Planning on going to the country music capital of the USA? I don’t blame you, Nashville is full of music studios, culture, food, and art! So if you need help deciding where to stay in Nashville, you are on the right site!
I have picked the 8 best neighborhoods to stay in Nashville and the best hotels in each one. So you have different options for any interest and budget, whether you are visiting for the first time, traveling with your family, cheering for the Tennessee Titans, or just visiting for the country music!
But to be honest, the best area to stay in Nashville is Downtown Nashville because it is full of music venues, delicious restaurants and many historical and cultural attractions!
Looking for something else? I will also talk about East Nashville, The West End & MidTown, The Gulch, Germantown, 12 South and of course, the Music Valley & Opryland! So if you are looking for the best place to stay for couples, families, foodies and more I’m sure you will find the option to cover your needs!
This city, home of country music, has many things to offer visitors: live music venues, famous recording studios, outstanding entertainment, and many more attractions! That is why Nashville has become a top vacation destination for many tourists, so if you find a hotel you like, I recommend you book as soon as you decide, otherwise someone might steal your spot!
Are you ready to dive into the best hotels and areas for music lovers? Let’s go!
Contents
- If you are in a hurry
- 1. Downtown Nashville – where to stay for the first time
- 2. East Nashville – top area to stay for shopping
- 3. West End / Hillsboro Village – best for budget travelers
- 4. Music Row / Midtown – best area to stay for nightlife
- 5. The Gulch – where to stay in Nashville for a trendy vibe
- 6. Germantown – where to stay in Nashville for families
- 7. 12 South – where to stay in Nashville for foodies
- 8. Music Valley / Opryland – top area to stay for music lovers
- BONUS: Best hotels near Nashville International Airport
- FAQs about Nashville hotels
If you are in a hurry
In case you don’t have the time to skim through the whole article, I have the best of the best for you here – all these properties are in Downtown Nashville and have fab reviews (be sure to book in advance!):
Here is a quick visualization of all the significant areas in Nashville which I will be discussing in this post. Read on to find out more!
for first timers
for shopping
budget travelers
for nightlife
most trendy
for families
for foodies
for music lovers
1. Downtown Nashville – where to stay for the first time
If you are wondering where to stay in Nashville for the first time, THIS is the best area for you!
Downtown Nashville (including Lower Broadway) is a neighborhood located in the geographic city center. As the heart of the music city beats, Downtown is a hub for entertainment – overflowing with music venues, cultural amenities, and historical attractions.
Furthermore, most people choose Downtown Nashville to enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience on Lower Broadway. The bars offer live music – welcoming guests to party until the early morning hours.
But Downtown Nashville / Lower Broadway is not just for partiers! Apart from restaurants, bars, hotels, and great views of the Cumberland River, Downtown Nashville or SoBro (South of Broadway) includes Bridgestone Arena, the Country Music Hall of Fame, Tennessee State Capitol, Nissan Stadium, Walk of Fame Park, the Johnny Cash Museum, the Ryman Auditorium where you can find a sign that commemorates the birth of the best bluegrass music.
Cambria Hotel Nashville Downtown
One of the best luxury hotels to stay in Nashville, more so in the Downtown area! This 4-star hotel is 2 blocks from Lower Broadway; it has a swimming pool, a bar, and a great fitness center. It is within walking distance of local attractions like Bridgestone Arena, and Johnny Cash Museum, making it a perfect location to stay in Nashville for first-timers!
Other Accommodation Options in Downtown
Historic Studio on Famous Music Row
A newly renovated piece of history near Nashville’s Music row, Nissan Stadium and city center!
One of the best Downtown hotels! A contemporary stay with interesting art decor in the music city center close to the Nashville Public Library, Ryman Auditorium!
Good value for money within walking distance to the downtown area and Ryman Auditorium. Plus, you can enjoy its on-site restaurant!
2. East Nashville – top area to stay for shopping
If you want to stay near the music scene, this area is for you!
East Nashville is home to stylish vintage boutiques, talented local artists and musicians, and vendors of handcrafted goods. Not to forget the delicious restaurants where you can taste traditional cuisine and the vibrant bars where you can hear locals performing some free live music!
