Wondering Where to stay in Nashville without a car? In this post, I will help you to find the best areas/neighborhoods to stay in Nashville without a car, and the best hotels for every budget.
Nashville is the capital and the largest city of Tennessee, situated in the north-central part of the state along the Cumberland River. It is known for its vibrant music scene, particularly in country music, earning it the nickname Music City.
The city is home to the Grand Ole Opry, one of the most famous music venues in the world. It is a weekly country music stage concert that has showcased legendary artists and continues to be a popular destination for music enthusiasts.
Nashville boasts several historic sites, including the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum, Ryman Auditorium, and The Hermitage, the former home of President Andrew Jackson.
Nashville is home to Vanderbilt University and Belmont University. It is also a prominent center for healthcare, with the Vanderbilt University Medical Center and other leading medical facilities.
The city has a diverse food scene, offering a mix of southern comfort food, barbecue, and trendy restaurants.
How to get to and get around Nashville?
Getting to Nashville is easy by air, car, and bus. The city is served by an International Airport, located 8 miles east of downtown. You can get to downtown by a rental car, airport shuttle, a public bus, a taxi, Uber, and Lyft.
If you’re coming from nearby cities by car, you can use interstates such as I-40, I-65, or I-24 to reach Nashville. Keep in mind that traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hours. Many hotels offer paid private parking and some offer free parking if you come with a car.
Additionally, several bus companies, such as Greyhound and Megabus, offer services to Nashville from various cities across the country.
The best way to get around Nashville is by car, but it is possible to get around Nashville without one by using the WeGo public bus system, rideshare, bikes, scooters, and walking.
You can use rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft, as well as bike-sharing services like BCycle to rent bikes for short trips. Electric scooters (e-scooters) can be rented through various scooter-sharing companies. Always follow safety guidelines when using e-scooters.
Certain areas of Nashville, such as Downtown, Broadway, The Gulch, and Germantown, can easily be done on foot. These areas have a variety of attractions, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues within walking distance.
Considerations: Nashville is known for its lively nightlife, so be sure to arrange for safe transportation if you plan on going out and consuming alcohol.
Where to stay in Nashville without a car?
The best areas to stay in Nashville without a car include Downtown Nashville, The Gulch, Midtown, West End, Germantown, and Music Valley. These areas offer plenty of things to do and see on foot, by public transport, or short Uber or Lyft, without the need of having a car.
Downtown is the most popular base for car-free travelers to book their accommodations. This area offers easy access to major attractions such as the Country Music Hall of Fame, Bridgestone Arena, Ryman Auditorium, and Broadway with its honky-tonk bars and live music venues.
The Gulch is upscale and trendy neighborhoods; Midtown and West End offers more budget-friendly hotels and youthful vibe while still easy access to Downtown; Germantown is set just a bit North from Downtown; and Music Valley offers easy access to Grand Ole Opry.
When booking your hotel, consider checking the distance to public transportation stops and popular attractions to ensure you have convenient access to the places you plan to visit.
During my trip to Nashville, I stayed at the 4-star Omni Nashville Hotel. It was located in a prime location, close to everything, so I was able to explore most things on foot and by Uber. I had a great breakfast buffet and a very comfortable room.
Below is a map of best areas in Nashville for car-free travelers.
6 Best areas to stay in Nashville without a car:
1. Downtown Nashville
Downtown Nashville is the best place to stay in Nashville without a car due to its central location and proximity to major tourist attractions and amenities. Staying here allows you to be located within walking distance to many iconic sights, restaurants, bars, and live music venues.
Downtown is a walkable area. Many of Nashville’s popular attractions, such as the Country Music Hall of Fame, Ryman Auditorium, Tennessee State Capitol, Johnny Cash Museum, and Bridgestone Arena, are in Downtown, making it convenient to visit them without a car.
Being at the heart of the city, Downtown Nashville is known for its numerous music venues and live performances, such as the famous Broadway honky-tonks, Printer’s Alley, and Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, which are all easily accessible on foot.
While Nashville’s public transportation system may not be as extensive as some larger cities, it does offer buses and ride-sharing services that can help you get around if needed.
