is one of the city’s premier contemporary art exhibitions. Visiting allows one to experience the local and regional art scene through their world-class showings. Check their website to see what’s on display during your visit.”
Fannie Mae Dees Park
Visit Nashville’s “Dragon Park” which additionally highlights a playground and splash pad.
A visit to Fannie Mae Dees Park is one of the best complimentary activities for families in Nashville. This enjoyable attraction is commonly called the “Dragon Park” thanks to the large mosaic dragon located within the park.
If you`re traveling with children, this location would be ideal to see. Besides the large dragon sculpture, there is a playground and water play area at the park. Note that the sprinklers are only switched on during the summer months.
Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
Listen to the Carillon Bells and take a stroll at this downtown State Park.
📍 Google Maps | Website
Located to the north of the Capitol building in downtown Nashville, the Bicentennial Capitol Mall is an 11-acre urban park. Among the most interesting attractions in the park are the Carillon bells. They chime every 15 minutes and perform an entire song related to Tennessee at the top of each hour.
The park is managed by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation and regularly hosts free public events. You can freely explore on your own, or depending on when you visit, you may join one of the complimentary tours led by a ranger.
Centennial Park
Have a picnic and stroll around the lake at a local park – don’t neglect the Taylor Swift bench.
.
” The text provides links to tools that enable navigation guidance and information on a particular location
The grounds of Centennial Park were used for Tennessee’s centennial exposition in 1897. Following the exposition`s end, the grounds and the full-scale replica of the Parthenon built for the exposition were preserved for the public. Today, Centennial Park is one of the most popular Nashville parks.
Locals and visitors enjoy the one-mile walking path around Lake Watagua. The park is the perfect place for a picnic or to sit with a book on a sunny day. No travel schedule for Nashville is complete without a trip to Centennial Park.
Centennial Park is a favorite of Taylor Swift, and there’s even a bench dedicated to her within the park.
Shelby Bottoms Nature Center & Park
Hike, bike, or roller skate along the Cumberland River.
📍 Site Map | Additional Information
If interested in exploring the outdoors within a city, consider Shelby Bottoms located in East Nashville. It includes a Nature Center, Park, and Greenway providing opportunities to appreciate nature close to urban surroundings.
The Shelby Bottoms Greenway has over 5 miles of paved pathways easily accessible for hiking, biking, running, and roller skating. There are also 5 miles of primitive pathways to explore. Consult the map and be sure to visit the Hidden Pond. If you’re there at the opportune time, you may be able to spot beavers living there.
Big Band Dance Series
Spend the evening dancing to free music performed live by a swing band.
For an evening of dancing, consider the Big Band Dance series held Saturday nights in Centennial Park`s event shelter during summer months. Each dance commences with a complimentary 30-minute lesson of dances like waltz or foxtrot. Then, the live orchestra plays several hours under starlight for dancing pleasure.
Grab a meal from a food truck and savor a romantic evening in Nashville or bring the whole clan for a trip to remember.
Live on the Green
Attend a free musical festival held outdoors at the core of downtown.
🌐 Website
A local radio station named Lightning 100 hosts Live on the Green annually. This free outdoor musical festival takes place at Public Square Park in downtown Nashville.
Attendees have the opportunity to enjoy free live music performed by up-and-coming local artists as well as well-known artists from various locations across the country. The event provides a lot of enjoyment and effectively highlights why Nashville has the reputation as Music City.
Live on the Green was canceled in 2023 but hopefully will return in 2024.
Musicians Corner
Listen to free music on weekends in the summer and fall seasons at Centennial Park.
🌐 Website
Musicians Corner is a series of free concerts that takes place in Nashville’s Centennial Park. The dates usually fall on Fridays and Saturdays in early summer and in the fall, and line-ups include everyone from local emerging artists to legendary musicians.
You can bring your own refreshments, but food vendors are also available on site. Musicians Corner is one of the best ways to enjoy free live music in Nashville.
WeHo Art Crawl
Explore numerous art galleries in Wedgewood-Houston.
🌐 Website
On the first Saturday of each month, art galleries in the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood participate in the WeHo Art Crawl. Being within walking distance, the galleries have significantly contributed to developing Nashville’s art scene. Art enthusiasts are sure to enjoy this event.
Arrington Vineyards
Listen to live jazz and bluegrass while sipping wine.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (615) 395-0102 | Website
Visiting Arrington Vineyards is one of my favorite day trips from Nashville at any time of the year.
During the warmer months, you can attend Music in the Vines on weekend afternoons. The vineyard hosts jazz and bluegrass groups who perform free live music. Visitors are able to pack a picnic or buy food from food trucks and other on-site vendors.
Alcohol brought from external sources is barred from entry. However, one may always purchase a glass of rosé wine to savor during the outing.
Nashville Shakespeare Festival
Watch compelling performances of Shakespeare’s plays.
For over three decades, the Nashville Shakespeare Festival has been providing free performances of Shakespeare`s plays to the city`s residents and visitors.
The events occur during the end of summer. Check the website if any performances will take place during your visit. Regardless of how frequently you attend theater, the festival is intended to engage a wide range of audiences.
Southern Festival of Books
Meet your favorite writers and hundreds others at this complimentary event.
🌐 Website
Literature devotees will enjoy the Southern Festival of Books. The yearly festival typically occurs in autumn. Hundreds of authors and others in the literary world are present for discussion forums, book signings, and other events. No matter what subject you’re interested in, there’s likely an author there discussing it.
Typically you`d need to purchase tickets for similar talks. This free event is one of Nashville`s best annual offerings.
FAQs about Free Stuff to Do in Nashville
What is the number one thing to do in Nashville?
Considering top things to experience in Nashville, a must is touring the Ryman Auditorium. It`s amongst the most prestigious music venues in America.
What museums are free in Nashville?
The Tennessee State Museum, the Tennessee Agricultural Museum, and the Tennessee Capitol Building are all accessible to the public without cost. The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame regularly has free entry sponsored by different companies and groups.
What should I do with one day in Nashville?
If your time in Nashville is limited to a single day, be certain to visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Grand Ole Opry. These two attractions significantly characterize what makes Nashville, Tenneessee unique.
What is there to do in Nashville that’s not a bar?
If you don’t want to go to a bar in Nashville, you have plenty of options. Nashville has great music venues, beautiful parks, and numerous quality dining establishments. You can also visit the city’s museums like the Tennessee State Museum or spend time shopping at vintage stores and record stores.
***
Once you know the particular things you want to accomplish in San Fransico, organizing will be a basic task from there. Let’s take a glimpse at the ideal time to visit San Francisco.
Have fun!
