Staycation: A vacation in which you don’t leave town. There are times when I feel like I need a getaway, but I don’t have the time or money to travel someplace else. Taking a staycation can be the best solution.
I was born and raised in Nashville and often take the city for granted. If you’ve lived somewhere for a time, you often do. It may sound silly, but taking the time to give yourself a vacation in the place where you live can ground you and refresh you. Engaging with your home as a tourist allows you a new perspective, just as traveling to another place does.
If you find yourself restless and needing an escape, I’ve planned a whole weekend in town for you! You don’t need to do a thing but make the reservations and pack your bag. Here are my recommendations for the perfect Nashville staycation:
Photo: Award winning private cottage + Unique Urban Loft in 12South
Friday Afternoon
Leave work, grab your already-packed bag, and head to your weekend Airbnb.
Sure, you could stay in your home if you want to save money. But if you really need an escape, I would consider renting a place for the weekend—preferably away from your neighborhood. I’ve picked out some favorites for a relaxing and charming stay, steering clear of anything in the heart of downtown so that you can have some quiet! All of these allow you the whole space to yourself:
Cozy loft in 12 South – This one-bedroom loft is perfect if you’re seeking a comforting stay solo or with a partner.
Quaint cottage in Lockeland Springs – This award-winning home would be great for yourself and a couple of friends looking for charm and ease on the East side.
Bright, airy loft near 5 Points – Colorful and happy, this space suits a happy-go-lucky sort of weekend.
1920’s East Nashville Bungalow – With 5 beds, this gorgeous space is a dream if you’re gathering a larger group for the weekend.
Sunny Artist’s Cottage in Sylvan Park – This plant-filled, vibrant home would be a lovely getaway if you’re going solo or just have a few friends joining.
Photos: @thetreehousenashville + @rbqnashville
Friday Evening
After you get settled in your refuge for the weekend, head out for a fun, casual night. Stay close to home, as Friday nights can be tiring at the close of a long week.
If you’re staying on the East side, start out with a cocktail at Rosemary & Beauty Queen on Forrest Ave. Be on the lookout for an unmarked yellow house, and walk all the way to the back for drinks in the open backyard patio, covered by string lights.
Next, walk around the corner to 5 Points for dinner at Five Points Pizza, which has some of the best pizza in Nashville, according to me.
If you’re still feeling energized after dinner, grab a drink across the street at Treehouse. If the weather is nice, ensure you sit outside in the actual tree house.
Otherwise, curl up at your Airbnb with a favorite film and sleep as long as you can.
If you’re staying closer to 12 South and looking to treat yourself, head to the bar at Josephine for cocktails and appetizers. This should be enough to serve as dinner. Next, don’t skimp on Jeni’s next door.
After, head to the Belcourt Theatre for an evening show and a glass of wine before retiring to your Airbnb to sleep in.
Photos: @burgerup
Saturday
No matter where you are, treating yourself to brunch at Marche is an absolute must. If you wake up early, head there right at 9, as they don’t take reservations, and it gets quite crowded on weekends.
Afterwards, enjoy a slow morning preparing for the day at your home for the weekend. Sit outdoors with a cup of coffee, even read some of a good book. Don’t rush.
For lunch, the chopped kale salad at Burger Up (either the 12 South or East Nashville location) will have you feeling healthy and satisfied.
That afternoon, go shopping! Pangaea in Hillsboro Village is long beloved (I’ve been going there since I was little). Blush Boutique is one of my favorites for clothes and shoe shopping.
Of course, 12 South has much to offer with highlights Draper James and White’s Mercantile. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot Amelia’s Flower Truck while you’re there.
In East Nashville, visit Thrive on Fatherland for handmade goodies and High Garden for fresh afternoon tea.
When shopping feels tiresome, don’t hesitate to take an afternoon nap back at your Airbnb. Naps are good for you, and this staycation is about you getting what you need.
Photo: @rolfanddaughters
Saturday Evening
Get dressed up this evening and head to dinner at Rolf and Daughters in Germantown (one of my favorite restaurants in town). Ensure you’ve made a reservation. Try everything on the menu that you can. You won’t regret it.
After, head a few miles across town to Old Glory, an Edgehill Village hidden gem nestled behind Taco Mamacita (also a delicious place!) in an alleyway. Enjoy amazing cocktails in a dreamy, cozy space with a speakeasy feel.
Sleep.
Photo: @arringtonvineyards
Sunday
Depending on your location, wake up for coffee and crepes at Red Bicycle (Germantown and Woodbine) or tea and a bagel sandwich at Frothy Monkey (12 South, downtown, Franklin, The Nations).
