Looking for the top places to run, local running stores, group runs, and more? Here’s your guide to running in Nashville.

(Feature photo by iStock.com/f11photo)

The Nashville City Guide is curated in collaboration with The Exchange Running Collective — an East Nashville local running store and community hub.

While Nashville is known as the home of country music, local runners will tell you that the city is also home to a thriving running scene. There are multiple group runs just about any day of the week and plenty of miles on greenways and trails to explore.

Whether you find yourself in town for a bachelorette party, concert, or business conference, it’s easy to get in your run and swing by a local cafe for a coffee and a breakfast sandwich before your day begins. If you have some spare time, be sure to stop by the local running stores. In fact, you can visit both The Exchange Running Collective and Nashville Running Company in the same outing. Both are located on Woodland Street in East Nashville and are uniquely different from each other, including the brands they carry.

Bookmark this guide for your next trip to the Nashville area. Rather than researching where to go, you can spend more time on the trails and sipping on a post-run beer at a local brewery.

• When Is the Best Time to Visit Nashville?
• Running in Nashville
• Where to Run in Nashville
• Running Stores in Nashville
• Running Clubs in Nashville
• Destination Races in Nashville
• 7 Spots for a Post-Run Sip or Bite in Nashville

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When Is the Best Time to Visit Nashville?

While summer tends to be peak season for tourists, the spring and fall months offer the best temperatures for running. These months are also when most destination races occur. April, for instance, averages 61 degrees with an average low of 49 and an average high of 73. October sees the least precipitation and has similar temps — a 62-degree average, with an average low of 50 and an average high of 74, according to the National Weather Service.

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Running in Nashville

There’s no shortage of running opportunities in Nashville. If you’re looking to run with a group, check out the listings below. There’s at least one group run scheduled each day of the week, typically meeting at a craft brewery, local running store, or coffee shop.

Whether you prefer paved paths or dirt trails, there are route options for both across the city. The greenway network is growing and offers long and scenic paths. Shelby Park and Percy Warner Park are among fan favorites.

If you’re looking for a destination race in Nashville, the St. Jude Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon and Half Marathon weekend draws a large crowd to the downtown area, and two half marathons around St. Patrick’s Day take runners along the city’s greenways.

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Where to Run in Nashville

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park and Downtown Greenways
The Nashville Farmers’ Market (900 Rosa L Parks Boulevard) is a great place to park and start your run for a tour of the city. Run along the sidewalks of the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, right across the street from the Nashville Farmers’ Market parking lot. If you’re feeling ambitious, head to the south side of the park to Victory Park and run up the Tennessee Capitol steps for an extra workout.

At the north end of the park is Jefferson Street. Crossing it will take you into Germantown where you can run along quaint neighborhood streets, many sprinkled with storefronts and cafes (including Red Bicycle Coffee and Crepes and Bearded Iris Brewing).

You can also access multiple greenways located close to where you parked. Jump on the Cumberland River Greenway from the east side of the amphitheater in Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. This path will take you behind the baseball stadium for the Nashville Sounds. At the river, you can go right or left; going left will eventually connect you to the MetroCenter Levee Greenway. (Check out this map of Nashville’s greenways in advance.)

Note: The Cumberland River Greenway is an urban trail that passes industrial areas and encampments — running with a buddy is recommended.

Percy Warner Park
At Percy Warner Park, you can hit the trails or a hard run on the road inside the park. There’s an interior 5.8-mile road loop and an exterior 11.2-mile road loop that are both closed to vehicle traffic. (It can be easy to get lost, so pull up your Strava!). There are also multiple trail loops to choose from. Parking at Deep Well Trailhead provides easy access to the 2.5-mile Warner Woods (white loop) and 5-mile Mossy Ridge (red loop), in addition to the road loops.

Looking for more trail options? Check out adjoining Edwin Warner Park. These two parks are referred to as the Warner Parks, and you can find park maps here.

