CMA Fest 2026 Nashville: Airports, Hotels & Getting Around

TL;DR: CMA Fest 2026 runs June 4–7 in downtown Nashville with free daytime stages and nightly stadium shows. Fly into BNA, book downtown lodging early, and plan to walk or use shuttles/rideshare since parking is limited. Expect hot June weather, large crowds, and a clear bag policy at venues.

Overview of CMA Fest 2026

CMA Fest 2026 takes place June 4-7, 2026 in downtown Nashville, Tennessee. It’s one of the world’s biggest and longest-running country music festivals (dating back to 1972). Each year, tens of thousands of country music fans from around the world flock to Nashville recent festivals have drawn over 80,000 attendees every year (with daily attendance often around 90,000 people). The festival features four days and nights of live country music on multiple stages across downtown. By day, you can catch free concerts at spots like Riverfront Park, Walk of Fame Park, Bridgestone Plaza, and more. Each evening, superstar headliners perform at ticketed stadium shows (Nissan Stadium) along with other ticketed venues like Ascend Amphitheater and Fan Fair X in the Music City Center. In short, Nashville transforms into a country music playground during CMA Fest with endless performances, fan events, and an electric atmosphere citywide.

With such huge crowds and events spread over downtown, it’s crucial to plan your travel and logistics. This guide will help both local attendees and visitors (domestic and international) navigate the festival: from airports and car rentals to hotels, transportation, parking, and local attractions. Read on for tips to make the most of CMA Fest 2026 while smoothly getting around Music City.

Getting to Nashville (Airports & Arrival)

For most travelers, the easiest way to reach CMA Fest is flying into Nashville International Airport (BNA) the city’s primary airport. BNA is located about 8 miles (13 km) east of downtown Nashville, roughly a 15-minute drive without heavy traffic. It’s a busy airport with numerous nonstop domestic flights and even some international routes (for example, direct flights from London and Toronto have operated in recent years). If you’re coming from abroad or far away, plan to arrive through BNA it’s by far the most convenient airport for the festival. (Alternate airports like Huntsville, AL or Chattanooga, TN are over 100 miles away and not practical for CMA Fest.)

Airport to Downtown Transportation: Once you land at BNA, you have several options to reach downtown Nashville and the CMA Fest area:

• Rideshare or Taxi: Catching an Uber/Lyft or taxi from the airport is quick and easy. The ride to downtown is about 15-20 minutes in normal conditions. Expect to pay roughly $25-$35 for a standard ride to the downtown/Broadway area under typical demand (prices can spike higher at peak times or late nights). Ride-app pickups are done at designated zones in the Ground Transportation area of the terminal just follow the signs for Rideshare. Taxis are also available 24/7 in the ground transportation lot, with a similar approximate rate (some have flat fares around $30 from BNA to downtown).
• Airport Shuttle Services: Budget-conscious travelers or groups can use shared airport shuttles that run between BNA and downtown hotels. Several shuttle companies have kiosks at BNA’s ground transportation center. A shuttle van may cost around $15-$20 per person one-way and will make multiple stops. Travel time can be 30-45 minutes depending on stops and traffic. This can be a good value if you’re not renting a car and your hotel doesn’t provide its own airport shuttle.
• Public Transit: Nashville’s public bus system (WeGo Transit) operates the Route 18 Airport/Downtown bus from BNA to downtown’s Music City Central hub. The city bus costs only a few dollars (around $2 each way) and runs roughly every hour. It’s an economical option if you pack light and don’t mind a ~30 minute ride. WeGo also sometimes offers an express airport bus with limited stops that can reach downtown in about 15-20 minutes. Check the WeGo Transit site or Route 18 schedule for up-to-date times. Keep in mind you’ll need to get from the downtown bus stop to your lodging, so this works best if you’re staying centrally or can grab a short rideshare from the bus station.
• Hotel Shuttles: Some Nashville hotels offer complimentary airport shuttles for guests. It’s worth checking with your hotel in advance especially larger chain hotels or those near the airport to see if they provide an airport pickup service. If so, this can save you money and hassle. Be sure to confirm pickup locations and times with the hotel.