Moreover, if you are up for a little shopping, East Nashville will become your favorite spot. This is one of the places to stay in Nashville, especially for those wanting a calmer stay but still wanting to enjoy country music and the city vibes.
Beer lovers will enjoy this neighborhood for its beer gardens and some of the best burgers.
his is one of the best East Nashville hotels to stay in with a unique style. The accommodation includes a shared lounge, free WiFi throughout the property, and free private parking for guests who drive. The Russel is the perfect opportunity to experience something non-traditional in a hotel at a quiet location!
Other Accommodation Options in East Nashville
A quiet private cottage nestled right in the heart of East Nashville and just a short drive to downtown
A very unique place with all the comfort you will find in a regular hotel which will make you feel like home
Clarion Hotel Downtown Nashville
Located in East Nashville a 3 star hotel with a swimming pool, free buffet-style breakfast and free parking
3. West End / Hillsboro Village – best for budget travelers
Situated next to Vanderbilt University, the West End (or Hillsboro Village, as people like to call it) is a lively and upscale central location within the city.
Centennial Park – Nashville’s largest urban park is located here and represents the heart of daytime activities. A popular attraction is the Partenón – a full-scale replica of the Athenian statue in Greece.
The West End is famous for its nightlife and entertainment, so it’s no wonder you will spot many students here.
All in all, the West End is a popular area to stay in Nashville, so let’s see some of the most affordable hotels and rentals:
Comfortable, super clean rooms with quick and kind service. This 4* hotel is located in the West End area, just across the street from Vanderbilt University, has spacious rooms and a free gym for sport junkies!
Other Accommodation Options in West End
This simple yet spacious and clean private room can accommodate 2 people, and the location in the West End area is superb!
A fantastic value for money with excellent facilities, including a fitness center, and it is super close to Centennial Park and Vanderbilt University!
Private and beautifully decorated cottage apartment inside a large historic home close to Centennial Park
4. Music Row / Midtown – best area to stay for nightlife
One of the best neighborhoods to enjoy the music all night long!
Take a stroll along 16th and 17th Avenue, and you will reach the most creative neighborhood of country music moguls and recording studios, the mecca of country music. The old brick houses have transformed into fantastic recording studios and offices of record labels and music publishers offices.
So if you are keen on the music scene, concerts, or passionate about country music (or any type of music for that matter), this place should be on your list!
To get the most out of this area, I suggest a tour with a knowledgeable guide that can walk you through the history and roots of Nashville music production. The streets are named after famous country singers of the old days.
As this section is dedicated to the music industry, you will find the Country Music Hall of Fame. So, if you have enough time, include a visit to this building.
This hotel has everything excellent – the reviews, the cleanness, the comfort of the rooms, the location – super close to Country Music Hall! A perfect stay for country music fans. The room’s decor is super modern, and the outdoor pool is to die for!
Other Accommodation Options in Music Row
Luxe, Spacious & Private Apartment
A newly constructed luxurious 4-bedroom apartment only two blocks from Music Row and a walking distance to everything!
Excellent location right on Music row, only a few minutes from Hillsboro, The Gulch, and Germantown!
Very affordable quiet accommodation close to Music row bars and many trendy restaurants
5. The Gulch – where to stay in Nashville for a trendy vibe
Long ago, the Gulch neighborhood was home to abandoned warehouses, factory buildings, and empty lots. Today, it has become the most modern neighborhood in Nashville, surrounded by luxury apartments, fancy hotels, trendy restaurants, and bars – some of them with live music!
This little corner is in between Midtown, SoBro, and Music Row, making this the perfect place to find something to fit everybody’s taste. Bluegrass enthusiasts can have a fun-filled experience of banjos and mandolins performance at the Station Inn.
But if you are interested in visual arts, I would recommend The Frist Center for Visual Arts – an art deco-style building full of complex design and details.
So, if you want to feel like a local, then you should consider booking a hotel/ apartment here.
This lovely boutique hotel is located right in the Gulch neighborhood and provides a unique room experience with floor-to-ceiling windows. You’ll find a convenient rooftop bar and an on site restaurant next door and an excellent coffee shop downstairs. Cool, clean, and comfortable – you will simply love it!
