Food & Mural Tour in 12South Nashville

Discover Nashville’s 12South Neighborhood with a Food & Mural Tour

If you’re looking to experience Nashville beyond the music and into its neighborhoods’ heart and soul, the Food & Mural Tour in 12South offers a well-rounded taste of local culture. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, detailed accounts and reviews paint a picture of an engaging, flavorful, and visually stunning walk through one of Nashville’s most colorful districts.

What makes this experience attractive? First, you get to enjoy five thoughtfully curated tastings, blending Southern comfort with international flair—perfect for food lovers craving authentic bites. Second, the Instagram-worthy murals and charming boutiques give the neighborhood a vibrant artistic vibe that’s hard to beat. Third, the tour’s local guides, ranging from food writers to hospitality pros, share stories that deepen your understanding of Nashville’s evolving scene.

However, a notable point to consider is that the tour does not accommodate vegans or strict vegetarians—something to keep in mind if dietary restrictions are a priority. Also, since the experience is capped at 12 guests, it maintains an intimate feel, but booking in advance is recommended to secure a spot.

This food and mural exploration suits travelers who want more than just music and nightlife—those eager to discover Nashville’s neighborhoods, enjoy delicious bites, and snap memorable photos. It’s a great choice for first-time visitors, curious locals, or anyone who loves combining culinary adventure with visual art.

Good To Know

• Authentic Local Cuisine: Enjoy a variety of large, flavorful tastings that often serve as a full meal.
• Picturesque Murals & Neighborhood Charm: Capture images of Nashville’s iconic street art and boutique storefronts.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides are passionate about Nashville’s food scene and eager to share stories behind the murals and eateries.
• Value for Money: For $145, you get five tastings, a guided experience, and insider tips—offering a good balance of value and experience.
• Limited Group Size: Max 12 travelers ensures a personalized, engaging atmosphere.
• Accessibility & Practicalities: Close to public transportation, service animals allowed, and dietary needs are respected with prior notice.

The Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Point & First Impressions

The tour kicks off at the 12 South Farmers Market, a lively spot that sets the tone for local flavor and community spirit. Meeting here allows you to get a feel for the neighborhood’s vibe—casual, artsy, and full of character. Based on reviews, guides like “a team of passionate foodies” lead the way, making the experience both educational and fun.

The First Stop – Exploring 12South

As you stroll through 12South, the guides spotlight local favorites—restaurants and shops run by Nashvillians who are invested in their community. You’ll be encouraged to look for the neighborhood’s famous murals, which have earned the area a reputation as an Instagram hotspot. Some murals feature Reese Witherspoon’s boutique, while others celebrate country music legend Holly Williams, adding a touch of celebrity charm.

Food Stops & Tastings

The tour includes 4 savory and 1 dessert tasting—all fairly substantial, often enough to replace an entire meal if you eat light beforehand. The foods highlight Nashville’s evolving culinary scene, blending Southern staples like fried chicken or barbecue with international influences. Previous reviews praise the deliciousness of the tapas-style portions and mention that the tastings “are large enough to generally replace a meal,” making the experience value-packed.

The Murals & Photo Opportunities

One of the standout aspects is the chance to capture the neighborhood’s colorful murals. Our sources mention “Instagram moments” with murals that make you want to snap pictures at every turn. These murals aren’t just backdrops—they tell stories about Nashville’s culture, music, and local personalities. Guides often share intriguing stories behind these artworks, adding depth to your visual experience.

Hidden Gems & Local Stories

Guides are described as “dedicated to showcasing the city’s culinary scene”, and they often reveal hidden gems—small shops, secret alleyways, or upcoming eateries that might not be on typical tourist maps. These insights can enhance your appreciation for Nashville’s local flavor and help you plan future visits.

End of the Tour & Practical Details

The final stop is within walking distance of the starting point, on 12th Avenue South, wrapping up around Beechwood Avenue. This proximity makes it easy to continue exploring or head to nearby eateries and shops. The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including ample tasting time and photo opportunities.

