Where To Stay in Nashville [5 BEST Neighborhoods!]

Nashville is a city with heart, soul and rhythm at its core. This metropolis earned itself the nickname of Music City for its vibrant music scene, and travelers of all ages and backgrounds flock here to soak up the unique atmosphere.

Nashville’s rise to fame has impacted hotel prices so it’s not the cheapest destination and can be a challenge to find budget accommodation.

That’s why we’ve put together this insider hotel guide for where to stay in Nashville to help you save money whilst making the most of all the city has to offer.

Written by our travel experts, we investigate Nashville’s districts to help you decide on the best neighborhood for your holidays, whilst making your dollars go a long way.

Whatever you’re looking to do in Nashville, you’ll be able to find a hotel that’s right for you.

So, here are our top picks for where to stay.

Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Nashville

Where to Stay in Nashville

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Nashville.

Best Airbnb in Nashville – Ricky’s Airbnb

This gorgeous music themed industrial loft is located in the heart of Midtown and only blocks away from Downtown. The loft itself comes with high ceilings along with access to a game room and fitness centre. Make a meal in the fully equipped kitchen before taking a dip in the pool, and take a bath in the beautifully designed bathroom. This is truly a fantastic place to stay in Nashville!

 

Best Budget Hotel in Nashville – Nashville Downtown Hostel

This hostel in the heart of Downtown features private rooms as well as backpacker-friendly dorms and there is a shared kitchen for those who wish to cook. As a hostel, it’s great for travelers who want to socialise. The hostel also provides comfortable family studios at a great rate!

 

Best Mid-Range Hotel in Nashville – JW Marriott Nashville

This 4 star art deco hotel offers complimentary Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, an express check-in and check-out feature and an onsite gift shop. The rooms have all you need to enjoy your stay and the staff are exceptional. As a bonus, you’re surrounded by attractions and restaurants!

 

Not yet booked? Take a look at our favorite hotels in Nashville!

Best Luxury Hotel in Nashville – The Hermitage Hotel

Conveniently positioned, this luxury hotel offers easy access to Nashville’s best hot spots. There is a spa, gym and massage parlour onsite, as well as free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour reception and babysitting services. The 122 traditional rooms are filled with all the essentials to ensure a comfortable stay.

 

Nashville Neighborhood Guide

Nashville is the capital and largest city in the state of Tennessee. It’s famed for its country music scene, hence the nickname of Music City. Nashville is now one of the most popular vacation destinations in the United States for both Americans and international holidaymakers.

Nashville covers an area of 1,362 square kilometres and is divided into more than 20 neighbourhoods, with a lot of diversity to differentiate them. The beauty of many of the neighborhoods is that they are all so close to each other, yet each of them offers a unique perspective on the Nashville way of life. 

Downtown Nashville marks the centre of the city and is where you’ll find some of the city’s most famous sightseeing attractions and historic landmarks. A brief jaunt south from there and you’ll arrive in SoBro. This trendy neighborhood is home to lively bars, yummy restaurants and stellar tourist attractions. To top it off, you can generally find a hotel bargain.

If you’re a night owl and love to party, stay in Midtown where you’ll find late-night bars and all sorts of entertainment thanks to the neighborhood’s thriving student population. The Gulch is hands down the coolest part of the city, famed for its cafes, bars and little boutiques. If you want to be out of the city and close to some picturesque views, check out Green Hills. We think this is an awesome spot for families as it’s a bit quieter but easy to get into the central city.

Short on time? One of these tours in Nashville is the best way to see the most!

Nashville’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in:

Let’s take a thorough look at the top 5 neighbourhoods to stay in Nashville. Each is a little different to the last so use our guide to find out which is right for you!

Neighborhood #1 - Downtown

(Where to stay in Nashville first time)

Downtown is the very heart of Tennessee’s capital, which is broken down into eight smaller areas, each with their own different character. In Downtown, you’ll find a hub of entertainment, eateries, arts and cultural institutions and historic landmarks.

But what really takes over Downtown is music. There are museums dedicated to music. You’ll stumble across a live music venue on every corner, spot grand concert halls and walk down streets lined with honkytonks playing music all day, every day. You’ll even find karaoke bars if you fancy singing along!

In Downtown, you can take your pick from swanky hotels, excellent restaurants and savour beautiful views of the Cumberland River.

There’s so much to see and do in Downtown, which is why we recommend this area to Nashville first-timers and those with a shorter stay in the city. You can walk anywhere in Downtown, no car needed. 

Things to do in Downtown:

• Explore the state’s diverse history at the Tennessee State Museum. It’s free!
• Pick up fresh produce, local food and crafts at the daily Nashville Farmers’ Market
• Pay homage to musicians at the Musician’s Hall of Fame and Museum
• Stroll through the sprawling Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park
• Wander along the Cumberland in the Riverfront Park at sunset
• Go bar hopping along Printer’s Alley
• Watch a live music performance at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge
• Belt out your favorite song at Ms. Kelli’s Karaoke Bar
• Spend a night at Honky Tonk Central, one of the biggest live music venues in Nashville!

