Romantic Weekend Getaway on a Budget: Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville, Tennessee, isn’t just for country music fans—it's an excellent destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway filled with live music, delicious food, and Southern charm, all on a budget. From scenic river walks to cozy restaurants, Nashville has something special for couples wanting a memorable weekend without breaking the bank.

Why Nashville is Perfect for a Budget Romantic Getaway

Nashville combines vibrant nightlife, rich history, and stunning natural surroundings. With numerous free or low-cost activities, such as live music, scenic parks, and affordable local eateries, this city is perfect for couples looking for romance, entertainment, and value.

Sample Weekend Itinerary for Nashville

Day 1: Music, History, and Nightlife

Morning: Explore Centennial Park (Free) Start your trip with a peaceful morning walk through Centennial Park, home to the iconic Parthenon replica. Take a stroll around Lake Watauga and enjoy the beautiful gardens.
Lunch: Hattie B's Hot Chicken (Budget-Friendly) Nashville is known for its hot chicken, and Hattie B’s is a must-try. With locations across the city, it offers a budget-friendly way to sample Nashville’s culinary culture.
Afternoon: Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame ($27 per person, or Free on Tennessee Tuesdays) If you’re visiting on the first Tuesday of the month, enjoy free admission to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Otherwise, explore the exhibits and dive into Nashville’s music history.
Dinner: Peg Leg Porker (Mid-Range) Enjoy some mouth-watering BBQ at Peg Leg Porker, located in The Gulch. The prices are reasonable, and the food is authentically Southern.
Evening: Free Live Music on Broadway (Free) End the night strolling down Broadway, where you’ll find free live music in many of the bars and honky-tonks. It’s the heart of Nashville’s music scene, and you won’t have to spend much to experience it.

Day 2: Nature and Culture

Morning: Radnor Lake State Park Hike (Free) Start your morning with a peaceful hike through Radnor Lake State Park. It’s a beautiful spot for nature lovers, and the park offers trails perfect for a romantic escape.
Lunch: Arnold’s Country Kitchen (Budget-Friendly) For a traditional “meat-and-three” Southern meal, head to Arnold’s Country Kitchen. This local favorite offers hearty, affordable meals with Southern hospitality.
Afternoon: Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery ($28 per person) Tour the historic Belle Meade plantation and enjoy a complimentary wine tasting. It's a great way to combine history with a touch of luxury.
Dinner: The Stillery (Mid-Range) Located in downtown Nashville, The Stillery offers delicious wood-fired pizzas and cocktails in a cozy, romantic atmosphere.
Evening: Take a Stroll along the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge (Free) Enjoy a stunning view of the Nashville skyline and the Cumberland River with a romantic evening walk across this iconic pedestrian bridge.

Where to Stay in Nashville on a Budget

Budget Accommodations:

The Russell This boutique hotel in East Nashville is budget-friendly, trendy, and located close to some of the city’s best spots. Rooms start around $130 per night, depending on the season.
Hyatt House Nashville Downtown/SoBro If you’re looking for affordable luxury, this hotel offers modern rooms in a central location near the Music City Center, with prices starting around $150 per night.

Mid-Range Accommodations:

The 404 Hotel Located in the hip Gulch neighborhood, The 404 Hotel offers stylish, comfortable rooms at mid-range prices starting at around $200 per night. Its central location is perfect for walking to restaurants and attractions.
Urban Cowboy For couples looking for something quirky and romantic, Urban Cowboy in East Nashville offers uniquely designed suites and a fun, laid-back vibe, starting at around $250 per night.

Must-Try Restaurants in Nashville for Every Budget

Budget-Friendly Options:

Mas Tacos Por Favor A beloved taco joint in East Nashville where you can grab delicious, authentic tacos for under $5 each.
Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack Another classic for hot chicken lovers, with meals starting under $10.

Mid-Range Options:

The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden Famous for its craft burgers and house-made sodas, The Pharmacy is a great spot for a casual yet delicious date.
Acme Feed & Seed Located right on Broadway, Acme offers a rooftop view of the city, along with Southern food and live music at affordable prices.

High-End Options:

Husk Nashville A popular spot for a fine dining experience featuring local Southern ingredients. It’s perfect for a splurge meal to end your weekend.
The Catbird Seat This chef-driven tasting menu experience is pricier but an unforgettable treat for food-loving couples.

Must-Try Events and Festivals in Nashville

CMA Music Festival (June) If you and your partner are country music fans, visiting Nashville in June for the CMA Music Festival is a must. This event offers free concerts along the riverfront, as well as ticketed events for more exclusive performances.
Live on the Green (August/September) A free outdoor music festival held in Public Square Park, featuring both local and national acts. It’s a great way to enjoy live music for free.
Music City Midnight (New Year’s Eve) If you’re visiting during the holidays, Nashville’s New Year’s Eve celebration, Music City Midnight, is a fantastic free event that includes live performances and fireworks.

SimpleSmarties Travel Pro Tips for Nashville

Take Advantage of Free Music: Nashville is known for its live music scene, and you don’t have to spend a dime to enjoy it. Many bars and venues along Broadway, as well as free festivals and events, offer live music year-round.
Free Tours: Keep an eye on free walking tours that are occasionally offered downtown. These are tip-based, so you can control how much you spend.
Stay Just Outside the City: Opting for accommodations outside of downtown, such as in East Nashville or The Gulch, will often save you money without sacrificing the quality of your stay. You’ll still be within easy reach of the main attractions.
Use Rideshare Wisely: While Nashville is a walkable city, you’ll sometimes need to use rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft. To save money, use the “pool” option or plan your trips during non-peak hours.
Free Museum Days: Take advantage of free admission days or reduced entry fees at some of Nashville’s best museums, including the Frist Art Museum, which offers free admission for children under 18.

Nashville is an excellent destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway without overspending. With its free attractions, budget-friendly restaurants, and affordable accommodations, you can enjoy an unforgettable weekend filled with music, culture, and Southern charm. So pack your bags and get ready to experience all that Nashville has to offer—romance and fun on a budget!