The Value of the Experience

Price & What’s Included

At $145 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience: five tastings, a professional guide, all taxes and fees, and gratuities for restaurant staff. It’s a good deal considering you’re sampling enough food to replace a meal, plus gaining insider knowledge and visual delights.

What’s Not Included & Tips

Guests should note that alcoholic beverages are not included but can be purchased separately. Gratuities for the guide are optional, but appreciated if you enjoy the experience. Travelers are encouraged to have a light breakfast and plan for a smaller dinner afterward, given the satisfying nature of the tastings.

Accessibility & Special Requirements

The tour is friendly to service animals and near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers. The owner takes food allergies seriously, so be sure to specify any allergies when booking. Unfortunately, the tour does not accommodate vegans or strict vegetarians—something to consider if your diet is restrictive.

Group Size & Atmosphere

With a cap of 12 people, expect a personalized experience where guides can tailor stories and engage directly. This small size fosters interaction, making it perfect for those who want to ask questions and connect with others.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for foodies eager to explore Nashville’s culinary landscape beyond the usual. If you enjoy art, vibrant murals, and want a visual and flavor-filled experience, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially well-suited for those new to Nashville or visitors who want a relaxed, engaging way to see the neighborhood.

Travelers seeking a light, fun, and informative outing—without the crowds or overwhelming schedules—will find this experience both enjoyable and worthwhile. It’s a perfect blend of local tastes, artistic scenery, and engaging stories, making it a memorable part of any Nashville visit.

The Sum Up

The Food & Mural Tour in 12South Nashville offers a well-rounded taste of one of Nashville’s most beloved neighborhoods. With large, delicious tastings, colorful murals, and stories from passionate guides, it provides great value and authentic local flavor.

It’s especially valuable for those who want to combine culinary delights with cultural insights and eye-catching street art. The intimate size and personalized approach make for an engaging experience that’s suitable for most travelers, particularly those with an appetite for discovery.

While it doesn’t cater to vegans or vegetarians, the tour’s focus on Southern comfort food with international twists keeps it appealing for a broad audience. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy Nashville’s vibrant community, taste local favorites, and snap photos of some of the city’s most iconic murals—all in just three hours.

For anyone eager to see Nashville from a different angle—one filled with delicious bites, vibrant art, and local stories—this tour proves to be both enjoyable and worthwhile.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s designed for a broad audience. With a small group size and manageable pace, it’s family-friendly, as long as children are comfortable walking and eating.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, offering enough time for tastings, photos, and stories without feeling rushed.

Are the food portions enough to serve as a full meal?
Yes, the five tastings are quite generous and typically enough to replace a meal if you eat light beforehand.

Can I customize the tour if I have dietary restrictions?
The owner takes allergies seriously and encourages you to mention any allergies at booking. However, the tour does not currently accommodate vegans or vegetarians.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the 12 South Farmers Market and ends within walking distance near 12th Avenue South and Beechwood Avenue.

Is alcoholic beverage service included?
No, alcohol is not included but can be ordered and paid for separately at the stops.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 12 travelers, maintaining an intimate and interactive atmosphere.

How do I book the tour?
Booking can be done through Viator or directly through Walk Eat Nashville, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the start.

Is transportation involved during the tour?
The experience is walking-based, exploring the neighborhood on foot, making it easy to enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes up close.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a camera for murals, and an appetite for Nashville’s local flavors.

To sum it up, this tour is a fantastic way to experience Nashville’s 12South neighborhood authentically—combining great food, striking street art, and engaging stories. It’s perfect for those curious about local culture, food lovers eager for hearty bites, and travelers who enjoy a small-group, personal experience. Whether you’re new to Nashville or a local wanting to rediscover your city, this food and mural tour offers a memorable, flavorful slice of Music City.