Why You Will Love Visiting Nashville, TN in Winter

By Jennifer Jeffcoat - Jennifer has lived in Music City for 15 years. She writes for Nautical Properties on all things Nashville, giving you insider tips and local must-dos. 

Posted: December 5, 2025 

Planning a winter getaway to Nashville, TN? This is one of our favorite times of year to enjoy the city. With holiday lights draped across iconic landmarks, festive shows filling historic theaters, and plenty of one-of-a-kind experiences happening across town, winter in Nashville brings a completely different energy than the warmer months. Whether you’re carving out time for a quick family escape or mapping out a longer stay, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy Nashville during December and beyond.

Our curated list of to-dos is a great starting spot for building an unforgettable itinerary.

What’s the Weather Like in Nashville, TN, in Winter?

From December through February, Nashville’s winter weather is relatively mild compared to colder parts of the state like the Smokies, but you’ll still want a jacket. Highs often land in the mid-40s to low-50s, while nighttime temperatures dip into the 30s and below. Snow isn’t guaranteed, but light flurries aren’t unusual, especially in January.

Winter is also one of the calmest times of year for exploring Music City, making this season ideal for enjoying the slower pace between holiday markets, concerts, and seasonal celebrations.

The Best Things to Do in Nashville in Winter

Nashville in winter is built for nights of classic Christmas displays, winter sports, live entertainment, and cozy strolls through neighborhoods with hot cocoa in hand. Here are our top recommendations for things to do in Nashville in winter.

See the Holiday Lights at Gaylord Opryland

Few Nashville traditions are as iconic as the holiday displays at Gaylord Opryland. This sprawling resort transforms into a glowing wonderland each year with its themed walk-through exhibits, riverboat rides, and elaborate décor that fills every corner of the property.

Pair your visit with an evening show at the Grand Ole Opry or a cozy dinner nearby—it makes for one of the most memorable nights of the season. And while you’re there, be sure to check out the magical ICE! Experience.

Nashville’s ICE! – This Year Featuring A Charlie Brown Christmas

If you haven’t experienced ICE! yet, consider this your sign. Every winter, Gaylord Opryland hosts this immersive attraction carved entirely from ice—two million pounds of it, in fact. This year’s theme, A Charlie Brown Christmas, brings familiar scenes to life with colorful sculptures, frozen tunnels, and chilly slides that both kids and adults love. 

Details:

• Parkas provided to keep you warm as you explore
• Before your entry, explore a winter-themed shop, grab hot chocolate, and get a themed photo taken
• Plan for 20-40 minutes to see all the sculptures
• Tickets must be purchased online in advance
• Prices vary, but expect $30-$45 per person, depending on day and time. Children under three are free

Wander the Grounds at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

Cheekwood in winter feels peaceful and refined, especially when you walk through the garden paths at dusk. Their annual holiday lights display brings the estate to life with glowing tunnels, sparkling trees, and illuminated installations throughout the grounds. It’s one of the best ways to enjoy a winter evening, taking in art, nature, and seasonal cheer all in one place.

Details:

• November 21 – December 4 | 4:30 PM to 10 PM
• Botanical gardens and museum access
• Tickets start at $26 – Purchase online

Attend a Nashville Winter Event

Nashville’s calendar stays full throughout the colder months, making it easy to find something festive and fun to add to your itinerary.

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The Music City Bowl

Sports fans won’t want to miss the annual Music City Bowl on December 30. Held at Nissan Stadium, this college football matchup features one SEC team and one Big Ten opponent—teams are selected based on conference standings and committee placement. The game draws thousands of fans each year and is a lively way to wrap up the holiday season. Pre-game on Broadway before walking over the pedestrian bridge for the game. Don’t forget to take advantage of this exceptional vantage point for pictures.

Nashville Predators Hockey

Winter is prime time for catching a Nashville Predators game at Bridgestone Arena. Even casual hockey watchers will love this outing. Home games are loud, there’s always a spectacular musical guest, and you may even see a flying catfish (if you know, you know).