Where to Stay in Downtown

Best Airbnb in Downtown – Fiona’s Airbnb

This gorgeous one-bedroom apartment exudes the spirit of Nashville. Guitars adorn its interiors, and there’s an incredibly light and peaceful vibe to it. You’ll also have access to the on-site amenities such as the resort-style pool, climbing gym and more. The apartment is impeccably clean and just steps away from Music City Center.

 

Best Budget Hotel in Downtown – The Capitol Hotel Downtown an Ascend Hotel Collection Member

In a prime location for sightseers, this hotel gives you a lot of bang for your buck! There’s Wi-Fi, a tour desk, 24-hour reception, an onsite fitness centre and a daily breakfast is included in the rate. All rooms are equipped with air-con for balmy Nashville days.

 

Let’s make this simple. These are the best hotels in Downtown Nashville!

Best Mid-Range Hotel in Downtown – Holston House Nashville – in the Unbound Collection by Hyatt

Right in the middle of Downtown, this 4 star boutique hotel has a rooftop sun deck, swimming pool and bar so you can cool down in style after a hot day’s sightseeing. Their rooms and suites channel a rugged modernism with art deco styling. Well located for exploring Downtown’s attractions.

 

Best Luxury Hotel in Downtown – Noelle Nashville a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Designed with a curator’s touch, this experimental hotel offers historic luxury within steps of Printer’s Alley. Sink into your comfortable bed in your elegantly designed room or wind down with a drink in the onsite bar. The hotel has all the amenities you need from a top-rate hotel.

 

Planning a trip? See our list of the best things to see in Nashville!

Neighborhood #2 - SoBro

(Where to stay in Nashville on a budget)

Literally meaning “south of Broadway” this Downtown neighborhood is home to the hockey arena, the symphony and the Music City Convention Center.

Sobro is bordered to the north by the core of downtown Nashville, to the west by the Gulch, to the south by I-40, and to the east by the Cumberland River as well as parts of the Rolling Mill Hill and Rutledge Hill Neighborhoods. Sobro is made up of eight city blocks and is one of Nashville’s most rapidly changing neighborhoods.

Like its northern neighbor, SoBro an attractive area for tourists as it’s very walkable and there’s lots to do, but SoBro has a more off-beat vibe than Downtown.

In keeping with most of central Nashville, you will be spoilt for choice with grand hotels, but you can also snag some decent deals here if you are traveling on a budget.

Things to do in SoBro:

• Visit the Johnny Cash Museum and learn about one of the world’s greatest musicians
• Expand your waistline a notch at the best chocolate shop in town, the Goo Goo Shop & Dessert Bar
• Peruse contemporary the art collection as you sip a specialty cocktail at Bar Sovereign
• Walk the star-studded pavement at the Music City Walk of Fame Park
• Eat the best hot dogs in town at Hot Diggity Dogs
• Catch a show on the banks of the Cumberland River at the city’s favorite outdoor music theater, Ascend Amphitheatre
• Watch the Nashville Predators play a hockey game at Bridgestone Arena

Tennessee is big! You’ll have to prioritize which places to visit when you go!

Where to Stay in SoBro

Best Airbnb in SoBro – Scot’s Airbnb

This newly furnished apartment has a Scandinavian flair and is the perfect charming and cosy place to call home. Enjoy the modern and sleek interior that’s in close proximity to downtown. You’ll also have access to the gym, as well as the lounge and courtyard area. After a day exploring, relax in your light and airy bedroom complete with a brand new queen-sized bed.

 

Best Budget Hotel in SoBro – SoBro Guest House

The SoBro Guest House comprises of 24 apartments, each furnished with comfortable, clean and spacious living quarters at a budget-friendly rate. A kitchen is included, making this an ideal choice for travelers who wish to cook. The apartments have Wi-Fi and are centrally located, you can walk everywhere!

 

Have some time in Nashville? These are our favorite day trips from Nashville!

Best Mid-Range Hotel in SoBro – Hampton Inn & Suites Nashville Downtown

Hampton Inn & Suites Nashville Downtown have 154 spacious rooms offering all the essentials to ensure an enjoyable stay, including coffee and tea supplies in the room and a daily buffet breakfast. There’s a modest pool on site for guests. It’s also pet-friendly, for those bringing their pooch on vacation!

 

Best Luxury Hotel in SoBro – The Westin

The Westin offers easy access to Nashville’s popular hot spots including the Ryman Auditorium and Bridgestone Arena. It provides 4-star accommodation at low-cost with decadently designed and air-conditioned rooms with tea and coffee making supplies. There is also 24-hour reception, an indoor pool and Wi-Fi.

