Nashville: Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour with 13 Stops

Summary

Ride Nashville’s trolley past music legends, murals & the Parthenon

You’ll soak up Nashville’s music history from a classic trolley seat, hear stories from lively guides, and have time to wander places like Centennial Park or snap photos at famous murals. With flexible hop-on hop-off stops all day and live commentary included, you’ll catch both big sights and those small moments that make Nashville feel real.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the bell — that old-school clang as our Nashville hop on hop off trolley pulled up near Lower Broadway. There’s something about that sound that makes you feel like you’re in a movie. Our driver, Marcus, waved us in with a grin and said he’d be our “musical historian” for the next 90 minutes. He really meant it — within two blocks he was telling us about the Ryman Auditorium and how it used to be a church. Someone behind me hummed a Johnny Cash song under their breath. It just fit.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much. At one point, Marcus pointed out the What Lifts You mural in The Gulch and dared us to try pronouncing “Lucchese” (the boot shop) right on the first go. I failed miserably — he winked and said most locals do too. The air outside was thick with barbecue smoke drifting from somewhere off Music Row, mixing with that sweet scent of magnolia trees near Centennial Park. We hopped off at the Parthenon just because we could, and honestly, seeing that full-size Greek replica in Tennessee is still messing with my head a bit.

Back on board, there were families with strollers, a couple from Ohio asking about hot chicken spots, and an older lady who seemed to know every word to every country song playing softly through the speakers. The pace felt easy — you could jump off at Belmont Mansion or stay put and let Nashville roll by your window like some living playlist. When we passed Marathon Village, Marcus pointed out where local distillers set up shop in old car factories. I made a note to come back for whiskey next time.

I thought I’d just sit for one loop but ended up riding longer, catching bits of stories each time someone new got on. That’s probably what stuck with me most — not just ticking off sights like Country Music Hall of Fame or Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum, but hearing little slices of Nashville life between stops. If you want to see the city without rushing (and maybe pick up some local gossip), this is your ride.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Nashville Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

• Board trolley at downtown ticket booth
• Visit Marathon Motor Works stop
• Explore Lower Broadway area
• Stop at Music Row
• See Centennial Park and Parthenon
• Visit Ryman Auditorium
• Tour Country Music Hall of Fame
• Explore Belmont Mansion and University
• Shop and dine in The Gulch
• Visit Union Station and Frist Art Museum
• Stop at Tennessee State Capitol
• See Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum
• Visit Nashville Farmer's Market and Bicentennial Plaza

Top questions

How long does the Nashville hop on hop off trolley tour take?

The full loop takes about 90 minutes if you stay onboard without hopping off.

Where can I start the Nashville trolley tour?

You can start at any of the 13 stops; main check-in is downtown at 128 4th Ave S.

Are there live guides on the trolley?

Yes, there’s live commentary provided by local guides throughout the tour.

Is the trolley wheelchair accessible?

Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible; notify the operator at least 24 hours ahead if you need assistance.

What attractions are included in the route?

The route covers Lower Broadway, Music Row, Centennial Park & Parthenon, Ryman Auditorium, Belmont Mansion & more.

Can I bring my pet on board?

No pets or emotional support animals are allowed; only service animals are permitted.

How often do trolleys depart?

Trolleys depart approximately every half hour from 9:30am to 4pm daily.

Is public transportation nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to many stops along the route.

What’s included

Your day includes unlimited rides on the Nashville hop on hop off trolley tour with live onboard commentary from local guides. All local taxes are covered in your ticket price so you can just show up at any stop—no extra fees or surprises—and enjoy exploring at your own pace before heading back whenever you’re ready.