Richland Creek Greenway
Easily accessible if you’re staying on the west or southwest side of downtown, Richland Creek Greenway is a loop just shy of 4 miles and runs adjacent to McCabe Park and Golf Course. Consider starting from the trailhead parking lot behind the Publix Super Market at 22 White Bridge Road. (Refer to the Richland Creek Greenway map here.) After your run, stop by the Sylvan locations of M.L.Rose Craft Beer & Burgers or Bearded Iris Brewing, or grab a coffee from Frothy Monkey’s 51st Avenue North location.

Shelby Bottoms Greenway
Park at Shelby Park (Shelby Avenue and South 20th Street) to hop on Shelby Bottoms Greenway for an out-and-back run and a distance of your choice. You can easily get 8 miles here, with more if you tack on some of the unpaved trails and connecting greenways. Starting from Shelby Park, you’ll pass a dog park, a small lake, and several parks with sports fields. The greenway eventually meets the river and runs adjacent to it. When you reach the Cumberland River Pedestrian Bridge, continue under it to stay on Shelby Bottoms Greenway or cross it to connect with Stones River Greenway. It does get more hilly on the other side of the river!

There are more Nashville-area greenways to explore, including Stones River and Peeler Park. Check out the Greenways for Nashville website for more information and maps.

As with any running route, take the necessary precautions for a safe run. Whenever possible, run with a buddy. Tell someone you know well where you’re going and when you expect to return, bring your cell phone and an ID, and remain aware of your surroundings.

Read more in 11 Running Safety Tips Every Runner Should Follow.

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Running Stores in Nashville

The Exchange Running Collective
Newer to the Nashville running scene, The Exchange opened in 2022 to serve the East Nashville running community. Built on a mission to create meaningful change in the community, it’s a welcoming spot for runners to find new running gear and meet for events and group runs. Running shoe brands include Adidas, Asics, Brooks, Hoka, On, and Nike. Here you’ll also find high-quality but lesser-known apparel brands such as Bandit, Tracksmith, PYNRS, and Roark. And for nutrition, Bare Performance Nutrition, Maurten, and more.
966 Woodland Street, Nashville; 615-232-4941

Learn more about the mission at The Exchange Running Collective and get to know co-founder Lauren Osborne in this Local Insights Q&A.

Fleet Feet Nashville
Stop by one of six Fleet Feet locations in and around Nashville for your last-minute running needs, or schedule a time to meet with a fit specialist to find your next pair of running shoes. If you’re seeking a Nashville shirt or sweatshirt to remember your travels, check out the Community Collection; proceeds benefit local community initiatives.
3900 Hillsboro Pike, Nashville; 615-988-2196
330 Franklin Road, Brentwood; 615-373-1123
545 Cool Springs Boulevard, Franklin; 615-996-2070
300 Indian Lake Boulevard, Hendersonville; 615-991-3191
630 South Mt. Juliet Road, Mt. Juliet; 615-553-4089
544 North Thompson Lane, Murfreesboro; 615-494-3141

Nashville Running Company
The quaint two-story running shop opened in 2011 and carries a wide selection of road and trail shoes, running gear, and apparel. Running shoe brands include Hoka, Altra, INOV8, Salomon, Brooks, On, Saucony, Mizuno, and more. If you’re looking for a Nashville Running Company shirt to remember your Nashville travels, you’ll find it here.
820 Woodland Street, Nashville; 615-228-9191

Team Nashville
A mainstay in the Nashville area, Team Nashville has been in operation for several decades. In addition to running, triathletes will find swimming and cycling gear. Brands include Asics, Saucony, New Balance, Mizuno, TYR, Hammer, and more.
3205 West End Avenue, Nashville; 615-383-0098

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Running Clubs in Nashville

We aim to keep this guide updated regularly, but things can change quickly! Before attending a group run on this list, call the associated store or check the group’s social media to confirm the date, time, and location.

Frontrunners Nashville
When: Mondays at 6 p.m.
Distance: Varies
Starting Point: Bearded Iris Brewing at 101 Van Buren Street, Nashville

The Nations Run Club
When: Mondays at 6:30 p.m.
Distance: Varies 2-4 miles
Starting Point: Southern Grist Brewing Company in The Nations at 5012 Centennial Boulevard, Nashville

6RUN5 Nashville Running Club
When: Tuesdays at 6 p.m.
Distance: 2- and 4-mile routes
Starting Point: The Exchange Running Collective at 966 Woodland Street, Nashville

East Nasty Running Club
When: Wednesdays at 6 p.m.
Distance: Rotating routes of 3-6 miles
Starting Point: At the corner of South 12th Street and Holly Street, Nashville

Jogalope Running
When: Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m.
Distance: Varies
Starting Point: Location varies weekly; check social media

Frontrunners Nashville
When: Thursdays at 6 p.m.
Distance: Varies
Starting Point: The Lipstick Lounge at 1400 Woodland Street, Nashville

Nash Run Club with Cooldown
When: Thursdays 6:30 p.m.
Distance: Options for 1-4 miles
Starting Point: Location varies; check the Cooldown’s Instagram

Freaks Run Out At Night
When: Thursdays at 7 p.m.
Distance: 2-3 miles
Starting Point: The Exchange Running Collective at 966 Woodland Street, Nashville

Brew Crew
When: Fridays at 6 a.m.
Distance: 3-5 miles
Starting Point: Nashville Running Company at 820 Woodland Street, Nashville (meet behind the store)

The WKND WRMP
When: Fridays at 6:30 a.m.
Distance: 2-mile, 3-mile, and 5-mile options
Starting Point: The Exchange Running Collective at 966 Woodland Street, Nashville

Jogalope Running’s Frothy Friday
When: Fridays at 6:30 a.m.
Distance: Varies
Starting Point: Frothy Monkey at 2509 12th Street South, Nashville

Sasquatchalope Weekly Trail Run
When: Saturdays at 9 a.m.
Distance: Varies
Starting Point: Warner Park Nature Center in Nashville; check Instagram for details

Sundays at Seven | The Exchange Trail Meetup
When: Sundays 7 a.m.
Distance: 2- and 5-mile routes
Starting Point: Deep Well Trailhead in Warner Park, Nashville

Frosty Joggers
When: Sundays at 6 p.m.
Distance: 2-5 miles
Starting Point: Lakeside Lounge at 921 Woodland Street, Nashville

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Destination Races in Nashville

• Hot Chocolate Run | February | Nashville | 15K, 10K, 5K
• Nashville St. Paddy’s 5K & Half Marathon | March | Nashville | Half Marathon, 5K
• Publix St. Patrick’s Music City Half Marathon | March | Nashville | Half Marathon, 10K, 5K
• St. Jude Rock ‘n’ Roll Nashville | April | Nashville | Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K
• Run Nash Nashville 1/2 Marathon, Marathon & 5K | October | Nashville | Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K
• The Harpeth Hills Flying Monkey Marathons | November | Nashville | Marathon, Half Marathon

Check out the Nashville Race Guide for more information on these annual destination races in Nashville.

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7 Spots for a Post-Run Sip or Bite in Nashville

Bearded Iris Brewing — Bearded Iris has a Germantown location near the downtown farmers market and greenway, perfect for a post-run beer. Enjoy a locally brewed IPA, double IPA, or a fruit sour out on the patio. The Sylvan location is a more intimate taproom with ramen available from Black Dynasty Secret Ramen House. Note: Both taproom locations are cashless.
Germantown: 101 Van Buren Street, Nashville; 615-928-7988
Sylvan: 4101 Charlotte Avenue, Nashville; 615-681-5598

E+ROSE Wellness Cafe — Find plenty of plant-based, all-natural options packed with superfoods, from fresh-pressed juices and smoothie bowls to wraps and grain bowls. The downtown location at 501 Church Street is a great place to load up on nutritious calories after a downtown greenway run.
Downtown: 501 Church Street, Nashville; 615-942-6521
The Gulch: 1201 Demonbreun Street, Nashville; 615-200-7684
610 Merritt Avenue, Nashville; 615-830-2333
10 Lea Avenue, Nashville; 615-873-4550
4 City Boulevard, Nashville; 615-862-0445
700 Old Hickory Boulevard, Brentwood; 615-678-8364

Frothy Monkey — Frothy Monkey’s East Nashville location near Shelby Park is an ideal stop for breakfast and a cold brew coffee after a run. In addition to breakfast sandwiches and omelettes is a vegan breakfast bowl, vanilla-cinnamon French toast, and homemade pastries (including gluten-free options while they last). Lunch and dinner are also served.
East Nashville: 1701 Fatherland Street, Nashville; 615-600-4756 x5
Downtown: 235 Rep John Lewis Way N, Nashville; 615-600-4756 x2
2509 12th Ave S, Nashville; 615-600-4756, x1
1400 51st Ave N., Nashville; 615-600-4756, x4
125 5th Ave South, Franklin; 615-600-4756, x3

M.L.Rose Craft Beer & Burgers — Hearty burgers and a wide selection of craft beers (including several gluten-free options plus gluten-free burger buns!) make this a great spot for a post-race meal. Other dishes include Buffalo chicken cheese fries, Nashville hot cheese curds, wings with five sauce options, wraps, and salads. The patio is dog-friendly.
Downtown: 431 11th Avenue, Nashville; 615-729-4445
Sylvan/West Nashville: 4408 Charlotte Avenue, Nashville; 615-750-2920
Melrose: 2535 8th Avenue, Nashville; 615-712-8160
Mt. Juliet: 401 South Mt. Juliet Road, Mt. Juliet; 615-288-8269

Red Bicycle Coffee and Crepes — Choose from sweet and savory crepes (gluten-free available!) with a variety of fillings, such as Nutella and bananas; scrambled eggs, mozzarella, mushroom, and spinach; and balsamic chicken. Sandwiches, tacos, and burritos are also available. Whether you’re stopping by after your morning or afternoon run, consider pairing your meal with a latte or loose-leaf tea. Note: Menu options may vary based on location.
Germantown: 1200 5th Avenue N, Nashville; 615-516-1986
Woodbine/South Nashville: 2190 Nolensville Pike, Nashville; 615-649-8996
(Additional locations in Mt. Juliet, Franklin, Smyrna, and Murfreesboro)

TailGate Brewery — A top brewery to visit while in Nashville, swing by TailGate Brewery for a post-run pint on the patio. Both the headquarters and the Music Row locations house an on-site brewing facility with craft pizzas and dog-friendly patios. The East Nashville taproom is known for its barrel-aging and small-batch experimentation. And in addition to craft beer is a craft seltzery at the Germantown location.
Headquarters: 7300 Charlotte Pike, Nashville; 615-457-1424
Music Row: 1538 Demonbreun Street, Nashville; 629-702-5914
East Nashville: 811 Gallatin Avenue, Nashville; 629-203-7152
Germantown: 915 3rd Ave North, Nashville; 615-953-7089
(Additional locations in Antioch and Hendersonville)

The Well Coffeehouse — The Well’s drink menu has a selection of pour-overs and teas in addition to your standard latte, drip, and cold brew. For post-run breakfast, choose from avocado toast, a brunch bowl, or a breakfast sandwich (try the Honey Bee on a gluten-free sweet potato biscuit!). If your run takes you later into the day, grab a chipotle chicken sandwich or a quinoa, black bean, and sweet potato Botanic Bowl for lunch. The Well Coffeehouse is a nonprofit organization that supports clean water initiatives.
1000 16th Avenue South, Nashville; 615-253-3478
4002 Granny White Pike, Nashville; 615-988-2387
5000 Linbar Drive, Nashville; 615-915-4039
690 Old Hickory Boulevard, Brentwood; 615-457-2684
7618 Hwy 70 S, Nashville; 615-678-8150

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Looking for more running destinations? Check out our other City Guides!

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PLAN YOUR TRIP TO NASHVILLE

Destination Races in Nashville, Tennessee

The Exchange Running Collective Co-founder’s Tips on Running in Nashville

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