Are you sick of circling the block for hours on end in search of a parking spot in downtown Nashville? Or maybe you’re tired of shelling out your hard-earned cash for expensive parking garages? Well, fear not my fellow Nashvillians because I have the inside scoop on where to park for free in Music City’s bustling downtown area.
Parking can be a major pain point for anyone trying to enjoy all that Nashville has to offer. The stress of finding a spot coupled with the high cost can ruin even the most enjoyable day out. But don’t despair, because I’ve done the research and found some hidden gems that will save you time and money.
In this article, we’ll dive into the best places to park for free in downtown Nashville. From secret street spots to lesser-known parking lots, we’ve got you covered. So buckle up and get ready to never worry about parking again!
Looking for free parking in downtown Nashville? Try parking garages like the 5th Avenue of the Arts Garage, Metro Courthouse Garage, and Library Garage which offer free parking on weekends or certain days. Alternatively, metered street parking is free after 6 pm every day except Sunday when it’s free all day long. Non-metered street parking can also be found near Nissan Stadium and Tennessee State Capitol.
Is There Free Parking In Downtown Nashville?
In downtown Nashville, there is a question that often arises among visitors and locals alike: “Is there free parking?” The answer to this query is not as straightforward as one might hope. While it is true that free parking options do exist in certain areas, they are often limited and hard to come by.
One of the main areas where free parking can be found is at the Nissan Stadium, home of the Tennessee Titans. However, availability is subject to events and game days, which can significantly reduce the number of free spots.
Furthermore, some streets in downtown Nashville offer free parking during specific hours, typically after 6 PM or on weekends. However, these spaces tend to fill up quickly, and finding an open spot can be quite challenging. To mitigate the parking struggle, paid parking garages and lots are abundant throughout downtown Nashville.
These facilities offer convenience and a guaranteed spot, albeit at a cost. Overall, while free parking options do exist in downtown Nashville, they are often scarce and require careful planning and timing to secure.
Where to Find Free Parking Downtown Nashville
If you’re looking for free parking in downtown Nashville, one option is to park in a parking garage. While most garages charge hourly rates, some offer free parking during certain times or on weekends.
- The 5th Avenue of the Arts Garage offers free parking on Saturdays and Sundays. The garage is located near the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and the Johnny Cash Museum.
- The Metro Courthouse Garage also offers free parking on weekends. It’s just a short walk away from attractions like the Ryman Auditorium and the Tennessee State Capitol.
- The Library Garage offers free parking on Sundays only. It’s located near the Nashville Public Library and the Tennessee Performing Arts Center.
Street Parking
Another option for finding free parking in downtown Nashville is street parking. However, it can be challenging to find an open spot, especially during peak hours.
Metered Street Parking
Some metered street parking spots are available for free after a certain time or on certain days:
- Metered street parking is free after 6 pm every day except Sunday when it’s free all day long.
- Metered street parking is also free all day Saturday and Sunday outside of the downtown core.
Non-Metered Street Parking
There are several areas in downtown Nashville where you can park for free if you’re willing to walk a bit further:
- The area around Nissan Stadium across the Cumberland River has non-metered street parking that’s often available on game days or events.
- The area around the Tennessee State Capitol has free parking spots on the streets.
When Can You Park for Free in Downtown Nashville?
There are a few times when you can get free parking downtown Nashville:
- Metered street parking is free after 6 pm every day except Sunday when it’s free all day long.
- Metered street parking is also free all day Saturday and Sunday outside of the downtown core.
- Some parking garages offer free parking on weekends or during certain hours. Check with the garage before entering to see if they have any promotions or deals available.
How Far from Attractions Can You Park for Free in Downtown Nashville?
If you’re willing to walk a bit further, there are several areas in downtown Nashville where you can park for free:
- The area around Nissan Stadium across the Cumberland River has non-metered street parking that’s often available on game days or events. From there, it’s about a 15-20 minute walk to attractions like Broadway and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
- The area around the Tennessee State Capitol has free parking spots on the streets. It’s about a 10-minute walk from there to attractions like Ryman Auditorium and Lower Broadway.