If you live within a few hours’ drive or are embarking on a road trip, driving is also an option. Nashville is intersected by three major interstates: I-65 (north-south route through the city), I-40 (east-west), and I-24 (southeast-northwest). For example, Nashville is roughly a 3-hour drive from Memphis (west via I-40), 4 hours from Atlanta (south via I-75/I-24), and 2.5 hours from Louisville (north via I-65). Parking during CMA Fest is the biggest challenge for drivers more on that below but if you’re coming from nearby or renting a car for a wider Tennessee trip, driving can give you flexibility. Just plan for extra traffic as you approach the city and especially near downtown (see “Getting Around” next for road closure info).

Navigating Nashville During CMA Fest

Once you’re in Nashville, getting around the city during CMA Fest requires some savvy. Downtown Nashville will be buzzing with pedestrians, street closures, and heavy traffic during the festival. Here’s how to handle transportation on the ground:

• Walking (Downtown Foot Travel): The CMA Fest footprint in downtown is fairly compact roughly a 2-square-mile area encompassing Broadway, Nissan Stadium, and the Riverfront. Walking is by far the easiest and most efficient way to get around the festival venues. Many streets (especially Lower Broadway and around Riverfront Park) become pedestrian-only or highly congested during event hours. If you’re staying downtown or nearby, plan to walk to stages and events whenever possible. For example, you can walk across the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge over the Cumberland River to reach Nissan Stadium from downtown it’s a scenic footbridge that lets you avoid road traffic. Other bridges like Woodland Street or Korean Veterans Blvd also have pedestrian walkways. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes; you’ll likely rack up thousands of steps each day exploring the different stages and activities.
• CMA Fest Shuttles: Festival organizers typically provide free CMA Fest shuttle buses connecting major venues. In 2025, shuttles ran daily from 9:00 AM until 1:00 AM between the Riverfront area downtown and Nissan Stadium, with stops on both sides of the river. We expect a similar shuttle service in 2026. All shuttle stops are ADA-accessible, and they’re a great way to hop between the daytime stage areas and the stadium for nightly concerts without having to trek on foot every time. Look for signs or info in the official CMA Fest app about Shuttle Pickup/Drop-off locations in past years these included spots like 6th Avenue & Demonbreun (downtown) and near S. 1st Street by Nissan Stadium. The shuttles are free for festival attendees and run continuously, so take advantage of them especially if you need to save your feet or cross the river.
• Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) and Taxis: Outside of walking and shuttles, using rideshare services is the recommended way to get around town during CMA Fest. Downtown parking is extremely limited and traffic can be a mess, so driving yourself each day isn’t ideal. Uber and Lyft are plentiful in Nashville and can whisk you between your accommodations, attractions, and festival sites. The city sets up designated rideshare pick-up/drop-off zones during CMA Fest to keep things orderly. For instance, in 2025 rideshare zones were along Korean Veterans Boulevard (from 1st to 7th Ave) and near Nissan Stadium’s Interstate Drive. Follow signs to these pickup areas when hailing a ride your app will also direct you to the approved spot. A pro tip is to expect surge pricing and some waits right after the nightly Nissan Stadium concert ends (tens of thousands of people will be requesting rides at once). If you’re not in a rush, you might hang out downtown for a bit or walk a few blocks away from the immediate Broadway area for a smoother pickup. Also note that taxis operate in the city, but rideshare apps tend to be more prevalent and convenient.
• Public Transit: Besides the dedicated shuttles, Nashville’s public WeGo buses can help you move around if needed. However, service frequency is limited and routes might be affected by road closures. One notable option: on the Saturday of CMA Fest, WeGo often runs a special Music City Star commuter train from the eastern suburbs into downtown (from Lebanon to Riverfront Station) timed for the stadium concert. In 2025, the train left Lebanon at 4 PM and arrived downtown by 5 PM for the evening show. This could be useful if you happen to be staying east of town or want to avoid traffic that day. Otherwise, most visitors will rely on walking and rideshare more than city buses/trains during the fest.
• Driving and Parking: If you do have a car in Nashville (or you’re local and driving in each day), plan your parking strategy in advance. Many downtown streets will be closed or restricted for festival events and pedestrian zones. Parking near Nissan Stadium requires pre-purchased passes in fact, no general parking is sold on-site at the stadium during CMA Fest. A limited number of stadium lot parking passes are typically sold via Ticketmaster ahead of time, but they can be pricey and sell out fast. A better approach is to use downtown public parking garages or lots and then walk/shuttle to the events. The festival recommends using apps like SpotHero to reserve parking in advance. You can book a spot in a garage near the festival footprint for each day this guarantees you a space and can actually save money versus drive-up rates. For example, the Metro Courthouse Garage offers a 4-day CMA Fest parking pass for around $140 total (with in-and-out privileges), or about $20 per day for single-day parking. There are many garages downtown, and Nashville’s Downtown Partnership website provides an interactive parking map with real-time availability. Expect daily parking to cost roughly $20-$30 in most lots during the festival. Arrive early if you’re driving spots will fill up by late morning each day. Once parked, you’re better off leaving the car put until you’re done, as re-parking will be tough. Also note that street parking in the downtown core is mostly off-limits or not recommended during CMA Fest due to restrictions and the risk of towing or ticketing. In summary, if you can avoid driving, do so but if not, secure your parking ahead of time and use your feet or rideshare to get around downtown from there.

