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By James WindsorReviewed August 31, 202632,000+ layovers planned10 curated experiences for Nashville (Music City)

Welcome to Nashville International Airport (BNA), the vibrant gateway to Middle Tennessee and the legendary 'Music City.' Whether you are connecting between major hubs or arriving from a nearby city like those found in our Atlanta Layover Guide or Chicago Layover Guide, BNA offers a uniquely southern hospitality experience. Before you head out, make sure to track your Nashville flight path on Borderly to visualize your journey in real-time. Nashville is famous for its world-class music scene, 'hot chicken,' and historic architecture. Even a short stopover allows you to soak in the atmosphere of Lower Broadway. For those with a longer break, similar to the layovers explored in our Los Angeles Layover Guide, the city's rich cultural heritage and lush parks are easily accessible within 20 minutes of the terminal.

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Quick Answer

A Nashville layover at BNA airport is the perfect chance to explore 'Music City.' Located just 8 miles (15 minutes) from downtown, travelers can easily visit Broadway's honky-tonks, the Country Music Hall of Fame, or Centennial Park. Use ride-sharing or the WeGo bus for quick access to top-tier dining and live music.

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Layover-friendly tours in Nashville (Music City)

Browse all on Viator

Viator selectionLive recommendations

Nashville VIP Style Private Tour with Local Singer-Songwriter

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Fits your layover4+ hours layover

Nashville VIP Style Private Tour with Local Singer-Songwriter

There's no better way to experience Nashville than by being guided by resident Singer/Songwriter, Steven Whitson, who can offer a behind the scenes look into Music City and serenade your group with an original song he wrote. Starting and ending times for tour will be determined based on the customers itinerary and the guides availability for the day booked.

Duration

2 hours

+ 2h airport buffer

Layover fit

Good for 4–6 hour layovers

Needs 4h total

Admission

Check on Viator

What you'll see

Attraction stop (15 mins)

Drive along Riverfront & Broadway seeing the sights and sounds of downtown Nashville with your private tour guide & local singer/songwriter, Steven Whitson…you’ll get a lay of the land for when you’re ready to come back and experience all the Music & Nightlife along Broadway known as “Honkey Tonk Row! “

Attraction stop (20 mins)

History lesson and driving tour around the Becentennial Capitol Mall State Park, Farmers Market, 200 foot state map, World War II Memorial, ringing of the bells optional photo-op and bathroom break.

Attraction stop (15 mins)

An optional visit to Antique Archaeology (of American Pickers fame on the History Channel) and explore the shops/museum of Marathon Motor Works / take photo ops/ bathroom break

Attraction stop (15 mins)

Driving tour down Music Row seeing the famous studios “where the boys make noise” and hit songs are born! Quick stops and photo-ops available and optional…keep your eyes open for occasional celebrity sitings here!

+3 more stops

Ready to book for your Nashville (Music City) layover

Instant confirmation on many tours · Free cancellation available

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Walkin' Nashville - Music City Legends Tour

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Fits your layover4+ hours layover

Walkin' Nashville - Music City Legends Tour

This is a tour for music lovers wanting the inside story of how Nashville became Music City. Your friendly guide is Grammy-nominated music journalist Bill DeMain, a writer with over thirty years experience who’s contributed to publications such as MOJO and Rolling Stone. He is also a Nashville correspondent for the BBC. DeMain has interviewed an A-Z of pop and country music superstars, including Dolly Parton, Merle Haggard, Paul Simon, Billy Joel, Loretta Lynn, Willie Nelson, David Bowie and Stevie Nicks. An acclaimed songwriter, DeMain has had songs covered by such artists as Marshall Crenshaw, Kim Richey and Curtis Stigers. He’s also one half of the acclaimed pop duo Swan Dive. His songs have appeared in TV shows such as Sons of Anarchy and Private Practice. A long-time Nashville resident, DeMain will take you through decades of musical history, from country to rock, for an experience that will make your visit to Nashville an unforgettable one.

Duration

1h 40m

+ 2h airport buffer

Layover fit

Good for 4–6 hour layovers

Needs 3.7h total

Admission

What you'll see

Attraction stop (5 mins)

Tennessee's only 5-star hotel, built in 1910. Guests have included Charlie Chaplin, Enrico Caruso, JFK, Paul McCartney and Dolly Parton.

Attraction stop (5 mins)

F.W. Woolworth's, opened in 1913, was the site of Nashville's sit-ins, led by the legendary freedom rider and proponent of "good trouble," John Lewis.

Attraction stop (10 mins)

"Nashville's oldest shopping mall," built in 1902. We will visit The Peanut Shop, which opened in 1927.

Attraction stop (5 mins)

First opened in 1927 as Planter's Peanuts, this is one of the oldest surviving businesses in downtown Nashville. It's like stepping into a time capsule. Friendly, fun service and free samples!

