Start your day with a cup of joe from a locally owned and operated coffee shop like Barista Parlor, Frothy Monkey, Bongo Java, or Humphreys Street, where plenty of locals gather to share the latest on Nashville happenings. Consider grabbing breakfast at Fido, Pink Hermit at The Hermitage Hotel, or Butter Milk Ranch —all lowkey spots perfect for an easy morning meal, a quick treat to go, or a casual conversation with a local waiter that can point you in the right direction for the day.
As the master of your own schedule, visit the city’s many museums, art galleries, and attractions at your own pace, or hop on a comprehensive, guided ride through Nashville on a Gray Line Tennessee tour or Old Town Trolley tour. Tours are also offered on two wheels with Green Fleet Bicycle Tours and Nashville B-cycle. Exploring on your own is a great way to meet like-minded travelers and potentially new friends.
Get out of your comfort zone and experience what the locals do. Nashville’s diverse neighborhoods are not only friendly but have unique offerings – like the creative hub of Wedgewood-Houston or an abundance of free live music Downtown. Spend as much time as you need while discovering the locally owned boutiques in the walkable 12South, Hillsboro Village, and The Gulch neighborhoods. East Nashville’s Five Points and Fatherland District feature local stores with unique goods, vintage clothing, and even funky antiques. Without the pressure of tagalongs, you can shop until drop at the many shopping districts of Music City.
Enjoy the perks of single-ticket availability at one of Nashville’s storied live performance venues. Experience a show in iconic halls like Ryman Auditorium and The Opry House, songwriters’ rounds at The Bluebird Cafe and The Listening Room Cafe, featured theatrical productions at Tennessee Performing Arts Center, hilarious comedians at Zanies Comedy Club Nashville, or alternative concerts at joints like Exit/In and Basement East. Even for popular sold-out shows, a last-minute trip to the ticket window could get you the best seat in the house.
Taste all the culinary scene has to offer from a collection of world-class chef-driven restaurants such as Trevor Moran’s Locust, Audrey and June by Sean Brock, and Henrietta Red by Julia Sullivan, or indulge in the fiery hot chicken that Nashville is known for at Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack and Hattie B’s Hot Chicken. Try one of Nashville’s iconic meat & three spots like Arnold’s Country Kitchen and Elliston Place Soda Shop—but don't leave without trying BBQ offerings at Martin’s BBQ Joint, Edley’s Bar-B-Que, or Peg Leg Porker. Grabbing a single seat at the bar at one of Nashville’s hotspots, whether fine-dining or casual, will be sure to enrich your experience and please your palate.
With the freedom to go where you want, when you want, treat yourself to a relaxing day at one of Nashville’s premier spas. Check out Rose at The Joseph, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nashville, Spa by JW Marriott, R+R Wellness at Grand Hyatt, Woodhouse Day Spa at Kimpton Aertson, Escape Day Spa & Salon in Belle Meade or The Lotus Room in Hillsboro Village. Finding balance and wellness while traveling alone will help you feel better than when you left home.