An estimated 78 people move to Nashville every single day. While our growth has indubitably led to growing pains, Nashville has long been a city of transplants (like my grandparents), who have shaped our history, music, culture, and much more. Have you just moved to Nashville? Here are some tips! And I hope locals find something new on this list, too.
🏙️ Get Out of Downtown
There are some great things about downtown, but if all you know of Nashville is Lower Broadway, then you don’t know us at all. We’ve got so many awesome neighborhoods. Our event listings might give you the perfect excuse to explore the rest of the city.
🌪️ Follow Nashville Severe Weather
Our weather can be iffy, at best. One minute it’s hotter than the spiciest chicken; the next, there’s a tornado or an ice storm. The guys behind Nashville Severe Weather have saved lives with their minute-by-minute updates during weather emergencies. Make sure to follow them on social media.
🛣️ Learn the Rules for Driving in Nashville
While we’re working on improving public transit, for now Nashville is still a driver’s city. And to be honest, as a whole, we’re not the best drivers. Make sure to listen to our chat about the essential rules for driving in Nashville, and try to keep your cool and stay safe!
🌳 Hug Some Trees
Whenever people ask me what my favorite part of Nashville is, I say it’s the trees. We have possibly the largest urban tree canopy in the U.S. You can enjoy our trees at our amazing parks, like Radnor Lake, the Warner Parks, and Shelby Park and Bottoms.
🤠 We’re More Than Country Music
Tune into our local music discovery station, WNXP, for concerts and events across all genres of music, from punk to classical and so much more. Here’s a list of some of our favorite indie music venues to check out.
🌎 Support Other Transplants
Nashville is home to the largest Kurdish population outside Kurdistan. You can support that community at some of our favorite restaurants, like Edessa and TashTea, and also by keeping an eye out for events like the Kurdish New Year and Newroz at Plaza Mariachi. Plaza Mariachi is also the hub for a lot of our Latino community. Attend a salsa night or play loteria weekly there, and be sure to get a mangonada at a nearby michoacana.
🍴 Eat Local
Many chains and restaurants from other major cities in the U.S. (looking at you, New York) have moved to Nashville recently, but you can find a locally owned eatery from pretty much any cuisine under the sun if you know where to look. Our rec? Start by following local Nashvillians like Anas Saba, who runs Nashville Hidden Gems. And keep an eye on our food and drink coverage!
🛍️ And Shop Local
Many favorite local businesses have recently closed, and one of the best ways to support your new city and get to know it better is by shopping local! Sign up for our Keep It Local newsletter for shopping ideas.