Scooters, bikes, and similar devices are not allowed inside the CMA Fest event areas. Nashville normally has shared electric scooters (e.g. Lime, Bird) around town, but festival policy prohibits scooters, bicycles, skateboards, hoverboards, etc. within the official CMA Fest footprint. Security will not let you bring them into venues. So while you might see scooters in other parts of the city, don’t plan on using one to zip between stages you’ll need to walk or rideshare instead. (If you do ride a scooter outside the event, you’ll have to park it well outside the perimeter.)

Locals attending CMA Fest are advised to consider not driving downtown if possible use a rideshare or carpool and get dropped off a few blocks away, then walk. Visitors should leverage the downtown location by walking from nearby hotels or using the festival shuttles. Nashville’s road closures and massive crowds can turn a short drive into an hour of gridlock, so it’s often faster (and certainly less stressful) to leave the car behind during festival hours.

Car Rentals for CMA Fest (Solo vs. Group Travelers)

Should you rent a car? The answer depends on your plans and lodging. If you’re staying in downtown Nashville or near the CMA Fest action, you actually might not need a car at all for the festival days many out-of-town attendees manage with just walking and the occasional Uber. Nashville’s main attractions and the CMA Fest venues are largely centralized, so a car can end up sitting parked while you explore on foot. In fact, local experts say if your focus is just the concerts and Broadway nightlife, it’s often cheapest and easiest to skip the rental car, take a taxi/rideshare from the airport, and then walk or rideshare around. This saves you hefty parking fees and rental costs.

However, there are scenarios where renting a vehicle makes sense:

• Exploring Beyond Downtown: Nashville has a lot to offer outside the immediate downtown core from the Grand Ole Opry (about 10 miles east) to neighborhoods like East Nashville, The Gulch, 12 South, and more. If you plan to do significant sightseeing, day trips, or visit areas not served by easy public transit, having a car gives you freedom to roam on your own schedule. For example, you might want to drive out to the Opry Mills area for a show at the Opry House or visit the Belle Meade Plantation on the outskirts. International visitors who want to explore Tennessee or nearby states before/after CMA Fest will also benefit from a car.
• Staying Outside the City Center: Some travelers choose accommodations farther out (to save money or due to late booking). If your hotel or rental is in the suburbs or by the airport, a car may be the most practical way to commute in for the festival each day. In that case, be prepared to deal with parking downtown (as discussed above) or consider driving to a park-and-ride area then using rideshare for the last leg.
• Group and Family Travel: If you’re coming with a family or a group of friends, a rental car can actually be cost-effective. Splitting a car between 4 people could be cheaper than four separate rideshare trips, especially for airport transfers or any outings beyond downtown. It also gives you a convenient way to carry any extra gear (strollers, coolers for the road, etc. though remember, coolers won’t be allowed inside festival venues). Families with young kids might appreciate having a private vehicle for flexibility and car-seat safety, rather than needing a larger rideshare each time.

