The 10 Best Walking Tours in Nashville
Nashville isn’t just about Country Music and honky-tonks on Broadway. Its streets hide stories of ghosts, murders, civil rights struggles, and legendary musicians, all waiting to be explored on foot. The city’s compact downtown is packed with landmarks, and its neighborhoods each have distinct flavors and tales that make walking tours a perfect way to experience Nashville authentically. Whether you’re into spooky legends, musical history, or local eats, there’s a walk for you.
Get ready to stretch your legs and learn something new with our curated list of the best walking tours in Nashville. From haunted nights and true crime stories to food tastings and famous footsteps, these tours are your ticket to seeing Nashville from a different perspective—and often, a more personal one.
Quick Overview
Our list includes ghost and haunted tours, like the Ghosts of Nashville Night-Time Walking Tour, and more adult-themed options such as the Dark Secrets: Murder & True Crime Walking Ghost Tour. For history lovers, there’s the Civil Rights Walking Tour of Nashville and the Famous Footsteps Tour. Foodies can explore Nashville’s culinary scene with food-focused walks in East Nashville or The Gulch. Music fans will appreciate the Legends of Music City Tour, offering a quick dive into Nashville’s musical icons.
Below, we compare each tour’s highlights, price points, and what makes it special—so you can pick exactly what fits your interests and schedule.
1. The Ghosts of Nashville Night-Time Walking Tour
This spooky after-dark walk covers Nashville landmarks with ghost stories and legends. Starting at the Tennessee State Capitol, you’ll follow a small group (limited to just eight people) through sites like historic churches, music venues, and drinking dens. Your guide shares tales from the Civil War era to modern ghost sightings, creating a fun, eerie atmosphere.
What makes this tour stand out is its intimate size and the variety of story-rich locations, like the Ryman Auditorium and the Flying Saucer pub, once Union Station’s baggage claim. With a solid 4.5-star rating from 754 reviews at $24.99 per person, it’s a budget-friendly option for fans of ghost lore. Guests rave about the personal experience and the engaging storytelling.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a spooky, personal look at Nashville’s haunted past after dark.
2. Murder in Music City Night-Time Ghost Walking Tour of Nashville
For lovers of true crime and ghost stories, this 90-minute Murder in Music City tour is a standout. It covers Nashville’s darker history—mob activity, murders, scandals—while visiting iconic spots like the Maxwell House Hotel and Printer’s Alley. The tour emphasizes the city’s brutal past and hidden secrets, making it ideal for adult audiences with a taste for the macabre.
Rated 4.5 out of 5 from 717 reviews at $34.99, it offers a compelling mix of history and chilling tales. Guides like Nestor and Trevor bring stories to life with animated narration and attention to detail. Guests particularly appreciate the entertaining commentary and the opportunity to explore downtown Nashville at night.
Bottom line: Best suited for those intrigued by Nashville’s violent past, with an adult audience in mind.
3. Guided Pub Crawl Walking Tour of Downtown Nashville
If exploring Nashville’s vibrant bar scene sounds appealing, this Pub Crawl combines history, entertainment, and drinks. Over about 2 hours 15 minutes, you’ll visit 4-5 historic bars along Printers Alley and Second Avenue, with live music, trivia, and drink specials (own expense). The tour is lively, interactive, and offers insights into Nashville’s colorful nightlife and history, with guides keeping the mood upbeat.
Rated 4.5 stars from 672 reviews at $25, this tour is great for social travelers wanting to combine sightseeing with fun. Reviewers love the mix of stories, games, and music, plus the chance to go off the main tourist drag and discover local favorites.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a social, fun way to experience Nashville’s bar scene with some history thrown in.
4. Nashville’s Dark Secrets: Murder & True Crime Walking Ghost Tour
Adults seeking a dark, intense experience should consider this 1.5-hour Dark Secrets tour. It explores Nashville’s most notorious locations tied to murders, hauntings, and paranormal activity. Stops include Printer’s Alley and Skull’s Rainbow Room, with stories of unsolved mysteries and ghostly encounters.
With a 4.5-star score from 552 reviews at $34.95, it offers a sophisticated look into Nashville’s less-glamorous side. Guides like Lucy and Angie are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, even including a ghost-hunting element during a VIP segment. It’s a compelling choice for adult travelers interested in the city’s sinister stories.
Bottom line: Great for those who want a spooky, adult-oriented tour delving into Nashville’s darker history.
5. Nashville: Guided Foodie Walking Tour with Tastings
Food lovers will appreciate this Foodie Walking Tour, which takes about 3 hours through East Nashville. Your local guide introduces you to the city’s vibrant food scene, with tastings like hot chicken, pulled pork, and banana pudding at popular local spots. It’s an engaging way to learn about Nashville’s culinary traditions and culture in a relaxed atmosphere.
Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 152 reviews at $105, it offers excellent value considering the variety, quality, and insider tips. Guests praise the knowledgeable guide, delicious food, and the chance to explore both East Nashville and its history.
Bottom line: Perfect for foodies wanting a comprehensive taste of Nashville’s local flavors and neighborhoods.
6. Nashville’s “Famous Footsteps” Guided Walking Tour
If you’re short on time but want a quick overview of Nashville’s musical legends, this 2-hour Famous Footsteps tour is ideal. It hits landmarks like the Ryman Auditorium and the Country Music Hall of Fame, mentioning icons such as Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash along the way. It’s a great intro for first-timers wanting a snapshot of Nashville’s musical roots.
Rated 5.0 from 84 reviews at $30.77, guests find it a concise, engaging walk with plenty of storytelling. Some reviewers mention it’s perfect for families or those with limited time.
Bottom line: A solid choice for a quick, entertaining overview of Nashville’s music scene.
7. Nashville Private Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
For a more personalized experience, this Private Food Tour takes you through Nashville’s 12 South neighborhood. Over 3.5 hours, you sample dishes like pulled pork, hot chicken, and smoked turkey, while your guide shares local secrets and tips. It’s a private, leisurely tasting adventure designed for small groups.
Rated 5.0 from 62 reviews at $335, it’s a premium but comprehensive way to explore Nashville’s food scene in depth, perfect for foodies who want direct access to their guide.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers seeking a tailored, in-depth culinary walk with personalized attention.
8. Wander Nashville- Guided Historic Walking Tour
This budget-friendly Wander Nashville offers a 1 hour 45-minute tour for just $10 per person. It covers key downtown landmarks like the Grand Ole Opry, Tootsies, and the Country Music Hall of Fame, with a focus on Nashville’s music history and notable personalities. Personal listening devices ensure everyone catches the stories.
Rated 5.0 from 55 reviews, it’s an economical way to get a quick yet informative overview of Nashville’s top sights, making it suitable for budget travelers or short visits.
Bottom line: Best for travelers on a budget who want a quick, engaging introduction to Nashville’s history.
9. Walking and Tasting Tour of The Gulch
This Gulch Food & Walking Tour combines the energy of Nashville’s trendiest neighborhood with food sampling. Over 2 hours 45 minutes, you enjoy tastings at 4-5 spots, including barbecue, hot chicken, and sweets, with plenty of photo stops along the way.
Rated 5.0 from 48 reviews at $98, it balances quality, variety, and a lively atmosphere. Tour-goers love the combination of food, local murals, and the chance to understand Nashville’s modern side.
Bottom line: Suitable for those wanting a lively, flavor-packed walk through one of Nashville’s hottest neighborhoods.
10. Haunted Nashville Night-Time Walking Tour with Costumed Guide
Step into Nashville’s ghostly side with this Haunted Night Tour. Led by a guide dressed in Victorian costume, you’ll visit landmarks like the Hermitage Hotel, Tennessee State Capitol, and more, hearing tales of the Lady in White and other spectral legends. The lantern-lit atmosphere adds a fun, spooky vibe.
Rated perfect 5.0 from 48 reviews at $20, it’s an affordable way to explore Nashville’s haunted history, especially for those who enjoy ghost stories and a bit of theatrical flair.
Bottom line: Great for history and ghost story fans who appreciate a theatrical, nighttime experience.
How to Choose Your Perfect Nashville Walking Tour
Now that you’ve seen the options, how do you decide? If budget is your main concern, the Wander Nashville or Ghosts of Nashville Night-Time Walking Tour offer solid experiences without breaking the bank. For food lovers, the Foodie Tours and Secret Food Tour in 12 South or The Gulch provide delicious samples and local insight.
History enthusiasts interested in Nashville’s civil rights or legendary figures should consider the Civil Rights Tour or the Legends of Music City.
Think about your fitness level and time: the Famous Footsteps is short and sweet, while the private Food Tour offers a more in-depth culinary experience. Book early for popular tours, especially in peak seasons.
In summary, Nashville offers a variety of walking tours that cater to diverse interests—from ghost stories and true crime to music legends and food tastings. For a spooky night, the Ghosts of Nashville or Haunted Nashville Night Tour are perfect. Music lovers should not miss the Legend tour, while foodies will enjoy exploring neighborhoods with taste-focused walks.
Whatever your style, Nashville’s streets are ready for your footsteps—so pick your tour, book early, and enjoy discovering the city’s stories firsthand.