Nashville Beyond Broadway: A Chic Guide for the Ultimate Trip

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Advisor - Emily Buczek
Curated By

Emily Buczek

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An aerial view of the city during nighttime.
Curator’s statement

Nashville is the ultimate playground for a memorable trip. Beyond its musical prowess, the city boasts a vibrant cultural scene, blending historical charm with modern energy. Whether you're seeking live music, Instagram-worthy spots, or a taste of the local nightlife, you’ll be able to let loose in a city that knows how to have a good time.

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Where to stay in Nashville

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Things to do in Nashville

Shelby-Park-Nashville-travel-guide

Nashville is a city with diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique character and atmosphere. Some notable neighborhoods include:

Downtown:

Downtown is the heart of the city, known for its iconic Broadway Street with honky-tonk bars and live music venues. Just a few blocks down from Broadway is Pinewood Social. Pinewood features a coffee bar, a full-service restaurant, a bowling alley, and a lounge area; it’s a great place to get brunch, drinks, dinner, go bowling, or all of the above!

The Gulch:

A trendy and upscale district featuring modern architecture, high-end boutiques, chic restaurants, and a lively nightlife. The iconic “wings” are painted here!

East Nashville:

East Nashville is known for its artistic and eclectic vibe. It is a neighborhood with a thriving arts scene, diverse restaurants, and historic charm. East Nashville is my personal favorite neighborhood in Nashville! If you are looking to spend some time outside, Shelby Park offers miles of trails and open space perfect for a picnic! I would also recommend checking out Holiday Salon + Bathhouse for a spa day!

12 South:

12 South is a trendy and walkable area with stylish boutiques, coffee shops, and a variety of dining options, popular among locals and visitors. Some of my favorite places to stop by include: Mejuri, Imogene + Willie and Five Daughters Bakery.

Germantown:

Germantown is a historic neighborhood with cobblestone streets, renovated warehouses, and a mix of modern and traditional architecture. Stop by Tempered Fine Chocolates to pick up some truffles, or you can book a Whiskey or Wine & Chocolate Tasting!

Centennial Park:

Located in Centennial Park, The Parthenon stands as a full-scale replica of the iconic ancient Greek structure in Athens.

Sylvan Park:

Sylvan Park is a residential area with a suburban feel, known for its tree-lined streets, craft breweries, and a sense of community. Check out L&L Market, a trendy and dynamic space that offers unique culinary experiences, boutique shopping, and entertainment.

Places to eat & drink in Nashville

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Coffee:

Barista Parlour

With locations in various neighborhoods, Barista Parlor is a favorite among locals and visitors. I highly recommend trying their Strawberry Matcha!

Humphreys Street Coffee

A delightful spot to grab a coffee, breakfast/lunch and get some work done. They also have goods to buy, including soap, sugar and of course, coffee.

Brunch:

Hearts

Located in both East Nashville and 12 South, Hearts serves incredible Australian inspired food and coffee. I absolutely love their brunch, but they also offer a fabulous dinner at their 12 South location.

Proper Bagel

Proper Bagel is a popular restaurant located in Nashville, known for its delicious bagels and modern, chic ambiance. They offer a variety of bagels, spreads, and other breakfast options in a laid-back and stylish setting.

Dinner:

5th & Taylor

Located in Germantown, 5th & Taylor is known for its industrial-chic ambiance and offers a menu that combines Southern influences with modern American cuisine. This is my absolute favorite restaurant in Nashville!

Cafe Roze

Cafe Roze is a trendy and popular cafe located in East Nashville, known for its chic and minimalist design. You can never go wrong ordering the Paprika Chicken here.

Once Upon a Time in France

Nestled within the charming ambiance of a 1920s Parisian bistro, Once Upon A Time in France serves authentic traditional French food in East Nashville. It was voted Best Restaurant in Nashville 2022 by Nashville Scene.

Henrietta Red

Henrietta Red is a popular restaurant located in Nashville's Germantown neighborhood. Known for its stylish and contemporary atmosphere, Henrietta Red is celebrated for its focus on fresh and seasonal seafood offerings.

Bastion

Combining a restaurant and a stylish cocktail lounge, Bastion in the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood is praised for its inventive menu and trendy ambiance.

Lola

A fabulous Spanish restaurant found in Sylvan Park! Really beautiful spot to have dinner or sit at the bar for a drink!

Drinks:

Pearl Diver

Known for its vibrant and tropical atmosphere, Pearl Diver offers an extensive menu of creative and expertly crafted tiki cocktails.

Rosemary & The Beauty Queen

Located in East Nashville, Rosemary & The Beauty Queen is a unique and colorful bar open until 2:00 am and has a DJ on the weekends! RBQ stands out as one of the preferred Nashville bars—a fantastic destination for any time of the day.

Blind Barber

During the day, Blind Barber transforms is a three-chair barbershop specializing in buzz cuts and shaves. As night falls, it evolves into a '70s-inspired speakeasy, offering a variety of cocktails, small plates, and live performances from musicians and DJs. This is my current favorite spot in Nashville!

Le Loup

Upstairs from The Optimist, Le Loup is a vintage-inspired craft cocktail bar open Thursday-Sunday. They have great cocktails and some light bites available!

LA Jackson

LA Jackson is a stylish rooftop bar located atop the Thompson Nashville hotel. Known for its chic ambiance and stunning views of the city skyline, L.A. Jackson offers a diverse menu of craft cocktails and a lively atmosphere, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors.

Flamingo Cocktail Club

Immerse yourself in an ambiance of creativity and luxury at the Flamingo Cocktail Club. With stylish decor, expertly curated cocktails, and diverse music, Flamingo ensures a night of dancing and enjoyment. This is my friend group’s go-to spot for dancing!

Advisor - Emily Buczek

Travel Advisor

Emily Buczek

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Nashville.