If you do decide on a rental car, here are some tips:

• Book Early: CMA Fest is a huge event, and Nashville in early June is a busy travel time. Rental car demand will be high. Reserve your vehicle as early as possible (weeks or even a few months ahead) to ensure availability and better rates. Last-minute rentals could be expensive or sold out, especially for larger vehicles or specialty cars.
• Airport vs. City Pickup: The most convenient place to rent is Nashville Airport’s Rental Car Facility, which houses all major rental companies (accessible via a short walk from the terminal). You can land, grab your bags, and pick up a car quickly by following signs to the rental center in Terminal Garage 1. Alternatively, many rental agencies also have branches in downtown Nashville and various neighborhoods. If you don’t need a car for the whole trip, you could take a rideshare into the city and later rent a car for a day trip by visiting a local rental office. There are rental locations in areas like West End, Midtown, and Cool Springs, etc.. This flexibility might save some money on days you don’t use a car.
• Choosing the Right Vehicle: Think about your group size and luggage. For solo travelers or couples, an economy or intermediate car is usually sufficient these smaller cars are fuel-efficient, easier to maneuver downtown, and generally the most affordable. In fact, mid-size cars are among the most popular rentals in Nashville because they’re “not too big, not too small” perfect for 2-4 people and easier to park in the city. If you have a larger group or family, consider renting an SUV or minivan so everyone (and their bags) fits comfortably. A 7-passenger minivan or large SUV can be ideal for groups of 5-7. Just remember that bigger vehicles may face more difficulty in tight downtown parking garages. Also, almost all rentals will be automatic transmission in the US, which is helpful for international visitors unfamiliar with driving stick.
• Costs and Insurance: Expect daily rental rates in Nashville to vary based on car type and timing roughly anywhere from $50/day for a small car to $100+/day for SUVs during CMA Fest, before insurance and taxes. Budget for gas (petrol) as well currently around $3-$4 per gallon in Tennessee. Check if your personal auto insurance or credit card covers rental insurance; if not, you may want to purchase the rental company’s coverage for peace of mind since city driving and tight parking during an event can increase chances of dings.
• Parking the Rental: As covered, parking downtown is challenging. If your hotel offers free parking, take advantage of that and leave the car there while you Uber or walk around. If not, be ready to pay nightly parking fees at hotels or garages (which can be $20-$45 per night in downtown Nashville). Factor that into your decision to rent or not. And absolutely avoid leaving anything valuable visible in the car when parked.

In summary, rent a car only if it truly adds value to your CMA Fest experience. Many attendees find they don’t use a car enough to justify the cost and hassle if staying downtown. But for those with broader itineraries or staying further out, a rental car can enhance your trip just plan your driving route, vehicle choice, and parking strategy accordingly. As a middle ground, you might rely on rideshares during the festival days, and rent a car for a day or two before/after CMA Fest to explore beyond Nashville’s core.

Where to Stay (Lodging Tips for CMA Fest)

Finding the right accommodations is a big part of planning your CMA Fest trip. Nashville offers everything from high-end hotels to budget motels and vacation rentals but rooms fill up fast for the festival. Here’s what to know:

