What Nashville's Pedal Tavern Is

Nashville's Pedal Tavern is a mobile bar on wheels that you and a group pedal together while a driver steers and the business serves drinks. You sit on a bench seat facing outward, pedal in sync with 14 other people, and the vehicle moves through Nashville's streets — usually along Broadway or through the Gulch neighborhood. The pedaling powers the wheels; the drinks come from an onboard bar. It's part bar crawl, part exercise bike, part tour.

The experience is social and public. You're visible to pedestrians and traffic the entire time. A staff member rides along to pour drinks, manage the pace, and keep the group coordinated. Most rides last 2 to 3 hours and cover a few miles of the city.

Key Takeaways

  • Nashville's Pedal Tavern seats 14 to 16 people and requires advance booking; you can book a private group or join a public ride.
  • The cost per person is typically $30 to $40, and drinks are ordered and paid for separately at the onboard bar.
  • You must be at least 21 years old, able to pedal for 2 to 3 hours, and comfortable being visible on a busy street.
  • The route stays on city streets in downtown Nashville, and the driver controls steering and braking while passengers provide pedal power.
  • Rides operate year-round but are weather-dependent; rain or extreme heat may cause cancellations or rescheduling.

How to Book a Ride

You book through Nashville's Pedal Tavern website or by calling their phone number directly. You'll choose a date and time, select whether you're booking a private group (14+ people) or joining an open public ride, and provide the number of riders. Payment is usually taken at booking to hold your spot.

Public rides run on a set schedule — typically evenings and weekends — and you can join with friends or solo. Private groups can often request specific times or routes, though availability depends on the season. Peak times (Friday and Saturday nights, special events) book up weeks in advance, so plan ahead during tourist season or around holidays.

What the Cost Covers

The per-person fee — typically $30 to $40 — covers your seat on the Pedal Tavern, the staff member who manages the ride, and use of the pedal system. This does not include drinks. Beverages are ordered from the onboard bar and charged separately; prices are similar to what you'd pay at a regular bar in Nashville.

Some packages or promotions may bundle a drink or two, so check what's advertised when you book. Tips for the staff member are customary and usually added at the end of the ride.

Age, Fitness, and Physical Requirements

You must be 21 or older to ride. Nashville's Pedal Tavern is not a strenuous workout — the group pedals together at a moderate pace — but you do need to be able to pedal continuously for 2 to 3 hours. If you have knee, hip, or back problems, or if you tire easily, discuss this with the company before booking.

The seat is a bench, not a bicycle saddle, and the pedaling motion is smooth and rhythmic. You don't need cycling experience. However, if you cannot pedal at all or have severe mobility limits, this activity is not suitable. Pregnancy, recent surgery, or serious joint issues are reasons to skip it or check with your doctor first.

What Happens During the Ride

You arrive 15 minutes early, meet your group, and get a safety briefing from the staff. Everyone sits on the bench facing outward, feet on the pedals. The driver gives a countdown, and the group begins pedaling together. The pace is set by the driver and staff — not by individual riders — so you pedal in unison.

The route typically covers downtown Nashville streets, with stops at 1 or 2 bars or scenic spots where you can get off, stretch, and order additional drinks if you want. The staff pours drinks while the Pedal Tavern is moving or stopped. The ride ends back at the starting point, and you're free to go. Most rides take 2 to 3 hours from start to finish.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

Nashville's Pedal Tavern operates year-round, but rides are weather-dependent. Heavy rain, lightning, extreme heat, or ice will cause cancellations or rescheduling. The company monitors the forecast and typically notifies riders 24 hours in advance if conditions look unsafe.

If your ride is canceled, you can reschedule for another date or request a refund of your booking fee. Check the cancellation policy when you book, as it varies by season and promotion. Summer thunderstorms and winter ice are the most common reasons for cancellations in Nashville.

Parking and Getting There

The Pedal Tavern departs from a fixed location in downtown Nashville, usually near Broadway or the Gulch. Street parking is available but can be tight during peak times. Some riders use rideshare (Uber, Lyft) to get to the departure point, especially if they plan to drink.

After the ride ends, you're back at the starting point. If you drove, your car will be where you left it. If you used rideshare, you can call another ride home. Many groups arrange a designated driver or plan to use rideshare for the whole outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own drinks on the Pedal Tavern?

No. Outside alcohol is not permitted. You order and pay for drinks from the onboard bar only. This is a safety and liability requirement.

What if I can't pedal the whole time?

You can rest your legs while others pedal, though the group moves slower if many people stop. Let the staff know at the start if you have concerns; they can advise whether the ride is right for you or suggest alternatives.

Do I have to know the other people in my group?

No. Public rides mix strangers, and the social atmosphere is part of the appeal. If you want a private ride with only your friends, you can book a group of 14 or more and reserve the entire Pedal Tavern.

Is this a safe way to drink and move around the city?

Yes, in the sense that you're not driving — a professional driver steers and brakes. However, you are on a public street and visible to traffic. The pace is slow and controlled, and staff monitor alcohol consumption. Use common sense about how much you drink.

Can I book a Pedal Tavern for a bachelor or bachelorette party?

Yes. Private group bookings are popular for celebrations. Contact the company directly to discuss your date, group size, and any special requests. They often have packages or decorations available for events.