 

Insider tip – Use our expert guide to see when the best time to visit Nashville is!

Neighborhood #3 - Midtown

(Best area to stay in Nashville for nightlife)

West of the city, the neighborhood of Midtown is sandwiched between Downtown, Music Row, West End and Hillsboro Village. Home to the prestigious Vanderbilt University, the student population gives the district a real buzz by day and night.

Midtown springs to life after hours – it’s a hub for lively and genuinely fun nightlife. Much of this takes place along Church Street, which draws the crowds in with gay bars, drag shows, live music bars and variety acts.

By day, Midtown boasts unique landmarks, fascinating history and lush parks to explore. There are plenty of laid-back cafes and restaurants to recoup your energy in. Midtown cafes tend to stay open late, fuelling the students’ caffeine needs. Centennial Park is a huge green space to the west of Midtown, which will give you your greenery fix.

You can travel by bus or hire a bicycle to get into Downtown from Midtown if you wish to venire further.

Things to do in Midtown:

• For something other than country music, head to EXIT/IN
• Dance all night at Canvas Lounge
• Pack a picnic and go for a wander in Centennial Park
• Visit the Athenian Parthenon! Built in 1897, this full-scale replica is also an art gallery
• Explore the grounds of the Vanderbilt University
• Brush off the hangover with a smoothie at Jamba Juice on Elliston Place
• Go to the legendary Songwriter Night at Cafe Coco, the funky coffee shop which serves beer and live music
• Eat spicy fried chicken at Hattie B’s

Where to Stay in Midtown

Best Airbnb in Midtown – Alex’s Airbnb

Located in the heart of Nashville’s West End, this apartment is just a short distance away from the infamous Broadway. This one-bedroom apartment has a spacious kitchen along with a comfortable living room area. The bedroom has a memory foam mattress that’s sure to give you a fantastic night’s sleep. You’ll also have access to all the facilities in the apartment from the gym to the pool and BBQ area.

 

Best Budget Hotel in Midtown – Holiday Inn Nashville-Vanderbilt – Downtown

The Holiday Inn is in a prime location right next to the Centennial Park, yet convenient walking distance from the nightlife hub of Church Street. The hotel has a pool and gym and the rooms feature a microwave. The staff are very hospitable and the room rates are very affordable.

 

Best Mid-Range Hotel in Midtown – Hampton Inn & Suites Nashville-Vanderbilt-Elliston Place

These modern rooms each offer a flat-screen TV, a refrigerator and a private bathroom. Hotel facilities include a large outdoor pool, gym, Wi-Fi and a BBQ area made available for guests to use. Conveniently located close to Church Street and the many eateries and attractions to discover in Midtown.

 

Best Luxury Hotel in Midtown – Loews Vanderbilt Hotel

Loews Vanderbilt Hotel provides luxurious 4-star accommodation in Nashville which include 24-hour room service, express check-in and check-out and a beauty centre where you can treat yourself to a massage. The hotel has a children’s nursery and babysitting services for those party animals traveling with children!

 

Neighborhood #4 - The Gulch

(Coolest place to stay in Nashville)

Welcome to the Gulch, home to a dynamic and lively community that has undergone a huge amount of regeneration in recent years.  

Named for the physical ‘gulch’ that houses the railroad tracks that ran through this area, the Gulch is Nashville’s most modern neighborhood when it comes to construction and architecture. Clusters of empty, abandoned warehouses are being revamped, gleaming high-rise condos and hipster lofts are being developed. The Gulch is a LEED Certified community.

The Gulch is widely known for being the coolest place in town.

The Gulch is walking distance to downtown, SoBro and Midtown, but has plenty of its own perks and attractions, primarily shopping, eating and drinking based! It’s also where you’ll find the Frist Art Museum, you won’t miss the magnificent art deco facade of the building. A free bus operates here which takes you to most of the major tourist attractions and it’s a popular place to hire a bicycle.

Things to do in the Gulch:

• Visit the iconic “What Lifts You” wings mural and explore other street art
• Have coffee and cake at Milk and Honey
• Eat classic pub grub with a pint at The Pub Nashville whilst live music entertains you
• Shop for souvenirs, clothing and even guitars at Two Old Hippies  
• Peruse the ever-changing art at the Frist Art Museum
• Listen to bluegrass at cinder block building, The Station Inn, which has been in business for over 40 years
• Appreciate Nashville’s skyline at the rooftop lounge, Up, with a cocktail

Where to Stay in the Gulch

Best Airbnb in the Gulch – The Guild’s Airbnb

Just steps away from the Angel Wings mural, this modern apartment puts you in close proximity to plenty of Nashville’s local eateries and shops. This one-bedroom apartment is furnished with a comfortable queen-sized bed, fully-equipped kitchen and smart TV. You also have access to the rooftop lounge and fitness centre.