• Book Early: With hundreds of thousands of people coming for CMA Fest, hotels sell out months in advance. As soon as you know you’re going, reserve your lodging. Downtown hotels, in particular, get snapped up quickly by returning festival-goers. If you wait too long, you may be left with distant options or very high prices. Many properties allow reservation cancellations up to a certain date, so it’s wise to lock in a room early and you can always adjust later if needed.
• Stay Downtown if Possible: The prime locations for CMA Fest are Downtown and SoBro (South of Broadway) essentially anywhere within walking distance of Broadway, Nissan Stadium, and the Riverfront. By staying downtown, you can walk to all festival venues, which is a huge convenience (no transit logistics to worry about). Of course, downtown hotels will also be the most expensive, often with special event rates. Key downtown hotels to consider (if available) include the Omni Nashville, Hilton Downtown, Renaissance, JW Marriott, Hyatt Centric, Cambria Hotel, and similar many of these are within a few blocks of the action. Another downtown option is renting a condo/apartment via Airbnb or local vacation rental companies; just verify the location is central (some listings might say “downtown” but are a drive away). If you snag a place downtown, you can come and go from the festival easily for breaks, and you’ll be right in the middle of Nashville’s nightlife after the shows.
• Consider Nearby Neighborhoods: If downtown prices are out of reach or sold out, look at nearby areas that are a short ride or longer walk away. For example:
• The Gulch a trendy neighborhood about 1 mile from Broadway, with boutique hotels (Thompson, W Hotel) and lots of restaurants. It’s walkable to downtown in 15-20 minutes or a quick shuttle/rideshare.
• Midtown/West End near Vanderbilt University (2-3 miles from downtown). Hotels here (like Hampton Inn Midtown, Hutton Hotel, Marriott at Vanderbilt) tend to be slightly cheaper than core downtown and you can take a short Uber (5-10 min) to the festival each day.
• East Nashville across the river but not far. This hip area has some rentals and smaller inns. If you stay in East Nashville, you could potentially walk to Nissan Stadium or take very short rideshares, but getting to the west side of downtown (Broadway) would involve crossing the river (still just a couple miles).
• Music Valley/Opryland Area about 10 miles east of downtown, around the Grand Ole Opry and Opryland Resort. There are many hotels here (often more affordable and with free parking). The downside is you’ll need to drive or shuttle 15-20 minutes to downtown. Some CMA Fest visitors do stay out here to save money; just factor in that you won’t be in the thick of downtown action and will rely on a car or rideshare. The Gaylord Opryland Resort itself is a destination hotel with pools and amenities could be fun if you want a resort experience, but again, you’ll commute to CMA Fest.
• Airport Hotels (BNA area): The area around the airport (Donelson area) has numerous chain hotels often at lower rates than downtown. It’s roughly 8-10 miles from the festival. These can work if you rent a car or plan to Uber, but daily traffic in from the airport can be congested at peak times. Some airport hotels may provide shuttles into downtown for guests during big events it’s worth asking.
• Vacation Rentals: Nashville has lots of vacation rental homes and condos (Airbnb, VRBO, etc.), especially in neighborhoods like Germantown, 12 South, East Nashville, and The Gulch. These can be great for groups who want multiple bedrooms or a kitchen. Just pay attention to location you’ll want a place relatively close to downtown or at least near a shuttle route. Also note that short-term rentals inside the downtown core are fewer (due to regulations), so many “downtown” listings might actually be across the river or a mile or two away. Check the map and plan how you’d get to the festival. If you find a rental near a place like Germantown or Marathon Village, for instance, you might have to take a 5-10 minute Uber, which is still quite convenient.
• Amenities to Look For: Given the nature of CMA Fest (long days, lots of walking, summer heat), it’s nice to have certain amenities at your accommodation. On-site parking can be important if you’re driving (some downtown hotels only offer valet at high fees, and vacation rentals may have limited street parking). A free breakfast or evening reception is a perk to fuel up before you head out. Pools can be a lifesaver in June many travelers enjoy cooling off with a swim in the afternoon before heading to the night concert. And if you’re renting an Airbnb, having laundry facilities might be useful to wash out sweaty clothes mid-trip.
• Safety & Proximity: During CMA Fest, downtown Nashville is generally very lively and populated into the late night, especially around Broadway. If you stay centrally, you’ll be walking among crowds which feels safe. Still, basic precautions apply as in any city (travel in groups at night when possible, stay in well-lit areas). If your lodging is a bit further (say, across the river or in a quieter part of downtown), you might opt for a quick rideshare back at night rather than walking alone. Fortunately, the festival and city usually have an increased police presence and a lot of fellow festival-goers around, so the atmosphere is tourist-friendly.

