Haunted Nashville Night Walking Tour: Ryman, Hermitage & Printer's Alley Ghost Stories
Step into downtown Nashville after dark with a costumed guide and lantern in hand. This 90-minute walking tour pairs local history—Civil War graves, the Hermitage Hotel’s Lady in White, and backstage tales at the Ryman—with practical tips for photographing and navigating the city at night.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring a charged phone or camera
Guides give a short primer on ghost-hunting photography; low-light shots work best during blue hour or after dark.
Wear closed-toe walking shoes
Route is on sidewalks and steps—comfortable shoes keep the evening pleasant.
Dress in layers
Night temperatures can drop quickly, especially in spring and fall—bring a light jacket.
Mind memorials and private property
Respect plaques, graves, and hotel entrances—the tour tells stories without entering private rooms.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet courtyard behind the Hermitage Hotel for a calmer view of its architecture
- •Hidden plaques and small memorials on the State Capitol grounds—less-visited but rich with stories
Wildlife
- •Urban raccoons that forage near alleys at night
- •Bats and night-flying insects around older buildings after dusk
Conservation Note
Stay on sidewalks and respect memorials and private property; avoid trespassing into historic rooms and minimize flash photography in sensitive areas.
Nashville’s downtown is layered with Civil War history, the rise of country music at venues like the Ryman, and a 20th-century nightlife economy that produced Printer’s Alley’s colorful past.
Photographer's Notes
- • Front steps and façade of the Hermitage Hotel
- • State Capitol grounds near Polk’s tomb and the Andrew Jackson statue
- • Entrance to Printer’s Alley and the Ryman Auditorium exterior
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Provides traction and comfort on city sidewalks and occasional steps.
Light jacket or layersEssential
Evening temperatures can drop; layers keep you comfortable during outdoor storytelling.
Phone with camera & extra batteryEssential
Low-light shots and note-taking during the primer; a backup battery preserves battery life.
Small flashlight or headlamp
Useful for reading maps and navigating stairs in dim areas, though guides carry lanterns.
Common Questions
Where do we meet the tour?
Meet at the corner of 6th Avenue North and Union Street, across from the Hermitage Hotel; guides wear Victorian costumes and carry lanterns.
Is the tour kid-friendly?
Children are allowed; the content includes historical ghost stories—use discretion for young children and expect some mature themes.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes; the company lists wheelchair-accessible routes and surfaces, but contact the operator in advance to confirm accommodations.
Can I use a tripod or professional camera?
Personal photography is welcome; tripods may be awkward on sidewalks—check with the guide if you plan professional setups.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours may be canceled for severe weather; the cancellation policy allows full refunds for cancellations 24 hours in advance.
Are tours suitable for solo travelers?
Yes—many solo travelers join; tours are group-friendly with opportunities to ask questions and photograph at stops.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
90 minutes
Location
Nashville, Tennessee
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Comfortable walking ability for 90 minutes with short pauses; must be able to stand and navigate curbs.
Ready to Explore Nashville?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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