Nashville VIP Style Private Tour with Local Singer-Songwriter

If you’re planning a trip to Nashville, chances are you want more than just a standard city tour. You want an experience that feels personal, informative, and a little musical. This Nashville VIP Style Private Tour with local singer-songwriter Steven Whitson promises just that. With a friendly, down-to-earth vibe, it offers a 2-hour journey through the city’s most iconic landmarks, all in a private vehicle with personalized touches.

What really caught our eye about this tour are two things: first, the chance to explore Nashville with a local musician who knows the city inside out and can share stories and tunes from his own experience. Second, the personalized nature—it’s designed for small groups, making it more intimate than the usual bus tours. That said, one thing to keep in mind is the price point, which is around $454 for up to six people. While that covers a lot of ground and includes some unique extras, it might feel steep if you’re traveling solo or in a small family.

This tour is perfect for music lovers, curious travelers wanting a snapshot of Nashville’s highlights, or anyone who appreciates a guide who’s also a talented musician. It’s not necessarily geared toward families with very young kids, but anyone who enjoys music, history, and a friendly, relaxed vibe will probably find this a worthwhile addition to their Nashville itinerary.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour with a local singer-songwriter, not a big bus crowd.
• Music & Stories: Get stories behind the sights plus live performances from your guide.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits include Nashville landmarks like Music Row, the Parthenon, Bluebird Cafe, and more.
• Flexible Timing: You can choose a start time that fits your schedule.
• Includes Transportation & Snacks: Private vehicle, bottled water, and local snacks are on the house.
• Great Value for Music Fans: The personal touch and insider insights make it stand out.

Exploring the Itinerary: What’s Included and What to Expect

Downtown Nashville & Broadway

Your adventure kicks off in the heart of the city, cruising along the Riverfront and Broadway, where the lively sounds of honky tonks and neon signs are front and center. Steven Whitson, your guide and a talented musician, gives you a quick overview of the city’s vibe. He’ll point out landmarks and share stories that set the scene for your Nashville experience. And if you’re lucky, he might even serenade you with a song or two right outside some of the famous venues.

Reviews highlight how much people appreciated having Steven’s knowledge and personality to guide them. Suzanne from her review said, “Steven was an amazing tour guide. So much knowledge was shared with us.” It’s clear that his enthusiasm and storytelling make this part engaging rather than just a drive-by.

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

Next, you’ll see the impressive Capitol Mall, where a 200-foot map of Tennessee and the WWII Memorial stand out. Steven provides a mini history lesson, giving you context about the state’s history and significance. The optional bell-ringing photo op is a fun touch, and it’s a good bathroom break spot. This stop isn’t long, but it’s a meaningful way to get a sense of Nashville’s civic pride and history.

Antique Archaeology & Marathon Motor Works

The tour offers an optional quick visit to Antique Archaeology, the shop famous from “American Pickers.” If you’re into vintage finds or just want a quick browse, it’s a charming spot. Also, the nearby Marathon Motor Works adds a bit of local industrial history and photo opportunities. Reviewers like Maureen loved seeing the shop, calling it “on the History Channel fame,” which is a nice tie-in for fans of the show.

Music Row & Celebrity Sightings

Music Row is the heartbeat of Nashville’s songwriting and recording scene. Steven drives you past the legendary studios where hit songs are made, with quick stops for photos and a chance to soak in the atmosphere. Keep your eyes peeled — sometimes you might spot a celebrity or two. This area is a favorite among guests who love the music industry lore, with several reviewers mentioning how interesting and lively this part felt.

Vanderbilt University & The Parthenon

Driving by Vanderbilt, Steven shares quick anecdotes about the university’s founder. Then, you’ll visit the Parthenon—an exact replica of the Athens monument. Though the inside museum costs extra, the outside makes a great photo-op and offers some history. Visitors like Paul mentioned how they enjoyed the short history lesson, and others appreciated the chance to snap some pics of the iconic structure.

Bluebird Cafe & 12th Avenue South

The Bluebird Cafe, famed for singer-songwriter showcases, is a highlight. Steven even performs an original song just outside the venue, making it a memorable moment. It’s a brief stop, but one that resonates deeply with music fans. The nearby 12th Avenue South is a trendy strip with Reese Witherspoon’s Draper James shop and Dolly Parton’s office, perfect for a quick drive-by and some casual sightseeing. Many guests, like Melissa, say this part is a perfect mix of local charm and famous spots.

Photo Ops and Personal Touches

Steven emphasizes personal interactions—many guests rave about his singing, storytelling, and the way he customizes the experience. For example, he offers to perform original songs on the spot or give recommendations for where to eat and explore afterward. The optional photo by the Angel mural is an Instagram-worthy moment, depending on timing and line length.

Value and Overall Experience

For around $454, this tour delivers a lot of value, especially considering the personalized attention and the inclusion of private transportation, snacks, and a CD of Steven’s music. The reviews consistently praise Steven’s knowledge and friendliness, with many calling it the best tour they’ve experienced in Nashville. Suzanne summed it up well: “Steven was an amazing tour guide. So much knowledge was shared with us.” The fact that he’s also a talented musician, serenading guests and sharing original songs, adds a layer of authenticity and entertainment that sets this apart from more generic city tours.

However, the price may be a consideration for budget travelers or those on a tight schedule. It’s a private experience, so it’s more expensive than group tours, but many feel the personalized stories, music, and flexibility make it worth the splurge.

The tour is also highly rated, with a perfect 5-star score from 484 reviews. Many guests mention feeling like they made a new friend, not just took a tour. Steven’s ability to blend history, local insights, and music creates a well-rounded, memorable experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal if you’re a music enthusiast, a first-time visitor wanting a quick yet meaningful overview, or someone who appreciates stories behind the landmarks. It’s especially suited for small groups seeking a more intimate outing, and those who enjoy live music or are curious about Nashville’s songwriting scene. If you prefer a more structured, less personalized experience, this might not be the best fit. But if you want a relaxed, customized journey with a talented guide and musician, this is a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour private? Yes, this is a private experience, so only your group will participate, making it more personal and flexible.

What’s included in the price? The tour includes private transportation, bottled water (Fiji brand), and snacks like Nashville GooGoo Clusters and Moon Pies. You also get a CD of Steven’s music.

Can I choose my start time? Yes, you can select a flexible start time to fit your schedule.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 2 hours, but this can vary slightly depending on stops and traffic.

Are there any additional costs? Entrance fees to some sites, like the inside of the Parthenon or Bluebird Cafe, are not included. Tips for the guide are also not included.

Is there a dress code or specific attire? Casual, comfortable clothing works best since you’ll be riding around and stopping for photos.

What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather. In case of rain or poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for children? The tour is generally adult-oriented, especially given the musical and historical content, but it can be enjoyed by older kids who appreciate music and sightseeing.

Can I get a stop to take photos? Yes, there are several optional photo stops, including the Parthenon, murals, and landmarks along the route.

What is the cancellation policy? You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, and full refunds are available if canceled within that window.

To sum it up, the Nashville VIP Style Private Tour with a local singer-songwriter offers a personalized, music-infused way to see the city. It’s especially suited for those wanting an authentic, intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide who’s also a talented musician. While the price might seem high at first glance, many guests feel the stories, music, and flexibility more than justify the cost. If you love Nashville’s musical roots, enjoy engaging guides, and prefer a tour tailored to your interests, this experience is likely to be a highlight of your trip.