Welcome to our city, the music city
This is your guide to all things Nashville tailored to you by Nashville locals.
Getting Around Nashville
You’ve officially touched down at the Nashville International Airport (BNA), now where to next?
Click below for a map of Nashville. We dropped a pin for our shop and the airport for reference.
10 Places To Stay
Gaylord Opryland Hotel
An attraction in itself, the Gaylord Opryland Hotel is an experience like no other. With hotel rooms that overlook the beautifully landscaped interior that feature waterfalls, rivers, streams, and more. We can almost guarantee you won’t run out of things to do and places to eat inside the hotel, but if you do you can check out the hotels’ latest addition - Soundwaves Water Experience. This hotel will truly make your stay unlike any other.
Bobby Hotel
If you are looking to immerse yourself in the music culture in Nashville, look no further than the Bobby Hotel in downtown Nashville. This hotel gives you a 5-star experience of life on the road featuring small musical nuances throughout the hotel to pay homage to Music City. Believe it or not, the fun begins on the roof. The Bobby features a rooftop bar where you can lounge in a cabana, play games, swim in the pool, or hang out in the 1956 Greyhound bus lounge.
Local tip: This hotel is known for having seasonal events on their rooftop. From live concerts in the summer to igloo huts in the winter, this is a rooftop many rave about.
JW Marriott
Make your stay in Nashville as luxurious as possible by saying at the JW Marriott - Nashville’s first luxury hotel. This hotel caters to your every whim to ensure your stay in Nashville is as enjoyable as possible. Located in downtown Nashville across from the Music City Center and two blocks away from the famous “Honky Tony Highway" on Broadway, you’re almost guaranteed the most luxurious Nashville experience.
Local tip: The JW Marriott has a mouth-watering steakhouse called Bourbon Steak that has breathtaking panoramic views of Nashville.
21c Museum Hotel
Wanting to explore the artsy side of Nashville? The 21c Museum Hotel is the place for you. This hotel is woven into the fabric of downtown, welcoming guests and locals to enjoy their curated exhibitions, cultural programming and the array of food offerings at the Gray & Dudley restaurant. Located close to Nissan Stadium, Bridgestone Arena, and Broadway, you are within walking distance to everything Nashville has to offer.
Local tip: This is one of the most artsy hotels in Nashville and is a top pick for any art enthusiast to stay.
Thompson Nashville
When luxury and music combine, you achieve the look and feel of the Thompson. The Thompson features floor-to-ceiling windows in every room that let you take in the Nashville skyline during the day and the city lights at night. Throughout the hotel you will notice hints of music themed decorations to make you feel right at home in “Music City.”
The Westin
Located in the heart of downtown, The Westin Hotel offers a luxurious experience that can’t be beat. From the expansive rooms, to their very own Westin Heavenly Beds, the Westin Hotel is the pinnacle of comfort and luxury in downtown Nashville. It’s location also puts Nashville’s lively downtown scene just steps from the front lobby. The rooftop pool provides a panorama of downtown with a touch of elegance other hotels could only dream of achieving.
Omni Hotel
An architectural work of art in itself, the Omni Hotel was built out of natural materials, exposed steel, and regionally sourced limestone to ingrain itself as a visual expression of downtown Nashville. The Omni is also fully integrated with the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum making itself a one-of-a-kind when it comes to experiencing Nashville’s country music scene. If you’re looking to hop right in to Nashville’s Downtown music scene, you won’t want to go anywhere other than the Omni Hotel.
Cambria Hotel
Want to experience live music, grab a drink, eat dinner, and enjoy a roof-top pool without ever leaving the building? Look no further than the Cambria Hotel located in downtown Nashville. This upscale hotel has all the tech-centric amenities you want wrapped in casual luxury throughout the hotel. The Cambria is the total Nashville experience all in one location.
Loews Vanderbilt Hotel
Located across from Vanderbilt University, this hotel is off the beaten path from most downtown tourists and puts you near some of Nashville’s most renowned attractions. Take advantage of the hotel’s car service that can drop you off in the heart of Broadway or Downtown to explore Nashville to your heart’s desire.
