Looking for where to stay in Nashville? Wondering where to start? Read on! As the capital of Tennessee, Nashville is packed with attractions and history. However, the city is most famous for playing a massive role in music history. It has produced incredible artists, from old-school icons like Dolly Parton to modern stars like Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus. While mostly known for its country music scene, Nashville also has an electric nightlife – so wild that it has been given the nickname ‘Nashvegas’ in recent years.
So, where do you stay in such an action-packed city? This guide will show you where to stay in Nashville, exploring the best areas, hotels, and rentals.
The best areas to stay in Nashville
Before we dive into where to stay in Nashville, though, we’ll briefly introduce you to the most popular Nashville neighborhoods. These are the six best areas to stay in Nashville.
Downtown Nashville – Nightlife
Downtown Nashville is where to stay if you love nightlife and a central location for sightseeing. It is home to Lower Broadway, an entertainment district famous for live country music, and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Downtown’s mix of bars and attractions gives it that perfect balance for a short stay in Nashville.
Hillsboro Village – On a Budget
Hillsboro Village is right next to Vanderbilt University and Belmont University. It has a student atmosphere, with plenty of indie vintage shops and mid-week socializing. It’s most famous for 12 South – a half-mile stretch of shops and restaurants.
SoBro – Live Music and Sightseeing
SoBro (South of Broadway) is a flurry of museums, live music venues, and restaurants, all joined together in neon lights and hundreds of flashing signs. If you want somewhere fast-paced and trendy, SoBro is where to stay in Nashville. It is an exciting neighborhood that constantly has its foot on the pedal.
East Nashville – Local Vibe
East Nashville is as residential as you can get. You’ll find just a handful of accommodation and options and be surrounded by coffee shops and parks adored by locals alike. It is best for people who don’t mind traveling to sightsee Downtown Nashville. You can get a ten-minute taxi or a twenty-minute bus to the city center.
West End
The West End is tucked away at the edge of Midtown and often overlooked as an independent neighborhood. Don’t make this mistake though; it is peaceful with a residential vibe yet just a short walk from Midtown’s nightlife. It is best known for Centennial Park and has plenty of green space.
Music Valley – Family Travel
Music Valley might be the furthest neighborhood from Nashville CBD, but don’t get it twisted; Music Valley is a tourist neighborhood. This area is home to Grand Ole Opry House and is a hot spot for shopping and country music. Accommodation-wise, you are spoiled for choice and can even opt for a resort experience.
Where to Stay in Nashville by Neighborhood
Feeling nice and familiar with each neighborhood? Good. Now let’s take a closer look at each area – focusing on the best luxury hotels, mid-range bargains, and cheap hotels for each one. This is a complete guide on where to stay in Nashville.
1. Downtown Nashville
Downtown Nashville is the ideal neighborhood to be smack bang in the middle of everything. You’ll have bars and restaurants at every corner, plus be within walking distance of some of Nashville’s major attractions. You’ll waste no time on public transport or taxis and can instead experience the best of Nashville on foot. Downtown Nashville is exciting, fun, and convenient.
Ready to party? Lower Broadway is always waiting. Lower Broadway is the most popular strip in Nashville and comprises over 30 bars. Most of these bars are honky-tonks – country music bars that host free live music for guest entertainment. You can hop between each bar, listening to live performances as you go. Country music fans will be in heaven.
Of course, for a taste of music history instead, the Country Music Hall of Fame is a brilliant attraction in Nashville. The museum hosts exhibitions and has performance spaces – telling the story of country music and paying tribute to famous artists while paving the way for the future generation. The Johnny Cash Museum is just a block away. Visitors can pay respects to the icon and admire the pictures and extensive memorabilia collection. The Johnny Cash Museum is a must-visit for die-hard fans.
Finally, there is Ryman Auditorium. Ryman Auditorium is coined the ‘Mother Church of Country Music’. It is a National Historic Landmark because of its history of hosting country music performances. You can still catch performances. Alternatively, take a guided tour of the auditorium and learn more about its history.
