Your guide to parking, nearby activities, and making the most of your visit to NMAAM and the Happily Connected Wedding Showcase.
Planning to attend the Happily Connected Wedding Showcase at the National Museum of African American Music this coming Sunday, March 29? Join us for an inspiring afternoon with Nashville’s top wedding professionals and gather fresh ideas for your big day. To make your visit easy from start to finish, we’ve put together a quick guide to HC Showcase parking and nearby activities. Whether you’re arriving early, staying after, or turning the Showcase into a full Nashville outing, downtown has plenty to enjoy. Here’s what to know before you go.
Why Attend the HC Showcase?
The Happily Connected Wedding Showcase is a relaxed, boutique‑style event where you can meet Nashville’s most creative wedding pros and discover fresh inspiration for your big day. From styled displays to meaningful conversations, it’s a welcoming space to explore ideas and connect with vendors who truly care about your vision.
Entrance & Registration Info
Please enter the venue through the main entrance on Rep. John Lewis Way. Our team will check you in, hand out wristbands, and get you registered for giveaways. Engaged couples will receive their showcase wristbands, and museum visitors can sign in with their name and email to join the fun and register for a chance to win a $50 gift card.
Two Easy Parking Options
We’ve put together two simple parking options for the Happily Connected Wedding Showcase on March 29: free parking with a complimentary trolley, or discounted garage parking right next to NMAAM.
Free Parking at Bicentennial Capitol Mall + Complimentary Trolley
Guests can enjoy free parking at Bicentennial Capital Mall, then hop aboard the complimentary trolley provided by Music City Bew Hop, which runs directly to NMAAM throughout the event.
How Riding the Trolley Works
- Boarding at Bicentennial Capitol Mall: Show your Showcase ticket
- Boarding at NMAAM: Wear your purple showcase wristband
- Runs every 30 minutes between 11:45 AM and 4:45 PM. Last trolley leaves NMAAM at 4:30 PM.
It’s simple, convenient, and a fun way to kick off your showcase experience.
Discounted Parking at the 5th & Broadway Garage
Prefer to park right next to the museum? NMAAM offers a discounted flat rate of $22 at the 5th & Broadway garage (entrance beside Eddie V’s).
To receive the discount:
- Download the Metropolis App before entering
- Register your car and license plate
- Park on the B1 Level
- Before leaving NMAAM, enter your plate number at one of the lobby kiosks
GPS Address for NMAAM: 598 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
Make a Day of It
Whether you’re parking near Bicentennial Capital Mall or going straight to the National Museum of African American Music, there’s no shortage of things to explore before or after the Showcase. From peaceful parks and historic landmarks to vibrant downtown attractions, you’ll find plenty of ways to turn your visit into a full Nashville outing. Here’s a look at what’s nearby in both areas.
Things to Do Near Bicentennial Capital Mall
If you’re parking at Bicentennial Capital Mall, or want to explore before or after the showcase, there’s plenty to enjoy within walking distance or a quick drive.
A beautiful, historic green space perfect for a pre‑showcase stroll. Highlights include:
- The Tennessee Map Plaza, a massive granite map of the state
- The World War II Memorial
- The Rivers of Tennessee Fountains (a favorite for families)
- Peaceful walking paths with skyline views
Nashville Farmers’ Market
The Nashville Farmers’ Market, which is next to Bicentennial Capitol Mall, features local produce, artisan goods, and a global food hall, perfect for coffee, lunch, or a quick treat before the trolley.
Centennial Park (a short drive away)
If you want to extend your day even further, Centennial Park offers:
- The iconic Parthenon
- Lake Watauga walking paths
- Seasonal gardens and art installations
- Plenty of space to relax, picnic, or take photos
It’s a lovely add‑on if you’re making a full Nashville outing around the showcase.
Things to Explore Near NMAAM
Once you arrive downtown, you’re steps away from some of Nashville’s most vibrant attractions.
National Museum of African American Music
If you haven’t visited before, consider arriving early or staying after the showcase to explore the museum’s immersive galleries celebrating Black music history. The museum is open from Noon until 5 PM.
5th & Broadway
This lively district offers:
- Restaurants and quick bites
- Local boutiques
- Rooftop views
- Dessert spots perfect for a post‑showcase treat
Broadway Honky Tonks
If you’re in the mood for live music, Nashville’s famous Broadway Honky Tonks are just steps away.
These are just a few ideas; Nashville has so much to explore.
We Can’t Wait to See You There
The Happily Connected Wedding Showcase is more than a planning opportunity; it’s a chance to enjoy downtown Nashville’s energy.
Whether you choose free parking with the trolley or the discounted garage next door, getting to the showcase is easy, and the surrounding neighborhoods offer plenty to enjoy before and after the event. Make it a date, make it a girls’ day, or make it a full Nashville adventure.
Grab your tickets to The Wedding Showcase here and start planning your perfect Nashville day.