In a city filled with unique taste, sounds and experiences, Nashville, Tennessee is definitely a must-see destination that you will want to experience! Known as the “Country Music Capital of the World,” Nashville is renowned for its music and honky-tonks. Although music influences nearly every aspect of this cosmopolitan city, Nashville has a rich history and a diverse background. From clubs and bars to world fame venues such as The Ryman Auditorium and The Grand Ole Opry, you can catch a show headlined by a country legend or discover the next up-and-coming country star right in Nashville. If you are planning a trip to the Music City soon, the following will enlighten you on all things Nashville. So, join us as we highlight this city and its colorful history.

About Nashville:

Founded on Christmas Eve in 1779, Nashville has been known as a dynamic city that has been fundamental, not only to the development of music, but to the over all success of Tennessee. In the 1800s Nashville grew to become a national center for music publishing and was also known as the “Songwriting Capital of the World”. From writing and recording to performing live, musicians did not just play music in Nashville, they created it.

It is a well-known fact that the first around-the-world tour by a musical act hailing from Nashville was by the Fisk Jubilee Singers from Nashville’s Fisk University. A private, historically black university in Nashville, Fisk was founded in 1866, six months after the Civil War ended and the Fisk Jubilee Singers efforts helped fund the school’s mission of educating people who were formerly enslaved after the Civil War. This, in return played a major part of getting Nashville to be known worldwide, even playing for the Queen of England. Through their efforts, Nashville’s music scene picked up and the rest is virtually history.

Relax in Nashville:

Although Nashville will keep you busy when it comes to hands-on experiences, the city has seen a surge in some of the most posh and chic hotels due to recent development in the most happening parts of town.

For those who like to live vicariously, The Moxy Nashville Vanderbilt is for you! This brand-new property located just minutes from downtown and across the street from Vanderbilt University puts you in one of the trendiest areas in town.

Located in close proximity to shopping and dining in Hillsboro Village, you never have to wander far for good food or a fun bar. Upon check-in, you will notice immediately that The Moxy Nashville Vanderbilt (a Marriott Bonvoy brand) is an edgy hotel with a modern twist. Besides being extremely friendly, the staff welcomes all guest with their signature Moxy Cocktail and goes above and beyond to accommodate guest needs and requests. The rooms mimic those of hotels in Europe, yet everything is uniquely designed, maximizing the space and utility. The Moxy Nashville Vanderbilt also wants their guest to feel very safe at all times in their COVID-19 environment with sanitizing stations throughout the property, urging the usage of mask wearing and an overall cleanliness for guest satisfaction.

Photo By: Reginald Dominique

If you would like to treat yourself to a day of relaxation during your stay, conveniently adjacent to building is Chào Nail + Bar. This new facility is a wellness-inspired salon that is proudly committed to quality services and experience for all clients.

Relax and be pampered in the facilities uniquely engineered state-of-the-art spa which sets itself apart with their ventilation system as per International Mechanical Code. With the mission to provide innovative and health-conscious services, Chào Nail + Bar offers an eco-friendly atmosphere that delights the senses and brings joy to the body, mind, and spirit.

Photo By: Chào Nail + Bar

Now, if the ultimate luxury experience is a route you would like, the JW Marriott Nashville is the hotel for you! This Posh high-rise hotel offers all of the bells and whistles one would want when traveling to the music city. Dubbed as the “Music City’s first true luxury hotel” the JW Marriott Nashville is located in the heart of downtown, adjacent to Music City Center, just two blocks to Broadway and the Gulch.

With breathtaking skyline views from every guest room, your entire stay will be one to remember. The property delivers all of the top-notch amenities including a stunning and expansive rooftop pool deck with a pool bar and grill, full-service spa, and a 24-hour fitness center with the ever so popular Peloton bikes. The swanky hotel also includes a café, artisan bakery, artfully crafted cocktails lounges, and more. Similar to The Moxy Nashville Vanderbilt, the property is a Marriott Bonvoy brand and the JW Marriott Nashville has also implemented enhanced measures around cleanliness, sanitization and social distancing in an effort to ensure their colleagues and guests enjoy a healthy, safe and comfortable environment.

Photo By: JW Marriott

Happens in Nashville:

Finding yourself idle in Nashville is almost an impossible task. With so much do in this city, there is an exciting event to attend daily ranging from concerts to tours of historic sites. While visiting, the Nashville Parthenon is a must-see. The city of Nashville first undertook the construction of a full-scale replica of the Parthenon for the 1897 Tennessee Centennial and International Exposition. The exposition was constructed of brick, wood lath, plaster and represented the city reputation as the “Athens of the South.” The Parthenon itself housed the art exhibition, which consisted of 1,172 pieces from all over the world. The building was so popular, that the city left the temporary structure after the Expositions. When the building started to go into decay, the city decided to keep the structure and make it better than ever. Today, the structure is a complete replica of the original Greek temple, inside and out. It includes a 42’ tall replica statue of Athena, the Goddess of Wisdom and it is a sight to see - truly solidifying Nashville as the “Athens of the South”.