Take a morning stroll in Percy Warner Park on the West side, central Centennial Park, or East Nashville’s Shelby Bottoms.
Prolong the weekend with an afternoon at Arrington Vineyards, a 25-45 minute drive, depending on where you are staying. This mini-getaway will be the perfect way to cap off your staycation. Have a wine tasting, listen to music, and decompress before you have to return to reality.
Fini! Your Nashville staycation is planned. Now all you have to do is pick a weekend and make it happen. I would love to hear how your staycation goes!
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It goes without saying that Nashville is growing and growing fast. It’s a beautiful thing to see the city blossoming before our eyes. There’s never a shortage of new places to shop and new restaurants to try. The beautiful thing about Nashville is even though we’re growing, some of the best spots from years ago are still thriving. I find myself trying new places, but always being drawn to the places I’ve always gone. If you’re feeling nostalgic or want to get a taste of old Nashville, here’s a list of some of my favorite Nashville spots that have been around for years, but haven’t lost their magic!
Hillsboro Village
Fido
Fido is in Hillsboro Village which, in my opinion, is the original hip area of Nashville. Fido has been in the same spot serving the same great coffee for as long as I can remember. Throughout the years, Fido has kept up with demand and morphed from a small corner coffee shop into a monster hangout that takes up nearly a whole block. Sit down and have a delicious meal with your cup of coffee or if your’e on the run stop by Fetch, their new quick stop sister store, that’s right next door. I’m perfectly happy with black coffee but I love seeing the creativity that goes into creating their selection of seasonal drinks. Fall and winter specials have recently been released and they’re all delicious! 
Photos: @fidonashville
Pangea
While you’re in the area pop on over to Pangea. My absolute favorite place to shop. It’s a cozy little store right across from Fido filled with colorful clothes, beautiful jewelry, and household goods. As you squeeze through the shelves you’ll find treasures from all over the world that will add a splash of color and excitement to your life. Don’t forget to go in the back next to the dressing rooms where you’ll find adorable gifts and clothes for little kiddos. Pangea is the best Christmas shopping spot because you’re sure to snag one of a kind gifts for everyone on your list. Just try to avoid keeping everything for yourself. 
Photos: @izzycooksinsta
McDougal's
In my opinion, McDougals it’s better than any Nashville Hot Chicken spot. Gasp! I know...I said it. McDougals has been making the best chicken tenders for years and years and even though they changed management recently, you can still feel the love in every bit. You can choose to get your tenders or wings tossed in an assortment of house-made sauces with a side of some of my favorite fries on earth! Other than the food, you’re sure to be charmed by the decor. Everything from t-shirts to license plates, to toys adorn the walls to the point where you can’t even see the wall itself! Even though you’re going to be full to bursting after your chicken basket, don’t forget your free ice cream! Tip- If you’re gluten-free they have a gluten-free menu posted by the registrar.
Photos: @izzycooksinsta + @mcodugalschickennashville
Sylvan Park/The Nations
Great Escape Record Store
Great escape used to be in Midtown a long long time ago (I can still remember...), but it’s now on the ever-changing Charlotte Ave. One of my favorite things to do is go eat dinner then spend some time flipping through records. As you flip through records you might get lucky enough to find a hidden treasure, but half the fun is laughing at the cheesy cover art. The old location used to be more quaint, but the new location has more room and is still packed with awesome finds. Whether you're into records, video games, or comic books, you’ll find something to occupy your time. Dinner and an hour at the record store sounds like the perfect date to me! 
Photos: @izzycooksinsta + @thegreatescapemadison
Coco’s Italian Market
Coco’s Italian Market is one of those spots that you would never think to go into unless someone told you to. Well, consider this someone tell you to! Right when you walk in you’ll know why it’s been around for so long. The smell of authentic Italian food will instantly make your mouth water and your tummy growl. Coco’s has been around for almost 50 years and for good reason. You won’t find Italian food like this anywhere else in Nashville. While you’re waiting for your table you can browse through their market for anything from imported olive oil to pasta makers or play bocce ball. One more plus, they have gluten free pasta that’s so good it’ll make you question if they accidentally brought you the real stuff!
Photos: @izzycooksinsta + @cocositalianmarket
Bobbies Dairy Dip
When you think about the classic burger and milkshake joint from back in the day, Bobbies is what you should envision. Since 1951 they’ve been serving perfectly delicious, greasy, not healthy at all, burgers with a side of fries and a milkshake. I’m all about a healthy lifestyle, but sometimes after a hot summer day at the pool, you just need a good old fashion burger!