 

Best Budget Hotel in the Gulch – Stay Alfred at The James

The perfect home away from home, Stay Alfred at The James have 31 well-appointed apartments decked out with all the essentials for your stay in the Gulch, even free toiletries! The building has a rooftop deck with BBQ area and a fitness center, and you have your own kitchenette.

 

Best Mid-Range Hotel in the Gulch – The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Nashville Downtown / The Gulch

With complimentary breakfast and an onsite restaurant / bar, you won’t go hungry at this hotel! The hotel also features 24-hour reception, multilingual staff, a laundry service and express check-in/check-out. You have a refrigerator and microwave in your room, and the eateries of the Gulch moments away.

 

Best Luxury Hotel in the Gulch – Thompson Nashville

The top rooms at this luxury hotel feature floor to ceiling windows and unbeatable views across the city, as well as bathtubs and state-of-the-art rain showers, fluffy bathrobes thrown in! They also have an indoor-outdoor rooftop bar and restaurant with incredible views of downtown Nashville’s skyline.

 

Neighborhood #5 - Green Hills

(Best neighborhood in Nashville for families)

Green Hills is a district south-west of Downtown Nashville, which sits in tandem with Belle Meade. It is an affluent suburb known for its upscale boutiques and unique restaurants and considered one of the most desirable areas to live in Nashville.

Green Hills is dominated by a huge shopping mall which houses over 100 stores and eateries. There are some wonderful hotels in this area, which welcome families.

You’ll still get your music fix in Green Hills, as hidden within an inconspicuous strip mall is the famed Bluebird Cafe, home to both established and up-and-coming songwriters. Overall you will find Green Hills to be a quieter neighborhood for your vacation so you won’t need to worry about young children having their sleep disturbed by the booming honky-tonks.

To get Downtown in 30 minutes, take express Bus 7 or Bus 2 which makes a couple of stops en route.

Things to do in Green Hills:

• Visit the Greek revival-style mansion and grounds at the Belle Meade plantation
• Explore the 55 acres of land at the Cheekwood Estate and Gardens
• Check out experienced and up and coming singer-songwriters at the iconic Bluebird Cafe. Children are welcome!
• Eat all types of American cuisine at the Green Hills Grille 
• Shop until you drop at the mid-South’s premier shopping destination, The Mall at Green Hills
• Support the independent book trade and go book shopping at Parnassus Book
• Have happy hour drinks among the plants at the Greenhouse Bar

Where to Stay in Green Hills

Best Airbnb in Green Hills – Tyler’s Airbnb

This two-bedroom house can accommodate up to six individuals and is one of the best places to stay in Nashville. You’ve got access to a quiet yard along with a comfortable living room area. The kitchen is spacious and has everything you need to whip up a delicious meal. Just a short walk will take you to Green Hills Park Playground and Cheekwood Botanical Gardens is just nearby.

 

Best Budget Hotel in Green Hills – Hampton Inn & Suites Nashville-Green Hills

A simple yet comfortable, cost-effective options which includes the perks of an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre. There’s also a 24-hour business centre and a 24-hour reception, and breakfast is included. Located a five-minute walk from The Mall, and easy walking distance to restaurants.

 

Best Mid-Range Hotel in Green Hills – Residence Inn by Marriott Nashville Green Hills

A clean, comfortable, well equipped and tastefully styled hotel. Their studios and suites will ensure the whole family gets a good nights’ sleep between sightseeing days out. The rooms come with a fully equipped kitchen, complimentary Wi-Fi and there’s a pool to keep the kids entertained on hot days.

 

Best Luxury Hotel in Green Hills – Hilton Nashville Green Hills

The Hilton features a modern design, onsite Härth restaurant, Skybar, rooftop pool, fitness center and luxurious family rooms. They have special offers for families and will provide cribs for babies. Within walking distance of all the nearby attractions and excellent dining facilities onsite. The bar has live music on weekend evenings.

 

Final thoughts on where to stay in Nashville

Nashville is a city that lives and breathes music, yet there is so much more to discover in this thriving metropolis.

With fascinating museums, lush parks, striking monuments, incredible eateries and world-class universities — the capital of Tennessee sure has something to suit everyone’s taste. Not to mention its broad collection of hotels! Nashville is the ideal destination for a rejuvenating and exciting vacation, blending relaxing sightseeing days with a buzzing nightlife.

Cool, contemporary district the Gulch is our top choice for where to stay in Nashville. Here you can appreciate everything Nashville has to offer, and explore mainly on foot due to it’s central location.

Our top pick for the best hotel in Nashville is the Thompson Nashville. In the heart of the Gulch, this 4-star hotel is designed with an artistic flair and offers jaw-dropping views. You seriously won’t find a better place to stay in Nashville!

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