+6 more stops

Ready to book for your Nashville (Music City) layover

Instant confirmation on many tours · Free cancellation available

Book on Viator

* Tours are scored against your layover length — availability and pricing confirmed on Viator.

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Match The Query Intent

What Works for Your Nashville (Music City) Layover Length?

Start with your connection length first. This is the fastest way to decide whether to stay airside, head into the city, or plan around transit and visa constraints.

2 Hours

Can you leave the airport?

Best for Quick connections

Enjoy live music at the airport stages, browse local boutiques, or relax in a lounge.

4 Hours

Can you leave the airport?

Yes (Tight)

Best for Adventurous travelers

Quick Uber to Lower Broadway for a honky-tonk visit and a BBQ lunch.

6-8 Hours

Can you leave the airport?

Yes

Best for Sightseers

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, walk the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge, and try hot chicken.

8-12 Hours

Can you leave the airport?

Yes

Best for Full city experience

Explore Centennial Park, the Parthenon, Ryman Auditorium tour, and shopping at Fifth + Broadway.

12+ Hours (Overnight)

Can you leave the airport?

Yes

Best for Night owls & music lovers

Evening at a famous music venue like Bluebird Cafe (booking required) and a hotel stay in Sobro.

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Home to These Airports

Nashville Area Airports

BNA

Nashville International Airport

Arrive 2 hours early for security; the airport is undergoing construction so check signage frequently.

🕒 24/7🧳 None inside terminal (use external services like Stasher or LuggageHero nearby)💺 Admiral's Club, Delta Sky Club, USO Lounge

Getting There

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Inside the Terminal

Don't Want to Leave BNA Airport?

Premium Lounges at BNA

Nashville offers several comfortable lounges to escape the terminal bustle.

American Airlines Admirals Club

LocationConcourse C

AccessAdmirals Club members, First/Business class, or day pass

AmenitiesWi-Fi, snacks, beverages, showers

Cost$79 for day pass

Delta Sky Club

LocationAdjacent to Gate B3

AccessDelta Sky Club members, Amex Platinum

AmenitiesFull bar, hot food, workstations

CostMember-based

Entertainment and Comfort

Live music stages throughout the terminal

Free high-speed WiFi

Nursing rooms (Mamava pods)

Pet relief areas

Local art exhibitions

Multiple charging stations

Rest and Relaxation

BNA does not have dedicated nap pods. However, quiet corners can be found in Concourse D. For more comfort, the Hilton BNA Nashville Airport Terminal is directly connected to the terminal via a walkway.

Where to sleepDay-use & overnight

Day-use & overnight hotels in Nashville (Music City)For long or overnight layovers when sleep is the plan — many airport hotels sell rooms by the hour.Find hotels →

Explore the City

What Can You Do During a Nashville Layover?

10 experiences to discover

011.5 - 3 hours

Lower Broadway Honky-Tonks

Experience the world-famous neon lights and live country music venues like Tootsie's Orchid Lounge.

8 miles from airport

⏱ 15-20 minutes

🕒 10:00 AM - 3:00 AM

💡 Most bars don't have a cover charge, but bring cash to tip the musicians.

022 - 3 hours

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

The 'Smithsonian of Country Music,' featuring Elvis Presley’s gold Cadillac and historic costumes.

8.2 miles from airport

⏱ 20 minutes

🕒 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

💡 Check [Nashville travel reviews on TripAdvisor](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g-nashville-Vacations.html) for current ticket bundle deals.

031 - 1.5 hours

The Parthenon at Centennial Park

A full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, including a 42-foot statue of Athena.

11 miles from airport

⏱ 25 minutes

🕒 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Park open until 11 PM)

💡 Great for a scenic walk to stretch your legs after a long flight.

0445 minutes

John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

Offers the best panoramic views of the Nashville skyline over the Cumberland River.

8.5 miles from airport

⏱ 20 minutes

🕒 24/7

💡 Visit at sunset for the most photogenic views of the city.

051 hour

Ryman Auditorium Tour

Known as the 'Mother Church of Country Music,' this historic venue is a must-visit.

8.3 miles from airport

⏱ 20 minutes

🕒 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

💡 Book your tour in advance as they often sell out during peak travel seasons.

061 - 2 hours

Fifth + Broadway Shopping & Dining

A massive multi-level complex featuring local boutiques and the Assembly Food Hall.

8 miles from airport

⏱ 20 minutes

🕒 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM

💡 Try Prince’s Hot Chicken inside the food hall for an authentic taste of Nashville.

071 hour

Hattie B's Hot Chicken (Midtown)

The most famous spot for Nashville's signature spicy fried chicken.

