It is no secret that the Music City is quite popular these days. So for residents and tourists that means there is tons to do. With the plethora of restaurants, activities, and hotels, we sought out the best of Nashville. If you had only 24 hours to enjoy the music here is what we would recommend:
Where To Stay
The Hutton Hotel – In one word the Hutton is cool. It is a nicely furnished hotel with modern decor. But the best thing about The Hutton is the service. From the moment you pull up you are their guest and that means your satisfaction is a top priority. The servers and bartenders at 1808 Grille, which is housed inside The Hutton, are top notch. Each time I have visited I have gotten excellent, friendly service equipped with drink recipes that include lavender syrup, jalapeno salt, etc. They are not just nice at The Hutton they are also knowledgeable. Oh and did I mention you may even see a country music star, on my first visit to The Hutton Carrie Underwood was dining at 1808.
Where To Eat
Saint Anejo – Any meal here is great, but brunch at this new hot spot is fabulous! Enjoy chilaquiles like you have never experienced in a small fry pan layered with tortilla strips, salsa, and a fried egg, great guac and salsa, and spicy libations of mezcal or tequila or the bubbly.
Josephine – Chic, yet relaxed with good simple, tasty food. I recommend ordering a few small plates to share like the Brussel sprouts (if you smirk at the idea of Brussel sprouts these are unlike any you have ever experienced, so good they’ve been written up in the New York Times), carrots, and ravioli. The entrees are also hearty yet healthy like salmon or quail.
Rolf & Daughters – One of my favorite restaurants to ever dine, Rolf & Daughters is a must. Dinner is served 5:30 to 10pm and there is usually a line waiting outside the door at 5pm to get in. The food is Italian with southern ingredients. The squid ink canestri is one of the best dishes I have ever eaten in my life.
What To Do
Pinewood Social – A coffee shop, work place, restaurant, bowling alley, bar, and in the summer their swimming pools are open – yes Pinewood Social is one of the coolest, most unique places you will ever set foot in, plus is so clean and pretty inside. The food and coffee are delicious – we had a cup of hot elderflower tea, a goat cheese omelette, and homemade granola, but there was plenty to appeal to all tastes from handcrafted drinks to lobster roll to raw oysters. It is like a club you do not have to qualify to be a part of, you just have to show up, relax, laugh, and have good taste.
Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art – Located in the heart of the Belle Meade area, Cheekwood is absolutely beautiful and throughout the year has some destination exhibits. Their upcoming exhibit featuring the works of Charles Brindley runs February 4 – April 19 and there is tremendous buzz about Brindley and his beautiful trees. Cheekwood also is a great place for children with treehouses, a train at Christmas, and summer camps.
Johnny Cash Museum – A must see. The museum features never before seen historical documents, letters, awards, instruments, and also the last hand written manuscript to the last song Cash ever wrote. The museum has been ranked a top must see by Forbes and National Geographic.
The Basement Nashville - Looking for up and coming, extremely talented musicians as well as surprise notable acts, The Basement is a music lovers must. Forget the typical scene and opt for something not so touristy.
Where To Shop
The Perfect Pair – Located on charming Bandywood Drive, owner Whitney Dunn has loved fashion since she was a little girl. The Perfect Pair sells gorgeous shoes and accessories to some of Nashville’s most notable celebrities. Whether you are looking for something timeless or trendy, The Perfect Pair is a must shop for any style maven.
Billy Reid – Notable Southern designer Billy Reid’s boutique is a must see. Handsomely decorated and carrying all the designer’s best, the store is a fun place to shop whether you are scouting a gift for your husband or conjuring your inner laid back, rockstar.
H.Audrey – Superior taste reigns at H.Audrey. Brands that are hard to find anywhere in the South can be found at H.Audrey. Owned by Holly Williams, H.Audrey is a store for those with high end taste with a modern edge. You will find unique pieces that you will not see other people wearing.
White’s Mercantile – Also owned by Holly Williams, White’s Mercantile is a modern general store equipped all things taseful. From cookbooks to honey to pet supplies, everything is natural and groceries are sourced from humane, local farmers.
Savannah Children – If you are drowning in ruffle pants and wondering where to find elegant, beautiful dresses for little girls look no further than Savannah Children. They are the only manufacturer of luxury children’s clothing in Nashville and their dresses are made from 100% silk dupioni and 100% cotton. They are hand embroidered with covered buttons, french seams, and cotton linings – quality you will be hard pressed to find in today’s world. Savannah Children does not import from China.
UAL – Like a sample sale on steroids, if you are looking for a steal of a deal, UAL is a fun shopping experience just be prepared to dig your way to designer discounts. You may leave with a pair of designer denim at only $20 or Chloe top for $200.