Downtown Nashville is fantastic to explore and perfect for a short stay when you’ll want to maximize your time. You will be walking distance from the Bridgestone Arena, SoBro, and Nissan Stadium (the home ground of the Tennessee Titans). There are also classic attractions like Tennessee State Capitol to explore, which is excellent for those interested in politics. Between the vibrant night scene and the wealth of attractions, it is an ideal place to stay in Nashville.
Where should you stay in Downtown Nashville?
Let’s take a look at some downtown hotels. These are the best hotels to choose from, regardless of your budget.
Luxury: The Hermitage Hotel
The Hermitage Hotel is the epitome of inner-city luxury. The hotel is set in a historic 1910 beaux-arts building, bursting with elegant architecture and classic furnishings. The Hermitage Hotel has an on-site restaurant, business center, ballroom, spa, and fitness center. There’s also a library bar, perfect for an intellectual drink after a day of sightseeing. Booking.com / Expedia
Mid-range: Holston House Nashville
Holston House is a modern hotel set in a classic, redbrick high-rise. It has a stunning outdoor pool with unrivaled city views. There’s also a fitness center and an on-site bar. Guests will love the hotel’s luxe furnishings and tasteful interior decor. Between its good looks and all the amenities, Holston House is a fantastic mid-range option in the Downtown area. Booking.com / Expedia
Budget: Nashville Downtown Hostel
Nashville Downtown Hostel is the perfect budget-friendly accommodation choice in Downtown Nashville. Guests can pick from dormitory rooms to private suites. You’ll benefit from communal areas and many chances to meet new people. The hostel sits on the banks of the Cumberland River and is just a short walk from honky-tonks with some of the best bluegrass music in the US.
Nashville Downtown Hostel is temporarily closed for renovations but will open in early 2023. Keep your eyes peeled for updates. See reviews on TripAdvisor
VRBO: Stunning Downtown Nashville Loft
This Stunning Downtown Nashville Loft is a fantastic place to stay. It is located right in the heart of Nashville’s Downtown area. The loft is decorated in a distinct art deco and industrial style, with characteristic redbrick walls. This historic VRBO sleeps up to four people and even has a vintage typewriter for you to leave reviews in a guestbook.
2. Hillsboro Village
Hillsboro Village is located in southwest Nashville, just outside the city center. Hillsboro borders Vanderbilt University and Belmont University, giving the neighborhood a youthful and light-hearted atmosphere. The area is conveniently situated for you to quickly travel to Nashville’s best attractions. Yet, it is a cheaper, more student-style place to stay than Downtown Nashville. Trendy, budget-friendly, and sociable, Hillsboro Village is a great place to stay in Nashville.
Besides all the hip restaurants and bars, Hillsboro Village is excellent for shopping. 12 South is a half-mile stretch of restaurants and cafes lined by indie vintage shops. Since you will save money with cheaper accommodation and restaurant prices, why not splash out on a shopping spree? You can pick up some bargains and souvenirs to remember your stay by.
The neighborhood’s north end is also within walking distance of Music Row – the famous recording studios. You can take a self-guided walking tour to the music studios, which is a must for music fans. Music Row is one of the most iconic spots in Nashville.
Hillsboro Village is where to stay in Nashville if you want an indie, budget-friendly experience. It is somewhere to let your hair down without breaking the bank.
Where should you stay in Hillsboro Village?
Let’s look at the best hotels and VRBO properties in Hillsboro Village. These are the top recommendations.
Luxury: Hotel Fraye Nashville
Looking for luxury? Hotel Fraye Nashville is the one for you in Hillsboro. The striking hotel has a matte black exterior and a stunning outdoor pool. Booking.com / Expedia
You have access to a fitness center, terrace, and on-site bar. There’s even a ballroom with floor-to-ceiling windows. And, for extra ease, you can also make the most of the hotel’s concierge service.