9.5 miles from airport

⏱ 25 minutes

🕒 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

💡 The Midtown location often has long lines; try the 8th Ave S location for shorter waits.

082 - 3 hours

Grand Ole Opry (Opryland)

The show that made country music famous. Located near the Opry Mills mall.

8.5 miles from airport

⏱ 15 minutes

🕒 Tour times vary

💡 Opryland is closer to the airport than downtown, making it a great alternative if traffic is heavy.

091 hour

Tennessee State Capitol

A beautiful Greek Revival building sitting atop a hill overlooking downtown.

8.7 miles from airport

⏱ 22 minutes

🕒 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Mon-Fri)

💡 The grounds are free to walk even when the building is closed.

101 hour

Johnny Cash Museum

Dedicated to the life and music of the Man in Black.

8 miles from airport

⏱ 20 minutes

🕒 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

💡 It's small but very dense with artifacts; perfect for a quick cultural fix.

Viator selectionLive recommendations

View on Viator

Fits your layover4+ hours layover

Nashville VIP Style Private Tour with Local Singer-Songwriter

Duration

2 hours

+ 2h airport buffer

Layover fit

Good for 4–6 hour layovers

Needs 4h total

Admission

Check on Viator

What you'll see

Attraction stop (15 mins)

Attraction stop (20 mins)

History lesson and driving tour around the Becentennial Capitol Mall State Park, Farmers Market, 200 foot state map, World War II Memorial, ringing of the bells optional photo-op and bathroom break.

Attraction stop (15 mins)

An optional visit to Antique Archaeology (of American Pickers fame on the History Channel) and explore the shops/museum of Marathon Motor Works / take photo ops/ bathroom break

Attraction stop (15 mins)

+3 more stops

Ready to book for your Nashville (Music City) layover

Instant confirmation on many tours · Free cancellation available

Book on Viator

View on Viator

Fits your layover4+ hours layover

Walkin' Nashville - Music City Legends Tour

Duration

1h 40m

+ 2h airport buffer

Layover fit

Good for 4–6 hour layovers

Needs 3.7h total

Admission

What you'll see

Attraction stop (5 mins)

Tennessee's only 5-star hotel, built in 1910. Guests have included Charlie Chaplin, Enrico Caruso, JFK, Paul McCartney and Dolly Parton.

Attraction stop (5 mins)

F.W. Woolworth's, opened in 1913, was the site of Nashville's sit-ins, led by the legendary freedom rider and proponent of "good trouble," John Lewis.

Attraction stop (10 mins)

"Nashville's oldest shopping mall," built in 1902. We will visit The Peanut Shop, which opened in 1927.

Attraction stop (5 mins)

First opened in 1927 as Planter's Peanuts, this is one of the oldest surviving businesses in downtown Nashville. It's like stepping into a time capsule. Friendly, fun service and free samples!

+6 more stops

Ready to book for your Nashville (Music City) layover

Instant confirmation on many tours · Free cancellation available

Book on Viator

* Tours are scored against your layover length — availability and pricing confirmed on Viator.

Step by Step

Layover Itineraries

Want a personalized itinerary booked for you?

2-Hour Itinerary

The BNA Music Experience

0:00 - Deplane and follow signs to the central terminal area.

0:15 - Catch a live set at one of the four performance stages (C-concourse is popular).

0:45 - Grab a local draft beer at Tennessee Brew Works in the airport.

1:15 - Browse the BNA Shop for local artisan souvenirs.

1:45 - Return to your gate for boarding.

4-Hour Itinerary

Quick Broadway Blast

0:00 - Clear security and take a 15-minute Uber to Lower Broadway.

0:45 - Walk down Honky Tonk Highway and step into Tootsie’s or Robert’s Western World for one song.

1:30 - Grab lunch at the Assembly Food Hall (Fifth + Broadway).

2:30 - Take an Uber back to BNA.

3:00 - Re-clear security and head to your gate.

8-Hour Itinerary

Essential Music City Tour

0:00 - Exit BNA and head to the Country Music Hall of Fame (20-min ride).

0:30 - Spend 2 hours exploring the museum and Hatch Show Print.

2:30 - Walk 10 minutes to Lower Broadway for lunch and live music.

4:00 - Take a quick 10-minute ride to Centennial Park to see the Parthenon.

5:30 - Walk the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge for skyline photos.

6:30 - Head back to the airport via ride-share.

7:15 - Re-clear security and relax before your flight.

GetYourGuide selectionLive recommendations

* Suggestions load dynamically based on seasonal availability and ratings in Nashville (Music City).

Where to Eat

Where to Eat: Nashville's Iconic Flavors

Hattie B’s Hot Chicken

Nashville Hot Chicken$$Lower Broadway / Midtown

⭐ Must try: The 'Shut the Cluck Up' level (if you dare)

💡 Order online for pickup to skip the legendary queues.

