Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Nashville gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from BNA to the city takes roughly 80 minutes by WeGo Public Transit Route 18, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of BNA:
- Can you legally enter United States? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 80-minute journey each way by WeGo Public Transit Route 18, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Getting to Nashville from the Airport
The most straightforward way into Nashville is the WeGo Public Transit Route 18, which takes about 80 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 100 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the WeGo Public Transit Route 18 is usually the smarter call.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Nashville, two standouts are:
- Ryman Auditorium — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
- Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum — Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside BNA — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Delta Sky Club BNA
- American Airlines Admirals Club BNA
Food Worth Trying
For food in Nashville, local travelers recommend Hattie B’s Hot Chicken (Midtown). If you have time for a second stop, Merchants is another popular pick.
Back at BNA, Biscuit Love BNA is the go-to. Jack Daniel’s Bar & Grill BNA rounds out your in-terminal options.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Nashville:
Transport to the city and back runs about $9 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $18 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $37 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Bag Storage Near BNA
Specific locker facilities at BNA aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Nashville itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at BNA for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Nashville or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at BNA include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in United States also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Nashville exploring the streets or relaxing at BNA, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.