Nashville Craft Cocktails & Fine Dining Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Nashville and want to enjoy a taste of its upscale food and drink scene without the hassle of figuring out where to go, then the Nashville Craft Cocktails & Fine Dining Walking Tour might just be your perfect match. This experience promises a leisurely three-hour stroll through some of Nashville’s most elegant venues, offering a curated taste of the city’s best cocktails paired with local bites. It’s a popular choice, boasting a near-perfect 5.0-star rating based on over 100 reviews, and recommended by 97% of previous participants.

What we love about this tour is how it blends the charm of Nashville’s historic and modern spaces with expert cocktail craftsmanship and quality food. Plus, the guide’s knowledge and friendly approach make the whole experience feel both relaxed and insightful. One potential consideration is that the tour is quite upscale, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a slightly more refined environment and aren’t expecting a casual pub crawl. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or anyone interested in discovering Nashville’s vibrant cocktail culture while savoring small bites in a comfortable, stylish setting.

Who would enjoy this? This experience suits those who appreciate good drinks, quality food, and a moderate pace that allows for conversation and discovery—perfect for a romantic date, a girls’ trip, or a small group of friends eager to experience the city’s finer side.

Key Points

• It’s a three-hour, small-group tour, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
• You’ll visit four carefully selected venues, each offering a unique ambiance and cocktail experience.
• The tour combines history, architecture, and art with culinary delights.
• The price includes five craft cocktails and four food samples, providing great value for the quality.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and personable style.
• The tour operates in good weather, and dress code is business casual.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experiences

Starting Point: The Hermitage Hotel

The tour kicks off inside the historic Hermitage Hotel, an iconic Nashville landmark. Here, you’ll sip a refreshing brandy milk punch as your guide shares stories about notable guests and the hotel’s storied past. This setting immediately sets a tone of elegance and history, making it clear that this is more than just a drink-hopping jaunt. The inside of the hotel itself is a highlight, with its classic architecture and refined atmosphere offering a perfect introduction.

Many reviews highlight this initial stop as a memorable way to start. One guest called it “an unforgettable experience” and appreciated the chance to sample such a signature cocktail in a setting that oozes old-world charm.

Stop 2: Deacon’s New South

Next, you’ll head to Deacon’s New South, a modern Nashville restaurant known for its creative cocktails and contemporary vibe. Here, the focus is on their twist on the classic Old Fashioned, featuring a local Nashville whiskey. The bartender smokes each drink and finishes it with a brûlée lemon—a show-stopper that combines visual flair with complex flavors. This smoking process is more than just theatrical; it enhances the drink’s depth, making each sip a little more memorable.

Paired with a duck drumette and housemade cornbread, this stop is as much about the flavors as the presentation. Many guests mention how the smoked cocktail left a lasting impression, with one reviewer noting, “we were wowed by the perfect blend of smokiness and sweetness.”

Stop 3: Ellington’s Restaurant

The third venue is Ellington’s Restaurant, perched with a view that adds a scenic backdrop to your tasting experience. Here, your seasonal craft cocktail is accompanied by local favorites: pimento cheese and homemade bagel chips from Nashville’s Bagel Shop. The pairing underscores the city’s Southern roots, with comforting, flavorful bites that complement the drinks beautifully.

Guests have raved about the setting here, emphasizing that the view and the food both contribute significantly to the experience. One reviewer exclaimed, “you can’t beat enjoying a delicious cocktail while soaking in Nashville’s skyline.”

Stop 4: The Bankers Alley Hotel & the 21c Museum Hotel

The tour concludes at the 21c Museum Hotel, a contemporary art destination that’s famous in Nashville. You’ll tour a two-story exhibit, part of the world’s largest collection of American Contemporary artwork. This free art stop adds a cultural dimension to the evening, giving you insight into Nashville’s creative side beyond music and food.

This stop has been described as “fabulous” and “a highlight” of the experience. It’s a perfect way to wind down while engaging with Nashville’s vibrant art scene.

The Value of the Experience

For $179, you’re getting not just drinks and snacks, but a curated taste of Nashville’s upscale culinary scene, guided by someone who knows the city well. The price covers five craft cocktails and four food pairings, which is quite reasonable given the quality and venues involved. The small group size—capped at 12—means you get personalized attention and plenty of opportunity to ask questions or just relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

Many reviews mention how guides add value through local insights and stories. One guest noted, “Rachel was a fun, friendly, and very knowledgeable guide,” which transforms what could be a superficial tour into something more engaging and memorable.

What Travelers Should Consider

While most reviews are glowing, some mention minor organizational hiccups, like the need for better communication or scheduling clarity. It’s important to note that the tour does not include gratuities, so budgeting for a tip is advisable. Also, the tour operates in good weather, so a rainy day might disrupt plans unless the venues can offer indoor comfort.

Practical Details That Matter

• Duration: Just about three hours, making it a manageable and enjoyable experience without feeling rushed.
• Start & End Points: Starting at the historic Hermitage Hotel and ending at the art-filled 21c Museum Hotel makes for an elegant route through Nashville’s downtown.
• Group Size: Limited to 12, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Dress Code: Business casual—think relaxed but polished.
• Weather Dependence: Mostly outdoor/venue-based, so check the forecast before booking.
• Booking & Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers flexibility.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This walking tour is a top choice for travelers who appreciate quality cocktails, delicious bites, and a bit of Nashville’s cultural flair. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed, upscale experience that combines history, art, and good company. If you’re a foodie, a cocktail enthusiast, or someone who enjoys discovering hidden gems in a city’s vibrant scene, this tour delivers on all counts.

It’s also a fine option if you want to start your Nashville visit with a memorable introduction—set in elegant venues, guided by friendly experts, and offering a taste of local hospitality. While it might not be suited for those seeking a boisterous pub crawl, it’s ideal for anyone who values ambiance, craftsmanship, and a touch of sophistication.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The tour includes alcohol, which is only served to those 21 and older. However, the venues and experience itself can be enjoyed by anyone interested in Nashville’s culture and architecture.

How many cocktails will I taste?
You will sample five craft cocktails during the tour, each paired with a small food bite.

What should I wear?
Business casual is recommended, so think neat but comfortable—perfect for walking and enjoying the venues.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.

Is food included in the price?
Yes, four food samples are included, from Nashville’s finest restaurants, complementing the cocktails.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at The Hermitage Hotel and ends at the 21c Museum Hotel Nashville, making it easy to continue exploring downtown afterward.

In the end, this Nashville Craft Cocktails & Fine Dining Walking Tour offers a taste of the city’s elegance and flavors in only three hours. Perfect for those who want a curated experience blending history, art, and culinary craft, it’s a memorable way to start or elevate your Nashville adventure.