Photos: @izzycooksinsta + @abbydemmer
West End
Samurai Sushi
This is another one of those hole in the wall spots that you might drive by every day and never notice. But, if you’re a true Nashvillian and someone asks you where they can get the best sushi in town, this should be your answer. Nestled in a tiny building on Elliston Pl, the environment and service are no frills, but what they lack in fanciness they make up for with the sushi. You can choose from many classic rolls or get wild and try some of their signature rolls such as the Choo Choo roll filled with salmon, crab, eel, avocado, cream cheese, and topped with nut and eel sauce and strawberries. Sounds like it couldn’t possibly be good, but you’re just going to have to trust me and try it for yourself.
Photos: @izzycooksinsta
Exit Inn
Exit Inn has been a Music City staple since 1971. Any given night you can hear music of all different genres from Reggae to Screamo. You’ll love this venue because it’s small and you’ll feel more connected with the musicians. Whether you're in the mood for a chill indie band or you want to party in a mosh pit, you’ll find what you’re looking for on their event calendar.
Photos: @izzycooksinsta + @exit_in
East Nashville
Wonders on Woodland
If you’re into antique shopping, this is absolutely the best curated shop in Nashville. The owners have a knack for picking out the best of the best and keeping new things coming through the door all the time. They have the perfect assortment of furniture, home decor, and jewelry from centuries past. My favorite finds include our beautiful mid-century modern credenza, a matching silver necklace and bracelet, and a psychedelic poster from the 60’s. The hours aren’t very consistent and they’re usually only open on the weekends. If you have a long drive to get there, be sure to call before you make the trip. Happy hunting! 
Photos: @izzycooksinsta
The Five Spot
This little bar and dance club will satiate anyone's nostalgic side. Their event calendar has everything from 80’s nights, to classic country shows, to (my personal favorite) swing dancing. Every Monday night at 8 pm you can go take advantage of their awesome Monday night drink specials while watching or participating in the exciting art of swing dancing. It doesn’t matter if you a swing dancing expert or if you have two left feet. You’ll have a blast!
Photos: @izzycooksinsta + @the5spotnashville
Dino’s
We can’t talk about old school Nashville without putting Dino’s on the list! Even though it’s had a bit of an overhaul in recent years, it’s Nashville's oldest surviving dive bar, and despite the facelift, it still feels the same. The food is delicious, the drinks are refreshing, and there’re board games. I mean, it really doesn’t get any better than that.
Photos: @dinosnashville
Isabel Storolis is a nurse by day and a passionate home cook and blogger by night. If you can’t find her in the kitchen she’s out and about exploring Nashville! Follow her love for creating healthy comfort foods and her Nashville adventures on Instagram @izzycooksinsta or visit izzycooks.com.
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By: Heather Brown
Nashville sets the stage for not only talented singer/songwriters, but also one of the most successful shows on CMT. While performers are featured on platforms varying from bars to arenas daily in Music City, Nashville itself serves as the most integral character in the Nashville series. The cast of Nashville utilizes spots around town as the backdrop to family secrets, country music performances, and artist rivalries. From coffee shops to venues, check out the locales used in the show so you can take on Nashville like a superstar.
Venues
Rayna and Juliette meet in Season 1 backstage at the Grand Ole Opry. As the show that made country music famous, it is only fitting that the reigning Queen of Country and the rising Country/Pop Princess cross paths at this historical venue. You can schedule tours behind the scenes of the Grand Ole Opry and even snag a picture on the famous stage.
The Bluebird Café is a fundamental setting at the beginning of the series. Known as a critically acclaimed listening room, this intimate yet revered café is where Gunnar and Scarlett worked before getting recognition. All of the characters of the show have performed at Bluebird throughout the series, nodding to its reputation as being the place where legends play. Most famous for its open mic nights, check out the Bluebird Café's' calendar to attend a songwriters night for yourself.
Photo: @nashvilleabc
If you're going to mention The Grand Ole Opry, it's only fitting to feature the Ryman as well. Rayna and Juliette perform together at the Mother Church of Country Music. The chance to perform at this venue is often regarded as the pinnacle of an artist's career, and the cast of Nashville have the same regard for the National Historic Landmark. Check out the Ryman website for behind the scenes tours.
