Where to Park for Nashville Predators Games: A Local’s Guide from the Streets of Smashville

If you’ve ever circled downtown before a Preds game, you already know—parking in Smashville is a sport of its own. Whether you’re a lifelong local or in town for your first NHL experience, finding a good spot before the puck drops can make or break your night. As someone who’s led walking tours down those same streets in every season Nashville has to offer, I’ve learned a few insider secrets about parking near Bridgestone Arena that’ll save you time, cash, and frustration.

1. The Golden Zone for Nashville Predators Parking : Broadway to Demonbreun

If you want to be close enough to feel the bass from the honky-tonks vibrating through the pavement, park between 5th Avenue and 8th Avenue. You’ll find several garages and surface lots that keep you within a quick walk to Bridgestone.

• Bridgestone Arena Garage (6th Ave S): Official parking, but it fills fast—book ahead through ParkWhiz or Ticketmaster’s parking link.

• Music City Center Garage (7th Ave & Demonbreun): Massive, covered, and often easier to exit post-game.

• Fifth + Broadway Garage: Ideal if you plan to grab a pre-game drink or bite at Assembly Food Hall.

Pro tip: After the game, avoid turning onto Broadway. Instead, use Demonbreun or McGavock for faster exits toward I-40 or I-65.

2. Budget-Friendly Alternatives

Not looking to spend $40 just to park your truck? Nashville’s got a few under-the-radar options if you’re willing to walk a few extra blocks.

• Library Garage (151 6th Ave N): Usually around $15 and less chaotic.

• First Baptist Church Lot (6th Ave & Broadway): Affordable and surprisingly close—cash only on game nights.

• Trolley Barns on 10th Ave: Great for bigger vehicles or group carpools.

Walking those extra blocks gives you a different side of downtown—street musicians, the smell of barbecue, and that electricity that makes you remember: this isn’t just hockey country anymore. This is Smashville.

3. Local Tricks Only Nashvillians Know

• Arrive early and enjoy it: Head down two hours before puck drop, grab a drink at Big Machine Distillery or dinner at The Southern Steak & Oyster, and let the parking chaos roll off your shoulders.

• Use parking apps: SpotHero and ParkWhiz can save you 20–30% if you reserve early.

• Free parking unicorns: After 6 p.m., street parking near the Tennessee State Capitol or along Union Street sometimes opens up. It’s a bit of a hike—but the skyline view on your walk down to Bridgestone is worth it.
  

4. Post-Game Exits Without the Headache

Everyone loves that “Let’s Go Preds!” chant—until you’re stuck in traffic singing it to your steering wheel.

• Head south toward Demonbreun and Korean Veterans Blvd for smoother exits.

• If you parked west of the arena, 12th Ave S toward the Gulch will get you out faster than the herd.

• For rideshares, skip Broadway entirely and meet your driver near Music Row Roundabout or Pine Street Flats in the Gulch.

  
  

5. Making a Night of It

If you’re visiting from out of town, make it more than a game night. Stay nearby at Belle Air Mansion or Dream Nashville, and explore a few local haunts before or after the game. Nashville doesn’t do “pre-game”—we do the whole experience.

And if you want to know more about the stories behind those streets—how Broadway became what it is, and why our city is built for comebacks—join one of our Nashville Adventures Walking Tours. We cover the history, the hustle, and the humanity behind this great Southern city… no jersey required.

Final Thoughts

The game for Nashville Predators Parking isn’t just logistics—it’s part of the experience. From the sound of the pedal taverns to the skyline shining off Bridgestone’s glass walls, there’s nothing quite like game night in downtown Nashville. With a little planning (and maybe this guide), you’ll spend less time circling and more time cheering.

See you on the streets of Smashville.