Welcome to Nashville: Your Guide to Living in Nashville, TN
Congratulations on moving to Nashville, Tennessee! It’s no surprise people are flocking to the "Music City." For starters, it's pretty affordable compared to other big metropolises, and the job market is on the rise. Plus, Nashville’s residents are some of the friendliest! And let's not forget about the weather, it's pretty much the perfect mix of hot summers and mild winters.
Moving to a new city is exciting, but it can come with its challenges. To help you and other movers like you get the most out of your new home, we put together this guide to living in Nashville, TN that covers all the basics.
About Nashville, TN
Nashville’s vast metro area includes a population of just under 1.3 million people. With its diverse population, there is a neighborhood perfect for everyone. If you're looking for a more urban vibe, check out East Nashville or 12South. Prefer a more laid-back atmosphere? Look into Sylvan Park or Green Hills. For a more suburban feel, Brentwood, Thompson’s Station, and Spring Hill offer plenty of family homes conveniently located near Nashville.
Living in Nashville
Depending on where you moved from, Nashville’s hot and humid summers might take some getting used to. Most days during the summer are muggy with an average high of 90 degrees. However, you also get to enjoy the benefits of a mild winter, with highs hovering around the low 50s and only a couple inches of snowfall each year.
How to Get Around
Most Nashville commuters own their own vehicles to make getting around easier. Just like any big city, if you’re planning on driving during rush hour be sure to prepare for traffic. Don’t own a car? If your new home is close to the city, use the affordable bus service: WeGo Public Transit. These bright purple busses can’t be missed, and function similarly to bus systems in any major city. Bike and scooter rentals have also become popular for short trips within city limits.
Where to Eat
Now, for the best part – Nashville is known for amazing southern food, like Nashville hot chicken, but there are plenty of restaurants for every appetitepalate. If you’re looking to check the famous hot chicken off your foodie bucket list first, try Prince's Hot Chicken Shack or Hattie B's Hot Chicken. For other southern comforts, give Peg Leg Porker BBQ a visit.
If you’ve got a date to impress or are simply wanting an upscale dining experience, visit The Southern Steak & Oyster. This trendy downtown restaurant serves up a variety of southern-inspired dishes, including steaks, seafood, and traditional sides like collard greens and mac and cheese. The restaurant also has a large selection of bourbons and other spirits.
If you’re not into southern food, Nashville is sure to have something to suit your tastebuds. Lyra offers a modern twist on middle eastern cuisine, while Tex-Mex and pizza are easy to find as well.
Things to Do in and Around Nashville
One of the most exciting things about moving to a new city is playing tourist and checking out all it has to offer. Nashville is no exception, and you certainly won’t be bored.
Places to Visit
There’s a reason Nashville is called the “Music City.”. There are plenty of music venues to check out and none are more famous than the Grand Ole Opry. You can catch a show here, of course, or you can also embark on a backstage tour. Another iconic venue is the Ryman Auditorium, built in 1892. If you’re into museums, you’re in luck! For a bit of music history, you can visit the Country Music Hall of Fame which houses an impressive collection of 466 guitars. When you’re finished there, you can “Walk the Line” just down the street to the Johnny Cash Museum to see both personal and musical memorabilia – including Cash’s Air Force uniform.
Outdoor Recreation
The Nashville area is home to beautiful state and city parks. One of the must-sees is 132- acre Centennial Park, located in the West End neighborhood. You can simply take in the views, attend one of the many events held at the park, or visit the Parthenon. No passport, no problem! Built for the 1897 World’s Fair, this full- scale replica makes it possible to see the Parthenon without venturing to Greece. If you’re in the mood for more exploring, inside is an art museum and a 42-foot statue of Athena (the largest indoor statue in the Western Hemisphere).
For an escape from the city, take a daytrip over to Cummins Falls State Park. Head about an hour and a half west on the I-40 to take in gorgeous views of Cummins Falls. Here you can hike one of the many trails (permit is required to hike to the base of the waterfall), or even try your hand at catching your own dinner in the stream.
Festivals and Events in Nashville
There is no shortage of festivals and events for you to enjoy as a (new) resident of Nashville.
Attracting countless country music fans each June, the CMA Fest is the perfect opportunity to see the hottest names in country music perform live.
More of a foodie? Check out the Music City Hot Chicken Festival where you can sample Nashville's iconic hot chicken from various vendors.
Looking for something truly unique? Look no further than the Tomato Art Fest. Taking place each summer, the Tomato Art Fest plays host to a tomato art show, a home decorating contest, and even a Bloody Mary garden party.
Nightlife
For good music, great food, and an amazing night on the town, check out Nashville’s Honky Tonk Highway. You’ll find live music every night of the year from up-and-coming musicians, local bands, and occasionally soon-to-be legends. Did you know Dierks Bentley began his career playing on Broadway? Make sure you bring cash! These artists perform for tips.
This city guide is just the tip of the iceberg (or should we say cowboy boot?). With so many nooks and crannies to explore, sights to see and flavors to take in, you’ll be sure to find even more incredible adventures in your new home of Nashville, Tennessee.