Bars on Broadway
In Nashville, bars double as music forums. One stroll down Broadway will elicit sounds of dozens of performances any day of the week. The show spotlights many honky tonks in downtown Nashville, using the bars as stages for characters to perform in true Nashville fashion. The Wildhorse Saloon, Crazy Town, Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, Rippy's Bar & Grille, and Tequila Cowboy have all been filmed for the show. You can catch the lights of lower Broadway illuminating scenes throughout the series. In addition to watching a show on Honky Tonk Highway, you can buy a pair of authentic cowboy boots, savor a Goo Goo Cluster, and admire the Cumberland River.
Photo: @nashvilleabc
Restaurants & Coffee Shops
Everyone recognizes Nashville's reputation as a town that lives and breathes music, but Tennessee's capital also has delicious cuisine and local coffee shops. Despite the ongoing drama, the characters of Nashville find time to visit these sites to catch up and grab a bite to eat. Tying together scenes of musical performances, you'll see the stars of the show frequent some Nashville hot spots.
Avery plays a show at Barista Parlor (the East Nashville location) in Season 5. Scenes of the automobile chic décor served as a hip backdrop to Avery's concert. He's also seen eating some delicious BP breakfast after serving up some tunes. Barista Parlor also has locations in the Gulch and Germantown.
Photo: @skybluecafe + @baristaparlor
The Sky Blue Café is an iconic breakfast spot in East Nashville. Juliette ate with her athlete beau at Sky Blue in Season 1 and Scarlett and Deacon grabbed some coffee here to sneak in some family time in Season 5. This intimate restaurant will remind you of your grandma's dining room and rival her cooking.
Maddie runs coffee errands to The Post East during her record label internship in Season 5, and it is where she meets Clayton as he performs on the intersection of Fatherland and 17th. The Post East is featured throughout the season as a meeting spot for Maddie and Juliette to discuss music while sipping their vanilla lattes. You can snack on gluten-free, vegan, and organic dishes in this East Nashville dig.
Photo: @theposteast
Scarlett and Gunnar dine with their publisher at Watermark in the Gulch. Named after a print shop, Watermark is an upscale modern restaurant with impressive skyline views. For those seeking a unique dining experience, Watermark is the perfect marriage of urban and contemporary.
In Season 5, Scarlett and Gunnar grace the stools of Elliston Place Soda Shop. The grocery store turned pharmacy turned soda shop gives an old school diner feel to the tune of a jukebox. This throwback spot is great for grabbing milkshakes and fries.
Attractions
When the cast members of Nashville aren't in performance mode, you'll catch them exploring Nashville attractions from Belle Meade to Hermitage. The show spotlights several locations around town that are worth a visit.
The show's first season featured a Nashville showstopper: the pedestrian bridge. Rayna and Deacon took walks along this picturesque promenade and gave viewers a glimpse of the incredible Nashville skyline. You can see everything from the iconic Batman building to the Titan Stadium. Maddie returned to it during Season 5 to have a serious heart to heart with Clayton. The bridge is ideal for an afternoon run or to capture the downtown scenery with a skyline photo-op.
In the first episode of Season 2, Juliette performs at the Parthenon in efforts to skyrocket her career and regain popularity. The Parthenon is the highlight of Centennial Park in West Nashville. Along with a statue of Athena, the Parthenon has an art museum. Check out an exhibit or visit for a day in the park. Centennial Park has sand volleyball courts, a lake, swings, model airplanes/trains, and trails to enjoy.
Photo: @parthenoninnashville + @nashville_parks
Music Row is the epicenter of music businesses in town, so naturally it is featured in the show Nashville. It's comprised of publishing companies, record label houses, and recording studios. Season 1 features many scenes in this part of town, as many of the characters spend time writing songs and vying for record deals. Gunnar and Scarlett work in several of the studios and Juliette shot a music video in front of the Musica Statue. Just across the round-a-bout, there are restaurants and bars scattered along Demonbreun worth exploring.
Although the plotline of Nashville is thick with family drama, backstabbing, and politics, Music City emerges as the true star of the series. From honky tonks to shows, there are so many reasons to visit Nashville. The CMT production proves that the city is so much more than just a setting, it's an adventure. Come for the music, stay for the experience.
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Hailing from the Old Dominion, I've easily adapted my "Virginia is for Lovers" slogan to the "Nashville is for Music Lovers" lifestyle. After moving to Music City from Oklahoma City, I've explored middle Tennessee through the lens of artists' paintbrushes and urban canvasses. I've enjoyed eating, sipping, and dancing my way through Tennessee's capital, while pausing periodically to strike a pose throughout the journey.
Blog: https://muralmission.blogspot.com/
Instagram: @hab6m
Email: hab6m11@gmail.com
Eating healthy and supporting the local businesses and farmers that make your diet possible.
