Blueeyedgirl

Nashville, TN is on our Bucket List. We are a 50ish year old couple, living in Dallas,TX. We would like to go to Nashville,TN with another couple and would like to find a Home to rent for a long 4-5 day weekend beginning March 11, 2017. #1- Is the weather ok that time of year to get out and walk? #2-What area of town is great (proximiity) for walking to great music/bar venues and restaurants (this would help us in looking for a house to rent)? #3 - is it necessary to rent a car when visiting Nashville for the first time?

BigRuss

You're from Dallas, therefore you have some knowledge of southern cities. Nashville is functionally no different - predominantly spread out, some downtown area (although its downtown has more life than Dallas's after dark), some concentration of activities near the University. It is NOT predominantly a walking city.

bachslunch

Have been to Nashville. Many folks prefer to have a car here, but I was able to use the bus while staying downtown with minimal issue.

The downtown area encompassing things like the capitol, state history museum, and the stretch of Broadway nearby is walkable.

smetz1

If you want to be able to walk to lots of music, you'll want to stay downtown, within walking distance of Broadway between say 4th St and the Cumberland River. This is where the "honkytonks" of Nashville are, and they all offer really good country music, most with a cover. There are plenty of other attractions to walk to in the downtown area, too.

Are you planning to go to the Grand Old Opry? We did, and I'd say it's something everyone should do at least once, it's such a piece of Americana, and very entertaining. It's a long way from downtown, though, so a car is useful.

If you like bluegrass, don't miss this place, it's fantastic.

http://stationinn.com/index01/

Blueeyedgirl

Thank you for your comments on lodging and transportation! That helps. Does anyone have any suggestions for wonderful places to eat? We will have 4 or 5 nights and enjoy all cuisines, except Sushi. We wouldn't mind doing a $$$$ one night, but prefer to stay $$ - $$$ the other nights.

pk305

Please note that March 8-12, 2017 downtown Nashville's Bridgestone Arena is site of SEC Men's NCAA Basketball Tournament. Of course, there's always a lot happening downtown!
Very Good restaurants-- ETCH, THE SOUTHERN, THE FARM HOUSE, TRATTORIA IL MULINO, the PALM....and so many others in areas within a few miles of downtown. Area called the GULCH is nearby and loaded with great dining spots.
You might wish to check concert schedule for The Ryman. Our favorite venue anywhere!! Be sure & go to Tootsie's...famous bar on Broadway. Nashville is a driving city, but if you want to use Uber and taxis that's a good option. Weather could be springlike or cold....like Dallas we've had unseasonably warm winter so far. We're locals and happy to make these recommendations. Have a great trip!!