Just as you plan every other aspect of your life around maximizing your productivity, planning a vacation (which is an investment in yourself) should be equally important. You obviously won’t want to spend hours online comparing a plethora of hotel reviews or spend all night searching for a cheap flight only to land up with the wrong destination. So, to help you get started, here is an article filled with “best time to vacation in nashville tn 2017” suggestions!
There are two sides to Nashville. One is country music and the other is more modern. The city attracts over 10 million visitors a year, so even though it’s known for its loud honky-tonk bars and live music you’ll find gorgeous hotels, exciting shopping, and delicious dining.You will like to know about the best time to vacation in nashville tn and need to read this article from the start.
Traveling to Nashville? Proprietors of the Nashville Visitor Center are glad you’re booking a trip. We’re also glad you found our website and wanted to know the best time to vacation in Nashville, Tennessee.
Traveling to Nashville? Proprietors of the Nashville Visitor Center are glad you’re booking a trip. We’re also glad you found our website and wanted to know the best time to vacation in Nashville, Tennessee.
The best time to visit Nashville, Tennessee is from April to October.
The weather has been known to be unpredictable in the spring and fall months. While the city may see some rain during these seasons, temperatures are usually mild and pleasant. The hottest months are July and August, when average highs range from 82-88 degrees Fahrenheit (28-31 degrees Celsius).
Although it can be rainy at times, spring and fall offer more daylight hours than summer, so you’ll have more time to enjoy your trip. In spring, you can take advantage of the blooming flowers and other signs of renewal around town while they’re still fresh. In fall, there is less traffic on the roads because many people are back at work or school again. This means that you’ll have less waiting time in lines at attractions like the Grand Ole Opry or Country Music Hall of Fame Museum.
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Nashville is a city with a vibrant nightlife, great food, amazing attractions, plenty of events, and things to see and do all year round. But, as with any travel destination, there are some times of the year that are better suited for travelers than others. Thanks to the smaller crowds, more moderate temperatures, and cheaper airfare, most will find spring and fall suit their needs best. Of course, there are other things to consider when planning your visit to Music City. Read on to decide when you should go.
Weather
As with much of the American South, Nashville is known for its long, hot and humid summers. Those conditions can make the city an uncomfortable place to visit for unsuspecting travelers, who are often caught off guard by the heat. If consistently high temperatures and muggy weather doesn’t sound all that appealing, avoid visiting between mid-May and mid-September, as summer tends to arrive early and stay late.
That said, spring and fall are two seasons that feature warm days and cooler nights, with less humidity as well. Spring tends to arrive on the scene in March and runs into mid-May, while the fall weather takes hold in late-September and continues into early-December. During those times of the year the Nashville weather is usually very pleasant and comfortable, although it is important to point out that March through May can be quite rainy, while the autumn tends to be a bit drier.1
Winter in Nashville can be surprisingly cold at times, with temperatures often hovering around freezing. Snow and ice are rarities however, so even though the mercury may drop, there are seldom any challenges to travel throughout the city or the surrounding area.
Crowds
Summer is definitely the busiest time for travelers to visit Nashville. During the months of June, July, and August, the local hotels, restaurants, shops, and other attractions can get quite busy, with the city’s iconic honky tonks often packed to the brim. If avoiding the crowds is your goal, then don’t schedule your visit between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
During the winter crowds thin out due to cold temperatures. With the exception of the holiday season, mid-December through late-February finds the city much less crowded. This makes it a good time to visit, provided you don’t mind dealing with chillier conditions. The cold can limit access to some outdoor events, however, so keep that in mind when scheduling.
The shoulder seasons of spring and fall offer a nice blend of smaller crowds and good weather. From March to mid-May and mid-September through November, the city is busy, but not overrun with travelers. Those times of the year often make for a good time to visit for those who can squeeze in an off-season getaway.
January
During the month of January the average high temperature in Nashville is roughly 47 degrees F, while the average low falls to 28 degrees F. Precipitation, which usually comes in the form of rainfall, is about 3.7 inches, although it does snow from time to time. The city is quite busy at the beginning of the month, in part because of holiday celebrations and a massive New Year’s Eve party downtown, but by late January things tend to quiet down, leaving hotels, restaurants, and bars a lot less crowded.
