Nashville is more than honky-tonks and hot chicken. In just two days, you can sip your way through its booming craft beer scene, feast on biscuits and fiery fried chicken, wander through music history, and discover why locals call it one of the most exciting food and drink cities in America. Whether you’re here for a quick weekend or extending a work trip, this 48-hour guide blends iconic Nashville bites with hidden gems.

Day 1: Hot Chicken, Local Brews, and Honky-Tonks

Wake Up in Style

Check into the Embassy Suites Nashville Downtown—far from the chain you may remember. With floor-to-ceiling views, a swanky lobby, and the city’s tallest rooftop bar, it’s a plush base for your weekend.

Coffee and Culture

Start at Crema Coffee Roasters, a zero-waste cafe serving vibrant avocado toast and expertly crafted brews. If time allows, visit the National Museum of African American Music for an inspiring deep dive into the sounds that shaped the nation.

Lunch at Assembly Food Hall

One stop, dozens of choices. Try Prince’s Hot Chicken, the birthplace of Nashville’s fiery dish, or wander through stalls offering global bites from pho to pizza.

Brewery Hopping

  • Jackalope Brewing – Maple brown ales and easygoing vibes.
  • Fait La Force – A Belgian-inspired newcomer with a mission of inclusivity and saisons worth savoring.
  • Hattie B’s Hot Chicken – Yes, technically dinner, but this stop is non-negotiable. Choose your spice level wisely (locals say “juicy” is the keyword).

Nightcap on Broadway

Head to The Valentine, a lively honky-tonk with multiple floors of live music and plenty of room to dance.

Day 2: Biscuits, Breweries, and Global Flavors

Morning Comfort

Pick your biscuit style: Biscuit Love for creative takes like the “East Nasty,” or Big Al’s Deli for soulful, no-frills plates that locals swear by.

Guitar Stop

At the Gibson Garage, try your hand on legendary guitars or just soak in the craftsmanship and history.

Afternoon Beer Tour

  • Barrique Brewing – Fruited sours, lagers, and cask ales brewed with local ingredients.
  • Southern Grist – Over 1,000 beers in just seven years, plus a taproom menu designed to pair perfectly with their pours.

Dinner at Lyra

Dive into modern Middle Eastern small plates like smoky eggplant, creamy hummus, and buttermilk pistachio labneh. Sharing is the only way to eat here.

Evening Brews

  • Bearded Iris – IPAs are the stars, but don’t miss their crisp pilsner collab.
  • Monday Night Preservation Co. – A hidden brewery with 24 rotating taps and one of the city’s most atmospheric taprooms.

Quick Guide: Where to Eat and Drink in Nashville

Category Must-Try Spots Highlights
Coffee Crema Coffee Roasters Carbon-neutral café, avo toast
Hot Chicken Prince’s, Hattie B’s Fiery Nashville tradition
Biscuits Biscuit Love, Big Al’s Deli Modern vs. soulful classic
Breweries Jackalope, Fait La Force, Barrique, Southern Grist, Bearded Iris, Monday Night From Belgian saisons to hazy IPAs
Dinner Lyra Middle Eastern small plates
Music & Culture Gibson Garage, National Museum of African American Music, The Valentine Guitars, history, honky-tonk charm

In just 48 hours, Nashville proves itself as more than just Music City—it’s a place where food, beer, and culture come together with Southern warmth and creative energy.

Find the Best Home to Stay in Nashville

Nashville shines brightest when you can live like a local. With HomeExchange, you can stay in a home near the best neighborhoods, cook your own breakfasts before heading to Broadway, and relax after a night of live country tunes, all while saving on hotel costs.

Travel to Nashville with HomeExchange