Nashville Trip Idea: Tailgating in Music City

The fight songs are blaring, tickets are being purchased, trash talking is commencing. It can only mean one thing, it’s football season. Here in Nashville we take our sports very seriously. Second only to the game itself is the importance we put on tailgating. Whether you’re tailgating from the parking lot of the game, pre-gaming at a local bar, or watching the game on the big screen, we have all the information you need for game day success.

Game? What game?

Take your pick. The Tennessee Titans season kicks off early September at Nissan Stadium. We also have the SEC Vanderbilt Commodores whos season begins around the same time as the Titans. But we cheer for more than just football, the AAA Nashville Sounds last regular season game is typically at the beginning of September. Then the Nashville Predators take the ice to kick off their season around the beginning of October at Bridgestone Arena.

The Importance of the Pre-Game

Nashville’s sports stadiums (Nissan Stadium, Bridgestone Arena, and First Tennessee Park) are all within walking distance of restaurants, bars, and honky tonks. So you have a fair share of pre-game options. If you want a cold beer with a side of live music head to Rippy’s Smokin' Bar & Grill, Tin Roof Broadway, Paradise Park Trailer Resort, or Robert’s Western World. Take in Nashville’s beautiful skyline at roof top bars including Acme Feed & Seed, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, and Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery. Grab a bite to eat before or after the big game at Jack’s Bar B Que or The Southern Steak & Oyster.

Pack Your Cooler

You got the coveted tickets, you got the tailgate spot, now you just need to fill the cooler. Surprise your buddies with some local fare for a real Nashville experience. Let’s start with the brews, shall we? Pick up some local beers from Nashville breweries including Black Abbey Brewing Company, Tennessee Brew Works, TailGate Brewery, or Yazoo Brewing Company. Let others guide you and hop on the Music City Brew Tours bus for stops three local craft breweries, taprooms, and brewpubs. Or check out the Nashville Brew Bus for bus tour options and a walking tour through Nashville’s Brewer’s District. You can also pick up your choice of craft brews and fill up your growlers at places like Hops + Crafts, The Filling Station, or Hop Stop to stock up for game day. You’ll need something to soak up that beer so include some Nashville staples like hot chicken from Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, Pepperfire Hot Chicken, or Party Fowl, barbecue from Peg Leg Porker BBQ or Edley’s Bar-B-Que, some good old country grinds from Puckett’s Grocery, or pick up some subs from Mitchell Deli.

Watching on the Big Screen

We can’t all make it to the actual game, so the next best thing is to watch live with fellow fans. Nashville has a plethora of sports bars that will make you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action. Check out Barlines, or Buffalo's Billiard Parlor for live coverage of big games, as well as great food and libations.

Time To Recover

All good things must come to an end, but before you hit the road after your epic sports-filled weekend in Music City fuel up with caffeine and carbs at one of Nashville’s breakfast and brunch spots. Coffee shops like Fido, Frothy Monkey, and Crema also have a delicious breakfast menu. For a traditional meal head to Loveless Cafe, Pancake Pantry, or for a more upscale brunch head to Tavern, Urban Grub, Josephine, or Saint Anejo.