Events to Check Out:
- The Battle of New Orleans Festival at the Hermitage celebrates this important part of American history involving former U.S. President Andrew Jackson.
- The Nashville Auto Fest draws in car enthusiasts from across the country.
- The Nashville Boat Show is one of the biggest in the region and is a lot of fun for serious shoppers and casual boating fans alike.
February
February is a quiet month by Nashville standards, with fewer visitors making it easier to navigate the city. Temperatures range from an average high of 52 degrees F to a low of 32 degrees F, although persistent humidity can make it feel cooler than that. Precipitation averages just under four inches for the month, with some chances of snow and ice on colder days. Those types of storms are few and far between however, generally making travel easy.
Events to Check Out:
- Nashville’s Antique and Garden Show showcases displays from more than 150 vendors.
- Sample the culinary delights of East Nashville at that neighborhood’s annual Restaurant Week.
March
Spring arrives in Nashville in style with warmer temperatures (average highs are 61 degrees F and lows are 39 degrees F). The city sees more than four inches of rainfall during March, but the longer days also mean more sunshine. While still a relatively quiet time, the number of visitors begins to pick up as northerners looking for a little warmth start to head south. Still, availability at hotels and restaurants continues to remain high, making it easy to book a stay.
Events to Check Out:
- The Nashville Home and Garden Show, which shows off the latest accessories, decorations, and furnishings for your yard.
- Catch the largest gathering of songwriters in the U.S. at Tin Pan South, which sees more than 100 artists perform at 10 different Nashville venues.
- Tennessee Flavors is a one-night only sampling of the best local foods, hosted annually by Nashville State Community College.
April
With day-time temperatures creeping into the low 70s and overnight lows in the upper 40s, April is a very pleasant month in Nashville. As a result, travelers begin to flock to the city, looking to take advantage of everything the city has to offer before the arrival of the summer rush and hotter conditions. Hotels and restaurants begin to get a little busier , although crowds remain relatively light and manageable. Rain showers are not unusual, but spring is in full effect with life returning to the city.
Events to Check Out:
- The East Nashville Beer Festival introduces visitors and locals alike to some of the best breweries that the city has to offer. Live music is of course an important part of the festivities.
- The Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates the arrival of the cherry blossoms.
- Nashville Fashion Week puts the spotlight on the latest trends and highlights designers with Middle Tennessee roots.
- Those looking to get in a good workout while visiting Nashville can take part in the Rock ‘n’ Roll Half- and Full-Marathon.
May
During May, temperatures generally range from an average low of 57 degrees F to an average high of 78 degrees F, making it a very pleasant time to visit. That said, May is also the rainiest month of the year, with average precipitation reaching as much as 5.5 inches. Early in the month the crowds remain manageable, but later things begin to pick up noticeably. The busy high season hasn’t quite started yet, but it can get more challenging — and expensive – to book a hotel room.
Events to Check Out:
- The Goodguys Nashville Nationals puts some of the most impressive custom cars and trucks on display, bringing in gear heads from across the U.S.
- The annual Musicians Corner music events kick off in Centennial Park.
- Sample the city’s best food trucks during Nashville Street Food Month.
June
By June, Nashville’s spring is quickly becoming a distant memory as the city’s infamous heat and humidity begins to build. High temperatures climb into the upper-80s, while the lows rarely drop below 65 degrees F at night and there’s an average rainfall of four inches. With the summer travel season now in full swing, hotels are booked up weeks in advance and prices start to climb.
Events to Check Out:
- CMA Fest and the CMT Awards are two of the biggest country music events of the year and they both take place during the month of June.
- A Taste of Music City is an event that encapsulates all of the things that visitors love about Nashville — food, drinks, and music.
- The Iroquois Steeplechase is an annual horse racing event that draws 25,000+ people.
July
Heat and humidity are the norm in Nashville during the heart of summer, so expect long, hot, muggy days if you visit during July. Summer travel season in in full swing and it can be tough to book accommodations and prices skyrocket. If July is your target date to visit, get your reservations in early.
