The creative neighborhoods of Nashville

Nestled along the Cumberland River in the heart of Tennessee, Nashville serves as a magnet for musicians, artists, and creatives from diverse backgrounds.With its rich and historical roots in country music, Nashville, Tennessee is often referred to as the “Music City”. Aspiring country artists flock to Nashville for a shot at making it in the country music scene. However, with big names such as Keith Urban and Carrie Underwood associated with the city, it can be easy to think that country music is all that Nashville has to offer. Upon your first visit, you’ll quickly learn that’s not the case. 

Beyond its iconic honky-tonks and legendary country music venues on Lower Broadway, the city boasts an eclectic mix of neighborhoods, each contributing its unique flavor to the Nashville tapestry. From the historic architecture of Germantown to the bohemian spirit of East Nashville, the city offers a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Beyond the music, Nashville embraces a burgeoning culinary scene, vibrant arts community, and a welcoming atmosphere that has earned it a reputation as a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of authentic Southern hospitality in a city that pulsates with creativity and cultural significance. Below are some of Nashville’s most creative neighborhoods to explore upon your next visit. 

East Nashville

Known as the bohemian heartbeat of the city, East Nashville has garnered a distinct reputation. It serves as a sanctuary for musicians, artists, and writers enticed by its eclectic and relaxed ambiance. The streets are adorned with vibrant murals, independent boutiques, and offbeat coffee shops, creating a visually captivating environment. At the heart of it all, Five Points stands as a central meeting place, acting as a nucleus for local artists and musicians who frequently organize events and performances. The historic homes within the neighborhood have undergone transformation, repurposed into studios and galleries, contributing to the flourishing artistic community that defines East Nashville.

Germantown

Germantown, one of Nashville’s oldest neighborhoods, seamlessly blends history with creativity, with cobblestone streets and Victorian-era architecture providing a charming backdrop for artistic endeavors. The neighborhood has seen a resurgence of creative energy with the opening of art galleries, studios, and artisanal shops. The proximity to the Nashville Farmers’ Market adds an extra layer of inspiration, making Germantown a haven for artists seeking a balance between tradition and innovation. 

SoBro (South of Broadway)

SoBro, located just south of Broadway in downtown Nashville, is an urban arts oasis. Lively music aligned the streets, inviting visitors into the famed honky tonk dive bars. This district has experienced a revitalization, transforming former industrial spaces into galleries, studios, and theaters. The Frist Art Museum, housed in a repurposed post office, serves as an anchor to the neighborhood’s commitment to the arts. SoBro is not only a hotspot for visual arts but also a burgeoning center for performing arts, with theaters and music venues contributing to the area’s dynamic and contemporary creative scene. 

WeHo (Wedgewood-Houston)

Wedgewood-Houston, commonly known as WeHo, has morphed from an industrial neighborhood into a vibrant artistic canvas. Old warehouses and factories now play host to galleries and studios, creating a magnetic pull for a diverse array of creative minds. The monthly Art Crawl is a major draw, pulling in crowds eager to immerse themselves in the newest exhibits. Places like Fort Houston, designed for collaboration, cultivate a strong sense of community among artists. WeHo’s edgy and experimental atmosphere positions it as a hotspot for those daring to push the boundaries of traditional artistic expression. 

12 South

Renowned for its chic boutiques and lively ambiance, 12 South is a charming neighborhood pulsating with creative energy. Here, you’ll discover an eclectic blend of local boutiques, vintage stores, and artisanal shops, catering to the tastes of both residents and visitors. The streets are adorned with murals and public art installations, showcasing the neighborhood’s dedication to aesthetic allure. Featuring a harmonious mix of residential and commercial spaces, 12 South creates an inviting backdrop for creatives seeking the perfect blend of artistic inspiration and community engagement. 

Berry Hill

Nestled southeast of downtown, Berry Hill stands as a concealed haven for creatives in search of an intimate and collaborative environment. Recognized for its abundance of recording studios, this neighborhood holds a storied musical legacy. Within the converted bungalows and cottages, you’ll discover not only recording spaces but also art studios and small businesses. Despite its unassuming exterior, Berry Hill harbors a dynamic creative energy, making it a perfect enclave for artists seeking a tranquil yet lively atmosphere. 

For those looking to experience all that Nashville has to offer, centrally located accommodations are most ideal. Hyatt Centric Downtown Nashville and Four Seasons Hotel Nashville are among some of the highly rated high-rise hotels, offering sweeping landscaped views of the surrounding neighborhoods of The Music City. 

Lauren Harby

At the age of 16, Lauren’s wanderlust was ignited as she embarked on a trip to her father’s homeland of Jordan, earning her first passport stamp. The sound of the Boeing 747 engine, propelling her beyond the familiar confines of Orlando, Florida, left a lasting impression on her. She swiftly realized that life was not meant to be grounded but rather lived in constant pursuit of awe-inspiring beauty that renders one silent on the plane ride back home.

Since then, Lauren has made it her mission to explore as much of the world as possible, traveling solo with only a carry-on, and seeking out remote and rugged regions like the Himalayas in Nepal, as well as indulgent destinations such as the crystalline waters of Anguilla. For Lauren, luxury is the absence of worry, and while she’s not averse to budget travel in hostels, she believes that luxury travel can enhance the experience and provide a new perspective on the pursuit of carefree living.