Spring in Nashville! Explore Music City in Full Bloom

When winter's cold weather makes way for sunnier skies, Nashville springs to life with a flurry of events and its famous live performances start ramping up. With some honky-tonks hosting musicians around the clock, visiting Nashville in spring is the best way to shake the cobwebs off after bundling up indoors during the colder months.

Springtime is the sweet spot for visiting Nashville because this period offers the perfect mix of pleasant weather and thinner crowds compared to summer. You will also be able to enjoy some amazing events if you choose to visit Nashville in spring.

There is no better time than now to plan your perfect spring adventure in Nashville. We've laid out all the essentials, from weather insights to a curated list of the season's must-attend events and festivals. Get ready to experience Nashville in full bloom!

Visiting Nashville in spring

It goes without saying that Music City is an amazing place to visit, no matter what time of the year. There is always something going on, and you will likely catch a gig or two no matter which month you visit. However, if you are looking for great deals and fewer crowds, spring is one of the best times to visit.

The mild climate and the likeliness of blue skies in the spring make it one of the best times to enjoy a stroll through the city's lively neighborhoods, let your hair down and enjoy the outdoor festivals, and listen to the open-air concerts that seem to spring up in every corner.

What makes Nashville particularly special during spring is the city's deep-rooted musical traditions, which seem to come alive along with the season's fresh beginnings, and you won't be short of live events to enjoy if you visit Nashville in spring, coupled with the ease of finding lodging options.

You are in luck if you'd like to enjoy outdoor activities in Nashville if you visit in spring. The city is home to beautiful parks, like Centennial Park with its full-scale Parthenon replica, and the Cumberland River, which offers opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding.

Looking to make a foodie road trip? From March to May is also a great time to enjoy the delicious Southern cuisine on offer. Farmers markets re-emerge, and the city's food festivals, the restaurants start putting their tables outside and rooftop bars start opening up for the season.

As you might expect, spring does bring some rainfall, but not to worry! Nashville is home to some amazing museums you can take shelter in and spend a great afternoon despite the rain. From Johnny Cash Museum to Lane Motor Museum, you will find plenty of indoor places to explore in Nashville.

Spring weather in Nashville

As Nashville shakes off the chill of winter, you will start seeing the first signs of spring in March. Although the early weeks might still have a few chilly nights, with temperatures occasionally dipping below freezing, the overall trend is warming up.

Nighttime lows average around 39.0 degrees Fahrenheit so it is still a good idea to pack up warm and sneak in a few packets of hot cocoa in your bag to enjoy in the evening.

The transition from winter means you might see a few spring rains, about twice a week in March. But hang in there; by the end of the month, daytime highs climb over 65 degrees Fahrenheit, setting the stage for perfect outdoor hangout weather!

By the time April rolls around, you can expect similar rain conditions to March. This is also when you might see some dramatic spring thunderstorms. Daily highs comfortably exceed 70 degrees, and the evenings are just right, cooling down to about 50 degrees. It's the perfect weather for exploring Nashville's streets and parks.

When May arrives, you know spring is in full bloom. Daily highs will average around 78 degrees, and you might even enjoy high 80s on some rare days. You can expect lows averaging over 60 degrees during nighttime in the latter part of the month.

May is our wettest month (so pack an umbrella!), with an average of 12 rainy days, but it's all part of the season's charm, keeping Nashville green and lush. This is the perfect time to explore the city's many indoor museums.

Spring festivals and live events in Nashville

Spring is one of the busiest seasons in Nashville when it comes to festivals and events. From the strum of guitars to the inviting smells of street food, the city itself becomes a stage, showcasing the best of what Music City has to offer.

So, dust off your boots and book the days on your calendar! Whether you're looking for foodie events or a fan of country, rock, blues, or something in between, spring in Nashville has something for everyone.

March events in Nashville

• Music City Irish Fest: This St Patrick's Day celebration embraces Irish culture with music, dance, and food in the heart of Nashville, offering an immersive experience into Ireland's rich traditions and community spirit. Just remember to wear something green!
• Nashville Elvis Festival: A tribute to the King of Rock 'n' Roll, this festival features live performances, Elvis impersonator contests, and memorabilia displays, attracting fans from all over to celebrate Elvis Presley's legacy in Nashville.
• Tennessee Flavors: Hosted at Nashville State Community College, this event showcases the best of Tennessee's culinary scene, offering tastings from top restaurants, wineries, and breweries to support local culinary arts education.

