Nashville: Donut Walking Tour with Downtown Stops & Tastings

Summary

Sweet donut tastings in Nashville’s music-filled downtown

You’ll walk through downtown Nashville sampling fresh donuts at local favorites like Parlor Doughnuts and Donut Distillery, hear stories from your guide about music legends and city quirks, and get swept into the energy of Broadway’s live sounds. Includes all donut tastings and plenty of time to soak up the city’s flavor—literally and otherwise.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I didn’t wake up thinking I’d eat four donuts before noon. But that’s what happened when we met up in Sobro, right outside Parlor Doughnuts. The place smelled like warm sugar and coffee—one of those scents that makes you pause a second. Our guide, Jamie, handed out their “layered” doughnut (she explained the difference but honestly, I was just focused on the flaky texture). My friend tried to pronounce “cronut” in a Southern accent; Jamie just grinned and said, “Y’all are here for the real thing.”

We wandered towards Broadway after that first bite. The streets were already humming—guitar riffs leaking from open doors, people waving from pedal taverns. Jamie pointed out the Country Music Hall of Fame as we passed (I’d seen it on postcards but it’s bigger up close). She told us a story about Dolly Parton sneaking in for a surprise show once—don’t know if it’s true but I want to believe it. Our next stop was this little spot in the Arts District where the donuts had this almost caramelized edge. I got powdered sugar everywhere. No regrets.

By the time we reached Donut Distillery inside Assembly Food Hall, I’d lost track of how many flavors we’d tried—there was one with whiskey glaze that made me laugh because only in Nashville, right? The place was busy but not rushed; families with kids grabbing mini donuts, someone playing an acoustic set nearby. We sat for a bit and just listened to all the noise and chatter mixing together. There was something about tasting donuts while hearing live music that felt very Nashville to me—I still think about that view from our table sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Donut tasting and downtown walk

• Visit Parlor Doughnuts
• Walk through downtown Nashville
• Pass by Country Music Hall of Fame
• Pass by Bridgestone Arena
• Try donuts and biscuits
• Visit two donut shops in Arts District
• End at Donut Distillery in Assembly Food Hall

Top questions

How long is the Nashville donut walking tour?

The tour lasts around 2 hours and covers just over a mile on foot.

Are donuts included in the price?

Yes, all donut tastings at each stop are included during the tour.

Is this tour suitable for kids or strollers?

Yes, children are welcome and you can bring a pram or stroller along.

Where does the tour start?

The tour begins at Parlor Doughnuts in the Sobro neighborhood of Nashville.

Is the route wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces on this walking tour are wheelchair accessible.

Does this include stops near Broadway or music landmarks?

Yes, you’ll pass by Broadway’s entertainment district and see places like the Country Music Hall of Fame.

How many donut shops do we visit?

You’ll visit three different donut shops during the walk through downtown Nashville.

Is lunch provided or just donuts?

The tour includes donut tastings only; other food options are available at Assembly Food Hall at your own expense.

What’s included

Your day includes guided tastings at three local donut shops across downtown Nashville—starting in Sobro at Parlor Doughnuts, stopping for more treats in the Arts District, then finishing at Donut Distillery inside Assembly Food Hall. All donut samples are covered during your walk; just bring comfy shoes and some curiosity for sweet things (and maybe napkins).