Nashville is the perfect place for a holiday away with family or friends, and an exciting commercial and industrial hub if you’re arriving here on business. If you’re flying into the city, we have a pick-up desk located in Nashville International Airport, so you can be on your way quickly. Take I-40 from the airport to reach the city centre, where a whole host of attractions and days out will be ready for you to enjoy.

Referred to as the “soul of Nashville”, the Ryman Auditorium can be a great place to really get a feel for the city. The I-40 from the airport will lead you right round to this major attraction in the city. From the auditorium, it’s well worth checking out the Parthenon in Centennial Park. This is a full-size replica of the Athenian originals and can be found following Charlotte Avenue from the Auditorium. Back along the I-40 to the east is the incredible Adventure Science Center, which is packed with fun scientific exploration for the whole family. 

If you’re new to driving in the US, you may find the sheer scale of the road network intimidating to begin with. However, this is a country that takes cars and highways very seriously so you’ll soon learn that if you follow the rules, getting from A to B can be a pleasurable experience. The state of Tennessee has a well-designed, clearly signposted, modern road system in place. The speed limit on open roads is 70mph or 55mph. In built-up areas or close to schools, it drops to between 15mph and 35mph.

When you need to park up your vehicle, there are plenty of options in downtown Nashville. From car parks to multi-storey garages, you'll find a spot that serves your needs. Hourly rates start from around $3 with prices rising in the most convenient areas.

The city may be the ultimate pilgrimage for many fans of country music, but you'll find Nashville is a prospering city and a thriving metropolis of things to do. From peaceful lakes to the abundance of arts, hiring car will allow you take in the best this city has to offer.

All-night music

Head for the bright lights of Lower Broadway to find the heart of Nashville’s famous live music scene. Every night of the week, you’ll be able to see live bands play for tips , and restaurants full of musical mementoes.

Nearby you can tour the Ryman Auditorium, the traditional home of the Grand Ole Opry TV show and a major venue for country music stars. Step inside the Country Music Hall of Fame to see exhibits like Hank Williams’ suit and Elvis’s Cadillac. Even the Sawtooth Print Shop, where music posters have been turned out on simple flat-bed presses for decades, has become a Nashville visitor attraction.

Culture and fun

Take a break from the country music scene by enjoying a stroll in the Bicentennial Capitol Mall. This 19-acre city centre park leads up to the Tennessee State Capitol building, a classically styled landmark, which was built before the Civil War.

Try spot Nashville’s own reproduction of the Greek Parthenon - it’s an art gallery alongside a lake. Nearby is Opry Mills, which gives you a chance to browse for bargains in a huge shopping mall with more than 200 stores.

One of the best Nashville experiences to see is the city’s impressive high-rise skyline from the Cumberland River. You can book a cruise on a traditional paddleboat here and dine on board, whilst a live country group serenades you with traditional Nashville music.

Tennessee's great outdoors

Away from the bustle of Nashville's city centre, you can explore the natural beauty on offer in around the city. Head east out of the city and take in the scenic backdrop of Percy Priest Lake - ideal if you're fan of everything outdoors. Take to the lake for a spot of fishing, or wander into the surrounding woodlands for a spot of hiking. Adrenaline-junkies will want to try out the mountain biking routes, or tackle wake boarding or water skiing.

Closer to central Nashville is Selby Park, the perfect for a quick escape into tranquillity. Stroll around the park's footpaths and look out over the water to see if you can spot any of the natural wildlife on offer.

Hire a car in Nashville and you'll be able to take in everything this iconic city has in store.