Photo By: Nashville Parthenon

You cannot do Nashville without a history lesson of music. One of the most iconic venues in the city is The Ryman. More than just a music venue, Ryman Auditorium is considered hallowed grounds. This is where bluegrass was born. Under the roof of Ryman Auditorium, many famous musicians congregated and did what they loved best – performed. From Bill Monroe, Hank Williams, The Carter Sister, Patsy Cline, Louis Armstrong, Little Richard, Aretha Franklin and countless of others, the Ryman Auditorium has hosted some of the biggest names in the industry. Also, the venue was the host of the Grand Ole Opry from June 5, 1943 where it stayed for the next 31 years. Once the Grand Ole Opry moved to its new location, the Ryman Auditorium has continued its tradition of welcoming all comers through music. This historic venue invites you to have a seat on its beautiful wooden pew and take it all in as you, too become a part of the Ryman Legacy.

Photo By: Reginald Dominique

Speaking of the Grand Ole Opry, we had the opportunity to see a live show at the iconic venue that is world renowned within its own rights. If you are a country music fan or not, the name itself so weight as one of the most sought out venues to perform at. The Grand Ole Opry, an American Icon and Nashville's number one attraction, is known for creating one-of-a-kind entertainment experiences for audiences of all ages. It is where unforgettable moments happen every week. With country music's newest stars, superstars, and legends live on stage, you never know what will happen next. See the show that made country music famous b- once within the doors, you will have the ultimate tourist moment. Whether it’s the backstage tour or a concert itself- your experience will be nothing shy of fabulous. If you ever find yourself in the Music City you must add this to your designated to-do list.

Photo By: Reginald Dominique

Last but not least if you would like a great history lesson on the city of Nashville one must wander to Belle Meade plantation. For over 200 years two words has described Belle Meade: History and Hospitality. Dating back to the mid 1800s, Belle Meade was one of the largest and wealthiest private estates in Nashville, raising the nation's finest thoroughbred race horses. To get your day started right at Belle Meade we would highly recommend stopping for some lunch first at the Belle Meade Meat and Three Restaurant located on site. Changing daily, the menu features a variety of hickory smoked meats, fresh cooked vegetables, biscuits, cornbread and house-made desserts that will entice your palate. Afterwards, enjoy a guided tour through the 1853 Greek Revival Mansion. Notably having hosted celebrities, presidents, generals, and a wealth of revered turfmen, Belle Meade became Nashville's first attraction and you will definitely see why as you tour throughout the mansion. Once completed, your admission also includes a complimentary wine tasting in the Belle Meade Winery, access to the picturesque grounds and outbuildings, outdoor game court, walking trail, and gift shops.

Photo By: Reginald Dominique

Nashville Eats:

One must experience the true Nashville hospitality with a good southern cooked Nashville meal. One of our favorite restaurants in Nashville is Adele’s! Upscale, chic; however, very inviting and laid-back, Adele’s features an open kitchen with a large fireplace grill, wood-burning oven, white quarter-sawn oak bar, and chef’s counter. The menu is amazing, with personal favorites like the kale salad, JW chicken, salsa verde and the pork ossobuco with polenta and gremolata. Adele’s seasonal, accessible comfort food is sourced from local farms and purveyors which is a nod to their freshness. If you are dining in or taking out, will not be disappointed. The next time you are in Nashville, you will be back for an encore meal at Adele's.

Photo By: Adele's Nashville

If you want something a little bit more laid-back, we suggest the mouthwatering Grilled Cheeserie. Created by husband-and-wife team Joseph Bogan and Crystal De Luna-Bogan, a Le Cordon Bleu trained chef, The Grilled Cheeserie is Nashville's favorite food truck turned brick & mortar restaurant and it’s a go-to restaurant when visiting Nashville. From the pimento grilled cheese sandwich to the tomato/pepper soup, everything is delicious. What goes best with anything off the menu? Of course, always order the tots and a chocolate shake!

Photo By: The Grilled Cheeserie

On a personal note:

I can literally go on and on about how amazing the city of Nashville is. From the locals to how functional the city is, easily navigable and simply just a fun and unique place to visit. Being the trendy city that it is, Nashville offers visitors plenty of happening things to do and see. If you are solo traveler or traveling as a family, there are an endless amount of museums, a plethora of places to shop and some of the coolest honky-tonks for listening to and dancing to classic country songs. Not to mention, the historical sites, art galleries, and prominent music venues which all contribute to Nashville’s overall charm. The diversity of the city goes beyond its residents’ cultural backgrounds and extends into the places that attract tourists from across the globe. So, if you planning on traveling and want a destination not too far that offers tons of exciting adventure, plan your next trip to www.VisitMusicCity.com and tell them Team Style Magazine sent you!