Why Nashville’s Murals Are a Must-See
Nashville might be Music City, but it’s also become one of the most photographed cities in the U.S. thanks to its thriving mural scene. Vibrant, larger-than-life artworks cover walls in The Gulch, 12South, East Nashville, and beyond. These murals aren’t just colorful backdrops, they’re expressions of the city’s creative energy, resilience, and culture.
For visitors, especially those coming for a girls’ trip or a Nashville bachelorette weekend, mural-hopping is more than sightseeing. It’s an Instagrammable experience: the chance to laugh with your friends while capturing those unforgettable “we were here” moments.
The only challenge? Nashville’s murals are scattered across neighborhoods, often tucked behind buildings or just far enough apart that walking between them is tough. That’s why the easiest way to see them, without worrying about parking, driving, or missing the hidden gems, is on a guided tour with locals who know exactly where the best Nashville murals are. Below are the best mural experiences Nashville has to offer, each with its own style.
Related: The Ultimate Nashville Girls Trip Guide
Sip, Snap, and Celebrate on the Murals & Mimosas Tour
Best for: Nashville bachelorettes, birthdays, and group celebrations
If you’re here to celebrate, nothing kicks off the day better than murals and mimosas. This 3-hour tour is designed for groups who want that “effortless but unforgettable” start to the day. From the second you hop on the bus, music is playing, the drinks are chilled, and your guide is ready to lead you to 10+ of Nashville’s most iconic murals.
What You’ll See
The “What Lifts You” wings mural in The Gulch (arguably the most famous mural in Nashville).
The “Drippy Lips” and “Looking Pretty, Music City” murals, perfect for playful group shots.
Rotating neighborhood favorites that your guide adds in depending on what’s trending.
Instagram-Worthy Extras
Built-in photo stops with time to pose (no rushing).
Tips from your guide on the best lighting and angles.
A stop for mimosas (or margaritas) plus light bites at a local bar or café.
Why We Love It
This tour is pure celebration. You don’t have to think about logistics, you just get to show up, sip, and slay your selfies. Optional BYOB is allowed on the bus (cans only), and groups often say this becomes the highlight of their trip because it sets the tone for the rest of the weekend.
“Booked for a bachelorette and it was PERFECT. Chill, fun, stylish, and we got a ton of photos for the bride.” - Tiffany B., Google Review
Related: The Ultimate Nashville Bachelorette Guide
Cruise the Streets of Nashville on an E-Bike Mural Tour
Best for: art lovers, photographers, and active travelers
Looking for something more active? The 2-hour mural and street art e-bike tour is one of the best ways to combine sightseeing, storytelling, and exercise. With a smooth electric boost, you’ll cruise through neighborhoods that would otherwise be tough to cover in one outing—riding 7–10 miles while stopping at colorful walls and hidden gems.
What You’ll See
Anthony Billups’ “Music City Murals,” a favorite among locals.
Kelsey Montague’s “What Lifts You” wings (yes, you’ll get that classic shot).
“Resilience & Reverie” and “Tennessee Tough,” two works that celebrate Nashville’s strength and community spirit.
Newer murals tucked into neighborhoods that you’d never find on your own.
Instagram-Worthy Extras
Option to add a Polaroid Package for vintage-style photo souvenirs.
Guides double as photographers, capturing you in front of every mural.
Stops for coffee or snacks at local spots to refresh along the way.
Why We Love It
This tour lets you connect more deeply with Nashville’s art scene. You’re not just snapping photos, you’re hearing the stories behind the artists and the movements that brought this street art to life.
Eat, Stroll, and Pose on the 12th South Mural & Food Tour
Best for: foodies, casual explorers, and first-time Nashville visitors
The 12South neighborhood is one of Nashville’s most photogenic streets. Just a few miles south of downtown, it packs boutiques, bakeries, coffee shops, and murals into a half-mile stretch. The 12th South Mural & Food Tour blends the best of both worlds: foodie indulgence and Instagram opportunities.
What You’ll See & Taste
Iconic murals like “I Believe in Nashville” and the striped wall at Reese Witherspoon’s Draper James.
Five tasting stops that could include Edley’s BBQ, Christie Cookies, Buttermilk Ranch, Five Daughters Bakery, and more.
Local stories about the neighborhood’s growth and creative culture.
Instagram-Worthy Extras
Photo stops built into a relaxed walking pace.
A BYOB-friendly atmosphere if you want to keep the party going.
