What Locals Wish Tourists Knew About Nashville
- Paul Whitten
- May 20
- 4 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Before You Order That $30 “Yeehaw Shot” on Broadway
Welcome to Nashville, y’all — the city of hot chicken, honky-tonks, and how-the-heck-did-I-spend-$400-before-noon. We love our visitors (seriously, we do!), but after giving thousands of tours and watching countless pedal taverns go by, we’ve compiled a list of things locals really wish you knew before hitting Music City.
Whether you're in town for a bachelorette party, a convention, or a weekend of “finding yourself” in cowboy boots, this guide will help you avoid classic tourist pitfalls. You might even earn a nod of respect from someone who actually lives here.
Broadway is Fun, But It’s Not the Whole City
Yes, you should absolutely two-step your way into a honky-tonk. But don't stop there! Nashville is bursting with vibrant neighborhoods full of local gems. Explore East Nashville for live music and vintage finds. Visit 12 South for boutique shopping and colorful murals. Discover Germantown for brunch and craft cocktails. And don't miss The Nations if you want to eat BBQ out of a shipping container while soaking up the vibe.
Pro tip: If the bar you’re in has a mechanical bull and $19 beers, chances are the guy next to you thinks Johnny Cash was a country DJ on TikTok.
Not All Boots Are Created Equal
Buying cowboy boots on Broadway seems like a rite of passage. However, your feet may protest after a few hours. Those two-for-one deals? They often prioritize aesthetic over comfort. If you want boots that won’t betray you halfway through the night, check out a local outfitter off the main drag or just bring your own well-worn pair. Your ankles will thank you later!
Experience Nashville's Hot Chicken
You’ve heard the hype, and you’ve seen the lines, but let’s set the record straight: hot chicken is not just spicy fried chicken. It’s an experience—a rite of pain and passage. This dish is designed for those who believe that regular suffering deserves a side of pickles.
Start with mild. No matter how tough you think you are, that “extra hot” level has broken stronger folks than you. (And if you're feeling brave, our guides are happy to reveal which spot will wreck your weekend the fastest.)
Please Stop Yelling “YEEHAW” at Strangers
We understand you're excited, but not everyone in Nashville is here for cowboy cosplay. The real locals? They’re often wearing Carhartt because they have to build something early in the morning. To blend in a bit better, try saying “How y’all doin'?” instead. Bonus points if you ask about someone’s favorite hidden gem in town. We love bragging about our favorite dive bars and taco trucks.
History Is Everywhere (Even When It’s Hiding)
You might think Nashville’s story starts and ends with country music, but this city has layers. From Civil War battlegrounds and freedmen communities to prohibition-era tunnels and haunted theaters, Nashville offers rich history. You just need to know where to look. (Hint: That’s where we come in!)
If you want more than neon signs and souvenir shot glasses, book a walking tour for deeper insights. You’ll hear stories that don’t show up on Google Maps. Real people. Real places. Real weirdness. Because Nashville isn’t just a party — it’s a patchwork of the past stitched into the present.
Tip Your Musicians — and Your Guides
The guitar player on that stage? He likely played the Opry last week. The singer in the corner? She writes for Grammy winners. And that tour guide sharing stories? He’s probably a historian, a veteran, or both.
People here hustle hard. A $5 tip may seem small, but in Nashville, it’s a standing ovation with financial benefits.
More Than Just “NashVegas”
We know people love to call it that, but most locals respond with a polite smile followed by an internal sigh. Sure, Nashville has its party scene, but it’s also full of storytellers, artists, chefs, teachers, builders, historians, and makers. It’s a city rich with soul.
Come for the fun, but stay for the depth! Or at least take a few hours to walk past the bachelorette tiaras and discover the stories hidden behind the bricks.
Want to experience that side of the city? Come walk with us. We promise: no neon lasso required.
NashvilleAdventures.com Because history isn't behind glass — it's on the streets.
TLDR
FAQ — What Locals Wish Tourists Knew
When is the best time to visit Nashville? Spring and fall bring the best weather, fewer storms, and plenty of festivals.
How should I act in a honky-tonk? Tip the band, keep requests short and kind, and don’t block the dancefloor.
Do I need a car to get around? Not downtown. Rideshare, scooters, and walking work great for Broadway, SoBro, and The Gulch.
What’s a respectful way to enjoy Broadway at night? Pace yourself, hydrate, and be mindful of neighbors—people live and work downtown.
What local food should I try first? Hot chicken, a classic “meat-and-three,” and a biscuit spot—start there.
Local Tips for Visiting Nashville
Book popular restaurants a week ahead.
Tip live musicians and bartenders generously.
Walk or rideshare downtown—parking fills fast.
Explore beyond Broadway: East Nashville, 12South, Germantown.
Hydrate and pace yourself on weekend nights.
Try a museum or historic site during the day.
Respect neighborhoods—keep noise down late.