April events in Nashville

• Tin Pan South: The world's largest songwriter festival offers a unique opportunity to hear songwriters of all genres share the stories behind their hits and perform them live in various venues around Nashville.
• Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival: Celebrating Japanese culture and the beauty of spring, this festival features traditional music, dance, martial arts demonstrations, and a cherry blossom walk through Nashville.
• East Nashville Beer Festival: Held in East Nashville's vibrant community, this festival celebrates craft beer culture with a selection of local and regional breweries, offering tastings alongside food vendors and live music.
• St Jude Rock N Roll Nashville: This marathon and half-marathon event combines running with live music for an unforgettable experience, benefiting St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, with bands playing along the course and a concert finale.
• Nashville Comedy Festival:Featuring a lineup of nationally renowned comedians performing in various venues across Nashville, this festival promises laughter-filled nights with stand-up performances, improv, and comedic acts.
• Rites of Spring Music Festival: Held at Vanderbilt University, this festival brings together popular acts from diverse genres for a weekend of live music and entertainment, signaling the start of spring in Nashville.

May events in Nashville

• Musicians Corner: A series of free spring concerts in Centennial Park, offering a family-friendly environment where emerging and established artists perform, complemented by food trucks, artisan vendors, and kids' activities.
• Iroquois Steeplechase: A premier spring event in Nashville since 1941, this annual horse race at Percy Warner Park attracts thousands of spectators for a day of racing, fashion, and socializing, benefiting local charities.
• K-Love Fan Awards Weekend: A celebration of Christian music, this event features awards, live performances, and fan interactions with top Christian artists, held in Nashville to inspire and entertain.
• Spring Tennessee Craft Fair: Located in Nashville's Centennial Park, this fair showcases the work of Tennessee's finest craft artists, offering a chance to purchase unique handmade items and enjoy demonstrations and children's activities.

Spring break in Nashville

If you aren't put off by the crowds, spring break is one of the liveliest times to visit Nashville other than the peak tourism season in summer.

Whether you are a Bluegrass or Blues fan looking for some of the best concerts or simply looking to take advantage of the nice weather to explore the city during your time off, you will be amazed by the variety of things you can do in Nashville during spring break.

The city's live music scene is in full swing during spring break, with performances ranging from country and blues to rock and pop across famous venues like the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium.

The famous bars on Broadway are always popular and busy, but the Honky-Tonks of Lower Broadway truly come to life during this period. If you are looking for a good party, you will find one (or two!) here and let your hair down.

One important thing to note if you are visiting Nashville during spring break, though, the accommodation prices can be higher than usual during this period due to increased demand. We highly recommend booking both your lodging and tickets for live events ahead of time.

Things to see in Nashville in spring

Nashville is famously home to many indoor and outdoor attractions, so you will find plenty of places to explore and things to see, whether you are enjoying a sunny spring day or having a bit of rain. To make your planning easy, we have listed some of the best things to see in Nashville in spring below.

Outdoor places to visit in Nashville in spring

1. Centennial Park - Centennial Park, home to the iconic Parthenon replica, is a sprawling urban oasis in Nashville offering scenic walking trails, beautiful landscaping, and a tranquil lake.
2. Cumberland Park - Nestled along the riverbank, Cumberland Park is an innovative play space that offers families and children a unique outdoor experience with its interactive splash pad, climbing walls, and stunning views of the Nashville skyline.
3. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens - Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is a historical mansion set amidst 55 acres of breathtaking botanical gardens, featuring art galleries, seasonal festivals, and thematic garden displays. It's a must-visit for those who appreciate art, horticulture, and the serene beauty of nature.
4. Nashville Zoo at Grassmere - The Nashville Zoo at Grassmere invites visitors on a global wildlife adventure, featuring a diverse collection of animals, interactive exhibits, and conservation programs. It's a fun and educational destination for animal lovers of all ages.
5. Riverfront Park - Riverfront Park, located on the banks of the Cumberland River, is a vibrant urban space known for its scenic walking paths, outdoor concerts, and access to the river.
6. Radnor Lake State Park - Radnor Lake State Park is a natural sanctuary offering serene lake views, abundant wildlife, and miles of wooded trails for hiking and bird watching. This protected area is a peaceful escape for nature enthusiasts.
7. Nissan Stadium - The home of the Tennessee Titans NFL team hosts a variety of other events, including college football games, concerts, and festivals. With its impressive seating capacity and stunning views of the Nashville skyline, it offers an electrifying atmosphere for sports fans.