Downtown is situated along the Cumberland River, providing beautiful riverfront views and offering opportunities for scenic walks and boat tours.
Best places to stay in Downtown Nashville without a car:
Luxury ($$$): Grand Hyatt Nashville, 5-star hotel, centrally located on the famous Broadway, within walking distance from Downtown Nashville, the popular Bridgestone Arena and Ryman Auditorium. It has an outdoor swimming pool, private parking, a fitness center and a terrace.
Mid-range ($$): Renaissance Nashville Hotel, 4-star hotel, located within a short walk from the Nashville Convention Center, Bridgestone Arena, Nissan Stadium, and the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum. It has private paid parking for those traveling with a car.
Budget ($): Homewood Suites by Hilton, 3-star historic hotel, located within easy walk from Nashville’s most popular attractions such as Country Music Hall of Fame, State Capitol and Ryman Auditorium. Also a short taxi ride away to Wildhorse Saloon, Parthenon, and Grand Ole Opry.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN DOWNTOWN NASHVILLE2. The Gulch
The Gulch is a popular and trendy neighborhood located just south of downtown Nashville. It is known for its vibrant atmosphere, modern architecture, luxury condos, boutique shops, art galleries, high-end restaurants, and lively nightlife.
The Gulch’s central location offers easy access to downtown Nashville, making it a convenient base for visitors without a car. It’s within walking distance of some of the popular attractions, including the Frist Art Museum, Music City Center, and the Broadway entertainment district.
Historically, The Gulch was an industrial area with railroad tracks, but it has undergone significant revitalization and redevelopment over the past couple of decades. Today, it is one of Nashville’s most desirable neighborhoods, attracting young professionals, creatives, and tourists alike.
Best places to stay in The Gulch without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): W Nashville, 5-star hotel, located within a short distance from attractions such as Johnny Cash Museum, Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum, Lane Motor Museum, Tootsies Orchid Lounge and Ryman Auditorium.
- Mid-range ($$): Thompson Nashville, part of Hyatt, 4-star hotel, located in The Gulch neighborhood, featuring a rooftop bar with views of downtown Nashville.
- Budget ($): Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott, 3-star hotel, located in Nashville city center, making it a great stay for those traveling without a car. For travel with a car, the hotel offers private parking with surcharge.
3. Midtown
Midtown is a vibrant and popular neighborhood located just west of downtown Nashville. It is known for its lively atmosphere, diverse entertainment options, and a mix of residential and commercial spaces
Midtown has great nightlife with numerous bars, restaurants, and live music venues. You can find a wide variety of cuisines and music styles, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.
Midtown is adjacent to the campus of Vanderbilt University, one of the top educational institutions in the country. The university adds a youthful energy to the area and influences the local culture.
Located nearby, Centennial Park is a beautiful urban park featuring a full-scale replica of the Parthenon, home to an art museum and a 42-foot tall statue of Athena. The park is also the venue of Nashville Farmers Market with vendors selling fresh local produce.
Just south of Midtown, Music Row is the heart of the city’s music industry. It is home to numerous recording studios, record labels, and music-related businesses.
The area offers a mix of boutique shops, specialty stores, and fashion outlets. The accommodations in Midtown are more affordable compared to downtown Nashville.
Midtown is walkable, easy to navigate, and is located within walking distance or a short drive from downtown Nashville, West End, Belmont University, and Hillsboro Village with its coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques, making it a convenient area in Nashville without a car.
Best places to stay in Nashville’s Midtown without a car:
- Mid-range ($$): Graduate Nashville, 4-star hotel, located within walking distance from Vanderbilt University, offering a rooftop bar, a restaurant, and a karaoke bar.
- Mid-range ($$): Hutton Hotel, 4-star eco-friendly hotel located in the heart of downtown Nashville’s Midtown neighborhood, within a short walk from Music Row. Short drive by car to Nashville Zoo and Nashville International Airport.
- Budget ($): Homewood Suites, 3-star hotel, located a short ride from the Nashville Farmers Market and the replica of the Greek Parthenon, built for the 1867 Centennial Exposition.
