The main tourist areas in Nashville are generally very safe. However, it's best not to walk through less-populated downtown streets and back alleys late at night, and follow the usual urban advice of not leaving valuables in your car in an unguarded lot. It's not advisable to be at any of the parks or monuments (e.g., Centennial Park or Bicentennial Mall) late at night unless a big event is being held there.
For a dire medical or other emergency, dial 911. Otherwise, Vanderbilt University Medical Center (1211 22nd Ave., phone 615-322-5000) and St. Thomas Hospital (4220 Harding Road, phone 615-222-2111) both have emergency rooms. If you need a doctor for a nonemergency, call Vanderbilt Medical Group Physician Referral Service (phone 615-322-3000). Nashville's microclimate is notorious for aggravating sinus and allergy problems. Given all the singers who need to keep their pipes clear, it's not surprising that there are plenty of good doctors here who specialize in treating those problems. Nashville can be very hot and humid in the summer, so dress sensibly, drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen. Watch for poison ivy on wooded hiking trails and apply bug repellent.
To a large degree, the sights, shops, restaurants, hotels and business establishments are wheelchair accessible. The majority of historical sites offer limited wheelchair accessibility on at least the first floor. A few of the city's parks have trails designed for wheelchair use. For more detailed information, call the Disability Information Office at 615-862-6492.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority operates specially equipped vans with wheelchair access. This service is called Access Ride and can be arranged by contacting MTA at 615-880-3970 Monday-Friday 8 am-4:30 pm.
Deaf visitors may request interpreting services at venues where they are attending shows, such as at the Ryman Auditorium.
Do drink a Yazoo beer. This award-winning local brew comes in plenty of excellent varieties.
Don't confine yourself to downtown and the Music Valley areas for every meal. Most of the best eateries are located elsewhere.
Do take a cab or walk when bar-hopping: DUI convictions kick in at 0.08% blood alcohol.
Don't visit Nashville during the Country Music Fan Fair in early June if you're not a die-hard country-music fan. It's overwhelming and it won't be your crowd.
Do check out a musical performance. No matter what kind you're into, Music City will usually be hosting something to please during your stay.