Mid-range: Moxy Nashville Vanderbilt Area
Moxy Nashville Vanderbilt Area is a cool, trendy mid-range option in Hillsboro. It is located a stone’s throw from the universities. From its fitness center to its games room, Moxy is clearly no boring hotel. You can enjoy a fun-loving atmosphere – a perfect addition to its Hillsboro surroundings. Booking.com / Expedia
Budget: Extended Stay by America Premier
Extended Stay by America Premier is the most budget-friendly option in Hillsboro Village. It is located on the border with West End. The hotel features kitchens in each room – ideal for cutting costs on eating out. Guests can also make the most of a grab-and-go breakfast service every morning. Choose between a range of studio options and make the most of homely comforts and money savers. Booking.com / TripAdvisor
VRBO: Cozy Stone Cottage
This property is located on the outskirts of Hillsboro and is within walking distance of 12 South. Relatively new to VRBO, it is an exciting opportunity to enjoy residential accommodation in a sought-after area. The property sleeps up to six people and features a private deck, office space, and even locally sourced coffee beans for your morning brew.
3. SoBro
Originally part of Nashville’s Downtown area, SoBro is now a fully-fledged neighborhood of its own. The newly formed community is fast-paced and vibrant, best known for its neon lights and vibrant hospitality scene. SoBro is where to stay in Nashville if you want an upscale, cool area within walking distance of major tourist attractions.
You can quickly walk to Downtown Nashville’s Country Music Hall of Fame, and Music City Center is just minutes away from the heart of SoBro. SoBro is a launchpad on the outskirts of Nashville’s Downtown area, perfect for experiencing a different atmosphere yet still being next to all the best attractions. Head to live music venues like Mercy Lounge, walk into Downtown Nashville for a day of sightseeing, or sample some local cuisine at one of the surrounding neighborhood restaurants.
SoBro has a high-quality selection of hotels – most of which are luxury hotels. If you don’t mind splashing out on higher prices, SoBro is a fantastic place to stay in Nashville. It has some of the best hotels and trendy restaurants you could hope for, plus that swanky elegance that completes any city stay.
So, where should you stay in SoBro?
Prices might be higher in SoBro, but we’ve still found the best deals for each budget category. These are the absolute best places to stay in SoBro.
Luxury: JW Marriott Nashville
JW Marriott Nashville is where to stay in SoBro if you want to splash out. The hotel is unapologetically upscale, towering above the neighborhood with expansive views of Nashville. JW Marriott Nashville is a gorgeous addition to the luxury hotel chain. Booking.com / Expedia
Mid-range: Omni Nashville Hotel
Omni Nashville Hotel is one of the most luxurious mid-range properties in Nashville. You’ll find a rooftop swimming pool, tasteful interior decor, and five on-site restaurants. Booking.com / TripAdvisor
Omni Nashville Hotel has an elegant atmosphere and brilliant location adjacent to the Music City Center. It is also within easy walking distance of the Walk of Fame Park, Lower Broadway, and Nashville Public Library.
Budget: Hyatt House
Hyatt House is a beautiful budget option in SoBro, despite being slightly more expensive than other budget options in Nashville. The three-star property has an indoor pool and gym – so you won’t be sacrificing a lot for lower prices. Choose from a range of studios, rooms, and suites. Booking.com / Expedia
VRBO: Boutique Hotel Styled Penthouse
This property is a gorgeous penthouse set amid SoBro and all its activities. Guests receive full access to all building facilities, including a swimming pool, gym, and games room. The penthouse sleeps up to eight, and each bedroom comes with its own en-suite. This property is a truly luxurious choice for a girls’ or boys’ trip away.
4. East Nashville
So, East Nashville is the most residential place to stay in Nashville. Picture leafy suburb streets, friendly locally owned coffee shops, and spacious Eastland Park – a favorite amongst families on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Some people aren’t city lovers, and East Nashville is the perfect place to stay in Nashville if you don’t want to base yourself in an overly urban neighborhood. Laidback, friendly, and still within easy reach of the city center, East Nashville is both relaxing and convenient.
When you aren’t rejuvenating in coffee shops and parks, East Nashville also has a few attractions of its own. Red Arrow Gallery is a fantastic place to view works by emerging and local artists. Further down Gallatin Avenue, Kelsey Mountague Art Mural is where you’ll find colorful street art galore. East Nashville is a great spot to appreciate visual arts, not just music.
