Fun, Free Things to Do in Nashville

When people think of Nashville, they often picture honky tonks, hot chicken, and country stars—but there’s way more to Music City than meets the eye. Whether you're strolling through a park, catching live tunes, or browsing local art, there's a long list of fun, free things to do in Nashville that will show you how awesome this city is beyond the neon lights.

This month, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite free stuff to do in Nashville, along with a bonus section of under-$20 ideas that deliver maximum fun without maxing out your budget.

When you book direct with Nautical Properties, you’ll save on fees and stay steps from the action, without sacrificing comfort, space, or convenience.

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Free Things to Do in Nashville

Stroll Through Centennial Park + See the Parthenon

Located on West End, Centennial Park is a 132-acre sprawling park perfect for picnics, people-watching, and snapping that classic shot of the Parthenon. The full-scale replica is free to admire from the outside, and the expansive green space around it includes walking paths, gardens, and a lake. 

• Neighborhood: Midtown

Catch Free Live Music at Musicians Corner

Held in Centennial Park, this seasonal event features 35 performances over seven concert dates each summer and fall. The 2025 fall season kicks off August 29–31, with past performers including legends like Emmylou Harris, Chris Stapleton, and The Lone Bellow. It’s one of the best ways to catch incredible live music in a laid-back setting that’s not a bar.

• Neighborhood: Midtown
• Fall Season Begins: August 29–31, 2024

Explore the Tennessee State Museum

This modern, beautifully curated museum offers a deep dive into the history of the Volunteer State. Exhibits range from Indigenous cultures to civil rights movements, plus there’s a hands-on Children’s Gallery if you’re visiting with little ones.

• Address: 1000 Rosa L. Parks Blvd, Nashville, TN 37208
• Hours:
  • Tues–Sat: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Sun: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Closed Mondays
• Neighborhood: Downtown/Germantown (near Bicentennial Capitol Mall)

Visit the Nashville Farmers Market

Right next door to the State Museum, this year-round market features outdoor vendors, farm-fresh goods, and an indoor food hall with diverse restaurant options ranging from crepes to tacos to curry. Even if you’re not in the mood to shop, it’s a great spot to explore.

• Neighborhood: Germantown

Art Crawls Around the City

Nashville’s art scene is alive and well. Check out these three standout monthly events that are each completely free:

• FirstBank First Saturday Art Crawl (Downtown): Dozens of galleries open 5–8 p.m. on the first Saturday monthly. Many offer free wine and light snacks.
• WeHo Art Crawl (Wedgewood-Houston): Same date, more industrial vibe. Explore local galleries like Zeitgeist and Fort Houston with live music and creative showcases.
• 100 Taylor Arts Market (Germantown): Held the third Saturday of each month, this daytime event spotlights over 60 local artists with music, beer, and makers' goods.

Bluegrass at Station Inn

This beloved Midtown venue hosts free bluegrass jam sessions every Sunday night. Opened in 1974, this is a piece of Nashville Music History that’s well worth the visit.  

• Neighborhood: The Gulch/Midtown
• Cost: Free on Sundays

Wander the Gaylord Opryland Resort

Even if you’re not staying here, the Gaylord Opryland Hotel is worth a visit. Inside, you’ll find tropical gardens, waterfalls, a river with boat rides, shops, and restaurants—all under a beautiful glass roof. It's like a mini indoor city.

• Neighborhood: Music Valley
• Cost: Free to walk through
• More Near the Area: There are great vintage stores nearby, like Dashwood and Vinterest where you can explore unique trinkets and Nashville-themed souvenirs.

Walk the Music City Walk of Fame

Right by the Country Music Hall of Fame, this outdoor tribute honors artists like Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and Garth Brooks. It’s open 24/7 and great for a quick stroll before dinner or a show.

• Neighborhood: Downtown

Hike at Radnor Lake or Shelby Park

• Radnor Lake State Park (South Nashville): A peaceful, wildlife-rich nature reserve with 6+ miles of hiking trails.
• Shelby Park (East Nashville): Paved paths and river views along the Cumberland River.
• Best Time: Early morning or sunset

Tour Marathon Motor Works

Part museum, part shopping/dining destination, Marathon Village is a revitalized auto factory filled with history. The small motor works museum is free to explore and offers a glimpse into Nashville’s early automotive era. As you tour the factory, stop in at the shops and see if something catches your eye! Or, visit Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery or Corsair Distillery for tastings of delicious craft spirits. Tastings are typically $10 or under.

• Neighborhood: North Gulch

Pedestrian Bridge Photos

The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge offers one of the best views of the Nashville skyline. It connects East Nashville to downtown and is completely car-free—perfect for sunset selfies or romantic walks. A popular proposal spot, this is guaranteed to offer an epic backdrop if you’re planning on popping the question.

• Neighborhood: Downtown
• Best Light: Golden hour
• Other Great Skyline Views: Visit Love Circle to see the entire city from above. Just put 3300 Love Cir, Nashville, TN 37212, in your GPS or tell your rideshare driver—they’ll know where to go. This lesser-known spot is also free.

