Looking for the perfect Nashville weekend itinerary? Whether you're planning a birthday celebration, girls' trip, bachelor or bachelorette party, or simply a fun getaway with friends, Nashville delivers unforgettable memories, incredible food, live music, and Southern charm.

For my 40th birthday, I gathered a group of eight of my favorite people and headed to Music City for three days of celebrating, exploring, and making memories. From Broadway's famous honky-tonks to rooftop dining and hidden local gems, here's everything we did during our Nashville adventure.

Getting to Nashville

When planning the trip, I chose the weekend before my birthday and booked my travel arrangements first. One of the best things about visiting Nashville is how affordable it can be to get there. I found round-trip airfare for just $126.

Our group traveled from different locations, with some flying and others driving. Everyone arrived between Friday evening and Saturday morning, making it easy for everyone to travel on their own schedule.

Where We Stayed: Holiday Inn Nashville Downtown – Broadway

For our long weekend, we stayed at the Holiday Inn Nashville Downtown – Broadway. Its location was ideal, just a few blocks from Broadway and many of Nashville's top attractions.

Since we visited in March, temperatures were cool and we experienced some rain. One feature we appreciated was the hotel's complimentary covered shuttle service that runs between the hotel and Broadway from 2:00 p.m. to midnight.

We booked three rooms at approximately $385 per night and split the cost among roommates, making the stay surprisingly affordable for a downtown Nashville hotel.

Day One: Exploring Broadway and Live Music

Our first stop Saturday morning was Five Daughters Bakery. Located just a short walk from our hotel, it was the perfect place to fuel up before a full day of exploring.

One important tip for Nashville visitors: wear comfortable shoes. You may be tempted to break in those brand-new cowboy boots, but you'll likely spend miles walking throughout the city.

After breakfast, we spent the day exploring Broadway. We browsed shops, listened to live music, sampled a few birthday drinks, and soaked in the electric atmosphere that makes Nashville famous. One local band even surprised me with a rendition of "Happy Birthday," making the day even more memorable.

Lunch at Assembly Food Hall

When hunger struck, we headed to Assembly Food Hall. This massive food hall is perfect for groups because everyone can choose something different. The only challenge? Finding seating on a busy Saturday.

Our recommendation is to grab a table first and then take turns ordering food. It makes the experience much less stressful for larger groups.

After lunch, we returned to the hotel to rest and freshen up before the evening festivities.

The Highlight of the Trip: Nashville Bar Bike

Saturday night brought what would become the highlight of our Nashville adventure.

We reserved a ride with Nashville Bar Bike, an affordable 16-person pedal tavern experience that takes guests through downtown Nashville and Music Row. Perfect for birthdays, bachelor and bachelorette parties, and group celebrations, the tour combines sightseeing with a rolling party atmosphere.

The experience is BYOB, and participants can bring their favorite beverages onboard. The company provides the driver, cooler, ice, cups, and an excellent sound system to keep the party going.

One thing we appreciated was that not everyone had to pedal. The bike includes an electric motor, making it enjoyable for all fitness levels.

Our group booked the 6:15 p.m. tour, and the timing couldn't have been better. Between the music, games, singing, and crowds gathering throughout downtown, it was an experience we'll never forget.

Discovering Printers Alley

After the bar bike tour ended, most of our group headed back to the hotel. A few of us decided to continue exploring and asked a couple of locals where we should go next.

If there's one travel tip I always recommend, it's this: ask locals for recommendations.

Their suggestion led us to Printers Alley, one of Nashville's historic nightlife districts tucked away from Broadway. The atmosphere was completely different and offered a glimpse into a side of Nashville many visitors miss.

Some of our favorite memories from the trip were made there.

12 South Shopping District — Taking in the murals in 12 South

Day Two: Shopping in 12 South and Dinner at White Limozeen

Sunday morning began with breakfast at First Watch before heading to one of Nashville's most popular neighborhoods: 12 South.

We grabbed a couple of Ubers and spent most of the day shopping, browsing local boutiques, discovering murals, and enjoying the neighborhood's relaxed atmosphere.

If you're looking for a break from Broadway, 12 South is a must-visit.

Dinner at White Limozeen

Sunday evening, we had reservations at White Limozeen, the iconic rooftop restaurant located atop the Graduate Nashville hotel.

White Limozeen Nashville, TN — Dinner at the White Limozeen

Inspired by Dolly Parton, White Limozeen offers sweeping rooftop views, glamorous décor, creative cocktails, and Southern-inspired cuisine with a French twist.

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for one of the most unique dining experiences in Nashville, White Limozeen is worth adding to your itinerary.

Day Three: Country Music History and Nashville Sightseeing

As some members of our group began their journey home Monday morning, the rest of us set out to see more of Nashville.

Country Music Hall of Fame

Our first stop was the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

Music fans could easily spend an entire day here. The exhibits showcase the history of country music through memorabilia, interactive displays, and fascinating stories from some of the industry's biggest stars.

Exploring Nashville with Old Town Trolley

If I could recommend one activity to every first-time Nashville visitor, it would be the Old Town Trolley Tour.

In fact, I wish we had done it on our first day.

The trolley provides an excellent overview of the city while introducing visitors to attractions they may not have otherwise discovered. We hopped off at several stops throughout the day and enjoyed exploring at our own pace.

Lunch at Nashville Farmers' Market

One of our favorite stops was the Nashville Farmers' Market, where we enjoyed lunch inside the Market House.

The variety of food options made it easy for everyone to find something they enjoyed, and it offered a nice break from the busy downtown atmosphere.

Touring Belmont Mansion

Before heading home, we made one final stop at Belmont Mansion.

This beautifully preserved historic home provided a fascinating glimpse into Nashville's past and served as the perfect way to wrap up our trip before returning home.

Tips for Visiting Nashville

Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Make restaurant reservations in advance for larger groups.
Stay within walking distance of Broadway if possible.
Ask locals for recommendations beyond Broadway.
Visit 12 South for shopping and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Take the Old Town Trolley Tour early in your trip.
Allow plenty of time at the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Final Thoughts

Three days in Nashville, TN — An amazing three days in Nashville, TN

Nashville exceeded every expectation I had for my 40th birthday celebration. Between the live music, incredible food, rooftop dining, shopping, and unforgettable experiences with family and friends, it was the perfect destination for a milestone birthday.

Whether you're planning a girls' getaway, birthday trip, bachelor or bachelorette party, or simply a long weekend with friends, Nashville offers something for everyone. I left with wonderful memories, sore feet, and already started thinking about my next visit to Music City.

Nashville, Tennessee: The Perfect 40th Birthday Getaway