Nashville in Fall: 2024 Festivals and Foliage Guide
Temperatures might not be quite as cool down South, but Music City is no stranger to fall. From prize-worthy pumpkins to award-winning film festivals, fall in Nashville is unparalleled.
Follow along to discover everything you need to know about Nashville in the fall.
Set against a vibrant backdrop of fiery red Maple trees and orange-hued Chokeberries, fall activities in Nashville run the gamut.
Immerse yourself in the lore of music legends at the Country Music Hall of Fame, or explore the spacious grounds of Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage. Get lost in a winding corn maze at the family-friendly Lucky Ladd Farms, or chomp into a juicy caramel apple.
Pull on that flannel and pack those cowboy boots because it’s time to explore all of the Fall things to do in Nashville!
Outdoor Fall Activities Nashville
Nashville Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour
Want to hit the ground running? Cover every Nashville point of interest from Centennial Park to the Country Music Hall of Fame when you book a Nashville Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour. Dive into all of the downtown Nashville charm, history, and atmosphere when you spend 90 minutes aboard an open-air trolley.
Let your knowledgeable guide regale you with narration, insider tips, and little-known facts as you tackle 14 stops. Cruise past the Ryman Auditorium, the Belmont Mansion, the Frist Art Museum, and more. Pause for a savory bite at Hot Chicken, or take a peek inside a legendary honky tonk like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge.
Hop on and off your comfortable trolley at will, as your ticket affords you unlimited reboarding privileges.
Radnor Lake State Park
Need a flora-filled reprieve from Music City? Escape the city limits and revel in the fresh air, changing leaves, and over 1000 acres of nature. Radnor Lake State Park is just a 20-minute drive from Nashville and features an abundance of wildlife, hiking trails, and stunning photo ops.
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Make your way through almost 8 miles of trails, or bring along a bicycle to cruise through Otter Creek Road. Budding birders and biologists will be in heaven as they observe owls, herons, waterfowl, and otters in their natural habitat.
Belmont Mansion
A stunning testament to Nashville history, the Belmont Mansion has survived many reincarnations. Constructed as an Italian Villa in 1849, this sprawling palace served as the summer home for Nashville socialite Adelicia Acklen and her family. Years later, it would go on to reign as the temporary headquarters of the Union army.
And later still, as the location for an all-girls college. Today the Belmont Mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and sits in the middle of the breathtaking Belmont University campus.
Wander through sumptuously designed rooms complete with checkered marble floors. Or stroll through manicured gardens, gazebos, and more. For an even deeper dive into the mansion, book a guided tour.
Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage
A lauded military general, a president, and a living legend, Old Hickory has long fascinated the American people. Uncover the history of Andrew Jackson and his homely estate when you access over 1000 acres of pristine beauty. Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage delivers plenty of fall scenery with its historical garden, greenhouse, field quarters, and outbuildings.
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Discover the Greek Revival-style antebellum style of Tulip Grove, or witness the pomp of the entry hall’s grand staircase. After a few hours of hiking through the grounds, swing by the Natchez Hills Winery for light snacks, local wine, and craft beer.
Craving something a little more spooky than serene? Visit the Hermitage under the cover of darkness for a truly sinister Ghost Tour. Let yourself be guided by lantern light as you learn about the unexplained incidents and paranormal proceedings on site.
Soul of Music City Night Tour
Nashvegas, Cashville, Music City. Whatever you want to call Nashville, there’s no doubt that music is the lifeblood of this bustling metropolis. You’ll cover it all from honky tonk to blues, rock, and country on the Soul of Music City Night Tour.
Become experts on Nashville’s iconic music heritage, take a glimpse of the Ryman, and scope out the ‘Rock Block.’ This 1.5-hour after-dark trolley tour will have you cruising through historic neighborhoods, Jefferson Street, and the infamous Music Row.
From Elvis to Hendrix, you’ll stop by the hallowed sights where music’s great honed their craft. Hold tight to that cowboy hat, as you won’t want to miss a moment of neon-tinged Southern glory.
Treetop Adventure Park
Calling all adrenaline junkies! Combine your verdant forest expedition with serious thrills when you swing by Treetop Adventure Park. Located in the lush woods of Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort, this full-scale family-friendly park contains 100 exciting obstacles and challenges.
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Little monkeys of all ages will be clamoring to conquer suspended bridges, giant zip lines, Tarzan swings, and cargo nets. With three courses to complete, there’s plenty of excitement no matter your skill level. Fall time makes Treetop an even more coveted experience, as you can peep at the foliage while you swing.
Nashville Fall Festivals
Cheekwood Harvest Festival
The Harvest season is in full effect in Powder City, and nowhere is the gourd more on display than Cheekwood. The annual Cheekwood Harvest Festival includes a bounty of seasonal flora in the most brilliant autumn hues. Witness the transformation of oaks, maples, dogwoods, and more as they shed their summer looks for more vibrant hues.
Capture the enchantment of more than 5,000 chrysanthemums, or seek out the towering scarecrows in the Turner Seasons Garden. Pose for a cheeky photo opp in front of the two pumpkin houses, or pick up an orange orb to decorate at home. Rehydrate with a tasty ale in the Beer Garden, or aww over fluffy Fidos in the Pooch Parade.
This lively affair lasts six weeks, so you’ll have plenty of time to experience all of the autumn offerings.
Looking for even more fall fun at Cheekwood Gardens? Attend the annual Dia de Los Muertos event at the end of October.