Other Accommodation Options in The Gulch
Enjoy one of the best neighborhoods while visiting Nashville in this modern apartment, just a short drive from the tourist attractions
Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott
Excellent location in the Gulch, amazing complimentary breakfast, and exceptional rooftop bar/lounge
This super modern hotel is a clean home-away-home with everything you need for your trip
6. Germantown – where to stay in Nashville for families
Established in the mid 19th century, Germantown is one of the most developed suburbs that boasts jam-packed boutiques, friendly restaurants, and upbeat bars.
This neighborhood is great for families as there are plenty of fun things to do, it is located just a bit North from Downtown.
When you walk around Germantown, I suggest stopping at Steadfast Coffee for some really good coffee or a quick bite for breakfast.
For an authentic experience, you can book a little apartment or an adorable hotel with a broad view of the city’s skyline. Another thing you can do here is shopping – the area is dotted with superb boutiques!
Nestled inside a two-story Federal style 1865 building, this historic home offers modern rooms with views of Downtown Nashville and Germantown. A perfect opportunity to escape the craziness of the city.
Other Accommodation Options in Germantown
Super convenient loft, right in the middle of Germantown, close to everything, yet quiet and discrete
A great option for a quick night’s stay, very close to all the sights
7. 12 South – where to stay in Nashville for foodies
This neighborhood might have a small geographical area, but it is one of the best places to stay in Nashville if you love your food.
This residential area is not only known for its architecture full of bungalow-style homes and boutique shops, but here you will find incredible food options for all your cravings!
This is one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Nashville, so I’m sure you will enjoy a nice walk in the streets of 12 South to enjoy its never ending options of local restaurants and family restaurants that serve tasty local cuisine – of course, with some live music in the background!
12 South is also home to the iconic mural “I Believe in Nashville,” where you can visit and snap a picture!
If you are craving a little more time spent outdoors, you can check out Sevier Park – one of the best parks in Nashville! This incredible park has two play sets, a spacious outdoor picnic area, a community center, and a ‘Sunnyside’ that once sat in the middle of Union and Confederate battle lines during the Battle of Nashville in 1864.
This is one of the best luxury hotels to stay in Nashville! The facilities in Moxy Nashville include air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom, and in case you rent a car the property offers private parking on site. It is also close to major attractions like the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, the Johnny Cash Museum, and many more!
Other Accommodation Options in 12 South
Steps away from the best restaurants and retail in Nashville’s trendy 12 South neighborhood, this is one of the best vacation rentals out there!
Close to the Bridgestone Arena, this hotel will give you the best experience to enjoy the vibrant night scene of 12 South for reasonable prices
This cozy loft is a great price and close to Nashville Downtown, Belmont University, and many more attractions!
8. Music Valley / Opryland – top area to stay for music lovers
As they say, if Downtown is the “heart” of Nashville… then the Music Valley/Opryland area is the city’s “head”
Music Valley is one of the liveliest neighborhoods in the Music City, so if you want to be surrounded by the best country music fans, world-class country music entertainment, family-friendly dining establishments, and bargain shopping, search no more!
Music Valley is home to the Grand Ole Opry (you can book a backstage tour here), Opry Mills shopping center, Gaylord Opryland Resort, Convention Center, SoundWaves, and some fantastic country-music-themed attractions and restaurants.
Check out the best hotels in the neighborhood below!
Looking for a luxury stay in Music Valley near the Grand Ole Opry? This is the best Music Valley hotel to stay in Nashville. Featuring a glass atrium, surrounded by 9 acres of indoor gardens, winding rivers and waterfalls, 15 on-site restaurants, 4 bars and multiple retails stores – you will find everything you need to enjoy your stay in Nashville!
Other Options in Music Valley / Opryland
Located just one mile from the Grand Ole Opry, this Airbnb in Club Wyndham provides amenities including live performances, arts and crafts, ice cream socials, and barbecues!
The perfect option in Music Valley if you don’t want to spend a lot of money but still be near many attractions and dining options!
