How to make the most of a layover in Nashville

Nashville International Airport (airport code BNA) is a major gateway to the southern United States, with flights across the country as well as into Canada, the UK, and Mexico. Finding yourself with a layover at Nashville Airport is not uncommon, especially if you're traveling between these countries. And if you want to do something a little more interesting than browse the souvenir shops or grab a meal at the airport, downtown Nashville is a great place to explore and extend your vacation a little longer.

If you have more than a few hours on your layover, it's well worth considering dropping the bags off with a Bounce luggage storage in Nashville and heading into the city. After all, this is a city that's practically overflowing with live music, and many of Nashville's top attractions, including the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Grand Ole Opry are based around the city's rich musical heritage. Music lovers won't want to miss the opportunity to explore Music City.

Things to keep in mind before leaving Nashville Airport

Visa requirements for the US

If you’re flying into Nashville from overseas, be sure to review U.S. entry requirements. Some visitors, like those from Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and EU countries, can use the Visa Waiver Program. Others will need a visa or ESTA for short stays. Nashville International Airport’s facilities are efficient, ensuring smooth arrivals and departures, but it’s wise to allow extra time for security checks if you plan to leave the airport. US border officials often ask detailed questions, so have your documents ready and be prepared to provide clear answers.

Minimum layover times in Nashville

With Nashville’s close-knit downtown and easy public transportation options, even a short layover can be worthwhile. Here are some timeframes to guide you:

• In-airport short layover (2-3 hours): For a quick stop, Nashville’s airport has dining and shopping options where you can grab some Tennessee BBQ or souvenirs before your next flight.
• Domestic flights (3-4 hours): With 3 to 4 hours, you can explore the airport’s offerings and head to a Barista Parlor for a quick coffee break and some artisanal pastries or spend your time in a comfortable lounge.
• International flights (6-8 hours): This timeframe gives you plenty of time to visit downtown, where you can enjoy some live music, food, and Nashville’s famous honky tonks before heading back.
• Long layover (8+ hours): A long layover offers ample time to see Nashville’s popular attractions, grab a meal at a local restaurant, and maybe even catch a live performance at a honky tonk or music venue.

Getting around Nashville

The airport’s location makes it easy to reach downtown, where many of Nashville’s top spots are located. Rideshares and taxis are available, and public buses connect the airport to downtown. Be mindful of traffic, as it can be heavy during peak hours.

What to do in Nashville during a layover

Nashville’s lively atmosphere and iconic music scene make it a fun destination to explore during a layover. With everything from historic honky tonks to Southern comfort food and outdoor parks, here’s how to make the most of your Nashville layover.

But first, don't forget to leave your bags behind at a Bounce luggage storage location. We partner with local businesses to provide a convenient luggage storage service close to the airport and in the downtown core, so whatever you plan to do on your layover, you can leave the heavy bags behind. Then, when it's time to make your way back to the airport, simply pick them up and bring them with you.

Morning layover in Nashville

If you have a morning layover, start your day with some of Nashville’s best coffee and explore a few key spots downtown.

• Activities: Begin with a visit to Barista Parlor, a popular coffee shop in East Nashville known for its artisanal coffee and pastries. Afterward, head downtown to walk around Broadway, the famous strip lined with honky tonks and bars where live music fills the streets. If you’re looking for some early morning fun, some honky tonks have live music as early as 10 AM.
• Breakfast spots: Grab a hearty Southern breakfast at Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant, a downtown staple serving up classics like biscuits and gravy and chicken and waffles.

Afternoon layover in Nashville

For an afternoon layover, Nashville’s music venues, Southern food, and lively streets offer plenty to see and experience.

• Activities: Start by visiting Acme Feed & Seed, a four-story restaurant and live music venue on Broadway with great views of the Cumberland River. Next, check out the Country Music Hall of Fame or take a walk to the Ryman Auditorium, known as the “Mother Church of Country Music.” You’ll get a sense of Nashville’s musical roots and culture with a quick tour. This is not the place where you want to bring heavy bags with you, so remember to leave them behind at a Bounce luggage storage to make the most of your time here.
• Lunch spots: Stop by Hattie B’s for some of Nashville’s famous hot chicken, a must-try local specialty. If you’re looking for a fun atmosphere with live music, Wildhorse Saloon offers a mix of Southern dishes and line dancing.

Evening layover in Nashville

An evening layover in Nashville is the perfect time to experience the city’s nightlife, including live music, honky tonks, and great food.

• Activities: It's also worthwhile to start your evening at Acme Feed & Seed for sunset views, then take a walk down Broadway and explore the iconic honky tonks like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge and Robert’s Western World. For sports fans, Nashville is home to the Tennessee Titans (NFL) and Nashville Predators (NHL), so if you’re visiting during game season, catching a game can be a memorable part of your layover. Large bags aren't allowed inside stadiums and hockey arenas, which is why Bounce provides convenient luggage storage occasions throughout the city. You can leave any size of bag behind for as long as you need so that you can focus on enjoying yourself. Then, simply pick them up on your way back to the airport to catch your connecting flight.
• Dinner spots: Try The Southern Steak & Oyster for a mix of Southern classics with a modern twist, or head to Rolf and Daughters in Germantown for a unique culinary experience. Both are great places to eat and capture Nashville’s food scene.

Overnight layover in Nashville

If you have an overnight layover, Nashville’s music, dining, and hotel options make for a comfortable and memorable stay.

• Hotels: For a quick return to the airport, Hilton Nashville Downtown or Omni Nashville Hotel offers excellent downtown locations and easy access to the city’s top spots. If you’re looking for a unique Nashville experience, The Noelle has boutique-style accommodations with a creative, art-inspired atmosphere.
• Night activities: If you’re staying overnight, consider visiting 3rd and Lindsley or The Bluebird Café for live music in a more intimate setting.

Other notable attractions for a long layover in Nashville

• The Parthenon: Located in Centennial Park, this full-size replica of the Parthenon in Athens is a unique Nashville landmark with beautiful grounds and an art museum inside. On a sunny day, this is a great way to stretch your legs after a flight and enjoy some beautiful surroundings. Luckily, you know that Bounce has luggage storage facilities nearby so that you can drop off heavy things and enjoy the park without being weighed down.
• Nashville Farmers’ Market: Open year-round, the Nashville Farmers’ Market offers fresh produce, artisan goods, and a variety of dining options.

Tips for making the most of your Nashville layover

Here are some practical tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable layover in Nashville:

• Plan for traffic: Nashville traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hours or around big events. Give yourself extra time to get back to the airport so that you're not stressed out about making your flight.
• Check event schedules: Nashville hosts many festivals, concerts, and events throughout the year. Checking event schedules can help you catch a live performance or local happening during your layover.
• Currency and payment: The U.S. dollar (USD) is used in Nashville, and credit cards are widely accepted. If you do decide to take out some cash, you can save some money by taking it directly from local ATMs instead of changing money at the airport.

Nashville is a great place to visit on a layover, offering a fun mix of music, food, and unique Southern charm. Whether you’re sampling the atmosphere of Acme Feed & Seed, exploring historic sites, or enjoying hot chicken at Hattie B’s, Nashville promises a memorable stop before your next flight. And with your bags safely looked after by Bounce while you enjoy the city, you can make the most of your time in town, even if it's only a few hours.