Of course, even the most laidback, introverted tourists want a bit of lively entertainment every now and then. If you want to let loose, Five Points is where to go. Five Points is kind of the unofficial downtown of East Nashville and is where all the hipster shops and trendy restaurants merge into a walkable center. You’ll spot a few national chains like Emmy Squared Pizza, but mostly there are independent spots perfect for adventurous foodies.
East Nashville is where to stay in Nashville if you want an authentic experience of the city and don’t want to be surrounded by crowds every day. It is a comfortable neighborhood, ideal for quickly traveling back for some peace and quiet after a day of sightseeing.
Where should you stay in East Nashville?
East Nashville requires a little outside-the-box thinking because of limited accommodation options since it is primarily residential. Without further ado, let’s look at the best accommodation options in East Nashville.
Luxury: The Howe House
The Russel is a modern boutique hotel located in a historic 115-year-old church. A great thing about staying here is that a portion of the profits goes to helping the homeless. The central location makes it only a 15-minute walk to top Nashville attractions such as the Johnny Cash Museum, Ryman Auditorium, and Tootsies Lounge Orchid on Broadway.
Like Sweet Treat, The Howe House is a rental option you can book on Booking.com. It is the perfect luxury choice, and the four-bedroom property features exposed beams and a classy interior. Enjoy the luxury of space with three bathrooms and a private patio area – The Howe House is perfect for large groups visiting Nashville. Booking.com
Mid-range: Sweet Treat
Urban Cowboy is an 8-bedroom boutique hotel that is popular with locals and tourists seeking an authentic experience. The old victorian house was completely renovated to create a funky modern feel. The Public House is a fun hangout and each room is uniquely designed.
Sweet Treat is a Booking.com rental option and the best choice if you want mid-range accommodation in East Nashville. You’ll have all the benefits of your own home, including cost-saving amenities like a kitchen and laundry facilities. Sweet Treat is an excellent option for a comfortable place to call your own. Booking.com
Budget: The Gallatin
The Gallatin is the best budget-friendly hotel option in East Nashville. Guests access free wi-fi, garden access, and communal facilities. It’s a bit farther afield and you may need to drive, but it gets high reviews on Booking.com.
VRBO: Suite on Tree-lined Street
This property is a beautiful rental option in East Nashville. It sits on a leafy suburban street, surrounded by local restaurants and many friendly dining options. Shelby Park is just minutes away, so you are well and truly surrounded by green space and relaxing residential streets. The suite sleeps two people and features its own kitchenette and dining space.
5. West End
Like SoBro, West End is often mistakenly overlooked as an independent neighborhood to choose from when staying in Nashville. West End is tucked between Midtown and Hillsboro, next to Nashville’s largest urban park, Centennial Park. It has a peaceful atmosphere, plenty of green space, and family restaurants. Yet walk just fifteen minutes down the road, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by action and nightlife. West End is where to stay in Nashville for the best of both worlds.
Centennial Park is 132 acres in size and features an iconic Parthenon – a full-scale replica of the Parthenon in Athens. You’ll also find a scenic walking trail, popular amongst local joggers and dog walkers. There’s even a huge lake, Lake Watauga. A morning or evening stroll in Centennial Park is a great way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. It is definitely West End’s biggest asset.
West End is one of the best neighborhoods if you want a quiet base but easy access to nightlife. The nearby universities give the surrounding neighborhoods a friendly, outgoing atmosphere, and you can easily walk a few blocks to join the crowds. Traveling to the city center from West End is also straightforward, and you can take a bus Downtown in just ten minutes or a taxi in five.
So, where should you stay in West End?
Now that we’ve established how great West End is let’s look at the best places to stay in the neighborhood.