Indoor places to visit in Nashville in spring

1. Johnny Cash Museum - This museum is a dedicated space celebrating the life and music of the Man in Black, featuring a comprehensive collection of artifacts, personal memorabilia, and interactive exhibits.
2. Frist Art Museum - The Frist Art Museum, housed in a stunning art deco building, showcases a diverse array of visual art from local, national, and international artists across various mediums.
3. Lane Motor Museum - Lane Motor Museum stands out for its unique collection of European automobiles, including classic, rare, and unconventional vehicles, making it a fascinating destination for car enthusiasts and history buffs.
4. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum - The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a landmark institution in Nashville, offering an extensive exploration of country music's history through artifacts, photographs, and multimedia displays.
5. Nashville Farmers Market - This farmers market is a vibrant marketplace featuring a wide variety of local produce, artisanal foods, and crafts, alongside a global selection of prepared cuisines. Keep in mind that some sections might be exposed to the elements.
6. Grand Ole Opry - The Grand Ole Opry is the storied heart of Nashville's music scene, known as the country's most famous stage, where legends and contemporary stars perform live broadcasts.
7. Ryman Auditorium - Ryman Auditorium, famously known as the "Mother Church of Country Music," is an iconic venue offering a deeply resonant music experience with its rich acoustics and historic ambiance. It hosts a wide array of concerts and events.

Things you'll miss out on if you visit Nashville in spring

Music City shakes the cobwebs off with its many spring events, but it gets even busier in summer. In these warmer months, outdoor concerts and music festivals ramp up as you might expect, taking advantage of the sunny weather.

If you visit in spring, you will miss out on the famous CMA Music Festival, typically held in June. This is one of the biggest county music events in the country and if you love this genre, you might want to plan your trip around this famous event in summer.

Between June and August, you will also be able to enjoy outdoor dining and Nashville's rooftop bars without having to worry about weather changes.

You might not immediately think of fall foliage when planning a visit to Nashville, but the city and its surrounding countryside paint a breathtaking picture in shades of orange, red, and yellow.

Visiting between March and May would also mean that you won't be able to participate in the lovely Nashville Oktoberfest, which celebrates the season with music, food, and craft beer.

Traveling with little ones? You might want to opt for winter instead of a spring visit because the winter season transforms Nashville into a festive wonderland featuring holiday lights, Christmas markets, and New Year's Eve celebrations.

Winter is also a great time to enjoy Nashville's indoor attractions, like its museums and cozy music venues, without the crowds of peak tourist seasons.

If you'd like to learn more about what you can enjoy during the other seasons, here is our detailed guide on the best time to visit Nashville.

Tips for making the most of your spring trip to Nashville

If you are ready to pack your bags and hop in the car, there is one thing left to do, and that is to know what to keep in mind while preparing for a visit to Nashville in spring. With the possibility of rain and sun at the same time, these tips will make your planning easier:

• Spring weather in Nashville means warm days and cooler evenings. While we wouldn't suggest packing your entire wardrobe just to be ready, it is a good idea to bring some layers with you. Don't forget to bring light jackets, cardigans, and comfortable shoes for walking.
• You might think the sun won't affect you since it isn't summer yet, but it is important to always stay hydrated. If you are getting ready to rock out the festivals, make sure to wear sunscreen and bring sunglasses as well as a hat.
• There is no denying it; spring showers are a part of the Nashville experience. Keep a compact umbrella or a lightweight rain jacket handy during your travels.
• If you're driving in Nashville during spring, be mindful of potentially slick roads during rainy days. Also, with many spring events happening around the city, anticipate occasional traffic delays and road closures.
• Spring is a popular time to visit Nashville, so it is a good idea to book your must-see attractions and experiences in advance. You wouldn't want to see a sold-out sign for your favorite country singer's gig or miss out on a spot on one of the famous culinary tours of the city.
• Take advantage of the mild spring weather to explore the natural beauty surrounding Nashville. The city is a gateway to stunning state parks and natural reserves perfect for hiking, picnicking, and photography. For example, a road trip to Gatlinburg will take you to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park where you can enjoy the annual Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage in May. You can find more about the scenic road trip from Nashville to Gatlinburg in our detailed guide.
• Asheville and Blue Ridge Parkway are especially beautiful in spring with colorful blossoms painting the area in magical hues. You can find inspiration and more information in our guide on the road trip from Nashville to Asheville.