Nashville for couples: the most romantic things to do

Are you looking for anniversary ideas? Need a hint for an impressive first date? The most romantic things to do in Nashville are good for every occasion. From partying the night away in one of the city's famous honky tonk bars to a summer cruise on the Cumberland River, there are plenty of opportunities for romantic activities in Music City.

No matter where your tastes lie, couples activities in Nashville are sure to impress. Take to the skies in a private helicopter ride, or spot the city landmarks from the seat of a horse-drawn carriage – whatever you choose, here’s how to dial up the romance.

1. Dine in style on a riverboat cruise

One of the best couples activities to be found in Nashville is an old-fashioned cruise down the Cumberland River. A trip on the General Jackson showboat offers a romantic afternoon on the waters with a delicious lunch, classic entertainment, and scenic views of the city.

Best time to go:

Spring is the best season for a riverboat cruise. Not only are the temperatures milder, but the water level of the Cumberland River is higher.

2. Ride a private carriage through the streets of Music City

Explore Music City in the most memorable way in your own private world on wheels. Take a ride in the beautifully decorated Cinderella private carriage to see attractions like Broadway and Printers Alley while feeling like a VIP. This is one of those romantic activities you definitely won't forget.

Best time to go:

Sunset will offer the best romantic views of Nashville during your ride. In addition, summer is when the city is at its liveliest.

3. Explore the honky tonk bar scene

If you're looking for lively date ideas, then check out the honky tonk bar scene on Printers Alley and Broadway. Offering drinks, dancing, and live entertainment, you can explore these bars and more on a pub crawl. Don't forget to sample some of Nashville's unique craft beers – they'll add a special flavor to the evening's romantic activities.

Best time to go:

Like most nightlife districts, Printers Alley really only comes alive after the sun sets. Start in the early evening to make dusk a part of the experience.

4. Dance on a tractor-driven party wagon

There are so many unique ways to party in Nashville that the hard part is making a choice. Want something truly unique? Try a ride on the party tour of Nashville. This is the largest party wagon in town, driven by a big red tractor, with a fully stocked bar, LED dance floor, and plenty of entertainment provided.

Best time to go:

After dark offers the best atmosphere, but keep an eye on the weather to ensure it is clear enough for an open-air experience.

5. Play a recreational round of putt-putt golf

If you're looking for a low-key date idea, then consider a game of putt-putt golf. If you combine it with a bar crawl via golf cart, you'll get to visit five of the best Nashville bars by golf cart, with drinks determined by how well you play.

Best time to go:

The tour takes place after sundown when the Midtown bars are open. Remember to drink responsibly for a safe night out.

6. Fly above the city in a helicopter

For truly impressive anniversary ideas, take to the skies. See the beauty of the city from high above, including sights like the Bridgestone Arena, from the comfort of a climate-controlled cabin on a helicopter tour. You can even upgrade to a VIP champagne experience for that extra intimate touch.

Best time to go:

Late afternoon to evening will offer the best experience as it will allow you to see the sunset and the city begin to light up at night.

7. Dine out like a local

Nashville's food scene is famous around the world, and there are plenty of options available for a romantic meal for two. Not sure which cuisine will fit the occasion? Take a food tour to sample all the local flavors.

Best time to go:

Summer is the liveliest time for dining in Nashville, with lots of food events. Any other time of the year will see smaller crowds and lower prices.

8. Party on the water on a pontoon

If you're dating a dance lover and you've already tried the party scene Downtown, why not try out the one on the water? Join a pontoon party and enjoy a honky tonk-style floating bar and dance venue situated on a 50-foot pontoon. Sweep your date off their feet as you float down the Cumberland River.

Best time to go:

Spring and fall offer the best temperatures. While summer can be popular, the river level also tends to be lower due to higher water usage.

9. Spend a night at the Grand Ole Opry

The Grand Ole Opry has been an institution in Nashville for almost a century and offers the perfect night out for you and your significant other. Grab a ticket to the Grand Ole Opry show and upgrade to Tier 1 or 2 seats for an even more luxurious experience in the Circle Room Lounge.

Best time to go:

The Grand Ole Opry show plays every weekend, and no two shows are ever the same. Make sure to arrive early to be comfortably seated in time.

10. See a show at an iconic music venue

If you want to make a music lover happy, Music City has endless options. From classical concerts at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center to the hottest acts at the Bridgestone Arena, there is plenty to choose from on any night. To make an evening really special, pick a gig at the Ryman Auditorium and complement your visit with a tour of the Ryman Auditorium. Explore the venue's museum and even take a #couplesselfie on the iconic stage.

Best time to go:

You can take the tour before or after the show, so plan your date accordingly.

11. Enjoy some retail therapy at Nashville's hottest stores

Perhaps you and your partner prefer to spend some time exploring Nashville's boutique stores and retail scene. Join a walking tour to explore stores like Kittenish, Blush, and Finnley's. Along the way, stop at several locations for cocktails and snacks.

Best time to go:

Mornings on weekdays tend to be the quietest times for shopping in Nashville. Afternoons and weekends will see more crowds and busier services.

12. Get your picture taken together on a romantic photoshoot

A private photoshoot in one of Nashville's most beautiful locations is a perfect romantic thing to do in Nashville. Organise a private photoshoot with champagne to be paired with your own professional photographer, who will capture those precious moments in some of Nashville's most scenic locations.

Best time to go:

Sunset will offer the most romantic shots of the Nashville skyline. That said, your photographer will be able to advise you on the best angles and locations throughout the photoshoot.

FAQs

What are the most romantic activities to do in Nashville?

A visit to a live show, such as the Grand Ole Opry or Ryman Auditorium, is a great romantic option. Other romantic activities include dinner on a riverboat cruise or a visit to one of Nashville's many honky tonk bars.

What are some offbeat romantic things to do in Nashville?

Party tours on tractor-drive wagons or floating pontoons offer some of the more offbeat romantic activities available in Nashville. Alternatively, try a ride through Downtown on a royal horse-drawn carriage.

What are the most romantic spots to watch the sunset in Nashville?

The view from the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge offers some incredibly romantic sunset views over the Cumberland River. You can also find great views at Love Circle and the Bicentennial Capitol Mall.

What are some romantic day trips from Nashville?

There are plenty of scenic places just outside of Nashville that are perfect for a romantic getaway. Some great options include Lynchburg, Pigeon Forge, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

What are the best places to take romantic photos in Nashville?

The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge offers one of the best vantage points for romantic photos in Nashville. Some other great locations include Lovers Circle, The Gulch, and East Nashville.