Nashville, with its rich history and vibrant music scene, continues to evolve as a destination that captures the heart of visitors year round. 

Whether you’re in Nashville for the live music, the incredible food, or just a relaxing getaway, this city has something for everyone. From its buzzing downtown streets to its hidden culinary gems, Nashville offers an unforgettable experience around every corner.

A Stay in the Heart of Downtown

Located at Fourth and Union Street, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Nashville Downtown puts you in prime walking distance of Lower Broadway’s excitement and some of the city’s best dining spots. The recent renovations to the hotel gave our room a spacious, fresh feel. The large bathroom added an extra touch of comfort, and we appreciated the modern, open lobby area, which doubled as a great space to get a bit of work done.

Culinary Delights Just Steps Away

Nashville is a food lover’s paradise, and the area around the hotel is no exception. Just a few blocks away, the newish Assembly Food Hall is a must-visit. Located above a retail space near Fifth and Broadway, this food hall is a playground for anyone looking for diverse culinary options. We dined at The Pharmacy, a beloved spot for burgers and tots, but there’s plenty to explore, including Asian cuisine, pizza, and even cookie dough. And, of course, Nashville’s famous hot chicken is always within reach.

For something a little more upscale, Church and Union – a popular spot also found in Charleston, South Carolina – offers a laid-back, yet refined, atmosphere. Just a short walk from the DoubleTree hotel, it quickly became one of our favorites in Nashville, thanks in part to our exceptional waiter. His recommendations, including the French onion appetizer, fried green tomatoes, and their Beast Loaf, were spot on!

Dining with a Side of Celebrity

One of the most buzzworthy dining experiences we had was at Justin Timberlake’s The Twelve Thirty Club. Located on Broadway near Fifth, this venue is a stylish mix of honky-tonk on the lower level and a live music lounge with an oyster bar and dining space upstairs. The food? Simply incredible. We started with the burrata appetizer before savoring the Bolognese pasta and beef short rib – each dish was more delicious than the last. While we didn’t spot Timberlake himself, the ambiance and bold flavors made it a memorable night.

The Heart of Country Music

No visit to Nashville is complete without soaking in the city’s musical heritage, and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is the ultimate place to do just that. Spanning three floors, the museum offers rotating exhibits, ensuring there’s always something new to discover. During our visit, we were treated to exhibits honoring Patty Loveless, Luke Combs, and The Western Edge, which highlighted the influence of 1970s Los Angeles on country music, including artists like The Byrds. It’s a fantastic way to appreciate the legacy of country music, and every trip reveals something new.

The Nashville Experience

Of course, no trip to Music City would be complete without a stop on Lower Broadway. Bar after bar offers live music throughout the day and night, making it easy to immerse yourself in the sounds of Nashville at any time.

From the comfort of the Downtown Nashville DoubleTree to the unforgettable cuisine and the endless music, Nashville continues to prove why it’s a top destination for travelers of all kinds.

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Cover photo courtesy Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp

Marika Flatt, Outstanding Austin Communicator 2021, is the Travel Editor of Texas Lifestyle Magazine. She began her travel writing career in 2002, and can be seen as a contributor on TV shows across Texas, such as Great Day Houston, San Antonio Living, Spectrum News, Good Morning Texas, KVUE, Daytime (FOX), and Studio 512! Follow Marika’s travels here.

Madi Hise is a Public Relations student at the University of Texas, minoring in business. She currently serves as the Editorial Intern for Texas Lifestyle Magazine and is also a Publicity Intern for PR by the Book.