In short, the closer to downtown, the better but book what fits your budget. Many repeat CMA Fest visitors actually reserve next year’s hotel as they check out this year! If you’re struggling to find availability, expand your search radius in Nashville, and don’t be afraid to stay a few miles out if it means a reasonable rate just plan for that transportation. No matter where you stay, you’ll be able to enjoy the festival; it’s just a question of convenience versus cost. And remember, you really will only be in your room to sleep and shower the rest of the time you’ll be out experiencing the music!

Attractions & Things to Do Near CMA Fest

While country music will likely dominate your schedule, be sure to leave a little time to experience Nashville’s attractions beyond the CMA Fest stages. Music City is rich in culture, history, and fun. Here are some top sights and activities to consider before, during, or after the festival:

• Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum: A must-visit for country fans, located right in downtown near Broadway. This expansive museum chronicles country music’s history with memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and the famous Hall of Fame rotunda honoring the genre’s legends. Plan 2-3 hours to see Elvis’s gold Cadillac, Patsy Cline’s costumes, and much more. It’s a great daytime escape (and air-conditioned break from the heat).
• Ryman Auditorium: Known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” the Ryman is a historic concert hall dating back to 1892. It hosted the Grand Ole Opry for decades and has seen performances from virtually every country icon. By day, you can take a guided tour of the Ryman to stand on the storied stage and even see the backstage dressing rooms. Many evenings the Ryman also hosts shows check if any special concerts or Opry events coincide with CMA Fest week. The Ryman is just off Broadway, so easily accessible.
• Grand Ole Opry House: If you’re staying in town a bit longer, consider catching a show at the Grand Ole Opry House (about a 15-minute drive from downtown). The Opry is the famed live radio show that runs weekly, showcasing a mix of country superstars and newcomers. During CMA Fest, they often schedule extra Opry performances. You can also do a daytime backstage tour of the Opry House to see the stage up close and get a behind-the-scenes look at this legendary venue. (Note: the Opry House is at Opryland, separate from CMA Fest venues, so you’d need a car or rideshare to get there.)
• Broadway & Honky Tonk Bars: Even when CMA Fest concerts pause, the party keeps going on Lower Broadway. This strip of honky-tonk bars and live music venues is world-famous. Iconic spots like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, Roberts Western World, Legends Corner, and Ole Red will have live bands from morning till late night. During CMA Fest, Broadway is jam-packed with country music lovers bar-hopping. It’s worth experiencing the honky-tonk scene at least one night you can dance and sing along with house bands playing country classics and today’s hits. Just know it will be crowded and loud but that’s part of the fun! If you prefer a slightly calmer vibe, check out venues a block or two off Broadway or in Printer’s Alley for jazz/blues.
• Johnny Cash Museum & Patsy Cline Museum: On 3rd Avenue downtown, you’ll find the excellent Johnny Cash Museum (with the Patsy Cline Museum just upstairs). The Cash Museum holds the largest collection of Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia in the world, from guitars and stage outfits to handwritten lyrics. It’s a relatively small but dense museum you can walk through in an hour or so and come away with a deep appreciation for the “Man in Black.” If you’re a classic country fan, this is a must. The Patsy Cline Museum (separate admission) gives insight into another country legend’s life and career. These museums open in the morning, so it could be a great pre-festival activity one day.
• The Goo Goo Chocolate Shop: A uniquely Nashville stop for those with a sweet tooth. Goo Goo Clusters (a type of candy) were invented in Nashville over 100 years ago. At the Goo Goo Shop on 3rd Ave, you can taste the original cluster or gourmet variations, watch chocolate being made, and even design your own candy bar in their “Goo Goo experience” kitchen class. It’s a fun, quick stop near Broadway and a nice gift to take home.
• The Parthenon & Centennial Park: If you want a break from music, take a trip to Centennial Park (about 2 miles west of downtown) to see Nashville’s full-scale replica of the Greek Parthenon. Yes, Nashville has a life-size Parthenon, complete with a 42-foot statue of Athena inside! It was built in 1897 and is now an art museum and iconic photo op. The park around it is lovely for a stroll or picnic. This could be a relaxing outing if you have a free morning. You can reach Centennial Park via a short taxi or by the city bus (or driving if you have a car).
• 12 South Neighborhood: This is a hip district a few miles south of downtown known for its boutique shops, murals (like the famous “I Believe in Nashville” mural), and great eateries. If you have an afternoon free, you could wander 12 South to do some shopping (Draper James, White’s Mercantile, etc.) and grab Nashville’s signature hot chicken at Edley’s BBQ or Hot Chicken at Hattie B’s (Hattie B’s is actually in Midtown, not 12 South, but not far). It’s a nice taste of local Nashville beyond the tourist core.
• Germantown & Farmers’ Market: North of downtown lies Germantown, a historic area with beautiful architecture and some fantastic restaurants and coffee shops. Adjacent to Germantown is the Nashville Farmers’ Market (open daily), where you can browse local food vendors, produce, and crafts. During CMA Fest, there might not be specific events there, but it’s a cool spot to explore if you want a change of scenery especially in the morning or early afternoon before the main music kicks off.
• Museums and Other Music History: If you have more time or specific interests, consider the Musicians Hall of Fame (honoring musicians from all genres; downtown near the capitol), or even a tour of Historic RCA Studio B on Music Row where Elvis and Dolly Parton recorded hits. These attractions deepen your understanding of Nashville’s rich musical heritage.