One of the best budget hotels in Music Valley with free airport shuttle service, free breakfast, and you can take a boat tour of the Cumberland River on the nearby General Jackson Showboat
| 👑 Luxury price: | $300 |
| 💵 Mid Range: | $200 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | $150 |
| 💰Accommodation prices: | Mid |
| 📍Best neighborhood: | Downtown Nashville |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Kimpton Aertson Hotel |
| 💵 Mid-range hotel: | BentoLiving Chestnut Hill |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Margaritaville Hotel |
BONUS: Best hotels near Nashville International Airport
Sometimes the last thing you want to do after a long flight is to travel to a hotel room and be stuck in traffic or maybe you need to wake up at 3 a.m to catch an early flight back home.
It can be dreadful to travel to the airport while it’s still nighttime. Or, in the worst-case scenario – to finally arrive at the airport only to find out that your flight has been canceled.
So, you might consider booking a hotel room near the airport for your first and last night. You can wake up later in the morning and have a proper breakfast. Moreover, the rates at many hotel rooms near the airport can be considerably cheaper.
This hotel is located only 1.2 mi away from Nashville International Airport, and it has a free airport shuttle. It has a huge swimming pool (two), a bar, a great equipped gym, and many more things to entertain you while waiting for your flight. It also offers spacious rooms with comfy beds if you just want to sleep.
Other Accommodation Options Near The Airport
A cozy guest suite with clean, modern feel in a quiet neighborhood near both the airport and the Opry!
This incredible hotel offers free transfer service to Nashville International Airport, and it has an indoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and many more facilities!
Club Hotel Nashville Inn & Suites
One of the best cheap hotels very close to the airport yet in a quiet area. The hotel offers a seasonal outdoor pool, indoor hot tub, and a fitness center on-site!
FAQs about Nashville hotels
📍 What is the best area to stay in Nashville?
The best area to stay in Nashville has to be Downtown, you will find everything you need, and most attractions are in this neighborhood! Hyatt House Nashville Downtown is a great option to spend your stay in Downtown Nashville!
🤠 Where to stay in Downtown Nashville?
The best hotels in Downtown Nashville include Cambria Hotel Nashville Downtown which is a great luxury option, and if you prefer a more affordable stay, I recommend TownePlace Suites!
💑 Where to stay in Nashville for couples?
Traveling with your partner? I recommend staying the area of 12 South! You will find many restaurant options and it is full of fun attractions and things to do on date night with your significant other!
🎹 Where should I stay, Music Row or Downtown?
If you want to check all the recording studios, and learn more about country music then I recommend Music Row; on the other hand, if you prefer a more touristy area with activities for all interest, then Downtown is the place for you!
🍻 Where is the street with all the bars?
Located in Lower Downtown, Honky Tonk Highway is a street full of live music from 10 pm to 3 am.
✈️ What is the best month to go to Nashville?
The best time to visit aNashville is from April through October when the warm weather brings this music city to life. 2 or 3 days are enough to explore all the tourist attractions
🚗 Do I need a car in Nashville?
The best way to get around Nashville is by renting a car. Even though they have public transportation, the neighborhoods and attractions are too spread out.
🚶♀️Where to stay in Nashville without a car?
The best place to stay without a car is Downtown Nashville since you will be where all the action is with access to public transport to easily take you everywhere else you may want to go.
Conclusion
I hope that my guide on where to stay in Nashville with the best hotels and rentals will help you make up your mind and save you time and money when booking your stay.
As you have probably noticed, each neighborhood has its unique vibe, culture, and attractions, but all of them are just a quick ride away.
Whether you are exploring the city with family or are heading on a business trip, I covered all the significant areas. You’ll find luxury boutique hotels, budget accommodations, spacious family rooms, and romantic nests.
To make things easier, these are my top picks on where to stay in Nashville:
- Loews Vanderbilt Hotel – if you are looking to stay in Nashville near the West End, this is the place to go.
- Gaylord Opryland Resort – one of the best resorts to stay in Nashville! It is like a small city and you will have everything you need within the property.
I hope you will have a memorable experience and don’t forget to book your place in advance if you have a chance!
Have I missed anything? Please let me know your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below. Also, if you are still unsure about where to stay, drop me a line!
Happy travels!
Yulia
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