Dive into Nashville’s shadowy past with Nashville Experience Tours’ Dark Side Tour. Uncover stories of scandal, crime, and rogue characters that bring a new perspective to the city’s lively reputation. Perfect for curious adults seeking an intriguing, fun history walk.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; comfortable walking required
Wildlife
History
Nashville’s reputation for crime and scandal grew in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with infamous figures often crossing paths with the city’s development.
Conservation
Nashville emphasizes urban sustainability, maintaining historic districts while promoting respectful tourism and local preservation efforts.
Nashville Experience Tours
Dive into Nashville’s shadowy past with Nashville Experience Tours’ Dark Side Tour. Uncover stories of scandal, crime, and rogue characters that bring a new perspective to the city’s lively reputation. Perfect for curious adults seeking an intriguing, fun history walk.
Nashville Experience Tours is a guided-tour operator based in Nashville, Tennessee, offering a range of walking, private, and van experiences that highlight the city’s history and music heritage. Led by local guide Joe Nashville on many itineraries, the company provides tours that blend historical context, storytelling, and insider knowledge of Music City.
Tours run primarily in 1.5-hour formats, with private options extending up to 2 hours to accommodate tailored interests. Offerings include a Music Row Walking Tour that visits iconic recording spots such as RCA Studio B, a Downtown Walking Tour focused on historic architecture and local lore, a Dark Side Tour that explores scandal and true-crime tales (adult-oriented), and a Nashville Van Tour that combines comfort with curated stops across the city.
Private Tours are available for visitors seeking a customized experience, led by a local expert who adapts narratives and pacing to the group. All experiences emphasize factual history and local perspective, delivering clear itineraries and predictable durations. The tours cater to visitors who want an informed, compact introduction to Nashville’s music scene, downtown history, and lesser-known stories.
By operating a mix of public walking tours and private guided options, Nashville Experience Tours makes it straightforward for travelers to choose a format that fits mobility, time, and interest levels. Each tour description lists duration and focus so guests can select the best match for their visit to Nashville, Tennessee.
Tours Offered
5
Varied walking and van tours
Private Tours
Local guide option
Private tours led by Joe Nashville
Typical Length
1.5–2 hours
Mostly 1.5 hours per tour
Music Row
Music Row tour
Includes RCA Studio B highlights
Reserve a walking, van, or private tour to experience Music Row, downtown history, or Nashville’s darker tales with a local guide.
Wear comfortable shoes
This tour involves walking through historic districts, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Bring a sense of humor
The stories are told with wit and fun, so keep an open mind and enjoy the entertainment.
Dress for the weather
Check the forecast and dress accordingly—outdoor walking may include varying conditions.
Arrive early
To ensure a full experience, arrive a few minutes before the scheduled start time.
Comfortable walking shoes
Good shoes are essential for a walking tour through Nashville’s streets.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Dress in layers and be prepared for outdoor conditions during the tour.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Small flashlight
Optional but useful if the tour ventures into darker areas or for added visibility.
Camera or smartphone
Capture the haunting stories and sights of Nashville’s darker history.