Union Station Hotel
Take a step back into the early 1900’s at this hotel. This 100-year-old historic hotel puts you close to everything downtown all while providing you modern convenience coupled with classical elegance. This hotel features 65-foot vaulted ceilings, beautiful artwork, and Romanesque architecture throughout the hotel. If you you enjoy historical architecture, you won’t want to stay anywhere other than the Union Station Hotel.
10 Things To Do
Broadway
Think you have what it takes for a night on Broadway? Grab a drink and find a partner because Broadway is home to some of the most notorious honky tonks in the country. Not into a wild night out? Settle in at one of the countless live music bars to listen to some of the best under-discovered talent Nashville has to offer. Grab your boots because either way, you’re bound to have a good time!
Ryman Auditorium
Considered one of the world’s most significant music heritage sites, the Ryman Auditorium has roots in Nashville dating back to 1885. Over the years, the Ryman has hosted the likes of Harry Houdini, Charlie Chaplin, Elvin Presley, Johnny Cash, and an endless list of other world-renowned talent. The Ryman is a piece of Nashville’s history and continues to ingrain itself as one of Nashville’s most sought-after venues to play at. If you’re a history buff, music lover, or looking for a jaw-dropping performance - look no further than the Ryman.
Local tip: The Ryman hosts daily tours of the venue that give you behind-the-scenes access and a look into this historical venue.
The Backyard Axe Throwing League
Booze, Food, and Axe Throwing - What more could you ask for? Axe throwing has taken Nashville by storm and you won’t want to miss out on this latest crazy. If you’re looking to try something new or just let your competitive spirit come out, this is the place for you. With instructors at the ready, they’ll teach you everything you need to know about Axe throwing. You’ll not only have a new skill mastered from your visit, but plenty of laughs and memories too.
Local tip: Make a reservation ahead of time so you can get to throwing as soon as you walk in the door.
The Parthenon
Take a trip back to Ancient Greece without the need for a passport or time machine! The Parthenon, located in Centennial Park, was erected in 1897 and has attracted tourists from all over to visit. Aside from being a 1:1 replica of the Parthenon in Athens, Greece, it also doubles as a history museum and event center. The museum hosts a plethora of traveling exhibits and art collections along with permanent displays such as the statue of Athena, the tallest indoor statue in the country.
Topgolf
Where can you find a sports bar, restaurant, live entertainment, and work on your golf swing all in the same location? Topgolf is one of the latest phenomenons to join the Nashville scene. If you are looking for an alternative to a night on Nashville’s Broadway, this is the place to be. Sit back, have a drink, share some laughs with colleagues, and enjoy a friendly competition at the driving range while not missing a beat of the Nashville nightlife.
GRAND OLE OPRY
Having once been hosted in the Ryman Auditorium and being equally as ingrained in Nashville’s history, the Grand Ole Opry is the stage for some of the biggest names in country music history, Each performance is made up of members of the Opry along with a plethora of special guests that span multiple generations of artists and a broad spectrum of country music styles. When it comes to having a good ole time, you can’t beat a night out at the Opry.
Local tip: Much like the Ryman, daytime tours let you experience the backstage of one of the biggest stages in country music.
Pinewood Social
Drinks and lounging, and bowling, oh my! This eclectic hangout spot in downtown Nashville offers up an outdoor patio entertainment area, bar, and a six lane bowling alley. Have some drinks, roll a few strikes, and share a few memories of a night out at Pinewood Social.
Local tip: If you’re one to follow the word of the wise, Anthony Bourdain stopped by the Pinewood Social for drinks and gave nothing but praise for the local spot.
The Station INN
If hole-in-the-wall live music venues are your things, this is one that won’t fail to impress. Venture off Broadway to The Station Inn located in The Gulch. This spot is known to locals as one of the best places to experience bluegrass music in Nashville. If you’re looking for a spot that holds true to the “Music City” name, this is one that you will want to check out.
Local tip: Sunday Nights are a free Bluegrass Jam where local Nashville talent come and play.
THE GULCH
Ready to shop till’ you drop, grab a bite to eat at some of the finest restaurants, and take a picture in front of the famous #WhatLiftsYou wings? If so, this suburb of Nashville is the place for you. Home to some of the chicest shops & boutiques, breweries & bars, and eateries - the Gulch is a trendsetting Nashville neighborhood you don’t want to miss checking out.
