Cynthia Smoot
A Guide For Boot-Scootin’, Brunchin’, and Bar-Hoppin’ In Music City
In the words of Texas country legend George Strait, if you’re looking for a good time—even if it’s not for a long time—you’ll find it in Nashville, the songwriting capital of the world. Known as “Music City,” Nashville offers visitors vibrant nightlife, fascinating museums, chef-driven dining, and a nonstop live show lineup that creates an unforgettable getaway. Done right, every minute in Nashville is a perfect harmony of music, Southern cuisine, and down-home charm, according to our intrepid traveler Cynthia Smoot.
Here’s Where To Stay
Downtown Nashville is the city’s energetic heartbeat, where you’ll spend most of your time soaking up live music, shopping, and dining. Just a 10-minute walk away is The Gulch, a trendy neighborhood offering a quieter, more relaxed vibe, perfect for unwinding after a lively day.
Courtesy of Thompson Nashville
Here, you’ll find the 12-story Thompson Nashville, a luxury boutique hotel that impresses from the moment you walk through the doors. Inspired by its surroundings, the Thompson Nashville blends classic country soul with urban sophistication. Its 224 guest rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding barn doors, chic mid-century furnishings, and refreshing rainfall showers. You’ll enjoy luxurious 400-thread-count Sferra linens, hardwood floors, D.S. & Durga bath toiletries, plush robes, a Nespresso coffee maker, and more.
What To Eat When You’re There
On the 12th floor of the Thompson Nashville, you’ll find L.A. Jackson, an indoor-outdoor rooftop bar and restaurant offering incredible views of Downtown with a full-service dinner menu nightly, a late-night menu of small plates and shareables, and a weekend brunch that’s not to be missed.
For a true taste of down-home Southern cooking, head to Puckett’s at 500 Church Street in Downtown. From slow-smoked BBQ to Southern favorites like pimento cheese bites, fried chicken, and fruit cobblers, this spot offers comfort food alongside live music. Puckett’s has been recognized as one of Tennessee’s Top 5 Local Restaurants by Southern Living and one of the 10 Best Barbecue Restaurants in the U.S. by TravelAwaits.
The newly opened Turkey and the Wolf Icehouse in East Nashville at 800 Meridian Street is a must-visit. This is the second outpost of Mason Hereford’s famed New Orleans sandwich shop. With mostly outdoor seating, it’s a perfect stop on a pretty day. Expect a playful atmosphere where you might get a tiger or elephant figurine instead of a number to mark your table, your cocktail might come in a Star Wars tumbler, and your sandwich could be served on a collectible 1980s McDonald’s plate. PRO TIP: Order the Fried Bologna Sandwich, stacked with house-made potato chips, shredded iceberg lettuce, and a sweet-hot mustard that will have your taste buds dancing.
Marsh House, on the ground floor of the Thompson Nashville, is a standout for seafood lovers. Specializing in sustainable seafood and inventive Southern-infused cuisine, Marsh House features a raw bar, an extensive wine list with over 200 labels, and a renowned brunch served seven days a week. Condé Nast Traveler raves, “This is where the famous and fancy come to use brunch as a verb.” The weekend bottomless champagne brunch and weekday happy hour oyster specials are worth visiting.
What To Do & How To Do It
Nashville didn’t earn the nickname “Music City” by accident. Music is in Nashville’s DNA thanks to a deep-rooted musical history—from the early folk traditions to the rise of the Grand Ole Opry. From the moment the bars open to when the lights dim late at night, live music is everywhere. When ready for a cold beer and some good old boot-scootin’ tunes, head straight to Broadway Street, the epicenter of Nashville’s live music scene.
For a classic country experience, make your way to Robert’s Western World at 416 Broadway. Known as the home of traditional country music, this honky-tonk hasn’t changed much since the 70s—and that’s exactly its charm. Think wood-paneled walls, a Formica bar, and a whole lot of heart. Nashville Scene readers have consistently voted Robert’s the Best Honky Tonk in Nashville.
Just down the street, Tootsies Orchid Lounge at 422 Broadway has been a launching pad for legends like Patsy Cline, Kris Kristofferson, and Loretta Lynn. With three floors of live music (and a rooftop patio), Tootsies is packed every night of the week.
If you want a more contemporary experience, check out the new wave of celebrity-owned bars nearby. Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert, Jelly Roll, Kid Rock, and Bon Jovi staked their claim downtown. Ole Red at 300 Broadway, inspired by Blake Shelton’s hit “Ol’ Red,” is a standout. Here, the vibe is lively, the music is top-notch, and the rooftop brunch at The Lookout is a weekend favorite.
No trip to Nashville is complete without a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum at 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S. With a massive collection of memorabilia—including Elvis’ gold Cadillac—you can explore the rich history of country music through interactive exhibits, performances, and even songwriting sessions. The Museum’s gift shop is your one-stop shop for all the souvenirs you will need. Other must-visit places include the Grand Ole Opry and the historic Ryman Auditorium.
With its laid-back charm and celebrity residents like Taylor Swift, Justin Timberlake, Reese Witherspoon, Keith Urban, and Nicole Kidman, Nashville has a little sparkle around every corner. So keep your eyes open—you never know who you might spot! Whether you’re visiting for a celebration or a relaxing getaway, Nashville will leave you with memories sweeter than a cold glass of sweet tea.
