Nashville has entertainment down to an art--an art that the city has been honing for decades. It has something to offer travelers year-round. Although there are busy seasons, there's no complete off-season in Music City, USA. Whether you're visiting for a music festival, the fall colors, an event, or to try out some of the city's world-class dining, you're in for an experience.
The best time to visit Nashville depends on your preferences and the reason for your trip. Nashville's humid subtropical climate makes it travel-friendly most of the year, with the hottest temperatures in July-August and the lowest temps in December and January.
Best Months to Visit Nashville
In search of temperate weather? The spring months (March-May) or the autumn season (late September-November) offer pleasantly mild temps that invite you to savor time spent outdoors. Here's a complete breakdown of the best time of year to visit Nashville and what to expect from the weather and the atmosphere of the city when you visit.
How is the weather in Nashville in January-February?
January and February are the coldest months in Nashville, with high temperatures averaging 50F and lows around 30F each night. You'll definitely want to pack some cozy layers and a good jacket. These are great months for budget travelers, when the cost of flights and lodging tend to drop a bit following the holiday rush.
Nashville is less busy during these months, as well, so you'll have less trouble snagging reservations to the best restaurants and there will be fewer crowds to battle in museums and other attractions. You'll get a more realistic taste of the "real Nashville," not as clogged with tourists as it is during the later spring and summer months.
Nashville's restaurant week happens in January and if you're lucky enough to be in the city on NYE, the Jack Daniels New Year's Eve Festival is a memorable experience.
How is the weather in Nashville in March and April?
Things start to warm up in March and April and as the world comes back to life, you'll get a glimpse into the beauty of a Tennessee spring. High temperatures are usually around 65F this time of year, with lows dipping into the 40s overnight. Concerts and other events start to pick back up during the spring such as the Music City Irish Fest in March, culminating on St. Patrick's Day, or plan your visit to coincide with the Nashville Comedy Festival.
March in Nashville is still less crowded than it is later in the year, with the added benefit of slightly warmer weather. Pack a rain jacket, though; it can be a bit soggy during the spring, with unpredictable thunderstorms and showers, some of them quite intense, peppering the area.
What is the weather like in Nashville in May-June?
Nashville's music scene really comes to life in May and June. Big-name concerts start filling up the Ryman Auditorium and other concert venues throughout the city and in June, CMA Fest brings country music fans flocking to town. The weather is warming up during these months, as well.
In May, Nashville's average high is 79F, with an average low of 57F--arguably the perfect weather for exploring a new town. It's a little warmer in June, with highs in the mid-80's and lows in the mid-60's at night.
Is July-August a good time to visit Nashville?
July and August are the hottest months in Tennessee. This is when the heat and humidity come out to play. Highs reach the low-90's and lows are around 70F this time of year. That makes these balmy summer months the perfect time to enjoy a few water adventures--and you'll find plenty.
The Cumberland River supplies a huge array of creeks and lakes that invite you to jump in, whether you're hopping on a kayak, SUP, or jumping into a favorite watering hole. Rock Island State Park and Cummins Falls State Park are just a couple of favorite summer spots with waterfalls and an array of jumping-in potential.
August is a great month for the arts scene in Nashville, as well; the Kindling Arts Festival and Tomato Art Fest take place in August. The Defy Film Festival typically takes place in August, as well.
What is Nashville weather like in September-October?
As the weather cools off and the foliage starts to turn, hiking season officially begins. Of course, it's more than possible to hike in the spring and summer months, as well--but you risk spring thunderstorms and summer heat. There's nothing like hitting the trails on a Tennessee fall day when the weather is typically cool and dry.
September in Nashville is pleasant, with high temperatures averaging 82F and lows averaging 62. In October, it's a bit cooler, with highs averaging 72F and lows averaging 49F. You're most likely to see lovely fall colors in October.
Book lovers enjoy the Southern Book Fair in September, while the Nashville Cultural Festival in early October is a colorful event celebrating the many cultures that make up modern Nashville.
How is the weather in Nashville in November-December?
This is the time of year when the festivals slow down (a bit) to make way for the holidays. You'll find the tender Tennessee Christmas made famous by the song. But you'll also find an extravagant Thanksgiving and a city decked out in its best to celebrate the season. Temperatures are still fairly pleasant, although you may want a jacket. In November, highs are in the low 60's and in December, highs are in the low 50's.
The Opryland Christmas Show sells out year after year, with festive performances that bring in rave reviews, delighting audiences of all ages. You'll find holiday concerts of all genres at venues throughout the city. A pop-up ice skating rink at Ford Ice Center is a great place to make memories in December and January. And seasonal menus at coffee shops, bakeries and cocktail bars offer a little something special that makes the season feel a lot like magic.
Still on the fence about the best time to visit Nashville? Take our word for it: there are no wrong answers. Take a peek at the event calendars that most appeal to you and start planning your trip.
Planning Your Trip to Nashville
When thinking of the best time to visit Nashville it’s important to know that AAA members can access perks and take advances for vacation planning such as getting the best discounts on hotels, rental cars and entertainment tickets.