Overnight parking in Nashville is hard to come by. Confusing regulations and rising prices make it even trickier.
So where can you safely and legally park in the city?
Whether you’re getting some rest or hitting some of Nashville’s famous nightlife, we’re exploring five of the best places to park overnight in the Music City.
Let’s explore!
Free Overnight Parking Comes to an End in Downtown Nashville
Nashville locals have always enjoyed free parking on Sundays and overnight. But new rules are changing where locals and tourists can leave their cars.
The city announced they’ll begin charging for parking in the core downtown area. Smart meters will soon replace the old coin-operated machines. Drivers can pay using their phones, but that’s where the convenience ends.
Locals who work and attend school in the area are concerned about the hit to their pocketbooks. Some are considering taking a rideshare instead of their own vehicles.
How Much is Parking in Nashville?
Parking throughout most of Nashville will run you $1.25 an hour. In the central business district, where overnight fees will be enforced, the rate is $2.25. City officials claim these prices aren’t changing.
And the city isn’t offering any discounts for off-hours either. So parking your car in downtown Nashville overnight will cost about $20.
However, some people can catch a break from these fees. For example, cars with handicapped stickers can park at no charge, and parking is free for everyone on holidays.
Why is Nashville Ending Free Overnight Parking?
The city hopes 24-hour parking fees will increase business turnover in the district. But the real boom comes from the additional cash they’ll rake in. This change could bring in an extra $250,000 annually for infrastructure improvements.
Officials also said they hope the change will encourage more people to use public transportation. They claim free parking is one cause of traffic congestion and that fewer cars on the road is the only solution.
Pro Tip: Grab a bite at these Best BBQ Spots in Nashville for Your Next RV Road Trip.
Can You Legally Sleep in Your Car In Tennessee?
Tennessee has some of the stiffest parking regulations in the country. Drivers can only park at public rest areas for three hours. Not very restful, huh? And some cities even prohibit car camping on both public and private land.
The laws surrounding this topic are a little fuzzy. Local ordinances vary, and in most places, cops will simply ask you to move if you’re caught snoozing in your car. But you might be fined or even arrested if you’re busted multiple times.
Where Can I Park Overnight in Nashville?
While Tennessee has no laws banning car camping outright, most places in Nashville won’t let you catch some shut-eye in your parked vehicle overnight. Fortunately, there are several spots where you can post up for the night. Admittedly, they’re pricier than metered parking, but you won’t risk a fine. More importantly, you won’t be disturbed from your slumber.
#1 Union Street Parking Garage
The Union Street Parking Garage is in the central business district. The Ryman Auditorium, Tennessee Performing Arts Center, and Bridgestone Arena are all nearby.
Customers have access to a private bathroom during the day. The garage is ADA-compliant and features plenty of handicapped spots. And there’s contactless access, so you don’t even have to speak to another person.
Address: 623 Union Street, Nashville, TN 37219.
#2 Library Parking Garage
This Nashville Public Library location offers one of the best parking garages in the central business district for staying overnight. In addition to the regular parking spots, this facility offers four charging stations for electric cars and 22 accessible parking spaces.
Numerous excellent dining options are nearby. You’ll also find great nightlife and plenty of shopping opportunities in close proximity.
Even better, the prices are perfect for students using the library for all-night cram sessions. In addition to hourly and daily fees, they offer 30-minute rates for running quick errands.
Address: 140 6th Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37219.
#3 Metropolis Parking Public Square Garage
This Deaderick Street parking garage is across from City Hall and Public Square Park. You can grab some grub just a few hundred feet away at restaurants like Luna Llena Taqueria and Patio 315.
This garage has plenty of accessible parking spaces and payment schemes, so you never need to pay for time you won’t use.
Address: 350 Deaderick Street, Nashville, TN 37201.
#4 Music City Center Parking Garage
Music City Center is the largest covered parking garage in town, with almost 2,000 spaces available, including nine charging stations. Plus, there’s 24-hour security roaming the lot to help you rest easy.
Of course, the most apparent nearby attraction is Music City Center. Even if you aren’t attending an event, you can stop in for a sandwich at Fresh Pick or a pizza at Al Taglio.
This garage offers plenty of payment options. And if you’re a local, you can apply for monthly parking.
Address: 701 Demonbreun Street, Nashville, TN 37203.
#5 Nashville Airport
The Nashville Airport is awesome for overnight parking if you want to avoid downtown. Five different parking options are available.
Plenty of short-term and long-term payment schemes cater to all drivers. Whether you need a cat nap or a full eight hours, you’ll get a good deal.
Plus, you’ll find a few unexpected amenities. You can get your car detailed inside and out, reserve a spot online, and grab a complimentary bottle of water before you get back on the road.
Address: 560 Donelson Pike, Nashville, TN 37214.
Pro Tip: Can’t find overnight parking in Nashville? Spend the night at one of these 7 Best RV Parks in Nashville, Tennessee instead.
Unusual, But Legal, Overnight Parking Options in Nashville
Even though overnight parking in Nashville is limited, the existing options have some pretty great perks. Local live music, great food, and a thriving arts scene are found everywhere throughout the city.
Don’t get busted by the cops as you’re trying to catch some shut-eye in metered parking spots. Instead, cruise into one of the city’s parking garages. You’ll feel safer and might even get your eight hours.
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