Hidden murals around the corners that most visitors miss.
Why We Love It
This tour is more relaxed than the others, perfect for groups who want to eat, shop, and snap photos without rushing. It’s also ideal if you’re only in town for a short time and want to combine Nashville flavors with Nashville backdrops.
Related: Girls Trip to Nashville: Weekend Itinerary, Food, Fun & Photo Ops
Strike a Pose on a Mural Photo Walk with Professional Photographer
Best for: Instagram lovers, couples, and anyone who wants flawless photos
Skip the awkward selfies and let a pro capture your Nashville memories. On this 1-hour guided Mural Photo Walk, you’ll explore the colorful 12South neighborhood while a professional photographer snaps your pictures at each stop. No blurry shots, no bad lighting—just polished, edited images you can post right away.
What You’ll See
Iconic murals like “I Believe in Nashville,” “Nashville Looks Good On You,” and “Looking Pretty Music City.”
The boutique-lined streets of 12South, home to shops, coffee stops, and local eateries.
A mix of famous and secret murals that only locals know.
Instagram-Worthy Extras
Receive professionally edited, high-quality digital images (ready for Instagram).
Photographer brings all the equipment—you just bring your outfit and smile.
Learn neighborhood history and music tidbits along the way.
Why We Love It
This tour is pure Instagram gold. Perfect for couples, solo travelers, or groups who want guaranteed amazing photos without juggling tripods or selfie sticks.
Cruise the City on a Murals of Nashville Instagram Golf Cart Tour
Best for: visitors short on time or who want a breezy ride
See more murals in less time on this fun, open-air golf cart tour. With your private guide behind the wheel, you’ll zip through multiple neighborhoods, stopping at Instagrammable walls along the way.
What You’ll See
A curated lineup of Nashville’s best murals across several districts.
Hidden gems off the beaten path, plus popular favorites like The Gulch and downtown murals.
Local sights you’d miss on foot, thanks to the flexibility of the golf cart.
Instagram-Worthy Extras
Private guide ensures you’re not rushed at each mural stop.
Plenty of photo ops without worrying about parking.
Choose a morning, afternoon, or evening departure - perfect for any itinerary.
Why We Love It
This is one of the fastest ways to cover a lot of murals without the stress of navigating. It’s ideal for groups who want variety, but don’t necessarily need a long, structured tour.
DIY Options: Build Your Own Mural Crawl
Want to explore at your own pace? You can create a DIY mural crawl:
The Gulch: Start with the “What Lifts You” wings and explore the trendy shops and restaurants around it.
12South: Walk the half-mile strip for “I Believe in Nashville” and boutique shopping.
East Nashville: Hunt down eclectic murals and stop in at local record stores or breweries.
Downtown: Stroll between attractions like the Ryman Auditorium and Broadway while spotting murals along side streets.
Pro tip: Go early in the morning for the best lighting and fewest crowds. If you’re serious about getting those Instagram-worthy shots without waiting in line, weekday mornings are your sweet spot.
FAQ: Nashville Murals
What’s the most Instagrammable mural in Nashville?
The “What Lifts You” wings mural in The Gulch. It’s the one you’ve seen on Instagram a thousand times, and yes, It’s worth the photo.
Where is the “I Believe in Nashville” mural?
There are 3 versions of this famous mural around town. You’ll find it In 12South, near Draper James, at Marathon Village near Nelson’s Greenbriar Distillery, and in East Nashville on the side wall of The Basement East. It’s another iconic stop and a must for first-timers.
How long does it take to see Nashville’s murals?
A DIY mural crawl might take half a day if you’re driving, parking, and searching. Guided tours streamline it into 2 to 3 hours.
Are mural tours good for Nashville bachelorette parties?
Absolutely. The Murals & Mimosas tour in particular was designed with bachelorettes in mind.
What should I bring on a Nashville mural tour?
Your phone or camera, comfy shoes, a valid ID if you’re drinking, and maybe a fun outfit for those group shots.
Wrap-Up
Nashville’s mural scene is colorful, creative, and made for Instagram. But more than that, it’s a celebration of the city itself, from its resilience to its playful personality. Whether you want to sip champagne on a party bus, pedal your way through street art, strike a pose with a pro photographer, or cruise by golf cart, there’s a mural tour to fit your trip.
Don’t spend your precious vacation hours driving in circles trying to find murals, book one of these tours and let locals handle the details while you focus on the fun (and the photos).