Complete Guide to Parking in Nashville, TN
Parking Options in Nashville
Between live music spilling out of Broadway honky-tonks and hopping between restaurants and rooftop stages on Lower Broadway, planning Nashville parking in advance makes exploring Music City much easier.
After picking up your rental from an Avis Nashville location, knowing where you can leave your car when exploring top attractions will save you time and stress. And, if you’re still searching for more things to do in the area, check out our Leisure Travel in Nashville Guide and our Business Travel in Nashville Guide. If you want to learn how to park in Nashville, here are the parking options you’re likely to run into:
- Neighborhood street parking: Outside the busiest areas, residential neighborhoods often have street parking available. Always check signs for permits or time limits.
- Metered street parking: Found throughout the city center and entertainment districts.
- Parking garages and lots: Often the easiest solution for downtown Nashville parking, especially near Broadway, Bridgestone Arena, and Nissan Stadium.
- Valet options: Common around Broadway and major hotels where curbside parking is limited.
Important Parking Laws in Nashville
Being aware of local parking laws is just as important as knowing where to park in Nashville. Here are some important parking laws in the Music City to keep in mind:
- Parking enforcement hours: Metered parking enforcement hours vary by district, with some areas, including downtown parking in Nashville, enforced 24/7.
- Residential permit zones: Some neighborhoods near the downtown core use permit parking to protect local spaces
- Check event restrictions: During major events like Titans games, concerts, or CMA Fest, temporary parking restrictions and road closures may be enforced around stadiums and downtown streets.
- Observe time limits in short-term zones: Some curbside spaces downtown allow parking only for a limited time, even if no meter is present. Always check for posted times.
- Park with traffic flow: When using street parking, your vehicle must face the same direction as traffic.
Resources for Finding Parking in Nashville
- Avis App: The Avis App lets you search for available spaces, reserve parking in advance, and pay directly on your phone. Plus, you can view and manage your rental.
- Nashville Downtown Partnership: This site highlights public garages and service lots in Nashville. You’ll also find information related to event parking.
- Nashville and Davidson County (Paid Parking in Nashville): Here you’ll find current parking rates in central and non-central parking districts, as well as enforcement hours and time limits.
- Nashville and Davidson County (Parking Resources): Explore more of the city’s official parking resources, including parking permits, enforcement hours, rates, and the Parklet Program.
Special Event Parking in Nashville
Parking at Major Venues in Nashville
Music Row
Parking around Music Row is mostly metered street parking mixed with a few paid parking garages and lots. Spaces can fill quickly, so plan to arrive early. Many visitors park a few blocks away in Edgehill or Midtown and walk over when nearby spots are full. Always double-check signage for restrictions, time limits, and rates.
Country Music Hall of Fame
The Country Music Hall of Fame has an attached paid garage, which is usually the easiest option if you want to park right next to the museum. Several other garages are located within a few blocks of Broadway and Bridgestone Arena. Mid-morning arrivals typically avoid the heaviest afternoon tourist traffic.
Tennessee State Capitol
The Tennessee State Capitol sits north of downtown, so most visitors use metered street parking around 6th and 7th Avenues or nearby parking garages. You can also check out parking garages along Capitol Boulevard. Weekdays can fill during legislative sessions. Early-morning or late-afternoon visits usually make it easier to find a space.
What to Expect When Parking at Annual Events in Nashville
CMA Fest
CMA Fest spreads across multiple downtown venues near Broadway, Nissan Stadium, and the riverfront, so parking fills quickly. Many streets are also closed during the festival. Most visitors park in garages farther out and walk in. Arriving early helps, especially before major evening concerts or stadium shows begin. You can check the official website for directions to the Nissan Stadium, downtown parking maps, and more.
Nashville Film Festival
The Nashville Film Festival is typically held at venues such as the Belcourt Theatre or other arts spaces, depending on the year. Parking usually relies on nearby neighborhood streets and small garages rather than large event lots. Arrive early for popular screenings and watch signage for residential parking restrictions. Check the event’s official website to find this year’s details.
Note: Information on this page provided as helpful hints only. Parking conditions and laws are subject to change. Parking not guaranteed.