Planning a trip to Nashville for the weekend? Niiice. Nashville is perfect for a weekend trip, with the laid-back pace that the South knows well, and a memorable charm that’ll tug at your heart strings. You might be a ways from the nearest ocean, but “Music City” is a different kind of paradise that’s just as cool and refreshing. Downtown stomps to its own beat, and after just three days at Margaritaville Vacation Club - Nashville, you might just be trading your flip-flops for cowboy boots more often.
Even better, a long weekend is plenty of time to hit the highlights and soak up the atmosphere, especially when you’re in the best area to experience it all — just steps from Broadway’s honky tonks and can’t-miss spots. If you decide to go in the spring or fall, that’s just the salt on the rim. The weather will be just right to set the tone for a weekend of bliss.
Morning
No crack-of-dawn alarms here, just wake up before your belly starts to grumble. Walk over to The Southern for a long brunch and delights like lemon ricotta pancakes or a southern fried egg sandwich. Pair it with a mimosa, or why not go all-in with a mimosa carafe?
You’ll pass Broadway on your way to brunch, and take a moment to get a good look at it in the daylight. It’s already up and lively, and you may hear melodies floating out of the bars and venues down the way. Don’t worry, you’ll be back just in time when it transforms into a honky tonk haven.
Afternoon
After brunch, take the short walk over to the Music City Walk of Fame Park to see the star plaques of country legends and snap a selfie with your favorite star’s marker. If you’re curious about Nashville’s musical heritage, you could pop into the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum right across the street to browse its extensive collections. No formal tour is necessary to enjoy the vibe, so enjoy as you please.
When you’re ready for a break, take an “island” detour back at your resort. Head up to the resort’s rooftop Fins Bar and pool deck for a chill oasis amid the city bustle. Lounge poolside with a margarita in hand as you gaze at panoramic views of downtown.
Evening
As the sun goes down, get ready for a night of live music on Honky Tonk Highway, Nashville’s famous strip of bars on Lower Broadway. In true Nashville fashion, no tickets or big concert halls needed, just wander from bar to bar and let the music find you.
Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is a great place to start the legendary purple-fronted honky tonk that’s been a launching pad for many country stars. Then mosey in and out of other iconic spots like Robert’s Western World or Layla’s. Live music pours out of every door from late morning until the wee hours, with talented up-and-coming artists on each small.
Morning
Start day two slowly, you’re on vacation, after all! Maybe take a morning dip in the rooftop pool or grab a coffee in the lobby to enjoy on the deck as the city wakes up around you. When hunger calls, meander to Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant, a Nashville institution known for its Southern comfort food and hospitality.
Their weekend brunch will treat you to classics like fluffy pancakes, biscuits and gravy, or even a hearty skillet of hash browns and eggs. It’s a laid-back, homestyle meal in a venue that often features live acoustic music in the background.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon mixing a bit of sightseeing with plenty of relaxation. For a dose of local culture, take a walk to Fifth + Broadway, a new pedestrian-friendly complex downtown. Browse local boutiques and souvenir shops at your own pace — pick up a “Nashville” T-shirt or maybe a pair of snazzy boots to commemorate your trip.
If you’re craving a snack, Fifth + Broadway’s Assembly Food Hall has dozens of food stalls where you can grab a quick bite, from sushi and tacos to gourmet cookie dough.
Evening
Tonight, savor Nashville’s softer side. If you’re in the mood for inventive Southern cuisine, try Husk Nashville, famed for its farm-to-table dishes in a cozy historic house.
If you’re ready to venture out, catch a set at The Listening Room Cafe, a small venue in SoBro where Nashville’s talented songwriters sing their hearts out in an intimate setting that’s a memorable contrast to the casual spirit of the honky tonks. Whether you stay in or step out, keep it easy and let the music come to you.
Morning
Enjoy a relaxed final day — you’ve earned it. Brunch today is at The Diner in downtown Nashville, an only-in-Nashville spot just a 10-minute walk away. This six-story restaurant has a unique twist: each floor offers a different dining experience, from sushi to steaks to classic comfort food.
Ride the elevator up to the floor that matches your mood, like the brunch level for some hot chicken and waffles or a hearty Southern omelet. With floor-to-ceiling windows, The Diner also gives you great views of the city waking up. Linger over a second cup of coffee, there’s no need to rush on a laidback getaway day.
Afternoon
After brunch, get a last taste of Nashville’s local scene with a leisurely outdoor excursion. If the weather’s nice, take a short trip to Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park and the Nashville Farmers’ Market. This park is a favorite spot for locals, with its calm green space, views of the State Capitol and a series of monuments to Tennessee history. Make your way through the park and then wander into the adjacent open-air Farmers’ Market to take some fresh lemonade to go.
By now, you can’t leave Nashville without trying its famous hot chicken. So, for a late lunch or afternoon snack, head to Party Fowl, a favorite local spot that takes Nashville’s signature hot chicken to the next level. Choose your heat level from mild to “barn burner,” and even try creative dishes like hot chicken and beignets or a hot chicken po’boy.
Evening
As your mellow Nashville weekend winds down, enjoy one last memorable evening. If you’re up for it, catch sunset with some bites at a rooftop lounge. It could be back at Fins Bar or perhaps at another scenic rooftop like L.A. Jackson in The Gulch, known for its sweeping skyline views and crafty cocktails.
Watching the sun sink low over the Cumberland River and the Batman Building spire while sipping a rum runner is a sublime way to say goodbye to Music City.