Tennessee Titans Football

If you're in town earlier in the season, check the Titans' schedule and see if there's a home game. Tickets are easy to score, and even if they lose the game, they never lose the party! 

Zoolumination: Festival of Lights

The Nashville Zoo’s annual light festival is one of the city’s most impressive winter displays. Expect massive lantern sculptures, glowing pathways, and photo spots from end to end. As the largest lantern festival in the U.S., it’s something you can’t truly appreciate the scale of without seeing it for yourself.

Details:

• When: November 13 – January 4 from 5 PM to 9 PM
• Single-Day Pass Adult Tickets $25 | Kids (2-12) $21
• Santa visits from November 28 – Christmas Eve
• Ice Skating at the Smashville Rink for $12 | Reserve your spot

Explore the NashVillage Holiday Market

Dates: December 5 – 7 | Walk of Fame Park

If your visit lines up with this beloved market weekend, it’s worth carving out time to browse. Local makers, winter treats, hot drinks, and handmade goods create a warm, festive experience right in the heart of downtown. It’s a great place to pick up stocking stuffers or Nashville-made keepsakes.

Book a Heated Igloo at Top Note

There’s something undeniably fun about tucking into a heated igloo on a cool winter night. Top Note’s seasonal setup offers skyline views, cozy seating, and plenty of warmth despite the weather. Each reservation lasts 90 minutes and accommodates up to seven guests—perfect for families or small groups looking for a unique winter hangout in Music City. 

Details:

• Available December – February 15
• Minimum spend requirement of $150 per party
• Book in advance

Shop Nashville’s Best Winter Neighborhoods

When the air turns cold, Nashville’s small retail corridors are ablaze with holiday décor and unique finds at wonderful independent shops. If you want to enjoy some winter retail therapy, visit:

• Marathon Village – Historic factory filled with boutiques, artisan studios, and distilleries, candy shops, and more!
• 12 South – One of the city’s most beloved walking neighborhoods, you’ll find luxury brands alongside trendy restaurants, popular coffee shops, and boutiques.
• The Shops of Fatherland – A great stop for handcrafted goods, one-of-a-kind gifts, and even things for your four-legged friends. 

Catch a Seasonal Show

Nashville is so much more than country music. We’ve got a stunning symphony center, a performing arts center, concert halls, and much more. If you’re visiting this winter, why not see what’s on at these popular spots?

TPAC (Tennessee Performing Arts Center)

This winter, classics like It’s a Wonderful Life, The Nutcracker, and Les Misérables fill the calendar. It’s perfect for families or anyone craving a little tradition or culture.

Grand Ole Opry

Pair an evening show with a stroll through Opryland’s holiday lights for a full night of winter magic.

Schermerhorn Symphony Center

Movie screenings where the orchestra plays the score alongside the film, holiday shows, jazz concerts, and even popular songwriters performing their songs in the round with orchestral backing are all on this year’s winter calendar.

Make Your Winter Stay Easy with Nautical Properties

Featured Property: Belmont and Broadway

After a day of shows, lights, or chilly outdoor exploring, it’s nice to come back to a place where you can warm up, unwind, and enjoy a peaceful evening. Our Nashville rentals put you close to downtown attractions, neighborhood restaurants, and popular winter events, while giving you space to relax between adventures. 

When you book direct, you skip third-party fees, get personalized service from a local team, and secure the exact spot you want at the best available rate. Browse our full collection of Nashville vacation rentals and start planning your winter escape today.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Nashville, TN in Winter

What is winter like in Nashville, TN?

Winter in Nashville is cold without being painful to walk around in all day, making it an excellent season for exploring holiday lights, museums, shows, and outdoor attractions. With fewer crowds, popular spots like 6th and Peabody can feel entirely your own, while Broadway will still be rocking every day with live music and fun bars to explore.

How cold does Nashville, TN get in winter?

Nightly lows are frequently in the low 30s or high 20s, especially in January (the coldest month). But daytime temps are usually more tolerable, typically in the 40s or low 50s.