4-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Nashville, Tennessee

Day 1: Explore Downtown

Nashville, USA on September 1, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with a delicious stack of pancakes at this Nashville staple, known for its long lines and fluffy, flavorful pancakes.
Head to Pancake Pantry located in Hillsboro Village, just a short bus ride from downtown.
USD15, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame

Dive into Nashville's rich musical history at this iconic venue, where you'll find memorabilia and exhibits dedicated to country music legends.
Walk to the Country Music Hall of Fame, it's about a 20-minute walk from the breakfast spot.
USD25, 2 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through Music Row

Take a leisurely walk through Music Row, home to many record labels and music production companies.
A short walk from the Hall of Fame, take your time to soak in the music culture.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Pharmacy Burger Parlor

Enjoy a burger and delicious homemade sodas at this popular local joint known for its fresh ingredients.
Take the bus to East Nashville, approximately 15 minutes away.
USD12, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Centennial Park

Relax in Centennial Park and check out the full-scale replica of the Parthenon—perfect for some great pictures.
Take the bus back towards downtown and hop off at Centennial Park.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Frist Art Museum

Enjoy the diverse art exhibitions showcasing local and international artists in a beautiful Art Deco building.
Board a bus back to downtown for a quick visit to the Frist.
USD15, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Hattie B's Hot Chicken

Experience Nashville's famous hot chicken at Hattie B's, where the spice level can be adjusted to your liking.
Take a 20-minute bus ride to the restaurant.
USD13, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Live Music on Broadway

End your first day soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of Broadway where you can find live music pouring out of every bar.
Walk to the bustling Broadway area, just 10 minutes away.
Free, As long as you like!
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Day 2: Culture and History

Nashville, USA on September 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Loveless Cafe

Start your day with a classic Southern breakfast at Loveless Cafe, famous for its biscuits and preserves.
Take a bus or rideshare to Loveless Cafe, located about 20 minutes from downtown.
USD15, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit the Ryman Auditorium

Known as the 'Mother Church of Country Music,' the Ryman offers fascinating tours and beautiful acoustic music.
Return to downtown and walk to the Ryman Auditorium, about a 15-minute walk.
USD20, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Walk around the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

This park offers sweeping views of the State Capitol and features beautiful monuments and fountains.
Take a short walk to Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Grilled Cheeserie

Savor a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich paired with a side of tomato soup at this beloved food truck.
Head back towards downtown, it's about a 10-minute bus ride.
USD10, 1 hour

1:00PM

Tour the Tennessee State Museum

Learn about the history and culture of Tennessee through fascinating exhibits and artifacts.
You can walk to the Tennessee State Museum from lunch, it's about a 15-minute walk.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Johnny Cash Museum

Pay homage to the legendary Johnny Cash at this museum dedicated to his life and music.
It's a short walk from the Tennessee State Museum to the Johnny Cash Museum.
USD20, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Coffee Break at Five Points Pizza

Enjoy a slice of local Nashville pizza while taking a break from your sightseeing.
Take the bus to East Nashville where Five Points Pizza is located.
USD8, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Prince's Hot Chicken

End your day with Nashville's spicy fried chicken, perfect for those looking to try something unforgettable.
Another short bus ride to Prince's Hot Chicken.
USD12, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Experience a Free Live Show

Check local listings for free live music shows, many bars have no cover charge, allowing you to enjoy Nashville's scene on a budget.
Head back to the busy Broadway area, about 20 minutes by bus.
Free, As long as you like!
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Day 3: Nature and Views

Nashville, USA on September 3, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Two Twenty Three

Kick off your day with a homestyle breakfast at this cozy cafe famous for its friendly service and hearty options.
Take a bus to the cafe, conveniently located in East Nashville.
USD12, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Explore Radnor Lake State Park

Enjoy the natural beauty of Radnor Lake, take a peaceful hike surrounded by wildlife in this serene escape.
Bus to Radnor Lake State Park, it's about a 25-minute trip.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Edley's Bar-B-Que

Taste some authentic BBQ sandwiches and sides, a great way to refuel after your hike.
Head back downtown via bus to Edley's Bar-B-Que.
USD15, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

Check out the beautiful connection between art and nature at this museum and botanical garden.
Take a bus to Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, approx 20 minutes.
USD20, 2 hours

3:30PM

Coffee and Relaxation

Grab a coffee from a local café, find a cozy spot and sit back to relax after a busy afternoon.
Visit a local café nearby before heading to dinner.
USD5, 1 hour

4:30PM

Dinner at Woodstock

Enjoy a casual dinner with tasty Mediterranean influences at Woodstock, known for its affordable vegetarian options.
Catch a bus back downtown for dinner.
USD12, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Visit the Nashville Farmers' Market

Explore the local produce and goods at the Farmers' Market, a great spot to find authentic local products.
A short bus ride or a 15-minute walk from the dinner spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Evening at The Bluebird Cafe

End your day with an intimate evening of songwriters performing their stories at the famous Bluebird Cafe.
Take a bus to The Bluebird Cafe but remember to arrive early for seating.
Approx USD10 Cover, As long as you'd like!
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Day 4: Last Looks

Nashville, USA on September 4, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Biscuit Love

Start your final day with a Southern breakfast featuring fresh biscuits and breakfast sandwiches.
Head to Biscuit Love which is downtown Nashville.
USD15, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Belle Meade Historic Site

Explore the Southern elegance of this plantation with its gorgeous grounds and fascinating exhibits.
Access using public transport, it's about 30 minutes away.
USD20, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at The Pie Wagon

Grab a slice of fresh pie for a light lunch at this local favorite bakery.
Return to downtown Nashville by bus for lunch.
USD7, 1 hour

12:30PM

Final Stroll of The Parthenon

Visit the magnificent Parthenon in Centennial Park one last time to soak in the scenery.
Head back to Centennial Park via bus.
Free, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Tennessee State Capitol

Wrap up your Nashville adventure with a tour of the Capitol and its storied history.
Walk over to the nearby Tennessee State Capitol from Centennial Park.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Snack at Sweet Crepes

Have a sweet end to your trip with delightful crepes filled with your favorite ingredients.
Take a bus back to the downtown area for a sweet treat.
USD7, 1 hour

4:00PM

Final Evening Concert

Enjoy a final free live concert performance at one of the local venues or street performers before you leave.
Walk around downtown to discover live music sites.
Free, As long as you like!
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