Peg Leg Porker

Tennessee BBQ$$The Gulch

⭐ Must try: Dry-rubbed ribs

💡 It’s a local favorite, so go early before the ribs sell out.

Puckett's Grocery & Restaurant

Southern Comfort$$Downtown

⭐ Must try: Slow-smoked BBQ platter

💡 Live music starts at dinner, making it a great atmosphere for a layover meal.

The Pharmacy Burger Parlor

Burgers & Beer$$East Nashville

⭐ Must try: Farm Burger

💡 Enjoy the beer garden if the weather is nice.

Loveless Cafe

Southern Breakfast$$Hwy 100

⭐ Must try: Biscuits and peach preserves

💡 About 30 mins from BNA; only attempt if you have a 6+ hour layover.

Shop & Browse

Where to Shop in Nashville

Fifth + Broadway

Modern shopping with high-end brands and local Nashville boutiques.

8 miles

Opry Mills

Tennessee’s largest outlet shopping destination, very close to BNA.

8 miles

The Gulch

Trendy neighborhood with high-end fashion and the famous 'What Lifts You' wings mural.

9 miles

White's Mercantile

Modern general store owned by Holly Williams, perfect for unique gifts.

10 miles

Navigate

Getting Around Nashville

Transportation from BNA is straightforward. Taxis are available at the Ground Transportation Center with a flat rate of $30 to the downtown area. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are very popular and usually cost $20-$30. For a budget option, use the WeGo Public Transit Bus Route 18, which runs between BNA and the downtown Central Station for only $2. To better plan your arrival and departure, track your flight path on Borderly.

Good to Know

Nashville Layover Tips

U.S. Visa: Ensure you have an ESTA or required visa if leaving the airport on an international connection.

Luggage: BNA does not have lockers; use a service like Stasher in downtown Nashville.

Traffic: Nashville traffic can be heavy from 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM; allow extra travel time.

Currency: US Dollars are standard; credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.

Safety: Broadway is generally safe but stay aware of your surroundings at night.

Hydration: Nashville can be very humid in summer; carry water.

Live Music: You don't need to leave BNA to hear music; local bands play at the airport daily.

Community Discussions

Real Traveler Advice

TravelBug992 days ago

Does anyone know if immigration is fast at this airport during morning hours? We only have a 4 hour layover and want to see the main square...

AeroExplorer5 days ago

Just did this exact layover last week! A few tips: definitely take the express train instead of cab, it saves about 45 mins. Also make sure...

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Make Every Minute Count

Nashville Time Management

With BNA only 15-20 minutes from the heart of the city, even a 4-hour layover is technically enough to see Broadway. However, we recommend a minimum of 6 hours to comfortably clear security, enjoy a meal, and see a major attraction. Always factor in 30 minutes for security lines at BNA, especially during morning peaks.

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Flight Connections

Popular Routes from Nashville (BNA)

No outbound routes found in current data

N/A

Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 4 hours enough for a Nashville layover?

Yes, 4 hours is enough for a quick dash to Lower Broadway via ride-share, though you will only have about 1.5 hours in the city after accounting for travel and security.

Can I leave BNA airport during a layover?

Absolutely! BNA is very close to downtown, making it one of the best US airports for leaving during a layover.

What is there to do near BNA airport?

Nearby attractions include the Grand Ole Opry, Opry Mills Mall, and the Gaylord Opryland Resort Gardens, all within a 15-minute drive.

Do I need a visa for a Nashville layover?

If you are not a U.S. citizen or green card holder, you generally need a visa or an ESTA to exit the airport, even for a few hours.

How far is Nashville city center from the airport?

Downtown Nashville is approximately 8 miles from BNA airport, a drive that typically takes 15 to 20 minutes.

What lounge access is available at BNA?

BNA features an American Airlines Admirals Club (Concourse C), a Delta Sky Club (Concourse B), and a USO Lounge for military members.

Can I sleep at BNA airport during a layover?

Sleeping is permitted in common areas, but for comfort, the Hilton BNA Nashville Airport Terminal is the best on-site option.

Does BNA have luggage storage?

No, BNA does not have luggage lockers due to security regulations. You must use third-party storage services in the city.

What can you do in Nashville (Music City) with 2 Hours between flights?

No Enjoy live music at the airport stages, browse local boutiques, or relax in a lounge.

Is 2 Hours enough time to leave the airport in Nashville (Music City)?

What can you do in Nashville (Music City) with 4 Hours between flights?

Yes (Tight) Quick Uber to Lower Broadway for a honky-tonk visit and a BBQ lunch.

Is 4 Hours enough time to leave the airport in Nashville (Music City)?

Yes (Tight)

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