12 South sits about 2 to 3 miles south of Broadway. Here’s what actually works.
Rideshare (Best Option for Most People)
Uber or Lyft takes approximately 10 minutes from downtown or the Gulch to 12 South. Cost runs roughly $10 to $15 under normal conditions. Surge pricing during weekend evenings can push that higher. Drop-off on 12th Avenue South puts you directly on the strip, and from there you walk everything.
If you’re planning to drink at brunch or dinner, rideshare in both directions is the obvious play — parking in 12 South is already a headache, and driving back is unnecessary.
Driving Yourself
It’s straightforward from downtown: head south on 8th Avenue South, or take I-440 to the Granny White Pike exit and navigate to 12th Avenue South. The drive is 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic.
Parking is the problem. Street parking on 12th Avenue South itself is limited and fills by mid-morning on weekends. Side streets off the main drag have free spots, but those fill too. You’ll likely end up parked 3 to 5 blocks from the strip and walking in anyway. Plan for this and arrive early if you want to be close.
WeGo Public Bus
The WeGo bus #7 Hillsboro Pike/Green Hills line runs along 12th Avenue South and connects to downtown. The ride takes roughly 20 to 25 minutes and costs $2. Buses run regularly, but check the schedule before you go — frequency varies by time of day and day of the week. This works well if you have time flexibility and no parking agenda.
Walking
Technically possible, not recommended. The distance is 2 to 3 miles, which is manageable, but the route along 8th Avenue or Hillsboro Pike doesn’t have an interesting pedestrian experience and the roads aren’t built for comfort on foot. Save your walking for once you’re inside the neighborhood.
Biking
More viable than walking if you have or can rent a bike. Nashville’s bikeshare (BCycle) has stations in various parts of the city, though coverage between downtown and 12 South is inconsistent. The ride is 15 to 25 minutes depending on the route. Worth considering if you’re comfortable cycling on urban roads.
Sources
- Orlaghclaire.com, 12 South Nashville Ultimate Guide (January 2025): orlaghclaire.com/travel/12-south-nashville/
- Homes.com, 12 South Neighborhood Guide: homes.com/local-guide/nashville-tn/12-south-neighborhood/
- WeGo Transit: wegotransit.com
- Nashville Go, 12 South Neighborhood: nashvillego.com/neighborhoods/12-south