Luxury: Nashville Marriott
Nashville Marriott is a dreamy luxury hotel option in the West end. Make the most of a free shuttle service to Downtown Nashville, plus an on-site bar with delicious craft cocktails. Guests also receive access to a fitness center, meeting rooms, and dry-cleaning service. Comfort and convenience rule supreme, a mantra that Nashville Marriott clearly channels. Booking.com / Expedia
Mid-range: Fairfield Inn & Suites
Fairfield Inn & Suites is a modern hotel full of comfortable amenities. Guests can access a large outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and even free bikes to explore the surrounding neighborhood. Fairfield Inn & Suites is a great mid-range option in West End. Booking.com / TripAdvisor
Budget: Element Nashville Vanderbilt West End
Element Nashville Vanderbilt is a fantastic budget-friendly option. The three-star property offers free bikes, wi-fi, and fitness center access. There is also a daily American or buffet breakfast – perfect for a low-cost start to the day. For a comfortable, high-quality place to stay in West End, Element is a great choice. Booking.com / Expedia
VRBO: Luxury Loft Units for up to 15 Guests
Visiting Nashville in a big group? This property offers a deal for three separate loft units under a single booking. Each unit has a granite topped kitchen, designer furnishings, and beautiful views over Nashville. Forget scrambling for family rooms; this is a great option.
6. Music Valley
Last but not least, we have Music Valley. Music Valley is where to stay in Nashville if you want a touristy base and don’t mind traveling into the city center. The neighborhood is like a self-contained tourist destination, with plenty of tourist attractions, outstanding entertainment, chain restaurants, and fabulous hotels. A hot spot just a fifteen-minute drive from the city center, Music Valley is a big name, and it’s clear to see why.
Music Valley is most famed for Grand Ole Opry. Grand Ole Opry is a sparkly, luxe venue that hosts live radio shows featuring new country music acts. You might be able to bag yourself a seat in the live audience. However, you can also take one of the daily tours, which gives you more of an informative experience of the venue.
Music Valley also has a Madame Tussauds. For a cheesy but classic tourist experience, you can visit Madame Tussauds, snapping pictures next to your favorite waxwork celebrities. You can spot a vast range of celebs – from Elvis Presley to Beyonce and Johnny Cash. Music Valley encapsulates that slightly tongue-in-cheek, loveably cheesy tourist scene.
Music Valley is where to stay in Nashville for a resort-like experience and self-contained tourist scene. The neighborhood is entertaining and varied, with a mixture of attractions, international cuisine, and a lively music scene for country music fans.
So, where should you stay in Music Valley?
Music Valley has plenty of boutique hotels and even a resort to its belt. These are our top recommendations for places to stay in the neighborhood.
Luxury: Gaylord Opryland Resort
Ready for a resort experience? Gaylord Opryland Resort is the best luxury place to stay in Music Valley and the best resort in Nashville. You’ll have everything, from a water park to fifteen different on-site restaurants and a retail store. Gaylord Opryland Resort is a fantastic place to experience Nashville in style. Booking.com / Expedia
Mid-range: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Nashville-Opryland
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Nashville-Opryland is comfortable and convenient, with a free shuttle to the International Airport and fresh, modern rooms. Guests enjoy a free daily buffet breakfast and 24-hour gym. There’s also a large indoor pool to use when you aren’t sightseeing. Booking.com / TripAdvisor
Budget: Quality Inn Opryland Area
Quality Inn Opryland Area is one of our best budget accommodations in this guide. The inn provides guests with an outdoor pool, continental breakfast, and even free coffee and newspapers.
Quality Inn is the best budget-friendly hotel in Music Valley for thoughtful comforts and a low price. Booking.com / Expedia
VRBO: Deluxe Villa at Wyndham Resort
This property is a deluxe two-bedroom villa just a mile from Grand Ole Opry. Guests have many luxuries, including a whirlpool spa tub and a kitchen with country-style decor. Of course, you also have access to all resort amenities. You can enjoy the swimming pool, on-site restaurant, and bar when you aren’t sightseeing.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Nashville is an experience of a lifetime. The live music and music history set it into a category of its own, and you’ll love the electric atmosphere. You’ll only improve this fantastic trip by choosing the area and accommodation best suited to you. Music lovers especially should prepare to be blown away, and Nashville is easily one of the best places to visit in the US.
We hope you’ve found your dream answer to where to stay in Nashville. Have a fantastic trip.
Plan Your Next US Vacation With These Resources
Belcourt Theatre photo courtesy of Wikimedia by EVula, CC BY 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons