Nashville anticipates record 17.3M visitors and $11.49B in tourism spending

The Tourism and Convention Commission meeting held on May 15, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee, focused on the anticipated growth in tourism for the upcoming summer season and the Memorial Day weekend. The meeting highlighted several key statistics and projections that indicate a positive trend for Nashville's tourism industry.

The discussion opened with forecasts from AAA, predicting a record-breaking Memorial Day weekend, with approximately 45 million Americans expected to travel at least 50 miles from their homes. This figure surpasses the previous record of 44 million set in February 2005. Contributing to this surge is a slight decrease in gas prices, which is likely to encourage more travelers.

Data presented during the meeting indicated that Nashville is pacing well for major events, including the CMA Fest, which is expected to attract around 90,000 attendees. Projections show a 27% increase in bridal bookings for May 23 and an 11% increase for the CMA Fest on June 6, suggesting a robust summer ahead.

The annual tourism forecast for Davidson County anticipates welcoming 17.3 million visitors, marking a 2.5% increase from the previous year. Of these visitors, approximately 11.5 million are expected to stay overnight, with 35% classified as group or business visitors. The report also noted that 8 million visitors would be staying in hotels, generating an estimated $2 billion in room revenue.

Visitor spending is projected to reach $11.49 billion this year, reflecting a 3% increase year over year. This figure includes spending on hotels, restaurants, and attractions, with an average daily expenditure of $31.5 billion across the city. Despite economic uncertainties, Nashville remains a highly regarded travel destination, with visitors perceiving the city as fun, welcoming, and safe.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to provide further breakdowns of visitor spending categories, including lodging, dining, and transportation, as additional data becomes available later in the year. Overall, the discussions underscored Nashville's resilience and continued appeal as a tourist destination.