If there’s one thing that’s certain about Nashville, Tennessee, it’s the range of awesome neighborhoods to discover and explore! There is no shortage of interesting things to see and do when you visit Music City. Here at Stroll, we can tell you the hardest decision you’ll have to make is where you should head first. So whether you’re a first-timer to Nashville, or you’ve been through town a few times before, let’s break down some can’t-go-wrong neighborhoods and sights you’re sure to enjoy!
SoBro
Downtown Nashville’s SoBro neighborhood (“South of Broadway”) is a former warehouse district that has been beautifully revitalized within the last 20 years or so. Among its gems is the Music City Center convention complex completed in 2013, as well as notable hotel brands including Marriott, Hilton, Omni, and Westin. When south of Broad, be sure to earn your Nashville stripes with a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame. After all, did you even visit Nashville, Tennessee is you didn’t soak in the city’s country music heritage? We think not! And if you’re a country music fan who’s a big fan of the Man in Black, you’ll want to make a stop at the Johnny Cash Museum in SoBro, too.
The Gulch
Another revitalized neighborhood just west of Downtown and SoBro is The Gulch – a revitalized, LEED Certified community known for its upscale shopping, dining, and trendy hotels. Many call this area in Nashville the newest “cool neighborhood” and place-to-be. Locally owned restaurants, boutiques, unique shops, and salons will give you the “local” feel you may be craving as a weekend visitor. Pick a nice fall weekend and start Strolling the streets of one of Nashville’s coolest, reimagined neighborhoods – The Gulch!
Music Valley
Venture east approximately 10 miles from Downtown Nashville and you’ll discover one of the area’s most storied and legendary attractions in Music Valley – the Grand Old Opry. Considered by many to be a Mecca of sorts for country music artists and fans alike, the Opry should definitely be on your Nashville bucket list if you love of country music. The Music Valley area also boasts Opry Mills® shopping center, Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, and several other amazing country-music themed attractions and restaurants. If you can’t be without country music, Music Valley is a must-see!
Downtown Nashville
If you are a connoisseur of the visual arts, be sure to include the Frist Art Museum on your list of things to see while visiting Nashville. Located on Broadway in downtown between the Gulch and North Gulch neighborhoods, the Frist Art Museum houses its exhibits in a building formally the site of Nashville’s historic U.S. Postal Service building. Built in the 1930s, the structure is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and considered by many to be a work of art in its own right.
South Nashville
When you’re ready to venture out of the urban core of downtown Nashville, venture six miles south to Nashville Zoo at Grassmere. A perfect outing for families traveling with children, the Nashville Zoo is located on approximately 188 acres and features 3,000 animals on exhibit representing more than 350 different species. If you’re heading to the zoo, plan two-to-three hours for your outing – there’s a lot of wonderful things to see and do!
Germantown
Located a few blocks northwest of downtown, Germantown is a truly walkable section of town. European immigrants originally settled this now eclectic neighborhood in the 19th century. The area is rich with restored Victorian buildings now the site of fabulous eateries, sophisticated boutiques, and even the renowned Nashville Farmers’ Market. Germantown is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, as well. So, history buffs are sure to be extra-intrigued beyond the area’s charming renovated warehouses and critically acclaimed restaurants.
12South
Yet another lovely walkable Nashville neighborhood is known as 12South, or 12th Avenue South as it’s more formally called. This charming area has a small footprint, yet can keep you occupied for quite some time without surpassing its boundaries. If you’re into vintage shopping and enjoying locally produced options for coffee, doughnuts, cocktails, or beautiful clothing; then the 12South neighborhood is for you!
Too many choices have your head spinning? Just hop onboard Old Town Trolley Tours!
If you’re preparing to visit Nashville and want a true “tourist” experience that lets you sample a lot of what Nashville has to offer, check out Old Town Trolley Tours. These cool, double-decker trolleys have a nostalgic feel and offer 14 designated stops with unlimited hop-on-and-off privileges! According to Old Town Trolley Tour’s website, “….More than just a sightseeing tour, it’s a fun and educational adventure as your trolley conductor provides an entertaining narration that includes little known facts and behind-the-scenes tips.”
Get started with stroll today!When you’re ready for some spur-of-the-moment fun or want to take full advantage of exploring a new city, you’ll want stroll to be your guide. As your digital concierge, stroll delivers real-time, personalized experiences based on your current location, personal interests, or current mood. Download stroll on you mobile device today — and discover something awesome today!