Parking for Free on Weekends and Holidays in Downtown Nashville
If you’re planning a trip to downtown Nashville, keep in mind that some metered street parking is free all day on weekends:
- Metered street parking is also free all day Saturday and Sunday outside of the downtown core.
In addition, some parking garages offer free parking on weekends or during certain hours:
- The 5th Avenue of the Arts Garage offers free parking on Saturdays and Sundays.
- The Metro Courthouse Garage also offers free parking on weekends.
Restrictions to Parking for Free in Downtown Nashville
While there are some options for finding free parking in downtown Nashville, there are several restrictions to keep in mind:
- Free street parking is limited and often difficult to find, especially during peak hours.
- Not all parking garages offer free parking. Be sure to check with the garage before entering to see if they have any promotions or deals available.
- Some areas may have time limits for street parking, even if it’s non-metered. Be sure to read signage carefully before leaving your car parked.
Is it Safe to Park for Free in Downtown Nashville?
Downtown Nashville is a relatively safe area, but as with any city, it’s important to be cautious when walking around at night. When choosing a spot to park your car, consider the area’s visibility and security measures. Parking in a well-lit area with security cameras can help deter theft and vandalism.
Arriving Early to Find a Spot for Free Parking in Downtown Nashville
If you’re looking for free street parking in downtown Nashville, arriving early can increase your chances of finding an open spot. Many metered spots don’t become free until 6 pm or later, so plan accordingly if you’re hoping to snag one of these spots. If you’re willing to walk a bit further from your destination, consider looking for non-metered street parking options that may be less crowded.
Alternative Modes of Transportation in Downtown Nashville
If you’re having trouble finding free parking in downtown Nashville or prefer to avoid the hassle of driving, there are several alternative modes of transportation available:
- The Music City Circuit is a free bus service that runs through downtown Nashville and connects to several popular attractions.
- B-cycle is a bike-sharing program that allows you to rent a bike for a short period and return it at any B-cycle station around the city. There are several stations located throughout downtown Nashville.
- Lyft and Uber are both available in Nashville and can be a convenient option for getting around without worrying about parking.
In conclusion, finding free parking in downtown Nashville is possible with a little research and planning. Knowing the available options and taking advantage of them can save visitors time and money while exploring the city.
Frequently Asked Questions – Where to Park for Free Downtown Nashville
Can you park for free in downtown Nashville?
If you’re driving in downtown Nashville, you can park for free after 6 pm at metered street parking spots. The meters are only enforced from 8 am to 6 pm, Monday through Saturday, which means you won’t have to pay anything to park at night.
How easy is it to park in downtown Nashville?
Downtown has around 1,000 metered parking spaces that are affordable and easily accessible for short-term visitors. On-street parking costs $2.25 per hour in the Central Business District and $1.75 per hour in all other areas.
How much does it cost to park downtown Nashville?
In Nashville, there are different parking rates for different types of parking. Commuter parking and weekend parking typically range from $10 to $25, while event parking usually costs between $14 and $29. Overnight parking is the most expensive, with rates ranging from $20 to $40. The average prices offered by SpotHero reflect these ranges.
Where do you park to walk on Broadway Nashville?
If you are planning to park at The Stage On Broadway, you should note that there is no on-site parking available. The nearest option is located at 206 4th Avenue North in Nashville.
Why is parking so expensive in Nashville?
According to Ryan Chapman, the CEO of Premier Parking, the prices for various urban and real estate items including housing, office space, construction costs, and land prices have risen in the past five years. He adds that parking rates have also increased during this time, and that his company has grown to over 300 locations across the United States.
How walkable is downtown Nashville?
Downtown is a highly walkable neighborhood with a walk score of 86/100, but this may not fully convey the pedestrian-friendly atmosphere. Despite the numerous bars, restaurants, and coffee shops that offer live music around the clock, the walkability of downtown is truly unparalleled.
Nick Renford is a seasoned traveler and parking expert who is passionate about helping people find the best parking spots and save money on parking fees. With his insider knowledge and commitment to providing trustworthy information, Nick is dedicated to empowering readers to make informed parking decisions.