Music City Food, Drink, Sightseeing Walking Tour along Broadway

Explore downtown Nashville with the Music City Food, Drink, Sightseeing Walking Tour along Broadway. Priced at $108.16 per person, this 3-hour guided walk offers a flavorful glimpse into Nashville’s vibrant culture, history, and music heritage. The tour departs from 300 Broadway at 10:30 am, starting in the heart of the lively lower Broadway district, and ends just a few blocks away at Printers Alley. We like how the tour combines tastings of iconic Nashville foods—including smoked pork, barbecue, and Nashville Hot Chicken—with fascinating stories about the city.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy walking tours that blend culinary experiences with cultural education. It’s suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, and features plenty of food to serve as a lunch. While most of the walk is easy, note that there are stairs, inclines, and cobblestone sidewalks to navigate. The tour operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately for weather conditions. The group size is capped at 30 travelers, ensuring an engaging atmosphere.

Key Points

• 3-hour guided walking tour exploring Nashville’s historic Broadway district and riverfront
• Includes tastings of local foods such as smoked pork, barbecue, seafood, and Southern sweets
• Enjoy a specialty cocktail and possibly listen to live music during the walk
• Learn about Nashville’s music history and notable landmarks like the Ryman Auditorium and Country Music Hall of Fame
• Begin at 10:30 am from 300 Broadway, ending near Printers Alley
• Operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly

Starting Point and Tour Duration

The tour begins at 300 Broadway in downtown Nashville, a prime location within the bustling honky-tonk district. The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, covering about 1.2 miles of walking. This timing makes it perfect for a morning activity, leaving plenty of time to explore other parts of Nashville afterward. The start time of 10:30 am is convenient for those arriving in the city or staying nearby, and the tour concludes just a few blocks from the starting point, at Printers Alley.

What’s Included in the Tour

Participants enjoy a combination of food tastings, beverages, and cultural insights, all led by a local guide. The menu features several Southern sweets at a renowned confectionery, which has been run by a family with four generations of tradition. Expect to sample smoked pork, seafood, barbecue, and Nashville Hot Chicken, with enough food to double as a filling lunch.

Along With food, the tour offers a specialty cocktail—perhaps a local favorite—and opportunities to hear live music at some stops. The guide provides fascinating stories about the history of Nashville’s music scene, covering everything from famous country stars to pivotal events that shaped the city. This blend of food, drink, and storytelling keeps the tour lively and informative.

Iconic Nashville Landmarks and Neighborhoods

While sampling, the tour passes by several Nashville icons. Stops include Ryman Auditorium, known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” and the Country Music Hall of Fame, where visitors gain context about Nashville’s musical roots. The walk also takes in Printer’s Alley, a historic nightlife district, and the Riverfront, offering scenic views and photo opportunities.

Participants also pass Honky Tonks, lively bars and live-music venues that make Nashville famous. The guide shares stories about the city’s evolution from its early days to the vibrant music and food hub it is today, enriching the sightseeing experience beyond just food stops.

The Food and Drink Experience

The tour’s food stops are carefully selected to highlight local specialties. For example, Nashville Hot Chicken—a spicy fried chicken dish—is featured at one stop, giving a true taste of Nashville’s culinary scene. The Southern sweets at the confectionery are also a highlight, made by a family renowned enough to be featured in Southern Living and even visited by the White House.

Craft cocktails are included at one or more stops, adding a fun twist to the tasting experience. The guide’s recommendations for local restaurants and bars also help visitors plan the rest of their stay.

Navigating Nashville’s Historic Streets and Riverfront

As the walk unfolds, the guide leads travelers through Nashville’s historic streets and along the riverfront, where scenic views complement the city’s lively atmosphere. The streets feature cobblestone sidewalks and some inclines, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Participants get a sense of Nashville’s architectural and cultural history through storytelling and visual cues.

This route offers a balanced pace, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the food and learn about the significance of each location. The tour’s length and route are designed to maximize sightseeing and tastings without feeling rushed.

The Guide’s Expertise and Style

Feedback highlights guides like Scott and Kristi as being knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging. They share interesting facts about Nashville’s music history, local food traditions, and landmark stories. The guides’ personalities make the experience feel relaxed and personalized, helping participants feel like they’re exploring Nashville with a local friend.

Travelers appreciate guides who blend storytelling with practical tips for the city’s best restaurants and attractions. The overall tone is warm and approachable, making the tour enjoyable for all ages.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

While the walking is generally easy, the tour involves some stairs, inclines, and cobblestone sidewalks. Participants should have a moderate physical fitness level and wear comfortable shoes. The tour operates rain or shine, so weather-appropriate attire is advised.

The tour is designed for groups no larger than 30 travelers, fostering an intimate environment where questions and interactions are encouraged.

Value for Money and Booking Information

At $108.16 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience that combines food, drinks, sightseeing, and cultural stories. Most reviews note excellent value for the price, especially considering the amount of food and insights provided. Bookings are made about 28 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

The tour is non-refundable if canceled less than 24 hours prior, but offers free cancellation if done earlier, giving flexibility for changing plans.

Final Thoughts on the Nashville Walking Food Tour

This tour stands out for its blend of culinary delights and Nashville’s rich music and cultural history. The local guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, making the experience both educational and fun. The food stops feature iconic Nashville dishes, and the scenic route along the riverfront adds visual appeal.

While the walk involves some uneven surfaces and inclines, it remains accessible for most physically able participants. The timing and pacing allow for a relaxed exploration, with enough tastings to serve as a substantial meal.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded introduction to Nashville, combining tastes, sights, and stories, this tour offers great value and a memorable experience. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy food-focused walking tours with a cultural twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is primarily designed for adults aged 21 and over, due to the inclusion of alcoholic beverages.

How much food is included?
The tastings are enough for a full lunch, including Southern sweets, smoked pork, seafood, and barbecue.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, along with weather-appropriate clothing since the tour operates rain or shine.

Are there any stairs or difficult terrain?
Yes, there are stairs, inclines, and cobblestone sidewalks, so participants should have a moderate fitness level.

Can the tour be canceled?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

What landmarks will I see?
Stops include Ryman Auditorium, Country Music Hall of Fame, Printer’s Alley, and views along the riverfront.

Is the guide knowledgeable about Nashville’s history?
Absolutely, guides like Scott and Kristi are commended for their interesting stories and local expertise.

What’s the starting point and ending point?
The tour begins at 300 Broadway and concludes near Printers Alley.

How do I book this tour?
The tour is available on Viator, with bookings typically made around 28 days in advance.

Is this tour good value for the price?
Yes, considering the food, drinks, sightseeing, and storytelling, most reviews find it worth every penny.