4. West End/ Vanderbilt
West End is also a vibrant neighborhood located next to Midtown, west of downtown Nashville. It is known for its mix of residential areas, commercial establishments, and cultural attractions.
One of the main attractions in West End is Centennial Park, which is a large urban park featuring a replica of the Parthenon. The park offers green spaces, walking trails, and various events throughout the year.
West End is home to Vanderbilt University, a prestigious private research institution. The university campus adds to the youthful and academic atmosphere of the neighborhood.
West End Nashville offers a wide array of dining and entertainment options, including restaurants, bars, cafes, and live music venues. The area is well-known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural scene.
West End is a pretty walkable and bikeable area, with easy access to the Hillsboro Village business district, downtown Nashville, Elliston Place, Midtown’s restaurant district, 12 South’s mix of shops and food, making it one of the best places in Nashville without a car.
Best places to stay in Nashville in West End without a car:
- Mid-range ($$): Kimpton Aertson Hotel, 4-star boutique hotel, located a short 9-minute walk away from Vanderbilt University, in the Music Row district.
- Mid-range ($$): Loews Vanderbilt Hotel, 4-star hotel, located in West End Avenue, within a short ride to the downtown and its attractions. It has live music with cocktails.
- Budget ($): Holiday Inn Nashville Vanderbilt, great 3-star hotel, located between Vanderbilt University and Centennial Park. You can use the free local shuttle to destinations within a 4 km radius of the hotel. Parking onsite for US $30/day.
5. Germantown
Germantown is a historic neighborhood located just north of downtown Nashville. It is one of Nashville’s oldest neighborhoods and is known for its charming and picturesque streets lined with Victorian-style homes and historic buildings.
Germantown has experienced significant revitalization in recent years, making it a trendy and desirable area to stay in Nashville. The neighborhood has a mix of residential properties, local businesses, restaurants, and boutique shops that contribute to its unique and vibrant character.
One of the notable landmarks in Germantown is the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, which celebrates the history of Tennessee with various monuments, a fountain, and a walking trail.
The Nashville Farmers’ Market, located adjacent to the park, is a popular destination for fresh produce, local food vendors, and artisanal products.
Germantown is also well-known for its culinary scene, with numerous restaurants offering a variety of cuisines ranging from Southern comfort food to international dishes.
The neighborhood has become a hotspot for food enthusiasts, and several annual events celebrate its gastronomic culture.
Best places to stay in Nashville in Germantown without a car:
- Budget ($): Sonder The Chorus, great accommodation located in a quiet area, close to Germantown and a quick Uber or scooter ride to downtown Nashville.
- Budget ($): Sonder at Ziel Haus , an aparthotel in the center of Nashville, in the charming Germantown where you can find First Horizon Baseball Park, a range of boutique and great restaurants inside restored Victorian-style buildings.
6. Music Valley
Music Valley is a popular area to stay in Nashville, especially for those who are interested in exploring the city’s vibrant music scene. It is a short ride from both Downtown Nashville and the Nashville International Airport.
It is located near the Grand Ole Opry, a famous country music venue, and other attractions like the Opry Mills shopping mall and the General Jackson Showboat.
Music Valley offers a mix of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals, making it convenient for tourists. Staying in Music Valley without a car, you might have to rely on taxis, ride-sharing services, or limited bus routes to travel to downtown Nashville.
Best places to stay in Music Valley without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, well-known resort in Music Valley, surrounded by 9 acres of indoor gardens, winding rivers and waterfalls
- Mid-range ($$): Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, great hotel located within a short drive from The Grand Ole Opry and Bass Pro Shops. The business center, laundry facilities, and free car parking if you come with a car.
- Budget ($): Holiday Inn Express Nashville-Opryland, 3-star hotel located near Nashville’s Opryland and minutes from Nashville International Airport with free shuttle service.
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In conclusion, Downtown Nashville, The Gulch, Midtown, West End, Germantown, and Music Valley are the best places to stay in Nashville without a car. They are safe and convenient locations offering a wide range of accommodation for travelers to stay and explore the city.
Personally, I recommend Downtown as the best overall area for a first visit due to its central location and proximity to major attractions. You can easily explore on foot, by free circle bus, and ride sharing services such as Uber and Lyft.