*Please note that this event has yet to be confirmed.
Family Fun Pumpkin Festival
Thousands of pumpkins and acres of entertainment make the Lucky Ladd Farms annual Family Fun Pumpkin Festival a can’t-miss attraction. Family Fun boasts the honor of being the best middle Tennessee fall festivaland the number one Pumpkin Patch in the state.
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This lively estate features a mind-bending themed corn maze, sweet and savory eats, and festive face painting. From mid-September through the end of October, create lasting gourd memories as you pick the perfect pumpkin or pose in front of decorated hay bales. Tiny tots will forget all about trick or treating once they bite into a fluffy apple cider donut or sample some addicting kettle corn.
September Sundown
Can’t wait to get down to some local beats? Celebrate Nashville with a cultural festival this fall. Locals and visitors alike can enjoy the September Sundown for an entire five-week fall season from September 1st – September 30th. Presented by the Musicians Corner, this free outdoor concert series showcases local Nashville talent. So grab a blanket and get cozy at Centennial Park.
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Spend the evening watching musical performances or browsing local artisan’s goods. Younger music heads will be entertained by the medley of Kidsville activities. While foodies will be in heaven with the wide array of food truck vendors. Sample eats from Retro Snow and Daddy’s Dogs, or sip a Nashville Blonde Ale at the onsite MC Pub.
Americana Music Festival
Five days of music in the very heart of Nashville? Yes, please! This city of country, rock, and soul truly shines when it comes to putting on world-class music festivals. Be part of the legion of artists, fans, and industry professionals who gather each year for the Americana Music Festival.
Held by the Americana Music Association, this music festival features live performances, seminars, panels, showcases, and parties. Revel in appearances by Don Flemons, the Band of Heathens, Bahamas, and hundreds of other acts.
Nashville Film Festival
Lights, camera, action! Dive into the magic of the silver screen when you attend one of the longest-running film festivals in the country. For over 50 years, the Nashville Film Festival has celebrated innovation and ingenuity through the medium of film. Movie lovers, young and old, are invited to assemble to take part in in-person screening events, interactive activities, parties, panels, and more.
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Catch tons of live music performances, relevant workshops, and red carpet premieres. This year’s lineup will contain over 125 screenings, post-film Q&As, and in-depth discussions with the attending filmmakers.
Tennessee Fall Craft Fair
Carve out some time to appreciate the art, culture, and time-honored traditions represented at the Tennessee Craft Fair. Experience a hearty helping of Nashville craft pride. Load up on one-of-a-kind handmade goods, ranging from woven baskets to bespoke furniture.
Every item here is unique, you’ll even have the opportunity to meet the artists and discover the inspiration behind their craft.
Browse jewelry, leather goods, metal work, and textile tapestries. Besides supporting the fine arts and crafts, you can keep little ones entertained with hands-on activities at the kid’s tent. Or just take in the festive atmosphere and various food vendors as you meander through Centennial Park.
Celebrate Nashville Cultural Festival
A cacophony of color, multi-culturalism, and exotic flavors, the Celebrate Nashville Cultural Festival redefines fall jubilation. Considered one of Music City’s most vibrant cultural festivals, locals and tourists alike will be enchanted by this festive gathering featuring music, dance, food, and artisanal goods. Spend your Saturday in Centennial Park, as you celebrate the diverse offerings of the Nashville community.
Ideal for all ages, this immersive festival experience showcases live music performances, hands-on children’s activities, a teen area, and a bustling vendor market.
Sit back and soak in a modern Blues performance on the Asurion Stage, or stop by the World Bazaar to purchase hand-crafted trinkets and souvenirs. Admire the textured costumes of the Sankofa African Drum and Dance team, or take a break to snack on ripe mango dusted with Chamoy and chile powder.*
*Please note these performances are based on previous years’ information and acts.
Boo at the Zoo
Wondering where the wild things are this October? Inject your Nashville getaway with some cuddly animal cuteness and some not-so-scary thrills, when you go to Boo at the Zoo. Nightly from October 13th – October 29th, little animal lovers can head to the Nashville Zoo for hours of Instagram-worthy photo ops, Monster Mash dance parties, and special animal shows.
Perfect that Buzz Lightyear or Woody costume, as you’ll want to show off your style in the Unseen New World Plaza. Visit the trick-or-treat stations and grab a special souvenir bag, or hop aboard the Scary-Go-Round Carousel for a free ride.
Try to spot wandering monster hay creatures, or show off your creativity when you paint a pumpkin straight from the patch. Ready to get spooktacular with the Zoo? Purchase tickets ahead of time as spaces for this ever-popular event are sure to sell out fast.
Ready to Fall Head Over Heels for Fall in Nashville? Start Planning Your Getaway Today!
Mouthwatering BBQ, iconic music venues, and Civil War history all abound in Powder City.
However, once summer fades and autumn creeps in, even more charm is imbued into the storied streets of Nashville.
Load up on Southern hospitality, honky tonk revelry, and awe-inspiring history when you visit Nashville in the fall.
From the Antebellum heritage of Belmont Mansion to soaking in fiery-hued forests while ziplining, there’s ample adventure to be had.
Pay tribute to the groovy roots of ‘Cashville’ by sneaking in a musical performance at sundown or snack away on pumpkin-flavored treats.
Tell us, What’s Your Favorite Thing About Nashville in Fall?
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