Given the intensity of CMA Fest, you might not fit in all these extras but even one or two will enrich your trip. Many CMA Fest veterans like to come a day early or stay a day after to sightsee when they’re not rushing to concerts. Whatever you do, soak up the Nashville vibe: the hospitality, the mix of modern city and country charm, and of course the incredible music history on every corner.

Tips for a Smooth CMA Fest Experience

To round out your travel guide, here are some additional tips and local insights to help you navigate CMA Fest 2026 like a pro:

• Prepare for the Weather: Nashville in early June is hot and humid be ready for summer conditions. Average high temperatures in June are around 85-90°F (30-32°C) with plenty of humidity. It can feel “very warm and sticky” during the day, and nights stay warm (upper 60s°F/around 20°C). Stay hydrated bring a refillable water bottle (the festival provides water refill stations throughout the grounds). Apply sunscreen generously and wear a hat or cap to protect from the sun. Lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes are a must (you’ll be walking and standing for hours). Afternoon thunderstorms are also not uncommon in Tennessee summers, so a packable rain poncho or umbrella could save you if a sudden shower pops up. Check the forecast each morning so you can dress accordingly or stash rain gear if needed.
• Festival Entry & Bag Policy:CMA Fest follows a clear bag policy at all official venues. That means any bag you bring (backpack, purse, etc.) must be a clear plastic or vinyl bag no larger than 12″ x 12″ x 6″. You’re allowed a small clutch or wallet (about palm-sized) for personal items, but otherwise plan to use a transparent tote or stadium-approved clear backpack. This policy is strictly enforced for security. Also, prohibited items include the usual suspects: outside alcohol, large coolers, weapons, drones, selfie sticks, large umbrellas, folding chairs, and even inflatable pool toys (yes, people have tried). Check the official CMA Fest FAQ for the complete list of banned items. In short, pack light when you head to the festival each day your phone, wallet, sunscreen, water bottle, and maybe a portable charger/fan. There are merchandise stands and food vendors everywhere, so you don’t need to carry much in.
• Stay Connected: Download the official CMA Connect app on your smartphone. This app is incredibly handy it contains festival lineups, stage schedules, maps, and real-time updates. You can customize your own schedule in the app, so you get notified about the shows you don’t want to miss. The app also often includes an interactive map that shows stage locations and things like water stations, first aid, etc. Enable push notifications the organizers will send out any important alerts (like weather delays or pop-up events) through the app. Additionally, the app has info on free activities, sponsor booths with giveaways, and more. It’s basically your digital CMA Fest guidebook.
• Getting Around the Festival: As mentioned, walking is king. Do allow extra time to move between stages the distances aren’t huge, but crowds can slow you down. For example, walking from Riverfront Stage to Nissan Stadium might normally take 15 minutes, but with thick crowds it could be 30 minutes or more. Factor this in if you’re hopping from a daytime show to the stadium at night. Build in breaks it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Nashville’s downtown has plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafes (many with air conditioning) where you can duck in for a rest and a bite. A lot of people take an afternoon break back at their hotel if it’s close by, to recharge before evening shows. If you need a quieter spot, the Music City Center (where Fan Fair X is held) provides an indoor respite with some seating and shade (with a Fan Fair X ticket or four-day pass).