Events to Check Out:
- The Let Freedom Sing July 4th Celebration offers one of the biggest fireworks display found anywhere in the U.S.
- Check out the Music City Hot Chicken Festival to taste a Nashville classic.
- If you’d rather sample the local beers then visit the Music City Brewers Festival.
August
Summer continues unabated in Nashville, with average temperatures ranging as high as 89 degrees F and dropping to 68 degrees F. It isn’t the heat that you’ll need to be wary of however, as the ongoing humidity can make it feel much warmer than those temperatures would indicate. August is one of the driest months in Nashville however, so expect plenty of sunshine and clear skies. The summer crowds continue until late into the month but start to thin out as the school year starts.
Events to Check Out:
- The Tomato Art Festival puts the quirky and fun East Nashville scene front and center, embracing Nashville’s more eccentric side.
- Proving that Nashville isn’t just about live music, Shakespeare in the Park gives the Bard himself a moment to shine too.
September
The Nashville humidity beings to break at long last. The days are still plenty warm, but not unbearably so, while the nights are extremely comfortable. Precipitation remains relatively low and the number of visitors remains high through the Labor Day Weekend, but begins to fade off fairly quickly afterwards. That means increased availability in hotels, restaurants, and clubs.
Events to Check Out:
- If you still haven’t gotten your fill of music in Nashville, the Americanafest brings together some of the most well known folk, blues, and country artists from the past 50 years.
- Whiskey is serious business in Tennessee and the Nashville Whiskey Fest celebrates that heritage every year in September.
- Visit the Tennessee State Fair for a variety of activities, including live bands, livestock exhibitions, games, thrill rides, and much more.
- The Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival also takes place just down the road in Manchester, TN.
- The annual Nashville Pride Festival happens this month.
October
October is a wonderful time to be in Nashville. The temperatures are mild (average highs of 72 degrees F and lows of 49 degrees F) and it’s the driest month of the year. Crowds tend to be moderately light during this time of year, with hotels and restaurants fairly quiet and open. If there is one month to choose to come to Nashville, this just might be the one.
Events to Check Out:
- Nashville’s historic and trendy Germantown area comes alive with Oktoberfest celebrations, featuring food, beer, and music.
- The Southern Festival of Books is a place for writers and readers to gather to celebrate the art of the written word.
- Attend the Jack Daniel’s Invitational World Championship Barbecue event for some world-class barbecue.
- Enjoy cold brews and wines at the Tennessee Beer and Wine Festival.
- With the Grand Ole Opry a happy birthday with its annual Birthday Bash.
November
As the crisp, cooler air arrives in Nashville the crowds begin to dwindle and fade away. The city is once again fairly quiet — at least by Nashville standards —throughout November, making it a good time to visit too. Hotel rates tend to be less expensive at this time of year, and it is easy to visit some of the local hot spots that can be very busy during the busier months. Expect daytime temps to climb into the low 60s with the mercury dropping down into the 30s overnight.
Events to Check Out:
- The Country Music Association annual awards event takes place in November, honoring the biggest names in the business.
- The Tennessee Titans are in the midst of their NFL season and November is a good time to visit Nissan Stadium.
December
The start of December tends to be a quiet time in Nashville but the city gets busy again during the holiday season, with large influx of people arriving for New Year’s Eve celebrations. If you’re a holiday traveler, be sure to book your accommodations early and expect to pay higher prices as a result. The weather in December has average highs of about 49 degrees F and lows of 31 degrees F, so a definite chill will be in the air. Dress warm for those nights out on the town and bring a rain jacket to fend off the more than 4.25 inches of precipitation.
Events to Check Out:
- Jack Daniel’s Music City Midnight is one of the biggest New Year’s Eve celebrations in the entire country.
- Holiday lights abound in Nashville, but few can compare to the Opryland Resort’s Country Christmas display.
- The Music City Winterfest is a celebration of the season and is held annually at the historic Centennial Park.
- Get all of your seasonal shopping done at the Porter Flea Holiday Market.