Everything to know about Nashville in fall

As a Nashville native, I can confidently say there’s no better time to visit this city than in the fall. Take it from me—this is when my town shines the most, and the cooler weather brings out the best in everyone down south.

If you're into football, join the crowd at a Titans game—a high-energy experience you won't forget. If you'd rather take it easy, you can wander through gardens or find a cozy corner at a local coffee shop. Or take a the drive down the Natchez Trace Parkway to see the one of the world's best displays of colorful fall foliage.

That's just a small preview of what I'm about to share in my insider’s guide.

Set in the heart of Nashville, the 55-acre Cheekwood Estate & Gardens dates back to the 1930s. In the fall, the historic estate and its botanical gardens are transformed with a spectacle of colors.

What I adore most in this season is the annual Cheekwood Harvest, where there are more than 75,000 pumpkins in the meticulously crafted Pumpkin Village, a dazzling array of chrysanthemums, and festive scarecrows guarding the scene.

There’s so much to see here. Don’t miss the Sigourney Cheek Literary Garden. I love this quiet space where the fall colors frame a peaceful reading nook.

Tip: Before heading to Cheekwood, stop by Belle Meade for a picnic basket filled with local food—perfect for enjoying on the sprawling lawns under a canopy of fall foliage.

If you’re searching for the most breathtaking fall colors, no place is as striking as the Natchez Trace Parkway, which stretches over 440 miles from Nashville all the way to Natchez, Mississippi. This historic trail winds through forests and rolling hills, each turn revealing a new vista painted with fiery reds, vivid oranges, and golden yellows.

One of my favorite spots is Jackson Falls, a short trail leading to a waterfall set in the colorful foliage—it’s a great spot for a mid-drive picnic. Looking to capture the season’s essence in a single frame? The double-arched bridge at Birdsong Hollow has a breathtaking vantage point, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Tip: Grab a bite at Loveless Cafe, just off the Parkway. Its famous biscuits and country ham are the perfect comfort food after a day of exploration.

There’s nothing like the excitement of a Tennessee Titans game day. Tailgating is an art form here. Fans gather hours before kickoff, grills sizzle, and footballs fly. My tip for first-timers? Dive into tailgating with an open heart—and an empty stomach. Locals are welcoming, and sharing food is the norm, making it a great way to kick off the experience.

While there’s not a bad seat in the house, I’m partial to the lower-level sidelines around sections 133 to 137. You’ll be close to the action—you can see the players’ expressions, hear the hits, and feel like you’re a part of the game.

Tip: Skip the standard fare and head straight for the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich at the concession near section 112. It’s spicy and crunchy and encapsulates the spirit of Nashville. Paired with a cold local brew, you have the ultimate game-day feast.

With its blend of Southern hospitality and an artisanal approach to brewing, Nashville’s coffee scene is one-of-a-kind. And it’s not just about the drink; it’s about the experience—cozy interiors, friendly baristas, and fall-themed beverages that debut each year.

First on my go-to list is Barista Parlor, which has wide-open spaces and an industrial-chic decor. The Bourbon Vanilla Latte, with its rich notes of bourbon and sweet vanilla, is my fall favorite—it’s like autumn in a cup. Frothy Monkey has a homey ambiance that’ll make you want to stay all day. Their seasonal Pumpkin Spice Latte, made with real pumpkin and a blend of spices, pairs perfectly with a crisp fall morning. Crema, a spot revered by coffee lovers, focuses on the art and science of coffee. The autumn special is the Caramel Apple Latte.

Tip: Whatever you do, don’t miss the Black-owned Coffee House at Second and Bridge—it’s a testament to community and culture. The Spiced Sweet Potato Latte is a must-try, embodying the innovative spirit of Nashville’s coffee scene with its warm take on fall flavors.

Boo Night at the Zoo is one of Nashville’s most enchanting fall traditions and a personal favorite. This isn’t just another Halloween event; the Nashville Zoo transforms into a whimsical playground for the young and the young at heart.

Imagine strolling through the zoo under the glow of twinkling lights, surrounded by playful decorations, and the occasional “roar” providing a perfectly spooky soundtrack to the evening. Trick-or-treating stations spread throughout the zoo offer sweets and a chance to see some animals up close.

There are also special animal shows that are specially curated for Boo at the Zoo, offering a rare glimpse into the nocturnal habits of some of the zoo’s most intriguing residents.

Tip: Don’t miss the hayride. You’ll explore parts of the zoo that are not usually accessible to the public.

Tennessee’s largest petting farm, Lucky Ladd Farms, brings on the adventure and charm, especially during fall. Imagine over 70 acres of farmland with pumpkins dotting the landscape.

Of course, pumpkin picking is a fall staple, but the corn maze is what truly captures my heart (and tests my sense of direction). To me, wandering through twists and turns of towering cornstalks with a cup of Lucy Ladd’s homemade apple cider is the essence of fall. And don’t miss the pumpkin slingshot. It’s a hidden gem and the most exhilarating way to enjoy your pumpkin-picking spoils.

Tip: Visit on a weekday when the farm is quieter; you’ll get extra tries at the slingshot and more personal interactions with the animals.

When I'm looking for a moment of quiet in this buzzing city, Centennial Park, right in the heart of Nashville, offers the most serene fall experience. The park’s centerpiece is the Parthenon, an urban oasis where you can take a moment of reflection and get a time out from Nashville’s bustle.

Tip: After a stroll through the park, stop by The Café at Thistle Farms on Charlotte Avenue. The seasonal pumpkin spice latte warms the soul, and its mission to empower women adds depth to your visit.