12TH aVENUE sOUTH
Want to live like the locals for a day? 12th Avenue South in Nashville will have you feeling like a native in no time.. Shop until you drop at any of the 15+ stores unique to the Nashville area and once you work up an appetite, grab a bite to eat at some of Nashville’s most coveted local restaurants.
Local tip: If you’re looking to take a picture in front of a mural like a true tourist, this is the place to do it.
10 Places To Eat
MOTO
Ready to wine + dine exquisite Italian food? Moto is known for their ability to master a variety of Italian dishes with their own twist to classic dishes. They are also masters at pairing your meal with the perfect wine for an out-of-this-world Italian cuisine experience.
Local tip: Walk-ins are welcome but reservations ahead of time are recommended.
Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse
Steaks so tender, they’ll fall apart on your plate. Look no further than Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse for some of the best steaks Nashville has to offer. This classic American-style dining experience is set to live piano playing for a complete formal dining experience. Not a steak person? Jeff Ruby’s also prides themselves in other American cuisine, seafood, and much more.
The Patterson House
If you have been looking for an exquisite hand-made cocktail, look no further than The Patterson House. Known for it’s incredible cocktails, this upscale tavern-style bar offers an ambient atmosphere, making for a great place for cocktails with friends and colleagues. The Patterson House prides itself in creating an inviting and social atmosphere. No cell phones allowed near the bar so you’re guaranteed an uninterrupted conversation.
City House
When it comes to Italian food, City House knocks it right out of the park. This is a cozy Italian restaurant that serves all of the classic pizza, pasta, and homemade sausage with Southern a flair that will keep you coming back for more.
Local tip: Make a reservation to ensure a spot. It will be worth it, Trust us.
Jack’s Bar-B-Que
Arguably the “King of Nashville Bar-B-Que,” Jack Cawthon started Jack’s Bar-B-Que in 1976 and has since reigned on top as one of the most popular Bar-B-Que joints in Nashville. With a unique hybrid of Texas and Tennessee style bar-b-que and a variety of regionally inspired sauces, you won’t find a joint as unique in flavor as Jack’s.
Local tip: The downtown location is packed full of Nashville history - but you’ll wait in line for a good bit. If you want good bar-b-que and very little wait, check out their 334 W. Trinity Lane location near our shop.
House of Cards
Abracadabra! Teleport to an alternate magic-filled universe where the food and drinks are exquisite and the magic will leave you questioning reality. This upscale dining experience is unique to Nashville and features classic American cuisine, hand-crafted cocktails, and plenty of up-close magic. The atmosphere itself is worth the visit with multi-million dollar art, European antiques, and magic-related artifacts decorating the entirety of the 10.000 sq. ft. space.
Local tip: Make sure to reserve a table and dress to impress. This will be a dining experience you’ll never forget.
The Farmer’s Market
If everyone in the group can’t decide on a place to eat, look no further than the Nashville Farmer’s Market. Under one roof, you’ll find 20 different locally owned restaurants that bring ethnic foods from all corners of the world. It’s almost a guarantee that everyone can get what they want.
Monell’s
From biscuits and cornbread that will make you question if Nashville is heaven to fried chicken and sweet tea that will leave you wanting more than your stomach can handle, Monell’s is the comfort-food central for southern cuisine. Prepare for a truly unique experience as you sit communal-style with other guests. You’ll not only eat together, but you will get to experience the cultural melting pot that is Nashville. You may even learn of a best-kept-secret from a Nashville local.
Local tip: Monell’s menu changes daily so check out their website for today’s menu: https://monellstn.com/nashville We also recommend going here after 1pm due to the Nashville lunch rush.
Hattie B’s
Looking for a Nashville classic? Look no further than Hattie B’s Hot Chicken. This is one of the many Nashville Hot Chicken restaurants in the city that lays claim to having the “best hot chicken in Nashville.” We’ll let you be the judge of that.
Local tip: The store located at 5209 Charlotte Ave, Nashville, TN 37209 has one of the lowest wait times of all their locations.
etch
Since becoming the first woman in Tennessee to be certified as an executive chef, Deb Paquette has proven time and again that her restaurant is a leader in Nashville and the country. Named one of the top sixty restaurants in the United States, ETCH has been a restaurant Nashvillians have flocked to since it’s opening in the summer of 2012. We’ll leave the countless awards do the talking and let you enjoy a night out of fine-dining you will talk about the whole trip home.