Living a healthy lifestyle isn’t just about eating healthy, exercising and rocking that new pair of black mesh leggings. It’s also about living a life of gratitude and thanksgiving. There are so many small businesses and farmers who work hard to bring us the great food we love. And Nashville is home to some of the best produce out there! Today I want to share some of my favorite little spots in Nashville that make delicious healthy food made by small businesses and farmers. Visit any of these spots to fill your tummy with good stuff and show some love to the people who bring you all the organic, vegan, gluten free, fair trade food you crave.
Photos: @franklinjuice
Franklin Juice Co.
230 Franklin Rd. STE 11W
Franklin, TN 37064
Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm | Sat: 8am-4pm
2301 12th Avenue South
Nashville, TN 37204
Everyday 7am-7pm
Bellevue YMCA
8101 TN-100
Nashville, TN 37221
Mon-Sat: 7am-2pm
Founded in 2013 in Franklin Tennessee, this juice company now has three locations and a juice truck! The founders believe in “being diligent stewards of the bodies we've been given.” And that is exactly what they do! Providing Nashville with juices and Acai bowls made with ingredients that taste good and are great for you, The Franklin Juice Co. is one thirst quenching spot you want to support!
Photo: @12southfrmsmkt
12 South Farmer’s Market
3000 Granny White Pike
Nashville, TN 37212
Tues: 3:30pm-6:30pm
Located in arguably the trendiest place in Nashville, the 12 South Farmers Market is one of the must visit spots during the summer and fall. This famers market sells the freshest produce and handmade products from local businesses all over Nashville. Get your berries and your lip balm in one place and then take a stroll through the beautiful Sevier Park. This is a great activity for you and your friends to enjoy the sun and support Nashville businesses at the same time. A win-win! And they allow dogs. So if your pup loves a good deal on carrots and woven handbags, bring em along.
photo: @greendoorgourmet
Green Door Gourmet
7007 River Road Pike, Nashville, TN 37209
Tues - Fri: 10am-6pm
Sat: 9am-4pm
Sun: 10am-4pm
Green Door Gourmet just might be Nashville’s best kept secret; although, it won’t be a secret for long. It’s a 350-acre farm, country store and event venue with tons of public events held throughout the year including cooking classes and festivals. They sell everything from jams and jellies to flowers and breads, making it easy support this local business. You can visit the farm or the store, or book your own event in their gorgeous farmhouse. They also have a wonderful blog with cooking videos and recipes to help you prepare your freshly bought produce.
photo: @theturniptruck
The Turnip Truck
701 Woodland Street
Nashville TN 37206
Mon-Sat: 7am-9pm
Sun: 8am-8pm
This is one of my personal favorite grocery stores. I love eating healthy and maintain a primarily all-natural and gluten-free diet. On top of that, I have an allergy to green peas, which is irrelevant to this article, but makes for an interesting fact. The Turnip Truck has an impressive array of delicious goodies and snacks that make eating right super easy. I often hop in the East Nashville store to grab a kombucha and whatever fun snack their friendly employees recommend. They also have a juice bar, hot bar with breakfast sandwiches, and salad bar, all with menus online. The Turnip Truck is one of the few grocers that sell locally grown produce and sustainable meat and seafood. I know when I shop here I am supporting the farmers and local businesses that make my diet easily maintainable.
photo: @sunflowernash
Sunflower Vegetarian Café
2834 Azalea Pl, Nashville TN 37204
Mon-Thurs: 11am-9 pm
Fri - Sat: 11am-10pm
I am not vegetarian, but that doesn’t mean I won’t get down and dirty with a veggie burger every now and then. The Sunflower Café is a true gem when it comes to making good vegan eats. Not only does this café make delicious vegan, vegetarian, dairy free or gluten free foods, they also use fresh locally grown produce in all their dishes. They are, as their website says “Vegetarian and vegan food done right!” They also have amazing daily specials and party platters so you can throw all the vegetarian and vegan parties your heart desires. Lettuce eat!
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Savannah Sturgeon is the founder of the young adult ministry The Good Fruit. Her ministry publishes weekly online devotionals with topics that address the struggles and celebrations of the young adult life. The Good Fruit also creates small group curriculum that is used by universities and churches around the country. Savannah is currently pursuing her Masters of Divinity in Los Angeles and will choose Waffle House coffee over gourmet coffee any day of the week.
Website: http://www.thegoodfruit.org/
Email: youaregoodfruit@gmail.com
Instagram: @savannahsturgeo
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