• Food & Drink: You won’t go hungry at CMA Fest. There are food trucks and vendors at practically every stage area you can grab barbecue, burgers, hot chicken, pizza, and more. Prices are typical festival rates, so consider eating a big breakfast or dinner outside the fest to save money. Also, Nashville’s local restaurants often run specials during CMA Fest. If you want to try Nashville’s famous hot chicken, some legendary spots downtown include Prince’s Hot Chicken (inside Assembly Food Hall) or Hattie B’s (in Midtown). For BBQ, Peg Leg Porker in The Gulch is a short trip and highly rated. And don’t forget to enjoy some authentic Nashville hot fried catfish or meat-and-three if you get the chance it’s Southern comfort food at its best. One tip: lines at Broadway area restaurants will be long at normal meal times, but during the nightly stadium shows (when many fans are at Nissan Stadium), the downtown restaurants might be less crowded that could be a great time to slip out for dinner if you’re not at the stadium that night.
• Nightly Exits: After the big concerts at Nissan Stadium end (~11:30 pm each night), there’s a huge outflow of people. This is where your post-concert transport plan matters. If you’re walking back to a downtown hotel, stay on well-lit main routes and walk with the crowd it’s generally safe and there will be police directing pedestrians at intersections. If you plan to rideshare, recall the tip to possibly walk a couple blocks away from the immediate stadium or Broadway area for pickup. Alternatively, sometimes people stick around downtown for a late-night bite or drink to let the crowds die down. Broadway’s honky tonks are still open after the stadium show, and you might catch surprise artist appearances at bars (you never know during CMA Fest!). Just pace yourself if you go out late tomorrow has more music!
• For International Visitors: Nashville is very welcoming to international travelers, and CMA Fest draws fans from all over (UK, Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia you’ll meet people from everywhere). English is the primary language, and most festival staff and vendors will speak at least some basic Spanish as well. U.S. currency (USD) is used; credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and official festival vendors. In fact, CMA Fest is a cashless event at official venues in recent years so you’ll need to use card or mobile pay for buying drinks, food, or merch on-site. This is important to note if you’re used to carrying cash have a Visa/Mastercard or use Apple Pay/Google Pay for transactions. Tipping etiquette: it’s customary to tip bartenders, restaurant waitstaff, and ride/share drivers in the U.S. (around 15-20% at restaurants, a dollar or two per drink at bars, and for Uber/Lyft you can tip in-app).
• Safety & Health: Nashville in June means high UV index don’t skimp on sunscreen. Also, if you’re sensitive to heat, consider bringing a small portable fan or cooling towel. Keep yourself hydrated (we can’t say it enough) and take advantage of any misting tents or shade areas the festival provides. In terms of personal safety, use common sense downtown will be very crowded, so keep your valuables secure (perhaps use a belt bag or cross-body under your clear bag so it’s not easily snatched). There is usually a significant police and event security presence if you have any issues, you can approach them or find an information booth for assistance. Nashville EMTs and first aid stations are on-site too for any medical needs.
• Enjoy the Community: One of the best parts of CMA Fest is the camaraderie among fans. Don’t hesitate to chat with folks next to you at a show or in line for a drink people are generally friendly and excited to share the experience. You might get tips on a pop-up show happening, or make new friends that you see year after year. Nashvillians (the locals) are proud of their city and often happy to help with directions or recommendations if you ask nicely. The festival also supports a good cause proceeds benefit music education via the CMA Foundation so everyone’s there to have fun and also give back.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle CMA Fest 2026. Plan ahead, stay flexible, and soak up the Music City atmosphere. Whether it’s your first CMA Fest or your tenth, Nashville always has a way of delivering unforgettable moments. Enjoy every minute of the music and the city!

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