Ah, Nashville, aka music city. The home of country music, Nashville Hot Chicken, and party trolleys (yes, really). Nashville offers super friendly locals with a strong southern mentality. 

Each time I visit, I’m reminded that things move slower here. Expect to have conversations with every person in a customer service role for at least five minutes (cashiers, grocery workers, etc.). 

Here are our top 6 tips and things to know before visiting Nashville, (plus size friendly edition)!

Things to Know Before Visiting Nashville

1. The locals are really friendly.

Nashville is a fantastic place to visit solo (or with friends). On my last particular trip, I headed here by myself. Making the drive, I thought it might be a mistake because I didn’t know anyone here. 

The locals are incredibly friendly and will make you feel at home no matter which store, restaurant, or otherwise, you visit.

As noted above, expect to have long conversations with almost everyone you come in contact with here. It might seem odd at first if you’re from the northern part of the US, but after a while, you start to expect the conversations. 

Not only that, but you’ll also get fantastic restaurant and activity recommendations from these interactions.

2. Time moves slower in Nashville.

If you’re taking a trip to Nashville from a bustling city, you’re in for a surprise. While certain areas are more fast-paced, like downtown Nashville, you should still expect to find places where things move slowly.

I remember trying to run into the gas station for a soda and some gum, thinking I’d be in and out. It took me a solid ten minutes to collect the soda, gum, and pay for gas as I was chatting with the cashier. 

Enjoy the break from city life and embrace the slower pace here. You’ll get used to it after a few days.

3. There’s a ton of traffic.

If you’re driving into downtown Nashville, especially on the weekend, head out early. Traffic gets backed up on the expressway, and a 20-minute drive can turn into an hour and a half very quickly.

Side note – don’t head to the city while hungry. I learned this pretty quickly while visiting Nashville.

4. Take a lot of pictures.

Nashville is known for its street art. I’m sure you’ve seen the giant wings on the side of the building as a backdrop for many Instagram pictures. 

Walking around the downtown area, you’ll find a lot of hidden spots like this.

If possible, head out early so you can take as many pictures as you want. There was a line down the street by the time I got to the wings mural in the afternoon.

5. Head to the Grand Ole Opry

The Grand Ole Opry is a must-see while staying in Nashville. Shows are scheduled throughout the year with big-name artists.

You can also learn about the history of this famous music spot by taking a tour. This country music stage has been around since 1925 and continues to thrive. 

It’s also a great spot to see new talent and rising country, singers.

6. Check out the nightlife.

Nashville, Tennessee, is one of those great cities where bars and restaurants are open late at night. Most of them offer live music, and you can catch outstanding performers while enjoying fun drinks.

For those who love staying out late into the night, this is the place for you. Plus, the downtown area is not too large so that most places can be walked to.

Enjoy Nashville for the fun, loud, and musically inclined place that it is. Take as many pictures as possible and grab some tickets for concerts while visiting. Take advantage of our top 6 things you need to know before visiting Nashville and you’ll have a blast when you visit Nashville, no matter your size.