Fun Nashville Activities Under $20

Though not entirely free, the following activities are all under $20, and in a town where chicken tenders and Bud Light can cost upwards of $50 at a downtown bar, these are a good alternative. 

Duckpin Bowling at Pins Mechanical

This trendy arcade/bar hybrid in The Gulch offers vintage-style bowling for a steal.

• Price: $8/game Mon–Thurs, $9/game Fri–Sun
• Location: The Gulch

Coffee + Window Shopping in 12 South

Start your morning at Frothy Monkey, then explore chic boutiques and colorful murals in one of Nashville’s most walkable neighborhoods.

• Price: Varies based on drink
• Location: 12 South
• Don’t Miss: The "I Believe in Nashville" mural

Recession Special at Robert’s Western World

Known as the best deal on Broadway, this $6 combo includes a fried bologna sandwich, chips, a MoonPie, and a PBR—plus free live music from arguably the best house band in the city.

• Location: Broadway
• Cost: $6 + tax/tip
• Music: Daily, starts early afternoon 

Tour the Parthenon Indoors

You’ve seen it from the outside, but did you know the interior includes a full-scale golden Athena statue and an art museum?!

• Cost: $15/person
• Hours:
  • Mon–Thurs: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
  • Fri–Sat: 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • Sun: 12:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• Neighborhood: Midtown

See a Movie at the Belcourt Theatre

This historic theater in Hillsboro Village showcases indie films, documentaries, and cult classics.

• Cost: $13.50 per ticket
• Neighborhood: Hillsboro Village
• Insider Tip: Visiting over Halloween? The Belcourt frequently hosts showings of the Rocky Horror Picture Show in October. People come in costume, ready to sing along to the Time Warp.

Explore the Frist Art Museum

Housed in a 1930s art deco post office, the Frist features ever-changing exhibits in a stunning space. It's perfect for families traveling with kids, too—the hands-on exhibits upstairs will get all their creative juices flowing.

• Cost: $20 for adults
• Neighborhood: Downtown
• Hours: Vary, check website before visiting

Moonshine Tasting at 6th & Peabody

Just steps from your Nashville vacation rental from Nautical Properties, you can sample a variety of Ole Smoky Moonshine and Yee-Haw beer at this popular bar/entertainment hub. Get the full breakdown of what to expect in our article: Ole Smoky Distillery in Nashville: The Ultimate Moonshine Experience 

• Neighborhood: SoBro
• Price: $10 for Standard Tasting, $13 for Premium. Coupons and other discounts available with purchase 

Play Mini Golf at Puttshack

Tech-infused, neon-lit, and full of energy, Puttshack in The Gulch is far from your average mini golf. Choose from four nine-hole courses, and add on a cocktail for a few dollars more.

• Cost: $14/person for 9 holes or $25 unlimited play on Sundays
• Neighborhood: The Gulch

Stroll the Gardens at Cheekwood

Cheekwood is a 55-acre botanical garden and estate with seasonal flower displays, sculptures, and beautiful walking paths. In the fall, it’s filled with pumpkin archways. Winter brings twinkle lights and holiday vibes, and in spring, tulips and daffodils burst with color. Perfect for photos, special events, or a casual stroll.

• Cost: $20 per ticket (gardens only)
• Neighborhood: Belle Meade
• Seasonal Highlight: Holiday lights and tulip season

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If you want to experience all these fun, free things to do in Nashville and more, there’s no better home base than our stylish vacation rentals in Nashville, TN, downtown, next to all the best activities, dining, and entertainment the city has to offer. Stay just steps away from live music, museums, historic landmarks, and much more when you book directly with us!

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• No third-party fees like you get from Airbnb and Vrbo
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Frequently Asked Questions about Free Things to Do in Nashville

When is the best time to go to Nashville?

There’s no bad time to visit Music City! Regardless of when you’re here, you’ll find incredible free things to do. Spring and fall offer the best mix of pleasant weather and events like art crawls and outdoor concerts. Summers are hot but full of free music, outdoor movie nights, and festivals. Winter drapes downtown and places like Opryland in thousands of wonderland lights.

Are there free things to do in Nashville today?

Yes! Explore Radnor, Shelby, or Centennial Park, visit the Music City Walk of Fame, go on a sightseeing stroll, or hear some live music at a downtown bar! These are just a few of the free things that happen every day in Nashville.

Is downtown Nashville walkable?

Downtown is very walkable, especially around Broadway, The Gulch, and the pedestrian bridge. For areas beyond Broadway, like 12 South, East Nashville, or Midtown, you’ll want to drive and park, then walk through the neighborhoods.

Where can I hear live music for free in Nashville?

Try Musicians Corner, Station Inn on Sundays, or any of the Broadway bars. There’s no cover charge, and the only money you’ll spend is if you buy a drink.

What are some unique neighborhoods to explore in Nashville for free?

Wander 12 South for murals and boutiques, East Nashville for vintage shops and parks, and Germantown for local art and historic charm.